Stay Home Order Extended Declared Order Also Issued to Release Nonviolent Jail Inmates Major by R

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VOLUME 108, ISSUE 14 THE GREATER KATY AREA'S NEWS SOURCE SINCE 1912 n katytimes.com THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2020 Texas Stay home order extended declared Order also issued to release nonviolent jail inmates major By R. HANS MILLER in our containment and would continue to seek the advice of TIMES SENIOR REPORTER measures – if any- medical professionals and monitor the thing, it’s the time to disease’s progress in other communities for In a March 31 press conference, Harris double down because information that would help her and other disaster County Judge Lina Hidalgo said she was our rates continue community leaders make decisions regard- extending the county’s “Stay Home, Work to grow very, very ing how to move forward. Safe” order to April 30 and would be issuing rapidly, and we’ve not BY ED STERLING an order after the press conference to release CAPITAL HIGHLIGHTS yet gotten to a point of Tracking trends nonviolent inmates from the Harris County flattening the curve,” LINA At the time of the press conference, Har- President Trump on March 25 Jail. Both measures were taken to mitigate the Hidalgo said. HIDALGO ris County’s Public Health Department re- issued a major disaster declara- spread of COVID-19, the disease caused by Hidalgo said she tion for the state of Texas as a re- the Novel Coronavirus. was proud of the community for coming sult of the COVID-19 pandemic. “It is not the time right now to scale back together to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 See ORDER, page A3 Trump’s action came at the request of Gov. Greg Abbott, who is seeking additional federal assistance to combat the disease. In recent days Abbott issued multiple waivers of state laws to remove barriers limiting the response to the pandemic. He also activated the Texas National KISD approves pavilion renovation Guard to be prepared to assist with response efforts. By R. HANS MILLER Abbott said the president’s TIMES SENIOR REPORTER declaration “opens up new sources of funding for individual The Katy ISD Board of Trustees approved and public assistance that will renovation of the old L.D. Robinson Pavilion help Texas respond to this public facility near the Katy ISD Education Support health emergency and protect Complex in downtown Katy at their March public health and safety.” 30 regular meeting. The board also post- Federal aid is earmarked to poned the district’s regular trustee election overcome current and prospec- to Nov. 3 in light of concerns regarding safely tive shortages of personal pro- conducting the election in the face of the tective gear, medical equipment, COVID-19 pandemic. testing supplies, hospital beds Both decisions were passed unanimously and medical personnel. by trustees that participated in the online Meanwhile, Abbott has meeting. Trustee Bill Lacy was absent from ordered the temporary closure the meeting. of in-person school operations and prohibited non-critical visits Pavilion remake to nursing homes, retirement or long-term care facilities. He also The renovations would cost about $5 has mandated that Texans avoid: million and would create a new home for • Social gatherings of more the district’s Early Childhood Intervention than 10 people; program – known as Project Tyke – as well • Dine-in eating and drinking as meeting and professional development at bars or restaurants; and space for the district. KATY ISD/VLK ARCHITECTS, INC. • Gyms or massage establish- “Though the program has been housed The Katy ISD Board of Trustees has approved renovations for the old L.D. Robinson Pavilion site in downtown Katy and ments. at various locations throughout the years, to postponed the district’s May trustee election to November. On March 28 the Texas De- see the approval of a new home for our families and children will be a great opportunity partment of State Health Services remaining 1,000 square feet would be tools already in place to be successful, ac- to continue providing early intervention reported 25,483 people had been utilized for maintenance, mechanical and cording to the district’s website. Assistance services to our future Katy ISD students,” tested so far for COVID-19 in other general spaces according to drawings is provided for a variety of developmental said ECI Program Diretor Martha Aki. Texas. Of those, 2,552 tests were shown during the district’s meeting. concerns including Austism Spectrum reported as positive and there The program is currently housed in por- No construction company has been Disorders, mobility impairments, speech had been 34 deaths. table buildings just west of the Katy ISD Op- identified for the project, however, the KISD difficulties and other health impairments portunity Awareness Center on the Raines Board of Trustees approved a competitive that could negatively impact a student’s Quarantine orders issued High School campus. Between 300 and 400 sealed bid methodology to allow con- scholastic success. children are served through the Project Tyke Gov. Abbott on March 26 struction vendors to bid on the project. “ECI Project TYKE is one program that program each year for a total of about 15,000 issued an executive order This method allows bids to be submitted serves children from birth to 36 months of children since the program’s initiation more mandating a self-quarantine for in sealed packages then be opened during age with developmental delays. There are than 30 years ago, Katy ISD staff said. individuals traveling to Texas as a public opening on a scheduled date, 46 ECI programs in the state of Texas serving their final destination through an Renovations to the facility have been according to the Texas Comptroller of every square inch to provide services to airport from the New York-New designed by VLK Architects, Inc. which is Public Accounts website. The Comptrollers the smallest of Texans,” said Maria DiPetta, Jersey-Connecticut area or from headquartered in Houston. Changes to the office regulates purchasing in Texas for all KISD spokesperson. the city of New Orleans. 25,000-square-foot facility will include refac- governmental entities. Once opened, bids ing the building and adding four classrooms, and proposals are scored to determine best a meeting space that can provide up to six value and an award is made. Award of the Election postponed See DISASTER, page A3 rooms depending on how it is configured, resulting contract will need to be approved The KISD Board of Trustees also pushed two therapy rooms and office space for staff by the KISD Board of Trustees after staff the May 2 trustee election to Nov. 3 as was that will work in the facility. About 14,000 have evaluated the bids. permitted by an executive order from Texas square feet will be utilized for Project TYKE TheECI program assists children of Governor Greg Abbott that allows local HAVE A NEWS TIP? and about 10,000 square feet for meeting pre-kindergarten age with developmental [email protected] and professional development space. The disabilities to prepare to enter school with See RENOVATION, page A3 SUBSCRIBE TODAY (281) 391-3141

April 2, 2020 12 pages | $1 Abbott: Schools to stay closed until May 4 By PATRICK SVITEK run through the end of the month. The THE TEXAS TRIBUNE order also says Texans “shall … minimize social gatherings and minimize Schools in Texas will remain closed in-person contact with people who are until at least early May as part of an not in the same household.” executive order that Gov. Greg Abbott “In short, what this provides is that announced Tuesday to continue to stem Texans are the spread of the new coronavirus. expected to limit personal interactions A previous executive order from that can lead to the spread of COVID-19 Abbott shuttered schools until mid- while also still having the freedom to night Friday, but his most recent order conduct daily activities such as going to extends the shutdown until May 4. The the grocery stories, so long as you are latest order could also be extended. following the presidential standard of Abbott announced the executive good distance practices,” Abbott said. order at a news conference at the Texas Abbott made clear he did not Capitol, saying it would bring the state consider the executive order a shelter- JORDAN VONDERHAAR/POOL VIA THE TEXAS TRIBUNE in line with federal guidance urging so- in-place or stay-at-home order, taking A previous executive order from Texas Gov. Greg Abbott shuttered schools cial distancing, which President Donald until midnight Friday, but his most recent order extends the shutdown until Trump announced Monday would now See SCHOOLS, page A3 May 4.

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Our providers are available to screen for the coronavirus via video visit. THE KATY TIMES A2 THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2020 ENTERTAINMENT KATYTIMES.COM 10 games to keep you sane while at home By R. HANS MILLER TIMES SENIOR REPORTER

Maybe there’s something serendipitous about the timing of the board and card game golden age that has been occurring for the last few years. As families have been looking for ways to step away from small screens and look each other in the eye, dozens of games have been released each of the last few years to meet the growing demand. Here are ten that are easy to learn and can help pass the time with family and friends – whether you’re social distancing or not. Kingdomino Inspired by the classic Dominoes game and resource-gathering strategy games, this game has players place tiles in a certain order to maximize the resources they have once all of the tiles are used. Simply put – whomever has the most crowns in the land at the end of the day wins. Published by Blue Orange, this game is appropriate for ages 8 and up and accommodates two to four players. Retail cost without expansion is under $20 plus tax. Quiddler This simple word game uses hands of cards that increase in size over eight consecutive rounds. Players take the cards which have calligraphy letters and point MARK PALOMBO values for each letter to form words, similar to scrabble. The first hand starts with three Between social distancing and stay home orders, now is the perfect time to try a new board or card game. cards while the eighth hand has ten cards. Whomever has the highest point total at the while blocking opponent’s placement of killer? Only the players will find out. This end of the game, wins it and can be declared their pieces. Each player’s color must only game is recommended for two to seven play- the biggest word nerd – optional rule, there. Author’s Note: Please be aware touch at the corner of another like color. ers ages ten and older. Games take about Set Game publishes this card game which that some online retailers are The game ends when no more pieces can 45 minutes and the game is published by can support two to ten players and games indicating significant delays for be placed and the player with the fewest Libellud. take about 35 minutes. Cost is $9-$14 plus delivery of some games. However, number of pieces in-hand wins. Blockius is tax depending on the vendor. many game publishers offer direct published by Mattel Games and retails for Adrenaline purchasing and local game shops about $25 plus tax depending on the edition Having a hard time getting the kids Fox in the Forest in the Katy area are also offering purchased. Games often take less than ten away from the video games? Maybe try this This card strategy game has players shipping for their game inventory. minutes. This game is recommended for first-person shooter board games. The same collecting tricks similarly to Bridge or Boston ages seven and up. fun of picking up weapons and equipment and players get points for the number of Bananagrams and blasting opponents, but with friends tricks one, but be careful – if a player gets and family in-person rather than a glowing too many tricks, they may lose points. Cards supports two to five players. Games take Imagine if “Scrabble” were a race and monitor. The game takes about 15 minutes are illustrated and have special effects such about 15 minutes to play. This game retails instead of counting points, players counted to learn and games last about an hour. Ex- as whenever someone loses a trick, they the number of words they could make before for about $16 plus tax. pansions for the game are available and the may be able to play a card that allows them any player ran out of tiles. That’s “Banana- core game costs about $43 plus tax. The core to play first in the next round. This game is Dungeon Mayhem grams. Once a player uses all of their tiles, game, which is published by Czech Games published by Foxtrot Games and Renegade This strategy card game – inspired by the they shout “peel” and all the players draw Edition, supports three to five players ages Game Studios and retails for about $15 plus fifth edition of the “Dungeons and Dragons” new letters. A fun, educational game for one tax. Fox in the forest takes about 30 minutes roleplaying game – lets players take on the to eight players ages seven and older, this 14 and older. to play on average and supports two players. role of a barbarian, wizard, paladin or rogue game is published by Imagination Gaming Dungeon in a free for all mock combat. Players start and takes about 15 to 30 minutes to play, Want to play “Dungeons and Dragons” Exploding Kittens with ten hit points and use cards to attack, depending on group size. The game retails but don’t have the time? This board game This game is very similar to uno with per- defend, cast spells and find treasures such for about $18 plus tax. haps a bit more sense of humor. Players take as healing potions. Published by Wizards of version allows players to go dungeon crawl- turns drawing cards hoping not to draw the the Coast, this game can support two to four Mysterium ing. Players move their character tokens Exploding Kitten card. The cards they draw players and each game lasts about 15 min- This title has two to seven players work- throughout the dungeon to fight monsters allow them to keep the kitten from explod- utes. The game retails for about $15 plus tax. ing together to solve a mystery. Everyone and take their treasure. Once a player ing or transferring the explosion to another wins if the mystery is solved – but everyone collects a certain amount of treasure based player. Parents are warned that there are two Blockus loses if the bad guys get away. One player upon their character’s class – that player versions of this game – one is family-friendly This game features a grid with tiles that tries to lead the others – all psychic inves- wins. This game, published by Wizards of the while the other has some adult humor that players fill with their own brightly-colored tigators – to the culprit. Clues are revieled Coast, a Hasbro company, is appropriate for parents may find inappropriate. This game, pieces. The object is to place as many pieces each night, but will that lead to the murder ages 13 and older and takes 45 minutes to an published by Exploding Kittens, Inc. and of the player’s color on the board as possible weapon and the location and identity of the hour to play.

