GOOD
SWINGS

COHEN REGRETS
WORK FOR TRUMP

TURNING
UP HEAT

Power in Bregman’s
batting encouraging.

Attorney details at trial what led him
to turn against his former boss.

Basque-inspired Baso
dishes up drama.

PAGE B1

PAGE A4

PAGE A12

HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM

•

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

•

VOL. 123, NO. 215

•

$4.00

Mayor unveils $6.7B budget plan
Tax hike, garbage fee not on table to close deficits
By Yilun Cheng
STAFF WRIT E R

Amid Houston’s strained financial outlook, Mayor John
Whitmire unveiled a $6.7 billion budget proposal Tuesday,
announcing he does not intend
to raise taxes or significantly
cut city services during the fiscal year starting in July.

The proposed budget, the
first of Whitmire’s tenure, features a 7% increase from last
year’s plan. It includes additional costs from the $1.5 billion
firefighters’ settlement and
likely pay raises for municipal
workers. It does not, however,
account for the approximately
$100 million fiscal impact from
an April court ruling concern-

ing the city’s drainage system.
Whitmire’s administration
previously floated the idea of a
property tax hike and a garbage
fee to close the existing budget
gap of around $160 million and
help fund the firefighters’ deal.
But the mayor said these measures will not be considered in
the upcoming year. Instead, the
city plans to use the remaining

COVID-19 federal funds to
close the deficit, which he said
he inherited from former Mayor Sylvester Turner’s administration.
Earlier this year, the mayor
asked all city departments, except for police and fire, to identify ways to cut their spending
by 5%. The resulting plan
shows $11.7 million in departmental savings, primarily from
eliminating vacant positions,
according to Finance Director

Melissa Dubowski. She and the
mayor said they will continue
to seek cost-saving opportunities in the coming days.
“I wasn’t prepared to raise
taxes or cut services in the
short five months that I’ve been
here if we could possibly do it a
different way,” Whitmire said
during a Tuesday news conference. “I actually said during the
campaign we didn’t know the
true state of the city finances.
Budget continues on A10

State’s ban
on DEI led
to 311 jobs
lost across
UT System

THE REV. WILLIAM ‘BILL’ LAWSON 1928-2024

By Edward McKinley
AUST I N B U RE AU

Staff file photo

The Rev. William Lawson, shown in 2014, started Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church in his living room with just 13 members.

His quiet persistence, wisdom
helped shape Houston’s future
Pastor’s work
for equality
guided city’s
desegregation
F ROM STA FF RE P ORT S

William “Bill” Lawson
arrived in Houston at the
dawn of the civil rights era,
planning to teach at Texas
Southern University and to
raise a family.
By the time he died at 95
Tuesday morning, he was
the Rev. William A. Lawson,
the founding pastor of
Wheeler Avenue Baptist
Church, a strong voice for
equality and a towering

Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

Mayor John Whitmire leads a moment of silence in honor
of Lawson, who died Tuesday in Houston at the age of 95.

figure in Houston’s past and
present.
Lawson played a role in

the city’s desegregation in
the 1960s, and he remained
active for decades as an

advocate for African Americans, for women, for the
poor and for any population
that needed a voice. Along
the way, he became a spiritual leader and guided
Houston’s faith community
to do more for and with the
city.
“Worshipping God is not
complete unless you help
your neighbor,” Lawson
said in 2011. “That theology
drew me long before I knew
of civil rights.’’
Lawson never planned to
be a pastor. He studied
graphic design and art and
once dreamed of becoming a
cartoonist. But the ministry
called to him, and it became
his life story.
Lawson continues on A6

In response to the state’s new
ban on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives at Texas colleges, the University of Texas
System has closed nearly two
dozen academic offices, eliminated 311 jobs and canceled 681 contracts, programs and DEI-related trainings, according to UT
leaders.
The DEI closures will save the
system about $25 million, Chancellor J.B. Milliken told state senators during a hearing Tuesday
in Austin.
Milliken, Chancellor John
Sharp of the Texas A&M University System and a parade of other
higher education leaders from
across the state went before the
Senate Subcommittee on Higher
Education to assure state leaders
that they were doing everything
they could to comply with the
state law, which was enacted last
year.
“Everyone understands that
this is the law, and we are going
to completely comply,” Milliken
said. “The consequences are untenable if we don’t. But that
doesn’t mean we’ve given up on
access or support.”
Under the law, which took effect Jan. 1, public colleges and
universities are barred from running programs on campus to
help particular ethnic or demographic groups of students. Conservative lawmakers promoted
the move as a return to meritocracy, arguing that DEI programs
were motivated by “leftist” politics and discriminated against
straight, white people.
Schools that don’t comply risk
losing tens of millions in state
funds.
The UT system is the state’s
largest group of universities,
running nine campuses and enrolling more than 250,000 students. The Texas A&M System,
which serves about 150,000 stuDEI continues on A9

Texas Children’s Health Plan lays off ‘a few hundred’
By Julian Gill
STA FF WRIT E R

Texas Children’s Health Plan is
laying off “a few hundred” workers after it lost a large portion of
its membership in the Medicaid
unwinding process, health plan
officials say.
More than 2 million Texans

Advice........A14
Business ....B8

Comics ......A14
Directory ....A2

have lost Medicaid coverage over
the last year as pandemic-era coverage expired. As a result, Texas
Children’s Health Plan, one of the
largest Medicaid administrators
in the Houston region, lost about
30% of its membership, dropping
from 630,000 members to
450,000, said health plan president Michael Murphy.

Editorials....A11
Flavor.........A12

Nation.........A4
Obituaries B14

“As we’ve assessed the impact
to our plan, we’ve come to the decision that a reduction in staffing
levels is necessary to assure the
future of the plan,” Murphy said
in an interview Monday with the
Chronicle.
Texas Children’s Health Plan, a
nonprofit,
offers
coverage
through Medicaid and the Chil-

Puzzles ......A13
Sports...........B1

TV ................A13
Weather ....B16

dren’s Health Insurance Program, or CHIP, for low-income
children, pregnant women and
families. Its network includes
4,300 doctors, 6,800 specialists,
and 118 hospitals, according to its
website. The plan covers regular
doctor visits, medications, emergency care and immunizations,
among other services.

TWITTER: @HoustonChron
LINKEDIN: Houston-Chronicle

During the pandemic, Medicaid enrollment swelled after Congress provided funding for states
to keep people covered through
the public health emergency.
Since then, the Texas Health and
Human Services Commission
has redetermined eligibility for
millions
of
Texans
Health plan continues on A8

INSTAGRAM: HoustonChron
FACEBOOK: @HoustonChronicle

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A2 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

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Katy ISD races prompt record turnout
By Claire Goodman
STA FF WRIT E R

Katy ISD board members Rebecca Fox and Dawn Champagne have officially been declared winners in the May 4
board of trustees election,
which garnered the highest
voter turnout in district history.
At Monday’s board of trustees meeting, the board certified
the results of the election, and
Fox and Champagne were
sworn into office.
Fox and Champagne, both incumbents, defeated opponents
Donovan Campell and David
Olson for Positions 6 and 7. Fox
and Champagne have both
served on the Katy ISD school
board since 2021.
The voter turnout was the
highest in district history by
33%, reported Justin Graham,
general counsel for Katy ISD.
More than 16,000 voters cast
votes in the election.
In the weeks leading up to
the election, campaigns became
heated, with Campbell and Ol-

son sending out mailers that accused their opponents of being
extremist liberals. Campbell
and Olson also accepted endorsements from Republican
political action groups, and
Campbell accepted campaign
funds from action groups based
outside Texas.
In response to the mailers,
Fox said school board races
should not center on whether
candidates are Republican or
Democrat, noting that school
boards are supposed to be nonpartisan in Texas.
“I love that I won on my own
merits without tearing down
my opponent,” Champagne
said at Monday’s meeting.
Fox and Champagne were
endorsed by Katy Educational
Excellence Partners, a nonpartisan political action group
formed by Katy community
members specifically for the
2024 election cycle to “elect
school board trustees who are
committed to providing excellent public education for all and
to maintain Katy ISD’s reputation as an excellent leader in

Katy ISD
board
members
Rebecca Fox
and Dawn
Champagne
take the oath
of office on
Monday. The
election saw
the district’s
highest
turnout ever
with 16,000
voters
casting
ballots.

Katy ISD

public education,” according to
the organization’s Facebook
group.
At the meeting, Fox thanked
the Katy community for reelecting her and preventing out-ofstate political groups from influencing the school board.
“This community has voted

for public schools, for our children and families and for our
teachers and staff,” Fox said.
“This result was the outcome of
grassroots efforts to protect our
school district from outside influence.”
Champagne, who has long
maintained that the job of the

Katy ISD school board is to support the district, not issue mandates to it, had a message for
her fellow board members.
“I hope that the rest of the
board realizes the impact of this
and what it means for the
board,” she said. “We are here
to listen to the community.”

How to get storm debris removed in Kingwood
By Octavia Johnson
STA FF WRIT E R

The city of Houston began a
first round of debris collection in
Kingwood on Monday morning,
about a week after storms
caused widespread flooding and
damage in the area.
The city’s Solid Waste Management Department is conducting rounds for collections as
“part of (their) commitment to
the community’s recovery efforts.” Crews have been assessing the damage and planning operations to help those affected by
the aftermath of the severe
weather and flooding.
The city will continue assessing debris removal needs over
the next two weeks.
Kingwood-area residents are
encouraged by the city to report
debris removal needs to the 311
Call Center, visit houstonsolid
waste.org and download the
HTX Collects mobile application.
About 300-400 cubic yards of
residential storm debris had
been identified for the first
round, according to AlertHouston.
Those who have debris scattered on their property should
place them in six categories:

Kirk Sides/Staff photographer

A crew from city of Houston Solid Waste Management removes piles of waste Monday from in front of a house near Hamblen Road
and Northshore Drive in Kingwood following last week’s flooding. The city will continue helping with debris removal for two weeks.

• Normal household trash
• Vegetation debris

• Construction and demolition debris

• Appliances and white goods
• Electronics

• Household
waste

hazardous

Cornyn, other senators ask USPS to pause modernization plan
By Peter Warren
STA F F W RIT E R

More than two dozen U.S. senators are requesting the United
States Postal Service pause the
rollout of the agency’s modernization plan that has led to decreased service performance and
concerns about the future efficiency of the system.
The Delivering for America
plan, a 10-year plan that aims to
modernize the postal system, has
come under heavy scrutiny in recent months due to significant
mail delays across the country,
including earlier this year in the
Houston area.
Senators, including Sen. John
Cornyn, R-Texas, sent a letter last
week to Postmaster General Louis DeJoy and the USPS Board of
Governors saying the plan
should be put on hold until the
Postal Regulatory Commission
can study it in further detail.
“While USPS claims these

changes overall will improve service while reducing costs, there is
evidence to the contrary in locations where USPS has implemented changes so far,” the letter
reads. “USPS must stop implementation, restore service in
those areas where changes were
implemented, and fully understand the nationwide effects of its
plan on service and communities.”
Houston is not the only location that has dealt with significant mail delays in recent
months. Richmond, Va., and Atlanta, Ga., are two other areas
that have seen service performance drop since implementing
parts of the plan.
There is also concern in rural
areas about how the plan centralizes its hubs into a smaller number of major regional processing
centers and what it means for
jobs and service performance in
their communities.
During a site tour last week of

the South Houston Local Processing Center in Missouri City,
John DiPeri, a vice president of
regional processing operations,
said he didn’t know about the letter from the senators. But he did
express his faith in the plan.
“There’s a precise plan that we
believe and we know that if we
execute properly, we will improve the efficiency and the service and will allow for us to have
great service and great efficiency
for years to come,” DiPeri said.
“If we slow down one part of it, it
can slow down the whole progress of the whole network. It’s imperative that we move forward.”
In addition to Cornyn, 25 other
senators signed the letter. It was a
bipartisan effort with Democrats
and Republicans both signing.
Among the signees is Sen.
Gary Peters, the chairman of the
Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. The
committee called a hearing last
month of the Postal Service,

which DeJoy and other postal
leaders attended.
Peters announced Monday
that he had secured a pause on
implementing the plan at the
Iron Mountain Processing and
Distribution Center in Michigan.
DeJoy signed off on the pause
following a May 8 meeting with
Peters.
“I appreciate Postmaster General DeJoy’s efforts to work with
me on this issue,” Peters said in a
statement. “However, I still have
concerns about additional changes, including to local transportation trips, that impact Michiganders. I urge the Postal Service to
pause and reverse local transportation changes in addition to facility changes, until we have
more information about their effects. I will continue to push for a
comprehensive study by the
Postal Regulatory Commission
to ensure any changes implemented do not impact mail delivery.”

The Postal Regulatory Commission released a statement
April 26 announcing it had issued an order to the Postal Service to request an advisory opinion from the commission or explain why it doesn’t need one.
USPS had 20 days from that
announcement to explain why it
didn’t need the advisory opinion.
“As the Commission issues
this show cause order, we don’t
have firm proof of what is causing the recent decline in service
performance,” Postal Regulatory
Commission Chairman Michael
Kubayanda said in the April 26
statement. “I think the American
public, postal stakeholders, and
Congress want to understand the
impact of the Postal Service’s network transformation plans. They
want to know what is happening
to mail service, how to stop this
decline, how to keep it from
spreading, and how to restore
service to targeted levels of performance.”

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A3

HOUSTON CHRONICLE | HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM

Man pleads guilty to officer’s murder
By Nicole Hensley
STA FF WRIT E R

One of the men arrested in the
2021 shooting deaths of a vacationing New Orleans police officer and another man during a
robbery outside a Galleria-area
restaurant has pleaded guilty to
two counts of murder.
Frederick Jackson, 22, was
charged in the deaths of Everett
Briscoe, a 13-year veteran of the
New Orleans Police Department,
and Dyrin Riculfy, Briscoe’s
friend and a livery businessman

Frederick Jackson, right, has
taken a plea deal in the 2021
killing of Everett Briscoe.

with six children. Briscoe and Riculfy had stopped for drinks on
the Grotto Ristorante patio when
Jackson and others tried robbing
them.

The patrons were shot and
killed, prompting a manhunt that
led to Jackson’s arrest.
Another defendant linked to
the killings, Anthony Jenkins, remains jailed.
Jackson accepted the plea
agreement Tuesday ahead of a trial, downgrading two capital murder charges and sentencing him
to 60 years in prison with parole.
A formal sentencing is slated for
Monday so Briscoe’s family from
Louisiana can attend and share
victim impact statements, the
judge said.

Judge Colleen Gaido in the
337th District Court noted that
the more than 900 days Jackson
spent in the Harris County Jail
would go toward credit served.
Members of Jackson’s family
sat in the courtroom gallery as he
pleaded guilty to the charges. If
Jackson makes parole, he would
eligible for parole 30 years from
now.
“This way, he has the potential
to go home and the family can
have closure, as well as the opportunity to avoid a lengthy and painful trial,” said Pat McCann, one of

Jackson’s defense attorneys.
Police were unsure at the time
of Jackson’s arrest which of the
men fired the weapon and which
drove the getaway car. Both men,
who were free on bond at the time
of the killings, claimed to be the
getaway driver during interviews
with police.
Police described Jenkins as a
documented gang member with
the Young Scott Block crew.
District Attorney Kim Ogg said
at the time of their arrest that she
was considering the death penalty in both cases.

Hotel causes second hit to Conroe’s credit
By Catherine Dominguez
STAFF WRIT E R

New reports from global financial experts show the new $133
million Hyatt Regency Hotel and
Convention Center is putting the
Conroe Local Government Corp.
at risk of filing for bankruptcy
and threatening the city’s credit
rating.
The downgrade comes after
S&P Global Ratings lowered the
corporation’s credit rating on its
first-lien and second-lien hotel
revenue bonds to BB- and CCC+
in February. These ratings show
that the corporation depends on
good business, financial and economic conditions to repay the
debt.
The Conroe Local Government
Corp., which the city created specifically to proceed with the hotel
project, will pay those two bonds.
The third lien was not affected
and will be repaid by the Conroe
Industrial Development Corp.
According to a May 1 report,
analysts with S&P Global have
downgraded the credit rating of
the corporation’s first lien two
more notches to a B from a BB-.
Analysts did not lower the
CCC+ on the corporation’s second
lien.

Timeline on defaults

“Our ‘B’ rating on CLGC’s senior debt reflects the project’s
weak debt service coverage and liquidity risk for its upcoming debt
service payment,” the report
states.
The report also states that, under S&P’s downside case, the first
lien would default in 2027, and the
second lien would default in 2025.
“Given that CLGC’s primary
function is to own and operate a
hotel, traditionally a nongovernmental function, we view that
CLGC would be eligible to file
bankruptcy under Chapter 11 under the state law of Texas, absent a
direct court ruling. If court ruling
leads to an opposite conclusion,
we would revise our recovery assessment,” the report states.
The city formed the Local Government Corp., which is made up
of city council members, in June

Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer

New reports from global financial experts show the new $133 million Hyatt Regency Hotel and
Convention Center is putting the Conroe Local Government Corp. at risk of filing for bankruptcy.

2019. A local government corporation receives and spends taxpayer
funds and private donations on
projects that benefit the public.
Local government corporations
are also used to create public-private partnerships.
S&P also stated its expectation
for recovery if the corporation defaults or files bankruptcy is about
45% on the first lien and 0% on the
second lien. The recovery rate is
the percentage of defaulted debt
that can be recovered by a lender.

Hotel debt impact

Analysts with Moody’s Investor’s Service said the city of Conroe’s credit rating is strong at Aa1
Stable. However, the report states
that the city’s “overall credit profile could weaken” due to its exposure to the hotel and supplementing the corporation to meet debt
payments.
In April, the city received an
updated financial report that indicated it will have to cover the
hotel’s debt until 2050, which
puts the city on the hook for
around $1 million in annual payments until then.
Collin Boothe, assistant city ad-

ministrator and director of finance, said in March that it is “unknown” how the corporation will
repay the liens. He said the corporation could sell the hotel, but that
would require legal review.
Despite the downgrade and
bleak forecast, analysts reported
a slight increase in the hotel’s performance since February.
According to the S&P report,
occupancy increased to above
40% and the average daily rate
was stable at over $160 in February and March. Recent occupancy growth was primarily driven
by events and conferences held at
the meeting rooms in the hotel,
which increased its group revenues.
“The hotel had an increase in
banquets, which are typically
considered to be more profitable
given their scale of economies and
premium charge on service,” the
report states. “There were also
some cost savings in information
and technologies, utilities, and
administrative and general expenses. We believe the F&B segment can still be volatile, and operating costs could pick up for the
rest of FY 2024.”

