Clear Lake Chatter

December 1st, 2018

Clear Lake Panhellenic Fall Fashion Show Chairman Greta Mee, right, can hardly wait for the production to begin as she goes over the program with Laurie Vaughn, who headed the Finance Committee.

Panhellenic takes guests ‘Around the World’

CLEAR LAKE Panhellenic took the community on a trip “Around the World in 80 Days” at its 33rd annual Fall Fashion Show Luncheon Nov. 2 at South Shore Harbour Resort with Chairman Greta Mee and Co-Chairman Jill Stephenson leading the way.

Panhellenic President D’Lisa Johnston joined Vice Presidents Sheryl Williams and Kathryn Vernau, Secretary Darla McKitrick and Treasurer Kim Barker in welcoming the crowd, which quickly filled up the hotel’s Crystal Ballroom as several Panhellenic husbands filled the role of champagne stewards – Dan Reason, Jim Overman, Frank Prochaska, Joe Mee, Robert Barfield and Richard Beecher.

All were anxiously waiting to see the style show put on by fashion guru Lenny Matuszewski, and he didn’t disappoint as Panhellenic members Annette Dwyer, Beth McDaniel, Jennifer Prochaska, Jenny Frantz, Courtney Myers, Sandy Records, Hillary Gramm, Marcy Ortega, Rhonda Salinsky, Becky Hensley, Diane Overman, Wendy Shaw, Janet Jones, Carrie Peters, Kathryn Vernau, Michelle Lillie, Stacy Lyon, Cindy Priebe, Mackenzie Walker and Judge Holly Williamson modeled fall and winter fashions from Dillard’s at Baybrook Mall.

Dana Brown, left, and Sally Jordan help sign the crowd in for the Clear Lake Panhellenic Fall Fashion Show.

Afterwards, guests bid on a number of trips – to Paris, France; San Jose del Cabo, Mexico; Zulu Nyala, South Africa; Napa Valley, Calif.; and Bali, Indonesia.

Others who played key roles in the annual production included Janet Jones, Kim Barker, Karen Douglas, Rachel Stephenson, Laurie Vaughn, Diane Overman, Elizabeth McCarty, Kelsey Richardson, Lisa O’Brien, Sue Broughton, Barbara Dickey, Sheryl Williams and Becky Hensley.

Proceeds from the event benefit the Crawford-Zbanek Scholarship Foundation, which awards college scholarships to area women and sends local girls to Girl’s State.

 

The honorees get together for a group photo as the annual gala gets under way. They are, from left, front row, Anita Lewis, Becky Day, League City Mayor Pat Hallisey, Crystal Starke, Dee Scott; back row, Christian Bionat, Bob Mitchell, Michael Kramm, Lynn B. Watkins and Greg Ploss.

CCEF Gala honors 10, raises $75,000

A CROWD of more than 350 helped honor the award winners at the 18th annual Clear Creek Education Foundation gala, “A White Haute Affair,” which raised $75,000 for innovative programs for students in the Clear Creek School District.

League City Mayor Pat Hallisey was named Citizen of the Year, an award voted on by the CCISD trustees and the CCEF, and Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership President Bob Mitchell was the recipient of the George B. Carlisle Distinguished Service Award – both honored for their consistent commitment to the school district.

Other honorees included:

The Distinguished Alumni Award — presented to individuals who are CCISD alumni and are now accomplished professionals who support their community — went to Christian Bionat (Clear Lake High ’09) and Lynn B. Watkins (Clear Creek High ’66).

The Valor Award, which honors a public servant (military, police, fire, etc.) who has gone above and beyond the call of duty, was presented to Michael Kramm.

The CCISD Superstar Award, bestowed on a select group of individuals who support and enhance CCISD whether alumni or not, went to Becky Day, Dee Scott, CCISD Secondary Teacher of the Year Anita L. Lewis and CCISD Elementary Teacher of the Year Crystal Starke.

Greg Ploss, Chemical Process and Production official, was the recipient of the Dennis Johnson Memorial Small Business Award, presented to a small business owner within CCISD who demonstrates an unwavering commitment to the district through active participation in multiple activities:

Volunteers who worked on the CCEF fundraiser were CCEF Community Marketing and Events Manager Kelsey Richardson; Co-Chairmen Cameron Cannon and Jana Miller; and committee members Joyce Abbey, Kim Barker, Katy Bastedo, Janet Brown, Suzanne Fair, Kimberly Fleming, Ann Hammond, Lisa Holbrook, Laura Mackay, Joan McKinney, Sarah Moutz, Jill Reason, Elaine Renola, Deena Rigby, Mary Ann Shallberg, Teresa Vencil, Rhonda Quillin and Elizabeth Wiehle Wang.

