To Download The

COVID-19 CURVEBALL STRIKES MLB SPORTS | 6

OFFICIALS CONSIDER CHANGING SEX ED POLICY Katy Times PAGE 10

VOLUME 108, ISSUE 27 THE GREATER KATY AREA'S NEWS SOURCE SINCE 1912 n katytimes.com THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2020 FBC July 14 early voting begins opens By R. HANS MILLER in the county. Below are the ones affecting SENIOR REPORTER Katy area voters. Troy Nehls and Kathaleen Wall are Katy area voters have several items on battling for the Republican nomination business the ballot for the runoff election slated for for Texas House District 22 after incum- July 14. Early voting began June 29 and bent Pete Olson, who lives in Sugar Land, will run through July 10. Voters should announced he would not be running for check their county’s elections websites for reelection. The winner of the runoff will grant polling locations and hours and to view face Democratic nominee Sri Preston full sample ballots. Kulkarni and Libertarian nominee Joseph By SANDRA SADEK This article presents a noncompre- LeBlanc in November. EDITORIAL INTERN hensive listing of runoff elections in Fort As Nehls leaves the position of Fort Bend County Sheriff, Democratic candi- Bend, Harris and Waller counties. Fort Bend County is accepting dates Eric Fagan and Geneane Hughes are Katy area voters will have the opportunity to cast early ballots applications for its latest Small vying for the chance to face Nehls’ brother through July 10 and will be able to participate at the polls July Business Emergency Assistance Fort Bend County Trever Nehls in November. Trever current- 14. Elections officials in Fort Bend, Harris and Waller counties are Grant program, funded by the Fort Bend Republicans have four items encouraging social distancing and the use of face masks to keep CARES Act. on the ballot depending on where they live See VOTING, page 5 voting safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. The program offers one-time grants up to $25,000 to small businesses to aid in eligible CARES Act activities such as costs for personal protective equipment; re-opening supplies, equipment, and renovations; inventory; utilities; remote working expenses; leases and mortgage assistance. Grants are on a first-come, first-served basis and will last until all funds run out. Grant amounts will be based on the business’ total 2019 revenue. If not in business for at least six months in 2019, a projection of annual income based on the three months preceding the Stay at Home Order on April 3, 2020, will be accepted. Annual sales totaling between $25,000 and $100,000 will receive grants up to $5,000. Annual sales between $100,001 and $2,000,000 will receive up to $15,000. Annual sales between $2,000,001 and $5,000,000 will receive up to $25,000 in grants. Eligible, Fort Bend Coun- ANNA SHVETS ty businesses must employ Medical professionals throughout the Katy area are recommending everyone wear cloth face masks that cover the mouth and nose while interacting with people outside of their between 1-50 full-time equiva- households such as on trips to the grocery store in order to reduce the spread of COVID-19 through respiratory droplets and saliva. lent employees. Annual business revenue total must be at least $25,000 and not exceed- ing $5,000,000. They must be for-profit businesses only and County mask orders extended must have been substantially impacted by COVID-19. The By R. HANS MILLER extreme measures,” said Fort Bend County had a maximum ICU surge capacity of 2,207 business must be operational SENIOR REPORTER Judge KP George. beds, if needed. Of the available beds, 460 as of February 15, 2020, and The order extensions come about a week had COVID-19 patients in them. CEOs of the not be permanently closed. The Harris and Fort Bend counties both after Governor Greg Abbott reversed course hospitals that make up the TMC said they can business and all principals must extended their relevant mask orders for in opening the state back up due to rising adjust capacity to ensure patients are treated, be in good standing at the time businesses to require all staff and visitors cases statewide. As of June 30, the Texas De- but stressed that it remains vital the commu- of application with the State of to their establishments wear face masks partment of State Health Services reported nity work to slow the spread of COVID-19. Texas and their respective cities. to help stop the spread of theSARS-CoV-2 159,986 cases of COVID-19 in Texas since “The reality is we have to do a much This includes real and personal virus which causes COVID-19 , among the pandemic began, with 72,744 remaining better job of masking, hand hygiene and taxes, outstanding payments, po- other restrictions Tuesday afternoon. Fort active. Harris County reported 31,422 cases social distancing ourselves. The spread is tential judgments, fines, or other Bend has extended its order through July total with 20,343 remaining active. Fort increasing and it’s very concerning,” said amounts due to the city. 31, while Harris goes through Aug. 26. Bend County reported 3,782 total cases with Dr. Doug Lawson, CEO at St. Luke’s Health. The expectation is that the “We are all in this together and if we 2,405 cases active. DSHS reports 152 cases Local health authorities, hospital CEOs, business would remain opera- continue doing our part, we will succeed in in Waller County, but 92 had been catego- and Infectious Disease Specialist Dr. Linda beating the coronavirus without the gov- rized as recovered on June 29. See GRANT, page 5 ernor of Texas forcing lockdowns or other As of June 29, the Texas Medical Center See MASK, page 10

HAVE A NEWS TIP? [email protected] SUBSCRIBE TODAY Pastor helps community despite COVID-19 (281) 391-3141 By JOSELYN HOFER July 2, 2020 EDITORIAL INTERN 10 pages | $1 Pastor Beverly Vaughn is the founder and owner of resale shop, Help a Sister Out, in Brookshire on Highway 90. The shop first opened in 2010 and has been running ever since, selling gently used clothes and giving out food and support to those who need it in the Brookshire community. Although Help a Sister Out provides support for everyone in need, the shop revolves around supporting the New Birth Ministries women’s shelter in Brookshire, Vaughn said. “Well, my main goal was to open up a women’s shelter. And we have the New Birth Ministries woman’s shelter. And after we opened up, we were getting a lot of donations, (but) the donations weren’t utilized like I thought they were supposed to be,” Vaughn said. Years later, Help a Sister Out was officially opened with a mission to serve the women’s shelter, said Vaughn, but as time went by, it grew into something much bigger that branched out to the whole town. “It just grew into giving to the community. So, what we do is like on Tuesdays we give out an abundance of food but every day we have pastries and breads to give to the community. Everything I JOSELYN HOFER As well as forming Help a Sister Out, Beverly also founded New Birth Ministries and ministers to the See PASTOR, page 5 women there along with offering them support and prayers.

OUTSMARTING CANCER IN WEST HOUSTON & KATY

832.522.5522 houstonmethodist.org/cancer-west THE KATY TIMES 2 THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2020 EDUCATION KATYTIMES.COM Benefit emerges for Aristoi Classical Academy CONTRIBUTED REPORT

An unexpected advantage ap- peared for Katy’s Aristoi Classical Academy when COVID-19 struck and they realized they had just the right amount of technology for everyone to transition online. Nearly two years ago, the academy was gifted 300 computers from the well-known energy company, Shell, which helped the school face the challenges of home- based learning during COVID-19. With the help of volunteers like Jim and Cathy Jones, the school managed to transition to this new atmosphere without trouble and had the technology on hand prior to the pandemic, said Aristoi Clas- sical Academy Superintendent, Brenda Davidson. “Parent volunteers add the bells and whistles to Aristoi Classical Academy by their caring donations and volunteer hours,” said Davidson. CONTRIBUTED With experience working at Classical education usually encourages students to find knowledge within classical texts and Socratic seminars but the Aristoi staff is more than happy to begin this new era. Shell, both Jim and Cathy helped coordinate the donation and facilitate the setup of all the comput- schools and other upper school “They had all of this done prior central to education, they have for what the new school year will ers. They began by re-imaging the campuses before finally preparing to COVID-19,” Davidson said. “I discovered a balance between the bring while still honoring the acad- software profiles on the comput- the computers for Shell’s donat- just consider it divine intervention. two, said Davidson. emy’s roots in classical education. ers to replace the old software ed technology. Little did anyone We would not have been at this Aristoi plans to educate stu- “(The Joneses) have not in any with appropriate programs for know that the technology would place without this donation.” dents in the fall whether that be way tried to move us from our both students and teachers. become so vital at the end of the Although the academy is usually on-campus or online. With a new goals and philosophy of a classical This included a replacement of 2019-20 school year, said David- not a place that accepts modern computer center and two new IT education. They’ve struck the per- computers in Aristoi elementary son. electronics and considers them employees, the academy is ready fect balance,” said Davidson.

Gov. Abbott appoints UHV student regent By JOSELYN HOFFER EDITORIAL INTERN

Alvaro De la Cruz Jr., a recent graduate of the Univer- sity of Houston–Victoria, has been appointed as a student regent on the UH System Board of Regents by Texas Gov- ernor, Greg Abbott, until May 31, 2021. As a student regent, he gets to attend UH board meetings with nine board members and rep- PHOTO COURTESY OF VINCENT RAPP resents the voice of the university’s students. Although, he doesn’t TSTC’s Fort Bend County campus gets festive for graduates. get a vote in final decisions, De la Cruz Jr. is grateful for the opportunity to be the second UHV student regent in over 45 years. TSTC celebrates 44 spring 2020 graduates “This appointment is an ALVARO DE incredible honor, and I am so LA CRUZ JR. By SANDRA SADEK “Celebrating something positive “The fact that they were able to excited to be able to represent my EDITORIAL INTERN during this pandemic is something rise to the challenge and complete university and all of the UH System’s students,” De la Cruz we were all happy to do. I hope the their degrees proves that they are said. “It’s a huge responsibility, and I’m looking forward to Texas State Technical College’s Fort graduates know that we will always more than just trained in their craft,” being part of this critical group.” Bend County campus held a small, be here to support them, encourage Vargas said. “They have the heart and De la Cruz Jr. is no stranger to being in leadership roles socially-distant commencement cere- them, and join in on what we know spirit to rise above adversity. That is as as he has held many over the course of his college career, mony for its 44 spring 2020 graduates will be a lifetime of accomplishments,” valuable, if not more, than any other said UHV President Bob Glenn. As an undergraduate he on June 19, 2020. Calzada said. quality.” has been the president over two organizations, the vice TSTC campus enrollment exec- Kenneth Buford, TSTC’s director According to Naissa Lopez, TSTC president of one and has served in many other capacities utive Georgeann Calzada said the of veteran recruitment in Fort Bend is confident graduates will find a job for other organizations. He has also won many awards school’s staff wanted to do something County, and Christina Vargas, TSTC within six months of graduating. If recognizing his leadership in the student community. for its graduates despite the pandemic assistant director of enrollment man- not, the college offers a money-back “Alvaro is a young man who has become a major part canceling major events. The entire agement, offered their congratulations program for certain degrees. of the student leadership group at UHV,” Glenn said. “His ceremony lasted around 15 to 20 to the Class of 2020 and encouraged Fall registration is currently open. commitment to excellence and his love for the university minutes. them to stay in touch. For more information, visit tstc.edu. have made a lasting impact on UHV. I am excited to see how he will bring that same level of excellence to serve as the student representative for the Board of Regents.” Usually, a student regent begins by touring each campus apart of the UH system, but because of COVID-19, De la Cruz Jr. must use alternate methods for touring. Katy ISD approves pay increases for all staff “It’s important for me to know about each institution so I can offer an accurate student perspective,” De la Cruz By R. HANS MILLER Jr. said. “We’re looking into scheduling virtual sessions, SENIOR REPORTER so I can still meet the leaders of each university while also practicing social distancing.” The Katy ISD Board of Trustees has approved pay De la Cruz Jr. said he is excited to start his year long increases for all KISD staff at their last board meeting term and is grateful for the support of his friends and held June 22. The pay increase includes a $660 raise for advisors over the course of his undergraduate studies all teachers with an additional lump sum payment in and application process for student regent. December of this year. Non-teachers will received a 1% “I have a wonderful support system of friends and increase in pay at the beginning of the 2020-21 school advisors who have believed in and encouraged me,” he said. year, according to a Katy ISD press release. “They are always giving me positive feedback. They don’t let “It’s because of our employees’ drive and passion to me forget that in everything I do, I always give my best. Now be there for our kids and establish relationships with I plan to bring that commitment to my role as student re- families, regardless of circumstances, that Katy ISD gent so I can do a good job for everyone in the UH System.” students consistently outperform students from across the state,” KISD Superintendent Ken Gregorski said. “They ensure that our students have access to resources, opportunities and experiences that have positioned Katy ISD as a destination school district.” Administration praised district staff for their work during the COVID-19 pandemic that successfully helped the district’s roughly 84,000 students continue their educations despite needing to participate in class- FILE PHOTO BY R. HANS MILLER es from home. Katy ISD staff will see a bump in pay at the beginning of the next school year.