Financial concerns

The hotel has continued to be a
controversial issue for the council, dividing members.
Council Member Harry Hardman said the recent reports confirm the city’s “extremely serious
financial position the Hyatt Hotel
project has put the city of Conroe
in.” He said the corporation’s
credit downgrade could affect the
city.
“Any reduction in Conroe’s
creditworthiness would be disastrous, as it would increase the
cost of issuing bonds and further
challenge our ability to fund future critical Capital Improvement
Projects, which have been ignored by previous councils to facilitate ‘feel good’ projects like the
Hyatt,” Hardman said. “Councilmen Maddux and Yancey can no
longer proclaim ‘fake news’ regarding this issue and need to
take ownership of their decisions.”
Council Member Marsha Porter said previous financial staff’s
predictions of $6.5 million in revenue “are so far off it has become
ludicrous.”
“Todd Yancey and Curt Mad-

dox obviously did not read the
contract or question the financial
implications,” Porter said. “If
they had done their due diligence
they would have voted against the
hotel as Duke Coon and myself
did. I do expect another downgrade by Oct. 1 or sooner.”
Wood said the report findings
are “extremely concerning.” He
said the city should hire more police and fire personnel and focus
on capital improvement projects,
not subsidizing the hotel.
“Citizens were told this hotel
would not cost one cent,” Wood
said. “That is obviously wrong
and one of many reasons why our
former city administrator and
CFO are no longer with the city.”
Wood said he is working to
bring business to the hotel.
“I proactively started a marketing team in 2023 using city staff to
promote this hotel across the
state and nation, combating the
substandard
performance,”
Wood said.
Maddux said fellow council
members have made the issue political, calling it “the worst kind of
hypocrisy.”
He questioned Hardman,
Wood and Porter’s recent actions,
which he said have cost the city
“millions of dollars of payouts
and lost productivity.”
“Their reckless actions have
brought about lawsuits and allegations that will undoubtedly
cost millions more,” Maddux
said.
Maddux said debt is necessary
to grow the city and that the hotel
has made a profit in the last six
months.
“The bottom line is this — yes
the city’s credit rating has gone
down a bit, but Conroe is in no financial danger,” Maddux said.
“Our interest rate has not risen,
we have no trouble paying our
note payments and our infrastructure, facilities and amenities
are on par for a growing vibrant
city. Politics is a nasty business,
and statistics can be used to deceive. I am looking at outcomes
and projections and they are all
positive.”
Yancey did not respond to requests for comment.

Klein ISD trustees target safety after teachers’ arrests
By Elizabeth Sander
STA FF WRIT E R

Trustees in Klein ISD vowed to
reexamine safety and security
practices on their campuses
Monday, in light of a string of recent teacher arrests that brought
statewide attention to the northwest Harris County district.
“The trust has been undermined by ex-employees who have
been accused of committing acts
of egregious moral turpitude,”
according to a resolution the
board unanimously approved at
its regular May board meeting.
“We must redouble our focus on
student safety by evaluating our
current practices with the most
critical eye … to strengthen and
maintain
our
community’s
trust.”
Some trustees addressed the
multiple arrests of former Klein
ISD staff who were charged with
various crimes relating to child
pornography, sexual assault and
trafficking of minors.
“I’m devastated by the heinous
acts inflicted on students by evil
people,” Trustee Chris Todd said.
“Some would have you believe
that their actions were allowed,
or that this was a result of neglect
or poor leadership or simply the
fault of public education in general. None of those are true … We
cannot allow selfish political or
personal ambition to take us off
our mission.”
The most egregious arrest was

that of Kedria Grigsby, Klein Cain
High School’s former cosmetology teacher, who was arrested on
multiple counts of facilitating sex
trafficking of minors, some of
whom were area students who
had been reported as missing.
The trafficking arrest earned
the attention of Gov. Greg Abbott,
who blasted the district in an
April tweet that advocated for
school vouchers. Klein ISD officials did not specify whether the
evaluation of district practices
would be in the form of an official
audit.
While the district removed
Grigsby from the school, some
community members were concerned that the school had been
notified of a police report implicating Grigsby in her son’s alleged sex trafficking activity a
year before charges were filed,
yet she remained in the classroom.
Klein ISD officials have said
that they called the Harris County Sheriff’s Office about the report, and they had told the district that Grigsby was not a suspect in the case. The HCSO, however, said they have no record of
telling Klein ISD that Grigsby
was not a suspect. The discrepancy had not been clarified by either party as of Monday.
Recently, another teacher was
fired from the district after allegations of sexual misconduct and
non-sanctioned
out-of-school
trips surfaced. The former agri-

cultural science teacher at Klein
Forest High School, Isidoro
Guerrero, was put on leave after
confirming the trip, almost five
years after he began teaching in
the district.
Klein ISD officials called the
allegations in late April “deeply
troubling” and urged that they
would ensure “no stone is left unturned” in the investigation.
Klein Forest Principal Lance
Alexander sent a letter telling
staff that the teacher was terminated one day after officials
learned of the trip, on April 24.
Alexander said that all the allegations were reported to the Texas
Education Agency and Child
Protective Services.
Parents have also lodged complaints about overcrowding on
some campuses creating unsafe
conditions that led to fights and
multiple children wandering off
campus.
Superintendent
Jenny
McGown said in an email sent to
parents Thursday that safety improvements are coming.
“I am heartsick, appalled, and
angry with what we’ve endured
recently as a Klein Family — individuals once entrusted as employees in our school district
jeopardized the safety and wellbeing of our students,” she wrote,
adding that the events had “compromised our trust.”
McGown said the district
would be increasing employee
training, improving communica-

tion, enhancing parent workshops and advocating for policy
change.
Workshops will be held virtually and in-person on subjects
such as “digital safety, mental
health, drug and alcohol abuse,
vaping, human trafficking, educational support strategies” to
help parents raise children in the
“challenging” world, McGown
wrote.
She added that Klein ISD Police Chief Marlon Runnels is
working to improve interagency
communication and that the district will advocate for a policy
that “requires school districts to
be informed by any law enforcement agency when any employee
is under investigation, especially
employees working directly with
children,” McGown said.
“We can’t act if we don’t know
that outside law enforcement
agencies are investigating someone,” she continued.
Staff will also be offered additional training during their employment with the district held
by outside subject experts “to
help us better understand and
recognize behaviors that do not
align with what we expect of our
staff.”
Some board members who
spoke about the resolution said
they had students in Klein Cain
High School, and despite the arrest of Grigsby, they still have
trust in the district. One board
member, Rob Ellis, rebuked the

claim that he or other leaders
with students in Klein Cain knew
about the former teacher’s alleged criminal activity.
“The fact that we as parents
would allow something, know
something, allow it to be there,
just does not make any sense,”
Ellis said, adding that McGown
and her team are working to “to
make sure that this never happens again, and certainly one
time is too many.”
Some community members
spoke about the resolution at the
board meeting Monday. One
woman, Nikki Kinchen, said that
the time between the original report to the district and Grigsby’s
arrest “doesn’t pass the smell
test.”
“I don’t feel safe sending my
kids to school, to be honest,” she
said. “It just all goes back to no
transparency, like again, the right
hand doesn’t know what the left
hand is doing half the time.”
Kinchen said she would remove her kids from the district if
they weren’t nearing their senior
year.
Another speaker, Nicole Peters, highlighted the educators
she said were “great” in the district, but clarified that they needed to be protected, too.
“I ask you to be diligent and
continue to make safety a top priority to keep students the focus
and to keep supporting the great
teachers,” Peters said. “This is a
partnership.”

A4 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

HOUSTON CHRONICLE | HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM

NATION & WORLD
AROUND THE NATION
AND WORLD
NEW ORLEANS

Storms cut deadly
path across South
Storms that slammed several
Southern states added to the
region’s recent string of weather-related destruction and
death, including that of a Louisiana woman who was nine
months pregnant.
Kristin Browning, 31, was
killed after Monday night’s
storms knocked a tree into a
home in West Baton Rouge
Parish, officials said. Her unborn child did not survive.
Another death happened
near the Louisiana town of
Henderson after a tornado
appeared to have struck the
area.
In Mississippi, one person
was killed in Wilkinson County
during storms that hit the area
Sunday and Monday, officials
announced Tuesday.
At least 267 tornadoes were
confirmed by the National
Weather Service from April 25
through May 10.
ORLANDO

Eight farmworkers
killed in bus wreck
The Florida Highway Patrol
has arrested the driver of a
pickup truck that crashed into
a farmworker bus, killing eight,
on charges of driving under the
influence-manslaughter.
Troopers say Bryan Maclean
Howard faces eight counts of
DUI-Manslaughter for Tuesday
morning’s crash. Troopers say
Howard was driving the 2001
Ford Ranger that crossed into
the center line, sideswiping the
bus and causing it to veer off
the road at about 6:40 a.m. It
crashed through a fence and
into a tree before overturning.
In addition to the eight
killed, at least 45 were injured.

Cohen offers insider knowledge
in Trump’s N.Y. hush money trial
By Michael R. Sisak,
Eric Tucker, Michelle L.
Price and Colleen Long
ASS OCIATED PR E S S

NEW YORK — It wasn’t until
after a decade in the fold, after his
family pleaded with him, after
the FBI raided his office, apartment and hotel room, Michael
Cohen testified Tuesday, that he
finally decided to turn on Donald
Trump.
That decision led to a 2018
guilty plea to federal charges involving a payment to the porn actor Stormy Daniels to bury her
story of an alleged sexual encounter with Trump and to other, unrelated crimes. And it’s that
insider knowledge of shady deals
that pushed Manhattan prosecutors to make Cohen the star witness in their case against Trump
about that same payment, which
they say was an illegal effort to
influence the 2016 presidential
election. Under questioning this
week, Cohen has described the
nuts-and-bolts of how the
scheme worked.
“To keep the loyalty and to do
the things that he had asked me
to do, I violated my moral compass, and I suffered the penalty,
as has my family,” Cohen said
Tuesday.
There’s been no witness-stand
bombast or fireworks so far from
Cohen, a man who was defined
for years by his braggadocio as
Trump’s problem-zapper. Instead, his testimony about purposefully mislabeled checks,
false receipts and blind loyalty,
however dry it was, placed

Seth Wenig/Associated Press

Michael Cohen, right, leaves
his apartment building
Tuesday in New York, before
returning to the witness stand.

Trump at the center of the
scheme and underscored the
foundational argument of the
case — that it’s not about the
spectacle of what Trump was
paying for, but rather his effort to
illegally cover up those payments.
A shocking moment did come,
but it was courtesy of House
Speaker Mike Johnson, who appeared at the courthouse with
Trump and who used his powerful bully pulpit to turn his political party against the rule of law
by declaring the Manhattan
criminal trial illegitimate. He and
other GOP lawmakers are serving as surrogates while Trump
himself remains barred by a gag
order in the case following an appeals court ruling Tuesday.
“I do have a lot of surrogates,
and they’re speaking very beautifully,” Trump said before court
as the group gathered in the
background. “And they come ...
from all over Washington. And
they’re highly respected, and
they think this is the greatest
scam they’ve ever seen.”

The Republican presidential
nominee has pleaded not guilty
and denies that any of the encounters took place.
Cohen has testified in detail
about how the former president
was linked to all aspects of the
hush money scheme, and prosecutors believe Cohen’s insider
knowledge is critical to their
case. But their reliance on a witness with such a checkered past
— he was disbarred, went to prison and separately pleaded guilty
to lying about a Moscow real estate project on Trump’s behalf —
could backfire, especially as
Trump’s attorneys cross-examine him.
Defense lawyer Todd Blanche
spent no time Tuesday asking
about the allegations at the center of the trial. He instead worked
to portray Cohen as a Trump-obsessed media hound, intimating
that Cohen leaked self-serving
information about himself.
Amid rapid-fire objections
from prosecutors, Blanche
probed Cohen’s hyperfocus on
Trump.
Cohen was asked by Blanche if
he recalled an October 2020 podcast episode in which he said
Trump needs to wear handcuffs
and that “people will not be satisfied until this man is sitting inside a cell.” The line of questioning was designed to persuade jurors that Cohen was driven by
personal animus to hold Trump
accountable.
“I wouldn’t put it past me,” Cohen testified.
Cohen will be the prosecution’s last witness. Trump’s de-

Blinken
affirms U.S.
support for
Ukraine

WASHINGTON, D.C.

DOJ: Boeing violated
prosecution deal
The Justice Department has
determined that Boeing violated a settlement that allowed
the company to avoid criminal
prosecution after two deadly
crashes involving its 737 Max
aircraft. It is now up to the
Justice Department to weigh
whether to file charges against
the aircraft maker.
Glenn Leon, the head of the
fraud section of the Justice
Department’s criminal division
says Boeing failed to make
changes to prevent it from violating federal anti-fraud laws —
a condition of the the 2021 settlement. Prosecutors will tell
the court no later than July 7
how they plan to proceed.
INDIA

Storm topples large
billboard, killing 14
A large billboard that collapsed amid raging thunderstorms in Mumbai killed at
least 14 people and injured 75
others, reports said on Tuesday.
Authorities said 89 people
had been rescued since the
incident occurred late Monday.
The rains and high winds
caused the 100-foot-tall billboard to fall onto a gas station,
flattening parked cars and
crushing them to the ground.
Rescuers continued Tuesday
rummaging through the wreckage to look for bodies.
DENVER

Abortion pills still go
to states with bans
A new survey says medical
providers were prescribing
abortion pills to about 8,000
women a month in states with
abortion bans or bans on telehealth abortions by the end of
2023.
The Denver abortion-rights
group Society for Family Planning issued its #WeCount survey Tuesday showing providers
in states with laws that seek to
protect them from prosecution
by other states were writing
prescriptions that covered
about 1 in 10 abortions nationally. There hasn’t yet been a legal
challenge to the laws in Democratic-controlled states that are
trying to protect health care
providers from the reach of
bans in Republican-controlled
states.
From wire reports

fense will begin after Cohen,
though it’s not clear whether his
attorneys will call any witnesses
or if Trump will testify.
Cohen testified that Trump
was constantly apprised of the
behind-the-scenes efforts to
bury stories feared to be harmful
to the campaign. And after paying out $130,000 to Daniels in order to keep her quiet about an alleged sexual encounter, Trump
promised to reimburse him.
Jurors followed along as Hoffinger walked Cohen through
that reimbursement process. It
was an attempt to show what
prosecutors say was a lengthy
deception to mask the true purpose of the payments.
All told, Cohen was paid
$420,000, with funds drawn
from a Trump personal account.
Prosecutors also spent time
working to blunt the potential
credibility issues, painting Cohen as a longtime Trump loyalist
who committed crimes on behalf
of the former president. On the
witness stand, Cohen described
in detail the April 2018 raid that
marked the beginning of the end
of his time being devoted to
Trump.
“Mr. Cohen, do you have any
regrets about your past work for
Donald Trump?” Hoffinger
asked.
“I do,” Cohen said. “I regret
doing things for him that I
should not have. Lying. Bullying
people to effectuate a goal. I don’t
regret working for the Trump
Organization. As I expressed before, I had some very interesting,
great times.”

By Matthew Lee
AS S O C I ATE D P RE S S

Abdel Kareem Hana/Associated Press

Palestinians on Wednesday will mark the 76th year of their mass expulsion from what is
now Israel. But the calamity unfolding in Gaza threatens an even more painful chapter.

Palestinians remember 76 years of
dispossession as many fear repeat
By Joseph Krauss
AS S OCIATED PR E SS

JERUSALEM — Palestinians today mark the 76th year of
their mass expulsion from
what is now Israel, an event
that is at the core of their national struggle. But in many
ways, that experience pales in
comparison to the calamity
now unfolding in Gaza.
Palestinians refer to it as the
Nakba, Arabic for catastrophe.
Some 700,000 Palestinians — a
majority of the prewar population — fled or were driven from
their homes before and during
the 1948 Arab-Israeli war that
followed Israel’s establishment.
After the war, Israel refused
to allow them to return because
it would have resulted in a Palestinian majority within its
borders. Instead, they became
a seemingly permanent refugee
community that now numbers
some 6 million, with most living in slum-like urban refugee
camps in Lebanon, Syria, Jordan and the Israeli-occupied
West Bank.
In Gaza, the refugees and
their descendants make up
around three-quarters of the
population.
Israel’s rejection of what Palestinians say is their right of return has been a core grievance
in the conflict and was one of
the thorniest issues in peace
talks that last collapsed 15 years
ago. The refugee camps have always been the main bastions of
Palestinian militancy.

Now, many Palestinians fear
a repeat of their painful history
on an even more cataclysmic
scale.
The United Nations says
more than half a million Palestinians have been displaced in
recent days by escalating Israeli military operations in both
southern and northern Gaza.
Aid workers are struggling to
distribute dwindling supplies
to Palestinians facing catastrophic levels of hunger in
makeshift tent camps. All
across Gaza, Palestinians in recent days have been loading up
cars and donkey carts or setting out on foot to already overcrowded tent camps as Israel
expands its offensive. The images from several rounds of
mass evacuations throughout
the seven-month war are strikingly similar to black-andwhite photographs from 1948.
Mustafa al-Gazzar, now 81,
still recalls his family’s monthslong flight from their village in
what is now central Israel to
the southern city of Rafah,
when he was 5. At one point
they were bombed from the air,
at another, they dug holes under a tree to sleep in for
warmth.
Al-Gazzar, now a greatgrandfather, was forced to flee
again over the weekend, this
time to a tent in Muwasi, a barren coastal area where some
450,000 Palestinians live in a
squalid camp. He says the conditions are worse than in 1948,
when the U.N. agency for Pal-

estinian refugees was able to
regularly provide food and other essentials.
“My hope in 1948 was to return, but my hope today is to
survive,” he said.
The war in Gaza, which was
triggered by Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack into Israel, has killed over
35,000 Palestinians, according
to local health officials, making
it by far the deadliest round of
fighting in the history of the
conflict. The initial Hamas attack killed some 1,200 Israelis.
The war has forced some 1.7
million Palestinians — around
three quarters of the territory’s
population — to flee their
homes. That is well over twice
the number that fled before and
during the 1948 war.
Israel has sealed its border.
Egypt has only allowed a small
number of Palestinians to leave
because it fears a mass influx of
Palestinians could generate another long-term refugee crisis.
Even if Palestinians are not
expelled from Gaza en masse,
many fear that they will never
be able to return to their homes
or that the destruction wreaked on the territory will make it
impossible to live there. A recent U.N. estimate said it would
take until 2040 to rebuild destroyed homes.
Meanwhile, Israelis celebrated Independence Day on
Tuesday with barbecues in
parks across the country. The
normally raucous parties were
smaller and quieter this year
because of the war in Gaza.

