Articles

In the spirit of transparency and community harmony, the proposal to convert tennis court 6 into pickleball courts, a subject of much discussion, was the key agenda item. We strongly encourage all residents to act respectfully and participate in the upcoming HOA elections; your vote is vital to ensure community voices are heard. Beyond voting, volunteering your time and skills is another powerful way to make a positive impact on our community.  Let's engage constructively, rather than criticize.

Nonetheless, the proposal to convert court 6 sparked significant debate for the last 18 months, though it's important to note that most residents aren't opposed to pickleball itself.

Local Residents: Instead, residents wanted to be heard during the decision-making process. Those living near the tennis center shared their experiences with noise. They mentioned the typical pickleball sounds – the "clinking and clanking" of the ball against the paddle and concrete – but also complained about player noise and music. Apparently, pickleball is a social sport, which sometimes leads to loud laughter and comments, both appropriate and inappropriate. This kind of noise is similar to complaints we've heard from people living near parks and recreation areas.

Tennis Community: Coles Crossing has a strong tennis community that takes part in league play. They're proud of their courts' condition, and they value good behavior and etiquette, just like at public tennis and golf facilities. If you're interested in playing tennis, reach out to the courts committee chair, a tennis instructor, or a league captain. You can also just go play a casual game with friends.

Young Residents: I've met quite a few younger residents, college-age and below, who enjoy playing pickleball. Most of them have been polite and followed my requests to stop playing after 10 PM or turn off the music, which isn't allowed on the courts. Unfortunately, they often miss our community communications. We're asking homeowners to help spread the word about the rules and the importance of respecting nearby residents.

Pickleball Players: We also have homeowners who play pickleball regularly. If you want to join them, just show up and have fun. Some players have even offered to teach newcomers.

Respect: Our main request is that everyone involved in both sports respect each other and the court rules. This will help maintain a peaceful environment for the residents living near the tennis center. Whether you emailed the board, posted on Facebook, or attended a meeting, the board heard your concerns. While board members may not always agree on everything, we strive to be respectful of each other. Just like in local or national elections, your vote is a powerful way to make your voice 

A resident asked recently, "How can my voice be heard, if I can only speak for two minutes at a board meeting? One way is through voting.  Another is talking with your directors and chairpersons. Let them know how you feel. A former volunteer came and said she represents a silent majority. Maybe create a block captain for your street. This message is not to create controversy or vote directors out of office. It is an answer on How can my voice be heard?

Did you take the last couple of months off from your exercise routine? The intermittent bouts with cold and nasty weather, limiting your outdoor activities, the “other” things to do(getting ready for Thanksgiving company or travel, shopping an decorating for the holidays.

 

We have all done it. Our yards show it too as we don’t plant new flowers after the frost kills them. “We are going to wait until it is warmer”.

 

Well, we have reached that time.  I know it has still been in the 40”s here and there, but the sun is starting to shine and there are days when we can do things outside. Below are some simple healthy tips as you start back into your fitness routines in 2025. They will all be, “I know that” tips, but never hurts to revisit them. And, as always in our articles, these are tips to help lead you back into fitness, not prescribed by the medical profession.  In the beginning of your workout routine or anywhere along the way, checking in with your doctor to be sure all systems are go, is always the best choice.

1)      Underestimate your abilities in your chosen activity. Don’t start where you left off in mid- November, right before the holidays. You are not as strong or as flexible or in tune with the actions of your sport, whether it is running, lifting or tennis.

2)      Walk it out.  If you are just starting as a new years resolution, start with low amounts of time or low amounts of weight and build each week. Give yourself 4-8 weeks to get back to where you were in the fall or make the progress you have set goals for.  

3)      Stretch- Have a stretching routine and stick with it. Depending on what you are doing, be sure to include the muscles and joints you are using and try to always include core stretching. Your back is doing a lot of work in any activity. 

