Classifieds

Story Archive

Here is a listing of stories that have been listed on KatyInfo.com

Congratulations to
Jorge Alvarez
of Katy

Jorge Alvarez of Katy enlisted in the Navy, which is something that he wanted to do since he was 8 years old. Two months ago he shipped out to Great Lakes, Illinois and became part of a new Division, which is 840. They are a Special Forces unit and Jorge is member as part of his intense journey to become a Navy Seal.

Before leaving, one could often find Jorge in the gym at least 4 hours per day, plus running around the streets of Falcon Ranch. It was not uncommon to see him sprint to Cinco Ranch High School, where he would do approximately 30 chin-ups, 100 sit-ups, 50 push-ups, rope climbs, and more...and then run home.

Jorge graduated from Katy High School and was a member of their Tennis team. He also lettered in Hockey for Taylor. Jorge attended college at Cy-Fair until entering the Navy. Jorge is a member of St. Bart's Catholic Church in Katy.

Jorge is honored to serve our country, and we are honored to have Jorge helping to protect our nation. Go Navy Seals!!!

Katy Tigers -
State Champions

Our Katy Tigers claimed their 5th State Championship by defeating the Pflugerville Panthers 28-7 at the Alamodome.

Just before Christmas the Katy High Tigers headed to the Class 5A Division II finals with a 15-0 record. By the end of the game they finished their season with a perfect 16-0 record. What a perfect Christmas present these young men gave to themselves.

Katy struggled was trailing Pflugerville until the end of the first half, when a "hail mary" pass put Katy on the board to end the half.

In the second half of the game Katy scored 21 more points and held Pflugerville to the 7 points they scored early in the game. The final score was 28-7.

It's been 4 years since Katy won the 5A Division II state championship, and this year's Katy Tigers worked very hard to earn it. A special congratulations goes to running back Aundre Dean, who was named the game's offensive MVP.

Wal-Mart Honors
Hispanic Heritage
Month

Wal-Mart utilized local modeling talent for their current national campaign recognizing Hispanic Heritage. Andrea Monteverdi, a 6th grade student of Cinco Junior High School, was selected to appear in newspapers, magazines, and other materials.

BENTONVILLE, Ark., Sept. 13 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Wal-Mart will celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, at approximately 400 stores across the nation, incorporating Hispanic product features in categories such as food, home, toys, and health and beauty aids.

When greeted by Andrea's big smile and beautiful eyes, it is easy to understand why she was selected. Andrea, the daughter of a USA-born father and mother from Venezuela, is fluent (oral and written) in English and Spanish. She remarks "it is important to recognize that people come from many backgrounds and the United States is a country where we all come together as one. I have family in the U.S. and Latin America, and it is important to me that I can speak with them."

Congratulations Andrea and thanks for making Katy proud!!!

Once again our Katy Tigers were in the State's Class 5A finals. The game started in a scary manner, when we found ourselves trailing shortly after the start of the game. All that did was make us clench onto our seats tighter and scream louder for our Tigers!

Southlake Carroll was picked by many to easily beat the Tigers. Perhaps they believed it, but us who live in the Tiger's Den. We know what our players can do, and they showed everyone as they completed the 16-15 Class 5A Division II state championship win over Southlake Carroll on Saturday.

Read the Houston Chronicle story here

Katy Tigers,
Congratulations Champs!!!

Featured Issue: Computer Virus Alert

Warning...There continues to be a high number of computer viruses that are spreading rapidly. Many companies and many individuals have had their computer systems completely shutdown by it. There are some precautionary steps that you should take immediately, espeically if you or your business relies upon your computer systems and data:

1. Install virus checking software and keep it updated daily. Virus checking programs have updates that are available on their respective website. Each time they discover a new virus they update their program to prevent it, but your program won't prevent it if you don't stay current!
2. Do not open e-mail messages from anyone that you do not know - no matter what the message says. Common phrases are "Thank you", "Here is the file you asked for", "See the attached file for details", "Your e-mail password is about to expire", and many more that seem friendly or like something that is important to you.
3. Even if you know the person who sent you the e-mail, do not open it any attached files if you did not expect it or ask for it. They may have a virus and their computer automatically sent one to you in hopes that you will open it. Also realize that it is very easy to "impersonate" someone else in e-mail so that you will think that it came from one of your friends when it really came from someone else. There is one virus right now that is affecting many people that looks like it came from Microsoft, but it did not.
4. Backup your files regularly. Even if you are not concerned with viruses then you should be concerned that you computer may crash and lose you information. It happens frequently and is very sad if you can't restore the information.
5. If you are using Microsoft products then keep them updated regularly. Microsoft is notorious for having many vulnerabilities for hackers, so each time that one is discovered they make "patches" available. However, it your responsibility to check for them and install them onto your computer. If you are using Windows 2000 (any version), Windows XP, or Windows NT then you need to immediately update your system. There is a computer virus spreading at record speed that exposes some issues in those version of the Microsoft Operating Systems.
6. Don't be fooled by believing that viruses can only be received from e-mail. In April there was a virus that automatically discovered Microsoft SQL Servers and "infected" them. A current virus finds machines connected to the Internet even if they don't have e-mail running.

Taking the actions above should help you remain unaffected. If you are not comfortable installing one of these programs or need assistance then we recommend that you contact Green Mountain Software at 281-392-6067 immediately.

A Rock in Iowa

There is a huge rock near a gravel pit on Hwy. 25 in rural Iowa.

For generations, kids have painted slogans, names, and obscenities on this rock, changing it's character many times.

A few months back, the rock received it's latest paint job, and since then it has been left completely undisturbed.

It's quite an impressive sight. Click on the photo below and see for yourself.

See all of the photos (all angles) of the rock.

Thought about a Pool?

Have you thought about having a swimming pool installed in your backyard? If so then this is a good time to start planning so that you can have it installed by the time the weather changes.

When installing a pool you need to think about the placement in your yard, the surrounding landscaping, and also security. Remember that pets and children should always be supervised around a pool, so again your planning can be very beneficial in this area. There are nice decorative fences that can be installed to help prevent unauthorized entry, yet not detract from the looks of your pool.

Realizing that the installation of a pool can be expensive, we found a local pool company willing to offer residents substantial discounts. They offer in-ground swimming pools starting at less than $9,000.

This is the best time to negotiate your deal since the swimming season will be here soon. If you are interested then click here to see their coupon in our Katy Coupons section.

New Year's Resolution

If you are like many others then one of your New Year's resolution was probably to "stay in shape" or "get into shape". If one of your resolutions involves fitness then you should visit our KatyCoupons.com page where you will find some coupons from Excel Gym. They are conveniently located at Mason Road and Kingsland and have been serving Katy for many years. They offer a great facility and do not require any contracts so you don't have to worry about getting tricked into some long-term deal.

Print your coupons for Excel Gym and go enjoy a free week!

Toy Recall List

The government is urging those who got an early start on their holiday shopping to make sure that the items they purchased have not been recalled for safety reasons. The Consumer Product Safety Commission has a new website containing all of the government recalls.

There have been 1.5 million playpens recalled (like Evenflo, Century) and more than a dozen children have died as a result. Scooters, mini-bikes, Fisher-Price toys, and many more items are on the list, so please check to see if you have any items that should no longer be used and returned.

Click here to access the Recall List

The Westpark Toll Road
Groundbreaking

The new Toll Road project is about to begin, which should greatly reduce our traffic congestion once it is completed. The Westpark Toll Road will have four toll road lanes and four feeder road lanes along current FM 1093, from SH 99 (Grand Parkway) to Harris County Westpark Toll Road at FM 1464, continuing to US 59 at Loop 610.

The Groundbreaking Ceremony was on February 12th.

Early Dismissal

Please be aware of the early dismissal scheduled for Katy area schools this Friday, February 13.

Schools will also be out on Monday, which is February 16.