KYIV, Ukraine — U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken
sought Tuesday to rally the spirits of glum Ukrainians facing a
fierce new Russian offensive, assuring them that they are not
alone and that billions of dollars
in American military aid on its
way to the country would make a
“real difference” on the battlefield.
After a day of meetings with
senior officials, civil society figures and university students
during which he exhorted them
against being discouraged, Blinken took to the stage at a Kyiv bar
to play rhythm guitar with a local
band on Neil Young’s 1989 hit
“Rockin’ in the Free World.”
Earlier on his unannounced
visit to Kyiv, Blinken told Ukrainian leaders that despite a
monthslong delay in U.S. assistance that left them vulnerable to
renewed Russian military strikes
more weaponry is coming and
some has already arrived.
He made the case even as
Ukrainian President Volodymyr
Zelenskyy appealed to him personally for more air defense systems to protect civilians under
intense Russian fire in the northeast.
“We know this is a challenging
time,” Blinken told Zelenskyy after arriving in Kyiv on an overnight train from Poland. But, he
added that American military
aid is “going to make a real difference against the ongoing Russian
aggression on the battlefield.”
The visit comes less than a
month after Congress approved
a long-delayed foreign assistance
package that sets aside $60 billion in aid for Ukraine, much of
which will go toward replenishing badly depleted artillery and
air defense systems.
Russia in recent weeks also
has launched wide attacks on
Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.
The operator of the national
high-voltage electricity grid, Ukrenergo, said late Tuesday that it
was starting “controlled emergency shutdowns” for industries
and households because of “a
significant shortage of electricity
in the system due to Russian
shelling and an increase in consumption due to the cold weather.”

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A5

HOUSTON CHRONICLE | HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM

Hill Country rabies cases continue to climb
By Ricardo Delgado
and Barry L. Harrell
STA FF WRIT E RS

More cases of rabies cases are
popping up in the Texas Hill
Country, and officials are warning residents to be wary when
interacting with wild animals.
Kerr County officials say they
have confirmed the county’s 11th
rabies infection of the year, this
one in a fox found in a residential area of Kerrville. There’s no
indication the animal came in
contact with people or domestic
pets, said Reagan Givens, director of Kerr County Animal Services.
Kerr County had just four
confirmed rabies cases for all of
2023. County officials have said

Jouko van der Kruijssen/Getty Images

The most recent rabies case
was a fox in Kerr County.

they are concerned about the increase they’ve seen in infections
this year.
“The high number of cases
this year just underlines the im-

portance for everyone to make
sure their family pets are vaccinated against this deadly, viral
disease,” Givens said in a social
media post.
Other counties in the region
have also seen an uptick in rabies infections. Comal County
has had six confirmed cases,
Kendall County five and Bexar
and Guadalupe counties four
each, according to data from the
Texas Department of State
Health Services. Travis County,
home to Austin, has had the
most confirmed cases with 12,
according to state data.
Texas as a whole had 123 confirmed rabies infections as of
Monday, according to state data,
but that total didn’t include the
two most recent cases in Kerr

County.
Rabies is a viral disease that
affects mammals. It can be
transferred to humans through
the bite of a rabid animal, entering the nervous system via infected saliva in a wound, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The virus infects the central
nervous system, causing disease
in the brain. It can be fatal if not
treated, according to the CDC.
A state health official last
month said the statewide number of rabies cases doesn’t suggest a major outbreak of the
deadly virus is likely.
“From past experience, we
don’t generally see one statewide trend in rabies,” Douglas
Loveday, a spokesperson for the

Texas Department of State
Health Services, told the Express-News in April. “Different
areas tend to move in different
directions based on local conditions.”
Most of the Hill Country rabies infections this year have involved wild animals, largely
skunks and foxes. One Kerr
County case involved a family’s
dog that bit a jogger. The dog
was euthanized and its remains
weren’t able to be tested, which
under state law is considered a
positive rabies test.
In Kendall County, one incident involved a fox biting a person. The fox tested positive for
rabies and the person who was
bitten was treated for the virus,
officials said.

Disclosure in Porter baby’s death under investigation
By Catherine Dominguez
STA FF WRIT E R

The Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office has contacted an outside agency to investigate the unauthorized release of law enforcement-sensitive information related to the
April death of a 3-month-old baby.
Officials with the district attorney’s office declined to say
which agency is leading the investigation or provide further
details on the case.

Porter resident Melvin Jesus
Aquino-Enriquez, 26, is being
held at the Montgomery County
Jail on a $750,000 bond. He is
charged with assault family violence and injury to a child.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has placed a
hold on Aquino-Enriquez due to
his immigration status.
A statement released by the
district attorney’s office Tuesday
said the case is still under investigation, and the office is reviewing additional charges for Aquino-Enriquez and other individu-

als connected to the baby’s death.
Mike Holley, first assistant
district attorney, said a private
individual released a video May
10 about the baby’s death and the
investigation.
“The video appears to reference and reveal law enforcement-sensitive
information,”
Holley stated.
According to the Montgomery
County Sheriff’s Office, investigators were contacted by the
Texas Department of Family and
Protective Services on April 14
concerning an injured 3-month-

old child who was admitted to
Texas Children’s Hospital in The
Woodlands.
In a May 2 release, officials
with the sheriff’s office said the
department’s special victim’s
unit, in collaboration with Child
Protective Services investigators, were investigating the baby’s injuries.
Court documents show the baby had multiple broken bones,
including both arms and several
ribs. The baby also had internal
bleeding around his brain and
suffered numerous seizures

while under medical care.
The documents also state the
baby’s mother had seen AquinoEnriquez hold the baby tightly
while shaking him and said she
had been concerned since the beginning of April that the baby
may have a broken arm but did
not seek medical attention.
On April 21, investigators
learned the baby had died from
the injuries. An autopsy on the
baby’s injuries is pending.
Sheriff Rand Henderson declined to comment due to the ongoing investigation.

Katy ISD teacher charged with child porn possession
By Octavia Johnson
STAFF WRIT E R

A Houston-area teacher was
arrested Monday and charged
with possession of child pornography after authorities say they
found thousands of images, including some taken of children at
school, beaches and swimming
pools in the Katy area.
Katy Independent School District teacher James Paul Stone, 53,
was charged with nine counts of
possession of child pornography,
resulting from an undercover investigation into the possession or

promotion of child pornography
on the dark web, according to the
Montgomery County Precinct 3
Constable’s Office. The constable’s office initially reported there
were 10 counts.
Stone’s bond was set at
$900,000 and no court dates had
been set as of Tuesday, according
to the Fort Bend District Attorney’s Office. He has been ordered
to have no contact with people
under 18 per court records.
Katy ISD officials said in a
statement that Stone has “not
been on campus since last week
and will not return to the school.”

He had been an educator for more
than 20 years, according to court
records.
Constable Ryan Gable’s Criminal Investigations Division and
the Texas Department of Public
Safety issued a search warrant at
Stone’s home in Katy where allegedly “thousands of images of
child pornography were recovered.”
Stone reportedly told authorities he produced several of the
photos, according to the constable’s office. The court documents
revealed that law enforcement
seized 35 hard drives and more

than 20 SD cards of photos taken
at locations around the Katy area,
including images of young children in pools and at the beach,
and of female students.
He was arrested the same day
as the search warrant and taken
Monday morning to the Fort
Bend County Jail. The investigation was ongoing as of Tuesday.
Media outlets have reported
that Stone is the husband of Melinda Stone, the principal of Taylor High School, which is also in
Katy ISD. James Stone worked as
a teacher at Tompkins High
School.

Melinda Stone wrote a letter to
parents apologizing for any “disruption this disgraceful incident
may have caused.”
“I understand that you may
have questions or concerns and I
am available to speak with parents who wish to do so,” she
wrote. “Please know that I am
fully committed to serving Taylor
High School students, staff and
school community.”
Katy ISD officials said the district is taking this “type of incident very seriously and is fully
cooperating with law enforcement.”

A6 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

LAWSON
From page A1
A native of St. Louis,
Mo., Lawson grew up in
Kansas City, Kan., and
earned a bachelor’s degree in 1950 from Tennessee A&I State College
(now Tennessee State
University). When he
returned to St. Louis and
enrolled at Central Baptist Theological Seminary, he found his calling — and met his late
wife, Audrey Hoffman
Lawson.
They married in 1954
and, over the next several years, had four children.
In 1955 — the year
Emmett Till was lynched
in Mississippi and the
year Rosa Parks refused
to give up her seat on a
Montgomery, Ala., city
bus — Lawson moved
south. He came to Houston to teach and serve as
chaplain at the Baptist
Student Union at Texas
Southern University.
Houston is where
Lawson became involved
in the struggle for civil
rights. In 1960, when a
group of TSU students
staged a sit-in at a lunch
counter to protest segregation, they turned to
him for advice.
“I said to them, ‘Are
you serious?’” he told
the Chronicle in 2016.
“‘Your parents, grandparents worked their
tails off to get you into
school, and that’s the
last thing you ought to
want to be involved in.
You don’t want to get a
chance to be arrested
and have a jail record.’”
But the students did it
anyway — and when
they were arrested, Lawson and his wife helped
raise money to bail them
out of jail.
Lawson and his family
lived on the TSU campus, and in 1962 a few
other young families
approached him about
starting a church, he

recalled in a 2008 interview. Lawson didn’t
see himself as a pastor,
but he agreed to open a
church in his own family’s living room for those
friends.
Lawson told the 13
members he would serve
as their pastor until he
could find a young seminary graduate to take
over. But, as he recalled
in 2008, that never happened. After three years,
Lawson left his job at the
university and began to
lead Wheeler Avenue
full-time.
Its beginnings may
have been small and
uncertain, but the
church, steeped in the
Civil Rights Movement,
has become a Third
Ward and Houston institution and now has
more than 14,000 members.
Charlotte Bryant was
one of those initial 13
members.
“It was really God, I
think, that brought us
together,” said Bryant,
who is now executive
director of the Blue Triangle Community Center
in Third Ward.
She and her husband
and the other young
parents quickly became
a tight-knit church community. Their children
played together after the
services. “It was so
much fun in those days,”
Bryant said. “If you
missed a Sunday, we’d go
to visit you Sunday evening to see what your
problem was.”
The families wanted
someone who would
really teach them, she
said, not just preach at
them — and “Bill Lawson was just what we
needed.” He could always provide context
and background for the
Scripture he taught,
Bryant said, and “we
wanted to learn.”

Changing the city

Early on, Lawson
made room for women

HOUSTON CHRONICLE | HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM

tion of Houston met
more my style than the
picketing or protesting
— that was not my
style,” he said.

Important trio

Courtesy photo

The Rev. Bill A. Lawson befriended Martin Luther
King Jr. and invited him to speak at his church.

“He was like a father. He was a
mentor. He was someone who was
always there to give guidance.”
U.S. Rep. Al Green

in leadership roles, said
Algenita Davis, a longtime member who became a founding director
of the nonprofit William
A. Lawson Institute for
Peace and Prosperity in
1996. Lawson was ahead
of his time, she said,
especially for a Baptist
pastor.
“He had women on
the trustee board, he
made women deacons,”
Davis said. “And he

forged that way for
women because he believed in equality.”
Lawson worked for
racial equality as well. In
the early days of Wheeler Avenue Baptist, Lawson befriended Martin
Luther King Jr. and
chartered the Houston
chapter of King’s Southern Christian Leadership
Conference — a chapter
he led for more than 30
years.
By 1963, J. Edgar Hoover and the FBI had
labeled King a Communist and other black
churches in Houston
refused to host him —
but Lawson invited King
to speak at his church.
Like King, Lawson
believed that churches
had a responsibility to
play a role in the community and in society.
While other cities
segregated with violence
and destruction, Houston business leaders
came up with a plan to
avoid that. Black leaders
and white business owners met secretly at the
Rice Hotel and cut deals
to make segregation
disappear with little
fanfare and little violence. Lawson was there
— even though he had to
get to those meetings
through the hotel’s back
door and freight elevator. The “whites only”
and “colored” signs simply disappeared from
Houston’s stores and
water fountains overnight.
“He, I think, did more
than anyone, probably,
to keep Houston calm
during the civil rights
era,” said Lawson’s good
friend Joseph Fiorenza, a
former Catholic Archbishop Emeritus of Galveston-Houston, in an
interview with The
Chronicle several years
before his death.
“When other cities
were being bombed and
burned down,” Fiorenza
said, Lawson’s leadership helped bring people
in Houston together.
Lawson “was able to
quietly talk to the business communities, to say
‘This is not good for
Houston,’” Fiorenza
said. “And we were able
to do a lot of things to
quietly integrate the
public facilities here.”
Lawson spoke about
the city’s desegregation
in 2008 in an interview
for the Houston Oral
History Project.
“The quiet desegrega-

For decades, Lawson
was part of a trio of faith
leaders who became
friends and worked together on projects to
improve the community.
His friendship with Fiorenza, the former archbishop, and Samuel
Karff, rabbi emeritus of
Houston’s Congregation
Beth Israel, blended
collaboration with activism.
In an interview a few
years before he died in
2020, Karff said it
“turned out to be the
best kind of interfaith
relationship.”
They fought for racial
equality and worked
with the Anti-Defamation League to combat
antisemitism. In the
1980s, they saw an increasing homeless population in Houston and
led the effort to found a
United Way Homeless
Initiative, helping get
people off the streets and
into housing.
One of Karff ’s fondest
memories of their friendship was from 2010,
when the three worked
together to push for a
public defender office to
be created in Harris
County.
Karff said Lawson
called him and said
“Sam, I know you’re
retired … but I need
you.” He explained that
Harris County was the
nation’s only metro area
without a public defender to ensure poor residents got fair representation in court.
“I said, ‘Well, obviously that’s an injustice,
and you’ve got me in —
now give me my marching orders,” Karff recalled.
The rabbi, the archbishop and the Baptist
preacher, along with a
diverse group of local
faith leaders, scheduled
a meeting with County
Judge Ed Emmett, who
agreed to find money in
the budget for a public
defender.
“We look to Bill as our
leader in a sense, in a lot
of these projects,” Fiorenza said. “We want to
be sure Bill Lawson is
involved in it. If he’s
involved in it, we should
be too.”
But Lawson was a
funny, generous friend
as well, Karff said. A few
decades ago, when his
home in Meyerland
burned to the ground,
Lawson offered to replace the rabbi’s book
collection. Karff, who
was living with his wife
in a temporary apartment, didn’t have anywhere to store a new
book collection, so he
put Lawson off.
A few months later,
Karff received a surprise
delivery from Wheeler
Avenue Baptist Church.
A basket of kosher Passover goodies included a
kind and eloquent note
from Lawson, Karff said.
But he laughed when he
recalled how Lawson
ended it: “This note is
being sent to you from
an angry black pastor
who is still waiting to
hear from you about
your books.”

The ‘quiet storm’

Lawson’s way of expressing himself was
always full of humor and
a calm that put others at
ease, Bryant said. “We’ve
always teased him about
being a peaceful person,”
she said. “We called him
a ‘quiet storm.’”
But even so, he knew
how to get things done,
said Davis, the early
church member — and
he taught others how to
work together.
“He was instrumental
in getting many of our
local religious institutions to commit to community development,”
she said, harnessing the

members’ energy to do
something for the neighborhood or the city.
The William A. Lawson Institute for Peace
and Prosperity — called
WALIPP for short —
was named for Lawson
when it opened in 1996.
The institute is an advocacy agency that has
created two single-sex
middle schools and a
Third Ward independent
living facility for seniors.
The WALIPP Preparatory Academy for boys
was the first charter
school in Houston ISD.
WALIPP came about
when Lawson’s friends
and associates were
struggling to find a gift
to celebrate his 50 years
in the ministry, Davis
said.
“When you give him
stuff, he gives it back, or
he gives it away,” she
said, laughing, but they
knew Lawson wouldn’t
reject an organization
that could do good in his
community.
U.S. Rep. Al Green
was at the airport Tuesday morning when he
learned Lawson had
died.
Instead of flying to
Washington, D.C., Green
elected to stay in Houston and be with the Lawson family.
“He was like a father.
He was a mentor. He
was someone who was
always there to give
guidance,” Green said.
Lawson could bring
morality to issues when
others weren’t able to,
Green said, and those
moral standards helped
make him a peacemaker
when people were divided.
Green asked himself
many times, “What
would Lawson do?” or
“Where would he stand
on this issue?” The side
Lawson was on was not
only the right side but
also the righteous side,
Green said.
“You felt pretty safe if
you were on the side
with Rev. Lawson there,”
Green said.
Lawson retired from
the pulpit in 2004, but
he remained active in
Houston and in the
church until the end.
Even so, the city began
celebrating Lawson’s
legacy even before his
death.
In 2018, he was featured on a Houston Metro bus. He is also depicted in the 2018 “Sacred Struggles/Vibrant
Justice” mural along the
back of Pilgrim Congregational United Church
of Christ in Third Ward,
a work that depicts the
leaders who fought for
civil rights in Houston.
And Interfaith Ministries for Greater Houston’s “Plaza of Respect”
honors the friendship
and cooperation of Karff,
Fiorenza and Lawson.
“It’s been a joy to have
known him in my life,”
Bryant said, “not only as
a spiritual leader, but as
a friend, a comrade and
an adviser.”
Lawson’s vision and
his engaging manner
have achieved major
positive change in the
city he called home for
more than six decades,
Fiorenza said. “He’s just
been a great treasure to
Houston.”
The Rev. Lawson’s
body will lie in state
from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on
May 23 at Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, 3826
Wheeler Ave., Houston.
A Community Service
of Celebration will be
held at 6 p.m. on Thursday and the Congregational Service of Celebration will be held at 11
a.m. on May 24. Both
services will be held at
Wheeler Avenue Baptist
Church, 3826 Wheeler
Avenue, Houston, TX
77004.
This story was researched
and written by former
Chronicle staff writer
Alyson Ward. Shakari
Briggs and Peter Warren
contributed to this report.