All funds raised from the gala go toward inspiring educational excellence in CCISD through CCEF’s programs: Educational grants for both teachers and students, Clear Horizon Early College High School and National Board Teacher Certifications.

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in Community, News | No Comments

Houston Methodist Clear Lake Pledges $500,000 to expand Leader in Me program

November 1st, 2018

Joining in to celebrate the CCISD Leader In Me Houston Methodist announcement at the Clear Creek Education Foundation Kick Off Breakfast were Armand Bayou Elementary students, from left to right, 5th grader Miller Skowron, 4th grader Sophia Tamayo, 5th grader Carmen Evans, and 1st grader Violet Van Haaren; along with Port Commissioner John Kennedy, who serves on the Houston Methodist Board of Directors; CCISD Superintendent Dr. Greg Smith and attorney Levi Benton with Mahomes Bolden PC and on the hospital Board of Directors and CCEF Board of Directors.

Houston Methodist Clear Lake Hospital has committed half a million dollars to the Clear Creek Education Foundation in support of the Clear Creek School District’s planned expansion of The Leader In Me program in 14 schools over the next five years.

The announcement was made at the Clear Creek Education Foundation’s Community Kickoff Breakfast held at the CCISD Challenger Columbia Stadium Fieldhouse.

Clear Creek ISD is in its third year of progressively implementing The Leader In Me program at its schools. The Leader In Me program is a whole school transformation process that teaches 21st century leadership and life skills to students and creates a culture of student empowerment based on the idea that every child can be a leader. This mindset leads to tangible improvements in the academic, behavioral and social wellbeing of participating students.

With funding made possible by the Clear Creek Education Foundation, Falcon Pass Elementary and Armand Bayou Elementary schools were the first two CCISD campuses to introduce The Leader In Me program into their school culture. Both campuses have seen the trajectory of their school’s academic performance rise along with student achievement and positive behaviors.

Over the next five years, the Houston Methodist Clear Lake contribution will have the power to substantially increase the footprint of The Leader In Me in CCISD and positively impact an additional 13,000 students in grades pre-k through 12 throughout the District.

“The impact of Houston Methodist’s generous commitment will be both measurable and immeasurable for years to come,” said Superintendent Dr. Greg Smith. “Our students will be even better equipped to achieve their full potential, build the skill-set necessary for success in the 21st century and access more opportunities for a better life.”

The announcement comes on the heels of a similar commitment of $60,000 over three years by Space Center Rotary Club to begin the program at Space Center Intermediate.

Based on Stephen Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, The Leader in Me allows administrators, faculty, staff and students the opportunity to practice and celebrate the 7 Habits daily, learning how to be proactive, set goals and collaborate with others.

The Leader In Me is aligned with many national and state academic standards and the process teaches students the skills needed for academic success in any setting. These skills include critical thinking, goal setting, listening and speaking, self-directed learning, presentation making and the ability to work in groups.

“The Leader In Me cultivates the qualities and attitudes employers look for in today’s highly competitive environment,” said Houston Methodist Clear Lake Hospital CEO Dan Newman. “Self-management, independent thinking, problem-solving and other important skills like these empower our students with the tools they need to achieve success. I applaud CCISD’s innovation and its commitment to adopt The Leader In Me. Houston Methodist Clear Lake is proud to play a role in providing this unique opportunity to potential future leaders.”

The District plans to continue to expand the program into even more schools until every CCISD campus and student has the opportunity to experience The Leader In Me and unleash their full potential. Business, government and community organizations interested in becoming a Leader In Me underwriter and partner may contact Deborah Laine, executive director of the Clear Creek Education Foundation (a 501c3 organization) at 281.284.0031 or at [email protected].

Tags: , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Education, Health, News | No Comments

Space Center Rotary donating $60,000 for school program

October 1st, 2018

It was quite an excited crowd at Space Center Rotary when President Nancy Anderson presented a check for $20,000 to the Clear Creek Education Foundation for The Leader in Me program at Space Center Intermediate School. Among those taking part in the ceremony were, from left, banker Jim Stewart, realtor Jonathan Cottrell, Rotarians Bob Wren and Nancy Anderson, CCEF President Deborah Laine, Space Center Intermediate student leader Eden Fuentes, and Principal Ann Thorn, Clear Creek ISD Superintendent Dr. Greg Smith with Deputy Superintendent Paul McLarty, both Rotarians, and Dr. Karen Engle, assistant superintendent of secondary education.