4)      Keep expectations real.  You can certainly regain your level of performance in time, but don’t push to early to get there and pull a muscle or hurt a knee or shoulder. Then, you are out again.   

And, while you are resetting your activity schedule and if you are sore or tight, pay attention to the feelings your body is telling you. Adhere to the RICE method.

REST-rest your muscles or joints after doing what you do. Lifting weights is the best example, research has told us, you lift 3-4 times a week maximum and do different exercises on different days, allowing the muscle group to regenerate. All of us need to get the prescribed amount of rest(sleep) daily as that is one of the main factors in good health

ICE-use ice on sore muscles. Right after workouts, use ice to keep swelling down if you have a sore muscle or inflamed joint from your activity. 

COMPRESS-wrap your sore area with an elastic bandage. Wrap it loose enough at the top to be sure blood can flow to your area of concern.  

ELEVATE-keep your insured or sore area elevated above your heart or as high as you can. This keeps the area from pounding as your heart beats.                                                                                                  

And as always, if soreness and pain persist, visit your doctor to review what you need to do.   Good luck this spring getting back into the groove.

Community safety is a top priority. While we enjoy a safe neighborhood, it's always wise to remain aware and proactive. Our communication team, in collaboration with our community officer, has compiled valuable safety tips. Click below to access these resources and learn how to enhance your personal and home security.  Below are a few tips to stay safe and aware of your surroundings: 

 

Making a trip to the bank or store – make sure you are not followed home.  If you think you are being followed, go to a nearby manned fire station, police station or call 911.

 

Walking or Jogging – Too often headphones and ear buds are blocking a critical sense.  Awareness includes our ability to hear other people approaching from behind.  If you wear headphones/earbuds while out and about, use only one side so you can hear approaching people and bikes.  If you walk or jog at night, be sure to wear light colored reflective clothing.

 

Bike riders – please alert walkers when you are approaching from behind.  A simple shout out – “on your left or on your right” helps keep us all safe.

 

Where do you keep your automobile key fob?  Technology now exists that criminals are using to boost your key fob signal and steal your car.  Certain makes and models are more vulnerable than others.  To be on the safe side, when you are at home, keep your key fobs away from windows and doors and preferably in an interior room.

 

Always keep your doors and windows locked and use your home alarm.  Remember if your alarm system is monitored and the monitoring service calls the police or fire departments, the system must be registered with the Harris County Sheriff's Office. Copy and paste in your search engine: https://www.hcsolarmpermit.com/

 

Spring Cleaning – Pay extra attention when using ladders.  Ladder falls and subsequent injuries result in untold trips to the emergency room.  Before use make sure the ladder is stable.  Wearing proper footwear to avoid slipping, both on ladders and in general, is also critical to avoiding accidents.

 

As a key player in maintaining our neighborhood, Crest Management ensures that our community remains a desirable and well-kept place to live. We sat down with them to discuss their role and how they support homeowners.

 

Q: What are the primary responsibilities of Crest Management in our community?
A: We handle the day-to-day operations of the community association under the direction of the homeowner-elected Board of Directors. This includes financial management, processing vendor payments, collecting assessments, and producing monthly financial reports for the Board. Additionally, we coordinate maintenance for common areas, dispatch contractors for repairs, and manage bids for larger projects. Our onsite staff also assists residents with clubhouse reservations, access devices, and general inquiries about the community.

 

Q: How does Crest Management contribute to maintaining property values within the subdivision?
A: Maintaining strong financial management, keeping common areas well-maintained, and consistently enforcing deed restrictions all play a crucial role in preserving and even enhancing property values. A well-kept community is a valuable community.

 

Q: What services do you provide for common areas and amenities?
A: Our onsite team conducts weekly inspections of common areas to identify necessary repairs. We dispatch qualified vendors for minor fixes and, for larger projects, obtain bids for Board approval to ensure the best possible service at a fair price.

 

Q: How do the onsite and community managers support residents?
A: We’re here to assist homeowners with any community-related concerns. The onsite manager helps with clubhouse reservations and access devices while also providing general guidance about association rules and amenities.