You need to make arrangements for babysitting if necessary. If possible this may be a good time to take off work and have a family vacation. There are many things to do in the area so take advantage of this opportunity!

Mary Kay Cosmetics

If you live in Katy or the surrounding areas are looking for Mary Kay Cosmetics then please check our Business section or Coupon section for savings. Kelly Gabriel has joined KatyCoupons.com and KatyInfo.com to bring Mary Kay Cosmetics to Katy area residents. She has the ability to deliver to your door, or can send items by delivery service if you prefer. Now you have a source in Katy for Mary Kay Cosmetics.

Katy Curfew for Under 17

Katy has a new curfew that affects those who are under the age of 17. The parents of those who violate this new curfew will be subject to fines up to $500.

The new curfew is as follows:
11:00 P.M. on Sunday - Thursday;
Midnight on Friday and Saturday;
9:00 A.M. - 2:30 P.M. for school-aged children on school days.

There are exceptions, such as for employment, school or church events, emergencies, etc.

Click here for more info

Golf Classic - March 1st

The Katy Charter Chapter of the ABWA is hosting the 2004 Scholarship Golf Classic on Monday, March 1st at the Willow Fork Country Club. The Katy Charter Chapter distributes all net proceeds from the tournament to Katy area students in the form of educational scholarships.

Please sign up as an individual or as a corporate sponsor. Have fun while helping the area children!

You may register for the tournament by mailing your check or money order to: Katy ABWA, c/o Marie Herridge, 2702 Fortuna Dr., Katy, TX 77493.

Click here for more information

See Mel Gibson's
"The Passion of Christ"
movie for free

Life Church is offering to take a limited number of Katy area residents to see the movie for free.

If you are interested then click here

Know Your Candidates
and vote on Tuesday

A significant portion of the Katy community is included in the new District 10 Congressional District. There are eight candidates running for this newly created district. We had a chance to meet all eight candidates on Monday.

It was a great way to meet those who want to represent us, as they had to answer questions. One of the questions was even related to their possible plans of establishing their headquarters in Katy if they are elected.

The Forum was well attended, showing that Katy residents and businesses do care and are interested in selecting someone they believe will represent them well.

Remember that you need to vote on Tuesday, March 8th!

Rodeo Time in Katy

It is once again rodeo time in Katy. To celebrate there will be a parade on Saturday beginning at 9:30 A.M.

There is no charge to participate in the parade. You simply need to show up at Rhodes Stadium at 8 A.M. to sign-up.

The parade will leave Rhodes Stadium, then go south on Katyland Drive. It will then go west on Highway Boulevard to Katy High School.

The theme this year is "I Wanna Be ... "

Prizes will be awarded in the categories of parade theme, comical, show cars, youth, civic organizations, adult, scouting groups, school groups, churches, youth organizations, dance and marching groups, bands, commercial and best-dressed cowboys and cowgirls.

Way to go, Renée

Congratulations to Renée Zellweger, our former Katy resident and gratulate from Katy High School. She won an Oscar for Actress in a Supporting Role. It was for the outstanding job she did in the movie Cold Mountain.

It is wonderful when one of our local people achieve something like this and helps to spotlight the fact that we can do whatever we want!

For more information about Renée's Oscar, click here

Katy Business Expo

If you have a business in Katy, or are interested in getting more information from those that are here, join us for the 4th Annual Katy Business EXPO

The EXPO is only one day, which will be Wednesday, April 7 from 10 AM to 5 PM. It takes place at the Katy Mills Mall. The businesses will be setup in various locations throughout the mall, and many will offer once-a-year specials.

As an attendee, the EXPO will present an opportunity to find out what types of businesses are located in the Katy area and learn what services they have to offer.

For more information e-mail info@katychamber.com or call 281-828-1100 and the Katy Chamber will be happy to assist you.

Texans Cheerleader Tryouts

The Houston Texans NFL team just had their Cheerleader tryouts for the upcoming 2004 season. Did you participate? If not then now is the time to start practicing and working out in prepartion for next year.

