For ONGOING events in the Katy area, scroll to the bottom of the page.

August 11-24
Star of Hope Backpack Drive
Bring your gently used backpacks to Sun & Ski Sports August 11-24, and help brighten the first day of school for homeless children at Star of Hope. Sun & Ski Sports will have a backpack drop off bin available at each of their five Houston area locations.In Katy, this location is at: Katy Mills Mall. Call 281-340-5000, ext. 145 for more info.

August 11 – 26
Registration for HCC College Katy Campus
1550 Foxlake Drive, Katy
College bound students can now enroll at the Houston Community College Katy Campus for the fall semester.On-campus registration starts on Monday, August 11, and classes begin Saturday, August 23.To search the Katy Campus class schedule, visit https://hccsaweb.hccs.edu:8080/servlets/iclientservlet/sagst/?cmd=start&
New HCC students will want to meet with a counseling staff member prior to registering for classes.Counseling is available Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. - 6:30 p.m. and Friday from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.The counseling office will also be open on two successive Saturdays, August 16 and August 23, from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. to accommodate students for fall registration. Visit HCC online at northwest.hccs.edu to learn more about the exciting opportunities in your area! For more information about registering with HCC, call 713-718-5757.

August 20
Town Pep Rally
Mayde Creek H.S.
Mayde Creek High School invites the community to their annual Town Pep Rally.Ram Fans should arrive in the competition gym by 6:30 p.m. if they don't want to miss the excitement.The band, cheerleaders, and drill team will entertain and inspire Ram Fans, and Coach Carter will introduce the 2008-2009 Varsity Athletes.Please remember to visit katyisd.org for the MCHS athletic schedule so you too can come out and support the RAMS!

August 21
Community Dance
6:30 – 8 p.m.
Carriage Inn
1400 Katy-Flewellen
Carriage Inn is hosting a community dance featuring the "Sinatra-like" sounds of Roland Steele. Admission is Free and Free Hors D'ouvres buffet. RSVP 281-392-2800.

August 21 – August 23
2008 Fall Company Auditions
Plan to join an elite group of thespians and have fun all season long. Mark your calendars today Thursday, August 21 from 5-8 p.m.; Friday, August 22 from 5-8 p.m.; Saturday, August 23 from 9-12 p.m. For additional info contact info@kvpac.org

August 22
Back-to-School Bash
Cinco Ranch Water Park
24126 Hamptonshire Lane
5 – 9 p.m.
Radio Disney is in Cinco Ranch once again kicking off this event.Radio Disney offers so much fun with games and prizes that you won’t want to miss a minute of being at the Bash!Thanks to the Cinco Ranch Property Owner’s Association and CincoLife, and their commitment to special events for the residents, we want you to be ready for an awesome time with Disney Radio Station Program KMIC AM 1590, including the Radio Disney personalities, D.J., music, prizes, giveaways, and much more!Pizza, drinks, and ice cream will be provided at no cost, while supplies last.All Cinco Ranch residents and their guests are invited to this fun-filled family event.For additional information, please contact the association office at 281/599-0408.Due to the limited parking at the Water Park, car pooling is encouraged and appreciated!

August 23
Texas Firefighters Gala – A Tribute to Heroes
Falcon Point Country Club
7p.m.
The Gary Tilton Firefighter Training Fund Presents Fire Safety: A Tribute to Heroes. There will be a formal Gala benefiting Texas Firefighters with a dinner and silent auction. The keynote speaker is Chief Dennis Rubin of the Washington DC Fire and EMS. Cost is $75.00 per person, $125.00 per couple, and $600.00 per table. Tickets are now available by calling 281-391-2787. Silent auction items are also being collected. Gary Tilton died in October of 2004 and he was very passionate about training firefighters. The goal of the fund is to provide money for training firefighters in Texas.

August 23
Housing Outreach Event
Katy Public Library Community Room
5414 Franz Rd.
2:30 – 4:00 p.m.
Congressman McCaul is hosting a home ownership promotion and foreclosure prevention event in Katy. The event will bring together government and private resources to offer information and guidance to first time home buyers, veterans, and current homeowners in today’s troubled housing market. Attendees include Housing and Urban Development, Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs, and the Texas Foreclosure Prevention Task Force.

August 23
Last Day of Youth Sports Registration
Katy Family YMCA
22807 Westheimer Pkwy.
Register for YMCA Fall Youth Sports! Offerings for ages 3-12 include Fall Soccer, NFL Flag Football, Fall Tennis, Fall Volleyball, Cheerleading, Jump Rope. Call the YMCA at 281-392-5055 for details and pricing.

