Waller County News Citizen - News
Calendar of events
Spiritual Renewal
A Spiritual Renewal opportunity for friends and family of the Hempstead community and surrounding areas will be held at Bethlehem United Methodist Church starting on Sunday, November 16 at 3 p.m. Guest speaker will be Rev. Fred Thomas III. On Monday, November 17 through Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 7 p.m. Guest speakers on Monday will be Rev. Michael Wolf; Tuesday, Nov. 18 will be Rev. Danny Wendt; Wednesday, Nov. 19 will be Minister Floyd Richards; and Thursday, Nov. 20 will be Rev. Jonnelle Hamack.
Prairie View TRTA
The Prairie View Retired Teachers and School Personnel Association Ann Preston Unit will hold its next meeting for 2008 -2009 on Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 1 p.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Episcopal Church Parish Hall located at 204 Dooley St. in Prairie View, Texas. We cordially invite all education and school personnel retirees to join us. Dinner will be served.
Hempstead Lion Fundraiser
The Hempstead Lions Club will be hosting a BBQ Baked Potato Fundraiser on Saturday November 15th at the RR Depot Pavilion in Hempstead. They will start serving at 10 a.m. until approx 2 p.m. or sold out. There will be a “drive thru” lane available. Stuffed Potatoes will be $ 5.00 and sausage on a stick $ 3.00. Please come out and support the Hempstead Lions Club.
Hempstead Garden Club
The Hempstead Garden Club will meet at 1 P.M. on Wednesday, November 19th at the home of Jo VanWinkle. Co-hostesses are Jo Hardy and Kim Hargrave. Fran Brounkowski will present the program.
Annual Fall Bake Sale & Luncheon
The First United Methodist Church of Waller will have their Annual Fall Bake Sale
& Soup Luncheon, November 21, 2008, at the Fellowship Hail , 1207 Farr Street.
The bake sale will be 9 am to 1 pm. Homemade soup & cornbread will be served
11 am to 1 pm. The cost w’-ill be $7.00 includes soup, cornbread, drink & dessert.
For more information call the church at 936 372 3907.
N O T I C E
The City of Hempstead will be flushing the water distribution system (fire hydrants) the week of November 10th-14th, 2008.
November Meeting
Please join the Village Republican Women for their monthly meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 19 at Vargo’s Restaurant, 2401 Fondren. Coffee is served at 9:30 and the meeting begins at 10:00 AM. Lunch is served after the meeting for a cost of $15.00. If you care to remain for lunch, you must call Iris Horton at 713-812-9393 to make a lunch reservation.
Souper-Salad
First United Methodist Church, corner of Seventh and Main in Hempstead, is having their Souper-Salad Luncheon from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 13. Cost is adults $7 and children $3. Drinks and dessert included. There will also be a Sweet Shop, Craft Shop and silent auction.
Fall Art Walk
Chappell Hill will showcase the remarkable talents of many local artists during the annual Chappell Hill Art Walk from 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15. Enjoy the self-guided tour of exhibits featuring paintings, sculpture, stained glass, wood creations, jewelry, photography and much more. Also included is the Rev. Johnnie Swearingen folk art collection. For more information, call the Chappell Hill Historical Society at (979) 836-6033 or visit www.chappellhillmuseum.org.
GENEALOGICAL SPEAKER
10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon Saturday, November 22.
Amegy Bank, 28201 SH 249 & Medical Complex Drive (Tomball); second floor meeting area.
Chaparral Genealogical Society is hosting genealogical author and lecturer Emily Croom. The topic of her presentation is “Seeing Is Not Always Believing: Avoiding False Assumptions” .
This event is open to the public free of charge, no reservations required.
Free Training
With immediate local job opportunities Texas State Technical College, in partnership with Orizon Industries, is providing all equipment and material for a 48-hour Basic Flux-Core Welding Training Course. You must be between the ages of 18 and 21 to qualify. Seating is limited and participants must be willing to work full-time after training.
Training schedule and location December 1st, 2008 and will end on December 6th. Training is from 8 a.m.–5 p.m. and location is at Orizon Industries, Inc. 7007 FM 362 (at FM 529) Possible employment opportunities with Orizon Industries, Inc., contingent on completion of course and other employment criteria.
To see if you qualify for a scholarship, and for more information and assistance, please call Workforce Solutions at 713-465-1677 and ask for a Financial Aide Specialist. For more information about Texas State Technical College, visit www.tstc.edu.
Teddy Bear Parade
Country homes beautifully decorated for the holidays, a Teddy Bear parade, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus will put you in the Christmas spirit when you visit Chappell Hill for the Holiday Home Tour and Teddy Bear Parade Saturday, Dec.13, from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. At 3 p.m., children can bring their favorite teddy bear to march in the Teddy Bear Parade. Stop by tour headquarters at the Rock Store in Downtown Chappell Hill to purchase tickets and a map for the tour. Tickets are $12 per person. Advance tickets can be purchased for $10 at the Chappell Hill Museum or by calling (979) 836-6033. For more information, call (979) 836-6033 or visit www.chappellhillmuseum.org.