The ladies who become NFL Cheerleaders generally spend much of their lifetime practicing and cheering for schools. However, that should not limit you. If you have the right moves and love to cheer on a crowd, then you should try. Here are the requirements:

Requirements:
Must be 18 years of age by the time of tryouts (no exceptions).
Must be a high school graduate or have a G.E.D.
Must have a full-time job or be a full-time student.
Will need a current Photo (any size).
Valid ID will be required.

Click here to learn more

CRIME Alerts

A woman was the victim of a robbery at the HEB on Mason Road and Highland Knolls on Thursday (April 1) at approximately 4:00 PM. There were people around in their crowded parking lot, but it did not stop the criminals.

The woman was at her car, luckily with keys in hand, and only went in to pick up a prescription. When she was returning to her car a black Ford Expedition TX license plate number 4LHX45 with two black males drove up next to her. One of the suspects jumped out of the passenger side, pushed her and took her purse off of her shoulder! The woman was reportedly not seriously injured, but did suffer a minor injury.

Two black males have also been involved in similar incidents at Wal-Mart on Fry Road, and Target. They have each reported suspects matching the same description as well and same vehicle. They are in their late teens, early 20's.

Please notify your family, friends, and neighboors. Remind them to be very cautious, even in public places. Tell them to scream for help without hesitation.

If you see the suspect's vehicle please either call the Harris County Sheriff's Department or the Constable. A report has been filed under case number 0403301718.

If you have information and want to remain anonymous then please send us the details and we will report it on your behalf - click here

Lance Berkman Inspirational Field

Lance Berkman, star outfielder for the Houston Astros, will be honored during a dedication ceremony at Faith West Academy. The pre-game event will take place tomorrow, Friday, April 16, at 5:00 PM, followed by varsity and junior varsity games by our very own Faith West "Eagles." Cara Berkman, Lance's wife, will be on site to participate in the activities, and, Faith West is currently working with KTRH TV Station on a Satellite with Lance from Minute Maid Park. There will be free hot dogs and drinks available during the festivities for all those in attendance.

Faith West Academy's "Lance Berkman Inspirational Field" was constructed with the assistance of a $100,000 grant made in Lance Berkman's name by the Major League Baseball Trust. Lance selected Faith West Academy as the beneficiary of the grant, which was given to Lance for participating in the 2003 Big League Home Run Challenge.

Faith West Academy, 2225 Porter Road, Katy Texas 77493

Courtesy of Katy Chamber of Commerce

Income Tax Deadline

The annual deadline is here. Remember that you must file your federal income taxes by midnight of the 15th (Thursday), or else you must file an extension. The Post Office in downtown Houston will be open in case you need to make a late delivery and get the required date stamp!

You should have already collected your receipts and other records related to last year's income taxes. If not then you need to start. If you are like many people, the task of keeping up with the receipts is a hassel and often not done until the end of the year. Of course this means that you have a lot of work ahead putting them together and categorizing them properly to do your income taxes. Remember that you must file your income taxes by April 15.

Katy residents and Katy businesses who don't have the time to do your income taxes or the year-long book keeping, or if you simply prefer to have a professional do your taxes or bookkeeping for you, we have been able to find a Katy Bookkeeper and an Income Tax Service in Katy who will provide discounts to our Katy Coupons.com visitors. Click here if you are interested.

Freeway Construction

Although some have been inconvenienced by the freeway construction, we have polled many people and found that the general census is that the construction has been conducted in a very positive manner and has been less of a problem than people expected.

The crews who have been working on the freeway expansion project have progressed at a very rapid rate and have been able to keep most of the lanes open to traffic. When they have closed a section of the roadway they have opened other sections.

From our perspective we must compliment the work crews and those managing the project. We realize there will be times that we wish it was over and become frustrated, but please realize they are doing a wonderful job.

When driving in the constuction zones you should also be aware of the speed limits and increased fines. We have noticed several police in those areas with laser and radar. They are also catching people who are crossing medians instead of using the entrance and exit ramps...