August 23
Meng’s Martial Arts Grand Opening
1718 Fry Rd., #225
12 – 2 p.m.
Meng’s Martial Arts will open on Saturday, August 2nd. The Grand Opening will be on August 23rd. Free food and drinks will be provided. Demonstrations of the different forms of Martial Arts are at 12:00p.m., 1:00p.m. and 2:00p.m. Everyone is invited. Don’t forget to ask about our Sign Up Specials.

August 23
Pet Telethon
3 – 8 p.m.
Broadcast on CW39
The Houston SPCA encourages all animal lovers to watch the 14th Annual Pet Telethon broadcast locally on The CW39.The Pet Telethon is one of our most popular and favorite fundraising events of the year thanks to the generosity and selfless nature of supporters like you! The heartfelt donations we receive provide food, shelter, medicine and other resources for thousands of homeless or injured animals each year.
ALL cat, kitten, dog, puppy and rabbit adoptions will be underwritten on the day of telethon.

August 24
“A Sporty Evening” Guest Night Dinner
The Golf Club at Cinco Ranch
23030 Cinco Ranch Blvd.
5-7p.m.
Our speaker for the evening is Mel Ziegenbein, golf enthusiast and Vice President of Bluebell Creameries.He will talk to us about being successful!$16.00 inclusive per person.Bring your spouse, best friend, or significant other to our special evening event. For reservations please email KATYCWC@gmail.com or call Elizabeth at 281-395-9922. Please give the names of those attending.Please RSVP by 5 pm Wednesday, August 20^th.If unable to attend, please cancel by Thursday, August 21^st. Katy Christian Women’s Connection is a non-denominational, non-profit organization with no dues or fees. We usually meet every month for fun, food and fellowship.Visit our website at: www.KatyCWC.org.

August 25
Back-to-School Coffee and Volunteer Kick-Off
Seven Lakes High School
LGI Room
7:30 a.m.
The Seven Lakes High School PTSA is hosting a Back-to-School Coffee and Volunteer Kick-Off on the first day of school, Monday August 25 at 7:30 a.m. in the LGI room in the main campus. Whether you are new to SLHS or are a familiar face, we would love to have you! You may park in the front lot marked for visitors or volunteers, in the spaces marked Volunteer on the west side of the 9th grade parking lot, or in NON reserved spaces in front of the Gymnasium. We hope to see you there.

August 26
Katy Area Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours
Willow Fork Country Club
21055 Westheimer Pkwy.
5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Katy Magazine is pleased to host the upcoming Business After Hours.Join us in celebrating 5 years of success at our very own Fantasy Island!Win fantasy prize baskets, enjoy free food and drinks, and more.Wear something tropical and win a prize!

August 27
Organic Gardening with Melinda Sperl
Brookwood
1752 FM 1489, Brookshire
10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Seminar and lunch - $19.95 including tax & gratuity. Reservation and pre-payment required. RSVP by 8/18 at 281-375-2149.

August 27
Katy Music Teachers Association Meeting
10:15 a.m.
The Katy Music Teachers Association will hold the August meeting at KD Music& Arts, 20225 Katy Freeway in Katy. For information call President, Linda Bryan 281-395-8585 or Publicity, Mary Ann LaCour 281-579-8276.

August 28
Simply Cinco Adventures with The Herb Cottage
LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch
Simply Cinco
23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. at Grand Pkwy.
10:30 a.m. – Noon
Join The Herb Cottage’s Cindy Meredith for a free how-to class on growing, harvesting and cooking with herbs. Simply Cinco Adventures is a series of free classes and demonstrations hosted by Simply Cinco (the new-home finder center for the master-planned community of Cinco Ranch). For more information, call 281-395-2200.

August 30
Step into Scouting Event
LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch
4 - 8 p.m.
Both Girl and Boy Scouts will have exhibits and registration opportunities for youth and adults. Contact Kathy Denton, 713-292-0293, kdenton@sjgs.org for more information.

August 30th
Kid Escape Anti-Abduction Seminar
Meng’s Martial Arts
1718 Fry Rd. # 225.
1:30 - 2:30 p.m.
Presented by Meng’s Martial Arts. Taught to over 60,000 kids nationwide. Done in an informative way not to scare your child with very effective strategies to keep your kids from not being moved to the second location. Ages from 5-14. Cost $5.00.Register online at houston-martialarts.com under Anti-Abduction seminar for kids.

