When I was asked this question during a recent networking meeting outside of our area, for a split second I became aware of a mental hesitation that I have exercised as long as I have lived in Cy-Fair. Depending on who is asking the question, my answers have varied from the name of my subdivision, Northwest Houston, Cypress, or Cy-Fair. Although we are not incorporated as a city, we do have an identity. Once known as Harris County's Little A&M, Cy-Fair has grown from rice fields and dairy farms to a thriving community of nearly 700,000 people.

We see the growth happening all around us, but the key is to position ourselves ahead of the growth with community collaboration and public input. In a way, we are asking people who live and work here, "What does Cy-Fair want to be when it grows up?" No matter what your answer may be to this question, I hope you see the value in the discussion and effort to build consensus for the vision of the community.

I joined the Discover Cy-Fair committee with the Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce this summer because I recognize the need to market and brand our area. With all of the development happening within our community as well as across the region, every community wants to put their best foot forward not only to attract new business, but also to keep it here.

This month marks our fourth year of delivering relevant news to your mailbox, and the beginning of a new identity ourselves. This edition is now called Cy-Fair.

Kelli Ray, General manager, [email protected]