Computer Virus Warning

There are many, many computer viruses that are sent by e-mail regularly. Understanding them and taking preventive measures will normally keep your computer safe.

The computer viruses are normally received by an e-mail. When you open an e-mail that contains a virus, it automatically and secretly installs itself into your computer. They then have access to do whatever they want, such as delete everything on your computer and send itself to everyone listed in your e-mail's address book. The messages it sends contain the virus, and since it sends itself to your friends using your name, they open it and then their computer gets the virus and does the same thing to them. So how do you prevent it?

• Install antivirus software
• Do not open files attached to e-mails unless you are expecting it, even if it is from your friend
• If you use Outlook to access your e-mail, do not turn on the Preview Pane option

Katy residents and businesses who need help to avoid computer viruses can click here for assistance

Mother's Day

Just a reminder...Mother's Day is almost here. If you want to enjoy the next holiday (Memorial Day at the end of the month) then don't forget Mom!

If you are married and have children, don't forget to get some gifts on the behalf of your children.

Mothers generally like flowers, so it is usually a good idea to purchase some along with another gift. If Mom says that she does not want a gift, get one anyway. You usually can't go wrong by getting something, but you can if you don't...

Children who are not yet old enough to get a gift don't need to buy a gift. Mom's love to get things that you make. It means a lot to them and they will probably like it more than anything that you could buy. Make a card, draw a picture or hearts on it, and tell her how much she means to you and how much you love her.

Mother's Day is this Sunday!!!

Jr. Home Run Derby

Katy Area Youth are encouraged to participate in the Katy area Jr. Home Run Derby. It is for ages 9-14. There will be fun and prizes! Winners qualify for State Jr. Home Run Derby Championship!!!

The date is May 16, 2004.

Location: Katy American Little League Fields (Morton Ranch Road and Katy Hockley Cutoff)

To register, contact Century 21 Western, 21945 Katy Freeway (corner of Mason Rd. and I-10) or call the KALL concession stand during games. You may contact Century 21 Western at 281.392.9272

All participants must be legal US Residents, provide proof of age and residence in the Katy area.

New Video Game Center

Mason Road Skate Center has added a fantastic gaming center. It is located within the skate center and has six big screen TV's. They have XBOX's and Play Stations ready to play solo or to compete against others. There are some Halo players that want to show their skills. If you want to have fun then go check it out. Skate for a while, play games for a while, do tricks on the ramps, and more. All at one place.

If you are going to use the Skate Park then you will need to sign release forms. To save time, get the forms here.

Mason Road Skate Center

Third Annual ComedySportz Houston High School League Tournament to be held at Taylor High School Performing Arts Center on Friday, May 28, 2004 at 8pm. Admission $5.

Participating High Schools include James E. Taylor, Katy, Cinco Ranch, Stratford, Spring Woods and Langham Creek. These six CSZ High School League teams from around the Houston area will showcase their talents and compete for the "Golden Cafeteria Tray Award". James E. Taylor High School has held the championship for the past two years. Come join in the fun as these students "battle it out" in improvisational games to obtain the title of champions for 2004!

BMW / Komen Foundation

Now in its eighth year, BMW's annual nationwide driving event raises money to benefit the Susan G. Komen Foundation by inviting people to drive specially painted pink ribbon BMWs at local dealerships. For every mile driven, BMW donates $1 to the Komen Foundation; thus raising more than $1 million annually. Additionally, local heroes have their photo and name added to the Ultimate Drive signature car, a new BMW X3, as part of the nationwide Drive.

Unique to this year's event is the participation of Stephanie Komen, Susan Komen's daughter, as the keynote speaker at the honoree appreciation breakfast on May 21. She also will kick-off the week-long driving event beginning at Momentum West on Saturday, May 22.

To schedule a reservation to drive one of the many BMW's that will be available, please call 1-877-4-A-DRIVE

Basketball 2-on-2 with
NBA Center Jake Voskuhl

Katy, Texas is privileged to have Jake Voskuhl conduct a basketball "Two on Two" tournament in town. Jake is a native of Katy and is currently the Center for the Phoenix Suns in the NBA. He is 6'11" weighing 245 lbs; born 11/01/77. His greatest basketball achievement is Starting Center for Connecticut team that won the 1999 NCAA championship.