Baseball Camp
Earl Hathaway’s 2008 Holiday Baseball Camp for youngsters ages 8 through 18 will be Dec. 22-23 at Brenham High School, 525 Ehrig Dr. in Brenham. The camp, offers quality instruction in the fundamentals of baseball and an opportunity for practice and drills. The camp is designed to ensure a 12 to 1 camper to coach ratio and attendance will be limited. Cost is $80. For more information call Hathaway at (979) 836-3437 after 6 p.m.
Ongoing Events
Domestic Violence
Family Violence has many forms: physical, verbal, and emotional. Domestic violence is about the control of one human being by another. Focusing Families offers free Domestic Violence support groups in Brenham on Wednesdays, 8:45-9:45 a.m.; Brookshire, Wednesdays, 12-1 p.m.; Bellville, Wednesdays, 2-3 p.m.; and Hempstead, Thursdays 10-11 a.m. All locations are confidential. Call Gloria for more information at (979) 826-0000.
Seniors Writing Group
A free Senior Citizens Writing Group has been organized at the Hockley Community Center. Come explore your writing skills each Monday from 1 to 3 p.m. Call (936) 931-5030 for information and to register.
Family Violence Support
A local, confidential, free support group for victims and survivors of domestic violence is available. Our mission is to enhance safety by strengthening individuals, families and communities one family at a time.
The support group meets at 5:30 p.m. every Tuesday and is facilitated by an advocate. For information, call (979) 826-0000 or 1-877-BE-SAFE-9.
Ladies Exercise Classes
Ladies Exercise Classes, open to the community, began Jan. 7 in the fellowship hall of First Baptist Church, 445 Main St. in Hempstead. The free classes offer a low impact, toning, strengthening, heart health, total body workout for all ages, all sizes, all fitness levels. Classes are Mondays at 9 a.m., Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m.and Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. The Bend and Stretch class at 9 a.m. Thursdays is great for balance, muscle and joint health, and range of motion. This class is geared toward senior adults but will be a great benefit to all ages. Bring a towel, your tennis shoes, a smile, and your friends.
HHS Offers Tutoring
Hempstead High School is continuing a tutoring program, the Texas Accelerated Science Achievement Program, this semester to help 11th grade students in science. HHS believes that the tutoring can equip students to be successful on the TAKS test. The program will meet every Monday through Thursday from 3:30 – 5 p.m. For more information call Scott Neumann at (979) 826-3331.
Free Classes
Focusing Families is providing free nutrition classes and parenting classes to victims of domestic violence and /or sexual assault. Nutrition classes are from 3 to 4 p.m. on Tuesdays. Parenting classes are from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Confidentiality will be kept as highest priority. For more information or to register for classes, call (979) 826-3290.
Community Outreach
The Hempstead Community Outreach meets the second Monday of each month at the different churches represented. The HCO has been helping needy families for many years with food donated by churches, businesses, organizations and individuals. They distribute toys and food baskets at Christmas and school supplies in May. For more information and location of next meeting, call Helen Panetti at (979) 826-6573.
Widows, Children
Starting Wednesday, Jan. 3, from 6 to 8 p.m. and continuing every first Wednesday of each month, Hospice Brenham presents the Widowed with Young Children grief support program for those who have experienced the death of a spouse. There is no cost to attend. Hospice provides refreshments and attendees are asked to bring a dish to share. It is held at the Brenham office at 302 East Blue Bell Rd. For more information call Debbie Mackey at (979) 277-9525.
Game Day
From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. the first Thursday of each month, Hospice Brenham presents Game Day; an informal grief support group for those who have experience the loss of a loved one. Attendees bring a brown bag lunch and meet to play cards, dominoes and board games. It is held at the Brenham office at 302 East Blue Bell Rd. For more information call Debbie Mackey at (979) 277-9525.
First Step
Starting Tuesday, Jan. 16, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and continuing every third Tuesday of each month, Hospice Brenham presents the First Step, a grief support program, for those who have experienced the death of a family member or friend. First Step is open to all and there is no cost. Hospice provides refreshments, attendees are asked to bring a dish to share. It is held at the Brenham office at 302 East Blue Bell Rd. For more information call Debbie Mackey at (979) 277-9525.
After School Program
The Katie S. Urban After School Program is open, without charge, for all children pre-K and above from 3 to 5 p.m. each Wednesday. The Katie S. Urban Community Center is at 14th and Austin streets in Hempstead.
Center Director Jennifer Vines welcomes the children for a supervised place to come after school on Wednesdays.
Children’s Story Hour
The Melanee Smith Memorial has “Story Hour” every Tuesday morning at 10 a.m. All children are welcome to come and listen to the stories. For more information, call (936) 372-3961.
Free Tutoring Classes
Free tutoring classes are being held at Bethlehem United Methodist Church at Wilkins and Eighth streets in Hempstead for children in grades pre-K through fifth-grade. Children will be assisted with homework and other weekly assignments in reading, writing and mathematics. Skills on developing healthy attitudes and attaining high self-esteem will be stressed. For more information, call (979) 826-3458 or (979) 826-0583.
Horse Council Meeting
The Waller County Horse Council meets at Ericks’s Mexican Restaurant at 7:30 p.m. the second Monday of each month. The meetings usually include a program on horse care. If you ride, breed, or just love horses, consider visiting us for an interesting evening. We want to bring all facets of the horse community together so we can have a unified voice. For more information, call (979) 826-9986.