August 31
Texas Music at Cinco Ranch
Park at Lake Pointe
6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Join your friends and neighbors for an entertaining evening of Texas Music with Larry Joe Taylor!Singer, songwriter, producer…this Texan covers it all.LJT has performed with musicians such as Guy Clark, Ray Wylie Hubbard, Rusty Wier, and Pat Green, and has opened for Jerry Jeff Walker, Robert Earl Keene, and many others. If you want learn more or catch up with them before or after their appearance in Cinco Ranch, check out tour dates listed on their website at LarryJoeTaylor.com.As always, there’s no cover charge in Cinco Ranch so bring a blanket, picnic, take a seat on the hillside facing the pavilion, and enjoy the show!All Cinco Ranch residents and their guests are invited to attend!

September 3
Fall for the Arts Luncheon
Willowfork Country Club
12:00-1:30 p.m.
Purchase tickets today online or phone 281-829-ARTS.Individual Tickets are $50 and a table for 8 is $500.

September 6
Alzheimer’s Association 2008 Memory Walk
LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch
23501 Cinco Ranch Boulevard at Grand Parkway
Saturday- Registration begins at 7a.m.; Walk starts at 8a.m.
The Alzheimer's Association Memory Walk is the nation's largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer care, support and research. Alzheimer’s is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The Alzheimer’s Association, the world leader in Alzheimer’s research, care and support, is dedicated to finding prevention methods, treatments and an eventual cure for the disease. You can start a team today and walk for an important cause.

September 6
Mingle With HGTV Host Carter Oosterhouse
Fall Katy Home & Garden Show
The Merrell Center
10:30 a.m. to noon
Even if you don’t need to consult with Carter Oosterhouse on a construction project, you don’t want to miss “Coffee with Carter” and the chance to meet the hunky 6’2” carpenter.Join the host and construction expert of HGTV’s hit show, Carter Can for “Coffee with Carter” presented by Don McGill Toyota of Katy and benefiting the Krause Children’s Treatment Center.Guests will have the opportunity to meet, mingle and take photos with the television star while enjoying coffee and pastries courtesy of Starbucks. Tickets for “Coffee with Carter” are $30, which includes discounted admission to the Fall Katy Home & Garden Show.Seating for the exclusive meet and greet is limited.To purchase tickets, visit krausechildrenscenter.org or call 713-557-3802.

September 6
Prairie Plant Rescue
Saums Road Prairie and KPC Field Office
6:30 – 9 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Katy Prairie Conservancy (KPC) and the Houston Audubon Society (HAS) are collaborating with government agencies and other conservation organizations to save increasingly rare coastal prairie plants from the pristine Saums Road prairie in west Harris County. Rescued plants will be used by KPC, HAS, and other institutions to restore and enhance grasslands on the Katy Prairie, along Brays Bayou, and other places in Houston. All participants should wear long pants, a long-sleeved shirt, a hat, and closed-toe shoes. Please bring water, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a shovel. Registration is required for this event and a liability waiver must be signed by all plant rescue participants and returned to Flo Hannah. You will be asked to leave the property if you do not have a signed waiver with Ms. Hannah. If you do not already have a waiver on file, please fax your completed liability waiver to Flo Hannah at 713-461-2911 no later than noon, September 4, 2008.

September 6 and 7
Fall Home & Garden Show
Merrell Center
6301 South Stadium Lane
Sat. 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Sun. 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
You asked for it – You got it! In response to numerous requests for a Fall Home & Garden Show in Katy, we're pleased to let you know that we listened and created a show just for you! Katy’s first Fall Home & Garden Show will showcase over 250 exhibits on two floors! This Fall Home & Garden Show will feature a Kitchen & Bath Idea Center, Green Products Showcase and “Dock Dogs” competition. No need to drive to Houston anymore for a great Fall Home & Garden Show! Tickets are $8 for adults.Children 12 and under are free.Parking is free.For more information about the 2008 Fall Katy Home & Garden Show, visit KatyShows.com or call 281-392-2177.

September 8
Tax Preparer Course
Jackson Hewitt
5160 Franz Rd.
Moonlight as a tax wiz next tax season. 12-week tax classes starting September 8th. More information at http://www.jacksonhewitt.com/?TaxSchool. Employment is guaranteed if you get an A or B in the class and pass background and reference checks. There is a fee for the class but it will be refunded when you start working. Call 281-391-2006 to register.

September 8
General Meeting and Homecoming Program
Seven Lakes High School
7 p.m.
The SLHS PTSA will also be hosting our first General Meeting and Homecoming Program in the 9th grade commons. Our homecoming program is a Seven Lakes tradition and will feature information on Spartan Homecoming traditions, mums and garters, fashions and much more. This is a great opportunity to find out what Homecoming is all about.