The basketball Two on Two Tournament will be June 19th from 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Cinco Ranch Junior High. The cost of registration is $20. Deadline to register is June 12th.

Each participant will receive a t-shirt and there will be a trophy ceremony at the end.

Jake is just wanting to be a blessing to the kids in the Katy area. The cost simply recoups some of our expenses, but not all. Events like these show that Katy cares about the kids in our area.

When: June 19th, 1:30-5:30 p.m.
Where: Cinco Ranch Jr. High School
What: Two on Two Tournament
Ages Groups:

14 and under
15-17
Adult (18 and older)/ Child (14 and under)

R.A.D Class

The Harris County Sheriff's Department is offering a Rape Agression Defense course.

Classes will be held July 13, 14, 15, 20, 22 from 6-9 PM at American Kids Academy. Participants must attend all 5 sessions.

American Kids Academy is at:
3211-B North Fry Road
(between Clay and Morton)

For more details about what this excellent self-defense class offers or to reserve your space, contact Deputy Paul Brown at 281.647.9371.

Katy Real Estate

Katy real estate continues to be in demand. Our area is growing rapidly, and recently we have noticed many apartments in Katy.

The additional living options will help Katy continue to grow, as new companies look at items such as Katy Real Estate, cost of living, etc.

If you know if anyone who is considering a move into our area, tell them about Katy. Katy real estate prices are very attactive, and this is a great place to live. Have them check our Real Estate section to find a Realtor in Katy. Katy Realtors

Mosquito Spray Caution

Have you been at the store lately and noticed small bottles of mosquito spray near the registers that have 100% Deet? Deet is a chemical known to help keep mosquitos away, but you also need to be cautious since there are warnings that exposure to deet should only be for as long as necessary, plus you should not use too much.

Spray that contains high volumes of deet may not only be too much for your skin, but it will also dissolve ("eat") plastic and other materials, including the packaging that it come in if a little sprays inside of the package. It has also been known to eat through watch bands if sprayed on ones arms. So why is it sold with such high concentrations? For clothing primarily. Spray it on clothes before putting them on if you will be in an area where mosquitos are a problem, such as areas of Africa and India where malaria is prominent. For local use you are probably best served with deet percentages of 25% and less for children.

Memorial Park Update

As we reported approximately a year ago, there have been plans to remove most of the sports that are currently available at Memorial Park. The list would include soccer, tennis, baseball, softball, rugby, and others, leaving the jogging track, bike trails, and golf course.

Although Memorial Park is located with Houston, the park is used by many Katy residents on a very frequent basis. We posted the information pertaining to the proposed changes of the Memorial Park Master Plan, including a petition to oppose the removal, and the response was good.

The signatures were very helpful as The Citizens Alliance Against the Memorial Park Master Plan met with Houston City Council and Quality of Life committee. The result is that a new plan has been submitted which no longer calls for the removal of the sports amenities.

Click here for more information

Benefit Concert in
Memory of Sara Krauss

In remembrance of Sara Krauss, member of Katy Bengal Brigade Drill Team & Katy FFA.

This Sunday, Oct 3rd
Gates open at 12 noon
Live & Silent Auction 2-4 PM
Live Concert 4-6 PM: Patrick Murphy

Cajun Style BBQ & soft drinks will be sold as long as it lasts! (No alcohol)

Location: Good Ole Boys Cajun Catering & Market at the corner of I-10 and FM1463 (3 blocks south of Katy High School)

Admission (donation): $10 Adult, $5 Student. Please buy your tickets in advance!

All Profits will go to the family and towards a Scholarship fund in memory of Sara.

Lets Go Katy! Lets make this a huge success!!!

Contact Good Ole Boys at 281-391-4333 for more information

Junior Achievement

Junior Achievement volunteers are needed!