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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 THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2020 A3 KATYTIMES.COM

including N95 medical masks guilty of those nonviolent crimes ORDER which have been difficult to find will still face justice, will still face from page A1 nationwide. CASE BY CASE time [in jail] if necessary. Second, “As everyone knows, the N95s is that the order is consistent with are the largest items that we can- Around the globe, Johns Hopkins University has tracked the governor’s executive order that ported a total of 680 cases county- 850,583 cases of COVID-19 as of March 31. Of those, 41,654 wide, including those in the city not find or locate. We have found says no violent criminals should be some, but we haven’t been able to patients have died from the disease or associated complications released and that’s the point of this of Houston. Of those, 377 were in and 174,714 have recovered. That leaves 632,215 cases ongoing. the city of Houston while 303 were negotiate with all these vendors [order].” Hidalgo said. because they want their money These case counts do not include cases that did not receive an (See page A5 for more infor- in other parts of the county. About official diagnosis, which is the same for the case counts below. 49% of patients infected were male up front,” said County Purchasing mation regarding the governor’s Agent DeWight Dopslauf. Please note that all local cases are reported to be hospitalized order.) and 51% female with patients over or in self-quarantine per the respective counties’ reports. 60 being the largest age group Dr. Mark Boom, CEO and Hidalgo said she expects the affected. A total of six people had president of Houston Methodist case reviews needed to identify hospital, said the hospitals at the HARRIS COUNTY (NOT INCLUDING WALLER COUNTY those eligible for release may take died countywide, including in the HOUSTON) • 3 total cases city of Houston. Texas Medical Center have been about three or four days. monitoring data related to the • 240 total cases • No deaths “I don’t feel that we can wait “I always want to qualify these • 2 deaths • 3 cases ongoing numbers because we recognize spread of Novel Coronavirus in any longer to outline exactly who the area and they show concern • 61 recovered needs to be out,” Hidalgo said. that whatever number we give you, • 177 cases ongoing CITY OF HOUSTON there are more cases that are out if the community does not take About 4,000 ICU beds are avail- measures to reduce the spread of • 377 total cases able across the region, Turner said. there that we have yet to identify FORT BEND COUNTY • 4 deaths because of the lack of testing,” the illness. Keeping measures in place and “When we look at modeling and • 163 total cases • Unknown recovered adding more orders to mitigate the Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner • 2 deaths • Unknown cases ongoing said. we look at our own internal data – spread is the best way to mitigate which shows significant increases • 9 recovered the spread of the disease, Hidalgo The Greater Houston area has • 152 cases ongoing struggled along with the rest of in the number of patients we’re said. the country in obtaining enough caring for – those models really are Turner said that he had been testing supplies and protective tracking along with the New York told by Dr. Peter Hotez of the Bay- equipment for medical staff, City models,” Boom said. lor College of Medicine that Hotez Hidalgo said. Shipments from the Greater Houston has advan- the number of inmates that might prisoners would allow the county expects the peak of the virus to hit federal government continue to tages that New York City did not, contract COVID-19 – about two to minimize the impact the poor Texas around May 2. However, if come, Hidalgo said. That allows Boom said. The region has insti- dozen already have symptoms – social distancing conditions in social distancing and adherence to the county’s two testing centers to tuted orders to reduce community and would save intensive care unit the jail would have on the general the orders are not consistent by the test 250 people per day. spread earlier in the process, and beds for patients. Keeping inmates population as workers get sick and public, that date could be pushed Houston has been able to open that can have a significant impact in close quarters where it is not inmates unnecessarily take up ICU back as much as another four two testing facilities within the city, on whether the spread of the dis- possible to socially isolate them to beds. weeks, Turner said. Turner said. The centers at Butler ease continues to be manageable, keep them from getting sick also The Harris County Sheriff’s -De “The singular goal is to block and Delmar stadiums have about he said. puts about 3,000 staff that guard, partment’s Pretrial Services group this virus such that it does not the same testing capacity as the feed and treat inmates at higher will screen inmates to verify that overwhelm our health care deliv- county centers and Turner said “Ticking time bomb” risk, and subsequently those em- they are nonviolent, Hidalgo said. ery system,” Turner said. the city has been able to procure Hidalgo said one way the coun- ployee’s families, she added. Those released will have ankle The doctors present at the press additional equipment recently. ty is working to ensure the disease Those with prior violent crime monitors and other monitoring conference supported Hidalgo The Harris County Commis- is managed is by releasing nonvio- convictions, are accused of crimes implemented as needed to ensure and Turner in their decision to sioners court approved expedited lent inmates from the Harris Coun- that involve violence, are accused they keep their court dates and continue with methods to reduce purchasing of medical supplies to ty Jail. The release will allow about of burglary of a homestead or a face justice, she added. the spread of the virus. They also address the COVID-19 pandemic 1,000 of the jail’s inmates – totaling third driving while intoxicated “I want to make a few points expressed appreciation for the during its March 19 meeting. The about 8,000 – from the jail. charge will not be released, Hidal- here, first of which is those being community’s support of medical approval allows a $15 million fund “We know that the Harris go said. released are not being absolved of professionals working to address set aside for land purchases to County Jail is a ticking time bomb. CEO of Harris Health System their alleged nonviolent crimes – the pandemic. be temporarily used to purchase We already have a case in the jail; CEO Dr. Esmaeil Porsa said jails of course everybody has not been “We stand fully behind [Hidalgo medical supplies and authorized we’re likely to see more in the are historically the epicenter of convicted, these are folks who’ve and Turner] in supporting this policy makers within county gov- coming days,” Hidalgo said. health disasters, including the been accused of crimes – but if action of extending the order to the ernment to develop processes for Hidalgo said releasing the AIDS epidemic in the 1970s and found guilty once they face a judge end of the month [of April],” Boom fast payment for medical supplies, inmates from jail would minimize 1980s. Releasing nonviolent … those who have been found said.

Graham said incum- order, leaving the decision up to local strict measure to prevent widespread RENOVATION bents and other candi- SCHOOLS officials. In recent days, they have acted illness in Texas,” the letter said. from page A1 dates should be aware from page A1 to put most of the Texas population There are at least 3,266 coronavirus that, since the Nov. 3 elec- under stay-at-home orders. cases in Texas, including 41 deaths, action date will also include Hours before Abbott’s news confer- cording to the most recent figures from municipalities such issue with that terminology. Instead, a presidential election, ence, the leaders of the Texas Hospital the Texas Department of State Health as school districts and voter turnout will be “this is a standard that’s based upon es- Association and Texas Nurses Associ- Services. The cases are spread across cities to postpone their much higher than May sential services and essential activities,” ation released a letter to the governor 122 of the state’s 254 counties. elections. The order was election dates usually are. Abbott said. saying the “time has come” for a state- There have been 42,992 tests done issued March 18 and al- Board President For over a week, Abbott has resisted wide stay-at-home order. in Texas, according to the latest num- lows small governments Courtney Doyle – who is calls for a statewide shelter-in-place “We urge you to implement this bers. in Texas to postpone currently up for re- elections to the next reg- election – said she felt ularly scheduled election delaying the election to date – Nov. 3. November was the only of California, Louisiana and of funding from the first to issue guidance allowing “I strongly encourage way to be fair to candi- local election officials to DISASTER Washington and the cities of emergency coronavirus bill restaurants to sell bulk retail dates given the social from page A1 Atlanta, Chicago, Detroit and passed by Congress. The products from restaurant take advantage of these distancing requirements waivers and postpone Miami. Texas Department of State supply chain distributors di- set forth by Abbott and A person in quarantine Health Services will distrib- rectly to consumers for home their elections until No- Abbott said the order, President Donald Trump is prohibited from allowing ute $19.5 million to 43 local consumption, provided that vember,” Abbott said in a consistent with the guidance through April 30. The visitors into or out of the des- health departments to aid such foods are in their origi- press release at the time. of Dr. Anthony Fauci and Dr. social distancing require- ignated quarantine location in their COVID-19 response, nal condition, packaging, or “Right now, the state’s ments prevent candidates Deborah Birx of the White focus is responding to — other than a physician or including $1.75 million for presented as received by the from properly campaign- House Coronavirus Task Dallas County, Tarrant Coun- COVID-19 — including healthcare provider — and is restaurant. ing in the district, includ- Force, would be enforced ty and the San Antonio Metro social distancing and prohibited from visiting any ing distributing yard signs by the Texas Department of Health District. Remaining avoiding large gather- public spaces. Agencies to stay on and having conversations Public Safety. Self-quaran- funds will be used by DSHS ings. By delaying this Announcements, with voters. tines will last 14 days or for to support operations in job election, our local elec- Trustees Bill Lacy the duration of a person’s actions areas of the state not covered Texas Attorney General tion officials can assist in and Ashley Vann also presence in Texas, whichever The following are few of by local health departments Ken Paxton on March 25 that effort.” have terms ending in is shorter. many announcements post- and for statewide response issued a letter explaining that The board voted in 2020. With the delayed Abbott said the execu- ed last week by the gover- activities. political subdivisions may favor of the measure election, Lacy’s faceoff tive order does not apply to nor’s office relating to actions • Gov. Abbott and the not restrict state agency per- after discussing the with Greg Schulte at the people traveling in connec- to combat COVID-19: Texas Health and Human sonnel, agents and contrac- details with the district’s polls will be delayed. tion with military service, • Texas received a $16.2 Services Commission on tors from providing govern- attorney, Justin Graham. Doyle is not running for emergency response, health million grant from the U.S. March 25 requested permis- mental services, including Graham explained that reelection and her seat response or critical-infra- Department of Health and sion from the U.S. Depart- travel to and from work. the delay in the election will be filled by either structure functions, as may Human Services’ Adminis- ment of Agriculture to allow Paxton said the author- would extend the current Leah Wilson or Michael be determined by the Texas tration for Community Living Texas Supplemental Nutri- itative document is Gov. office holders’ that are Dillard. Vann is now Division of Emergency Man- to provide meals for older tional Assistance Program Abbott’s Executive Order GA- up for reelection in their running unopposed after agement. adults. The grant was part of recipients to use their bene- 08, which says, “all critical roles for an additional six the withdrawal of R.C. The executive order a $250 million outlay autho- fits at take out and drive-thru infrastructure will remain months. Additionally, the Simmons from the race would remain in force rized by the Families First restaurants throughout the operational, and government candidates and places on in late February. until he modifies, amends, Coronavirus Response Act state. If approved, this action entities and businesses will the ballots are locked in “All this does is put rescinds or supersedes it, signed into law by President would open up another food continue providing essential place through to the Nov. a pause button on the Abbott said. Trump on March 18. source for 3.2 million Texans services.” 3 election. The delay does timeline, there will not be On March 29, Abbott is- • Texas received $36.9 as the effort to combat Local government not open the ballot for any changes to the ballot sued another executive order million from the U.S. Centers COVID-19 continues. regulations must remain additional applicants to or additional candidates that expands the quarantine for Disease Control and • Gov. Abbott on March consistent with the state run for available trustee allowed to enter the elec- mandate to include air trav- Prevention as part of the 24 directed the Texas Depart- constitution and laws, Pax- seats, he added. tion,” Graham said. elers arriving from the states state’s initial allotment ment of State Health Services ton added. KATY TIMES PET OF THE WEEK MEET KIT KAT