September 8 – November 12
Free Tax School
Liberty Tax Office
2112 N. Fry Rd.
Classes held every Monday, Wednesday 6:30 – 9:30 p.m. or every Tuesday, Thursday 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.Come Join us to learn a new skill and opportunity to make some extra money in the future. Call Today to register: 281-599-8299 or email: liberty.fryroad@libertytax.com. Small book fee.

September 9 – December 16
Ladies Bible Studies
The Fellowship at Cinco Ranch
Ladies in the Katy and surrounding community are invited to either or both of the upcoming Fall Ladies Bibles studies. Two great studies are planned – “Return to the Garden: Embracing God’s Design for Sexuality” by Kay Arthur and “Annointed, Transformed, Redeemed: A Study of David” by Beth Moore, Kay Arthur and Priscilla Shirer. Each study is 6 weeks long, meeting every Tuesday evening and the first study begins on September 9th and the second study will end on Dec 16th. You will be given a meeting schedule when you attend and workbooks will be available for $12.00. All studies will meet in the Loft (upstairs) at The Fellowship, and childcare is provided, with reservations please (ladies@thefellowship.org). Please come and join us – we will have a great time getting to know one another and growing in God’s word. If you are looking for a way to get to know other ladies, this is a great place. For questions or more information: ladies@thefellowship.org.

September 11
Author Luncheon
Brookwood
1752 FM 1489, Brookshire
10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Andrea White will speak about her book “Window Boy” and being the wife of Houston Mayor, Bill White. Seminar and lunch - $19.95 including tax & gratuity. Reservation and pre-payment required. RSVP by 9/4 at 281-375-2149.

September 13th
"Pink on the Patio" Art Gala & Silent Auction
Falcon Point Country Club
24503 Falcon Point Dr.
7 – 11 p.m.
The women of the Chi Omicron Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. will host their 2nd annual Pink on the Patio Art Gala & Silent Auction.Admission is $50 and tickets can be purchased online at chiomicronomega.net (click on Calendar page and scroll down to event). Katy and Houston artists will exhibit art work from several genres. The silent auction gifts will consists of entertainment tickets, luxury services and much more! This will be an exciting evening of art, entertainment, food and fun. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Chi Omicron Omega chapter Scholarship Fund for deserving high school seniors in the West Houston area. For more information or to purchase tickets in person, please contact Rhonda at 832-722-6500.

September 15
Massage for the Cure
Katy and Houston-area Massage Envy Locations
8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Massage Envy will be giving away free one-hour massages at its Katy and all Houston-area locations in exchange for a donation of any amount. All donations will be given to the local Susan G. Komen foundation to help fight breast cancer. Reservations for massage appointments will be taken the entire week preceding the event, beginning at 8 a.m. Monday, September 8, 2008. Call early, as spots are expected to fill quickly.For more information, visit www.massageenvy.com.

September 18
Health Fair
Epiphany of the Lord Church
1530 Norwalk Drive
9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Epiphany of the Lord Church is hosting a health fair. The event is free and there will be 30 area healthcare facilities/providers to answer questions about elder care and give information for you or your loved one. The Christus Health Mobile and flu shots will be available. Call Epiphany Outreach Department at 281-578-0707 for more information.

September 18
Rally Night
Memorial Parkway Elementary
7 p.m.
Cub Scout Pack 239 would like to invite all boys 1st through 5th grade to join us.Come learn about our many fun and exciting activities for the boys and their families in this upcoming year of Cub Scouting. For more information please call James Meredith at 713-299-3072.

September 19
Partners in Education Open House
Katy ISD Merrell Center Arena
8 - 9:30 a.m.
Our business community is invited to join us as our Katy ISD campus principals and liaisons step out for a meet and greet of business partners, new and old.But, a friendly reminder ~the Open House is not a solicitation opportunity, but rather a renewal/initiation of School Business Partnerships.Find an explanation of Katy ISD partnerships at katyisd.org/partners/school_business.htm.For more information or to RSVP, contact Ann Nix at 281-396-2645 or annrnix@katyisd.org.

September 20
WOW Family Festival
LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch
Heritage Square
23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. at Grand Pkwy.
Noon – 4:00 p.m.
With 20 KISD elementary schools represented, the WOW Family Festival will focus on raising healthy, active and creative kids. The festival features Texas Commission on the Arts touring artists and cultural arts presentations, along with booths and activities provided by Texas Parks and Wildlife including: Texas Forest Service, Nature Realized; Connecting your Children to the Land and Urban Outdoor programs. Texas Beef Council, Recipes for Success and other healthy lifestyle resources will be represented. For more information about the Texas PTA WOW Family Festival call 713-444-1897 or email wow-texas-pta@earthlink.net.