Gregorski appoints principal, special ed director By R. HANS MILLER an educator since 1996. She was SENIOR REPORTER worked in Katy ISD and other nearby school districts since that time and Katy ISD Superintendent Ken has served as principal of Rylander Gregorski has appointed two staff to Elementary. She is being promoted important roles within the district from KISD’s director of compliance according to a June 29 press release. position into this one. She holds Andrew Lowery has been appointed degrees from the University of Hous- ton-Victoria and expects to graduate as principal of WoodCreek Junior GWEN ANDREW COFFEY LOWERY from Texas Tech with a doctorate High School while Gwen Coffey has later this year. been promoted to executive director “I am honored and humbled at of special education. with students, parents and the commu- the opportunity to lead the Katy ISD “It is with great pride and excite- nity, Lowry said. Special Education department in sup- ment that I accept the role of Principal Lowry is a graduate of the University porting our students, families, teach- at WoodCreek Junior High. I feel very of Texas at Austin and the University ers, and administrators,” Mrs. Coffey honored to have the opportunity to lead of Houston. He has worked in various said. “I look forward to the continued a school with such a rich tradition of roles within KISD for the last 14 years development of outstanding opportu- excellence.” Dr. Lowry said. including teaching and coaching roles. nities for Katy ISD students through the Priorities at WoodCreek will focus Coffey steps into a role to help combination of departmental support, on maintaining the school’s successful students facing educational chal- the ongoing efforts of campus staff, and track record and building relationships lenges overcome them and has been parent partnerships.” THE KATY TIMES NEWS THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2020 3 KATYTIMES.COM Waller County debates plan By SANDRA SADEK plat exemptions must comply EDITORIAL INTERN with the 2019 Major Thor- oughfare Plan were held. A The Waller County Com- potential ordinance with new missioners’ Court tabled a land requirements may be pro- plan due to a missing agree- posed, but no final decision ment and Judge Trey Duhon was made and the item will be gave COVID-19 updates during examined on a future agenda. JOSELYN HOFER the court’s June 24 meeting. A change order was The next season of Buzzword will last eight weeks and can range from a The court decided to table approved for a new bridge variety of subjects such as math, science and fine arts. the approval of a General Land structure on McAllister Road Plan for Sunterra Outdoors over the Brookshire Creek, due to the development amounting to around $18,000. agreement between the county The court also selected Cum- and the company not being mins as the vendor for the Local student executed yet. Three of the Precinct 4 generator at a cost commissioners, Pct. 1’s John of $129,665. Amsler, Pct. 2’s Walter Smith Vince Yokom was re-nom- and Pct. 3’s Jeron Barnett, were inated for the June 2020-May earns seventh worried that approving the 2023 term to the Hous- By JOSELYN HOFER preliminary plan prior to the GOOGLE ton-Galveston Area Council development agreement being Advisory Committee for the EDITORIAL INTERN approved would limit the Waller County Commissioners approved multiple contracts totaling nearly Gulf Coast Economic Devel- Ozan Demiroglu, an eighth-grade student attend- court’s overview of the project. $150,000 for bridge work and a generator during their June 24 meeting. opment District representing ing Beckendorff Junior High, placed seventh out of Rather than letting the plan Waller County. twenty-one students competing online in Buzzword. fail, the court decided to table pared to neighboring counties, protocols The Waller County Com- Buzzword is an international quiz bowl where stu- it to a later date. for social distancing and wearing masks missioners’ Court meets Wednesdays at dents are given a series of questions and have to buzz Judge Duhon gave some COVID-19 must still be followed. 9 a.m. at the Waller County Courthouse in immediately when they know an answer. updates as well, stating the current num- Duhon said he doesn’t plan on in Hempstead. Meetings are currently Because of the current pandemic, Demirog- ber of cases in Waller County is 111, with issuing an executive order mandating being held virtually, including the pub- lu played at home as an individual rather than working a few hospitalizations and no confirmed businesses have employees and clients lic comments portion of the meeting. side by side with a team, said the National Academic fatalities yet. Duhon reminded citizens wear masks at the moment. Local callers should call 979-921-6212 Quiz Tournaments organization in a press release. that, despite Waller not being a hotspot Discussion about removing the and non-local callers should call 800- Buzzword was created by the NAQT in order to and having lower rates of cases com- requirement that eligible applicants for 576-1131. User code is 14329937. allow academic competitions to continue during COVID-19. Students in middle school, high school, and college have a chance to play as well in their respective sections. Even the general public is given the opportunity to play in an Open Division. Those who are interested can try a sample game Man arrested in animal cruelty case and register at http://naqt.com/buzzword for a chance to compete in the next season, starting July 2, 2020. By R. HANS MILLER thriving to this held on $7,500 bond and is facing SENIOR REPORTER day although charges of cruelty to a non-livestock he suffers animal. Timothy Holloway, 32, of Fort Bend from sinus Thompson credited his depart- County has been arrested after an in- infections and ment’s animal cruelty investigator, vestigation into a Dec. incident where- other traumatic Howard Kreusel for solving the case Suspect arrested in a dog named Clarence was left in a issues from and expressed appreciation to Fort wire kennel with a gunshot wound to the gunshot Bend County Judge KP George and the head, according to a social media wound,” TIMOTHY the Fort Bend County Commissioners post by Constable Wayne Thompson of Thompson HOLLOWAY Court for funding the animal cruelty in shooting case Fort Bend County’s third precinct. said. investigator position. “Subsequent to arrest, Holloway Fort Bend County Jail records indi- Thompson said Clarence is now By SANDRA SADEK confessed to the crime. Clarence is cate that Holloway is currently being being trained as a therapy dog. EDITORIAL INTERN The Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office arrested Mah- mood Ayaan Rehmatulla on June 23 in response to a shooting in the Richmond area on Sheriff’s Office arrest burglar in Rosenberg June 18 at 1:03 a.m. at the 1900 MAHMOOD AYAAN block of US 90A Eastbound. REHMATULLA By SANDRA SADEK arrested Julian Olvera, 21, of Olvera is booked in the Rehmatulla, 19, of Rich- EDITORIAL INTERN Rosenberg. Fort Bend County Jail and has mond was arrested and charged with aggravated FBCSO reports that Olvera been charged with burglary assault with a deadly weapon, a second degree felony. The Fort Bend County stabbed one of the homeown- of habitation, a first-degree The victim was transported to the medical center Sheriff’s Office responded er’s dogs, which is expected to felony with a $20,000 bond. where he was treated. to a burglary of habitation survive after treatment at the He has also been charged with Rehmatulla’s bond is set at $20,000 and he is cur- on June 23 at 9:43 a.m. at Houston Humane Society. No cruelty to animals, a third- rently in the Fort Bend County Jail. He was previously the 500 block of San Carlos one was injured and no prop- degree felony with a $15,000 charged for assault causing bodily injury, a class A in Rosenberg. Deputies erty was stolen. bond. JULIAN OLVERA misdemeanor.

This Week’s Puzzle Sponsored by This Week’s Puzzle Sponsored by

CROSSWORD PUZZLE CLUES ACROSS 1. African nation 7. __ fi (slang) 10. Not arranged according to size 12. A demand for a show of hands in a card game 13. Having a play of lustrous rainbowlike colors 14. Panama has one 15. Taking legal action 16. Top of the body 17. Part of (abbr.) 18. Soul and calypso song 19. Murres 21. Irish river 22. Accepts as true 27. The Bay State 28. 1950s Hollywood icon 33. Blood type 34. In a way, became lost 36. Large primate 37. A spongelike cake leavened with yeast 4. Word element meaning ear 29. Football position 38. Mama __, folk singer 5. Amino acid (abbr.) 30. Electronic musical style 39. Visual metaphor 6. Promotions (abbr.) (computers) 7. Actress Lathan 40. Trim by cutting 8. Clothed 31. Furniture with open 41. Small group of people 9. Unwell shelves 44. Pulitzer-winning scientist 10. Loosen 32. Clouds of gas in outer 45. Unique S. American 11. Cephalopod mollusks mammal space 12. __ at Obdurata: Harmful 48. Energy, style and 35. Indian midwife papal bull Fun By The Numbers enthusiasm 36. Packers’ signal caller Like puzzles? Then you’ll love sudoku. This mind-bending puzzle will have you 14. Musical composition 49. One who works for you 38. Secret political clique hooked from the moment you square off, so sharpen your pencil and put your sudoku 50. Snakelike fish 17. Irish bar savvy to the test. 51. Consumers 18. Greek island 40. Cry weakly 20. Afflict 41. Gomer __, marine Here’s How It Works: CLUES DOWN 23. Goes by 42. Academic Bill of Rights Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To 1. Cylindrical sacs 24. Ambience 43. Negatives solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each 2. Extinct North Germanic 25. Video game manufacturer number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the language 26. Surplus Marketing 44. Hip hop icon Kool order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided 3. Late rocker Allman Administration Moe __ in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle! Answers will be provided in next week’s edition. Answers will be provided in next week’s edition.