Hi, my name is Kit Kat and I’m 1 year old. I make sure to stay beautiful by getting at least 10 hours of beauty sleep every single day! When you are home though, I want to spend time with you. I think that Special Pals rescued me from a kill shelter so that I could go home with you. Kit Kat is available for adoption at Special Pals Shelter located Katy Optiks at 3830 Greenhouse Road, Houston. The shelter is the Katy area’s oldest no kill shelter and is open Weds., Thurs., Sat. and Sun. from 12-4 p.m. and Fri. 12-6 p.m. Enhancing vision with style Sponsored by 701 S. Fry Rd. Ste. 125 Katy, TX 77450 281.492.1209 www.katyoptiks.com THE KATY TIMES A4 THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2020 OPINION KATYTIMES.COM Amid pandemic, cyber scams are a growing threat he dirty rotten crooks. T While the rest TOM of the world is doing its PURCELL best to sacrifice to beat an unseen biological virus, SPECIAL TO THE cyber scammers are trying KATY TIMES to attack us with a variety of digital viruses. Before the start of 2020, I warned about the rapid increase in cyber and cures. Some pretend attacks. The more we live to be from government our lives online, the more agencies offering infor- vulnerable we all are to mation on the number email phishing attacks of people afflicted with (fake emails), ransomware COVID-19 in your city. attacks (when bad guys Others set up fake charita- gain illegal access to our ble organizations. computers and lock up Their goal? To “send our devices until we pay emails with malicious them a fee), scammers attachments or links to who pose as government fraudulent websites to representatives and many trick victims into revealing other schemes. sensitive information or Last July, I warned donating to fraudulent about another worrisome charities or causes,” says cyber threat: attacks on the Cybersecurity and the elderly. People 80 or Infrastructure Security older are especially at risk Agency (CISA), which is and reported a median part of the Department of loss of $2,700 per scam Homeland Security. — and there are many It makes my blood boil regrettable stories about to know that heartless older people who have cybercrooks are adding been taken for their life to the woes many are savings. experiencing. We all need But in the midst of to understand that we our current crisis — as must increase our ability millions are working from to detect and thwart their Governors are in no rush to reopen home — scammers are scams to protect ourselves f you needed anoth- Cuomo, and Washington’s lican governors, such as busier than ever. and our families — in par- er reminder of the Jay Inslee to step into the Charlie Baker in Massachu- First of all, the “virtual ticular, our elderly family profound difference in breach. setts, Mike DeWine in Ohio, private networks” compa- members and neighbors. I JOHN L. messaging between state Some television pundits and Larry Hogan in Mary- nies use for remote work- There are steps we MICEK ers are not set up to han- can take right now to get governors and the Trump have taken to calling Cuo- land, have also stepped up, started. White House, then look SPECIAL mo, whose briefings are according to Stateline.org, a dle the massive number of TO THE people now working from CISA’s “Stop.Think. no further than the online KATY TIMES too Noo Yahwk for words, project of the Pew Center on home. The systems run Connect” program offers news conference that Penn- “America’s Governor.” It’s a the States. so slowly, employees are basic cyber tips that we sylvania Gov. Tom Wolf held tad hyperbolic, but not far “I do think that the avoiding them — opening can begin using today; March 25. from wrong. For his part, governors moved out more up security gaps for the tip sheets on detecting Twenty-four hours after Cuomo has said he’s acting efficiently than the federal threats and protecting our Trump brazenly disre- some places might not be as he always does – just on a government did, particu- scammers to exploit. ready. He also pledged to Second of all, anyone computers, smartphones garded the advice of actual grander stage. larly the president and the consult with experts. with ill intent can become and other devices; and scientists and public health “You want a pat on the administration,” Bob Griffin, But Trump’s serial a scammer now. Even 10 tips for protecting older experts with his announce- back for sending 400 ven- dean of the College of fabrications, soberly fact- years ago, one had to be Americans. ment that he’d like to scrap tilators?” Cuomo recently Emergency Preparedness, highly skilled to run cyber And for helpful videos, social distancing require- checked on the fly by Amer- grumbled about a federal Homeland Security and scams, but today, any fool look to StaySafeOnline. ments and reopen the coun- ica’s new family physician, government shipment to Cybersecurity at the State can purchase and operate org’s YouTube offerings. try by Easter, Wolf went the infectious disease specialist New York, the New York University of New York Al- an off-the-shelf digital It’s regrettable that other way by announcing he Dr. Anthony Fauci, have Times reported. “What am I bany told Stateline. “Partic- scam. those of us who are stay- was putting two more coun- come to pose such a threat going to do with 400 venti- ularly Illinois and New York, Digital Shadows, a ing at home to limit the ties under a stay-at-home to public health that some lators when I need 30,000?” and [California Gov. Gavin] cyber threat intelligence spread of the coronavirus order as infections soared media critics have cau- he said later. “You pick the Newsom did a decent job firm, identified a “for-sale” are at increasing risk as we past 1,000 confirmed cases. tioned networks against 26,000 people who are going in California. Look at what email scam that mimics conduct our daily busi- Nor was Wolf in any airing his remarks in real to die because you only sent you see even from Alabama, an actual Johns Hop- ness on our computers. hurry Wednesday to follow time. 400 ventilators.” Washington – the states kins Center for Systems Let’s make it harder for Trump’s lead. He deferred That danger was rein- With his own plain- have taken the lead.” Science and Engineering those dirty rotten online politely when he asked forced by the death of an spoken style, Cuomo has So if Trump does carry distribution map of the crooks to exploit us. whether he’d defy the White Arizona man after Trump provided vivid illustration through with his ill-consid- coronavirus’s outbreak. Tom Purcell, author of House if it sent Americans wrongly touted the medical of the massive challenges ered decision to reopen the Click the link in the email “Misadventures of a 1970’s back to work, saying he’s form of chloroquine as a that states face in trying nation on Easter, expecting and you will download Childhood,” a humorous always had a “nice working possible treatment for the to contain the pandemic. the resurrection of the malicious software. memoir available at am- relationship” with the feder- virus. The Arizona man That Cuomo is a fellow New country’s economic for- azon.com, is a Pittsburgh The asking price for al government. reportedly took chloroquine Yorker, and viewed as a rival tunes, don’t be surprised to Tribune-Review humor the sophisticated scam? A But Wolf’s intent was phosphate, a chemical for the nation’s attention, see Wolf, Cuomo and other columnist and is nation- lousy 200 bucks. made clear when he said he typically used to clean fish has clearly gotten under governors trying to roll the Fear is the scammer’s ally syndicated exclusively was concentrating on giving tanks. Trump’s skin. rock back into place as they most potent weapon. by Cagle Cartoons Inc. the state the time it needed In the absence of that “We are working very, seek to protect their own Scammers are peddling Send comments to Tom at leadership up top, and the fake coronavirus test kits [email protected]. to contain the pandemic. very hard for the people residents. So, thanks, but no White House’s insistence of New York,” Trump said An award-winning polit- thanks, Mr. President. on subcontracting the after Cuomo’s blunt remarks ical journalist, John L. Micek With cases increasing heavy lifting of fighting the about the ventilators. “We is Editor-in-Chief of The in New York, California, pandemic to the states by are working a lot with him. Pennsylvania Capital-Star Pennsylvania and other refusing to fully invoke the Then I watch him on this in Harrisburg, Pa. Email states, Trump walked back Defense Production Act, it’s show complaining.” him at jmicek@penncapi- Katy Times his stance some later in this been up to governors such It’s not only a Democrat- tal-star.com and follow him week, acknowledging that as Wolf, New York’s Andrew ic phenomenon. Repub- on Twitter @ByJohnLMicek. 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The Katy Times is a member of the Texas Press Association. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: The weekly newspaper is We encourage your Letters published every Thursday. to the Editor submissions, Visit our Web site 24 hours but we reserve the right a day, seven days a week at to edit for content and for www.katytimes.com for more space restrictions. All letters news and information. THE KATY TIMES NEWS THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2020 A5 KATYTIMES.COM Release blocked for inmates who can’t pay bail By JOLIE McCULLOUGH of your position.THE END— Joe Moody (@ and EMMA PLATOFF moodyforelpaso) March 29, 2020 THE TEXAS TRIBUNE According to Abbott’s order, a judge may consider a defendant’s release for health or As the new coronavirus continues to medical reasons, after the district attorney spread in Texas’ two biggest county jails, is notified and there is an opportunity for a Gov. Greg Abbott has made it harder for hearing. thousands of inmates to get out of local The order comes on the heels of a lockups. dispute between state and local leaders In an executive order Sunday, Abbott in Harris County, where advocates and barred inmates accused or previously con- officials are working on several efforts to victed of violent crimes from being released limit the county jail population by releasing from jails without paying bail. Those with the potentially thousands of inmates who have same criminal history or the same charges yet to be convicted of crimes and are being can still walk free if they have access to cash held only because they cannot pay. Health — a distinction that bail reform attorneys officials have warned that even a minor argue makes the order unconstitutional. outbreak in the jail, one of the country’s The sweeping move — which suspends largest, could overwhelm the city’s hospi- a swath of the state law on bail — comes as tals. An outbreak there would also pose a advocates and local governments across risk to the health of the jail’s thousands of the country work to minimize population in staff members. lock-ups, where the risk of the new corona- The county’s chief executive, Judge virus is particularly high given poor sanitary Lina Hidalgo, was reportedly mulling an conditions and close quarters. The virus has executive order for compassionate releases already reached the Harris and Dallas Coun- of medically vulnerable, nonviolent inmates ty jails, as well as Texas prisons and a juve- from the county jail — but shelved her plans nile detention center. Abbott’s order came in anticipation of a showdown with Texas the same day that Harris County announced Attorney General Ken Paxton, according to the first confirmed case in its jail, where the Houston Chronicle. some 30 inmates are showing symptoms Separately, attorneys in a long-running CALEB BRYANT MILLER FOR THE TEXAS TRIBUNE of the virus and as many as 500 others may federal lawsuit over the bail practices in have been exposed. Inmates on a cell block in the Harris Co. jail. Texas’ largest county have asked a federal judge to consider a mass release of thou- Abbott said at a news conference Sunday sands of inmates who are being held in the that “releasing dangerous criminals makes But some jail releases have prompted Legal experts questioned the order’s va- jail only because they cannot pay bonds the state even less safe... and slows our concern. In Harris County, a murder suspect lidity, and it drew immediate rebukes from to get out. Paxton and Abbott on Sunday ability to respond to the disaster caused by was released from jail after he said he was Democrats and bail reform advocates, who asked to intervene in that lawsuit, arguing COVID-19.” The announcement comes as afraid of contracting COVID-19 there. A argued the order discriminates against poor that public safety is at stake and that a judge Harris County officials are working to release judge allowed him to pay just 3.5% of his people. Several Texas counties, including cannot allow a blanket release of hundreds hundreds of inmates because of concerns $60,000 bond up front, according to The Harris and Dallas, have in recent years had or thousands of inmates. about the virus in the county’s jail — ef- Houston Chronicle — a fraction of what is their bail practices deemed unconstitutional “It is not just violent offenders that pose forts that have drawn opposition from state normally required. Normally, a defendant for discriminating against poor defendants. a threat,” an attorney for the state wrote. leaders. can be released from jail after paying the full, “It is a dangerous, unprecedented, Attorneys for the inmates and for county “I’ve heard from law enforcement offi- refundable amount to the courts or paying a chaotic and flagrantly unconstitutional edict officials including the sheriff had reached cials as well as citizens alike who’ve raised fee to a private bail bonds company, usually that if enforced would expose many people an agreement to release inmates accused concerns about releases that have already at 10%. around the state of Texas to a public health of some nonviolent offenses, the Chronicle taken place or anticipated releases that Abbott’s order applies to inmates who catastrophe,” said Alec Karakatsanis, execu- reported. could take place,” Abbott said. “We want to have been accused or convicted of “a crime tive director of the Civil Rights Corp, which A criminal justice reform advocate in reduce and contain COVID-19 in jails and in that involves physical violence or the threat has been at the helm of Harris County’s Harris County said Abbott’s order was prisons for the benefit of both the inmates of physical violence,” which defense attor- federal bail lawsuits. unwelcome and said there was never any and the law enforcement officers of those neys called a vague and subjective standard. El Paso Democrat Joe Moody, a state intention to release inmates who were facilities.” Abbott’s directive also appears to apply to representative and former prosecutor and deemed dangerous to the community. Some individual judges across Texas inmates with any history of violent offenses defense attorney, said “If followed, this order “This is truly a matter of life and death,” were already releasing more inmates on no- — meaning a person arrested on a nonvio- will see jails bursting at the seams [with] mi- said Devin Branch, lead organizer of the cost personal bonds because of COVID-19, lent drug charge last week could be held if nor drug offenders, homeless people whose Texas Organizing Project’s Right2Justice handing a win to bail reform advocates who he had a decades-old conviction of a violent most recent ‘crime’ was something like campaign. “It is bad enough that in normal fight against systems that often rely on cash offense. simple trespass & everyday citizens picked times we punish people for being poor by for release. Release on personal bonds often Though the order bans release of inmates up on the flimsiest of allegations.” forcing them to stay in jail until their trial requires conditions like regular check-ins on no-cost, personal bonds, it does not set When someone files a lawsuit against when they are legally innocent, it’s uncon- and drug testing. In some of the state’s larg- a standard for how high a bail amount must enforcement of this order (which I assume scionable to do it now when it could kill est counties, jail populations have dropped be. Presumably, judges could still release in- will happen fairly soon), please reach out them.” by hundreds in weeks. mates on bonds of $1, defense attorneys said. as I’d like to sign an amicus brief in support Patrick Svitek contributed to this report.