HOUSTON CHRONICLE | HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A7

A8 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

HOUSTON CHRONICLE | HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM

Archbishop regrets posts on war in Gaza
By Melissa Renteria

account that uses the handle
@ABishopGustavo and links to
his Facebook page. García-Siller’s accounts on X and Facebook both link to the archdiocese’s official website.
Some of the comments to the
archbishop’s posts on X expressed bewilderment and
asked for explanation. Others
asked him to use his leadership
platform to urge more political
action to end the violence.
Jordan McMorrough, director of communications for the
archdiocese, told the Catholic
media outlet the Pillar that the

“personal account” of GarcíaSiller is not an official communication tool of the archdiocese.
The archbishop’s X account,
according to its biography section, was created in October
2017 and has more than 8,000
followers. A search of posts
over the past few weeks shows
prayer requests, reposts of Vatican news and messages from
Pope Francis, along with sermon-like statements in both
English and Spanish.
The archbishop’s Facebook
page, which lists him as a public figure and has more than

6,000 followers, does not appear to have posts or mentions
of the Israel-Hamas War or of
politics in general. Many of the
more recent posts on that page
are video clips of the archbishop celebrating Mass or attending an official archdiocese
event.
García-Siller’s social media
accounts remained active Monday.
The statement from the archdiocese, which was not posted
on its website or on social media, expressed regret that some
of the archbishop’s posts were

misinterpreted but offered no
clarification of his meaning.
The archdiocese did not make
García-Siller available for an interview.
In an email following up on
the statement, McMorrough
told the Express-News the
statement is the archdiocesan
comment on the matter.
“As was stated, Archbishop
Gustavo profoundly regrets
that recent X statements on the
Gaza conflict have been misinterpreted and caused discord,”
McMorrough wrote.
The bulk of the five-paragraph statement highlights the
archbishop’s record of working
with the Jewish community
and his history of calling for
peace and prayers, including on
social media.
“Archbishop Gustavo GarcíaSiller, MSpS, has consistently
called for an end to violence in
Gaza and around the world,”
the statement says. “Archbishop Gustavo has preached
strongly and emphatically
against anti-Semitism through
the years, including many public statements in the media abhorring anti-Semitic acts.”
The statement also mentions
the archbishop’s condemnation
of vandalism at Rodfei Sholom
Congregation, an Orthodox
synagogue on the city’s North
Side that was spray-painted
with graffiti in 2015.
And it mentions his participation in an annual Hanukkah
luncheon jointly hosted by the
city’s Jewish and Catholic communities as “an event which
fosters unity.”
García-Siller was named
archbishop of San Antonio by
Pope Benedict XVI in 2010.

employs more than 1,000 people
on its website, doesn’t need the
same level of staff to support the
smaller population, Murphy
said.
“Tomorrow morning, we’re
going to be notifying a fair number of our employees that their
positions have been eliminated,”
he said Monday. “We have taken
the time to be very thoughtful.
It’s very important to us that peo-

ple are well taken care of.”
He said the plan is providing
“transitional assistance” for employees to find new jobs. Coverage will not be impacted, he said.
Other health plans that serve
the Houston area took a hit from
the Medicaid unwinding process. Community Health Choice
lost about 35% of its membership,
officials told the Chronicle in January, and the organization had to

cut a portion of its staff. The decision affected an estimated 130
employees, said Cynthia Cole, executive director of the employees’
union, AFSCME Local 1550.
The staff reduction at Texas
Children’s Health Plan is not related to the recent dispute over
the Medicaid STAR and CHIP
contract. The plan was notified
earlier this year that it would not
be awarded the contract under a

new procurement process. If finalized, that decision would be a
devastating financial blow to the
health plan and could threaten
coverage for its 450,000 members, Murphy said.
Texas Children’s has filed a
protest and sued the Texas
Health and Human Services
Commission over the decision,
calling the contract award process “flawed.”

STA FF WRIT E R

Days after posting about the
Israel-Hamas war on social media, San Antonio Archbishop
Gustavo García-Siller removed
an unknown number of the
comments and the archdiocese
that he leads issued a statement
saying he regretted how people
reacted to them.
“The archbishop deeply regrets that posts in recent days
on the war in Gaza have caused
confusion and misunderstanding in some,” the Archdiocese
of San Antonio statement said.
García-Siller had posted a series of statements on X, formerly Twitter, over a few hours on
May 7 that expressed solidarity
with Palestinians while also
seeming to conflate all Jewish
people with Israeli actions in
Gaza. Some of the more contentious posts were removed by
the morning of May 9.
Released to media late last
week, the archdiocese statement stopped short of expressing a direct apology, saying
García-Siller had “removed a
few of the comments” and emphasized his years of work and
solidarity with the Jewish community.
It didn’t directly identify the
comments that it said GarcíaSiller regrets. Among those
that were removed, presumably
by the archbishop, was one that
said, “Why Israel wants to destroy lives Palestines. Why, O
Lord, allow people to hate so
much to kill people. The Holocaust was already forgotten for
Jews and everyone else.”
García-Siller’s name and
photo are on the social media

HEALTH PLAN
From page A1
who were covered under those
rules. Of the 2 million who lost
coverage in the redetermination
process, roughly 1.3 million have
lost coverage for procedural reasons, such as not submitting paperwork.
The health plan, which says it

Marvin Pfeiffer/Staff photographer

San Antonio Archbishop Gustavo García-Siller at the Thanksgiving Interfaith Service last year.
Some of his social media posts on the Israel-Hamas war have been removed last week.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A9

HOUSTON CHRONICLE | HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM

Trial in Astroworld death of
9-year-old set for September

DEI
From page A1
dents, eliminated far fewer jobs overall than UT,
Sharp said, primarily because there were fewer
DEI programs in the first
place.
“I’m asked all the time,
how come y’all didn’t fire
61 people like your brothers over in Austin?” Sharp
said. “Well, we only had
eight, so it’s pretty difficult
to get to 61.”
The DEI ban is the latest
in a chain of actions taken
by the Republican-majority Legislature, including a
ban on teaching critical
race theory, restricting
tenure policies at Texas
universities and directing
campus free speech rules.
Democrats and minority advocates have decried
the law as rolling back
supports for the most vulnerable student populations on college campuses.
After UT-Austin fired dozens of employees who previously worked in DEI
roles, Hearst Newspapers
found they were disproportionately women and
people of color.
Sen. Jose Menendez, DSan Antonio, said DEI
programs have helped disadvantaged students and
their families navigate
university systems that
have long catered to people of privilege.
“All we want is a fair
and level playing field …
but sometimes we need directions to where the
game is,” he said. “Some
folks, because their families have been in the game
for a long time, they know
where to go and how to get
in.”
During the hearing,
Sen. Royce West, D-Dallas, said he was concerned
the DEI ban would end up
“throwing out the baby
with the bathwater” by removing vital support services.
University leaders said
Tuesday that they plan to
use the funds freed up
from the ban to invest in

By John Wayne
Ferguson
STA F F W R I T ER

Juan Figueroa/Dallas Morning News

Michael Anderson, a UT-Arlington sophomore,
leads students in a protest of state policies April 3.

new, broader support services and recruit a more
diverse student body,
which is not prohibited by
the bill.
“We are doubling down
on the kinds of programs
that are available to all
Texans. And those are
without regard to the
identity of anyone,” Milliken said.
The hearing comes just
weeks after dozens of
demonstrators were arrested at UT-Austin during protests over the war
in Gaza.
Despite earlier reports
from UT officials that
most of those arrested
were not students, Texas
Department of Public
Safety Lt. Col. Freeman
Martin testified that of the
134 arrests on campus in
late April, 61 were affiliated with the university as
either students, faculty or
staff.
Sen. Brandon Creighton, a Conroe Republican
and the committee’s chair,
blasted the protests, calling them “an effort to intimidate Jewish students
and faculty” by “proHamas groups.”
At one point, one of the
people sitting in the
packed gallery quietly but
audibly interjected: “Liar.”
In the first panel of the
lengthy hearing, Levi Fox,
a student at UT-Austin
and member of Longhorn
Students for Israel, said
he’d experienced anti-Jewish hate since war began
last fall, including a pro-

fessor remarking to him
that “they’ll come after
you and put you in the ovens next.”
He declined to name the
professor.
“Now let me be clear,
not every person participating in these protests
are Jew haters who want
to see the destruction of
the Jewish people,” Fox
said. “But every person
who wants to see the destruction and murder of
the Jewish people is a part
of these protests.”
The
demonstrations
were part of a wave of protests and Gaza solidarity
encampments at colleges
and universities across the
country. In Texas, protesters called on university
leaders to specifically cut
financial ties with Israel.
Toward the end of their
time testimony, the UT
and A&M chancellors
were asked by Creighton
whether they agreed that
the campus demonstrations were “anti-Jewish
protests in their very nature.”
Milliken, the UT chancellor, said he agreed with
Fox’s earlier testimony
that there were elements
of the protests that were
antisemitic.
“Yes, the answer is yes,”
he said. He said UT wanted to protect freedom of
speech, especially political
speech, “but we won’t allow people to be unsafe.
And we won’t allow people to be threatened and
intimidated.”

The civil trial over the
death of a 9-year-old boy
killed at the 2021 Astroworld Festival is scheduled to start in September.
Harris County 11th District Court Judge Kristine
Hawkins and attorneys in
the case agreed Tuesday to
set a fall date for the final
remaining civil case over
one of the 10 deaths at the
concert. Ezra Blount, 9,
suffered critical injuries
after falling from his father’s shoulders amid the
crowd crush during festival headliner’s Travis
Scott’s performance.
The move comes less
than a week after nine of
the 10 lawsuits involving
deaths at the festival were
settled. Attorneys were
preparing for the start of
the first jury trial over an

Astroworld death, which
would have focused on 23year-old Madison Dubiski, when the settlements
were reached.
Scott, concert promoter
Live Nation and Apple,
which livestreamed the
concert, were among the
defendants that reached
confidential settlements
with the victims’ families.
Blount’s family is being
represented by attorney
Scott West, as well as
famed civil rights attorney
Ben Crump.
Hawkins set the trial
date for Blount’s case for
September, and tentatively
set an October court date
for a group of seven injured plaintiffs, who will
act as bellwethers for the
remainder of the victims.
The seven chosen victims
will represent a “degree of
injuries” of people who attended the concert, West
said.

The remaining victims
are seeking to have Live
Nation CEO Michael Rapino deposed.
Since March, the plaintiffs have argued that Rapino has “unique and personal knowledge” about
the problems that occurred during the 2018 and
2019 iterations of the Astroworld Festival and
about planning for the
2021 event. Live Nation objected, saying the request
came late and that Rapino
had no “personal involvement” in Astroworld 2021.
Live Nation’s attempt to
block the deposition
failed, and Hawkins told
attorneys to arrange for
him to be deposed in the
near future. Neal Manne,
Live Nation’s attorney, said
the company might appeal
to the Texas Supreme
Court.
The next hearing is
scheduled for June 3.

A10 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

HOUSTON CHRONICLE | HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM

BUDGET
From page A1
And we’re still learning
on a daily basis where we
can have savings.”

Varied impacts

About half of Houston’s total budget, or $3.3
billion, goes into a general fund primarily supported by property and
sales taxes. The fund covers daily services like policing, trash collection,
parks and libraries. The
rest is directed to enterprise funds, which are
self-sustaining and use
fees and charges to pay
for specific operations.
In line with previous
years’ breakdown, funding for the Houston Police Department, at $1.04
billion, and the Houston
Fire Department, at $636
million, would account
for half of the city’s proposed general fund budget. Whitmire said this
reflects his continued prioritization of public safety.
The Planning and Development Department
would see the largest
budget reduction of 27%
under Whitmire’s new
plan.
Public
Works
would also see a doubledigit cut of 13%. However,
only a small portion of
Public Works’ revenue
comes from the general
fund, with the bulk of its
funding stemming from
water, sewage and drainage fees.
The Controller’s Office,
City Council and Fire Department would see the
largest percentage increases in their budgets
for the new fiscal year, at
17%, 8% and 7%, respectively.
The administration is
set to present more detailed breakdowns of
each department’s spending plan during a series of
budget workshops scheduled from May 15 to May
28, before City Council
votes on the final proposal in June.

Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

Mayor John Whitmire unveils his plan for the city budget at a news conference Tuesday. Some departments will see cuts as high as 27%.

New liabilities

The recent firefighters’
settlement — which includes $650 million in
backpay, up to 34% salary
increases and additional
funding for special incentives — will take an immediate toll on the city
budget. This financial
strain is also expected to
persist for decades as the
city plans to spread the
backpay cost through a
bond.
The fiscal year 2025
budget will include the
impact of a first-year 10%
pay raise for firefighters,
around $31 million in debt
payment, as well as $10
million in educational incentives and other new
special pay for the department.

Another major development set to strain the
city’s budget is the latest
court ruling that found
the city has been significantly underfunding the
amount of property taxes
dedicated to streets and
drainage
since
2016.
Whitmire previously said
the city planned to appeal
the decision, despite his
campaign promise last
year to stop shorting the
drainage fund.
Dubowski estimated
the ruling would cost the
city $100 million more in
fiscal year 2025. However,
the current proposal does
not include this additional cost, as Whitmire said
he is in conversations
with the plaintiffs to discuss a potential settle-

ment.
Meanwhile, Houston’s
municipal
employees
union is negotiating pay
raises for its members.
Dubowski said the estimated costs from the new
labor contract are factored into the existing budget proposal but declined
to reveal their projected
amount.
To find more cost-saving measures to cover
these major financial liabilities, Whitmire said
the city will undertake a
comprehensive review of
each department in the
coming months. He said
he will also continue to
work with other government entities — including
Harris County, Metro and
state agencies — to share

the costs of running city
services.
“Things are in place to
get through 2025 without
raising taxes through efficiencies and collaboration,” Whitmire said.

Hit to reserves

Houston has long
struggled with a structural deficit, where recurring expenses outstrip
revenues. The city has
previously tried to cover
the gap with one-time
revenues like land sales
and maintenance deferrals.
In recent years, Turner’s administration used
federal COVID-19 relief
funds to amass the largest budget reserve the
city has seen in decades.

Dubowski recently estimated Houston would
have a fund balance of
$468 million by the end of
the current fiscal year,
$282 million above the legally required minimum.
However, with the last
of the pandemic relief
funds set to cover this
year’s deficit, Houston’s
reserve is projected to
drop to $280 million by
the end of the next fiscal
year, returning to preCOVID levels, according
to Dubowski.
“Those challenges are
something that we’re going to confront in fiscal
year ‘25 to build toward
fiscal year ‘26,” Dubowski
said.
Dylan McGuinness
contributed to this report.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A11

HOUSTON CHRONICLE | HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM

OPINION
Alejandra Matos

Jack Sweeney

MA NAG I N G E D I TO R F O R AU D I E N C E

Lisa Falkenberg

C HA I R MA N

A ND C O N TE N T STRATE GY

V P/ E D I TO R O F O P I N I O N

F o u n d e d 1 9 0 1 • A H e a r s t N e w s pa p e r
Nancy A. Meyer

•

PU BLIS H ER & PRE S I D EN T

Kelly Ann Scott

Jennifer Chang

Raj Mankad

SV P/ ED I T O R-I N-C H I EF

SE N I O R D I RE C TO R O F

D E P U TY O P I N I O N E D I TO R

EX P ER I MEN TAT I O N AN D I N N OVATI O N

EDITORIAL

Don’t cut HISD’s
‘wraparound’
lifeline
critical needs that keep kids out of
We knew cuts were coming. Stateclassrooms for decades longer than
appointed Superintendent Mike Miles
we’ve had wraparound. And we could
has been clear since he arrived last
year about the perilous financial situa- see an expanded role for them if the
district is willing to split the bill for
tion that Houston ISD is facing. The
CIS services.
school district, like others across the
But smaller organizations especially
state, is approaching a fiscal cliff due
to the end of federal pandemic funding rely on the campus-level knowledge of
wraparound specialists. As one HISD
and a bum steer state Legislature that
student testified at the Board of Mandidn’t adjust school funding for inflation and held up other badly needed agers meeting Thursday evening, her
campus specialist is someone kids
support. But Miles promised to keep
budget cuts as far away from students, there trust, whose door is always open
and who seems to always have time to
and the classroom, as possible.
listen. And they can deliver the speHow’d he do in keeping that promcialized types of services that are parise?
ticular to a community: translators
After learning Friday that some
who can speak Pashto, for example, in
teachers and principals have been
the immigrant-rich neighborhood
asked by the district to resign, HISD
schools of Gulfton.
parents have taken to the sidewalks,
We’re concerned, then, by the shift
picketing outside their schools by the
away from the campus-based aphundreds with signs that read “#LYproach to a more diffuse
INGFMIKE” and “Fire
approach. Miles has
Miles Not Our Principals.”
seven soYet, it’s not that simple.
Parents have introduced
called Sunrise Centers
The district maintains that
taken to the
that are meant to be a
the forced resignations of
one-stop shop co-located
teachers and principals
sidewalks,
at neighborhood hubs,
are driven by performance
picketing
such as a YMCA or
evaluations. Those posiBakerRipley. But they
tions will be filled, partly
outside schools got
off to a rocky start.
with hiring events the
We learned, after talking
district is currently holdwith service providers
ing. The same can’t be said
big and small, many of which wanted
of budget-driven layoffs of other staff.
We’re still waiting for total numbers to remain anonymous to keep a positive relationship with the district going
and a budget for the upcoming school
forward, that the Sunrise Centers are
year (tick tock, Mr. Miles) but so far
still struggling with inconsistent utilinews of layoffs has hit employees inzation due to a lack of awareness,
cluding custodians and maintenance
accessibility and even trust among the
workers, librarians and “wraparound
community.
specialists,” who are akin to social
There are some things that must
workers.
happen at the campus level, with
We’d argue that all of these positions have a direct impact on students. someone able to coordinate and be
Wraparound specialists are particular- responsive to daily needs. One community partner told us about a student
ly critical for students who face chalwho needed a bus pass — usually
lenges at home that can impact how
something a wraparound specialist
much they learn in school. Roughly
can provide. This time, though, the
170 are being cut.
student was told they’d need to go to a
Teachers in the classroom do what
Sunrise Center to pick up a pass.
they can for such kids but even the
A district spokesperson told us it is
most gifted educators can struggle to
still planning to employ 48 wraphelp a student who sleeps in his
around specialists, plus a 12-person
mom’s car at night. HISD has an estimated 6,300 homeless students. Wrap- central office team, for a district that
has some 250 campuses classified as
around specialists are the people who
Title I schools, where at least 40 perknow which community partner to
cent of students qualify for free and
ask when a campus needs 20 towels
reduced lunch based on their houseand body wash so students without
hold income.
stable access to a shower can use one
So we get a few specialists stretched
on campus. Or when a 4-year-old
needs an alarm clock because his mom thin to cover a district with incredible
need and a few centers with limited
is already at work when it’s time for
hours and no district-provided transhim to wake up and get to school. Or
portation? At what savings? And at
when a kid doesn’t have their own
what cost to families?
bed. These are just a few of the exThe centers cost somewhere around
amples we heard from some of the
$12 million while the cuts to wraphundreds of community partners that
around specialists are expected to save
work with the district. Most of those
some $10 million. There’s a world in
we spoke with told us the specialists
which these centers could be excellent
are indispensable to doing their own
complements to strong, campus-based
work and helping students stay in
relationships. But they certainly can’t
school.
replace them.
Wraparound specialists have been
Since December, Sunrise Centers
in the district since 2017, expanding
have served 14,012 families, according
from a community-led effort to roughto the district. Wraparound specially 280 workers, with HISD aiming at
one point to place a specialist on every ists, meanwhile, can log that many
campus. They do everything from find requests in a single month; the district
counted a year-high of 14,479 service
money for rent, offer Metro bus passes, feed hungry kids, even get washers requests in October 2023, for example.
And they can do it on campus, withand dryers installed on some campusout erecting any more hurdles for
es for families to use. A district analyfamilies.
sis published in 2020 found that stuMike Miles didn’t cause the finandents who received help from wrapcial crisis facing HISD, though some
around specialists even saw signifhave questioned the rise in staffers
icantly better test scores.
making more than $200,000, a figure
“You can’t get any closer to stuthat tripled under his watch. Most of
dents,” one educator and community
the blame, though, lies with Gov. Greg
member explained during Thursday’s
Abbott, who basically held school
Board of Managers public comment
funding hostage in a failed attempt to
period.
force lawmakers to pass private school
Indeed. And yet, we can hear the
vouchers. But within HISD, Miles and
voices of the skeptics out there, decrythe appointed board of managers are
ing the nanny state or arguing, with
the ones who must address the shortgood reason, that today’s public
fall.
schools are asked to do too much as it
We implore them to carefully conis.
sider the costs and benefits of a lifeline
Why should district staff try to
that can keep students in the classsolve every problem when Houston
room. In a high poverty district, even
seems to have innumerable nonprofits
the highest quality instruction that
dedicated to helping children and
Miles emphasizes is lost on a kid
families in need? The well-respected
nonprofit Communities In Schools, for whose hunger or homelessness or
filthy school uniform kept him out of
example, is embedded on dozens of
school that day.
campuses and has been meeting the