Junior Achievement is in need of volunteers for this Fall semester at Cinco Ranch High School, Mayde Creek High School, and Katy High School.

Contact Bill Land by phone at 281-396-2439 or by e-mail at Bill Land@katyisd.org if you can help.

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, petting zoo, train and more!

Katy Rice Harvest Festival Dates: October 9 - 10, 2004

Location: Historic Downtown Katy, Texas

Remaining Main Events

Don't miss this fun. It only happens once per year!

Katy Rice Harvest Festival

Did you get to visit the annual Katy Rice Harvest Festival? It was a lot of fun and the weather was ideal during the weekend. There were many individuals and families having a great time shopping, eating, and having the opportunity to meet others. There were three stages of continuous live entertainment, numerous craft boots, and food booths, a carnival, petting zoo, and more!

If you missed the festival this year then make sure to join participate next year.

Teddy Bear Parade

December 3rd will begin the festivities with a Teddy Bear Parade, open to children of all ages (visit www.katychamber.com to register), the annual community tree lighting in downtown Katy and the arrival of Santa, officially kicking-off the 2004 holiday season. Following the tree lighting, visitors will be invited to stroll through downtown Katy shops for a business open house while being serenaded by carolers, community spirit and holiday goodies.

Courtesy of Katy Chamber of Commerce

Sarbanes-Oxley Act

Are you familiar with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act? Many people think of it as the the Act to prevent future incidents of what happened at Enron. Compliance to this Act, also called "SOX" and "Sarbox", is required for all public US companies, but goes beyond that. For example, joint venture companies sponsored by one or more public companies are very likely forced to comply. The key test is whether or not their contribution is "material", which may be a judgement decision. Since the penalty for non-compliance is significant (fines and/or imprisonment), many companies are forcing Sarbanes-Oxley compliance even if not necessarily required.

Becoming compliant is not a trivial task. It is costly in terms of financial burden and human resources. Companies must identify their Control Objectives, then the associated Control Activities that occur to validate them. Many details should be addressed, such as the risk, criticality, mitigating processes and procedures, assertion types, and more.

Some companies don't feel they need to be compliant, but have been surprised when one or more of their customers have requested a Report on Controls such as a SAS 70. Not producing one had the potential to lose the customer. For example, consider a bank who sends their data tape backups off-site for protection. They should not do business with a company who is not able to become certified. Besides, would you want to do business with a bank that does not require their suppliers to have meet standards and have good practices? What about flying an airline that doesn't or establishing your home mortgage with a company that doesn't?

There are obviously a lot of requirements pertaining to Sarbanes-Oxley, so our goal is to make sure that Katy businesses are aware of the impact and taking action. Use this as a means to assure that your processes are fully documented, including your control benchmarks, objectives, and activities. Even if you are not required to become Sarbanes-Oxley certified, these are good organizations practices.

If you have questions or would like more information about Sarbanes-Oxley you can contact Green Mountain Software at 281-392-6067. They offer Sarbanes-Oxley software programs to help Houston, Katy, and other cities meet the Sarbanes-Oxley requirements.

Christmas and Santa

Christmas is fast approaching and Santa will soon be here. Children should have already created their Christmas lists, but if you haven't then it is not too late. You can leave it on your Christmas tree, give it to your parents to mail, give it to Santa's helpers at a mall, or click here to e-mail him.

There are many things to see and do in Katy and the surrounding areas. Here are some:

Northpole Fun Activities
NORAD Santa Tracker
Naughty or Nice List
Karaoke to Christmas Songs
Watch Santa at North Pole live
Watch Santa's House live

Send e-mail to Santa (click here)

Decorating for the Season

We all love the holidays. It is wonderful to drive around the Katy community and see the lights and decorations. Decorating for the season expresses our spirit and gives joy to others.