 

Q: How does Crest Management handle communication and feedback from residents?
A: Open communication is vital. Homeowners report maintenance concerns and other issues, which we pass along to the Board for action. We work to ensure that all voices are heard and that necessary improvements are addressed.

 

Q: What community events or activities does Crest Management help organize?
A: While the Coles Crossing Events Committee takes the lead in planning activities, we support them by securing vendors and providing administrative assistance. Events like Fall and Christmas celebrations, Spring and Fall garage sales, bingo nights, Easter events, and pool parties help foster a strong sense of community.

 

Q: How do you ensure compliance with community rules and regulations?
A: We conduct monthly inspections of homes to check for compliance with deed restrictions and architectural guidelines. When we identify potential violations, we communicate with homeowners to encourage compliance. Our onsite team is available to answer any questions about the rules to ensure clarity and understanding.

 

Q: What maintenance and repair services does Crest Management oversee for shared facilities?
A: We proactively inspect common areas and amenities every week. If we identify any issues, we dispatch vendors for small repairs and obtain bids for larger projects for the Board to review and approve.

 

Q: How does Crest Management contribute to the safety and security of the community?
A: While security is ultimately the responsibility of law enforcement, our community managers are trained to identify and report suspicious activity. We also coordinate with local authorities to help enhance overall safety within the neighborhood.

 

Q: What is something residents may not know about Crest Management?
A: Many homeowners believe the management company is the HOA, but that’s not the case. The HOA consists of homeowners themselves, and the Board of Directors hires us to provide management services. We work at their direction to keep the community running smoothly.

 

From financial stability to maintenance, compliance, and resident engagement, Crest Management plays an essential role in ensuring that our neighborhood remains a wonderful place to live. Their behind-the-scenes work keeps our community thriving and well-maintained.

 

Age gracefully, actively, and joyfully with Coles Crossing 55 Plus! They are a dynamic group of residents, 55 and up, who refuse to let age define them. Instead, they are redefining what it means to live a fulfilling life - Connect, Happiness, and Enjoyment! The Club is designed to empower seniors with opportunities for physical activity, mental stimulation, and social connection. It's not about slowing down; it's about maximizing your time and enjoying every moment.

 

About the Group: Coles Crossing 55 Plus is a group of Coles Crossing residents aged 55 and older. The Club has something for everyone including, pickleball, book club, dinner group (dining out and progressive dinners), outings group, which visits area museums, concerts, plays etc., games (Mexican train) group, men’s beerology and caffeine study group (alternating visiting a brewery and breakfast) and Wine & Cheese. Any activity of interest can be added. The smaller groups meet monthly.

 

The Club also meets quarterly for a social/potluck dinner. Dues are $20 pp or $40 per couple, paid annually. They are pro-rated by quarter.

 

If you are interested, please email over55colescrossing@gmail.com Be sure to include your name(s), physical address (residency is verified), email address and phone number.

Dr. Alex Han
Orthopedic Surgery (Hand, Wrist, and Elbow)

 

Carpal tunnel syndrome affects about 4% of people in the United States and the incidence increases with age. Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when your median nerve becomes compressed as it travels through a passageway in your wrist called the carpal tunnel. Symptoms typically start with night wakening from burning, tingling, or numbness, and can progress to daytime symptoms. It can be treated, but in severe cases surgery may be required. The diagnosis can be made based on history and physical examination but may require a nerve conduction test.

 

What carpal tunnel syndrome treatment options are available?
In mild and moderate cases conservative treatments are first-line, and can include nighttime splinting, anti-inflammatory medications, and occupational therapy. Corticosteroid injections may be recommended for temporary symptomatic relief.

 

In severe cases, surgery is typically the recommended treatment.

 

Why have carpal tunnel surgery?
If left untreated, carpal tunnel syndrome can progress and potentially lead to permanent nerve damage and the loss of sensation and strength.