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Biden vs. Trump
Regarding “In the 2024 presidential
election, it’s The Godfather vs. Yoda |
Opinion,” (May 11): Donald Trump as
Don Vito Corleone, and Joe Biden as
Yoda, huh? I’d go with different movie
characters.
Corleone actually had some admirable qualities. He was disciplined, seemingly truthful and, as played by Marlon
Brando, honorable in his own way. No,
I’ll go Trump as Col. Nathan Jessup, as
portrayed by Jack Nicholson in “A Few
Good Men.” Ruthless, power-obsessed,
indifferent about truth and very willing to sacrifice others to advance himself.
Biden as Yoda? That’s way too generous. I’d go with Biden as Norman
Thayer, as played by Henry Fonda in
“On Golden Pond.” A good and decent
fellow, who in the movie displays all
the signs of advanced age and diminished abilities. Biden has no more
business running the country than
Norman had driving the boat.
What we really need is to go back to
central casting and ask them to send in
two new actors. How about a Tom
Hanks type, and a Denzel Washington?
David Bradley, Spring

This article reminded me of a similar characterization the media made in
2000, comparing George W. Bush and
Al Gore to Ralph Malph and Potsie
Weber from “Happy Days.” Personally,
being older, I could not help viewing it
through the lens of “Leave It to Beaver,” with Lumpy Rutherford running
against Eddie Haskell — and Lumpy
winning.
George Connelly, Houston

Salute to school nurses
Regarding “Houston Chronicle Salute to Nurses celebrates nursing excellence,” (May 3): The recent Salute to
Nurses supplement on Sunday, May 5,
was very well done, but you left out the
amazing, dedicated, hardworking
school nurses. My daughter-in-law is
the registered nurse at a Houston ISD
high school. She is the only nurse there
and cares for almost 2,700 students!
HISD school nurses see all kinds of
health issues, from administering daily
prescribed medications to sending
feverish students home, as well as drug
overdoses, and sometimes injuries
from a gang fight. My daughter-in-law
maintains health records for all the
students, and this is an ongoing task
since many students move frequently.
She often works very late because she
is so overloaded. She does all this because she loves her work and cares for
the students, often teaching them selfcare skills they may not have learned
at home.
Perhaps the Houston Chronicle
could dedicate a time to honor all our
wonderful school nurses.
Jo Merrily King, Houston

Honoring Latino culture
Regarding “What my mother taught
me about tortillas. And life. | Opinion,”
(May 10): This touching article brought
back the memory of my grandmother
Minnie, and how she used to make
those fluffy, flour tortillas. Now, when I
smell the flowing aroma of tortillas
cooking, it brings me back to the nostalgic recollection of home, of being a
child. I love going to Ninfa’s on Naviga-

tion and watching the ladies pat those
fresh, handmade tortillas by hand.
Many folks may not understand our
culture and what this means to Latinos. These are beautiful memories of
our rich culture.
Chef Adán Medrano beautifully
explores the profound connection
between food, culture and family. He
reminisces about his mother, Dominga
Mora Medrano, and how she imparts
invaluable lessons through the art of
making tortillas. Medrano unravels
layers of wisdom passed down through
generations, highlighting the importance of preserving culinary traditions
as a means of honoring our heritage
and identity. Medrano’s article not only
celebrates the humble tortilla but also
serves as a reminder of the resilience,
love and cultural richness embedded in
every meal shared with our loved ones.
I pray that the new generation of
young Latinos continue to honor their
rich culture, and preserve it with dignity and pride.
Blanca Blanco, Houston

Speaking up for babies
Regarding “I’m a Harris County
commissioner and a mom. Texas’ abortion law endangers our daughters. |
Opinion,” (May 10): Harris County
Commissioner Lesley Briones states
that she is a mother, Latina and Catholic who is sickened to see freedoms
stripped from all young women. I am a
father, a proud Polish American and
also Catholic and I am sickened to see
innocent babies’ lives violently ended.
The child lacks a voice to speak up
in their own defense and may be the
most marginalized demographic of all.
Pro-abortion policies seem to be about
telling babies they can’t have a life. The
actual procedure is rarely openly discussed. Why not? Too disturbing perhaps?
Abortion can only be justified by
dehumanizing the baby being aborted.
Working to create a world where abortion is not necessary because every
woman and unborn child has access to
support and assistance should be the
goal. Yes, women need to have stabilizing care, but hopefully that can be
done without eliminating innocent
lives.
Michael Spiech, Sugar Land

Women aren’t only ones
Regarding “Stormy Daniels delivers
shocking testimony about Trump, but
trial hinges on business records,” (May
9): I was intrigued by the suggestion
that publicizing former President Donald Trump’s sexual encounter with
Stormy Daniels could “further hurt
him in the eyes of female voters.” I
have and cherish two sisters, four
daughters and my wife of more than
60 years. I submit that one need not be
a woman to abhor this crass man’s
mistreatment of women. That mistreatment is just one of many reasons
for men, as well as women, not to vote
for him. Surely the Republican Party
can do better.
Jim Greenwood, Houston

BIBLE VERSE
The LORD detests lying lips, but he
delights in people who are trustworthy.
Proverbs 12:22

SEND LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Viewpoints c/o Houston Chronicle, 4747 Southwest Freeway, Houston, Texas, 77027 or viewpoints@chron.com.
We welcome and encourage letters and emails from readers. Letters must include name, address
and telephone numbers for verification purposes only. All letters are subject to editing.

FLAVOR

HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM • WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 • SECTION A

Sparks fly as chef Max Lappé fans wood coals to raise the heat before using them to grill oysters at Baso.

Baso brings the drama
By Alison Cook
STA FF WRIT E R

Just stepping into the anteroom
at Baso, the young Basque-inspired live-fire restaurant in the
Heights, I could feel my pulse
quicken. Purposefully calm in its
neutral tones, the space gave
glimpses into a chic minimalist
cavern and sweep of open kitchen
beyond, flames leaping out from a
large square hearth.
Here was the promise of drama
— backed up by substance, I came
to discover over the course of
three dinners and a well-executed
18-course wine dinner I signed up
for, curious to see the range of
co-chefs Jacques Varon and Max
Lappé.
Both men trained on the West
Coast under Josh Skenes, whose
San Francisco restaurant Saison
served me one of the best tasting
menus of my life 11 years ago, in its
heyday. Lappé is a Houston native, and the two met at the nowclosed Skenes project Angler in

Basque-inspired live-fire restaurant
features co-chefs who turn up the
heat on a menu meant for sharing

Photos by Michael Wyke/Contributor

The fire-cooked shrimp on the half shell, with garlic and chili, is covered
with powdered calabrian chiles.

L.A., where live fire, modern
technique and impeccably
sourced seafood set the agenda.
They offer a variety of small
courses backed up by big plates of
fire-cooked meat and fish, all
meant for sharing. You can dine
solo here — and I have done so
happily at the snug bar — but it
takes a companion or two or three
to appreciate the menu.
And — if you can book it — a
kitchen counter seat in view of
the hearth, where I watched in
fascination as a grilled oyster dish
with green garlic and “toasted
milk” came together. The Matagorda shellfish were topped with
a verdant, savory garlic-stem
mash, then set in a sunken chamber in front of the flaming grill,
where chunks of log flare and pop
and collapse on themselves, constantly replenished. Then a cook
wielding a round wire basket
filled with glowing coals shook it
above the oysters, again and
again, so that they
Review continues on A15

Yoyo’s Hot Dog embroiled in dispute over ownership
By Sonia Garcia
STAFF WRIT E R

Business appears to be
running as usual at Yoyo’s
Hot Dog after a hiatus earlier this year. But behind
the scenes, its key players
have been at odds.
Yoyo’s Hot Dog gained a
cult-like following over
the past 14 years operating
food carts. The menu consisted of one item: a grilled
100% beef dog inside a
toasted bun with cream
cheese, topped with both
caramelized onions and
crunchy fried onions,

drizzled with a red sauce
and a special “Yoyo’s
sauce.” Yoyo’s has posted
up in Rice Village, Midtown and east downtown,
becoming a go-to latenight food spot for bar patrons.
The business graduated
to an outpost at Post
Houston food hall in December 2023; a mere 18
days after opening, it went
radio silent. The location
remained closed until Feb.
10. Yoyo’s fairly active social media accounts were
stagnant until Feb. 14,
when owner and founder

Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer

Danny Kim is the founder of Yoyo’s Hot Dogs.

Danny “Yoyo” Kim alerted
customers on Facebook
that someone else had
been impersonating Yoyo’s Hot Dog and had
locked him out of its Instagram account.
Kim told the Houston
Chronicle that person was
Kevin Dang. He joined Yoyo’s about four years ago.
Dang told the Chronicle
he became a co-owner by
investing in the business
in order to expand it, but
Kim denies that transaction ever occurred. It was
an informal agreement, he
said.

Early on, Dang was given authority to operate a
Yoyo’s food cart in College
Station, from which Kim
said he never saw the
profits. The two agreed
Dang would be at the forefront of opening the Post
location in downtown
Houston. Kim said he was
dealing with family issues
at the time.
Dang created a new
LLC for the Post business,
which was linked to a
bank account separate
from the one Kim had
been using for the food
Yoyo’s continues on A15

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A13

HOUSTON CHRONICLE | HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM

WORD SLEUTH

DAILY CROSSWORD

JUMBLE

Find the listed words in the diagram. They run in all directions — forward, backward,
up, down and diagonally. ©2024 King Features Syndicate Inc.

Tuesday’s unlisted
clue: RYAN.
Wednesday’s unlisted
clue hint: ONCE IN
A — —.

THE USE OF COLOR

Black Sea
Blue law
Brown rice
Gold rush
Gray matter
Green Bay
Green card
Green tea
Pink slip
Red Cross
Red fox
Red Sea
Silver City
White ash
White lie

SUDOKU

CRYPTOQUIP

Complete the grid so that every row, column and 3x3 box contains the
numbers 1 to 9.

The Cryptoquip is a substitution cipher in which one letter stands for
another. If you think that X equals O, it will equal O throughout the
puzzle. Single letters, short words and words using an apostrophe give
you clues to locating vowels. Solution is by trial and error.
©2024 King Features Syndicate, Inc.

53 Teamwork
impediment
55 Woodsman
material, in Oz
56 Positive spin on a
bad situation, or a
feature of 20-, 31-,
38-, and 45-Across
59 Course for a class
pres., maybe
62 “Sesame Street”
toddler
63 Ice cream parlor
option
64 __ dog
65 Coastal inlets
66 Indigo shrub
67 Ish
68 Longings
69 On a ferry, perhaps
DOWN
1 Sri Lankans, e.g.
2 Swarming insect
3 Writers with good
taste, hopefully
4 Roman time units
5 Party game
also known as
“Werewolf”
6 Icy moon of Jupiter
7 Swiftie or Belieber
8 Feline friend
9 Unusual
instrument in the
“1812 Overture”
10 College tour
giveaways
11 Conagra cooking
spray brand
12 “My lips __ sealed”

GOLDEN GLOBE BEST
PICTURE WINNERS - DRAMA

By Rena Cohen

What
to watch

WEDNESDAY
May 15, 2024

All times Central. Start times can vary based
on cable/satellite provider. Confirm times on
your on-screen guide.

Queen Rock Montreal

Disney+
This is the first concert film to be available
with IMAX Enhanced sound powered by DTS.
While the film can be enjoyed in any format,
subscribers on IMAX Enhanced-certified
devices will be able to feel the full dynamic
range of every moment in this digitally
remastered chronicle of iconic rock band
Queen’s concerts that originally took place
on Nov. 24 and 25, 1981, and were arranged
specifically to be filmed for a full-length concert film to document the band’s live show.

X-Men ’97

Disney+  Season Finale
The first season of Marvel Animation’s revival
of X-Men: The Animated Series concludes with
“Tolerance Is Extinction — Part 3.”

Ashley Madison:
Sex, Lies & Scandal

Netflix  New Series
This three-episode docuseries tells the story
behind what happened when Ashley Madison, a dating site for people seeking adulterous affairs, was hacked, causing millions
of users’ intimate data to be exposed — a
massive leak that wrecked marriages and
destroyed lives.

Walker

The CW, 7 p.m.
In the new episode “Hold Me Now,” Stella (Violet Brinson) goes to Bonham (Mitch Pileggi)
for self-defense training, while August (Kale
Culley) excels at boot camp.

The Masked Singer

FOX, 7 p.m.
Two new episodes of The Masked Singer air
tonight. In “Road to the Semi-Finals,” relive
some of the season’s highlights and see exclusive behind-the-scenes moments. Follow-

13 Flanders of
Springfield
21 One with an
easygoing
personality
22 “Nearly done ... “
26 Rabbinical
students’ goals
27 Tulum attraction
28 Waiting eagerly
30 Wharton who was
the first woman
to win the Pulitzer
Prize for Fiction
32 Drexler who was
part of Houston’s
Phi Slama Jama in
the early 1980s
33 Chemical
concentration
measurement
35 Sour salad green
38 Not sporting home
colors
39 Granny
40 Amazon drop-off
41 “Likewise!”
46 “Drivers License”
singer Rodrigo
47 Austria’s language
49 Mouse with a
polka-dotted
dress
50 Actress Lansbury
54 Lip __
56 Auctioneer’s cry
57 Nobelist Wiesel
58 Sweet Sixteen org.
59 “Gah!”
60 Upsilon neighbor
61 Negroni liquor

ANSWER: When the guy performed his first lunge in the
gym’s aerobics class, it was a big step forward.

©2024 King Features Syndicate, Inc.

YESTERDAY’S ANSWERS

ACROSS
1 __ Romeo:
motorsport brand
5 Soccer goal
material
9 Congressional
hearings airer
14 Momentarily
15 Hybrid or coupe
16 In the know
17 App store image
18 47-Down woman
19 Gave an identity
20 Broadway
contender’s
number
23 Presidential
advisory gp.
24 Dachshund’s bark
25 U2 collaborator
Brian
26 Roman time unit
29 Amoxicillin target
31 Item that may
spruce up empty
floor space
34 Caesar’s final day
36 __ Vegas
37 Prefix with
-syncrasy
38 Check for
immunity
42 “Not so fast”
43 Rust color
44 Filmmaker Ethan
or Joel
45 Last part of a relay
48 Netflix genre
51 “__ queen!”
52 Luau garland

By Bobby Wolff

Nature

The Conners

‘X-Men ’97’
MARVEL ANIMATION

grown-ish

Freeform, 9 p.m.
Aaron (Trevor Jackson) takes a leap of faith
with Zoey (Yara Shahidi), and Andre (Marcus
Scribner) is offered an assistant role by Rich
Paul in the new episode “What I Want.”

ABC, 8:30 p.m.
In the new episode “Flying, Applying and
Rassling Gators,” Dan (John Goodman)
achieves a major financial milestone, making him reconsider his belief in the Conners
curse.

Chicago P.D.

The Amazing Race

Pompeii: The New Dig

CBS, 8:30 p.m.  Season Finale
In “The Longest Minute of Your Life,” the
Season 36 finale, the remaining three teams
get schooled in American history, but only
one team will be crowned the winners and
get a $1 million prize.

NBC, 9 p.m.
In the new episode “Inventory,” intelligence
chases down a lead in the ongoing serial-killer investigation as news of the case
reaches the public.
PBS, 9 p.m.  Season Premiere
Following the biggest excavation to be carried out in a generation at the world’s most
famous archaeological site, this new season will track even more discoveries found
during the current dig that is underway.

Try your hand as South on this
play problem. Your two-notrump rebid is hardly classical,
but three diamonds would
consume a lot of bidding space
and would typically denote a
six-card suit. Partner checks for
a spade fit before placing the
contract in six no-trump. You
receive the lead of the heart
eight: Plan the play.
You appear to have excellent
play for slam — indeed, if the
diamonds split 3-2, you might
even make an overtrick. Are
there any potential pitfalls?
This lead has attacked
dummy’s only surefire outside
entry to the spades, which are
blocked. If you are to realize
dummy’s spade tricks, you
must preserve an entry. You
could insert the heart queen,
hoping the king is onside, but if
East won and returned the suit,
you would be in hot water even
if diamonds were breaking. You
should instead play small from
dummy, letting East have the
trick cheaply. A heart return
will run around to dummy’s
ace-queen, so East will switch,
but now the heart entry remains in dummy.
You cash the three top diamonds, finding the bad news;
East discards a heart and a
LEAD WITH THE ACES

TCM Spotlight:
First Name Basis

spade. You play the club ace
and king, unblocking dummy’s
10. Next come the spade ace,
heart ace and dummy’s spades.
When you reach the two-card
ending, East will have to keep
his heart king and will be
squeezed out of his club guard.
If clubs had originally been 3-3,
you would know to drop West’s
jack at the end, since East’s
other card appears to be the
heart king.
ANSWER: Open one spade on
your strong holding. In third
position, you should bid where
you live with a minimum hand,
since the focus switches from
constructive bidding to competing the part-score and directing
the lead. Getting your partner
to attack spades if he ends up on
lead more than makes up for the
risk of seeing him raise you too
high — especially if he is familiar
with your third-seat openers.