Decorating with Ana tells us that many people get nervous at this time of the year, expecially if they expect visitors. Decorating does not have to be difficult and should be fun. Here are some tips:

• Select a theme and the color of lights that you prefer and then stay consistent
  
• There are several types of mounting clips available to ease the process of installing lights on your gutters, roof eves, and along the yard. Get the ones that are best for your property - they are worth it.
• Placing small ornaments inside your house makes a big difference. Utilizing red and green is most common, and they can often be added to plants you may already have.
• Since you are adding some decorative items, you may need to temporarily remove some items to avoid a cluttered look.

If you have any questions or need assistance, we recommend that you contact Decorating with Ana directly. They can be reached at 713-582-0255.

Mardi Gras Time!

Each year, more than half a million people gather in the streets of Galveston Island to participate in the largest Mardi Gras celebration in Texas. For 12 days and 11 nights the island is electrified by the sounds of live music, spectacular parades, elaborate masked balls, and flamboyant costumes.

This year, Mardi Gras! Galveston salutes American patriotisim with "Mardi Gras! Galveston: Red, White, and Blue," January 28, 2005 thru Fat Tuesday, February 8, 2005

Click here for more info

The Katy Charter Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association will be hosting its 2004 Scholarship Golf Classic on Monday, March 1st in Katy. ABWA encourages all interested players to register early, as there are a limited number of spaces available.

The Katy Charter Chapter distributes all NET proceeds from the tournament to Katy area students in the form of educational scholarships. Scholarships are presented in June. Approximately $20,000 has been awarded in scholarships to Katy students during the first 3 years of the tournament.

You may register for the tournament by mailing your check or money order to: Katy ABWA, c/o Marie Herridge, 2702 Fortuna Dr., Katy, TX 77493. For more information, you may contact Ellen Caldwell-Ng at 832-643-1879 or via e-mail at caldwellng@earthlink.net.

Credit Card Caution

Keep a watch out for people standing near you in the checkout line at retail stores, restaurants, grocery stores, etc., who have a camera cell phone in hand. With the camera cell phones, they can take a picture of your credit card, which gives them your name, number, and expiration date. CBS reported this type of identification theft is one of the fastest growing scams today. Be aware of your surroundings when using your credit cards.

Golf Tournament

The Katy Charter Chapter of the American Business Women’s Association will be hosting its 2004 Scholarship Golf Classic on Monday, March 1st in Katy.

The Katy Charter Chapter distributes all NET proceeds from the tournament to Katy area students in the form of educational scholarships. Scholarships are presented in June. Approximately $20,000 has been awarded in scholarships to Katy students during the first 3 years of the tournament.

For more information contact Ellen Caldwell-Ng at 832-643-1879 or via e-mail at caldwellng@earthlink.net.

Graduation Time

It is time for the newest set of young ladies and men to complete their 12th year of school and make one of the biggest decisions of their lives. What next - more school or start a career? Hopefully most have already made that decision, utilizing assistance from their parents. For those who want to go to school, but feel they can't due to lack of finances, don't let that be an excuse. There are many, many grants available, but they generally won't come looking for you. You need to apply yourself and apply for them! Spending a few days now completing applications is only seconds of time compared to your lifetime. Some of the loans do not require payback so start applying now.

Whatever you do, Katy is proud of you!

Check Your Bill

After eating at a restaurant do you ever pay with a credit card? If so then do you verify the amount actually charged once you receive your monthly bill? You should. What you write on the charge slip may not be the actual amount keyed into their system, or your charge slip may get altered by the waitstaff. This happened to our staff by the Salt Grass Steakhouse. How did it happen...

After eating our staff member was presented the bill and credit card charge slip. A tip was added and the total written. Once the bill was received from the credit card company we noted a large discrepancy. We then requested a copy of the original charge slip and learned that the Salt Grass Steakhouse staff changed it to give themselves a tip of nearly 50%. Their management did not question the obvious changes. We got the overpayment returned by the credit card company and a poor response from Salt Grass Steakhouse.

Wondering how often this happens we checked with some other establishments. Learning that it happens fairly often, we found some places like Black Eyed Pea management have measures in place to prevent it, but many do not. They rely upon you to catch it. Bottom line, keep your receipts and verify them when the bill comes!