By Mary Alys Cherry

In an effort to take education of students in the Clear Creek schools a step higher, Space Center Rotary Club is donating $60,000 over the next three years to the Clear Creek Education Foundation, which is overseeing a highly touted program called The Leader in Me.

The program was initially started locally two years ago at Falcon Pass Elementary in Clear Lake with a $50,000 CCEF grant. With the Rotary dollars, CCEF will now oversee a similar program at nearby Space Center Intermediate, Rotary Club President Nancy Anderson announced at the Aug. 27 club luncheon at Bay Oaks Country Club.

Others taking part in the ceremony were Space Center Intermediate Principal Ann Thorn, student leader Eden Fuentes, who went through the program at Falcon Pass, CCEF President Deborah Laine and a number of CCEF Board members.

The program utilizes Stephen Covey’s timeless “7 Habits of Highly Effective People:”

  • Be proactive
  • Begin with the end in mind
  • Put first things first
  • Think win-win
  • Seek first to understand, then to be understood
  • Synergize
  • Sharpen the saw

Over 3,000 Leader in Me Schools in 50 countries are embracing this new paradigm and discovering answers to the most challenging issues that educators face today.

The City of Webster plans to sponsor the program at McWhirter Elementary there and Seabrook Rotary is looking into sponsoring Leader in Me at Bay Elementary in Seabrook.

Former CCEF Executive Director Kaci Hanson saw the program as “a great investment we will be able to assess with the hopes of expanding it across the district for a larger impact…With dynamic programs like The Leader in Me, CCEF is fulfilling its mission of providing a world class education in CCISD.”

Falcon Pass Coach Rachel Holcomb thinks the program helps educators empower their students to become “game changers” in their education, health, community and in their relationships with others.

“It’s about kids recognizing that everyone has something to bring to the table and their potential is endless,” she added.

Space Center Rotary already sponsors the Early Act First Knight program at Whitcomb Elementary to help young children learn high ethical standards — honesty, discipline, responsibility, tolerance, confidence, perseverance and compassion.

Tags: , , , , ,
Posted in Community, Education, News | No Comments

CCEF names new executive director

July 16th, 2018

South Shore Harbour Resort General Manager Roy Green finds himself surrounded by pretty women as new Clear Creek Education Foundation Executive Director Deborah Laine, from left, drops by with CCEF Board Chairman Jill Reason and CCEF Marketing Manager Kelsey Richardson to meet him.

Deborah Laine of Texas City, a marketing and fundraising professional, is the new executive director of the Clear Creek Education Foundation. She replaces Kaci Hanson, who resigned so as to spend more time with her husband and two young sons.

She brings 13 years of experience as the executive director of the Texas City ISD Foundation for the Future and director of development and community relations for Texas City ISD. She has over 30 years of experience in marketing, advertising, fundraising, business relations and consumer goods packaging design.

Community involvement has been key to her roles in Texas City. She has actively served 13 years with the Texas City Rotary Club and is currently the president of that club while also serving a six-year term on the Rotary Foundation Board of Directors. This past year as president she worked with Rotarians from multiple clubs to introduce the Inaugural Galveston County Rotary Royal Court that brought further recognition and awareness of Rotarian work across the county. She has been named a Paul Harris Fellow and received the Vocational Service Award in 2011 from the Texas City Rotary Club.

Since 2005, Ms. Laine has been active in the Greater Houston Area Association of Education Foundations, serving as president in 2007/2008. Her work to develop the Inaugural Texas City ISD Hall of Honor in 2006 received the Crystal Award by the Texas School Public Relation Association. She has been an active TSPRA member since 2006 and has served as a presenter for workshops at TSPRA and TASB (Texas Association of School Boards) conferences.

She was named the Staff Star Nominee by the TCISD Administration Department for the 2012-2013 school year. Ms. Laine has worked on many projects for the good of Texas City and its kids that include participation in the Texas City 100 Year Centennial Planning Board, Rotary Youth Leadership Camp, Mainland Communities United Way, Texas City 2017 Goal Planning, and the Texas City La Marque Chamber of Commerce. In her role as executive director for the TCISD Foundation for the Future, she has worked with her board of directors to increase the net worth of the organization to $1.2 million and gifted over $3.6 million to programs for TCISD kids.

Ms. Laine will tell you that leaving her corporate career and beginning her new career in education to support kids has been a dream come true. She is married and spends most of her extracurricular time enjoying four adult children and special friends.