 

If your pain is continuous and has progressed to the point that it is interrupting your everyday life despite conservative treatments, it is likely time for surgery.

 

What is carpal tunnel surgery?
There are two ways carpal tunnel surgery is performed. Endoscopic surgery, also referred to as minimally invasive surgery, uses one or two small incisions and a tiny camera to guide surgical tools to the carpal ligament and cut it. Open surgery uses an incision made along the palm side of the wrist to access and cut the carpal ligament. Choosing which surgery is right for you is up to you and your doctor. 

 

The timetable for post-surgery recovery can vary from patient to patient. Some patients experience relief as soon as a few weeks post-surgery, while some may take up to a year for complete improvement.

 

 

Sleep, what we all need as growing young people and as adults.  

Remember the old joke about wanting to sleep for 10 hours like you did when you were 3 years old.  It still rings true today for most of us and like so many issues of our time, there has been lots of research done on the topic of sleep deprivation, why it occurs and some tips on things to try to improve your sleep habits.

 

What are the sleep stages? 

The first three stages are non- REM sleep.  Different phases of taking you from being awake, to relaxing your breathing, your heartrate, your blood pressure and your muscles.  

When you get to REM sleep about 90 minutes after falling asleep, you go into overdrive.  REM stands for “Rapid Eye Movement”.  

Your eyes are moving back and forth behind your eyelids, your breathing, heartrate and blood pressure increase almost to awake levels.  

This is when you may have a sleep disorder, waking up, restless leg syndrome, and other things. 

Interestingly, when your sleep mode is working the right way, you dream in REM stage, but your muscles are paralyzed to keep you from acting out your dreams (remember falling off the cliff?  You can’t jump).

 

Some of the sleep disorders include; Irregular sleep wake rhythms, insomnia, narcolepsy, nightmares, sleep apnea an restless leg syndrome.  These different disorders have many causes, and everyone reacts to them differently.  

One person who is sleep deprived may sleep like a log when the opportunity comes to sleep, while others can’t fall asleep while exhausted.  

 

There are treatments, medications and even surgery for different kinds of sleep disorders and as always, this article is meant to make you aware of some symptoms and tips on improving your habits.  Please visit your doctor for treatments and medications.  One tip seems to come up in research and that is seeing a neurologist for sleep issues has been recommended. 

 

Tips for improvement will seem obvious and you may already be doing some of these.  Every little effort you can make within your lifestyle of working, raising kids, running your household, etc., will benefit you.

Spend time in the sunshine
Exercise 30 minutes a day
Eat meals at consistent times
Avoid heavy foods, alcohol and nicotine two hours before bed
Napping before 3pm and not more than 30-45 minutes (otherwise you may make it harder to fall asleep at night)
 

Sleep deprivation can slow you down, cause depression and one study showed for every 1 hour a night college student average under the 7-9 hours per night of sleep, their GPA went down .07 on a 4.0 scale,

 

Enjoy your life and get as much sleep as you can.

 

By Tywin Handson

 

The grand opening of Houston Methodist Cypress is just around the corner, and excitement is building for the community. The new facility, set to open its doors on March 17, 2025, promises to offer cutting-edge healthcare right in the heart of Cypress, ensuring that residents no longer have to travel far for world-class medical care.

 

We interviewed Marcus Powers, Senior Communications Specialist at Houston Methodist, to learn more about what this new hospital will bring to the area. "Residents can expect the same personalized healthcare they’ve come to know from Houston Methodist, now right in their backyard," Powers said. The full-scale acute care hospital will feature 100 beds, an 18-bed emergency department, and state-of-the-art childbirth and neonatal ICUs. As the hospital grows, it has the capacity to expand to 500 beds, ensuring it can meet the needs of a rapidly growing community.