Knights of Columbus
The regular meeting of the Knights of Columbus Council 12672 is at 7 p.m. the first and third Thursday of each month at the new KC hall, 22892 Mack Washington Lane in Hempstead.
Hempstead Lions Club
The Hempstead Lions Club meets the second Monday of each month at 5 p.m. at Howard Insurance Agency, 945 12th St., Hempstead.
A&M Club
The Waller County A&M Club meets at 6 p.m. the second Wednesday of every month at Repka’s on Buller Road between FM 529 and FM 1458. Go to www.repkas.com, email WallerCoAggies@aol.com or call 713-545-0955, for more information.
4-B EDC Meeting
The Prairie View 4-B Economic Development Board meets at 5:30 p.m. the first and third Thursdays of the month at the city hall on Business Highway 290. For more information, call Marie Herndon at (936) 857-5517.
GOP Women’s Meeting
The Republican Women of Waller County meet the third Tuesday of each month in the assembly room of the Waller County Courthouse in Hempstead. Social time is at 7 p.m. and the meetings begin at 7:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome. For more information, call Estella Smith at (979) 826-6413.
WC Fair Board
The Waller County Fair Association board of directors meets at 7:30 p.m. the third Tuesday of each month at the Barbara Carpenter Building at the fairgrounds on FM 359 at Hempstead.
Head Start
MET-Waller County Head Start is a free preschool program for children ages 3-5 and many services are available for the enrolled children and their families. Children with disabilities and families with low income are encouraged to apply. Meals are free for enrolled children. There is limited transportation available. All services are provided at no cost. All families are welcome to apply regardless of disability, race, religion of gender. For more information or to make an appointment, call (979) 826-4484.
Stretch and Tone
Free Stretch and Tone fitness classes are offered from 9:30 to 10 a.m. each Monday, Wednesday and Thursday at the Hockley Community Center. Call (936) 931-5030 for more information.
CoDa Meeting
Co-Dependents Anonymous is a 12-Step Fellowship of men and women whose common purpose is recovery from codependence and the development and maintenance of healthy relationships. Bellville’s CoDaa meeting will be at 8 p.m. Thursdays at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Learning Center, 936 So. Front St. For more information, call (979) 865-9560.
American Legion 459
The regular meeting of Waller County American Legion Post 459 is held monthly on the third Monday at 7 p.m. at the VFW hall at 1236 New Orleans. Prospective members are invited. For more information, call (979) 826-3868 or (281) 256-1801.
American Legion 929
American Legion Bosen Post 929 meets at 7 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month at 609 Hamilton St. at 11th Street in Hempstead. Business meetings are at 10 a.m. the first Saturday of each month at 1005 Hamilton St. at FM 1887, the east side of the Retirement Care Center.
VFW Post Meets
Waller County Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4007 meets the first Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the VFW hall at 1236 New Orleans. For more information, call David Sadowski at (979) 826-6484 or Paul Thornton at (979) 826-4602. For hall rental, call David at (979) 826-6484.
VFW Post 5121
The regular meeting of Hermon Sanford VFW Post 5121 is held monthly on the 2nd Monday at 7:30 p.m. at the Waller Masonic Lodge at Main and Locust (use side entrance). Prospective members are invited. For more information, go to www.wallervfw.org or call (936) 372-2930.
Free Computer Classes
Free Basic Computer Literacy Training classes, sponsored by Career and Recovery Resources, are being offered to people who have a need to learn to use a computer. The classes are from 9 a.m. to noon Tuesdays and Thursdays at the United Way Center, 531 FM 359 South in Brookshire. Pre-registration is required and can be done by calling Deborah or Alton at (281) 822-4210.
Watercolor Classes
Watercolor Classes for adults, taught by Mrs. Frankie Sprouse, are available at 1 p.m. each Wednesday at the Hockley Community Center. Call for a supply list and to register at (936) 931-5030.
Genealogy Society
The Waller County Genealogy Society meets at the Waller Masonic Lodge, 2106 Main St., across from the Melanie Smith Memorial Library, the third Saturday of each month at 10 a.m. The meetings are free, and visitors are welcome. Society membership is free; just fill out a form. For information, call Shannon Harris at 936-372-9115 or e-mail at shaharris@ev1.net.
Mobile Health Clinic
The Fort Bend Family Health Center Mobile Clinic has a weekly schedule in Waller County. The mobile clinic accepts Medicaid and Medicare. The mobile clinic is in Hempstead every Monday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Greater St. Peter’s Baptist Church. Every Tuesday and Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., the clinic is in Brookshire at the United Way Service Center. On Thursdays, the clinic is at Royal Elementary School from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and at Royal High School from 1 to 5 p.m. For more information, call (936) 261-1470.
Heroines of Jericho
Heroines of Jericho Prairie View Court 309 meets at 10 a.m. the second Saturday of each month at the Lone Star Lodge Hall, 311 7th St. in Hempstead.
Alzheimers Support
If you feel alone and that no one understands the disease called Alzheimer’s, consider joining the Hockley Caregivers Support Group that meets the second Thursday of each month at 1:30 p.m. Call the Hockley Community Center at (936) 931-5030 for information.