5507 Morton Rd. Suite 103, Katy, TX 77493 5507 Morton Rd. Suite 103, Katy, TX 77493 (281) 391-3141 (281) 391-3141 THE KATY TIMES 4 THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2020 OPINION KATYTIMES.COM What’s your state’s rank? he personal finance website T WalletHub recently DANNY released its ranking of TYREE the “patriotism” of all 50 SPECIAL states. TO THE In an era of toppled KATY statues, kneeling athletes, TIMES microaggressions, border wall controversies and globalist agendas, trying to define and quantify sends up the Patriotism patriotism resembles Question Signal”?) voluntarily crisscrossing a One of the tasks minefield. WalletHub charged the We’ve settled for experts with was naming a society where the the characteristics of a “melting pot” is less good patriot. But it would important than “TAXING be more fun to enumerate pot”; but once upon a the characteristics of time, patriotism was a BAD patriot. (Does easier to recognize. Good bad impressions of Americans knew that true Christopher Walken patriots kept a watchful insisting, “Needs more eye on the oddball who Liberty Bell.” Finds a planted a tree on Arbor shortcut to Tipperary. Day. (“Mark my words: Gives until it hurts… he’s planting that poplar his feelings. Rips up just so a communist can his pocket copy of the lurk behind it someday!”) Constitution while Nowadays, greed frantically seeking the seems to outweigh words “Freedom’s just civic responsibility. If another word for nothing composer John Philip left to lose…”) Sousa were alive today, Some of the criteria for his FIRST march would ranking states’ patriotism be down to the offices are uncontroversial: of Spotify and Pandora. highest average number (“Now, how much will of military enlistees, you pay to stream the percentage of veterans catalog of songs I’ve per capita, most Peace been holding out? You’re Corps volunteers per kidding. I think you know capita, etc. But “highest where you can put these volunteer rate” sticks in 76 trombones…”) my craw. Not all volunteer Kids, pedal those pandemic blues away Yes, throngs of work in this great land townspeople used to comes through organized ere’s one good thing about was introduced in 1968, but there be able to belt out the charities. Much of it the COVID-19 pandemic: was no way my single-income uplifting lyrics “Three arrives in spur-of-the- H Bike sales are booming. family could afford one. It cost the Cheers for the Red, moment gestures, even if I hope that means kids will begin TOM PURCELL equivalent of nearly $700 today! White and Blue” on they ARE more “showing riding in big numbers again. Still, I was plenty blessed that SPECIAL TO Independence Day. In off” than altruistic. There was a big bike-sales boom THE KATY TIMES Christmas morning. I got a neon- 2020 the song would have (“You say your boy has in the early 1970s, too – the result green Huffy spyder bike, a color that to be rendered suitable a ruptured appendix, of millions of baby boom kids, like made it one of the cooler bikes in for the colorblind, the Bubba? Let me tie a string me, riding our bikes from dawn until my neighborhood. I loved it – but it deaf, the hoarse and to my monster truck. Naw, dusk. got stolen when my sister, Kris, left it the mathematically it ain’t no trouble…”) From its inception in the 1800s, unlocked outside a department store. bicycles with drag-racing motorcycle challenged. (“After the I’m also embarrassed the bicycle had been produced My dad found me a used Murray accoutrements. “Choppers” – custom neutered fireworks that my home state mostly for adults. In the 1900s, bikes five-speed that was even better. motorcycles with long handlebars display, instead of a (Tennessee) ranked 48th offered urban working-class folks an I polished it every day, and rode – were all the rage. Fritz introduced singalong, we have a in the category of “highest inexpensive way to get to and from the wheels off of it exploring and chopper elements into his new multiracial, non-binary percentage of adults work. Sales were brisk into the early design. discovering the outside world. mime attempting to who voted in the 2016 1900s. The Schwinn Sting-Ray was born. Childhood has changed since escape from an invisible presidential election.” But as America prospered – as the It had smaller, 20-inch tires – then. With adults so often structuring box we like to call Western In our defense, the automobile became the chief mode of with flat racing treads – and high and monitoring activities, kids who Civilization.”) pollsters were all saying, travel – bike sales plummeted. Sales handlebars and a banana seat. Every ride today likely ride with adults. Luckily, WalletHub had “Every minute in the wouldn’t grow again until millions of And just last year, The Washington a panel of experts to help voting booth is a minute kid had to have one. And every baby boomer kids were living in wide- manufacturer began making bikes Post reported on industry research it hash out its criteria. away from SEC football.” open suburbs. showing significant declines in (Patriotism experts? Is Pollsters, Jack Daniel… just like it – a style we referred to as Schwinn was the first bike maker the “spyder” bike. children’s bike riding and bike sales. that even a thing? Do potato, potahto… to tap that youth market. But now, pent-up energy from people graduate summa Anyway, if WalletHub I got my first spyder bike for In the 1950s, the standard bike Christmas 1970, when I was 8: a pandemic lockdowns is causing cum laude in watching publishes the listing again design was the cruiser, a gargantuan, bike sales to explode. Let’s hope that the Old North Church, next year, maybe some of red Murray one-speed with chrome fender-covered machine built for fenders and a black banana seat. I means more of today’s children will with minors in tight lips the lower-ranking states adults. There was only one gear (slow) put down their electronics, pedal will be spurred to improve rode it so often and so hard, it was and remembering the and you braked by reversing the long and hard with warm summer Alamo? Do experts say their score. And maybe worn out by my 12th birthday. pedals and pressing down hard. air whipping through their hair, and things like “I’d love to go old man Jones will finally As Christmas 1972 approached, In the early 1960s, however, experience what bikes have long to the party, but I must repurpose that poplar tree I dreamed of every kid’s early-‘70s Schwinn designer Al Fritz had an represented for kids, according to scan the skies in case as a SCHOOL DESK, to dream bike: the Schwinn Orange idea, reports Bike Magazine. He’d the American Academy of Pediatrics: Commissioner Gordon ward off commie nukes. Krate, the greatest five-speed bike in heard about a new youth trend the history of childhood. “a source of pride and a symbol of centered in California: retrofitting Such a bike sold for $95 when it independence and freedom.” Katy Times

Phone: (281) 391-3141 letter, as well as their address Fax: 281-391-2030 and telephone number for verification purposes. Letters Erica Baskin | Publisher can be submitted via e-mail to R. Hans Miller | Senior reporter [email protected]. Dennis Silva II | Sports editor Sandra Sadek | Editorial Intern SUBSCRIPTION RATES Victoria Parker | Designer The Katy Times (ISSN 067-180) Debbie Prejean | Bookkeeper is published on Thursday for Tom Hruska | Sales representative $35 per year in Harris,Waller and Fort Bend Counties and OFFICE HOURS: $45 elsewhere by The Katy 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday - Friday Times, 5507 Morton Road, Ste. 5507 Morton Road, Ste. 103 103, Katy, TX 77493 Periodical- Katy, TX 77493 rate postage paid at Katy, TO REPORT NEWS: Texas 77494. Call (281) 391-3141or email [email protected] CORRECTIONS: We strive for accuracy and TO REPORT SPORTS SCORES: transparency in our reporting. email [email protected] If you believe that we have made a factual error in ADVERTISING: reporting, please call (281) For information on 391-3141 or email editor@ advertising in the Katy Times, katytimes.com with a link to in print or online, contact us the story in question, along at (281) 391-3141 or email with information on what you [email protected]. believe is factually incorrect Advertising deadline is noon in the reporting. Individual on Friday for both classified columns in the Katy Times and retail advertising. do not necessarily reflect the BILLING: newspaper’s editorial opinion. Address billing inquiries to: Debbie Prejean, Bookkeeper CIRCULATION: [email protected] Address billing inquiries at 281-391-3141. PRESS RELEASES: Press releases are accepted POSTMASTER: but are not guaranteed for Send address changes to The publication. Press releases Katy Times, P.O. Box 678, Katy, should be e-mailed only to Texas, 77492-0678. [email protected]. ABOUT OUR NEWSPAPER: LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: The Katy Times is a member We encourage your Letters of the Texas Press Association. to the Editor submissions, The weekly newspaper is but we reserve the right published every Thursday. to edit for content and for Visit our Web site 24 hours space restrictions. All letters a day, seven days a week at must contain the full name www.katytimes.com for more of the person who wrote the news and information. THE KATY TIMES NEWS THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2020 5 KATYTIMES.COM ICE ordered to release migrant children By MEENA VENKATARAMANAN “are ‘on fire’ and there is no more County Residential Center in Amy Maldonado, an attorney who have tested positive for COVID-19 THE TEXAS TRIBUNE time for half measures.” Her order Karnes City. works with detained families, told while in ICE custody, the AP mandated that by July 17, the af- At the Karnes City facility, ICE the Associated Press. reported. ICE has said it has As the coronavirus spreads in fected children and their parents reported 11 children and parents Gee’s order does not direct- released more than 900 detainees detention centers, a federal judge be released from the centers or have tested positive for COVID-19, ly apply to parents, but most with increased medical risks and ordered the release of migrant sent to live with family sponsors. and in Dilley, at least three indi- parents at the detention centers de-densified the detainee popula- children held for more than 20 In May, Immigration and viduals, including a two-year-old, last month refused to designate tions at the three family detention days at three family detention Customs Enforcement said it was have been placed in isolation after a different family sponsor for centers in Texas and Pennsylva- centers in Texas and Pennsylva- detaining 184 migrant children two private contractors and an their children upon the children’s nia. But according to the agency nia, the Associated Press reported along with their parents at these ICE official tested positive. release, leading ICE to establish in May, most people in family de- June 26. three centers, which include the “[ICE needs] to make the “routine parole reviews” for chil- tention are considered flight risks District Judge Dolly Gee wrote South Texas Family Residential sensible choice and release the dren and their parents. because of pending deportation in an order that detention centers Center in Dilley and the Karnes parents to care for their children,” More than 2,500 detainees orders or cases under review.

VOTING from page 1 POLL POSITIONS NEEDED DOCUMENTATION With the number of runoff AND APPLICATION PROCESS ly serves as constable for Fort Bend County elections underway, voting Precinct 4. information that is easy to find is Executed and notarized complete application including true and correct J.J. Clemence is facing James Pressler important. Voters in Harris and Fort statement. in the runoff election for the Republican Bend Counties may vote at any nomination to the Fort Bend County Tax polling location countywide, while THE APPLICATION WILL INCLUDE: Assessor-Collector. Waller voters should vote in their • Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) or State Identifier Fort Bend Democrats are looking at assigned voting locations. To find • Document monthly revenue for March, April & May 2019 vs 2020 or if multiple runoffs as well. an appropriate polling location, not in business all of 2019, monthly revenue for January, February & March For the U.S. Senator position, MJ Hegar visit the websites below. 2020 compared to March, April & May 2020. • Gross Revenues for 2019 (Profit and Loss Statement, Schedule C, or is facing Texas Senator Royce West in a race similar documentation will suffice). If not in business all of 2019, use a that will have the winner of the runoff fac- FORT BEND COUNTY ELECTIONS: projection of annual income based on the three months preceding the Stay ing incumbent John Cornyn (R – Austin). at Home Order on April 3, 2020 WEBSITE: https://www. The Railroad Commissioner race has Ro- • Expenses for 2019. If not in business all of 2019, use a projection of fortbendcountytx.gov/ berto R. “Beto” Alonzo facing Christa Cas- annual income based on the three months preceding the Stay at Home government/departments/ taneda. The Railroad Commission’s name Order on April 3, 2020 county-services/elections-voter- is not indicative of its function which has • A brief description of how the grant would be used and how COVID-19 registration shifted away from managing railways and has impacted operations. PHONE: 281-341-8670 is now primarily involved in regulating the • Any information that will be helpful to the reviewer for approval of your EMAIL: [email protected] energy markets and reserves for the state. application The seventh seat for the 14th Court of • Last 2 or most recent payroll statements for all employees, indicating Appeals which has jurisdiction over Fort HARRIS COUNTY ELECTIONS: the number of employees WEBSITE: www.HarrisVotes.com Bend, Harris and Waller Counties is on • Rent/Lease Agreements or Mortgage Statement (if using for these funds) HELPLINE: 713-755-6965 • Recipients must certify that the funds will be used for approved the ballot for the entire Katy area. Tamike EMAIL: [email protected] “Tami” Craft is facing Cheri Thomas for the purposes and that they are not receiving assistance for these items from another source. party’s nomination to face the Republican WALLER COUNTY incumbent, Ken Wise. • Authorization for a FICO report ELECTIONS: • State of Texas Franchise Account Tax Status dated in June 2020. This can Kali Morgan and Surrendran K. Pattel WEBSITE: https://www.co.waller. will face off for the Democratic nomina- be obtained through the Texas Comptroller’s office. Use the following link to tx.us/page/Front%20Page obtain the form needed for your grant application. https://comptroller.texas. tion for Texas’ 505th Judicial District and PHONE: 979-826-7643 gov/ Under Business Center Look Up/Franchise Account Status. a chance to face incumbent Republican EMAIL: [email protected] • Copy of valid Driver’s License or a valid government-issued photo ID. Judge David Perwin.