September 21
Adventure Guides and Princesses Open House
YMCA Camp Cinco
15050 Cinco Park Blvd.
3 - 5 p.m.
Adventure Guides is designed for children entering Kindergarten – 3rd grade. This is a father/child program which fosters companionship and understanding between father and child, in a wholesome atmosphere that emphasizes fun and adventure. We draw on activities which emphasize family values and respect for the environment. Our open house will feature the ropes course, archery course and BB gun range. Refreshments provided. For more information, contact Brandon Gonzalez at 281-392-5055.

September 22
YMCA Winter Youth Sports Registration Begins
Katy Family YMCA
22807 Westheimer Pkwy.
Register for YMCA Winter Youth Sports! Offerings for ages 3-12 include Winter Basketball, Kickball and Cheerleading. Call the YMCA at 281-392-5055 for details and pricing.

September 25
World’s Largest Ice Cream Social
LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch
Cold Stone Creamery
23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. at Grand Pkwy.
5:00 p.m. – 8: p.m.
Stop by any Houston or Katy area Cold Stone Creamery throughout September and purchase a Make-A-Wish star. Then, come back for the World's Largest Ice Cream Social on September 25 and get a free Make-A-Wish ice cream creation.

September 26
KEYS Kick-Off
Katy ISD Education Support Complex Board Room
7:30 – 10:00 a.m.
Returning KEYS mentors, new mentors and anyone interested in mentoring a Katy ISD student through KEYS are invited. The event will feature breakfast, fellowship with other mentors, orientation for new mentors, and helpful discussions about the impact of mentoring on students on the brink of success.Find an explanation of the KEYS mentor program at katyisd.org/partners/keys.htm.For more information or to register, contact Martha Brown at 281-396-2468 or marthabrown@katyisd.org.

September 27
2008 Walk MS
Katy Mills Mall
Help Katy TX raise money for the MS Walk by donating money to the Amazing Tinkerbell's Katy team. All proceeds go directly to the MS Society to help people with MS keep moving. Day of Event registration begins at 7 a.m. with the walk stepping out at 8:00 a.m. The Walk includes a 1 mile loop of the mall, starting at Sun & Ski Sports. Enjoy breakfast by Panera and entertainment from Round Rock Entertainment. With your help, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Lone Star Chapter assists more than 17,000 people who face the daily challenges of MS. Your support has a profound, positive effect in the lives of thousands of men, women and children with multiple sclerosis.
You can call Pamela Steenhoek at 281-904-5447 or visit the MS Society Houston MS walk homepage and donate under the Amazing Tinkerbells. You can also donate money to the Amazing Tinkerbells through the mail at: MS Walk National MS Society, P.O. Box 4125, Houston TX 77210.

September 27 - 28
Katy Women’s Show
Merrell Center
6301 S Stadium Ln.
A Shoppers Paradise…from clothes and jewelry to health and fitness, at this upscale marketplace you’ll find the latest products and services for women in fashion, beauty, health, nutrition, fitness, financial planning, careers, home, education and more. Enjoy a fun “Girl’s Day Out” - indulge in chocolate and coffee sampling, get great advice on the best styles for your body type from Missus Smarty Pants, see the latest trends at daily fashion shows and luncheons – plus – score a lavish goodie bag!

September 28
Art Under the Magnolias
The Pink Magnolia
1306 Ave. A
11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Escape. Enjoy. Relax.Please join us for an afternoon of art, fine craft, food, and music.We will be featuring new work by local area teachers and artists. Call 281-391-7778 for more info.

September 29
Gala Golf Tournament
Willow Fork Country Club
Join us for our Annual Gala Golf Tournament benefiting the Eagle’s Trace Benevolent Care Fund.Golf registration will include: greens fee, cart rental, range balls, lunch and dinner.Larry Alford, the “One Armed Bandit” will be at the course to share his inspirational view on golf and life.As a nationally ranked junior golfer headed for the professional tour, Larry Alford lost his arm in an automobile accident.The loss of his arm proved only to be a minor setback for him.Through dedication and hard work, he is playing to a four handicap.His story is truly an inspiration.A Gala will also be held on October 11.Sponsorship and tickets are available for both the golf tournament and gala.For further information, please contact Rachel Giuliani at 281-249-7221.

October 4
Blessing of the Animals
First Christian Church, Katy
22102 Morton Ranch Rd.
6 p.m.
Katy's First Christian Church invites all animal lovers to their Blessing of the Animals service.A group service will be followed by individual blessings for each animal.Owners who are not comfortable bringing their pets to the service can bring photographs of them instead.All pets must be on a leash or in a cage.Items will be accepted for donation to Special Pals Animal Shelter.Items specifically requested by Special Pals are: paper towels, bleach, kitchen trash bags, kitty litter, and pet treats.For more information, go to the church's website at fcckaty.com or call the office at 281-492-2693.