 

Tags: , , , , , , , ,
Posted in Education, News | No Comments

CCEF style show raises $28,000

July 1st, 2018

Fashion models Taylor Diggs, a junior at Clear Lake High, and Mikayla Anding, a Clear Falls High junior, show off pretty spring and summer fashions from Dillard’s at Baybrook Mall during the Clear Creek Education Foundation Fashion Show.

The Clear Creek Education Foundation‘s 12th annual fashion show showcased the many things CCEF loves about CCISD, using the theme, “I Love CCISD…District and Community Strong.”

Held at Mercedes-Benz of Clear Lake, the popular style show drew more than 220 guests and raised over $28,000 to support Clear Creek ISD academic enrichment programs.

The “CCISD Strong” Fashion Show, directed by national fashion event producer Lenny Matuszewski Jr., featured 50 high school juniors, along with 8 guest models who rocked the runway and 8 teachers modeling fashions from Dillard’s – Baybrook Mall and hair styles by Visible Changes.

Plus, League City Elementary kindergartner, Levi Maldonado, and his art teacher and homeroom teacher, Mrs. Aalund and Ms. Barrera, strutted the runway wearing t-shirts showcasing Levi’s design as the winning artist of the annual “CCISD Strong” Kindergarten Art Contest.

In addition to runway seating, 10 local restaurants provided stations offering hors d’oeuvres for guests, who also enjoyed talent vignettes featuring CCISD students – truly an event for all to enjoy.

Meanwhile, student groups including the Clear Springs Jazz Ensemble led by George Solis and the Clear Lake High School Soundwaves led by Jade Blakey, entertained guests before the fashion show. The Clear Springs Theatre, led by Mark Stonebarger, wowed the audience with a few scenes from “Shrek,” while the Clear Springs High Audio Video and Production team, led by Amber Pecsenye, captured the event in a keepsake high definition video.

“CCEF works year-round to develop and host programs that truly make a difference in the lives of CCISD students,” CCEF Executive Director Kaci Hanson said. “Our fashion show is a special time to educate the community on our initiatives and enlist their support, while showcasing many of the programs we love through this fun filled event. This year’s event did not disappoint.”

The event was planned by a 21-person volunteer committee that included CCEF Community Marketing and Events Manager Kelsey Richardson; Co-Chairmen Gina Conklin and Elizabeth Wang; and committee members Joyce Abbey, Summer Brauer, Suzanne Fair, Kimberly Fleming, Ann Hammond, Midge Herrod, Rebecca Lilley, Dinah Matthews, Laura Mackay, Amanda Mark, Sarah Moutz, Claudia Pardivala, Sonia Ponchak, Jill Reason, Deena Rigby, Skyler Rossacci, Brad Rossacci and Mary Ann Shallberg.

Mercedes Benz dealer Jerry Foyt, center, welcomes the CCEF style show committee. They are, from left, Skyler Rossacci, CCEF Events Manager Kelsey Richardson, Amanda Mark, CCEF Executive Director Kaci Hanson, CCEF Chairman Jill Reason, Co-Chairman Elizabeth Wang, Mary Ann Shallberg, Co-Chairman Gina Conklin, Brad Rossacci, CCISD Trustees Ann Hammond and Paige Rander and Laura Mackay.

Tags: , , , , , ,
Posted in Education, News | No Comments

CCEF MARKS 25th anniversary with glitz and glamour gala

December 1st, 2017

Kelsey Richardson, CCEF events manager, and her fiancé, Matthew McNeil enjoy the Glitz and Glamour Gala at South Shore Harbour Resort.

THE CLEAR CREEK Education Foundation celebrated its 25th anniversary in grand style honoring a dozen outstanding individuals at its Glitz and Glamour Gala and Awards Presentation Nov. 4 in South Shore Harbour Resort’s Crystal Ballroom.

Honorees introduced to the black-tie crowd of 350+ included Citizen of the Year Trent Martin, Distinguished Alumni Air Force Capt. Christin Hart, Connie Davis Fuller and Michael Janney; and Superstar Award honorees Kevin and Ruth Rendon Duke, Gary Mossman, Diana Matthews, Magali Gutierrez and Lauren Jehli.

Retired CCISD Superintendent Dr. Ron McLeod won the George Carlisle Award with Navy Capt. Scott Hartman the recipient of the Valor Award and South Shore Grill Owner Mickey Wooten receiving the Dennis Johnson Small Business Award.