CATCH A
CLASSIC
TCM, beginning at 7 p.m.
Turner Classic Movies continues its
monthlong, Wednesday night spotlight on
famous films with one-name titles using
the name of a primary character. Tonight’s
five titles are all musicals, beginning with
the1958 Best Picture Oscar-winning Gigi
(pictured), led by Leslie Caron as Gigi
alongside Maurice Chevalier and Louis
Jordan. Caron also plays the title character, Lili Daurier, in tonight’s next film, Lili
(1953), for which she earned a Best Actress
nomination. After that is Oliver! (1968),

5/15/24

ACES ON BRIDGE

ing is “Semi-Finals: Then There Were Three,”
as the remaining singers serenade the audience with “You Oughta Know,” “Dancing in
the Street” and “I Lived” in an effort to reach
next week’s finale.
PBS, 7 p.m.
Ukrainian YouTuber Anton Ptushkin documents the work that Ukrainian citizens have
done to rescue and care for the pets and zoo
animals abandoned during the war. Before
the invasion in February 2022, Ukraine had
the second-highest population of pets per
capita in the world. In the face of violence,
pets and their owners became symbols of
resistance, heroes and frontline volunteers.
See how a national tragedy transformed into
a global story of incredible devotion and love
in the new episode “Saving the Animals of
Ukraine.”

©2024 Tribune Content Agency

©2024 Dist. By Andrews McMeel Syndication for UFS

MGM

based on the stage musical that itself was
an adaptation of Charles Dickens’ novel
Oliver Twist; Mark Lester plays that famous
orphan here. Next is Roberta (1935), with
Helen Westley as Aunt Minnie (aka Roberta) but led by Irene Dunne, Fred Astaire
and Ginger Rogers. Finally, Lucille Ball
plays Mame Dennis in Mame (1974), based
on the 1955 novel Auntie Mame and its
1966 Broadway musical adaptation.

LOOKING BACK

BIRTHDAYS

1928: the Walt Disney
cartoon character Mickey
Mouse appeared for the
first time in front of a public
audience in a test screening
of the short “Plane Crazy.”
(Mickey made his formal
screen debut with the
release of “Steamboat
Willie” six months later.)
1970: just after midnight,
Phillip Lafayette Gibbs and
James Earl Green, two Black
students at Jackson State
College in Mississippi, were
killed as police opened fire
during student protests.

Actor-singer Anna
Maria Alberghetti is 88.
Counterculture icon Wavy
Gravy is 88. Singer Lenny
Welch is 86. Actor-singer
Lainie Kazan is 82. Actor
Gunilla Hutton is 82.
Actor Chazz Palminteri
is 78. Former Health and
Human Services Secretary
Kathleen Sebelius is 76.
Singer-songwriter Brian
Eno is 76. Actor Nicholas
Hammond (Film: “The
Sound of Music”) is 74.
Baseball Hall of Famer
George Brett is 71.

A14 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

HOUSTON CHRONICLE | HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM

BIZARRO

ROYAL STARS

Today’s Birthday (May 15). You are charming, intelligent and young at heart. You’re
also creative and solution-oriented. This
year is the beginning of a new nine-year
cycle. Keep your eyes open for new opportunities and be ready to take action.
Moon Alert: Avoid shopping or making important decisions from 12:15 p.m. to 6 p.m.
EDT today (9:15 a.m. to 3 p.m. PDT). After
that, the Moon moves from Leo into Virgo.
Aries (March 21-April 19) HH Today there
is tension in the air, especially when dealing
with your kids. Arguments that are related
to sports might easily break out. You also
might have a difference of opinion with
someone. Tonight: Work.
Taurus (April 20-May 20) HH Today, issues
about home, family or real estate matters
are present. There are five planets in your
sign. This energy could create domestic
conflict. Tonight: Play!
Gemini (May 21-June 20) HH This is a tricky
day, because you might be at odds with
someone and have to ask yourself if it’s
really worth fighting about. Competition is
likely. Tread carefully. Tonight: Cocoon.
Cancer (June 21-July 22) HHH This is a popular time for you, especially with younger
people, as well as creative and artistic types.
You more involved than usual with your
friends. Tonight: Conversations.
Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) HHH You’re are
high-viz, because five planets are at the top
of your chart. Fortunately, it looks like you
make an excellent impression on others. Assume nothing, because you might overplay

MOTHER GOOSE AND GRIMM

HAGAR THE HORRIBLE

BLONDIE

your hand. Tonight: Check your belongings.
Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) HHH You might
feel tension today when the Moon is in Leo.
You could encounter problems with legal
and medical matters. Things will settle
down. Tonight: You win!
Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) HH Don’t push
your luck when dealing with shared property
and matters related to taxes, debt, inheritances or insurance issues, because things
are a bit dicey today. Tonight: Solitude.
Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) HH Today you
might have strong exchanges with partners
and close friends. Don’t be pushy. Be cooperative with authority figures. Easy does it.
Tonight: Socialize.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) HH Be patient with work colleagues today, because
others don’t want to hear complaints. They
might not even want to hear your suggestions. Tonight: Show respect.
Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) HHH You have
a strong desire to play, socialize, and express
your creative talents. Difficulties about the
right support for what you want to do might
arise. Therefore, go slowly. Tonight: Explore!
Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) HH Family
conversations and events at home are a
major consideration today. You also might
be doing something to improve where you
live. Tonight: Check your finances.
Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) HHH You’re
full of thoughts and ideas, which makes
you eager to communicate. Find the right
person who is willing to really listen. Tonight:
Cooperate.

King Features Syndicate

BREWSTER ROCKIT: SPACE GUY!

BEETLE BAILEY
GARFIELD

CURTIS
SHERMAN’S LAGOON

B.C.
Dear Abby: I have read
that you have a sweet tooth.
I do, too. That’s why I’m
interested in your recipe
booklets, particularly if
you have included dessert
recipes. Which ones do you
particularly love?
Loves It Sweet
In Annapolis, Md
Dear Loves: That’s a tough question. It’s
hard to choose just one recipe because I
do have a sweet tooth as well as “a bit” of
an addiction to chocolate, which is more
information than you asked for.
The following recipe is one I have
enjoyed many times and also have made
as gifts for friends. It yields 4 1/2 dozen
brownies (depending upon how large
one decides to portion them out), and
they freeze well. Warning: The first time
I tasted them, they triggered a binge.
After consuming my third brownie, I was
ashamed to go back to the dessert table,
so I sneaked to the kitchen and begged for
the recipe.
This recipe is included in my cookbooklet set, which, in addition to desserts,
includes many other delicious crowdpleasing recipes for entertaining. To order
it, send your name and address, plus
check or money order for $16 (U.S. funds)
to: Dear Abby Cookbooklet Set, P.O. Box
447, Mt. Morris, IL 61054-0447. Shipping
and handling are included in the price.
If you are a serious chocolate lover, this
recipe will make your toes curl. I hope you
will enjoy them as much as I have.

REGENCY BROWNIES
1 cup butter (2 sticks)
4 ounces bittersweet chocolate
2 cups sugar
4 eggs
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups chopped walnuts
1 teaspoon vanilla
FROSTING
1 cup heavy cream
8 ounces bittersweet chocolate, finely
chopped
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Line the bottom of an 18-by-12-by-2
(or 1)-inch baking pan with parchment
paper and spray generously with butterflavored cooking spray.
In the top of a double boiler, over
medium heat, melt butter and 4 ounces
chocolate. Reserve.
In a large bowl, beat sugar and eggs
until fluffy. Add flour and salt, mixing
well. Add chocolate mixture, blending
thoroughly. Stir in nuts and vanilla.
Pour into prepared baking pan. (Batter
should be about 1/2-inch thick.) Bake for
35 to 40 minutes, or until top is crisp and
toothpick inserted in center comes out
clean. Cool before pouring frosting over
the top. For the frosting: Bring cream to
a boil, stirring constantly. Place chopped
chocolate in a medium bowl; pour boiling
cream over the chocolate and stir to blend
well. Spread thin layer of warm frosting
over top of brownies in pan. When cool,
cut into 2-inch squares.
www.DearAbby.com
Andrews McMeel Syndication

Dear Heloise: I hate to
waste food, so I was wondering if it’s OK to reuse a
marinade that I’ve already
used before to marinate
chicken?
Frances D., Horsham,
Pennsylvania

Dear Heloise: My son is 3 years old and
thinks he’s Michelangelo. While I was
doing some ironing this afternoon, he got
out his crayons and drew a picture on the
newly painted walls in his bedroom. How
can I get the crayon marks off the wall
without removing the paint?
Anne H., Fresno, California

Frances, no, don’t reuse a
marinade. Raw meat and
chicken all carry their own types of bacteria, which are usually killed during the
cooking process. You could easily transfer
bacteria to other meat if you reuse marinades.
Heloise

Anne, baking soda comes to the rescue!
Try this: Sprinkle some baking soda on a
damp sponge and gently rub the crayon
marks in a circular motion to get rid of
them. This should remove his artwork.
Heloise
Heloise@heloise.com
King Features Syndicate

REX MORGAN, M.D.

PHANTOM

ARGYLE SWEATER

HOCUS FOCUS

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A15

HOUSTON CHRONICLE | HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM
Features Editor Melissa Aguilar: features@chron.com

Mustard oil gives cucumber pickle its tang
Cucumber dill pickles may be
widely popular here in the United States, but the overall popularity of pickles in India is
hard to match. From mango to
lemon and lime to pickled roselle leaves, these
condiments make
an appearance at
almost all meals.
Here is an instant cucumber
pickle, inspired
by the American
Anita
Jaisinghani dill pickle, that
can be eaten as a
H OUST ON
H ARV E ST
salad or in between sandwiches or burgers. It
is best eaten the day it is made,
when the cucumbers have a nice
crunch and have not leached out
too much liquid or turned soggy.
The use of mustard oil may be
unusual, but the sharp bite
makes for a very tangy pickle.
Anita Jaisinghani is the chef-owner
of Pondicheri restaurant in Houston. Her website is india1948.com.
Email: anita@pondicheri.com.

YOYO’S
From page A12
carts, they said. That meant
when they first opened at Post,
the revenue made was streaming into the new LLC’s bank account, which Kim did not have
access to.
Dang set it up this way to protect himself, he told the Chronicle, because he had put in money from his personal savings to
launch Yoyo’s at Post. Dang added that he was also concerned
with Kim’s business decisions.
“If it was his business, how
come he doesn’t have access to
his funds?” Dang said. “There
was a disconnect on how to operate the business.”
Kim reacted by closing the
shop to change the Post lease
agreement to his name. Subsequently, Dang stepped away
from the business. Each still believes the other owes him money.
Both have tapped lawyers to
help reach a resolution, especially so the standalone brickand-mortar Washington Avenue location of Yoyo’s that’s been
in the works for years can open.
“I don’t think Kevin’s a bad
person, but money makes peo-

into 1⁄4-inch slices into a large bowl
and keep refrigerated until the rest of
the ingredients are ready.
Prepare the minced ginger, serrano
pepper, dill and salt and add to the
cucumber.
In a small frying pan over high heat,
warm up the oil and as soon as it is
hot but not smoking, add the cumin
and fennel seeds.
The seeds will sizzle and pop, and
within seconds, take the pan off the
heat and pour the oil with the seeds
into the cucumber mix.
Squeeze the lemon juice and toss
gently. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Notes & variations

Carolina Ayala/Contributor

CUCUMBER PICKLE
• 1 large cucumber, cold
• 1 tablespoon peeled finely
minced ginger
• 1 small serrano pepper,
minced (optional)

ple evil,” Kim said. “He’s trying
to be in control.”

Washington Avenue Yoyo’s

Along with Dang, Peter Montes is an investor in Washington
Avenue Yoyo’s Hot Dog. His lawyer, Yonatan Gerber, said Montes had invested between
$60,000 and $80,000 in the business. Montes has owned several
businesses, including trucking
company PM Fleets.
Years ago, Montes asked Kim
to bring his hot dogs to a new location on Washington Avenue
and said that he would invest,
according to Kim. No formal paperwork was filed on a partnership agreement, according to
Gerber and Kim. When it came
time to sign a lease, Dang had
signed under a new LLC created
by Montes and himself, he said.
The Washington Avenue location has been a major point of
contention for the three parties.
Everyone involved told the
Chronicle they want to open it,
but a breakdown of ownership
needs to be agreed upon first.
Dang said they had all initially
agreed to be 33% owners, but
there is no formal record of the
agreement.
“I think ego came in the way
and then we all wanted to see a

• 1 tablespoon minced fresh
dill
• 3⁄4 teaspoon salt

• 2 tablespoons mustard oil
(or olive oil)

different direction with the
business,” Dang said. “Danny
(Kim) has no sense of urgency
because he’s never put in any effort or money whatsoever into
opening it.”
Kim alleges Dang and Montes
were working together to open
Washington Avenue behind his
back because the LLC excluded
him.
They both said Kim knew
they were working to open the
restaurant and the he had taken
a hands-off approach. Dang had
invested his time into the business, like getting permitting,
they said, while Montes has
been paying rent and utilities on
the Washington Avenue location for months.
Kim’s lawyer, Min Un Lee,
sent a cease-and-desist letter to
Dang, Montes and the son of
Montes, who had also invested
in the Washington Avenue
shop, on Feb. 19. The letter,
which was reviewed by the
Chronicle, requested that the
three parties stop using the
trademarked Yoyo’s Hot Dog
name for business and relinquish the Instagram account
and website access to Kim.
The letter said if they did not
comply, it could result in a
lengthy civil trial. At that point,

REVIEW
From page A12
broiled in their shells and kept
their juices.
The “toasted milk”? I was
amused to discover it took the
form of dehydrated, caramelized shards that added a
gentle dairy note, conjuring up
the cheese that often finishes
off a dish like this. I ate all
three of my oysters, wished I
had more, and rode home
thinking about them.
That’s the great gift of Baso
— it makes me think. About
technique. About ingredients.
About live fire in all its potential and limitations. And, most
of all, about ambition, a quality that has waned on the
Houston dining scene in recent years.
Sure, there are plenty of
restaurants currently that aim
high and do a great job. But
there are fewer that swing for
the fences in the way that
Oxheart, The Pass & Provisions and even Pax Americana
did back in the teens. With the
notable exception of March,
Houston’s top restaurants play
it safer these days, which I
attribute in part to the rigors
of the pandemic.
So it’s a thrill to encounter
daring dishes at Baso — even
the ones that make me go,
“Huh?” Take the scallop crudo
on my first visit, an unsettling
symphony in white that involved satin shellfish and
lardo, the cured Italian pork
fat. Oh, and white mulberry,
one of those touted “superfoods” often sold in dried or
powdered form. I found the
relentless softness of the textures off-putting, and I puzzled over the “tonnato” descriptor, which seemed to
promise a flavor contrast that
wasn’t there. The dish wasn’t
my thing, but it wasn’t boring.
My other two picks that
evening were plenty grabby.
Roasty potato hunks doused

Michael Wyke/Contributor

Jacques Varon, left, and Max Lappé lead the kitchen at Baso.

with a jumpy Mimolette
cheese sauce, made from the
long-aged French hard cheese
tinted with annatto, seemed
right in the Basque spirit. And
fire-roasted cabbage with
singed lamb bacon and apple
molasses hit just the right
balance of salty savor and
sweet.
That first meal was enhanced by interesting wineby-the-glass choices (I’m always grateful to see an Alsatian white on a list), along
with well-versed explanations
and advice from the day’s
bartender. The whole staff
here is uncommonly well informed about how dishes are
constructed — a good thing,
since Baso’s is one of those
menus that describes a dish
with a string of nouns separated by commas.
Without a detailed briefing,
you’d have no idea that the
shrimp on the half shell with
garlic and chili would be covered with powdered calabrian
chiles, or that they’d be
fetched heads-on from a freezer, so that they wouldn’t over-

grill on the fire. The treatment
works — powdery finish and
all — right down to the
crunchy head shell that I ended up scarfing like snack food.
Varon and Lappé like powders, of which I am generally
skeptical. (A tongue-furring
finish damps down flavors for
me, rather than enhancing
them.) So it was interesting to
encounter both the shrimp
and a mighty fire-grilled pork
chop — finished off with a
faintly floral layer of powdered
chamomile leaves and blossoms — that intrigued me
instead of putting me off.
In the case of the chop, a
forceful rubble of minced pork
jowl (“jowl condiment,” according to the menu) heightened the effect of the juicy,
smoke-singed meat. It’s fun to
see the whole snapper take
shape before you, too: the
filleted fish spread wide to
grill, then crisscrossed with a
pale green, anchovy-shot pilpil sauce. With its invigorating
side of skinny pickled guindilla peppers, it’s the most overtly Basque-style savory dish on

• 3⁄4 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon crushed fennel
seeds
• Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions: Slice the cucumber

Kim had little communication
with Montes and next to none
with Dang.
“(Kim) has every right to
bring this to court and demand
to regurgitate all the income
made out of using this name,”
Lee said at the time. “We’re trying to find an amicable way to
resolve this matter. Honestly, I
do not think they have any defense, in my own professional
opinion.”
Dang said he believes he
could sue Kim, too, for reasons
he did not want to disclose. He
said he wants to solve the issues
internally so they can get the
new shop operational.
Currently, their respective
lawyers are working through
how to split up ownership of the
Yoyo’s Washington Avenue location. Kim and Montes met at
the end of April, and Kim’s lawyer is drafting a partnership
agreement between the two.
Kim has said he can’t move forward with Dang in the picture,
so he has been left out of the
drafted partnership agreement.
Montes said he believes the
shop will open as soon as possible now that he and Kim have
talked through a partnership.
The details of that partnership
are still being worked out.

the menu, which nods to the
groundbreaking temple of
fire, Etxebarri. (There’s a
lilting Basque cheesecake, too,
and you should order it.)
One thing I prize about
Baso is the attention given to
vegetable-focused small
plates. They’re not just foils
for the large-format grills, but
thrilling rides for vegetarians.
Roasted beet with sherry,
pecan and cultured cream
was alive with texture and
woodsy flavor on a recent
evening; and fried morel
mushrooms stuffed with
herbed garbanzo mash, falafel-style, proved a trip with
their smoked tomato underpinning. Even a “lettuce”
course of unusual salad
greens and herbs shone under
its restrained gloss of white
soy and citrus. “What’s this?”
I asked Lappé, holding up a
slim spear that resembled
embryonic Belgian endive.
“Popcorn sprouts,” he told
me, pointing out the sweet,
nutty flavor out of all proportion to its size.
The chefs cure and age
their fish for crudo, too, so the
bluefin and o-toro crudos are
worth investigating; as is the
sumptuous venison tartare
deepened with sunflower seed
and smoked venison heart.
There’s dry-aged rib-eye, A5
wagyu and caviar service for
those so inclined, too. But
around the margins, the
menu keeps changing, which
should keep things fresh.
Most small plates range
from $12 to $32, with larger
entrées mostly in the $50
through $60s (or more, for
meats priced by the ounce).
Add wines from the skillful
Evan McCarley and intriguing
cocktails from the bar staff —
who clearly think deeply
about the food — and the
experience can get spendy.
You’ll go home with things
to think about — and maybe
even to argue about. In Houston 2024, that’s refreshing.