Youth Program
The W.O.R.D. program promotes and sustains spiritual and social outlets for community youths, offers Bible study, retreats, volunteer involvement, cultural enrichment activities, field trips and a home-cooked meal every Sunday. The group meets every Sunday at St. Francis of Assisi Episcopal Church in Prairie View. The free program is open for grades kindergarten through 12th. For additional information, you may call us at (936) 857-3272.
Drug Ministry
Mount Corinth Missionary Baptist Church, 806 Seventh St. at Highway 290 in Hempstead is sponsoring a drug ministry to help victims and their families deal with drug abuse. The meetings are at 7:30 p.m. the first and second Mondays of each month. For more information, call (936) 857-2217 or (979) 826-2544.
Bill Of Rights Club
The Texas Citizens’ Bill Of Rights Club meetis from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. the first and third Sundays of the month at 526 18th St. in Hempstead. The club focuses on the Texas and U.S. Constitutions and the penal code book. For more information, call Birdie Gails at (713) 417-0580.
Sewing Club
The Texas Family Heritage Sewing Club meets at 3 p.m. the first and third Saturdays of the month at 526 18th St. in Hempstead. Beginners through professional needleworkers are invited. The club focuses on sewing, knitting, crochet and tatting. For more information, call Birdie Gails at (713) 417-0580.
Heart-to-Heart
The Heart to Heart Support Ministry for persons and their families dealing with heart transplants, bypass surgery, pacemakers and other heart-related conditions; high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, physical inactivity, over-weight diabetes and tobacco use will be at 7:30 p.m. every fourth Wednesday. For more information, call (936) 857-9789.
Youth Center
The Katie S. Urban Community Youth Center is open free of charge for youths in Hempstead and the surrounding area. The children’s park is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day and the building is open from 3 to 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday. There is no charge for the use of athletic equipment, games or computers. Adult supervisors are on hand when the building is open.
Free GED Program
Career and Recovery Resources, Inc. is offering the Merit Software GED Prep Program at 531 FM 359 south in brookshire. Classes are Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.. The program is self-tutorial and the class is for one hour everyday for six weeks. Bring your “drop-out sheet” and if you are court-order, bring all necessary paperwork. For more information, call Deborah Tallman at (281) 822-4210.
Pine Island Commission
The Pine Island City Commission meets the first Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Pine Island Baptist Church.
County Commissioners
The Waller County Commissioners Court meets the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 9 a.m. in the commissioners courtroom on the second floor of the Waller County Courthouse in Hempstead.
Waller City Council
The Waller City Council meets the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at city hall.
Waller ISD
Waller Independent School District trustees meet the second Monday of each month at 6 p.m. in the board room of the WISD Administration Building, 2214 Waller St.
Prairie View City Council
The Prairie View City Council meets at 6 p.m. the fourth Tuesday of each month at the George Higgs Alumni Building, Business Highway 290 and University Drive in Prairie View.
Hempstead City Council
The Hempstead City Council meets at 6 p.m. the third Monday of each month at city hall.
Hempstead ISD
The Hempstead Independent School District board of trustees meets at 6 p.m. the third Monday of each month at the administration office at 524 Austin.
Hempstead Chamber
The Hempstead Chamber of Commerce meets at noon the third Tuesday of each month at 733 12th St.
Prairie View Chamber
The Prairie View Chamber of Commerce meets at 6:30 p.m. the last Thursday of each month at the Alumni Association building on University Drive.
Methodist Men
The Bethlehem United Methodist Church men’s breakfast/outreach program meets at 7:30 a.m. the second Saturday of each month in the church fellowship hall in Hempstead.
Sewing Guild
The Houston Chapter of the American Sewing Guild - Montgomery County Group - meets at 6:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of each month at the Tomball Community Center. ASG is open to anyone interested in sewing. For more information call (281) 252-6672.
Resale Shop
Boys and Girls Country Resale Shop, 21225 FM 2920 in Tomball, is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. the first and third Thursdays of the month. For more information, call Vicky Rudy at (281) 351-4976.
Military Support Group
A counseling group for families with loved ones serving in the military during this time of war is being formed by the United Way in Brookshire. If there is enough interest, Family Services of Houston will facilitate the group. For more information, call (281) 375-5110.
Open-Air Services
Everyone is invited to attend Open-Air Services to hear from God at 6:30 p.m. every Saturday (weather permitting) at 124 Calvit St. For more information, call Harold or Jeannie Manuel at (979) 826-8588.
Exchange Club
The Greater Katy Exchange Club meets from 6:30 to 8:15 p.m. the first Wednesday of each month at Azzarelli’s Italian Restaurant, 22764 Westheimer Parkway and Peek Road in Katy. 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 at (832) 216- 8524, or Newell Cheatheam at (281) 392-3034 or visit www.katyexchangeclub.com.
Texas Inmate Families
Families Helping Families - Texas Inmate Families Association, Conroe Chapter, meets the fourth Tuesday of each month from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Montgomery County Library, 104 I-45 north in Conroe. Anyone whose loved one is incarcerated in or is on parole from the Texas prison system is invited. The group addresses issues that inmate families face on a daily basis. This chapter was founded to assist the areas of North Houston/Harris County, Montgomery and surrounding counties. For more information, call Jane at (936) 228-0905 or Marlene at (936) 441-7503. Visit the group’s website at www.tifa.org.