The gala, chaired by Jill Reason, who came with her husband, Dan, featured many top Clear Creek ISD faces including Superintendent Dr. Greg Smith, Deputy Superintendent Dr. Steven Ebell, Assistant Superintendent Scott Bockhart, Communications Director Elaina Polsen, Clear Lake High Principal Karen Engle, Clear Springs Principal Gail Love and CCISD Trustees Chris Read, Laura DuPont, Ann Hammond and Board President Page Rander.

Elected officials you might have spotted included State Sen. Larry Taylor, State Reps. Dennis Paul and Dr. Greg Bonnen, Harris County Attorney Vince Ryan, Mayors Mark Denman of Nassau Bay and Julie Masters of Dickinson, Mayor Pro-tem Todd Kinzey and Councilman Keith Gross of League City and Councailman Jonathan Amdur, Bryce Klug and Don Matter of Nassau Bay – many with their spouses.

Mingling with the crowd, you might have bumped into CCEF Executive Director Kaci Hanson and her husband, Harris; CCEF Events Director Kelsey Richardson and her fiancé, Matthew McNeil; Brian and Erica Freedman, Pat and Wendell Wilson, Jason Bailey, Elizabeth Wang, Kippy Caraway, Susan and Shawn Bailey, Roy and Donna Montabano, Patty Cooper, Richard and Traci Dvorak and Joe and Dinah Matthews.

Others spotted enjoying the evening were Hayden and Jonathan Cottrell, Gene Hollier and Emmeline Dodd, Darrel and Fay Picard, Greg and Teresa Vensil, Badiha Nassar, Martha Bowles and Scott Rainey, Alberto and Eva deCardenas, Ron and Julie Masters, Nancy and Jerry Smith, Jennifer and Leon Coe, and attorney Joe Barlow and his wife, Jeanette.

Plus, Jim and Carol Saxe, Dr. Glenn and Sarah Freedman, Debbie and Dr. Peter Wuenschel, Chris Premont, Jamieson and Laura Mackey, Joe and Kelly Byrd, Greg and Pam Ploss, Margaret and Danny Snooks, Rachel and Carlos Villagomez, Gary and Elaine Renola and Leslie and Walt Huff.

Meet the 2017 Super Star Award winners – community leaders, from left, Dinah Matthews, Kevin and Ruth Rendon Duke and Gary Mossman plus CCISD Teachers of the Year Magali Gutierrez and Lauren Jehli, who were honored at the Nov. 4 Clear Creek Education Foundation Glitz and Glamour Gala at South Shore Harbour Resort. Photos by Mary Alys Cherry and Jill Reason.

Music at the Museum another big success

EACH YEAR, two of our long-time organizations – the Bay Area Museum Guild and Houston Symphony League Bay Area — come together in the fall for an enjoyable evening together called Music at the Museum.

This year was no exception with dozens gathering at the historic museum in Clear Lake Park for what one called “nothing short of fabulous.” The evening, chaired by Vicki Buxton and Carole Murphy, was filled with cheers, laughter and applause for the upbeat, popular music and humor of the entertainers, plus oohs and aahs over the exceptional food and wine.

Tags: , , ,
Posted in Community, News | No Comments

Dine Out to Donate

September 26th, 2017

CCEF invites YOU to “Dine Out to Donate” on Monday, Oct. 2 to support education! This year, 60 area restaurants will donate a portion of their revenue to CCEF which will benefit the students and teachers of the Clear Creek Independent School District.

CCEF is excited to have 60 local participating restaurants that will donate a portion of their Oct. 2 revenue to CCEF to benefit the students and teachers of the Clear Creek School District. The top two CCISD elementary, intermediate and high school campuses with the highest percentage of participation based on student population will win $1,000 and $500 respectively!

Participating Restaurants Include:

  • Angelo’s Pizza & Pasta, 400 W. Bay Area Blvd., Suite A | Webster
  • Aquarium, 11 Kemah Boardwalk| Kemah
  • Avenida Brazil, 201 Bay Area Blvd. | Webster
  • Bubba’s Shrimp Palace, 352 Gulf Fwy. N. | League City
  • Bubba’s Shrimp Palace, 113 6 th | San Leon
  • Carrabba’s Italian Grill, 502 W. Bay Area Blvd. | Webster
  • Chick-Fil- A, 2805 E. League City Pkwy | League City
  • Chuy’s, 20975 Gulf Fwy. | Webster
  • District Theaters, 1020 W. Nasa Pkwy. #152 | Webster
  • Esteban’s Café and Cantina, 402 W. Main St. | League City
  • Fudruckers, 2040 Nasa Rd. 1 | Houston
  • Fuzzy’s Taco Shop, 2660 Marina Bay Dr. | League City
  • Gatti’s Pizza, 16607 El Camino Real | Houston
  • Gio’s Flying Pizza & Pasta, 650 FM 517 W. | Dickinson
  • Grazia Italian Kitchen, 1001 Pineloch Dr. #1100 | Houston
  • Ichibon Japanese Seafood and Steakhouse, 18206 Egret Bay Blvd.| Houston
  • Jersey Mike’s, 2456 Marina Bay Dr. | League City
  • Jersey Mike’s, 2555 E. League City Pkwy. #130 | League City
  • Jimmy Changas, 2504 Gulf Fwy. |League City
  • Jinya Ramen Bar, 18299 Egret Bay Blvd. | Houston
  • Joe Lee’s Seafood Kitchen, 1108 Marina Bay Dr. | Clear Lake Shores
  • La Brisa Mexican Bar and Grill, 4001 Hwy. 146 | Bacliff
  • La Brisa Mexican Bar and Grill, 501 N. Wesley Dr. | League City
  • Landry’s Seafood, 1 Kemah Boardwalk | Kemah
  • Longhorn Steakhouse, 19019 Gulf Fwy. | Webster
  • Luigi’s Pizza and Pasta, 210 S. Hwy. 3 #C | League City
  • Luna’s Mexican Restaurant, 6555 South Shore Blvd. #B | League City
  • Luna’s Mexican Restaurant, 704 W. Parkwood | Friendswood
  • Maggiano’s Little Italy, 700 Baybrook Mall Dr.| Friendswood
  • Malay Malay Malaysian Restaurant, 2508 S. Gulf Fwy. #102 | League City
  • McDonald’s, 3140 Gulf Fwy. S. | League City
  • McDonald’s, 102 Hwy. 3 S. | League City
  • Mediterraneo, 18033 Upper Bay Rd. | Nassau Bay
  • Mediterraneo, 2409 Falcon Pass #160 | Houston
  • Sombrero Mexican Restaurant, 2640 E. League City Pkwy. | League City
  • Sombrero Mexican Restaurant, 6011 W. Main St. | League City
  • Nothing Bundt Cakes, 304 W. Bay Area Blvd. #400 | Webster
  • Opus Bistro, 1002 Aspen Rd. | Clear Lake Shores
  • Opus Ocean Grille, 1510 Marina Bay Dr. #124 | Clear Lake Shores
  • Pappas Bar-B- Q, 20794 Gulf Fwy. | Webster
  • Pappas Seafood House, 19991 I-45 S. | Webster
  • Pappasito’s Cantina, 20099 I-45 S. | Webster
  • Pei Wei Asian Diner, 19411-A Gulf Fwy. |Webster
  • Perry’s Steakhouse and Grille, 700 Baybrook Mall Dr. | Friendswood
  • PIZZAFIRE, 2471 Gulf Fwy. S. | League City
  • Pomodoro’s Cucina Italiana, 2700 Marina Bay Dr. | League City
  • Raising Cane’s, 2586 E. League City Pkwy. | League City
  • Red River BBQ & Grill, 1911 E. Main St. | League City
  • Saltgrass Steakhouse, 20241 Gulf Fwy.| Webster
  • San Lorenzo Taqueria, 3020 Marina Bay Dr. #E | League City
  • San Lorenzo Mexican Restaurant and Cantina, 2441 FM 646 W. #D | Dickinson
  • San Lorenzo Mexican Restaurant and Cantina, 3202 Marina Bay Dr. #G | Kemah
  • Schlotzsky’s, 221 S. Egret Bay Blvd. | League City
  • Skipper’s Greek Cafe, 1026 Marina Bay Dr. | Clear Lake Shores
  • Sloppy Nick’s Brooklyn Deli, 2800 Marina Bay Dr. #1 | League City
  • Sokols’ Greek Deli and Café, 2410 Bay Area Blvd. #C/D | Houston
  • South Shore Grille, 2800 Marina Bay Dr. #F | League City
  • Star Cinema Grill, 702 Baybrook Mall Dr. | Friendswood
  • Tommy’s Restaurant and Oyster Bar, 2555 Bay Area Blvd. | Houston
  • Zoes Kitchen, 1501- C Bay Area Blvd.