Harris County Republicans in Harris County have Pritesh Gandhi will be facing Mike Siegel in Receipts and documentation for all multiple races including a seat in the a runoff to determine who will face incum- GRANT eligible expenditures must be submitted U.S. House of Representatives, a Court of bent Michael McCaul (R – Austin) who has from page 1 for audit purposes within three months Appeals judge’s seat, Harris County Sheriff been in office since 2004. of loan disbursement or funds. Funds and a Justice of the Peace for Precinct Five. Katy area voters living near Addicks Res- tional in Fort Bend County for at least dispersed that were not documented Harris voters will also vote either for Hegar ervoir will participate in a runoff election one year, or at a minimum through would need to be repaid within 30 days or West for the U.S. Senator position, as well between Akilah Bacy and Jenifer Rene Pool December 30, 2020. of notice of ineligibility. as in the race for Railroad Commissioner. for the Texas House District 138 Democrat- The judge’s seat competition between ic nomination. The winner will face Re- Craft and Thomas noted in the Fort Bend publican candidate Lacey Hull. Incumbent portion of this story will also be voted on by Dwayne Bohac (R) has opted not to run for since COVID. So, it impacts us financially, Harris residents. reelection. PASTOR but we still get a joy out of giving out the Paul Day and Joe Danna are fighting from page 1 food,” said Vaughn. for a chance at the office of Harris County Waller County With the help of family members like Sheriff. The winner of the runoff will face Republicans have a two-race ballot this do, it all stems around helping people,” her husband and daughter as well as some Democratic incumbent Ed Gonzalez in time around with only one race on the Vaughn said. few dedicated volunteers, the business November. remained afloat and continues to give out GOP ticket. In addition to the First Court The only problem with businesses Terry Adams is facing James Lom- food and necessities to those who need it. of Appeals race, a candidate for sheriff will like Help a Sister Out is that they rely on bardino for a chance to run against Dem- “Just to see the happy faces when also be chosen. volunteers and donations to keep the place ocratic nominee Amparo Monique Guerra people come in to get their food and just Republican candidates for Waller Coun- running, Vaughn said. for the First Court of Appeals. to see the girls when they complete the ty Sheriff on the run0ff ticket include -in “I faced a lot of obstacles as far as having Russ Ridgway is facing Mike Wolfe in program and make an impact in their lives cumbent R. Glenn Smith and Troy Guidry. people to volunteer. Keeping supplies, a runoff for Harris County Justice of the and change in their family’s lives. That’s the The winner will go up against Democratic you know, keeping the food pantry open,” Peace for Precinct 5, Place 1. most important thing. Just helping people,” nominee Cedric Watson in November. Vaughn said. Democrats in Harris County face a few Vaughn said. Additional coverage of this race is available Even during the pandemic, the store is Despite the challenges COVID-19 more decisions. Countywide, there are 14 at www.katytimes.com. still looking for donations and volunteers as Democratic runoffs taking place, though brings, Help a Sister is continuing to assist The Democratic ticket is a bit longer for well as attention from the public. Brook- the community on all days of the week only a portion of those will be voted on by Waller voters with four political competi- shire is a community in need, said Vaughn, except Sunday with healthy hygiene prac- Katy area residents. tions to determine candidates for Congress, that not a lot of people know about. Vaughn tices. In the wake of County Commissioner for the U.S. House of Representatives, railroad herself was raised in Brookshire and holds “We’re wiping down furniture, the Precinct 3 Steve Radack announcing his de- commissioner and a judge’s position for the a personal connection to the town. counter tops and social distancing. When- parture from the seat he’s held since 1988, 14th Court of Appeals District, Place 7. “Brookshire is a town that really, really ever we do food on Tuesdays, we bag it up Democratic opponents Michael Moore and Waller Democrats will participate in the needs the support. So, we need for people ourselves and take it to their cars. And we Diana Martinez Alexander will be vying for race between Hegar and West for U.S. Sen- to come to Brookshire,” said Vaughn. do insist you wear a mask,” said Vaughn. the opportunity to face Republican oppo- ator as noted in the Fort Bend entry above. Financially, it hits especially hard with Vaughn hopes to expand Help a Sister nent Tom Ramsey in November. They’ll also vote between Alonzo and COVID-19, Vaughn said. People stopped Out and place another store in a different The winner of the runoff between Randy Castaneda for Railroad Commissioner and coming in to buy clothes or furniture and town where she can continue to aid those Newman and Mark Alan Harrison will face to see who will face McCaul in the House of with donations and volunteers already who need it but for now, she’s happy mak- Republican incumbent Constable Ted Heap Representatives race. scarce, it becomes a fight to continue ing an impact in Brookshire. of Harris County’s fifth precinct in Novem- The final race on the Democratic ticket serving both the women’s shelter and the “(My favorite thing is) just praying for ber. is the race between Thomas and Craft men- community. people and seeing lives changed. That’s For the House of Representatives, tioned in the Harris County section above. “People haven’t been buying clothes the most important thing,” said Vaughn.

KATY TIMES PET OF THE WEEK MEET ROBIN I’m just a sidekick looking for a partner to help me save the world... or save your yard from squirrels! I’m EXP THE WORLD 3 years old and I’ve got with BVSCU in your pocket. a lot of love to give! I’m neutered, up to BECOME A MEMBER FOR JUST $5 date on vaccines, and microchipped - let’s MOBILE BANKING cruise home in your DEPOSIT ACCOUNTS Batmobile! Meet me and my buddy Bruno LOAN SERVICES at Special Pals!

25425 Kingsland Blvd. | Katy, Texas 77494 Special Pals 281.391.2149 Katy Optiks 3830 Greenhouse Rd, Houston, TX 77084 19626 Saums Road |Houston, Texas 77084 (281) 579-7387 281.398.4813 Wednesday-Sunday 12–4PM Closed Monday & Tuesday 18222 Kingsland Blvd. | Houston, Texas 77094 Enhancing vision with style 281.579.6080 701 S. Fry Rd. Ste. 125 Sponsored by Katy, TX 77450 All loans are subject to credit approval. You must be a member or eligible for membership to qualify. Requirements for eligibility can be found on our website at bvscu.org/about-us/membership-eligibility. 281.492.1209 Rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. Messaging and data rates may apply. Some restrictions may apply on mobile deposit. www.katyoptiks.com THE KATY TIMES 6 THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2020 SPORTS KATYTIMES.COM COVID-19 curveball strikes MLB By JOE SOUTHERN SPECIAL TO THE KATY TIMES

The COVID-19 pandemic has thrown a serious curveball at Ma- jor League Baseball, but the league hit back with plans for a shortened 60-game season that comes with some curves of its own. After shutting down spring training and canceling the first half of the regular season amid the na- tionwide pandemic shutdown, the league last week announced plans to play an abbreviated season. The game, however, will be very different than any season in baseball’s 144-year history. When players report July 1 for Spring Training 2.0, there will be several health and safety protocols in place. Players will be tested for COVID-19 when they arrive and every other day during training camp, the regular season and the postseason. Anyone testing positive will be quarantined until they have two negative tests. Players will be administered temperature and symptom checks twice a day and antibody testing will be done monthly. Most teams will do their training camps at home, including FILE PHOTOS BY JOE SOUTHERN the Houston Astros. The Astros Houston Astros pitcher Zack Greinke pitches against the Washington Nationals in Game 7 of the 2019 World Series at Minute Maid Park. There will not be a regular season rematch between the two teams will also use the ballfields at the this year as Major League Baseball embarks on a COVID-19-shortened 60-game season. University of Houston as their alternate site. The regular season starts July 23. When games resume, initially Any games going into extra designated area at least six feet the players are Astros stars Jose To reduce travel, the schedule there will be no fans in the ballpark, innings will start with a runner apart. They will wear masks in Altuve, George Springer, Car- will include 10 games for each although that could change. on second base. The batter who the dugouts and bullpens at all los Correa, Alex Bregman, Yuli team against its four divisional Teams will begin the season with made the last out in the previous times. Gurriel, Martin Maldonado, Josh opponents (Rangers, Athletics, a 30-man active roster that will be inning (or a pinch-runner) will There will be no spitting, Reddick, and pitchers Justin Angels, Mariners) along with pared down to 28 after two weeks start on second base. chewing tobacco or sunflower Verlander, Zack Greinke, Lance 20 games against the opposite and 26 after a month. The trade The injured list (IL) will be a seeds allowed, although gum is McCullers Jr., and Chris Devenski. league’s corresponding geograph- deadline is Aug. 31 and a player modified a 10-day list for pitchers permitted. There is to be no cele- They will be joined by a num- ical division (for example, the must be on a team’s roster by Sept. and hitters, the 60-day list will bratory contact such as high-fives ber of supporting players such AL West will play the NL West). 15 to be eligible for postseason play. be cut to 45 days, and there will and fist bumps. as Aledmys Diaz, Yordan Alvarez The Astros will play the Rockies, Teams will be allowed up to be a separate list for players with and Kyle Tucker, along with about Diamondbacks, Padres, Giants and three taxi-squad players on the COVID-19 who will not be able to 16 top prospects, among others. Dodgers. It also means there will road, one of which must be a return until they have two nega- Welcome to camp Managing the team will be be no World Series rematch be- catcher. tive tests for the virus. The Astros have named 56 of Dusty Baker, taking over for A.J. tween the Astros and Washington The designated-hitter rule will Team personnel and players the 60 players they can invite to Hinch, who lost his job in the Nationals unless they meet again be used in both the American and not expected to play in the game training camp, presumably with off season when the team’s 2017 in the World Series. National leagues. will sit in the stands or other more to be named later. Among signal-stealing scandal broke. Sugar Land Skeeters launch new league next week By JOE SOUTHERN provider had jerseys for Texas and ones that SPECIAL TO THE KATY TIMES say Eastern on them. “We couldn’t get uniforms turned around From concept to competition, the Sugar in time, so we have to make do with what we Land Skeeters have created a four-team have,” Hill said. league in just four weeks that is set to play professional baseball on Friday, July 10. If you go The Constellation Energy League was set Due to restrictions related to COVID-19, to start this Friday, but on Monday was post- there will be limits on fans who attend the poned a week due to COVID-19 concerns. games. For starters, they will not be able “Due to the rapid rise in COVID-19 cases over the last two weeks, and based on advice to select specific seats. Ticketing agents from our medical advisors, we believe it is will assign seats based on social distancing prudent to delay the start of the season one guidelines, though families will be able to week,” said Skeeters owner Kevin Zlotnik sit together. There will be about 1,800 seats said in a news release. “This is not a decision available for each game, compared to the our organization entered into lightly. We regular capacity of 7,500 fans. have spent weeks meticulously preparing for Fans will have to wear face covering while the schedule we had initially set forth and entering and exiting the ballpark, waking on we look forward to a successful season. But the concourse, getting concessions or when- our overriding priority is the safety of our ever social distancing is not possible. players, fans and staff.” There will be hand sanitizer stations at A revised schedule for the Constellation the gates for entry and exit into Constel- Energy League will be made soon. lation Field as well as other designated “We’ve received all the approvals to open JOE SOUTHERN locations throughout the ballpark. this weekend and remain confident in our Skeeters second baseman Jason Martinson makes the catch to get Long Island Ducks baserunner David Washington out during The cost of parking will be included with safety protocols, but saw no downside in Game 5 of last year’s Atlantic League Championship Series at Constellation Field. The Skeeters are hosting a four-team league every ticket in order to limit contact between delaying one week,” Zlotnik continued. “We for the next two months at the ballpark. fans and Skeeters staff. look forward to seeing everyone on July 10 The playground, splash pad, sport court, and in the meantime encourage our friends and inflatable area will not be open during inaugural 2012 season. He pitched the idea and fans to follow the safety guidelines set guidelines are going to put a limit on team games. The Bud Light Ice House, H-E-B Pic- of the league to Hill, who ran with it. forth by our local officials.” interactions with the fans, meaning no auto- nic Plaza, and Grassland will be open. Each of the four teams in the Constel- “The idea was we couldn’t pull it off until graphs or baseballs thrown into the stands. “We’re trying to keep the experience as lation Energy League were set to play 28 Major League Baseball cut contracts with “This is far more about baseball than safe as we can make it,” Hill said. “We’ve games for a total of 56 games prior to the minor league players,” Hill said. entertainment,” he said. gone above and beyond what the state, postponement. All games will be played in The league is designed to give players county, city, and Memorial Hermann offi- Sugar Land at Constellation Field. sidelined by the COVID-19 pandemic a The teams cials have advised us to do. The safety of our Skeeters manager Pete Incaviglia, the chance to play and hone their skills. For two months the four teams will play fans, and the front office and the players and father-son duo of Roger and Koby Clemens, “We’ve always prided ourselves on each other with doubleheaders on weekends game day staff are of the utmost impor- former Major Leaguer Greg Swindell, and being an organization that gives players and Mondays off. The teams are Skeeters, tance.” former MLB pitching coach and former another chance,” Zlotnik said. “Given the coached by Incaviglia; Sugar Land Lightning Major Leaguer Dave Eiland will coach the unfortunate releases of hundreds of minor Sloths, coached by Swindell; Texas, coached teams. The league will feature a mix of league players over the last few weeks, we by Roger and Koby Clemens; and the East- former Major League and Minor League realized there was a major need for a league ern Reyes el Tigre (Tiger Kings), coached by players. like this. Already, we’ve received commit- Eiland. TICKETS “This was originally (Roger Clemens) ments from guys with great resumes, former “Their mascot will be a tiger with a mul- Tickets range in price from idea,” said Skeeters President Chris Hill. Major Leaguers, former first-rounders, and let,” Hill said. $9 to $49 and are on sale now at Clemens, the former all-star with the high-caliber prospects. I know people are Hill said the names were chosen based sugaralndskeeters.com/tickets or Houston Astros, New York Yankees and going to be really impressed with the quality on the uniforms they had available. Natu- by calling 281-240-4487. Boston Red Sox, made two appearances of play.” rally, they have plenty of uniforms that say with the Skeeters with his son during the Hill said social distancing and other Skeeters and Sugar Land. Their uniform Disaster Relief Discounts Buy an air conditioning and heating system for half price during the month of June only. Plus 18 months no interest financing available upon qualification.