A Spiritual Renewal opportunity for friends and family of the Hempstead community and surrounding areas will be held at Bethlehem United Methodist Church starting on Sunday, November 16 at 3 p.m. Guest speaker will be Rev. Fred Thomas III. On Monday, November 17 through Thursday, November 20, 2008 at 7 p.m. Guest speakers on Monday will be Rev. Michael Wolf; Tuesday, Nov. 18 will be Rev. Danny Wendt; Wednesday, Nov. 19 will be Minister Floyd Richards; and Thursday, Nov. 20 will be Rev. Jonnelle Hamack.
Prairie View TRTA
The Prairie View Retired Teachers and School Personnel Association Ann Preston Unit will hold its next meeting for 2008 -2009 on Wednesday, November 19, 2008 at 1 p.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Episcopal Church Parish Hall located at 204 Dooley St. in Prairie View, Texas. We cordially invite all education and school personnel retirees to join us. Dinner will be served.
Hempstead Lion Fundraiser
The Hempstead Lions Club will be hosting a BBQ Baked Potato Fundraiser on Saturday November 15th at the RR Depot Pavilion in Hempstead. They will start serving at 10 a.m. until approx 2 p.m. or sold out. There will be a “drive thru” lane available. Stuffed Potatoes will be $ 5.00 and sausage on a stick $ 3.00. Please come out and support the Hempstead Lions Club.
Hempstead Garden Club
The Hempstead Garden Club will meet at 1 P.M. on Wednesday, November 19th at the home of Jo VanWinkle. Co-hostesses are Jo Hardy and Kim Hargrave. Fran Brounkowski will present the program.
Annual Fall Bake Sale & Luncheon
The First United Methodist Church of Waller will have their Annual Fall Bake Sale
& Soup Luncheon, November 21, 2008, at the Fellowship Hail , 1207 Farr Street.
The bake sale will be 9 am to 1 pm. Homemade soup & cornbread will be served
11 am to 1 pm. The cost w’-ill be $7.00 includes soup, cornbread, drink & dessert.
For more information call the church at 936 372 3907.
N O T I C E
The City of Hempstead will be flushing the water distribution system (fire hydrants) the week of November 10th-14th, 2008.
November Meeting
Please join the Village Republican Women for their monthly meeting on Wednesday, Nov. 19 at Vargo’s Restaurant, 2401 Fondren. Coffee is served at 9:30 and the meeting begins at 10:00 AM. Lunch is served after the meeting for a cost of $15.00. If you care to remain for lunch, you must call Iris Horton at 713-812-9393 to make a lunch reservation.
Souper-Salad
First United Methodist Church, corner of Seventh and Main in Hempstead, is having their Souper-Salad Luncheon from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 13. Cost is adults $7 and children $3. Drinks and dessert included. There will also be a Sweet Shop, Craft Shop and silent auction.
Fall Art Walk
Chappell Hill will showcase the remarkable talents of many local artists during the annual Chappell Hill Art Walk from 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 15. Enjoy the self-guided tour of exhibits featuring paintings, sculpture, stained glass, wood creations, jewelry, photography and much more. Also included is the Rev. Johnnie Swearingen folk art collection. For more information, call the Chappell Hill Historical Society at (979) 836-6033 or visit www.chappellhillmuseum.org.
GENEALOGICAL SPEAKER
10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon Saturday, November 22.
Amegy Bank, 28201 SH 249 & Medical Complex Drive (Tomball); second floor meeting area.
Chaparral Genealogical Society is hosting genealogical author and lecturer Emily Croom. The topic of her presentation is “Seeing Is Not Always Believing: Avoiding False Assumptions” .
This event is open to the public free of charge, no reservations required.
Free Training
With immediate local job opportunities Texas State Technical College, in partnership with Orizon Industries, is providing all equipment and material for a 48-hour Basic Flux-Core Welding Training Course. You must be between the ages of 18 and 21 to qualify. Seating is limited and participants must be willing to work full-time after training.
Training schedule and location December 1st, 2008 and will end on December 6th. Training is from 8 a.m.–5 p.m. and location is at Orizon Industries, Inc. 7007 FM 362 (at FM 529) Possible employment opportunities with Orizon Industries, Inc., contingent on completion of course and other employment criteria.
To see if you qualify for a scholarship, and for more information and assistance, please call Workforce Solutions at 713-465-1677 and ask for a Financial Aide Specialist. For more information about Texas State Technical College, visit www.tstc.edu.
Teddy Bear Parade
Country homes beautifully decorated for the holidays, a Teddy Bear parade, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus will put you in the Christmas spirit when you visit Chappell Hill for the Holiday Home Tour and Teddy Bear Parade Saturday, Dec.13, from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. At 3 p.m., children can bring their favorite teddy bear to march in the Teddy Bear Parade. Stop by tour headquarters at the Rock Store in Downtown Chappell Hill to purchase tickets and a map for the tour. Tickets are $12 per person. Advance tickets can be purchased for $10 at the Chappell Hill Museum or by calling (979) 836-6033. For more information, call (979) 836-6033 or visit www.chappellhillmuseum.org.