CCEF would like to invite YOU to “Ride to Give” on October 6th-8th by purchasing  discounted amusement ride wristbands at the Kemah Boardwalk. Discounted wristbands are $20.99 for anyone 48’’ and over and $15.99 for anyone under 48’’. CCEF will receive $4.00 for every discounted wristband purchased and all of the proceeds will directly benefit the students and teachers of CCISD. The first 50 wristbands sold will receive a FREE ticket to Stingray Reef.

Tags: , , , , , ,
Posted in Education, News | No Comments

CCEF style show raises funds to support CCISD programs

June 1st, 2017

Margaret McCarty showcases
fashions from Dillard’s at Baybrook.

This year’s 11th annual Clear Creek Education Foundation fashion show drew a crowd of more than 300 and raised over $20,000 to support academic enrichment programs in the Clear Creek Independent School District.

Held in League City at Mercedes-Benz of Clear Lake,  it had “I Love CCISD…Where Inspiration Becomes Reality!” as this year’s theme.
“CCEF works year-round to develop and host programs that truly make a difference in the lives of CCISD students,” CCEF Executive Director Kaci Hanson said. “Our fashion show is a special time to educate the community on our initiatives and enlist their support, while showcasing many of the programs we love through this fun filled event. This year’s event did not disappoint.”

Carsen Lee wears a big smile
as he comes down the runway.

The fashion show showcased many things CCEF loves about CCISD!  Complete with runway seating, hors d’oeuvre stations provided by 10 local restaurants, and talent vignettes featuring CCISD students, it was an event for all to enjoy. The “I Love CCISD” Fashion Show was directed by national fashion event producer Lenny Matuszewski Jr. with fashions and makeup provided by Dillard’s – Baybrook Mall, hair by Visible Changes and a Microsoft gaming station.
Focal points of the evening:

Fashions modeled by 75 CCISD high school juniors and guest models who are in good academic standing, involved in school and community activities, and who demonstrate all that is positive about CCISD;

McWhirter Elementary kindergartner, Mason Creger, and his teacher, Leena Elmore strutted down the runway wearing t-shirts showcasing Mason’s design as the winning artist of the annual “I Love CCISD” Kindergarten Art Contest.  This year’s design was a star showcasing “Why CCISD Shines.”
Student entertainment groups including the Clear Falls Jazz Ensemble, led by Russell Zavalla; the  Clear Lake High School Soundwaves, led by Raul Dominguez; Clear Springs High School Audio Video and Production, led by Amber Pecsenye; and Clear Springs Theatre, led by Mark Stonebarger; wowed the audience.

McWhirter kindergartner, Mason Creger and his teacher, Leena Elmore, left, and mother, Tina Creger, come down the runway wearing T-shirts showcasing Mason’s design as the winning artist of the annual “I Love CCISD” art contest that were sold throughout the district.
Photos by Elizabeth McCarty.

The event was planned by a 22-person volunteer committee that included: CCEF Executive Director Kaci Hanson, Fashion Show Chairman Kay Lee Benoit and committee members Kim Barker, Katy Bastedo, Marshall Bennett, Summer Brauer, Amanda Eaves, Melinda Emmons, Paige Fahey, Kimberly Fleming, Tisa Foster, Ann Hammond, Midge Herrod, Holly Hughes, Ellen King, Elizabeth McCarty, Donna McMartin, Sarah Moutz, Claudia Pardivala, Sonia Ponchak, Jill Reason, Deena Rigby, Skyler Rossacci and Elizabeth Wang.

“This event,” Hanson pointed out, “would not be possible without the support of our generous sponsors — Mercedes-Benz of Clear Lake, Ron Carter Clear Lake, Andrews Kurth, JSC Federal Credit Union, Dillard’s Baybrook, Memorial Hermann Southeast, The Reserve at Clear Lake City, UTMB, Awards of Distinction, Ann Hammond, The Ditta Family, The DeMasie Family, Greer, Herz & Adams, LLP, League City Councilman Nick Long, Dr. Mitch Foster, DDS, Ron Carter Autoland, Oral Surgery Associates, The Tanzberger Family, and food vendors Double Dave’s Pizza Works, Grazia Italian Kitchen, HEB, Jackie’s Brickhouse, Luka’s BBQ Steakhouse, Main St Bistro, Merlion Thai Restaurant, Nothing Bundt Cakes and Rise Cupcakes.”

Tags: , , , ,
Posted in Community, Education, News | No Comments

Clear Creek Education Foundation seeks nominees for annual awards

May 17th, 2017

Deadline Aug. 1

Nominations are now being accepted for annual awards for Distinguished Clear Creek Independent School District Alumni, CCISD Superstars and the Dennis Johnson Memorial Small Business Award. Recipients are selected by the Clear Creek Education Foundation.