Call Today! 281-394-0031 GoBVS.com TACLA11315E THE KATY TIMES COMMUNITY THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2020 7 KATYTIMES.COM Make an impact while social distancing By BRANDEE MILLER languages and transcribers for those who are SPECIAL TO THE KATY TIMES comfortable in only one language. Sign up and apply at ted.com/participate/translate. Those who want to volunteer but have 5. For those who love to crochet/ been unable to do so in the past few months knit, Warm Up America! accepts sections, may have been feeling a bit lost. It’s difficult to finished afghans and accessories year-round know how to reach out without having direct for various projects. They also have groups personal contact with those who most need with specific needs listed on warmupamerica. the help. Here are 10 ways for people of all org/make/current-needs/ ages to lend a helping hand. 6. Do Something is a nonprofit exclusively 1. Volunteer Match offers virtual and for young people and offers chances to win on-site opportunities locally and around the scholarships as well. Their projects for social country. Opportunities range from graphic change offer young people a chance to make design to app creation to tutoring online and impact in the world. dosomething.org everything else in between. This site matches 7. Project Gutenberg is a library of over your interests to available volunteer opportu- 60,000 free eBooks. Started in 1971, this site nities. volunteermatch.com offers various ways of volunteering remotely: 2. Color A Smile has pages for children, proofreading eBooks, procuring eligible paper young adults and adults to print, color and books and burning CDs and DVDs for people send to the address listed on their website. without internet access are just a few. http:// They then send them on to those who might www.gutenberg.org/wiki/Gutenberg:Volun- need a bright spot in their day. colorasmile.org teering_for_Project_Gutenberg 3. StoriiTime matches children and se- 8. The United Nations offers various niors for story time. Children read virtually to virtual volunteer opportunities by registering seniors from either a book they have already at youcanleadbn.com/unonline. They need or from a list of free books offered on Storii- teachers, translators, writers and editors, Time.com. This provides reading practice for researchers and organizers. your children and gives seniors a connection 9. If ornithology is your thing, eBird.org of- they might not otherwise have during this fers a free mobile app to help you keep track of time of isolation. your bird lists and photos while contributing 4. TED, an organization that coordi- to science and conservation. www.ebird.org nates short seminars on a variety of topics 10. If you’re social media savvy, you can FILE PHOTO from global warming to advancing STEM in help your favorite local nonprofit organiza- While many people enjoy volunteering because of the direct personal impact, social distancing has made volunteering schools, needs translators for 117 languag- tions by sharing their social media posts and unsafe for some people. Below are ten ways people can make an impact in their community and around the world while es for those who are fluent in two or more any announcements they may have. maintaining social distancing.

This devotional page and directory is made possible by these businesses who encourage all of us to Devotional Page attend worship services. For more information, see our Church Directory Online at www.katytimes.com BAKER’S BOOKS The Katy Times Usually Open: Wed-Fri: 2-6 PM Sat: 10-1PM Directory ofLocal Churches @22237 Katy Frwy., TX (ad revised: 01/03/20) & Houses of Worship