Baseball Camp
Earl Hathaway’s 2008 Holiday Baseball Camp for youngsters ages 8 through 18 will be Dec. 22-23 at Brenham High School, 525 Ehrig Dr. in Brenham. The camp, offers quality instruction in the fundamentals of baseball and an opportunity for practice and drills. The camp is designed to ensure a 12 to 1 camper to coach ratio and attendance will be limited. Cost is $80. For more information call Hathaway at (979) 836-3437 after 6 p.m.
Ongoing Events
Domestic Violence
Family Violence has many forms: physical, verbal, and emotional. Domestic violence is about the control of one human being by another. Focusing Families offers free Domestic Violence support groups in Brenham on Wednesdays, 8:45-9:45 a.m.; Brookshire, Wednesdays, 12-1 p.m.; Bellville, Wednesdays, 2-3 p.m.; and Hempstead, Thursdays 10-11 a.m. All locations are confidential. Call Gloria for more information at (979) 826-0000.
Seniors Writing Group
A free Senior Citizens Writing Group has been organized at the Hockley Community Center. Come explore your writing skills each Monday from 1 to 3 p.m. Call (936) 931-5030 for information and to register.
Family Violence Support
A local, confidential, free support group for victims and survivors of domestic violence is available. Our mission is to enhance safety by strengthening individuals, families and communities one family at a time.
The support group meets at 5:30 p.m. every Tuesday and is facilitated by an advocate. For information, call (979) 826-0000 or 1-877-BE-SAFE-9.
Ladies Exercise Classes
Ladies Exercise Classes, open to the community, began Jan. 7 in the fellowship hall of First Baptist Church, 445 Main St. in Hempstead. The free classes offer a low impact, toning, strengthening, heart health, total body workout for all ages, all sizes, all fitness levels. Classes are Mondays at 9 a.m., Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m.and Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. The Bend and Stretch class at 9 a.m. Thursdays is great for balance, muscle and joint health, and range of motion. This class is geared toward senior adults but will be a great benefit to all ages. Bring a towel, your tennis shoes, a smile, and your friends.
HHS Offers Tutoring
Hempstead High School is continuing a tutoring program, the Texas Accelerated Science Achievement Program, this semester to help 11th grade students in science. HHS believes that the tutoring can equip students to be successful on the TAKS test. The program will meet every Monday through Thursday from 3:30 – 5 p.m. For more information call Scott Neumann at (979) 826-3331.
Free Classes
Focusing Families is providing free nutrition classes and parenting classes to victims of domestic violence and /or sexual assault. Nutrition classes are from 3 to 4 p.m. on Tuesdays. Parenting classes are from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Confidentiality will be kept as highest priority. For more information or to register for classes, call (979) 826-3290.
Community Outreach
The Hempstead Community Outreach meets the second Monday of each month at the different churches represented. The HCO has been helping needy families for many years with food donated by churches, businesses, organizations and individuals. They distribute toys and food baskets at Christmas and school supplies in May. For more information and location of next meeting, call Helen Panetti at (979) 826-6573.
Widows, Children
Starting Wednesday, Jan. 3, from 6 to 8 p.m. and continuing every first Wednesday of each month, Hospice Brenham presents the Widowed with Young Children grief support program for those who have experienced the death of a spouse. There is no cost to attend. Hospice provides refreshments and attendees are asked to bring a dish to share. It is held at the Brenham office at 302 East Blue Bell Rd. For more information call Debbie Mackey at (979) 277-9525.
Game Day
From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. the first Thursday of each month, Hospice Brenham presents Game Day; an informal grief support group for those who have experience the loss of a loved one. Attendees bring a brown bag lunch and meet to play cards, dominoes and board games. It is held at the Brenham office at 302 East Blue Bell Rd. For more information call Debbie Mackey at (979) 277-9525.
First Step
Starting Tuesday, Jan. 16, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and continuing every third Tuesday of each month, Hospice Brenham presents the First Step, a grief support program, for those who have experienced the death of a family member or friend. First Step is open to all and there is no cost. Hospice provides refreshments, attendees are asked to bring a dish to share. It is held at the Brenham office at 302 East Blue Bell Rd. For more information call Debbie Mackey at (979) 277-9525.
After School Program
The Katie S. Urban After School Program is open, without charge, for all children pre-K and above from 3 to 5 p.m. each Wednesday. The Katie S. Urban Community Center is at 14th and Austin streets in Hempstead.
Center Director Jennifer Vines welcomes the children for a supervised place to come after school on Wednesdays.
Children’s Story Hour
The Melanee Smith Memorial has “Story Hour” every Tuesday morning at 10 a.m. All children are welcome to come and listen to the stories. For more information, call (936) 372-3961.
Free Tutoring Classes
Free tutoring classes are being held at Bethlehem United Methodist Church at Wilkins and Eighth streets in Hempstead for children in grades pre-K through fifth-grade. Children will be assisted with homework and other weekly assignments in reading, writing and mathematics. Skills on developing healthy attitudes and attaining high self-esteem will be stressed. For more information, call (979) 826-3458 or (979) 826-0583.
Horse Council Meeting
The Waller County Horse Council meets at Ericks’s Mexican Restaurant at 7:30 p.m. the second Monday of each month. The meetings usually include a program on horse care. If you ride, breed, or just love horses, consider visiting us for an interesting evening. We want to bring all facets of the horse community together so we can have a unified voice. For more information, call (979) 826-9986.