October 11
Fall Family Festival
St. Peter's United Methodist Church
20775 Kingsland Blvd.
3 – 6 p.m.
Join us for family fun, food and games at the St. Peter’s Early Childhood Development Center Fall Family Festival.For more information please call 281-492-0623.

October 11 – 12
Katy Rice Harvest Festival
The annual Katy Rice Harvest Festival is two big days of excitement and family fun with three stages of continuous live entertainment, craft and food booths, carnival and more.Shuttle Schedule: Saturday 7:45 a.m. – 12:30 a.m. and Sunday 9:45 a.m. – 7:30 p.m., Continuous.

October 18
Pick-a-Dilly Crafts Fair
St. Peter’s United Methodist Church
20775 Kingsland Blvd., Katy.
9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
St. Peter’s UMC is having its 18th Annual Pick-a-Dilly Crafts Fair on October 18.There will be indoor & outdoor craft booths, a silent auction, pumpkin patch, and more.Admission is free!Call 281-492-8031 ext 377 or visit stpeterskaty.org.

October 24
DiscoverU
Katy ISD Merrell Center Arena & Education Support Complex
8:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Katy ISD Partners in Education’s annual conference for volunteers, mentors and community members offering an array of wonderful workshops with dynamic presenters. Registration fees include breakfast and lunch. Early registration (received by October 10th) - $15 Late registration (received by October 17th) - $20.There is also an optional early bird session at 7:45 a.m.Find details about Discover U at kisdwebs.katyisd.org/partners/vips/Pages/default.aspx.For more information or to register, contact Martha Brown at 281-396-2468 or marthabrown@katyisd.org.

October 25
Life is Good Pumpkin Festival
Cinco Ranch Blvd. and Spring Green Blvd.
12 – 4 p.m.
A free family event, the Life is good Pumpkin Festival will include a pumpkin patch, pumpkin decorating, camel rides, carnival games and more. Admission is free, with voluntary donations and proceeds from the sale of pumpkins benefitting HomeAid and Project Joy. For more information, visit newlandpumpkinfestival.com.

October 25
Carnival & Craft Bazaar
West Memorial Elementary
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Games, prizes, silent auction, food and shopping - something for every member of the family. Proceeds benefit the needs of the classrooms and school. Also, if you are interested in earning some extra holiday money, join our bizarre. You pay a small booth fee and keep the profits from the products sold. Contact Christy Bohlen if interested. 832.795.1915

October 31
Trick-Or-Treat Down Main Street
5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
The public is invited to grab their little goblins and head to LaCenterra’s Trick-or-Treat down Main Street this Halloween. A safe alternative to trick-or-treating door-to-door, the free event is open to kids 12 and under accompanied by a parent (or guardian). Who’s treating? Parents should look for participation pumpkins denoting retailers offering tasty treats. The first 200 kids will receive treat bags courtesy of LaCenterra retailers. Bags will be available for pick-up in Heritage Square (central courtyard) beginning at 5:30 p.m. This year’s event includes a pirate-themed family funhouse presented by the Cinco Ranch Ladies Club. Admission is free, however, donations are welcomed as proceeds benefit Carrie’s Heart, a local nonprofit dedicated to improving the education, community involvement and overall quality of life of children with disabilities worldwide. For information on Carrie’s Heart, visit carriesheart.org.

ONGOING KATY AREA EVENTS

Through August 27
NFL Flag Football Registration
CrossPoint Community Church
700 S. Westgreen Blvd.
CrossPoint Community Church’s Sports Ministry announces NFL Flag Football registration has begun!We are excited to team up with our Katy YMCA to offer this great program for boys and girls ages 5 – 17. The league season will run on Saturdays, September 20 through November 8 at the athletic fields at the church.Each participant receives a reversible NFL Flag jersey, set of NFL flags, trophy and entrance into our end of season Bowl Game celebration. Cost is $95.00 per person with online registration available at crosspt.org/sports or call 281-945-5151. Registration ends August 27.

Throughout Summer
Katy Lacrosse Club – New Season Registration
High School age young men living in the ‘zoned’ area of Katy High School, either attending public, private or being home schooled may become a member of this team. Lacrosse is the fastest growing sport among Jr. and Sr. High programs in Texas. We often hear so much about football, especially in Katy, but the sport of Lacrosse is just as demanding if not more so in regards to specific skills, such as speed, agility, coordination, and endurance is often likened to many techniques known in soccer, basketball and hockey. We are so pleased to have Matt Spears, our Head Coach returning, who led us to 8 wins out of 10, in our very first season. Registrations are being taken this summer, season practices will begin in early August. Registration packet is available on the website so please check us out at lacrosse@katy.com or by email: debbieddowdell@yahoo.com.