The Distinguished Alumni award is presented to a CCISD graduate who has excelled in his or her chosen profession and has made a significant contribution to his/her community.

The CCISD Superstar is an individual who has made exceptional contributions that benefited the district (may or may not be a CCISD graduate). 

The Dennis Johnson Memorial Small Business Award will go to an individual who has made exceptional contributions that benefit the district and community as a small business owner.

Nomination forms may be found on the website www.clearcreekeducationfoundation.org  All nominations must be submitted by Tuesday, Aug. 1, 2017.  Nominations may be mailed to the Clear Education Foundation, P.O. Box 1631, League City, TX  77574 or emailed to Kelsey Richardson at Krichardson@clearcreekeducationfoundation.org  Awards will be presented at the Education Foundation Annual Gala on Saturday, Nov. 4 at South Shore Harbour Resort.

About CCEF

Established in 1992, the Clear Creek Education Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization located in League City, Texas.  Comprised of volunteers with a passion for excellence, the Foundation raises funds to enrich academic achievement within Clear Creek Independent School District. While the Foundation operates independently of the school district, it is aligned and collaborates closely with CCISD to promote excellence in education.

Tags: , , , , ,
Posted in Education, News | No Comments

Education Foundation honors 10 at 2014 gala

December 1st, 2014

Clear Creek ISD Superintendent Dr. Greg Smith, far left, joins the Clear Creek Education Foundation honorees for a photo as the 2014 Gala gets under way at South Shore Harbour Resort. They are, from left, John and Melinda Wycoff, Caycee Black, Jamieson Mackey, in back, Col. Eugenia Guilmartin, Dr. Sandra Mossman, Dr. C. Lynn Davis, Tony and Sharon Bloomfield, Catherine Sliva and her husband, Glenn, and Dr. Cindy Castille.

Clear Creek ISD Superintendent Dr. Greg Smith, far left, joins the Clear Creek Education Foundation honorees for a photo as the 2014 Gala gets under way at South Shore Harbour Resort. They are, from left, John and Melinda Wycoff, Caycee Black, Jamieson Mackey, in back, Col. Eugenia Guilmartin, Dr. Sandra Mossman, Dr. C. Lynn Davis, Tony and Sharon Bloomfield, Catherine Sliva and her husband, Glenn, and Dr. Cindy Castille.

By Mary Alys Cherry

A number of outstanding community volunteers were honored when the Clear Creek Education Foundation hosted its annual gala at South Shore Harbour Resort in League City.

Among them were Jamieson Mackey, former CCEF chairman and immediate past chairman of the Clear Lake Area Chamber, who was named Citizen of the Year, and retired Clear Creek ISD Superintendent Dr. Sandra Mossman, who was presented the George Carlisle Distinguished Service Award – both for their visionary leadership.

Distinguished Alumni Award winners for 2014 were:

  • Fashion designer Caycee Black, Clear Lake High 1989;
  • League City dentist Dr. C. Lynn Davis, Clear Creek High, 1968;
  • Former BlueRock Energy CEO Cathy Landeck Sliva, Clear Lake High 1976.

Other honorees included the winner of the Valor Award, U.S. Army Col. Eugenia K. Guilmartin, who earned her Ph.D at Stanford University after graduating from Clear Lake High in 1989 and became the first woman adjutant for the Corps of Cadets in the history of West Point; and Sharon and Tony Bloomfield, who won the Dennis Johnson Memorial Small Business Award for their strong support of both Clear Creek ISD and CCEF.

This year’s Superstar Award winners were:

  • Clear Lake dentist Dr. Cynthia Reichard Castille, who provided free dental care to a number of CCISD students;
  • League City architect John C. Wycoff and his wife, Dr. Melinda Wycoff, CCISD Gifted and Talented coordinator, who have been generous, both personally and financially to CCISD and the community.

Theme for this year’s gala was “You’ve Gotta Have Heart” and featured both live and silent auctions and dancing after dinner to Andy and the Dreamsicles.

Gala Co-Chairmen Katy Bastedo and Kay Lee Benoit hosted a reception in the Harbourview Room for the honorees and their escorts prior to the event, after which emcee Dr. Greg Smith welcomed the crowd of about 300 in the downstairs Crystal Ballroom.

Tags: ,
Posted in Education, News | No Comments

Bay Area Houston Magazine