EDC partners with local banks to offer business recovery loans Getting By R. HANS MILLER through Texas Dow Employees Credit Union, TIMES SENIOR REPORTER is providing short-term loans of up to 180 days with a fixed 3.25% annual percentage rate – As Katy area businesses struggle to get by also known as an APR, according to a Katy under orders to close down or limit services, Area EDC press release. The rate will be offered the Katy Area Economic Development through June 30 and is intended to provide gap Council has partnered with local banks to financing for businesses awaiting insurance, offer fixed-rate loans to businesses. Small Business Administration relief or other “The program is based on a national loan funding for long-term recovery. program model developed by the Galveston Other banks are welcome to enroll in the Economic Development Partnership,” Katy program, LaCour said. Area EDC President Lance LaCour said. Those interested in the loan program The program, which is currently offered should contact the lender directly. Started Safely

FBCSO arrests alleged thief, again Call 811 before you dig. By R. HANS MILLER these kinds of crimes in Fort When it comes to digging safely, you make the call. TIMES SENIOR REPORTER Bend County and expect to get When it comes to digging safely, you make the call. away with it,” said Fort Bend Whether you’re working on a large excavation, or simply Nelsin White, 33, who was County Sheriff Troy Nehls. Whether you’re working on a large excavation, or simply arrested by the Fort Bend planting a tree in your yard, natural gas and utility line In a press release, FBCSO planting a tree in your yard, natural gas and utility line County Sheriff’s Office Dec. officials said White was implied safety should always be job one – and that means 17 for stealing a tractor and in the investigation into the Feb. safety should always be job one – and that means has been arrested again after 24 tractor theft which eventu- calling 811 before you dig. Calling 811 helps you know calling 811 before you dig. Calling 811 helps you know FBCSO’s Auto Theft Division NELSIN ally led to his arrest. White is where natural gas, electric, water and other under- found him to be associated WHITE currently in jail in Fort Bend where natural gas, electric, water and other under- with a group responsible for a County with a $100,000 bond ground lines are located. It also helps you avoid causing Feb. 24 tractor theft which led to two other and has been charged with theft. ground lines are located. It also helps you avoid causing people being arrested at a Shell station in FBCSO recommends that farmers and other serious injuries, service interruptions, or possibly costly serious injuries, service interruptions, or possibly costly Rosenberg. area residents with heavy equipment take extra fines for damaged infrastructure. Make the call. It’s “I want to stress that you can’t commit precautions to ensure their machinery is safe. fines for damaged infrastructure. Make the call. It’s easy. It’s FREE. Respect the lines. Dig with care. After easy. It’s FREE. Respect the lines. Dig with care. After all, safety is in your hands, but always on our minds. all, safety is in your hands, but always on our minds. We’re investing in infrastructure, technology Harris County Tax Office grants 3-month We’re investing in infrastructure, technology and services that help keep you safe. extension on property tax payment plans and services that help keep you safe. More information on natural gas By R. HANS MILLER date would be on or before More information on natural gas TIMES SENIOR REPORTER June 30 of this year and then safety is available at: safety is available at: would be ongoing each CenterPointEnergy.com/Safety. The Harris County Tax month after that. CenterPointEnergy.com/Safety. Office released a state- Late fees must be as- ment March 30 saying it is sessed according to state providing a three-month law, the press release indi- extension to all 12-month cated. As a result, the final delinquent property tax payments on the tax bills this payment plans in order to decision impacts will change help ease stress for prop- and property owners should contact the tax office at 713- erty owners during the 274-8000 or via email at tax. COVID-19 pandemic. Voter Registrar Ann Harris [email protected] for final -bal “Due to our area’s ances or other information current health crisis Bennett. This means that Harris regarding this measure. and resulting economic “Unfortunately, state law County property own- uncertainties, property mandates that the appro- owners who are currently ers that are enrolled in a priate late fees must still be on 12-month property tax 12-month installment plan assessed. However, I hope payment plans will not have will not have to make their this extension helps ease to make payments for three March, April or May 2020 property owners’ burdens ©2019 CenterPoint Energy 187119 months,” said Harris County payments, the release said. during this critical time,” ©2019 CenterPoint Energy 187119 Tax Assessor-Collector and The next required payment Bennett said. THE KATY TIMES A6 THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2020 TRIBUTES KATYTIMES.COM

Raymond Ronald Elko was born on March 18, 1942 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to Andrew How to alleviate nurse burnout Albert Elko and Mar- Nursing is a rewarding career, and garet Urda Elko. Ray Don’t make new nurses figure to be in high demand in commitments was the youngest of five the coming decades. It’s tempting to want to get in- boys, John, Bernard, As fulfilling as nursing can be, volved in new projects, especially if Andrew and Paul. Ray nurses routinely confront issues that job dissatisfaction has you looking for graduated in 1960 from other professionals may never en- fulfillment elsewhere. But overextend- Swissvale High School, counter. Nurses are in high-demand, ing yourself even further may only in Swissvale, Pennsyl- but a shortage of openings in nursing add to your existing stress. vania. He served his schools in recent years has led to a country proudly in the widening gap between the demand Practice relaxation exercises U.S. Army. On July for skilled nurses and the supply, 18, 1964, he married RAYMOND RONALD ELKO Engage in slow and meaningful according to the nursing support re- breathing, set aside even a few mo- Gloria Jean Evanchec in 1942-2020 source Nursing.org. As a result, many ments to sit in quiet and take a break, Swissvale, Pennsylvania nurses are taking on more work than and think about how you can ap- and to this union, four children were born, Angela, Renee, they can handle. Couple this with proach the situation in a healthy way Edmund and Nicholas. Ray retired as a slab mill roller the inherently demanding nature instead of giving in to your anxiety. from the US Steel Corporation in 1995. Ray was a loving of nursing, and it’s not surprising husband, father and grandfather who loved children, as that nurses may experience fatigue, Delegate when possible he fondly referred to as “the little people.” mental exhaustion and doubts about The following are some ways nurses can cope with Find out which tasks can be taken Raymond Ronald Elko passed away on Friday, March the value of their work. burnout. off of your to-do list. Is there some- 27, 2020 at home in Katy, Texas where he resided with his Holli Blazey, MSN, ANP-BC, the thing a patient care nursing assistant Son Edmund, at the age of 78 years. Nursing Program Coordinator for are some ways nurses can cope with can do at work? Can you rely on a He was preceded in death by his wife, Gloria Jean Elko Employee Wellness at the Cleveland burnout: friend or family member to help out on June 21, 2010. Clinic, says burnout is “a big problem at home? Lighten your load to give He is survived by his children, Angela Marks, Renee nationally for all kinds of caregivers, Identify your stressors yourself time to recuperate. Delfrate, Edmund Elko and Nicholas Elko; and his eight whether you work in an ICU or an Write down the things that are grandchildren, Jason Paola, Corrina Marks, Alexander ambulatory setting.” stressing you out. Pinpointing cir- Join a support network Elko, Demetrius Elko, Maximus Elko, Nicholas Elko, Eliza- Long hours, rotating shifts and cumstances that are causing you to Many employers offer employee beth Elko, and Katherine Elko. the stress of caring for ill patients feel overwhelmed is the first step in assistance programs, such as access to Private services will be held. Interment will be with are other factors that can contrib- addressing them. Try tracking respon- a professional therapist. Connecting his beloved wife, Gloria in the National Cemetery of the ute to nurse burnout. Many times, sibilities for a few days and write down with other colleagues also can be a Alleghenies in Bridgeville, Pennsylvania. nurses muddle through and do not feelings after each activity. Then try to great way to build up your support To express condolences, please visit www.SchmidtFu- even realize burnout is occurring. identify which are the biggest sources network. neralHome.net. However, if anxiety, exhaustion or of your stress. Communicate your find- These tips can help nurses find the Schmidt Funeral Home is at 1344 W. Grand Parkway the desire to skip work is cropping up ings with a supervisor or colleague who relief they need when burnout starts South in Katy, Texas, 77494. They can be reached at (281) more frequently, nurses should not may offer advice or work with you to to set in. More resources can be found 391-2424. hesitate to take action. The following confront your stress in a positive way. at www.nursing.org.