Through September
TOP Soccer for Special Needs Kids
CrossPoint Community Church
700 S. Westgreen Blvd.
CrossPoint Community Church’s Sports Ministry announces TOP Soccer registration has begun! TOP Soccer is specifically designed for boys and girls with special needs, ages 4 – high school. The program will run on four Saturdays, October 4 through October 25 from 10:00 – 11:30 AM at the athletic fields at the church. Each participant receives a jersey, shorts, socks and a specially designed soccer ball. If you would like to be part of this program either by making a donation to help offset expenses, or volunteering your time as a “buddy”, e-mail Chrisse Reed at cvreed@mac.com. Cost for participants is only $30.00 per person with online registration available at crosspt.org/sports or call 281-945-5151 for more information.

Starting October 30
Pumpkin Patch
St. Peter’s United Methodist Church
20775 Kingsland
The PUMPKIN PATCH opens on Tuesday, October 30th - 9 a.m. Special birthday parties, playdates and other events can be scheduled for the patch. Contact Sandra Roberson, sroberson@stpeterskaty.org to schedule visits to The Patch. Hours of operation: Monday thru Sat. 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.; Sunday 11:30 a.m. - 7 p.m. Patch sponsored by YOUTH CREW for youth events and activities.

Fall 2008
HCC Export Academy
3100 Main St.
Seminar Room A
8 a.m. – noon
HCC’s Export Academy offers an eight-course program specifically for small to medium sized enterprises interested in exporting their products or services. Classes available from 9/10 – 12/10 and cover such topics as International Business Issues, Global Management and Marketing, Supply Chain Management and Logistics, Legal and Regulatory Compliance, and Trade Finance and Payment. Cost is $99 per course or $642 for all eight. Contact Deanna Teel at 713-718-5873 or Deanna.Teel@hccs.edu.

Mondays
Katy Adolescent and Parent Groups
St. Peter's United Methodist Church
20775 Kingsland Blvd
7 p.m.
Adolescents: Room S-203
Parents: Room S-204
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance sponsors free, volunteer-facilitated support groups for people with depression and bipolar disorder, and for their families and friends. We also provide information to further education about and understanding of these treatable disorders. Our Adult Groups are for those 18 and older, while our adolescent groups are for those between the ages of 13 and 18. For information about other groups in the Greater Houston Area, please go to dbsahouston.org and click on "find support" or call us at 713-600-1131.

Monday Nights
L.I.F.T. (Ladies In Faith Together) Weekly Bible Study
Pin Oak Community Center, Katy TX
6:45 p.m.
Join us for food, fellowship, fun, study, and service projects in the community. Everyone is welcome as we are a group of women from many different backgrounds, with the amount of Bible knowledge differing individually from none to quite a bit. For more information, call Joee at 281-914-6641.

Tuesdays, Oct. 7-Nov. 11
Write a Winning Business Plan Workshop
U. of H. Cinco Ranch
4242 S. Mason Rd
7:30 – 9:00 a.m.
The Katy Area Chamber of Commerce and the Houston Chapter of SCORE will present their highly successful “Write a Winning Business Plan” workshop series beginning Oct. 7.SCORE counselors will take you through a step-by-step process to develop your own business plan which could help you get financing and, more importantly, be a blueprint for a successful operation.To register call the Katy Area Chamber at 281-391-5289.

Tuesdays
Katy Adult Group
St. Peter's United Methodist Church
20775 Kingsland Blvd.
7 p.m.
Room S-209
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance sponsors free, volunteer-facilitated support groups for people with depression and bipolar disorder, and for their families and friends. We also provide information to further education about and understanding of these treatable disorders. Our Adult Groups are for those 18 and older, while our adolescent groups are for those between the ages of 13 and 18. For information about other groups in the Greater Houston Area, please go to www.dbsahouston.org and click on "find support" or call us at 713-600-1131.

Third Tuesday of Each Month
Katy Amateur Radio Society General Meeting
M.U.D. Building #81
Cimmaron Parkway at Hidden Canyon Road (just west of Mason Road)
7:30 - 9:00 p.m.
The Katy Amateur Radio Society (KARS) meetings are held each month.Talk-in on the 147.200 MHz repeater, PL-141.3. We are an active amateur radio club in Katy, TX which supports all types of radio communications for hobby, fun, and emergency service. Anyone with an amateur radio license, or just an interest in amateur radio communications, is welcome to come and join us! For more information please visit our web site at www.katyars.com.