• Mustard oil can be obtained from
any Indian grocery store.
An alternate is to use olive oil, and
instead of cumin, pop black mustard
seeds.
This will give the zing of mustard to
the pickle.
• Toasted minced peanuts make a
nice addition to this pickle.
• A tablespoon of sugar or jaggery
will give the pickle a slightly sweet
finish.

Makes 3 cups
From Anita Jaisinghani

“We are ready to get this
Washington location off the
ground, and I just gotta get everybody on the same page,” Gerber said. “The question really
boils down to how much of it is
going to be owned by each partner.”
In early April, Dang was determined to resolve his issues
with Kim to be able to open the
Washington Avenue location.
Dang has not replied to more recent interview requests from the
Chronicle.

Instagram lockout

Kim is frustrated that he has
not had access to the Yoyo’s Instagram account, which has
nearly 45,000 followers, since
his falling out with Dang.
Dang has the logins for the Instagram and Yoyo’s website,
which he started under Kim’s
guidance. He is holding on to
those until things are resolved,
he said.
“I don’t want to relinquish
anything to Danny,” Dang said,
adding that he believes he is
owed money.
The account sits idle, the only
semblance of abnormality for
the business that is still serving
customers with its popular hot
dogs at Post Houston every day.

WHAT TO KNOW
Baso, 633 W. 19th,
979-349-9051
Food: Loosely
Basque-inspired, with a focus
on live-fire cooking and
immaculate Gulf Coast and
seasonal ingredients.
Vibe: Suave, dim cave in
muted tones that turn the
open kitchen and blazing
hearth into a glowing stage.
Prices: Small plates $12-$32;
large-format entrées $50 and
up; desserts $14
Hours: 5-10 p.m.
Wednesday-Saturday; 5-9
p.m. Sunday
Reservations: Via Resy.
Walk-ins as space permits.
Who’s there: Well-heeled,
casually dressed young
professionals and
globetrotters seasoned with
hospitality industry types.
What to order: Grilled oysters,
shrimp on the half shell, o-toro
crudo with Lady Edison ham
and sesame; venison tartare;
lettuce salad; beets with
pecan and cultured cream;
potatoes with mimolette
cheese sauce; grilled snapper;
pork chop; tarta de queso.
Service: Extremely gracious
and well-versed on the details
of this challenging menu. It’s a
walk-you-through-it service
mode, and that’s needed.
Vegetarian/vegan/glutenfree options: Not marked as
such on the menu. A handful
of interesting vegetarian items,
and the well-informed staff
should be able to point you to
gluten-free and vegan dishes.
Noise level: Ranges from
quiet to moderate to slightly
loud when at capacity.
Parking: Free lot alongside on
the west.
Ventilation: Decent, out of
necessity to accommodate
the hearth.
Outdoor dining: No.

A16 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

FAMILY CIRCUS

HOUSTON CHRONICLE | HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM

ZIGGY

ZITS

MUTTS

WALLACE THE BRAVE

PEARLS BEFORE SWINE

BABY BLUES

PEANUTS

LUANN

BREAKING CAT NEWS

HEART OF THE CITY

RHYMES WITH ORANGE

HI & LOIS

WUMO

BALDO

CRANKSHAFT

RED & ROVER

CANDORVILLE

SALLY FORTH

F MINUS

SPORTS

HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM • WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 • SECTION B

ASTR0S

Bregman shows first signs of a breakout
Slumping slugger gets payback for hard work
with 3 hits, including 2 HRs, and even a walk
By Matt Young
STA FF WRIT E R

Alex Bregman is known as a
dogged worker. He spends hours
in the cage, pausing only to look
at an iPad capturing every movement of his swing as he diagnoses any irregularities. He took
that work ethic to the extreme
after getting back from a six-day
road trip Sunday evening only to
leave home Monday morning for
more work on his mechanics as
he prepared for that night’s
game.
“That’s what you’ve got to do

when you’re not swinging it
good,” Bregman said. “You’ve
got to find a way to swing it
good.”
For at least one night, it
worked.
Bregman went 3-for-3 with
two home runs, a double and
four RBIs in the Astros’ 9-2 win
over the A’s on Monday night at
Minute Maid Park. With three
swings, Bregman elevated his
batting average 17 points to .218.
Getting the average to the highest it’s been since mid-April is
nice, but it’s the power that’s
most encouraging. In his first 37

UP NEXT
ASTROS VS. A’S
When/where: 7:10 p.m.
Wednesday at Minute Maid Park.
TV/radio: SCHN; 740 AM, 790
AM, 104.9 FM HD-2 (Spanish).

ASTROS
UPDATES
For our
latest game
coverage, scan
this code.

games, Bregman homered just
once. Now, he has three on the
season. It was his first multi-hoAstros continues on B6

David J. Phillip/Associated Press

Seeing Alex Bregman enjoy a big game in Monday night’s
victory over the A’s eased a lot of minds in the Astros’ dugout.

ROCKETS

Thinking big

Michael Reaves/Getty Images

Even among a team that was on its way to a second consecutive NCAA championship, Connecticut center Donovan Clingan stood out from the pack.

UConn’s 7-2 Clingan has the size and developing skills
to be a possible fit with ށengün and worthy of No. 3 pick
By Jonathan Feigen
STA FF WRIT E R

CHICAGO — Not long after
the NBA trended toward big
men who were not that big,
Donovan Clingan noticed
things turning the other direction.
It is not difficult to see. The
last four MVP awards have

gone to oversized centers Joel
Embiid and Nikola Jokic. Rudy
Gobert won his fourth Defensive Player of the Year award
this season while playing with
fellow 7-footer Karl-Anthony
Towns.
It is even more natural for a
player who can look them in
the eye to notice not just the
rise of size, but the need for

players to defend them.
With that and the Rockets’
jump from the ninth to the
third pick of next month’s
NBA draft in mind, Clingan
might become a player Houston would consider with its
fourth top-four pick in as
many years.
The rise of traditional centers gives Clingan confidence

he would be a valuable player
for teams choosing early in the
draft, including the Rockets,
who could pair him with 6-11
center Alperen ށengün.
“If he’s working inside, I’ll
be able to step out and shoot
the 3 and be able to space the
floor,” said Clingan, who
helped Connecticut win two
national championships. “I

could be very impactful at the
defensive end, having team defense, ball-screen defense. I
can see myself with him, for
sure.”
The Rockets are not likely to
be looking for a center, but general manager Rafael Stone
made it clear Sunday that he
will choose whomever he conRockets continues on B4

With money to be made, Kyle Field
isn’t just for football games anymore
COLLEGE STATION — Dave
Elmendorf, in
between tackling
Texas Longhorns and Baylor Bears on Kyle
Field’s turf in the
late 1960s and
early 1970s,
Brent
Zwerneman wouldn’t have
minded throwON T HE
ing down a blanAG G I E S
ket on the same
glorified ground
for, say, a Willie Nelson concert
around that same time.
“Kyle Field is a great venue

for all kinds of things, not just
athletics,” said Elmendorf, a
Texas A&M sports icon who
excelled in both football and
baseball for the Aggies. “It
makes so much sense to use it
for other things.”
ESPN announced Tuesday
that its College GameDay crew
will be on hand for A&M’s season opener against Notre Dame
on Aug. 31, officially making the
fanfare surrounding Desmond
Howard and Co. the third-biggest ado to hit Kyle Field this
summer.
The “other things” Elmendorf

referenced are a Mexico-Brazil
soccer match the night of June 8
and a George Strait concert a
week later on June 15 in A&M’s
football confines.
Elmendorf, A&M’s longtime
radio football analyst, never
bought into the ideal palatial
Kyle Field, which had a nearly
half-billion dollar rebuild about
a decade ago, should merely be
used for football. The soccer
match and concert will mark the
first times A&M’s football home
of more than a century will be
used for something
A&M continues on B3

Ken Murray/Getty Images

A&M has determined that filling Kyle Field only for seven football games a year is not getting the best use out of the facility.

B2 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

HOUSTON CHRONICLE | HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM

NFL
TEXANS ANALYSIS

Clash with Cowboys is best on ’24 schedule
By Greg Rajan

expected dregs of the AFC South
ranked so high? Because you
know this is a game where the
Texans will wear their new
“H-Town Blue” alternate uniforms, particularly since the
team had to compromise with
the NFL and the Titans in order
to work the hue into their design.

STAFF WRIT E R

The NFL’s offseason circus
brings one of its ballyhooed
events Wednesday night with
the schedule release.
Never mind that it’s been
known for months which opponents teams like the Texans will
be facing. The NFL has made
revealing the dates a made-forTV event in recent years. The
fact the league has a TV network
that needs programming is a
happy coincidence, right?
As we wait for the official
dates, perceived prime-time
snubs (expect the Texans to get
more than the zero prime-time
dates they got last spring) and
breathless hype, let’s have some
fun with this year’s schedule.
Since we already know the
opponents and when a game is
played shouldn’t impact fans’
interest (we think), here’s a ranking of the Texans’ 2024 games by
must-see status.

17. At Patriots

Oh, how the mighty have
fallen. Bill Belichick is gone. Tom
Brady is long gone. And New
England is bad once again (as
those of us alive in the early ’90s
remember). The league-wide
schadenfreude is likely through
the roof among teams the Patriots pushed around through their
two-decade dynasty. But with a
new head coach (Jerod Mayo),
rookie quarterback (Drake
Maye) and a roster filled with
holes, rewatching the Tom Brady roast on Netflix is probably a
more entertaining three hours
than any Patriots game this
season.

5. Vs. Colts

Indianapolis came into NRG
Stadium and skunked the Texans last year, with Richardson
playing an impressive game
before being hurt. Given how
razor-thin the difference between the teams was last year,
defending their home turf
against their top divisional challenger is a must for the Texans.

4. Vs. Lions

Michael Owens/Getty Images

The Texans’ road game against the Cowboys will pit quarterback C.J. Stroud against his good
friend and defensive superstar Micah Parsons.

3. Vs. Ravens

16. At Vikings

These teams have little history
between them, other than the
Vikings are one of two teams the
Texans have never beaten (along
with the Eagles). The teams
haven’t played since 2020, when
Minnesota won in what ended
up being Bill O’Brien’s last game
as Texans coach. It was just four
years ago but seems like an eternity given everything that’s happened with the Texans since
then. Minnesota is in a state of
transition, bidding goodbye to
veteran QB Kirk Cousins and
replacing him with J.J. McCarthy.

15. At Jaguars

There are few sure things
when it comes to the Texans …
except winning in Jacksonville.
Houston has lost there just once
since 2013, in the 2017 season
finale. Otherwise, the Texans
have annexed Duval County. Bill
O’Brien went 10-2 against the
Jaguars. Successors Romeo
Crennel, David Culley, Lovie
Smith and DeMeco Ryans all got
their first win against the Jaguars. The Jaguars have a tendency to self-destruct at home
against the Texans.

14. Vs. Jaguars

Not to pick on the Jaguars, but
they’re not really the hottest
ticket when it comes to the Texans’ home slate. The Jaguars
have actually won more games
against the Texans in Houston

A possible Super Bowl preview? Between two of the
league’s most snakebit cities? It’s
not crazy talk, folks. The Lions
lost the NFC championship
game in painful fashion to the
49ers (with some questionable
coaching decisions from Texas
A&M product Dan Campbell),
and they figure to be on the
short list of NFC title contenders. The Texans will get their
first glimpse of Aidan Hutchinson, the game-wrecking pass
rusher whose father Steve
played at Cypress Creek High
School. The Texans would have
faced the younger Hutchinson
twice a year, but the Jaguars
inexplicably passed on the Michigan star with the first overall
pick in 2022.

Lauren Leigh Bacho/Getty Images

The Texans will visit Patrick Mahomes and the
two-time defending champion Chiefs.

(three) than Jacksonville (one)
since 2013, but their annual visit
isn’t really a needle-mover, save
for last November, when first
place in the AFC South was on
the line.

13. At Titans

We’ll bet everything you own
that the Titans will wear their
Houston Oilers throwbacks for
this game to somehow psyche
out the Texans (which didn’t
work last year when Tennessee
lost to Case Keenum starting at
QB). They’ll also trot out some
franchise “legends” who never
played in Nashville. The Titans
were the AFC South’s only sub.500 team last year, and that
likely won’t change in 2024.

12. Vs. Bears

The Texans have won four of
six games against the Bears, and
the series has largely been uneventful save for a Sunday Night
Football slugfest Houston won in
2012 at Chicago when both teams
had 7-1 records. But this Bears
visit provides some intrigue
given the offseason infusion of
talent with first-overall draftee
Caleb Williams at QB, fellow
first-rounder Rome Odunze at
wideout and veteran receiver
Keenan Allen, acquired via trade
from the Chargers.

Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson is 4-0
against the Texans in his career.

11. At Jets

The visit to the Meadowlands
last season was maybe the ugliest game of the Texans’ season
since they lost in blowout fashion and C.J. Stroud suffered a
concussion. Aaron Rodgers will
return after missing all but four
snaps last season, providing a
nice old-gunslinger-againstyoung-buck matchup with
Stroud.

10. At Colts

The Texans clinched a playoff
spot (and eventually the AFC
South title) thanks to a thrilling
last-minute win in prime time at
Indianapolis last season. The
Colts made the curious decision
to put their season in Gardner
Minshew’s hands instead of
Jonathan Taylor’s on fourth
down and paid the price. Minshew is gone, but Taylor is back
and so is QB Anthony Richardson after missing most of his
rookie season. This figures to be
the Texans’ toughest divisional
road game.

9. Vs. Bills

Buffalo returns to NRG Stadium for the first time since the
2019 AFC wild-card game that
saw the Texans rally from a
16-point deficit in the second half
to win in overtime. Oh, there’s

also new Texans receiver Stefon
Diggs facing his former team
after an offseason trade. Plenty
of ink should be spilled on that
angle, along with a matchup of
AFC playoff contenders and star
QBs in Josh Allen and Stroud.

8. Vs. Dolphins

It really depends when this
game will be scheduled. If it’s
before December, the Texans
might be in for it since that’s
when the Mike McDaniel and
Tua Tagovailoa-led Dolphins do
their best work. But Miami has
faded in December and January
the past two seasons, with a
combined 4-10 record.

7. At Packers

This is all about location,
location, location. Per the NFL
scheduling formula, the Texans
only play at Lambeau Field every
eight years (unless there’s an
exception for the 17th game). J.J.
Watt, as Wisconsin as cheese
curds, never played a regularseason game at Lambeau Field in
his 12-season career. So playing a
game at one of the NFL’s cathedrals is a bucket-list game for
Texans fans. A Stroud vs. Jordan
Love matchup isn’t bad, either.

6. Vs. Titans

Why is a game against the

Lamar Jackson is 4-0 against
the Texans in his career, including 2-0 last year with an
impressive playoff performance
against Houston in the divisional
round. The Ravens, last year’s
AFC top seed, provided a measuring stick for where the Texans want to get to.

2. At Chiefs

The noted philosopher Ric
Flair has said “To be the man,
you’ve gotta beat the man.” Well,
there’s no better way for the
Texans to establish their Super
Bowl contender bona fides by
going into Arrowhead Stadium
and knocking off Patrick Mahomes and the two-time defending Super Bowl champion
Chiefs. It would be stunning if
this wasn’t a prime-time game
given the star power between
Mahomes and Stroud. Heck, it
arguably should’ve been the
Week 1 Thursday night kickoff
game. As Mr. Flair would also
say, wooooo!

1. At Cowboys

The Battle for Texas might
never be bigger. If NFL schedule-makers are on their A-game,
this will be slotted for Thanksgiving and a national audience.
C.J. Stroud and his good buddy,
Cowboys linebacker Micah Parsons, have been joined at the hip
this offseason. Let’s be honest,
the Texans’ brand will never
match the Cowboys’, but they
sure can make the case for instate superiority with a win at
Jerry World.

NOTEBOOK

Mahomes, Chiefs draw Bengals in Week 2 headliner
W I R E R EP ORT S

NEW YORK — First, Lamar
Jackson. Then, Joe Burrow.
The two-time defending
Super Bowl champion Chiefs
face a daunting test in opening
their season after CBS unveiled
Kansas City’s Week 2 opponent
as being the Cincinnati Bengals
on Tuesday. The league also
announced Aaron Rodgers and
the New York Jets will open
their season on ESPN’s Monday
Night Football on Sept. 9 in
traveling to play the NFC champion San Francisco 49ers.
Prime Video later announced
it’s Thursday Night Football
schedule will open in Week 2
with an AFC East showdown
featuring the Miami Dolphins
hosting the Buffalo Bills on
Sept. 12.

The Bengals, with Burrow as
their quarterback again following a season-ending wrist injury, will travel to play at Kansas City in a late-afternoon
outing on Sept. 15. The matchup
follows the league’s announcement on Monday of the Chiefs
opening the NFL schedule hosting the Jackson-led Baltimore
Ravens on Sept. 5 in a rematch
of last season’s AFC title game.
The meeting against the Bengals brings together two teams
who met in consecutive AFC
championships, with Cincinnati
winning in 2021 and the Chiefs
winning the following season.
The NFL is releasing highlighted portions of its schedule
in advance of the league revealing its full slate of games on
Wednesday night.
The Jets are opening on Mon-

day Night Football for a second
consecutive season following a
22-16 overtime win over the
Buffalo Bills last year, in what
became Rodgers’ celebrated but
injury-abbreviated New York
debut. Rodgers attempted one
pass, which went incomplete,
during a first series which ended with him tearing his left
Achilles tendon. He was sidelined for the season.
Rodgers is on track to return
to practice without limitations
once the Jets begin voluntary
spring sessions next week.
This season marks Prime’s
third since taking over the
Thursday night broadcast, and
kicks off with a rematch of last
season’s finale in which Josh
Allen and the Bills defeated the
Dolphins 21-14 to clinch Buffalo
its fourth consecutive AFC East

title. It also relegated Miami to
the AFC’s sixth playoff seed.
Buffalo has won four consecutive meetings and 11 of 12
against Miami, including a
wild-card playoff victory two
years ago.

past two seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs, where he combined for 63 catches for 1,002
yards and three touchdowns.