ASSEMBLY OF GOD CHURCH OF CHRIST FAITH WEST CHURCH EL SHADDAI ASAMBLEA DE DIOS CHURCH OF CHRIST - KATY 2225 PORTER ROAD • 281-391-LIFE Your Ad Here! GARY KERR, PASTOR 5610 LILAC STREET • 281-391-8339 5438 E. 5TH STREET • 281-391-7606 THE FELLOWSHIP Call Debbie for more information PASTORS, PETER & ESTELA PINON CINCO RANCH CHURCH OF CHRIST FAMILY LIFE ASSEMBLY OF GOD 6655 S. MASON ROAD • 281-579-3100 22765 WESTHEIMER PARKWAY • 281-395-3950 WWW.THEFELLOWSHIP.ORG 24911 ROESNER ROAD • 281-392-0637 AARON WALLING, MINISTER JERRY EDMONSON, PASTOR 281-391-3141 ALBERT CORTEZ, PASTOR • WWW.FLAG.CHURCH CHURCH OF CHRIST IN FELLOWSHIP BIBLE CHURCH JOURNEY CHURCH BRIDGEWATER 1507 KATY FLEWELLEN RD. • 281-646-1084 541 PIN OAK ROAD, KATY • 281-391-3326 21650 CRESTBROOK COVE DR. KATY, TX 77449 DON GRIFFIN, PASTOR SUNDAY SERVICE AT 10:30 AM FRY ROAD CHURCH OF CHRIST HOSANNA! WWW.JOURNEYCHURCHKATY.COM 2510 FRY ROAD AT FRANZ • 281-578-1897 FUNERAL HOME 17700 CLAY RD. • 281-345-1182 JEREMIAH HILL, LEAD PASTOR BOB PULLIAM JAMES P. BELL, PASTOR Serving Katy and West Houston since 1945 WESTPARK CHURCH OF CHRIST KAINOS COMMUNITY CHURCH BAPTIST MEETING AT FULSHEAR COMMUNITY CENTER (281) 391-2424 19946 SAUMS ROAD • 281-599-1473 1508 East Avenue • Katy, Texas 77493 ANTIOCH MISSIONARY 281-712-1492 JOE AND YOLAND HERRON-PALMORE, Mailing Address: 1415 East Avenue, Suite B • Katy, Texas 77493 BAPTIST CHURCH WWW.WESTPARKCOC.ORG PASTORS 655 DANOVER • 281-391-2263 EPISCOPAL KATY BIBLE CHURCH TYRONE FREEMAN, PASTOR CHURCH OF THE HOLY APOSTLES 2500 AVENUE D BRIDGEWATER BAPTIST CHURCH 1225 W. GRAND PARKWAY SOUTH • 281-392- 281-391-7284 • 281-391-6855 A/C & FRANZ ELEMENTARY 3310 MATT MANCINI, PASTOR Heating 2751 WESTGREEN BLVD. • 281-578-0970 TRUE FIX ST. PAUL’S EPISCOPAL KATY COMMUNITY FELLOWSHIP Lic #TACLB004843E MICHAEL THOMPSON, PASTOR 1936 DREXEL, KATY • 281-391-2785 24102 KINGSLAND BOULEVARD Quality Service for over 42 Years CENTRAL BAPTIST CHURCH REV. MARK WILKINSON 281-391-0099 Living in KATY, Working in KATY & KATY Proud 281-392-9334 MAYDE CREEK TIM BARKER, PASTOR “We’re in Your Neighborhood and 2855 GREENHOUSE ROAD • 281-492-2689 LUTHERAN KINDRED SPIRIT We’ll Be Here When You Need Us” www.truefix.com LARRY MADDOX, PASTOR CROSSPOINT COMMUNITY CHURCH CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP KATY’S FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 700 S. WESTGREEN • 281-398-6464 22025 I-10 W., 281-492-6064 600 PIN OAK • 281-391-1100 PAUL GOEKE, LEAD PASTOR RAMADA LIMITED HOTEL, RM. 306 21715 Kingsland Blvd. Ste. 105 COLEMAN PHILLEY, SR. PASTOR 281-855-3402 • REV. L. R. FURR, PASTOR LIVING WORD Katy Tx, 77450 GOOD NEWS BAPTIST CHURCH EVANGELICAL-LUTHERAN LIFE CHURCH katyteeth.com OF HOUSTON 3700 SOUTH MASON ROAD 2610 GREENBUSCH • 281-395-5433 2502 KATY HOCKLEY CUT-OFF • 281-391-9199 281-392-2300 SAM RUDD, PASTOR M-Th 7am-7pm VIRGIL YEHNERT, PASTOR MEMORIAL LUTHERAN CHRISTS MERCY Fri. 7am-3pm KINGSLAND BAPTIST CHURCH MISSOURI-SYNOD 3506 PORTER RD. Sat. 8am-2pm 20555 KINGSLAND BLVD. • 281-492-0785 3RD ST. & AVE. D, KATY • 281-391-0171 281-391-2273 PASTOR RYAN RUSH JOHN DAVIS WADE CASHION, PASTOR PARKWAY FELLOWSHIP VICTORY OF THE LAMB– NEW HORIZONS 27043 FM 1093 • 281-391-6673 WISCONSIN SYNOD WORD OF FAITH CHURCH WWW.PARKWAYFELLOWSHIP.COM 20351 CINCO RANCH BLVD. @ PEEK RD. 906 AVENUE A (CHAPEL) Your Ad PASTOR: MIKE MCGOWN 281-395-0544 • NATHAN BUEGE, PASTOR 281-391-6770 REDEEMER COMMUNITY CHURCH EDDIE L. STALLWORTH-CHERRY, JR., PASTOR 24201 CINCO RANCH BLVD. • 281-371-21-56 METHODIST NORTHWEST BELIEVERS CHURCH MITCH MAHER, PASTOR FIRST UNITED METHODIST - KATY 5423 E FIFITH STREET • 281-829-8985 Here! RIVER BEND BAPTIST CHURCH 5601 FIFTH STREET • 281-391-2121 LARRY CONNER, PASTOR 26700 FM 1093. • 281-346-2279 DR. RICHARD L. WHITE, SENIOR PASTOR POWERHOUSE CHRISTIAN CENTER Katy Hardware WWW.RIVERBENDC.ORG GRACE FELLOWSHIP 1818 KATYLAND ROAD • 281-391-0095 Call Debbie UNITED METHODIST CHURCH G. F. WATKINS, PASTOR Hardware Store Kay & Mickey Powers, Owners JOHN C. CROWE, PASTOR Your Hometown SECOND BAPTIST CHURCH, 2655 S. MASON ROAD CREEKSIDE COMMUNITY CHURCH 559 Pin Oak Rd. (NEXT TO GREAT S.W. EQUESTRIAN CENTER) MEETING @ WOODCREEK J.H.S • 713-705-4878 for more information Katy, TX 77494 West Campus 19449 KATY FREEWAY • 713-465-3408 281-646-1903 • JIM LEGGETT, PASTOR RESURRECTION CITY CHURCH OF HOLY COVENANT UNITED 281-391-3437 • Fax 281-391-6922 DR. ED YOUNG, PASTOR KATY METHODIST www.katyhardware.com TRI-COUNTY BAPTIST DR. BLANCHARD D. LAYTON, SR., SENIOR PASTOR 281-391-3141 5715 PEEK ROAD • 281-371-3900 22111 MORTON ROAD (AT MASON) • 281-579-1200 MINISTER CRISELDA VALVERDE, RICK SHRADER, PASTOR FRED WILLIS, SENIOR PASTOR ASSISTANT TO THE PASTOR Katy Veterinary Clinic TRINITY BAPTIST CHURCH ST. PETER’S CHURCH SERVICES: 11:30 - 1:00 3 Praise be to the God and Father Serving the Greater Katy Area Since 1964 UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 10000 SPRING GREEN BLVD. 5819 10TH STREET 20775 KINGSLAND BLVD. • 281-492-8031 Kari Cleavinger, D.V.M. • Lori Smith, D.V.M. KATY, TX 77494 CHURCH #: 281-291-8596 of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father DR. PAT SPARKS, PASTOR Hillary Barra, D.V.M. • Catherine Berry, DVM 281-579-6724 • TRINITY-KATY.ORG PASTOR'S CELL 832-332-4687 Jessica Machala, DVM of compassion and the God of all What every PASTOR JOSH GUAJARDO MINISTER’S CELL: 832-335-2552 pet deserves. MORMON 27227 Hwy. Blvd., Katy WESTLAND BAPTIST CHURCH CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF CROSSINGS COMMUNITY CHURCH comfort, Open M-F 7-6 • Sat 8-12 www.katyvetclinic.com 281-391-3169 • 1407 GRAND PARKWAY SOUTH • 281-392-5099 LATTER DAY SAINTS 26100 CINCO RANCH BLVD. KATY, TX 77494 ROY MEADOWS, PASTOR 1928 DREXEL WWW.CROSSINGSCOMMUNITYCHURCH.ORG 4 who comforts us in all our troubles, 1005 Katy Fort Bend Rd. WESTSIDE BAPTIST CHURCH & 281-391-0687 MEETS AT 10:40 AM AT KILPATRICK ELEMENTARY Katy, TX 77493 ACADEMY 281-391-5439 so that we can comfort those in any THE 3883 LAKES OF BRIDGEWATER DR • 281-492- CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF 3448 LATTER DAY SAINTS PENTECOSTAL trouble with the comfort we ourselves TRINITY FAITH CHURCH CARPET EXCHANGE REV. RICHARD D. BUTTS, PASTOR 1603 Norwalk receive from God. 10TH & AVE. D • 281-391-3310 KATY 281-578-8934 DR. PHILLIP AND JILL CELEMENTS, PASTORS Residential & Commercial 281-391-6999 ANGLICAN BISHOP SCOTT BAUER Flooring [email protected] THE CATHEDRAL OF ST. MATTHIAS NOTTINGHAM COUNTRY WARD HERITAGE FAMILY CHURCH 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 2120 KATY HOCKLEY CUTOFF • 281-391-1010 DIOCESE OF MID AMERICA 281-578-8930 MICHAEL FILLMER, PASTOR 4142 DAYFLOWER • 281-463-2304 CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF WWW.HERITAGEFAMILYKATY.ORG GRACE ANGLICAN COMMUNITY LATTER DAY SAINTS 24968 KATY RANCH ROAD, KATY, TEXAS 77494 9950 SOUTH MASON THE PENTECOSTALS OF KATY 281-769-5544 281-398-7796 1941 WESTBOROUGH • 281-829-1175 WWW.GRACEANGLICANKATY.COM ROB MCKEE, PASTOR RECTOR: ROBERT HENSON NAZARENE WESTSIDE CHURCH PRESBYTERIAN CATHOLIC OF THE NAZARENE CORNERSTONE EPIPHANY OF THE LORD CATHOLIC 3434 FRY ROAD • 281-492-0234 EVANGELICAL-PRESBYTERIAN 1530 NORWALK DR. (NOTTINGHAM) • 281-578-0707 REV. KENT SCHWAMBERGER, PASTOR 1351 S. MASON RD. • 281-579-1080 FR. TOM LAM REV. CARTER SANGER, PASTOR ST. BARTHOLOMEW CHURCH NON-DENOMINATIONAL GRAND LAKES PRESBYTERIAN 5356 ELEVENTH ST. • 281-391-4758 CHURCH ON THE ROCK 6035 S. FRY RD. FR. CHRISTOPHER PLANT, PASTOR 433 S. BARKER CYPRESS • 281-599-9777 REV. DEAN POGUE, PASTOR ST. EDITH STEIN CATHOLIC JORGE H. CARDENAS, PASTOR 281-646-7500 COMMUNITY BELIEVERS’ WORLD OUTREACH CHURCH NEW HOPE PRESBYTERIAN 3311 N. FRY ROAD • 281-492-7500 1600 WOODS ROAD • 888-334-BWOC(2962) 1350 N. MASON ROAD • 281-492-8520 REV. RYSZARD KULMA, PASTOR TOMMY AND RACHEL BURCHFIELD, PASTOR REV. BRIAN LONG CHRIST CHURCH PCA When the cares CHRISTIAN THE EMPOWERMENT CENTER 10818 GASTON ROAD FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH 20910 PARK ROW 281-392-0002 of my heart (Disciples of Christ) 281-578-3535 REV. FRED GRECO, SENIOR PASTOR are many, 22101 MORTON ROAD • 281-492-2693 DAVID ROBERSON, PASTOR REV. HEATHER TOLLESON, MINISTER FAITH MANGER CHURCH SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST your consolations Your Computer Help Expert CURRENT-A CHRISTIAN CHURCH 20701 KINGSLAND BLVD. @ DOMINION SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH cheer my soul. 26600 WESTHEIMER PKWY • 281-395-4722 281-578-2550 1913 EAST AVENUE• 281-398-1301 www.xpernet.com DARREN WALTER, MINISTER DAVID L. BROWN, PASTOR PASTOR RICHARD DEVOST Psalms 94:19 • Printing/Copies Keller & Sadler, CPA’s KellerA Partnership & ofSadler, Professional Corporations CPA’s • Office Supplies A Partnership of Professional Corporations Office: 281-392-5744 • Fax Service Office: 281-392-5744 1260 Pin Oak Rd., Suite 114 Office:Fax: 281-392-5818 281-392-5744 5807 Hwy Blvd., Katy 1260 Pin Oak Rd., Suite 114 Fax: 281-392-5818 Katy,1260 TX Pin 77494 Oak Rd., Suite 114 Steve@kellerandFax: 281-392-5818sadlercpas.com Katy, TX 77494 [email protected] katyprinters.com • 281-391-7072 Katy, TX 77494 [email protected] Believe 8 n THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2020 n THE KATY TIMES Call 281-391-3141 or visit www.katytimes.com to place your ad today! CLASSIFIEDSYour Classiﬁ ed Ad Source In Print & Online! WORD AD RATE DEADLINES $23.00 per week for 15 words. Each additional word $1.55 Display Ads ...... Friday noon Word Ads ...... Monday noon

REAL June 25 PUBLIC PUBLIC PUBLIC PUBLIC PUBLIC PUBLIC ESTATE NOTICES NOTICES NOTICES NOTICES NOTICES NOTICES 2000 SQ FT, 4 Puzzle Answers bedroom, 3 bath, NOTICE TO BIDDERS NOTICE TO BIDDERS fireplace, kitch- Owner: Mason Creek Utility District Sealed proposals for the HARDSCAPE PHASE 1 TO en island, granite SERVE KATY CITY HALL PLAZA will be received at City downstairs bar, Owner’s Office: 847 Dominion, Katy, TX 77450 of Katy City Hall, 901 Avenue C, Katy, Texas 77493, until located in quiet Project (the Work): Furnish, deliver and install smart water 2:00 p.m., Thursday, July 16, 2020. neighborhood in meters; provide related goods and services; and provide, The Owner is the City of Katy, Texas. Crystal Beach, by service agreement, an automatic water meter reading Tx by School. For system with Internet portal; all as further described The City of Katy will hold a non-mandatory audio/web more information, in the Contract Documents. pre-bid conference at 2:00 p.m., Thursday, July 9, 2020. call 936-488- Project location: In Western Harris County, Texas The Dial-In number for the non-mandatory Pre-Bid 1314. generally bounded by IH 10, Fry Road, Kingsland Blvd. Conference is 713.358.8400, Access Code 0877892. ----- and Westgreen Blvd. and on the Internet The successful bidder(s) will be required to enter into a PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: contract with the Owner. All real estate advertising in this Owner proposes to let a contract for the Project and seeks newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal bids. Generally, bids must be signed, sealed and physically to advertise “any preference, limita- A Cashier’s Check or Certified Check payable, without tion or discrimination based on race, submitted at Owners Office by July 17, 2020 at 11:00 AM, recourse, to the Owner or an acceptable Surety Proposal color, religion, sex, handicap, familial when they will be opened and publicly read, all in accordance status or national origin, or an inten- Bond, in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of tion or discrimination.” Familial status with the Contract Documents, which are: (i) on file at the includes children under the age of 18 the largest possible total bid, including consideration of living with parents or legal custodians, Owner’s Office where all bidders may examine them and pregnant women and people securing alternates, must accompany each bid as a guarantee that, if custody of children under 18. get copies; (ii) incorporated herein by reference, including This newspaper will not knowingly awarded the contract, the Bidder will promptly enter into a accept any advertising for real estate prevailing wages; and (iii) posted on civcastusa.com. A which is in violation of the law. Our contract and execute bonds in forms provided as outlined readers are hereby informed that all pre-bid conference is set for July 10, 2020 at 11:00 AM at dwellings advertised in this newspaper in the Contract Documents. Performance Bond, Payment are available on an equal opportunity the Operations Center, 851 Dominion, Katy, Texas 77450 basis. To complain of discrimination Bond, and Maintenance Bond, in an amount of one call HUD toll-free at 1-800-669-9777. (also accessible by telephone conference at 800-719-8139; The toll-free telephone number for the hearing conference code 447079). /s/ Len Forsyth, Project Officer. hundred percent (100%) of the contract price will be impaired is 1-800-927- 9275. required. For public projects, not less than the minimum wage rates as prescribed in the General Conditions must be paid. The Owner reserves the right to reject any and all bids, and to waive any informalities in bids. Copies of the Specifications may be obtained upon payment of One Hundred Dollars ($100.00 non-refundable plus cost of delivery) ($50.00 for electronic copy) for each set of documents at LJA Engineering, Inc., 3600 W. Sam Houston Pkwy. S., Suite 150, Houston, Texas 77042 or at https://bids.lja.com. Bidders must register on this website to download bidding documents.