Fourth Tuesdays of the Month
(except Dec. and Summer months)
Family to Family Network Meetings
Kingsland Baptist Church
7 p.m.
Family to Family Network - Katy Chapter - is an organization dedicated to helping families of children with disabilities by providing information, training, referral and support in order to help families successfully navigate the complex education, medical and social service systems. Their goal is to maximize each child’s potential, so they can be included in schools and communities. The purpose is to provide positive support and encouragement for parents while helping them to be active and involved advocates for their child. Meetings also provide opportunities for networking with other parents to gain new ideas and information. Contact Brenda at 713 466-6304, for more information.

First Wednesday of Each Month
Greater Katy Exchange Club
Azzarelli’s Italian Restaurant
22764 Westheimer Pkwy.
6:30 p.m. – 8:15 p.m.
The Greater Katy Exchange Club meets the first Wednesday of each month at Azzarelli's Italian Restaurant.The Exchange Club is group of men and women working together to make our community better places to live through programs of service in Americanism, Community Service, Youth Activities, and the Prevention of Child Abuse. Anyone is welcome to attend.For more information contact Rachel Dunham 832-216-8524, Newell Cheatheam 281-392-3034 or visit www.katyexchangeclub.com.

First Thursday of Each Month
The Club at Falcon Point, Katy TX
11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
The West Houston Express Network (WHEN) of the American Business Women’s Association (ABWA) meets on the first Thursday of each month. For more information contact Bettie Jones at 281-579-0761, ext. 625 or visit our website at www.whenabwa.org.

First Thursday of Month
Mystery Matters Book Club
Katy Budget Books
7 p.m.
Come join us for some mystery!

Third Thursday of each month
Autism Support Group
St. Peter’s Methodist Church
Ashbury Hall
7 – 9 p.m.
This group was established as a support group for caregivers of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders in Katy, TX. This group will discuss the many issues involved in parenting a child with autism spectrum disorders.This group is open to both parents and educators in Katy ISD and surrounding areas, because it is only through working together that we can best serve our children.

Thursdays Through August 28
Hot Nights, Cool Jazz Series
LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch Heritage Square (central courtyard)
6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch, Katy and west Houston’s place to shop and play, announces jazz performances each Thursday throughout the summer. Guests are invited to unwind after a long day or ease into the weekend with the smooth stylings of the area’s premier jazz musicians.All events are free and open to the public. Courtyard performances will take place weather permitting. Showtimes and performers subject to change. Please visit lacenterra.com for additional information and the latest event announcements.
August 14 - Lone Star Jazz Collective
August 21 - White Stone Craving
August 28 - Cool Breeze

Saturdays
AM Chi – Free Tai Chi
LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch
Heritage Square
23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. at Grand Pkwy.
7 – 8 a.m.
LaCenterra offers free Tai Chi classes each Saturday morning in Heritage Square hosted by instructor, Cynthia Leathers. Participants are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item or pet item to the class. Donations will be gifted to the Katy Christian Ministries food pantry and Special Pals animal shelter and adoption center. For wish list items, please visit ktcm.org or specialpalsshelter.org.

Saturdays Through December 6
Weekly Farmers Market at LaCenterra
LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch Heritage Square (central courtyard)
23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. at Grand Pkwy.
8a.m. – noon
Third Saturdays of the month
The Farmers Market at LaCenterra will offer handmade treasures from local artisans on the third Saturday of the month beginning June 21, 2008.The Market offers locally grown produce and handmade products from vendors in and around the greater Katy area. Market items include: organic skin care, honey, fresh breads, olive oil, free range eggs, natural pet foods, seasonal produce, fresh flowers and more. For market information please visit www.lacenterra.com or call 281-395-5533. Artist and vendor applications are now being accepted. For vendor inquiries and application information, please contact Ro Cazenave at 281-579-1664, email farmersmarket@lacenterra.com or visit www.farmersmarketatlacenterra.com.

Saturdays Through August 30
Lacenterra Announces Summer Saturdays in Cinco
23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd. at Grand Pkwy.
Starts at 10:30 a.m. on each date
LaCenterra at Cinco Ranch is pleased to announce the Summer Saturdays in Cinco series presented in partnership with the Cinco Ranch Property Owners Association and ARTreach. Summer Saturdays in Cinco is a children’s cultural arts series offering free educational performances throughout the summer August 16 - jazz musician JAWAD presents “The Roots of American Music” in Simply Cinco.
August 23 - the series ends in Heritage Square with the high-energy dance of URGEWORKS! presenting “Be You!” To learn more about ARTreach and programs offered, log onto www.ARTreachonline.org.