Knights of Columbus
The regular meeting of the Knights of Columbus Council 12672 is at 7 p.m. the first and third Thursday of each month at the new KC hall, 22892 Mack Washington Lane in Hempstead.
Hempstead Lions Club
The Hempstead Lions Club meets the second Monday of each month at 5 p.m. at Howard Insurance Agency, 945 12th St., Hempstead.
A&M Club
The Waller County A&M Club meets at 6 p.m. the second Wednesday of every month at Repka’s on Buller Road between FM 529 and FM 1458. Go to www.repkas.com, email WallerCoAggies@aol.com or call 713-545-0955, for more information.
4-B EDC Meeting
The Prairie View 4-B Economic Development Board meets at 5:30 p.m. the first and third Thursdays of the month at the city hall on Business Highway 290. For more information, call Marie Herndon at (936) 857-5517.
GOP Women’s Meeting
The Republican Women of Waller County meet the third Tuesday of each month in the assembly room of the Waller County Courthouse in Hempstead. Social time is at 7 p.m. and the meetings begin at 7:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome. For more information, call Estella Smith at (979) 826-6413.
WC Fair Board
The Waller County Fair Association board of directors meets at 7:30 p.m. the third Tuesday of each month at the Barbara Carpenter Building at the fairgrounds on FM 359 at Hempstead.
Head Start
MET-Waller County Head Start is a free preschool program for children ages 3-5 and many services are available for the enrolled children and their families. Children with disabilities and families with low income are encouraged to apply. Meals are free for enrolled children. There is limited transportation available. All services are provided at no cost. All families are welcome to apply regardless of disability, race, religion of gender. For more information or to make an appointment, call (979) 826-4484.
Stretch and Tone
Free Stretch and Tone fitness classes are offered from 9:30 to 10 a.m. each Monday, Wednesday and Thursday at the Hockley Community Center. Call (936) 931-5030 for more information.
CoDa Meeting
Co-Dependents Anonymous is a 12-Step Fellowship of men and women whose common purpose is recovery from codependence and the development and maintenance of healthy relationships. Bellville’s CoDaa meeting will be at 8 p.m. Thursdays at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Learning Center, 936 So. Front St. For more information, call (979) 865-9560.
American Legion 459
The regular meeting of Waller County American Legion Post 459 is held monthly on the third Monday at 7 p.m. at the VFW hall at 1236 New Orleans. Prospective members are invited. For more information, call (979) 826-3868 or (281) 256-1801.
American Legion 929
American Legion Bosen Post 929 meets at 7 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month at 609 Hamilton St. at 11th Street in Hempstead. Business meetings are at 10 a.m. the first Saturday of each month at 1005 Hamilton St. at FM 1887, the east side of the Retirement Care Center.
VFW Post Meets
Waller County Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 4007 meets the first Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the VFW hall at 1236 New Orleans. For more information, call David Sadowski at (979) 826-6484 or Paul Thornton at (979) 826-4602. For hall rental, call David at (979) 826-6484.
VFW Post 5121
The regular meeting of Hermon Sanford VFW Post 5121 is held monthly on the 2nd Monday at 7:30 p.m. at the Waller Masonic Lodge at Main and Locust (use side entrance). Prospective members are invited. For more information, go to www.wallervfw.org or call (936) 372-2930.
Free Computer Classes
Free Basic Computer Literacy Training classes, sponsored by Career and Recovery Resources, are being offered to people who have a need to learn to use a computer. The classes are from 9 a.m. to noon Tuesdays and Thursdays at the United Way Center, 531 FM 359 South in Brookshire. Pre-registration is required and can be done by calling Deborah or Alton at (281) 822-4210.
Watercolor Classes
Watercolor Classes for adults, taught by Mrs. Frankie Sprouse, are available at 1 p.m. each Wednesday at the Hockley Community Center. Call for a supply list and to register at (936) 931-5030.
Genealogy Society
The Waller County Genealogy Society meets at the Waller Masonic Lodge, 2106 Main St., across from the Melanie Smith Memorial Library, the third Saturday of each month at 10 a.m. The meetings are free, and visitors are welcome. Society membership is free; just fill out a form. For information, call Shannon Harris at 936-372-9115 or e-mail at shaharris@ev1.net.
Mobile Health Clinic
The Fort Bend Family Health Center Mobile Clinic has a weekly schedule in Waller County. The mobile clinic accepts Medicaid and Medicare. The mobile clinic is in Hempstead every Monday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Greater St. Peter’s Baptist Church. Every Tuesday and Thursday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., the clinic is in Brookshire at the United Way Service Center. On Thursdays, the clinic is at Royal Elementary School from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and at Royal High School from 1 to 5 p.m. For more information, call (936) 261-1470.
Heroines of Jericho
Heroines of Jericho Prairie View Court 309 meets at 10 a.m. the second Saturday of each month at the Lone Star Lodge Hall, 311 7th St. in Hempstead.
Alzheimers Support
If you feel alone and that no one understands the disease called Alzheimer’s, consider joining the Hockley Caregivers Support Group that meets the second Thursday of each month at 1:30 p.m. Call the Hockley Community Center at (936) 931-5030 for information.