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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 License # 9157 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) PASTOR: MIKE MCGOWN 281-395-0544 • NATHAN BUEGE, PASTOR 281-391-6770 REDEEMER COMMUNITY CHURCH EDDIE L. STALLWORTH-CHERRY, JR., PASTOR P.O. Box 758 281-931-1833 24201 CINCO RANCH BLVD. • 281-371-21-56 METHODIST NORTHWEST BELIEVERS CHURCH Katy, Texas 77492 Fax: 281-391-1845 www.landscapebycountrycare.com • [email protected] MITCH MAHER, PASTOR FIRST UNITED METHODIST - KATY 5423 E FIFITH STREET • 281-829-8985 LARRY CONNER, PASTOR RIVER BEND BAPTIST CHURCH 5601 FIFTH STREET • 281-391-2121 Irrigation, Sales & Service 26700 FM 1093. • 281-346-2279 DR. RICHARD L. WHITE, SENIOR PASTOR POWERHOUSE CHRISTIAN CENTER P.O. Box 758 • Katy, TX 77492 Katy Hardware WWW.RIVERBENDC.ORG GRACE FELLOWSHIP 1818 KATYLAND ROAD • 281-391-0095 UNITED METHODIST CHURCH G. F. WATKINS, PASTOR Hardware Store Kay & Mickey Powers, Owners JOHN C. CROWE, PASTOR 281-391-1833 Your Hometown SECOND BAPTIST CHURCH, 2655 S. MASON ROAD CREEKSIDE COMMUNITY CHURCH Fax: 281-391-1845 559 Pin Oak Rd. (NEXT TO GREAT S.W. EQUESTRIAN CENTER) MEETING @ WOODCREEK J.H.S • 713-705-4878 Katy, TX 77494 West Campus 19449 KATY FREEWAY • 713-465-3408 281-646-1903 • JIM LEGGETT, PASTOR RESURRECTION CITY CHURCH OF Albert W. Thompson HOLY COVENANT UNITED Owner 281-391-3437 • Fax 281-391-6922 DR. ED YOUNG, PASTOR KATY 23855 CINCO RANCH BLVD. METHODIST www.katyhardware.com TRI-COUNTY BAPTIST DR. BLANCHARD D. LAYTON, SR., SENIOR PASTOR www.landscapebycountrycare.com • cSUountITEryc 240are@ KAconsTYoli, TXdat e7749d.net4 5715 PEEK ROAD • 281-371-3900 22111 MORTON ROAD (AT MASON) • 281-579-1200 MINISTER CRISELDA VALVERDE, TEL. 281.579.7400 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. 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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 FORMER CINCO RANCH STANDOUT THOMAS GRANTED OPPORTUNITY FOR APPROPRIATE THE KATY TIMES END TO COLLEGE CAREER, SEE PAGE B4 SPORTS THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2020 B1 KATYTIMES.COM Coaches, athletes get creative with workouts By DENNIS SILVA II media, using everything from free weights to ice coolers for TIMES SPORTS EDITOR exercise—while also following structured workouts orga- nized by their high school coach. Katy ISD coaches got busy on March 23 creating remote “I don’t know if we’ll be able to keep them in shape,” Katy workouts for their student-athletes following a seven-day football coach Gary Joseph said. “I think it’s more about the period, which seemed considerably longer, where they had knowledge of them getting out and doing something, under- no contact with their kids. standing they have to take care of their Just last week, the UIL permitted bodies. They can’t go for months without coaches of in-season sports a maximum TAYLOR COACH RIVAS doing anything and expect to come back of eight hours of instruction per week DEALS WITH INJURIES, and be the same person they were when working with their athletes remotely. HIATUS IN 1ST SEASON they left.” Out-of-season coaches are allowed a At Katy, Joseph said each head coach maximum of five hours per week. WITH MUSTANGS, see page B2 in each sport designs and coordinates Workouts vary in how they are created workouts for their athletes. Coaches have and executed per program for each benefited from ideas put out by the Texas school. But the foundation of establish- High School Coaches Association, but ing those plans goes above and beyond the norm. most have also sought input and suggestions from their peers “Our situation requires you to think outside the box and via social media. get a little creative,” said Paetow High strength and condi- “It has been great to see the willingness to share ideas and tioning coach Matthew Beeler. “In the end, I don’t want to workouts,” Beeler said. “It has shown that there are a lot of overthink things. The biggest thing is making sure the stu- great coaches out there that are in this business to improve dent-athletes are staying active, practicing social distance, athletes, even if they are not their own.” and being safe, injury-free .” For his football kids, Joseph said, there is a strength coach Because of precautions taken for the novel coronavirus, that coordinates weight workouts, the head track coach helps or COVID-19, the UIL has suspended athletics since March coordinate the running aspect of exercises, and the Tigers 16. The earliest games may resume, for now, is May 4. also have a coach that works with flexibility and stretching. COURTESY Until then, athletes have been working out on their Brothers Aaron and Zach Session, offensive linemen at Morton Ranch High, lift own—many proudly broadcasting their efforts on social See WORKOUTS, page B6 weights together at their home.

Katy Times has a new feature called Senior Stars, where we highlight senior student-athletes and feature them during these uncertain times for their respective high school careers. Because of precautions for novel coronavirus, or COVID-19, the UIL has suspended athletic competition since March 16, with games not resuming until May 4 at the earliest. We want to give voices to senior student-athletes and recognize them and share their stories. For more information, email sports editor Dennis Silva II at [email protected] or message on Twitter @densilva2. SENIOR STARS Katy’s Blakeman all about Tigers, softball By DENNIS SILVA II letic career like Katy head coach Kalum lady that thrives against them. At 5-foot- TIMES SPORTS EDITOR Haack. 3, Blakeman said she’s always had to It’s why the possibility of the UIL work harder than others to compete Sydney Blakeman found her way canceling the rest of its spring sports and keep up. Her drive and work ethic through the game of softball. season, due to precautions for novel is considerable. “I was good at it, and it gave me a coronavirus, or COVID-19, is unimag- “Since I was nine years old, I played confidence I never had,” the Katy senior inable. softball 10 out of 12 months, most every said. “Heartbreaking,” Blakeman said. weekend,” Blakeman said. “I never had Blakeman has produced an im- “I’ve been a part of some tough losses time for much else.” pressive career with the Tigers, one on the field. Games I’ll never forget … Blakeman talked some more with that has paved the opportunity to play but nothing in my softball career has The Katy Times about softball and life. at the next level with the University of been more heartbreaking than this. This Texas-San Antonio. will take a long time to get over.” How early of an age did you She was a valuable contributor to Still, Blakeman is optimistic. The Q: start playing softball? What was Katy’s Class 6A state championship UIL has stated that, though the earliest it that made you fall in love with the team last season, doing whatever it took games may resume is May 4, it intends sport? to get on base. Blakeman led the team to resume competitive seasons that My first time playing softball was in hit-by-pitches and was also a team have yet to be completed. That would A: eight years old, with KGSA (Katy leader in stolen bases, earning a .400 include softball. Blakeman has worked Girls Softball Association). I fell in love on-base percentage. through a lot of hitting drills in the fam- with it immediately. I played for the COURTESY Softball has been the biggest part of ily’s garage to help pass the time by. Stars, and my first teammate and friend Sydney Blakeman has enjoyed a decorated high school career at Katy, Blakeman’s life, and playing for Katy The hiatus caused by the UIL’s sus- was actually Kat Ibarra, who is a senior with a state championship in 2019, and is set to continue her softball has been “an honor,” she said. No other pension of athletics since March 16 has career at the next level with the University of Texas-San Antonio. coach has had the impact on her ath- been just another obstacle for a young See BLAKEMAN, page B3 Tompkins’ Valasek inspired by Astros, Biggio By DENNIS SILVA II versatile outfielder and infielder for the “raid my pantry and watch TV.” TIMES SPORTS EDITOR Falcons. He has made an impact ever “These times are crazy,” Valasek said. since he stepped onto the field as a “This virus was completely unexpected, Tompkins senior Weston Valasek varsity player as a sophomore. and there is still more information com- started going to Houston Astros games “My proudest moment playing for ing out about its effects. I’m just trying as a young child. It’s why he started (Tompkins) Coach (Kyle) Humphreys my best not to go into public and risk playing baseball as a four-year-old. was in my sophomore year, playing putting my parents and others in dan- Valasek sat excitedly in Minute Maid Seven Lakes,” Valasek said. “It was the ger. I have to admit, I’ve also spent time Park, his eyes glued to legendary sec- bottom of the fifth (inning) and we were thinking about how our first district ond baseman Craig Biggio. tied 0-0 when I hit the game-winning game against Cinco Ranch would have “I grew up watching him and noticed two-run home run. gone—a highly competitive, tough- how hard he played and how much “The feeling when I saw the ball go fought victory for Tompkins, of course.” love and respect he had for the game,” over the fence, and hearing my team- Though baseball dominates his time, Valasek recalled. mates and the crowd’s reaction, was a Valasek enjoys playing frisbee with his Valasek had found his role model. sensation I will never forget.” dog, ping-pong and off-roading in his He patterned his game after Biggio. He With the UIL suspending athletics Jeep. If he’s not watching reruns of “The patterned his mannerisms after him. because of precautions for the novel Office,” he’s listening to the Zac Brown He was even in Cooperstown the week coronavirus, or COVID-19, Valasek is Band. of Biggio’s induction ceremony into the hoping those sensations come again Valasek recently talked more with Hall of Fame in late July of 2015. sooner rather than never. The Katy Times about baseball and life. Valasek apparently learned well, Games are expected to resume May What is the fondest memory COURTESY because he’s turned into a pretty solid 4, at the earliest. Valasek has used the Q: you have of playing? Tompkins senior Weston Valasek is a versatile outfielder and ballplayer himself. hiatus to work out at his house, hang infielder for the Falcons. He has made an impact ever since he The 6-foot-1, 185-pounder is a out with his family and girlfriend and See VALASEK, page B3 stepped onto the field as a varsity player as a sophomore.