MISC. MISC. MISC. MISC. MISC. MISC. MISC. MISC. MISC. OIL, GAS, & WE BUY MINERAL RIGHTS Both non-producing and producing including Non-Participating Royalty Interest (NPRI) TexSCAN Week of INSURANCE Provide us your desired price for an offer evaluation. June 28, 2020 Attention Insurance Agents – we buy health and life CALL TODAY: 806.620.1422 ACREAGE renewals. Cash up quickly. For information, call or text LOBO MINERALS, LLC 972-898-4616, [email protected]. PO Box 1800 • Lubbock, TX 79408-1800 Hunting/investment/recreational property. We [email protected] have some of the best in Texas! From the Hill Country INTERNET (Edwards, Menard, Coke, Val Verde County, free AT&T Internet. Starting at $40/month w/12-mo ranging exotics) to South Texas (Kinney, Duval, Live agmt. Includes 1 TB of data per month. Get More For Donate A Boat Oak County, whitetail, hogs). Large or small acreage. Your High-Speed Internet Thing. Ask us how to bundle 30-year fixed rate owner financing, only 5% down. and SAVE! Geo & svc restrictions apply. Call us today or Car Today! Call toll-free or email for individual prices and terms, 1-855-439-5457. www.ranchenterprisesltd.com, 800-876-9720. MAINTENANCE “2-Night Free Vacation!” CHARITY Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the Donate a boat or car today to Boat Angel. 2-Night Free most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. 800-700- BOAT(2628) Vacation. Sponsored by Boat Angel Outreach Centers (2628) Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 15% off www.boatangel.com to stop crimes against children. 800-700-BOAT, www. and 0% financing for those who qualify. PLUS Senior sponsored by boat angel outreach centers STOP CRIMES AGAINST CHILDREN boatangel.com. & Military Discounts. Call 1-855-815-5722. EMPLOYMENT OIL AND GAS RIGHTS Lateral Police Officer, Jackson WY, $54,144 - We buy oil, gas & mineral rights. Both non- producing $78,445 DOQ. Up to $350/mo Spanish fluency. and producing including non-Participating Royalty $15,000 signing/stay bonus. Advancement Interest (NPRI). Provide us your desired price for an program, take home car, rental assistance & offer evaluation. 806-620-1422, LoboMineralsLLC@ housing provided. Testing July 7 and 8. Visit: gmail.com. Lobo Minerals, LLC, PO Box 1800, @katytimessports www.jacksonwy.gov/jobs Deadline: Friday, July 2 Lubbock, TX 79408-1800. DFWP/EEOP. MEDICAL GENERATORS Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by GENERAC Standby Generators. The weather is Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the increasingly unpredictable. Be prepared for power compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. outages. FREE 7-year extended warranty ($695 Free information kit! Call 866-747-9983. value!). Schedule your FREE in-home assessment today. Call 1-855-704-8579. Special financing for Life Alert. One press of a button sends help FAST, qualified customers. 24/7! At home and on the go. Mobile Pendant with GPS. FREE First Aid Kit (with subscription.) CALL HUNTING 844-831-1525. FREE Brochure. Lease Your Land for Hunting. Prepaid annual DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual lease payments. $5M liability insurance. We handle Insurance Company. NOT just a discount plan, REAL everything for you. Base Camp Leasing, 866-309-1507, coverage for 350 procedures. Call 1-855-901-0467 for www.basecampleasing.com. details. www.dental50plus.com/txpress. 6118-0219... Texas Press Statewide Classified Network 273 Participating Texas Newspapers • Regional Ads FIND US ON Start At $250 • Email [email protected] NOTICE: While most advertisers are reputable, we cannot guarantee products or services advertised. We urge readers to use caution and when in doubt, contact the Texas Attorney General at 800-621-0508 or the TWITTER Federal Trade Commission at 877-FTC-HELP. The FTC web site is www.ftc.gov/bizop. THE KATY TIMES TEXAS THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2020 9 KATYTIMES.COM Alcohol-serving establishments restricted By ED STERLING CAPITAL HIGHLIGHTS “As I said from Gov. Greg Abbott ordered the state to slow down the reopening the start, if the process for bars and other venues as coronavirus-related infec- positivity rate tions, hospitalizations and deaths continued to increase in Texas last rose above week. “As I said from the start, if the 10%, the State positivity rate rose above 10%, the State of Texas would take further of Texas would action to mitigate the spread of COVID-19,” Abbott said. “At this time, it is clear that the rise in cases take further is largely driven by certain types of activities, including Texans con- action to mitigate gregating in bars.” Abbott ordered bars and other the spread of state-licensed establishments that receive more than 51% of COVID-19. At this their gross receipts from the sale of alcoholic beverages to close time, it is clear at noon on June 26, but allowed them to continue offering delivery that the rise in and take-out services until further notice. cases is largely The governor allowed restaurants, beginning June 29, to remain FILE PHOTO driven by certain open for dine-in service, but at a Tex. Gov. Greg Abbott issued an order slowing down and reversing some of the reopening process across the state after COVID-19 case numbers capacity not to exceed 50% of total skyrocketed for several days in a row. types of activities, listed indoor occupancy. Also notably, the governor including Texans In related news, Abbott issued an Conversely, from June 1-6 the U.S. Army Futures Command, ordered rafting and tubing busi- executive order on June 25 prohib- Texas Democratic Party held its Austin; Corpus Christi Army nesses to close and that outdoor congregating iting elective surgeries at hospitals convention in fully online mode Depot; Corpus Christi Naval gatherings of 100 or more people in Bexar, Dallas, Harris and Travis to minimize health risks related to Air Station; Laughlin Air Force obtain the approval of local gov- in bars.” counties. The order, intended to the coronavirus pandemic. Base, Del Rio; Fort Bliss, El Paso; ernments before the event. make more hospital beds available Naval Air Station Fort Worth Joint While stopping short of issuing — GOV. GREG ABBOTT to potential influxes of COVID-19 Reserve Base; and Ellington Field, a statewide order for Texans to Study: Impact of military patients, directs all hospitals in Houston. wear nose-and-mouth-covering A study conducted by the those counties to postpone sur- Also, Fort Hood, Killeen; Naval masks in public, Abbott did say comptroller’s office estimates geries and procedures that are not Air Station Kingsville; Goodfel- every Texan “has a responsibility that military installations in Texas The action leaves in place an immediately, medically necessary. low Air Force Base, San Angelo; to themselves and their loved ones contributed at least $123 billion order issued by the U.S. Court to wear a mask, wash their hands, Cumulative figures posted June to the state economy in 2019 and Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, stay six feet apart from others in 28 by the Texas Department of supported more than 630,000 Houston-Lackland Air Force blocking the lower court ruling. public and stay home if they can.” State Health Services showed some direct and indirect jobs. Base-Randolph Air Force Base; “Universal mail-in ballots, which Meanwhile, after news that the 148,728 COVID-19 cases reported In a June 22 joint news release Red River Army Depot, Texarka- are notoriously vulnerable to Trump administration planned and 2,393 confirmed deaths result- with the governor’s office, Comp- na; and Sheppard Air Force Base, fraud, would only lead to greater to cut funding for COVID-19 ing from the disease in the Lone Star troller Glenn Hegar said the mili- Wichita Falls. election fraud and disenfranchise testing stations in Texas and other State. tary’s impact on the state economy lawful voters,” Paxton said. states, Abbott announced that the “can be felt by every Texan.” Paxton cheers SCOTUS Texas Democratic Party Chair federal government had granted Meeting methods contrast Gov. Abbott said, “Now more A request by the Texas Dem- Gilberto Hinojosa said, however: his request to extend operations Plans are in place for the than ever, these jobs add critical ocratic party and other plaintiffs “The case proceeds on in other fil- of community-based testing sites Republican Party of Texas to hold stability for communities focused to have a San Antonio U.S. district ings before the U.S. Supreme Court across Texas. The expansion is its convention July 16-18 at the on economic recovery following court ruling reinstated that would and the Fifth Circuit, and therefore aimed particularly at Dallas and George R. Brown Convention the COVID-19 pandemic.” allow all registered voters to vote hope remains that the federal Houston, where the spread of the Center in Houston. Some 6,000 Military installations listed in by mail instead of in person was courts will restore equal voting deadly, influenza-like disease delegates are expected to attend in the news release include: denied June 26 by U.S. Supreme rights in time for the November surged in recent days. person. Dyess Air Force Base, Abilene; Court Justice Samuel Alito. elections.” Cajun Catfish Mondays 3:00 – 7:00 pm All You Can Eat for $10.99 $100,000 Local Stimulus Grant Matching grants available to local small businesses Kathy’s The Katy Times has set aside $100,000 in matching grant money to help local businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Shrimp

• Businesses can apply for up to $7,500 in grants to be used on advertising campaigns in May, June and July. Boil • Preference given to locally owned and operated businesses. from 5-9pm • Apply at katytimes.com/stimulusgrant.html or look for the ad on our website. (every Friday) for $10.50 lb More people than ever before have turned to our includes corn and potato newspaper and website for news and information. with every pound. We believe this is the perfect time to do our part to lend a hand as our business community works to reopen.