Youth Program
The W.O.R.D. program promotes and sustains spiritual and social outlets for community youths, offers Bible study, retreats, volunteer involvement, cultural enrichment activities, field trips and a home-cooked meal every Sunday. The group meets every Sunday at St. Francis of Assisi Episcopal Church in Prairie View. The free program is open for grades kindergarten through 12th. For additional information, you may call us at (936) 857-3272.
Drug Ministry
Mount Corinth Missionary Baptist Church, 806 Seventh St. at Highway 290 in Hempstead is sponsoring a drug ministry to help victims and their families deal with drug abuse. The meetings are at 7:30 p.m. the first and second Mondays of each month. For more information, call (936) 857-2217 or (979) 826-2544.
Bill Of Rights Club
The Texas Citizens’ Bill Of Rights Club meetis from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. the first and third Sundays of the month at 526 18th St. in Hempstead. The club focuses on the Texas and U.S. Constitutions and the penal code book. For more information, call Birdie Gails at (713) 417-0580.
Sewing Club
The Texas Family Heritage Sewing Club meets at 3 p.m. the first and third Saturdays of the month at 526 18th St. in Hempstead. Beginners through professional needleworkers are invited. The club focuses on sewing, knitting, crochet and tatting. For more information, call Birdie Gails at (713) 417-0580.
Heart-to-Heart
The Heart to Heart Support Ministry for persons and their families dealing with heart transplants, bypass surgery, pacemakers and other heart-related conditions; high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, physical inactivity, over-weight diabetes and tobacco use will be at 7:30 p.m. every fourth Wednesday. For more information, call (936) 857-9789.
Youth Center
The Katie S. Urban Community Youth Center is open free of charge for youths in Hempstead and the surrounding area. The children’s park is open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day and the building is open from 3 to 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday. There is no charge for the use of athletic equipment, games or computers. Adult supervisors are on hand when the building is open.
Free GED Program
Career and Recovery Resources, Inc. is offering the Merit Software GED Prep Program at 531 FM 359 south in brookshire. Classes are Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.. The program is self-tutorial and the class is for one hour everyday for six weeks. Bring your “drop-out sheet” and if you are court-order, bring all necessary paperwork. For more information, call Deborah Tallman at (281) 822-4210.
Pine Island Commission
The Pine Island City Commission meets the first Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Pine Island Baptist Church.
County Commissioners
The Waller County Commissioners Court meets the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 9 a.m. in the commissioners courtroom on the second floor of the Waller County Courthouse in Hempstead.
Waller City Council
The Waller City Council meets the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at city hall.
Waller ISD
Waller Independent School District trustees meet the second Monday of each month at 6 p.m. in the board room of the WISD Administration Building, 2214 Waller St.
Prairie View City Council
The Prairie View City Council meets at 6 p.m. the fourth Tuesday of each month at the George Higgs Alumni Building, Business Highway 290 and University Drive in Prairie View.
Hempstead City Council
The Hempstead City Council meets at 6 p.m. the third Monday of each month at city hall.
Hempstead ISD
The Hempstead Independent School District board of trustees meets at 6 p.m. the third Monday of each month at the administration office at 524 Austin.
Hempstead Chamber
The Hempstead Chamber of Commerce meets at noon the third Tuesday of each month at 733 12th St.
Prairie View Chamber
The Prairie View Chamber of Commerce meets at 6:30 p.m. the last Thursday of each month at the Alumni Association building on University Drive.
Methodist Men
The Bethlehem United Methodist Church men’s breakfast/outreach program meets at 7:30 a.m. the second Saturday of each month in the church fellowship hall in Hempstead.
Sewing Guild
The Houston Chapter of the American Sewing Guild - Montgomery County Group - meets at 6:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of each month at the Tomball Community Center. ASG is open to anyone interested in sewing. For more information call (281) 252-6672.
Resale Shop
Boys and Girls Country Resale Shop, 21225 FM 2920 in Tomball, is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. the first and third Thursdays of the month. For more information, call Vicky Rudy at (281) 351-4976.
Military Support Group
A counseling group for families with loved ones serving in the military during this time of war is being formed by the United Way in Brookshire. If there is enough interest, Family Services of Houston will facilitate the group. For more information, call (281) 375-5110.
Open-Air Services
Everyone is invited to attend Open-Air Services to hear from God at 6:30 p.m. every Saturday (weather permitting) at 124 Calvit St. For more information, call Harold or Jeannie Manuel at (979) 826-8588.
Exchange Club
The Greater Katy Exchange Club meets from 6:30 to 8:15 p.m. the first Wednesday of each month at Azzarelli’s Italian Restaurant, 22764 Westheimer Parkway and Peek Road in Katy. 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 at (832) 216- 8524, or Newell Cheatheam at (281) 392-3034 or visit www.katyexchangeclub.com.
Texas Inmate Families
Families Helping Families - Texas Inmate Families Association, Conroe Chapter, meets the fourth Tuesday of each month from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Montgomery County Library, 104 I-45 north in Conroe. Anyone whose loved one is incarcerated in or is on parole from the Texas prison system is invited. The group addresses issues that inmate families face on a daily basis. This chapter was founded to assist the areas of North Houston/Harris County, Montgomery and surrounding counties. For more information, call Jane at (936) 228-0905 or Marlene at (936) 441-7503. Visit the group’s website at www.tifa.org.
Copyright © 2009 - Houston Community Newspapers Online