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Any given want to compete,” Rivas pretty badly in district play into his first season at night, you can go out there said. “They were hungry during their high school the helm of the Mustangs and get demoralized. to fight and try to compete years,” Rivas said. “To see when play was abruptly “The boys have for that fourth seed into them come out fighting suspended, first by Katy ISD responded well and truly the playoffs. Some of these every game with no fear is and then by the UIL, due believe in themselves this seniors have wanted this something I can always be to precautions for novel year. When you have a since their freshman year. proud about. They know coronavirus, or COVID-19. group of guys that truly care “It’s a heartbreaker, for that nothing is given, and Taylor was 10-6-3 at the for one another and believe sure, but we all understand they have to go out there time and competing for a in themselves, anything is that safety comes first. We and earn it. They have playoff spot in the intensely possible.” need to make sure that the matured immensely this competitive District 19-6A, But when the community and country are y e a r.” with a 4-5-1 district record suspensions hit, Rivas safe and playing conditions Rivas has as well. with two games left despite admitted it was a blow to allow for us to continue. “I learned that I walked five starters missing games his team’s momentum. Per All we can do is hope and into something special because of injuries. the UIL, the earliest games pray and let God handle the here at Taylor,” Rivas said. “We started off the year may resume is May 4. The r e s t .” “It’s not about me, and it great,” Rivas said. “We built last game Taylor played was Rivas has his dream job. will never be about me. a lot of confidence and we March 6. He is grateful to be back in It’s about the group and recognized that we had the Rivas was permitted Katy ISD, where he learned the boys. As long as we ability to compete this year. to resume coaching his to speak English and earned keep that mentality and his education. He attended fire and desire, we will be Morton Ranch High School a competitive group. I am and played soccer for coach looking forward to being Fredy Sanguinetti, now the here for years to come.” boys soccer coach at Cinco For now, Rivas and his Ranch. Rivas was a member boys are taking this hiatus of the Mavericks’ 2007 state of uncertainty day by day. qualifying team. “Unfortunately, there’s Rivas was a student not much they can do under teacher at Harlandale High the current situations,” he in San Antonio and then said. “However, one thing taught for five years at we’ve worked on this year Cypress Lakes, where he is discipline. I trust in them also coached as an assistant and believe in them. I for Franklin Cartagena’s know they will find a way to EXP THE WORLD boys soccer program. practice alone and get their When he got to Taylor touches in. They will run with BVSCU in your pocket. for his first head coaching and workout on their own. gig, Rivas inherited a group If not, hopefully we will BECOME A MEMBER FOR JUST $5 of kids eager to work. have time to get it back.” “They make every day Rivas has used this MOBILE BANKING an incredible learning abundance of free time DEPOSIT ACCOUNTS experience,” he said. and social distancing to His style of play changes go back and watch a lot LOAN SERVICES based on the opponent, of game tape from this but, generally, Rivas likes season, hoping to learn COURTESY his teams to keep the from mistakes and misreads 25425 Kingsland Blvd. | Katy, Texas 77494 Coach Julio Rivas’ Taylor Mustangs were 10-6-3 and in line for their first playoff 281.391.2149 ball on the ground and on his part. He knows a lot appearance since 2013 before athletics were suspended due to precautions for focus on counters. He has of his players have been 19626 Saums Road |Houston, Texas 77084 novel coronavirus, or COVID-19. 281.398.4813 incorporated a discipline- watching film, something 18222 Kingsland Blvd. | Houston, Texas 77094 oriented coaching style, and he encourages so they learn 281.579.6080 it has paid dividends. more about opponents and “Also, I’ve been watching always be something new In the previous five themselves. games and reading articles to learn.” seasons before Rivas’ “I have also been able about other coaches’ And when it comes time All loans are subject to credit approval. You must be a member or eligible for membership to qualify. philosophies and in-game to step back on the field and Requirements for eligibility can be found on our website at bvscu.org/about-us/membership-eligibility. arrival, the Mustangs had to think about personnel Rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. Messaging and data rates may apply. won more than five games changes for any upcoming tactics. We, as coaches, are complete the season, should Some restrictions may apply on mobile deposit. in a season only once. Now games that may take place students of the game and that time come, Rivas and they are in good shape after this is over,” Rivas said. lifelong learners. There will his Mustangs will be ready. Cajun Catfi sh SAFE, SOUND, AND SECURE Mondays Since 1890 5:00 – 9:00 pm Safety Spanning 130 Years All You Can Eat We have always been safe, sound, and secure, which has helped us perform through the Great Depression, for $10.99 the oil bust, and numerous economic recessions. In 2019, First Financial announced the 33rd consecutive year of increased earnings. Strong Financial Performance, Capital, and Liquidity On March 11, analysts ranked First Financial in the top ten banks with the best relative credit loss history with the highest relative capital levels within their coverage. 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To read a letter from CEO Scott Dueser, and 9027 S.E. I 10 Frontage Rd. • Sealy, Texas 77474 for more information, visit ffin.com/safety. 979-987-6077 MEMBER FDIC THE KATY TIMES THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2020 B3 SPORTS USC commit Campbell enrolls at Katy By DENNIS SILVA II ly, since second grade, and I always liked it. spending his sophomore varsity season at “I’m more patient as a runner, I can set up TIMES SPORTS EDITOR She started me out over here because of the Taylor. As part of a three-man rotation in the my blocks a lot better,” Campbell said. “I’m education.” backfield, Campbell rushed for 676 yards and stronger. I’m smarter. I pick and choose my Junior running back Brandon Campbell Campbell said he has yet to talk with Katy five touchdowns for the Mustangs to go with spots better.” enrolled at Katy High on March 26 with the coach Gary Joseph but is excited about the 198 receiving yards and two touchdowns. Campbell grew up in Katy, attending intent of joining the Tigers’ football program prospect of being a Tiger. Campbell has 40 offers to play college Schmalz Elementary, McRoberts Elementary once school is per- “I just want to contribute,” he said. “I football and chose the Trojans over Penn and Cardiff Junior High before starting his mitted to resume. just want to help build myself mentally and State in a Twitter announcement late last high school career at Mayde Creek and his The UIL has physically, and build my character so I’ll Saturday night. varsity football career at Taylor. He recently suspended athletics be ready for college and the next level by “They didn’t take a running back in 2020, returned to Katy because his mother, Angela since March 16 due January.” and they told me the spring when I come Green, moved back within the district. to precautions for Campbell said he will graduate in in, I’ll be competing with one guy for the Katy High graduated its top running back the novel coronavi- December to get a head start on his college starting spot,” said Campbell, who plans to from last season in Ron Hoff, who rushed for rus, or COVID-19. career by enrolling early. He verbally com- study criminal justice or sports marketing. 1,473 yards and 16 touchdowns, but returns For the same reason, mitted to play at USC on March 28. “California is a big media town, but I’m going two backs with veteran experience in Sher- Katy ISD has post- The 5-foot-10, 190-pound Campbell, from one big city to another big city so it’s not man Smith and Jalen Davis, both of whom poned the opening BRANDON a four-star recruit, played at Pearland really going to be a hard adjustment for me. will be seniors next season. Smith, a two-year of its schools until CAMPBELL High last season, where he racked up 879 It’ll be pretty smooth.” varsity letterman, rushed for 409 yards and April 13, at the ear- rushing yards and 18 touchdowns with According to 247sports, Campbell runs five touchdowns last year, while Davis totaled liest. 280 receiving yards and three touchdowns. the 40-yard dash in 4.58 seconds and has 946 yards and 12 touchdowns in his first year “My mom wanted to get back to Katy,” Campbell averaged 7.6 yards per carry. He a 36.4-inch vertical jump. On the field, of varsity play. Campbell said. “After I graduate, she wanted left Pearland after last semester, enrolled at Campbell is highly regarded as an athletic “I just want to step in and compete and to be back in a town she was comfortable Lamar Consolidated High in Rosenberg, un- playmaker who can be a three-down back give it all I’ve got,” Campbell said. “It’s cool with, so it wasn’t really anything I could enrolled from there before spring break, and because of his pass-catching ability. to come back where everything started. I’m control. I couldn’t really turn down the officially enrolled at Katy last Thursday. He said he is a more mature player than excited to get ready and prepare myself for opportunity. I’ve been in Katy ISD previous- Campbell transferred to Pearland after two years ago when he last played in Katy. college.”

“I just feel like this is God reminding us of His Jim Baker’s Unified power. We live in a world with so much hate Theory Of Everything and divide, and I feel like this is God telling us --- With God’s Help (JBUTOE-WGH) A new book about Science we need to be better people to our families and and God. Revised publish date: late 2020 neighbors. The great thing is we are responding! BAKER’S BOOKS, Katy, TX 22237 Katy FRWY (close to Landry’s) I see so many awesome things happening.” (ad revised: 11/22/2019; previous ads are null and void)

— KATY SENIOR SYDNEY BLAKEMAN This new book will contain a credible “unified theory of everything” that can explain the very basics of science. Albert Einstein predicted that someone “off the street” was going to do this someday. After 53 years (at approx. year 2000), I decided to include God at every step of the process of trying to come up with a scientific “Theory of Everything”. Prior to this, it was about the “only thing” I felt I had not I’m going to break, I just remind myself he’s been successful at inventing or figuring out. --- You see, God had already given me the gift of inventing BLAKEMAN doing it to get the best out of me and prepare at age 9-10, in His response to my Second Major Prayer. --- By the year 2014, God had allowed me to from page B1 me to be successful at UTSA. It’s been trying, assemble sufficient knowledge that I felt 95%, of what I needed to figure out, had been accomplished. but a blessing. One thing I had always wished for, especially as I was approaching the age of 40, is for God to speak to at Tompkins. We will both play together at me. Well, when God did speak to me, I liked my first message from God about as much, I suppose, as UTSA. How are you handling these Abraham liked his message from God, when he was told to sacrifice his son. But God was testing both Q: uncertain times regarding of us! God was also making us stronger. COVID-19? How are you spending your What is the fondest memory that There are still two major topics in life to be addressed, prior to publishing the new book. One is a time? you have of playing? major release of scientific information of the new theory across the U.S.A. The second is starting an Q: The virus has been tough for me. I’m evangelical ministry. A: It will always be winning a state used to working, practice. Coach championship with my teammates and best A: Author of new book is a Chemistry graduate (B.S. 1971/M.S. 1978) of Texas A&M (A&I) in Kingsville, Haack pushing us every day. Life has been TX. He also attended S.A.C. in San Antonio. He has additional hours at SWTSU, Texas Tech U., Boston friends last year. That’s a bond and experi- different. ence that will last a lifetime. College, Westinghouse PWR. He has worked at Texas Uranium Operations as Chief Chemist, at South Texas Nuclear Project as Nuclear Chemist during pre-startup, and retired from City of Houston where In your high school career, what has What are your thoughts in general he was in charge of Technical Services Section of Bureau of Air Quality Control. Owner of BAKER’S been the proudest moment? Q: about coronavirus and these times BOOKS is also the author of God’s Amazing Answer To Prayer, in 2012. Q: of social distancing? How has it affected The same. Nothing compares to the you as a young person? state championship. A: I just feel like this is God reminding us A: of His power. We live in a world with How has playing the sport and so much hate and divide, and I feel like this Q: playing for Katy made you a better is God telling us we need to be better people person? to our families and neighbors. The great Katy Sports Playing for Katy High School is an thing is we are responding! I see so many A: honor! I always dreamed about it as awesome things happening. People helping a kid and now it’s almost gone, and never others. It also brings us closer together as Don’t miss out on updates and forecasts how I expected it. It hurts knowing I may families. My family is super busy. I have never play a game again. Playing for Coach four siblings, the three oldest of us play on Katy area teams! Haack has been tough but rewarding. I’ve sports. We rarely get to be together for long known Coach Haack for over a decade. He periods, so this has been kind of nice. Social was my first hitting coach. He pushes me to distancing stinks, but I get it. I miss my my limits, and when there are days I feel like coaches and teammates. Contact Dennis with any sports events or tips in the Katy area.

There isn’t very much that us student- VALASEK A: athletes can do to affect the decision from page B1 of the UIL on our spring sports, but I’d feel 281-391-3141 very depressed to know that I, and all of my [email protected] My fondest memories of playing were fellow teammates, especially seniors, didn’t A: for Tompkins baseball during the last get to finish our last season the way we games of all of my varsity seasons. Getting wanted to. We want the opportunity to end to be around and witness the emotions our high school careers the right way. There of all the seniors and remembering the was a lot to look forward to this season. It’s relationships I had with them is truly special going to be very difficult for us to cope if to me. Those times remind me of all of the we won’t be able to compete and finish our team dinners, practices, and games that I senior season. We just have to stay strong played with guys who are like brothers to me. and look forward to being able to compete again once this has passed. How has playing the sport and Q: playing for Tompkins made you a What are your thoughts in general better person? Q: about coronavirus and these times Baseball has taught me a lot about of social distancing? How has it affected A: being a good sportsman and leader. you as a young person? It also has taught me how to mentally face I think the coronavirus is really scary, adversity through a sport that has tons of A: because young people could contract failure. My high school program has put the virus and not feel any of the symptoms me on teams with incredible role models, and put our parents and other older family like Harrison Stovern and Logan Tennel, members and friends at risk. I like being who showed me how to be a leader on a around people, and social distancing is team and how to balance baseball with the really an adjustment for me, but I think it is classroom. My coaches have also taught me wise to distance ourselves as a precaution so the importance of confidence when facing we can best manage this crisis. I have never the challenges of the game. thought that I would ever experience a time when stores would be out of toilet paper, What are your thoughts about the hand sanitizer and bottled water. This is Q: UIL possibly canceling the rest of its definitely a time that I will never forget, and spring sports season? hopefully never have to experience again.

“My fondest memories of playing were for Tompkins baseball during the last games of all of my varsity seasons. Getting to be around and witness the emotions of all the seniors and remembering the relationships I had with them is truly special to me. Those times remind me of all Twitter: Instagram: Facebook: of the team dinners, practices, and games that I @katytimessports @densilva2 @katytimes played with guys who are like brothers to me.” @densilva2

— TOMPKINS SENIOR WESTON VALASEK THE KATY TIMES B4 THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2020 SPORTS Katy native Thomas grateful for ruling By DENNIS SILVA II World Series, it canceled spring TIMES SPORTS EDITOR sports, entirely, for the rest of the season. There were frustrating and Thomas coped with the idea torturous days last month that he had put on his UIW No. when Lee Thomas thought his 22 jersey for the college baseball last time. career was over. “For those Almost as quickly days, everything as his senior sea- was really quiet,” son had started, Thomas said. it was done away “Going into your with. senior year, your The Katy native mindset is to go as and University of hard as you can. Incarnate Word LEE Empty the tank. senior infielder THOMAS At least I’d do it remembers the my way. I’d have Cardinals’ home series against Senior Day. I could celebrate New Mexico being abruptly the moment with my family. I canceled on March 12. The could enjoy and have my last next thing he knew, he was on AB (at-bat). It was upsetting. his way home after the univer- You have somebody who sity requested all students to be makes baseball their life for out of their dorms by March 30. so long … everybody has their “Everything started getting way they want to walk out, you canceled,” said Thomas, who know? If they’re going to leave starred at Cinco Ranch High. their cleats on the field, they “The College World Series want to leave them their way. wasn’t going to happen, and “My freshman year of high that’s when it really hit. I was school, people tell you that in denial. I had gone 0-for-5 in you have eight years. How do my last game, and I thought, you want to be remembered? ‘No way in my final college Everyone has that thought baseball game did I go 0-for-5.’ process, and when it goes a And then I got serious about different way, it’s not ideal.” it. Wow. That was my last time. Fortunately, those un- That was the last time I’d lace settling thoughts didn’t last up being a player for Incarnate long. On March 30, the NCAA Word. Then I got upset.” announced it was permitting Precautions for the novel spring sport athletes who had coronavirus, or COVID-19, their seasons shortened by turned the sports world COVID-19 to have an addition- upside down last month, and al year of eligibility. The NCAA it remains that way with no Division I Council voted to give apparent return to normalcy baseball, softball and lacrosse ZACK CARLTON/UIW ATHLETICS on the horizon. Not long after athletes back their lost seasons Former Cinco Ranch standout and Incarnate Word senior infielder Lee Thomas will be granted an appropriate complete senior season after the NCAA announced the NCAA canceled March on March 30 it was permitting spring sport athletes who had their seasons shortened by COVID-19 to have an additional year of eligibility. Madness and the College See THOMAS, page B6