Katy Times 9027 S.E. I 10 Frontage Rd. • Sealy, Texas 77474 281-391-3141 • www.katytimes.com 979-987-6077 THE KATY TIMES 10 THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2020 TEXAS KATYTIMES.COM Officials consider changing sex ed policy By ALIYYA SWABY ly advocates have successfully THE TEXAS TRIBUNE kept information on birth control and sexually transmitted disease For the first time since 1997, prevention out of textbooks for Texas education officials will decades. consider a new statewide sexual As more school districts adopt education policy, and it could more robust sexual education include teaching middle school- curricula, Texas Values, a conserva- ers about birth control options tive statewide advocacy group, has beyond abstinence. organized campaigns to fight back. That proposed revision to the Most recently, it led a group of de- state’s health education standards tractors to speak out against Austin is expected to draw crowds of Independent School District’s pro- people — albeit virtually — to posed curriculum for grades three Monday’s State Board of Educa- through eight, which included tion meeting, where members will topics like gender identity, repro- take public comment and discuss ductive anatomy and body image, the changes. Work groups of tailored for each grade. The school educators and experts have been board unanimously approved the working for months preparing curriculum. recommendations for how the Re- “Leftist LGBT advocacy groups publican-dominated board should are calling this a ‘once in-a-gener- revise its standards. ation opportunity’ to attack Texas’ At what is likely to be a abstinence focused approach and high-tension online hearing, teach highly sexualized LGBT pro- advocates for comprehensive paganda starting in kindergarten,” sexual education plan to laud read a Texas Values email blast sent the recommendation to teach abstinence-plus education earlier; to subscribers Friday. Texas Values is also urging opponents will say the proposals PU YING HUANG FOR THE TEXAS TRIBUNE go too far beyond abstinence to board members to exclude health Texas public schools are not required to teach sexual education. State law requires that schools teaching sex ed stress abstinence. Parents can opt their standards teaching students be legal. The board is expected to children out of any lesson they want. make a final decision by Novem- about gender identity or sexual ber, setting the stage for how orientation. “Teaching children to teachers and textbook publishers abstinence-plus sex education in marriage.” Currently that is only a high school,” said Jen Biundo, question the biological reality of will approach the controversial 2015-16. At the same time, federal requirement in high school, where director of policy and data for the their gender or engage in danger- subject for years to come. data shows Texas consistently has health education is an optional Texas Campaign to Prevent Teen ous sexual behavior at a young age Texas public schools are not one of the highest teen birth rates course. All Texas public schools Pregnancy. is not the job of Texas schools,” said required to teach sexual edu- in the country, which studies show must offer health education for The organization conducted a Mary Elizabeth Castle, a Texas Val- cation. State law requires that correlates with an emphasis on students in kindergarten through public opinion poll with the firm ues policy adviser, in a statement to schools teaching sex ed stress abstinence-only education. eighth grade. Baselice & Associates, which shows The Texas Tribune. abstinence as the preferred choice This year, the board will Advocates for comprehensive that 75% of poll respondents, Advocacy groups like Texas for unmarried young people and consider requiring all seventh sexual education consider the pro- including 68% of Republicans, Freedom Network and Texas Cam- spend more time on it than any and eight grade health teachers posed change a win and will rally support teaching sexual education paign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy other sexual behavior. Parents can to “analyze the effectiveness and for the board to approve it. “If we that prioritizes abstinence but also are asking the board to include opt their children out of any lesson ineffectiveness of barrier pro- include basic information about provides information about contra- LGBTQ students in the standards. they want. tection and other contraceptive topics like contraception and STI ception and STI prevention. The existing standards and the pro- According to a Texan Freedom methods, including the prevention [sexually transmitted infection] The state board last took up the posed revisions make no explicit Network study, just 17% of school of sexually transmitted diseases, prevention at the middle school health standards in 1997 and then mention of those students, who districts, including some of the keeping in mind the effective- level, we know students will have adopted abstinence-only health are more likely to be discriminated state’s most populous, taught ness of remaining abstinent until some exposure to that before textbooks in 2004. Abstinence-on- against and bullied in their schools. TX GOP moving forward with indoor convention By MEENA VENKATARAMANAN attendees, roughly half of what it would ex- office of Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, contract with the Republican Party of Texas THE TEXAS TRIBUNE pect for such a convention in normal times, who issued the mask order. that was signed before the pandemic began. according to Whatley. The party’s website That order expires Tuesday, and Dickey “HFC does not have the authority to As the coronavirus pandemic engulfs brands its annual convention as the “largest said the party will “revisit” the mask issue require masks to be worn by attendees at the Texas’ metropolitan areas, Republican Gov. political gathering in the free world.” during another tele-town hall next month Republican State Convention, unless included Greg Abbott has left the door open for mas- Whatley said registrations are “increasing before the convention. in the original license agreement,” Carolyn sive indoor gatherings. And organizers are exponentially” as the convention nears. Abbott’s office did not respond to a request Campbell, a spokesperson for Houston First, moving forward with some big ones, includ- David Lakey, the former commissioner for comment Thursday. wrote in a statement. “Since this agree- ing the Texas Republican Party’s upcoming of the Texas Department of State Health Ser- Lakey, the state’s former top public health ment was issued prior to the pandemic, no convention in Houston. vices, said he believes large indoor gatherings official, said masks are effective at reducing such provision was included, therefore any Harris County, where Houston is locat- of more than 100 people are not advisable at the spread of the virus. enforcement of the new mask order would ed, has the highest number of coronavirus this time. “If you have a convention where there’s a be the responsibility of the Republican State cases and deaths in the state, but the Texas “I think, right now, I wouldn’t hold a large number of people inside, sitting close Convention.” GOP plans to press forward with plans to group larger than 100 individuals,” he said. “I to each other, especially without masks, then The party is making several adjustments to hold an in-person convention from July 16- think people need to be very cautious about no one should be surprised that there will be hold the convention safely. Dickey promised 18 in the city’s George R. Brown Convention making — especially in the month of July — people that will get infected in that setting,” an “abundance” of hand-sanitizer stations and Center. any plans for a big conference.” he said. said rooms will be cleaned between meetings. “All systems are go, folks. This is happen- The party does not plan to require masks Lakey added that outdoor settings are safer Whatley said the convention center has in- ing,” Kyle Whatley, the party’s executive di- at the convention, though chairman James than indoor venues. stalled thermal scanners at its entrances to take rector, said Tuesday during a tele-town hall, Dickey acknowledged Tuesday that Harris “When you’re outdoors, you have UV light, the temperature of attendees as they walk in. noting the convention program is already County is currently under an order mandat- and you also have the wind that’s going to “Our decision to hold an in-person con- being printed. ing that businesses require customers to wear disperse any respiratory droplets,” he said. vention comes as a direct result of wanting On Tuesday, Abbott granted local offi- masks. “And so, in general, people believe that being to protect the rights of our delegates as the cials the power to restrict outdoor gatherings “The Republican Party isn’t considered a outside is less risky than being inside.” grassroots of our Party, as well as to lead the of more than 100 people, but made no men- commercial entity so they themselves are not The Houston First Corporation, which way in promoting and practicing our principle tion of indoor gatherings. The Texas GOP required to comply with the mask order,” said operates the George R. Brown Convention of personal responsibility,” Dickey wrote in a convention is expected to draw about 6,000 Melissa Arredondo, a spokesperson for the Center, said it is legally obligated to honor a statement.

Neurological Association. These Yancey said recovery time dime. … It’s completely untrue,” in fragrance-free hypoallergenic MASK could include dizziness, head- increases with challenges such as Yancey said. detergent, because perfumes that from page 1 aches and strokes, among other lung infections that can occur as Yancey also said that the test smell great in most detergents (for health complications. the lungs are healing, and recovery used to diagnose COVID-19 is a person with lung disease) could Yancey of Memorial Hermann Katy COVID-19 presents financial is slow even without complica- specific to the SARS-CoV-2 virus facilitate an asthma attack,” Yancey Hospital have stressed that, while challenges as well. For a mild tions. rather than detecting all viruses in said. the death rate is low, COVID-19 diagnosed case of COVID-19, prior “We certainly have seen people the coronavirus family. Readers with anxiety-related is- has other serious impacts the pub- to health insurance benefits, treat- who have had relatively mild cases Yancey said, in her medical sues are encouraged to speak with lic should be aware of.. ment has a median cost of $3,045 who have to be in the hospital for a opinion, all people two and older their mental health care provider While Yancey said she is according to a study published few days are still on oxygen weeks should wear a cloth face cover- regarding mask usage. concerned about misinformation by “Health Affairs,” a medical later,” Yancey said. “There are ing in public that they regularly The CDC, World Health Or- about COVID-19 as a disease, its journal. A severe case requiring severe consequences even without wash. The point of the mask isn’t ganization and the Occupational treatment and its prevention that hospitalization has a median cost mortality.” to stop an individual airborne Safety and Health Administration continues to permeate discussions of $14,366. A year after recovery, Yancey said it is important for COVID-19 virus, but to keep saliva all suggest wearing cloth face about the virus. follow up care may bring that total COVID-19 patients to take recov- and respiratory droplets from coverings in public, though OSHA to nearly $19,000. ery time after being discharged. spreading when people speak, cites situations where different More than just deadly Remdesivir, one promising Following their physicians’ sneeze or cough, she said. Yancey masks may need to be worn in the anti-COVID-19 drug, recently instructions and listening when emphasized that with her decades workplace. While the mortality rate for had its public price set at $520 their body tells them to rest are of experience she knew of no phys- “(Cloth masks) are worn in COVID-19 in Texas sits at around per vial, with a five-day treatment important, she said. ical health condition which would public over the nose and mouth 1.5% and globally at about 4.9% of six vials totaling $3,120 before “Give yourself time to recuper- prevent anyone from wearing a to contain the wearer’s potentially of diagnosed cases according to insurance, according to a press ate,” Yancey said. “Now is not the mask. infectious respiratory droplets DSHS and the World Health Orga- release from Gilead, the drug’s time to start marathon training. nization respectively, Yancey said “The general public is being produced when an infected person manufacturer. Rest. Eat. Make sure you’re eating recommended to wear cloth face coughs, sneezes, or talks and to she is concerned about other long- “There aren’t very many viral right. A little activity every day.” term health effects in survivors. coverings,” Yancey said. “The limit the spread of SARS-CoV-2, diseases that we can treat well. general public does not need to be the virus that causes Coronavirus “We don’t know what the long- Most of what we’re doing is just term consequences are going to Fighting misinformation wearing N95 masks. Those are for Disease 2019 (COVID-19), to oth- supporting the body while it recov- Yancey said patients some- health care personnel. They’re for ers,” OSHA’s website says. be, but we’ve certainly seen people ers by itself,” Yancey said. who ultimately have relatively mild times think they should get over specialized situations.” While all public gatherings are a cases who have to be in the hospi- COVID-19 quickly because the Yancey added masks do not concern, Yancey said medical pro- tal for a few days are still on oxygen Treatment and recovery illness isn’t properly understood. present a health risk of carbon di- fessionals are associating spikes in weeks later,” Yancey said. Treatment and recovery take She understands the public is oxide (CO2) buildup or low oxygen COVID-19 cases associated with While the Centers for Disease time, Yancey said. Treatments like frustrated with what seems like in the body. If that were the case, the opening of restaurants and Control and Prevention report remdesivir and convalescent plas- a changing story in the face of she said, medical professionals bars across the Katy area after state about 81% of COVID-19 patients ma are promising but aren’t cures. what is a relatively new virus, but who are currently wearing them restrictions were eased. recover without hospitalization, Convalescent plasma is an she says there are consistencies for eight-hour or longer shifts Yancey also wanted to reassure 19% of patients experience serious investigational treatment coordi- the public should adhere to and would be facing serious health the public that hospitals can serve symptoms that require inpatient nated through the Mayo Clinic, rumors about SARS-CoV-2 that emergencies which simply aren’t non-COVID-19 patients. She said care. Yancey said. It uses plasma from should be disregarded. happening. she had heard reports when the Those who experience severe recovered patients to infuse anti- Yancey said hospitals have not Yancey said it was particularly pandemic first began that patients new coronavirus cases can expe- bodies into those still in treatment. been instructed by the CDC to important for those with breath- weren’t going to the hospital when rience permanent damage to the Yancey said hospitalized report all deaths as new coronavi- ing conditions such as asthma or they needed to because they didn’t lungs, heart and kidneys according COVID-19 patients often need rus-related, despite a widespread COPD to wear cloth masks, or even think there were available resourc- to Advent Health, a faith-based oxygen, but only a low percentage myth online. N95 masks, to protect their more es for them. hospital group. require intubation – an intrusive “I heard that doctors are being sensitive lungs. “We have not had capacity About 45% of hospitalized pa- process which can damage the paid thousands of dollars to label “Anybody who has potential issues,” Yancey said. “Absolutely, if tients may experience neurological vocal chords and usually requires someone (as) a COVID death. I can lung disease, especially asthma, you’re having a hard time, please issues according to the American the patient be sedated. report that I have not been paid a needs to be laundering their mask come to the hospital.”