 

What sets this hospital apart is its commitment to integrating advanced technology to enhance patient care. "Every room will be equipped with ambient intelligence sensors that monitor patient movement, automatically alerting staff if attention is needed, like in the case of a fall," Powers explained. "And digital whiteboards will offer patients real-time updates on their care, medication, and even the names and photos of their healthcare team." For those who prefer hands-free control, patients can adjust the room’s temperature, lighting, and contact a nurse using voice commands. It's a futuristic approach that makes healthcare more personalized and patient-centered.

 

Surgical patients will also benefit from robotic surgery tools, offering precision and minimally invasive procedures that result in faster recovery times. "These tools allow us to be more precise, improving outcomes and reducing hospital stays," Powers said.

As the new facility prepares to open, it’s clear that Houston Methodist Cypress is dedicated to being a true part of the community. Powers shared that the hospital has already formed strong partnerships with local organizations like the Cy-Fair Chamber of Commerce and Cy-Fair ISD. And with a commitment to community engagement, the hospital will host events, sponsor local races, and offer programs to bring people together.

 

During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Coles Crossing resident Michael Gaines couldn’t have been more excited. "Houston Methodist is a world-class facility in our backyard, where me and my family can leverage our healthcare needs," he said. "It has cutting-edge technology, a fantastic medical staff, and it’s a great option for Coles Crossing residents." The excitement was shared by Amy Ramon, Fire Chief for Harris County Emergency Services District No. 9. "Houston Methodist is a quality hospital," Ramon said. "Residents can get immediate care, transport, and drop-off within minutes. We cover 164 square miles northwest of Houston, Texas, and with our fire stations running engines, rescues, aerials, and medic units, we’re ready to partner with the hospital to serve the community."

 

Looking ahead, Houston Methodist Cypress is ready to tackle the future of healthcare. "We’ve designed this hospital with flexibility in mind, so as new technologies and treatments develop, we’ll be able to integrate them seamlessly," Powers explained.

The hospital is set to transform the way Cypress residents experience healthcare, offering a level of care, convenience, and community connection that will make it an invaluable asset for years to come.

 

Hello Coles Crossing Neighbors! My name is Rich Henderson and I’m pleased to announce my candidacy for the Coles Crossing HOA Board.

 

I am a 17-year resident of Coles Crossing, having moved here in 2007 shortly after my wife Melissa gave birth to our twin daughters. We wanted to live in a family-centric community with exemplary schools and beautiful natural surroundings; Coles Crossing was the obvious choice. My children thrived at Sampson Elementary before moving to Spillane and then Cy-Woods where they are currently juniors.

 

Two events compelled me to get involved in the community. First, I saw the devastating effects of Hurricane Harvey and how so many of my friends wanted to provide service in our neighborhood but didn’t know what to do. Soon after, my wife apprised me of issues with the HOA Board President who was stealing from our community. I attended a few meetings and heard the dismay from neighbors but also a lack of an organized response. I knew it was my turn to step up and get more involved in the community. In 2018 a small group of neighbors and myself founded the Coles Crossing Dads Club, for which I have served as the President since its establishment.

 

The mission of the Coles Crossing Dads Club is to strengthen Coles Crossing through the fellowship of its fathers. In our seven years, we’ve raised over $60,000 from various fundraisers including our annual BBQ Cook Off. We’ve awarded scholarships to neighborhood seniors, provided funds to Coles kids with medical conditions, sponsored both the Coles Crocs Swim Team and the Sampson PTO, completed home projects for neighbors in need, run the annual Christmas Lights Contest, and most recently made a significant contribution to the building of the new Sampson playground. Leading the 70+ Coles Dads for the betterment of our neighborhood is one of my proudest accomplishments.

 

Professionally, I have worked in the automotive industry for 26 years since graduating from Texas A&M University. I currently serve as a corporate operations manager with Volkswagen Group of America, and manage the most profitable and highest market-share Volkswagen dealership group in the region.

 

This March I will step down from my post as President of the Dads Club. I see serving on the Coles Crossing HOA Board as a natural progression in my community service and ask for your support in voting for me as the next member of the Board.