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COMPETITIVE BIDDING OIL, GAS, & NOTICE INVITATION TO BID WE BUY MINERAL RIGHTS The County of Waller proposes to purchase the following TexSCAN Week of REAL ESTATE Both non-producing and producing items on competitive bid: including Non-Participating Royalty Interest (NPRI) March 29, 2020 Bankruptcy Sale – Premium Turnkey Guest Ranch on Provide us your desired price for an offer evaluation. TRAFFIC AND GUARDRAIL IMPROVEMENTS AT 72± Beautiful Acres. 4168 County Rd. 444, Waelder, TX VARIOUS LOCATIONS IN WALLER COUNTY ACREAGE – Austin Area. Potential Uses Include: Rehab Retreat, CALL TODAY: 806.620.1422 Hunting/investment/recreational property. We Bed & Breakfast, Wedding/Event Venue, Private Bids will be received by the Waller County Auditor, Alan Resort. Bid Deadline: May 6. Recently Appraised: have some of the best in Texas! From the Hill Country Younts, until 2:00 p.m., April 20, 2020 in the office of $4,400,000. 855-755-2300 HilcoRealEstate.com. 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Select Interest (NPRI). Provide us your desired price for an Method of payment will be by check upon completion and All-Included Package. 155 Channels. 1000s of Shows/ acceptance of the work or the fulfillment of the purchase offer evaluation. 806-620-1422, LoboMineralsLLC@ Movies On Demand. FREE Genie HD DVR Upgrade. obligation to the County. gmail.com. Lobo Minerals, LLC, PO Box 1800, Premium movie channels, FREE for 3 mos! 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FOR RENT PUBLIC PUBLIC PUBLIC PUBLIC PUBLIC PUBLIC OR LEASE March 19 NOTICES NOTICES NOTICES NOTICES NOTICES NOTICES 2000 SQ FT, 4 bedroom, 3 bath, Puzzle Answers NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING APPLICATION HAS BEEN MADE WITH THE fireplace, kitch- TEXAS ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE COMMISSION en island, granite WALLER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS’ COURT FOR A BEER RETAIL DEALER’S OFF-PREMISE downstairs bar APRIL 8, 2020 9:00 A.M. located in quiet COMMISSIONERS’ COURTROOM, LICENSE, A WINE ONLY PACKAGE STORE neighborhood in WALLER COUNTY COURTHOUSE PERMIT AND A PACKAGE STORE TASTING PERMIT BY QUALITY LICENSING CORP. D/B/A Crystal Beach, The Waller County Commissioners’ Court will conduct a Tx by School. For Public Hearing under the authority of Transportation Code QUALITY LICENSING CORP. (STORE #4111W) more information, Chapter 251, Subchapter E to consider the installation of No LOCATED AT 26824 F.M. 1093, RICHMOND, call 936-488- Thru Truck Signs at the following location: FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS 77406. OFFICERS 1314. OF SAID COMPANY ARE JOHN SCUDDER, ----- Lazy Ridge Road – No Thru Trucks PRESIDENT/CEO; MATTHEW W. ALLEN, VP; PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: Foxwood Drive – No Thru Trucks All real estate advertising in this WAYNE HAMILTON, VP; ANDREA M. LAZENBY, newspaper is subject to the Fair All interested persons are encouraged to attend and Housing Act which makes it illegal ASSISTANT SECRETARY; DANIEL JOHN RICE, to advertise “any preference, lim- participate in the Public Hearing. ASSISTANT SECRETARY. itation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with INVITATION TO BIDDERS parents or legal custodians, preg- nant women and people securing KATY ISD invites Private Non-Profit Sealed Bids will be received by Fort Bend County M.U.D. custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not know- No. 34 on CIVCAST until 2:00 P.M. on April 24, 2020 for ingly accept any advertising for Schools to Public Meeting real estate which is in violation Water Plant and Wastewater Treatment Plant Perimeter of the law. Our readers are hereby Katy ISD will host a public meeting on Monday, April 20th Fence Improvements. informed that all dwellings adver- at 1:00 pm in Room 1200 at the Educational Support tised in this newspaper are avail- All bids will be publicly opened and distributed for able on an equal opportunity basis. Complex located at 6301 S. Stadium Lane Katy, TX 77494. To complain of discrimination call construction of improvements including demolition, HUD toll-free at 1-800-669-9777. fencing and metal gate installation. The toll-free telephone Private non-profit schools serving students who reside number for the hearing in Katy ISD attendance zones are asked to attend. The impaired is 1-800- Bidders shall submit the Bid on exact copies of the Bid 927-9275. purpose of the meeting is to provide an overview of current Form provided on CIVCAST. A Certificate of Interested Federal programs (Title I, Title II, Title III, and Title IV) Parties (HB Form 1295) must be returned with Bid. (Forms and other services. Non-profit schools interested are provided with Spec Book) PUBLIC PUBLIC PUBLIC in participating in programs for the 2020-2021 school year will have the opportunity to receive information about Bid Documents are available through CIVCAST. NOTICES NOTICES NOTICES eligibility. RSVP to Dotty Winski at 281-396-2243. Interested bidders should contact Bryan Malloch at [email protected]. A Cashier’s Check or Bidder’s Bond Payable to Fort Bend NOTICE County M.U.D. No. 34 in the amount of not less than five percent (5%) of the bid submitted, outlined in the Contract NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN ORDINANCE NO. 2946 NOTICE Documents, must accompany the Bid. BEARING THE FOLLOWING CAPTION WAS ADOPTED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF KATY, TEXAS, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN ORDINANCE NO. 2945 Bidders must have at least five years of confirmed experience on comparable size projects of a similar scope in the ON MARCH 23, 2020: BEARING THE FOLLOWING CAPTION WAS ADOPTED Houston Area. BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF KATY, TEXAS, AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF KATY, ON FEBRUARY 24, 2020: The successful bidder receiving contract award must furnish TEXAS DECLARING A PUBLIC HEALTH Performance and Payment Bonds in the amount of one EMERGENCY; PROVIDING FOR A FINE IN AN An Ordinance Amending City Of Katy Zoning hundred percent (100%) each of the total Contract price. AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $2, 000 FOR EACH Ordinance 621, By Granting A Special Use Permit Each such bond shall be executed by a corporate surety OFFENSE. Located At 5364 Franz Road For Wireless duly authorized to do business in the State of Texas. Telecommunication Facilities In A “ R- 1” Single The winning bid is decided not by low price but by this Family District, As Allowed By Section 15. 2- 10 standard: Of The City Of Katy Zoning Ordinance; Providing “The responsible person or persons that, in the Board’s APPLICATION HAS BEEN MADE WITH THE For An Effective Date; Repealing All Ordinances judgment, will be most advantageous to the District and TEXAS ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE COMMISSION And Parts Of Ordinances In Conflict Herewith; FOR A BEER RETAIL DEALER’S OFF-PREMISE result in the best and most economical completion of the Providing For Severability And Providing A District’s proposed improvements.” LICENSE, A WINE ONLY PACKAGE STORE Penalty In An Amount Up To $ 2, 000 For A PERMIT AND A PACKAGE STORE TASTING Violation Of Any Provision Of The Ordinance. The Owner reserves the right to reject any and all bids and PERMIT BY QUALITY LICENSING CORP. D/B/A to waive bidding informalities. QUALITY LICENSING CORP. (STORE #4111B) LOCATED AT 26824 F.M. 1093, RICHMOND, FORT BEND COUNTY, TEXAS 77406. OFFICERS OF SAID COMPANY ARE JOHN SCUDDER, NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING INVITATION TO BIDDERS PRESIDENT/CEO; MATTHEW W. ALLEN, VP; Sealed Bids, in duplicate, addressed to Waller County WAYNE HAMILTON, VP; ANDREA M. LAZENBY, WALLER COUNTY COMMISSIONERS’ COURT Municipal Utility District No. 18, Attention: Doug Bergen, ASSISTANT SECRETARY; DANIEL JOHN RICE, APRIL 8, 2020 9:00 A.M. President, Board of Directors, will be received at the office ASSISTANT SECRETARY. COMMISSIONERS’ COURTROOM, of the Engineer, LJA Engineering, Inc., 1904 West Grand WALLER COUNTY COURTHOUSE Parkway North, Suite 120, Katy, Texas 77449, until 3:30 p.m., Local Time, Wednesday, April 15, 2020, and then The Waller County Commissioners’ Court will conduct a publicly opened and read for “Construction of the Paving Public Hearing under the authority of Chapter 251.152, and Appurtenances to Serve Twinwood Business Park INVITATION TO BIDDERS Transportation Code, to consider the establishment of Phase 3 for Waller County Municipal Utility District No. Sealed Bids, in duplicate, addressed to Waller County speed limits and the installation of speed limit signs on the 18, Waller County, Texas”. Bidders may elect to submit bids electronically via https://bids.lja.com. Municipal Utility District No. 18, Attention: Doug Bergen, following roads: President, Board of Directors, will be received at the office Scope of Work of the Contract includes the following: of the Engineer, LJA Engineering, Inc., 1904 West Grand COUNTRY LANE ESTATES – All roads within subdivision Construction of paving and appurtenances. Parkway North, Suite 120, Katy, Texas 77449, until 3:00 – 30 mph. p.m., Local Time, Tuesday, April 14, 2020, and then Bids received after the closing time will be returned publicly opened and read for “Construction of the Paving All interested persons are encouraged to attend and unopened. A non-mandatory pre-bid conference will be and Appurtenances to Serve Twinwood Business Park participate in the Public Hearing. held on Wednesday, April 8, 2020, at 3:30 p.m. Local Time, Phase 2 for Waller County Municipal Utility District No. at the office of the Engineer, LJA Engineering, Inc., 1904 18, Waller County, Texas”. Bidders may elect to submit bids West Grand Parkway North, Suite 120, Katy, Texas 77449. electronically via https://bids.lja.com. Each Bid must be accompanied by a Bid Bond or a certified Scope of Work of the Contract includes the following: or cashier’s check, acceptable to the Owner, in an amount Construction of paving and appurtenances. COMPETITIVE BIDDING not less than five percent (5%) of the total amount Bid, as Bids received after the closing time will be returned NOTICE INVITATION TO BID a guarantee that the successful bidder will enter into the unopened. A non-mandatory pre-bid conference will be Contract and execute the Bonds on the forms provided, held on Tuesday, April 7, 2020, at 3:00 p.m. Local Time, at The County of Waller proposes to purchase the following and provide the required insurance certificates within seven the office of the Engineer, LJA Engineering, Inc., 1904 West items on competitive bid: (7) days after the date Contract Documents are received by Grand Parkway North, Suite 120, Katy, Texas 77449. the Contractor. CONSTRUCTION OF HEADWALLS ON BULLER Each Bid must be accompanied by a Bid Bond or a certified ROAD AT DRY BRANCH Bidding documents may be examined at LJA Engineering, or cashier’s check, acceptable to the Owner, in an amount Inc., AGC of Texas, Construct Connect, and Amtek or not less than five percent (5%) of the total amount Bid, as Bids will be received by the Waller County Auditor, Alan may be obtained by prospective bidders or suppliers upon a guarantee that the successful bidder will enter into the Younts, until 2:00 p.m., April 20, 2020 in the office of payment of one hundred Dollars ($100.00 non-refundable Contract and execute the Bonds on the forms provided, County Auditor at 836 Austin Street, Suite 221, plus cost of delivery) ($50.00 for electronic copy) for each and provide the required insurance certificates within seven Hempstead, Texas 77445. Bids shall be opened by set of documents at LJA Engineering, Inc., 1904 West (7) days after the date Contract Documents are received by Commissioners’ Court at 9:00 a.m. April 22, 2020, in the Grand Parkway North, Suite 120, Katy, Texas 77449 or at the Contractor. Waller County Courtroom, Hempstead, Texas 77445. The https://bids.lja.com. Bidders must register on this website Court shall award the contract on May 6, 2020, at 9:00 a.m., to download bidding documents. Bidding documents may be examined at LJA Engineering, in the Waller County Courtroom, during open session of Inc., AGC of Texas, Construct Connect, and Amtek or The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all Bids and Commissioners’ Court to the responsible bidder who may be obtained by prospective bidders or suppliers upon to waive all defects and irregularities in bidding or bidding submits the lowest and best bid. payment of one hundred Dollars ($100.00 non-refundable process except time of submitting a Bid. The Successful plus cost of delivery) ($50.00 for electronic copy) for each A contract shall not be awarded to a bidder who is not Bidder, if any, will be the responsible Bidder which in the set of documents at LJA Engineering, Inc., 1904 West the lowest dollar bidder meeting specifications unless, Board’s judgment will be most advantageous to the District Grand Parkway North, Suite 120, Katy, Texas 77449 or at before the award, each lower bidder is given notice of the and result in the best and most economical completion of https://bids.lja.com. Bidders must register on this website proposed award, and is given an opportunity to appear the Project. to download bidding documents. before the Commissioners’ Court and present evidence The requirements of Subchapter J, Chapter 552, Govern- The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all Bids and concerning the lower bidder’s responsibility. ment Code, may apply to this Bid and/or Contract and the to waive all defects and irregularities in bidding or bidding Contractor agrees that the Contract can be terminated if Bid award shall be based on either unit price or lump sum process except time of submitting a Bid. The Successful the Contractor knowingly or intentionally fails to comply Bidder, if any, will be the responsible Bidder which in the as indicated on the BID SHEET. with a requirement of that subchapter. Board’s judgment will be most advantageous to the District Method of payment will be by check upon completion and and result in the best and most economical completion of Waller County Municipal Utility District No. 18 acceptance of the work or the fulfillment of the purchase the Project. obligation to the County. The requirements of Subchapter J, Chapter 552, Government Code, may apply to this Bid and/or Bid Forms may be downloaded from the Waller County Contract and the Contractor agrees that the Contract web site at www.co.waller.tx.us can be terminated if the Contractor knowingly or ALAN YOUNTS intentionally fails to comply with a requirement of that County Auditor subchapter. 836 Austin Street, Suite 221 Waller County Municipal Utility District No. 18 Hempstead, Texas 77445 THE KATY TIMES B6 THURSDAY, APRIL 2, 2020 SPORTS Honors keep coming for Mavs star Cryer By DENNIS SILVA II TIMES SPORTS EDITOR

Last week was another one of accolades and respect for Morton Ranch senior guard L.J. Cryer, as the Baylor signee was named to the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches’ Class 6A all-state team on March 23 and as an honorable mention selection to the MaxPreps 2019-2020 All-American boys basketball team on March 25. Cryer produced one of the best seasons in Texas high school basketball history for the 2019-2020 season, scoring 1,164 points in helping lead the Mavericks to their first regional semifinal appearance. The 6-foot-1, 181-pounder averaged 34.2 points, 5.3 assists, 2.6 rebounds and 2.4 steals per game. Cryer shot 55 percent overall, including 44 percent from 3-point range. He made 145 3-pointers, averaging 4.3 3s made per game. Cryer scored 40 or more points 11 times this season, including a 50-point, 10-assist game in the regular season finale against Mayde Creek. He finished his career as the fifth-best all-time scorer in Texas high school boys basketball history, and No. 1 all-time in the Greater Houston area. “I’ve been a scorer all my life,” Cryer told The Katy Times in an interview in February. “I didn’t know I’d be able to score the way I do now, but I put in the work. I feel it’s expected out of me.” Cryer was one of 20 players named to the TABC all-state team, and just one of six players from the Greater Houston area. The other five players were Klein Forest’s Daylan Hamilton, Fort Bend Travis’ Justin Hill, Summer Creek’s Javon Jackson, and Dickinson’s Tramon Mark and Marcus Williams. On the MaxPreps All-American team, Cryer was one of the top 50 performers in the nation recognized. The selection was based on team and individual success, and local, regional and state honors. Cryer was one of three players from Texas to be named to the team. The others were Vande- grift High’s Greg Brown III, out of Austin, who was named to the second team, and Dickinson High’s Mark, who was an honorable mention pick. Brown, a 6-foot-9 forward who is unsigned, averaged 26.1 points, 13.2 rebounds, 3.5 blocks and 2.1 assists for the Vipers while hitting 86 3-pointers at a 38-percent clip. Mark, a Univer- MARK GOODMAN sity of Houston signee, averaged 29.3 points, Morton Ranch senior guard L.J. Cryer was named to the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches’ Class 6A all-state team on March 23 and as an honorable mention selection to the 6.4 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 2.2 steals for the MaxPreps 2019-2020 All-American boys basketball team on March 25. Gators.

fitness and strength level WORKOUTS over this break,” Beeler said. from page B1 “As hard as it is to let go, you have to trust that your How athletes attack those athletes are handling their workout plans, depending responsibilities and working on what is or isn’t available out on their own.” at use in their homes, differs. The hiatus has an effect “There’s things we can for out-of-season athletes, control and things we too. cannot control,” Joseph said. The offseason is generally “They might have no control a good time for a program’s over not having a weight set, athletes to build trust and so they have to find other bonds through the struggle things to do. People didn’t and grind of workouts. Some always lift weights and were players may even mature still physically strong; they into team leaders. Coaches used to go out and bail hay get to see who rises to the and they got stronger doing challenge when athletes are that. You have to find things pushed to the brink, phys- to do, and a big part of it is ically and mentally, during appreciating the work you the monotony and rigidness put in. They’re going from of offseason work. a three-month offseason of It’s why Joseph’s primary workouts and now all of a message to his coaches, as sudden, they could be doing a campus athletic coordi- nothing. They have to be nator, has been to stay in doing something to stay in touch with the kids, first and s h a p e .” foremost. Seven Lakes’ football “Take care of your kids. workouts last week em- Keep up with your kids. I phasized strength training know a lot of them have dif- with weighted or air squats, ferent problems and things, and it’s about reassurance,” reverse lunging, step-ups, COURTESY pushups, pullups, curls, Joseph said. “The relation- squat jumps and wall sits; Taylor High’s Hunter Flurry, a football player, does a workout in his garage. ship between coaches and core work with side planks, their kids is so important. weighted crunches and be for athletes to train with- touching the ball as much as advice (for student-ath- Create as much normalcy “The other thing I told weighted overhead sit- out equipment, each athlete possible (1,000 juggles and letes) would be to stay and familiarity as they can our coaches the other day is ups; sprint running; and received a practice pro- wall touches). active; sprint, jump, squat, so they feel comfortable.” this is a vital time, because plyometrics with squat and gram specific to hitting or “Also, importantly, we’re do pushups,” Beeler said. As Joseph alluded to, some of these kids that were broad jumps. fielding that allows them to telling them to enjoy a walk “Sometimes the simplest there is only so much that on the bubble may decide Mayde Creek’s workouts use household items,” Voss or bike ride with the family,” things can be the most effec- can be controlled when they don’t want to come this week are based on the said. “These practice plans Shipman said. tive. If they were in-season, coaches can’t physically be back. I think the program is same principles, but also we implement make our Paetow’s workouts are I would tell them to practice around athletes to gauge important enough, not just incorporated a yoga series athletes have higher quality centered around plank- their sport-specific move- evaluation and campus from a football standpoint for mobility. Rams softball discipline, focus and drive to ing, chair dips, short-yard ments and conditioning, resources are unavailable. but from a character stand- coach Jill Voss sends her improve in all areas.” sprints, lateral lunges, form like throwing, running, “During this time, you point and growing up to be a athletes at-home daily Tompkins girls soccer running, pushups, pullups, explosive movements, et hope that you have had man. It’s important that kids practices that emphasize coach Jarrett Shipman has air squats and other forms of cetera. I would tell them to enough buy-in from the are a part of this if they can. hand-eye coordination skills his girls working with body creative exercise, like over- try and develop a routine, to weight room that the ath- Not all will be the stud or a and specific offensive and weight (squat jumps, planks, head squats using a broom the best of their ability, that letes would take ownership star, but every one of them defensive drills. sit-ups, et cetera), running or mop. modeled their sport practice of their development and can learn something and be “As challenging as it can (sprint and tempo runs) and “The biggest piece of plan and workout routine. want to maintain their good people from this.”

lot. I’m going to continue to count “My coach called me, and he “I loved the work with baseball,” future was in question, and I just THOMAS my blessings and play as hard as I goes, ‘Look, if what it is is true Thomas said. “I loved the work thought it was sad.” from page B4 can for as long as I can.” and you get a year back, there’s ethic it built for me. I loved the Thomas is unsure of the next The 6-foot-2, 215-pound no question that we want you.’ process. I’d go out there with my step for being granted a waiver Thomas was enjoying another in 2020-2021, but financial aid is Instantly you start thinking about dad and hit for hours out there at for extra eligibility. But he at least not guaranteed and how much stellar season this year, hitting .328 the what-ifs,” Thomas said. “Reality Cinco. He’d throw me pop flies or knows not all is lost. scholarship money will be granted with 12 RBIs and a home run in is still that you’re sitting at home, throw me scoops. I just grew a love “It’s just work and preparation, will be determined by the athlete’s 16 games. Thomas had a .480 on- not playing, but then you start to for it.” going back to the drawing board school. Roster limits will be ad- base percentage and .466 slugging think. I think he was giving me Before the NCAA made its an- and resetting the clock for February justed to accommodate returning percentage. hope. He told me he wanted me nouncement on Monday, Thomas 14 (opening day next season),” said athletes with incoming recruits. It was right where he picked up back leading the ship. We were up said he had received interest in Thomas, who has a .285 average The vote was a godsend for from his 2019 junior season, when to something. We were having a playing professionally, either in with 94 RBIs and 16 home runs with Thomas, who said he plans to take he hit .280 with 46 RBIs, 12 home great year, and we were looking for independent baseball or the Mex- a .378 on-base percentage in 113 advantage of the ruling and return runs and a .533 slugging percent- another playoff run. Everything ican League. Though his UIW days games for the Cardinals. “Take the to San Antonio for his senior age. just happened so quick.” might have been done, his career long summer, work out, prepare, season. Thomas said he received a Thomas only started playing wasn’t. and make sure I’m the best Lee “I was already grateful, but I’m check-in call from UIW coach Ryan baseball when he was eight years “It wasn’t the fact that I ever Thomas I can be by February 14. more grateful,” Thomas said. “I Shotzberger about a week ago. old. It wasn’t until his junior year thought I was done playing base- Work as hard as I can, trust my had the game taken away from me, That’s when it occurred to him that at Cinco Ranch that he realized it ball,” Thomas said. “I thought I was coaches and coach myself. This uni- unexpectedly, and even though I it was possible his days in the Car- was what he wanted to seriously done playing baseball representing versity gave me an opportunity that knew it was my last season, it was a dinals’ red and black were not over. pursue. UIW. It was the end of an era. My most didn’t. I owe them all I’ve got.”