Bills add wideout
Valdes-Scantling

The Jaguars and the city of
Jacksonville have agreed to a
$1.4 billion “stadium of the future” that would keep the franchise in one of the NFL’s smallest markets for another 30
years.
The proposal calls for each
side to contribute $625 million
to the $1.25 billion project. Jacksonville, which won’t levy any
new taxes to pay for the rebuild,
would chip in another $150
million to get EverBank Stadium ready for construction in
2026.

The Buffalo Bills have signed
yet another receiver, Marquez
Valdes-Scantling, to reshape a
position group that lost two
starters, including Stefon Diggs.
The Bills announced the
signing of the sixth-year player
to a one-year contract on Tuesday, a day after Valdes-Scantling visited the team for a workout.
He is a two-time Super Bowl
champion after spending the

Sports Editor: reid.laymance@houstonchronicle.com • sptletters@houstonchronicle.com

Jaguars, city make
$1.4B stadium deal

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 B3

HOUSTON CHRONICLE | HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM

PGA CHAMPIONSHIP

New dad Scheffler chasing another major
By Doug Ferguson
A SS O CIAT E D PRE SS

LOUISVILLE, Ky. —
Scottie Scheffler has never
spent much time reflecting
on anything he has done,
especially with something
grand — another major
championship — on the immediate horizon.
But for that moment in
Dallas last week, when wife
Meredith came home with
their first baby, it was hard
not to think about a special
time in his life.
“I married my high
school sweetheart and I always wanted to play professional golf, and now I’m
here,” Scheffler said. “I was
sitting there with a newborn in my arms and the
green jacket in the closet. It
was a pretty special time.”
Scheffler has wanted to
play professional golf for so
long that as a youngster, he
wore long pants in the hot
Texas sun because that’s
what the pros did. Now he
has 10 titles on the PGA
Tour and only a month ago
added another Masters
green jacket.
Their son, Bennett, was
born last Wednesday.
But what makes the 27year-old Texan tick is how
much he hates to lose no
matter how much he wins.
And it didn’t take long for
Scheffler to think about the
PGA Championship and a
chance to further stamp
such a dominant stretch.
“The competitiveness in
me doesn’t let me reflect too
much,” he said. “And I was
trying to do my best to get
ready to play this week.”
There is much at stake.
Since the modern Grand
Slam came into the golf vernacular in 1960, only four
players have captured the
first two majors of the year
— Arnold Palmer in 1960,
Jack Nicklaus in 1972, Tiger
Woods in 2002 and Jordan

Spieth in 2015.
“The amount of greens
he hits, he just wears you
out that way,” said Woods,
who knows plenty about
wearing down an entire
field. “And then he has an
amazing pair of hands
around the greens. If he
putts awful, then he finishes in top 10. If he putts decent, he wins. He putts
great, he runs away.
“So, he’s just that good a
ball-striker and that good
an all-around player.”
Nothing comes easily, no
matter how easy Scheffler
can make it look.
Valhalla Golf Club is a
new experience, and it
doesn’t help a supreme ballstriker like Scheffler that the
course already is soft. And
that was before a spell of
heavy rain closed the course
for a few hours Tuesday.
The harder the test, the
greater the separation. Soft
conditions shrink the margins, and this might be as
good a time as any for someone to stop this remarkable
train.
This could be ideal for
Brooks Koepka, the defending PGA champion, who
looked to be dialed into his
irons when he won LIV
Golf Singapore, or perhaps
even golf’s basher, Bryson
DeChambeau. They play on
LIV and have not been subjected as much to Scheffler’s
dominance.
Scheffler also is coming
off a substantial in-season
break, at least by his standards. Except for the impending birth of his son, he
would have played two
weeks ago in Dallas. He has
been away from competition since winning the RBC
Heritage on April 22 for his
fourth victory in his last five
tournaments.
But he hasn’t been away
from golf entirely.
“Definitely rested going
into this week, for sure,”

THURSDAY’S FIRST-ROUND TEE TIMES

Michael Reaves/Getty Images

Scottie Scheffler has won four of the last five events
he’s entered heading into the PGA Championship.

Scheffler said. “I don’t really
feel like any rust has accumulated. I was able to practice and play a lot at home.
I’m able to do stuff at home
to simulate tournament
golf, especially on the
greens, competing and
gambling with my buddies.
I don’t really want to lose to
them, either.”
He hasn’t been losing to
hardly anyone lately. Stephan Jaeger is the only player to finish ahead of Scheffler in a tournament since
Feb. 18 at the Genesis Invitational. Scheffler tied for 10th
that week.
More than one player has
jokingly suggested a mandatory paternity leave. Max
Homa, among those who
tried to chase down Scheffler at Augusta National,
finds it inspiring.
“Sometimes it’s pretty
cool to see somebody kind
of push the limit on what
you thought was possible,”
Homa said. “I did not think
you could hit a golf ball this
well this long. I did not

A&M

Michael Block
Jeff Kellen
Ryan Fox
Zac Oakley
Adam Hadwin
Byeong Hun An
Adam Schenk
John Daly
Peter Malnati
Benn Polland
Jeremy Wells
Jared Jones
Kyle Mendoza
David Puig
Tracy Phillips
Talor Gooch
Jason Day
Min Woo Lee
Gary Woodland
Collin Morikawa
Rickie Fowler
Wyndham Clark
Patrick Cantlay
Patrick Reed
Brad Marek
Braden Shattuck
Doug Ghim
Larkin Gross
Lucas Glover
Ludvig Aberg
Tiger Woods
Rory McIlroy
Cameron Smith
Brooks Koepka
Tony Finau
Akshay Bhatia
Sepp Straka
Andy Svoboda
Preston Cole
Rich Beem
Josh Bevell
Andrew Putnam
Si Woo Kim
Y.E. Yang
Jake Knapp
Thomas Detry
Austin Eckroat
Sungjae Im
Thorbjorn Olesen
John Somers
Emiliano Grillo
Vincent Norrman

Luke Donald
Alex Smalley
Josh Speight
Adam Svensson
Martin Kaymer
Alexander Bjork
Corey Conners
Lee Hodges
Kurt Kitayama
Zac Blair
Sami Valimaki
Taylor Moore
Andy Ogletree
Thriston Lawrence
Denny McCarthy
Cameron Davis
Shane Lowry
Chris Kirk
Tom Kim
Phil Mickelson
Jon Rahm
Brian Harman
Camilo Villegas
Sam Burns
Mark Hubbard
S.H. Kim
Tyler Collet
Lucas Herbert
Stephan Jaeger
Xander Schauffele
Adam Scott
Dustin Johnson
Hideki Matsuyama
Max Homa
Tyrrell Hatton
Tommy Fleetwood
Takumi Kanaya
Ben Griffin
Tim Widing
Sebastian Soderberg
Aaron Rai
Jesse Mueller
Tom Hoge
Matthieu Pavon
Jason Dufner
Jimmy Walker
Luke List
Christiaan Bezuidenhout
Brendon Todd
Brice Garnett
Evan Bowser
Wyatt Worthington II

He practices. He plays.
He competes.
Scheffler did watch golf
over the weekend, a rarity
for him because he’s usually
playing. The TV was on
when Rory McIlroy delivered a back-nine masterpiece to win the Wells Fargo
Championship.
McIlroy

Shaun Micheel
Ben Kohles
Matt Wallace
Ryo Hisatsune
Taylor Pendrith
Eric Cole
Nick Dunlap
Robert MacIntyre
Victor Perez
Ryan Van Valzen
K.H. Lee
Patrick Rodgers
Erik van Rooyen
Matt Dobyns
Keita Nakajima
Harris English
Nicolai Hojgaard
Billy Horschel
Joaquin Niemann
Matt Fitzpatrick
Cameron Young
Scottie Scheffler
Will Zalatoris
Padraig Harrington
Maverick McNealy
C.T. Pan
Adrian Meronk
Grayson Murray
Russell Henley
Justin Thomas
Keegan Bradley
Justin Rose
Viktor Hovland
Jordan Spieth
Sahith Theegala
Bryson DeChambeau
Nick Taylor
Dean Burmester
Adrian Otaegui
Kazuma Kobori
Jordan Smith
Charley Hoffman
Alex Noren
J.T. Poston
Francesco Molinari
Rasmus Hojgaard
Mackenzie Hughes
Beau Hossler
Keith Mitchell
Jesper Svensson
Alejandro Tosti
Chris Gotterup

won the PGA Championship in 2014, the last time it
was at Valhalla.
“I got to see a little bit of
the golf and saw some really
nice golf being played,” he
said. “Part of me wanted to
be out there competing with
these guys. It’s nice to be
back out this week.”

COLLEGE FOOTBALL

Aggies to host GameDay
before opener vs. Irish

From page B1
other than Aggies football.
“When you look at
football stadiums — and
I’m not just talking about
college stadiums but professional stadiums —
they’ve been used for
other things for years and
years,” said Elmendorf, a
standout safety for the
NFL’s Los Angeles Rams
in the 1970s. “When I
played in L.A., the Coliseum was used for all kinds
of things, including the
Olympics (in 1932 and
1984). It makes a ton of
sense to get use out of the
stadium.”
Kyle Field seats more
than 100,000 fans, and
Gabriel Gabor, a spokesman for international
soccer and Major League
Soccer, said Mexico is
bent on breaking the
United States record for a
match involving the Mexican national team (90,526
in 2010 at the Rose Bowl
in Pasadena, Calif.). As of
early this week, the soccer match had more than
44,000 tickets sold, and
the Strait concert had
more than 100,000 tickets
sold, according to A&M
officials.
The non-football Kyle
events came about in
large part because A&M,
like many other colleges
across the country, is
getting more creative in
fundraising in an era of
belt-tightening and coach
buyouts, the latter of
which A&M is known for
because of owing former
football coach Jimbo Fisher a record $77 million
after his firing in November. Fisher’s replacement,
Mike Elko from Duke,
said he’s in favor of flavor
at Kyle Field.
“It’s great for our university to get that kind of
exposure,” Elko said.
“There are a lot of times
during the year where
Kyle Field is there and
available. I’ve talked (with

know that was possible. We
saw it with Tiger, but I
wasn’t around then, and Tiger feels like a mythological
creature, especially when
you look back on some of
those seasons he had from
2000 to 2008 or 2009 or
whatever it was. I mean just
like absurd golf.
“So to get to see that up
close and know that’s a real
possibility, I think it’s super
motivating.”
Scheffler has not lost perspective on what’s important during this remarkable
run. The daughter of his
caddie, Ted Scott, is graduating high school this weekend. Scheffler said they
talked about it at the start of
the year and he insisted
Scott go home for the celebration. Scheffler will use a
friend on the bag for the
third round.
He also doesn’t get too
wrapped up in the hype,
just like he ignored so much
criticism only a few months
ago when his putting was
under severe scrutiny.

No. 1
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No. 10
6:20 a.m.
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By Brent Zwerneman
STA F F W R I T ER

Brent Zwerneman/Staff

A&M athletic director Trev Alberts, second from
right, is happy to host a Mexico-Brazil soccer game
as well as a George Strait concert at Kyle Field.

A&M) about maybe the
timing of it a little bit in
the future, but to get our
foot in the door and do
some of these things to
show some of the big acts
and big performers that
we can host these kinds
of events at a really high
level will be something
that’s really good for Texas A&M.”
June is a big recruiting
month for A&M and
other college football
programs, and the addition of the soccer match
and concert will cause
some adjusting of schedules and perhaps somewhat limit recruits’ accessibility to Kyle Field. But
the Aggies’ coaches plan
to work around it as
much as possible (as if
they had any choice).
A whole lot of A&M
employees and contracted
workers will exhale collectively on June 16, following the rush of two
big-time events in what’s
a typically slower time for
the university. In addition, the soccer match
might fall on the same
day as a baseball super
regional of the NCAA
Tournament, considering
the Aggies are currently
ranked fifth nationally.
The soccer match is
scheduled to start at 7:30
p.m. under the Kyle Field
lights, so a baseball game
might start much earlier
in the day in trying to

alleviate some of the congestion around the area.
New A&M athletic
director Trev Alberts
planned neither the soccer match nor the concert
— that fell under the prior
regime of new Ohio State
athletic director Ross
Bjork — but Alberts did
embrace both upon his
arrival from Nebraska in
March.
“It’s a shifting mindset,” Alberts said of fans
and everyone else becoming accustomed to Kyle
Field hosting more than
football. “Across all of
college athletics, especially in college football, most
of the time you’ve got an
incredible asset sitting
there empty, other than
seven Saturdays a fall. All
of us in athletics are trying to think about how do
we activate these spaces?
… You have to shift your
mindset away from just
doing athletic department
events in a really iconic
space.
“Let’s be honest: This is
Kyle Field, and you have
to be a little bit careful on
what you want to do. And
then of course you have to
make the numbers work,
because there is a lot of
work … this is a Herculean task this summer. …
But I don’t think (moving
forward) this is going to
be outside the norm, not
just here but in the rest of
college athletics.”

The Mike Elko era at
Texas A&M will crank up
with plenty of pomp to go
with circumstance.
ESPN’s College GameDay will be at Kyle Field
for the Aggies’ Aug. 31
opener against Notre
Dame, and Elko’s first
game as A&M coach. ABC
will then air the game
with a 6:30 p.m. kickoff
from Kyle.
Elko was Notre Dame’s
defensive coordinator under then-Fighting Irish
coach Brian Kelly before
serving as the Aggies’ defensive coordinator for
four seasons (2018-21). Elko was then Duke’s head
coach for two season before returning to A&M to
replace Jimbo Fisher.
This will mark A&M’s
10th appearance as part of
a College GameDay showing, including seventh as a
host but the first time it’s
hosted since 2018. Recently retired Alabama coach
Nick Saban is scheduled
to be a part of the presentation from 8-11 a.m. that
morning.
The A&M-Notre Dame
news came as ESPN announced its major matchups for Week 0 and Week 1
on Tuesday as part of its
presentation to advertisers in New York.
ABC’s other Saturday
Week 1 games include
Clemson facing Georgia in
Atlanta at 11 a.m. and Florida hosting Miami at 2:30
p.m.
The Sunday, Sept. 1,
game between Southern
California and LSU also
will be on ABC with a 6:30
p.m. kickoff.
Texas and Oklahoma,
which join the SEC this
coming season, will have
their openers on ESPN.

Karen Warren/Staff photographer

Mike Elko’s first game as A&M coach, against Notre
Dame, will take place in prime time Aug. 31.

The Sooners host Temple
on Friday, Aug. 30, at 6
p.m. and the Longhorns
face Colorado State on
Aug. 31 at 2:30 p.m.
Texas’ trip the next
week to play at defending
national champion Michigan on Sept. 6 already had
been announced as an 11
a.m. kickoff on Fox’s “Big
Noon Saturday.”
ESPN’s Aug. 31 games
include Alabama hosting
Western Kentucky at 6:30
p.m. in Kellen DeBoer’s
Crimson Tide debut.
ESPN will also carry
North Dakota State at Colorado on Aug. 29, TCU at
Stanford on Aug. 30 and
Boston College at Florida
State on Sept. 2.
CBS, which will be in its
first full season carrying
Big Ten games at 2:30
p.m., will have Southern
California’s first conference game on Sept. 21
when it visits Michigan.
The network also has
Notre Dame at Purdue on
Sept. 14 as well as the conference title game on Dec.
7 at 7 p.m.
The Pac-12 Conference
also announced on Tuesday that Oregon State and

Washington State’s home
games will be on the CW
Network or Fox. Most will
be on the CW, including
the Beavers hosting the
Cougars on Nov. 23 at 5:30
p.m..
Fox or FS1 will carry
Texas Tech at Washington
State on Sept. 7 and Oregon at Oregon State on
Sept. 14.
Oregon
State
and
Washington State remain
committed to rebuilding
the Pac-12, but it will play
as a two-team league for
2024 and possibly 2025.
The CW Network also
has a package of ACC
games.
NBC and Fox announced some of their
matchups on Monday.
NBC’s first two “Big
Ten
Saturday
night”
games are set with Michigan hosting Fresno State
on Aug. 31 and Colorado at
Nebraska on Sept. 6.
In addition to TexasMichigan, Fox also has finalized the Sept. 13 matchup between Alabama and
Wisconsin as part of its
“Big Noon Saturday.”
The Associated Press
contributed to this report.

B4 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

HOUSTON CHRONICLE | HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM

NBA
THUNDER 100, MAVERICKS 96 MONDAY’S GAME

Dallas’ stars quiet as Oklahoma City rallies
By Schuyler Dixon
AS S OC IAT E D PRE SS

DALLAS — Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was making his normal share of
shots through three quarters for Oklahoma City.
Most of his teammates
weren’t, until it mattered
most.
Gilgeous-Alexander
scored 34 points and the
Thunder overcame a Mavericks franchise playoff-record 13 blocks, rallying for a
100-96 victory Monday
night to even their Western
Conference semifinal series
at 2-2.
Chet Holmgren and Lu
Dort hit clutch 3-pointers
late, and Jalen Williams
drove for a dunk and a 94-91
lead with 1:29 remaining as
Dallas players and coaches
screamed for a doubledribble call.
Crew chief Zack Zarba
said in a pool report that
video confirmed officials
were correct not calling the
double-dribble, saying Williams never had control of
the ball before grabbing it
with two hands and starting his dribble.
The teams split a pair on
each other’s home court.
Game 5 is Wednesday night
in Oklahoma City.
“We just stuck to it,” Gilgeous-Alexander said. “We
just plugged away, took it
possession by possession.
And eventually the game
turned for us.”
The Mavericks’ last
chance to tie came with 10.1

seconds left when, trailing
by two, Luka Doncic had
two free throws. But the
Dallas superstar missed the
first, part of a dismal 12for-23 effort by the Mavs
from the line. Oklahoma
City was 23 for 24.
“We’ve just got to work
on our free throws,” Doncic
said. “We shot 52%. That’s
unacceptable.”
Backed by one of their
best defensive efforts of the
season, the Mavs led by 14
early in the second half. But
their offense disappeared
from there, and the Thunder slowly came back.
Oklahoma City went in
front for the first time since
early in the game — and for
good — on Holmgren’s 3 for
an 89-86 lead with 3:24 remaining.
P.J. Washington Jr. led
Dallas in scoring again with
21 points, while Doncic had
18 points, 12 rebounds and
10 assists. Kyrie Irving had
his second single-digit
scoring game of the series
with nine points.
Dort’s clutch 3 came on a
3-of-10 shooting night from
deep as he finished with 17
points. Holmgren had 18
points and nine rebounds.
Dereck Lively II and
Derrick Jones Jr. had four
blocks apiece for Dallas,
each getting one in the final
seconds of the first half to
continue the defensive tone
that had already been set.
That defensive struggle
turned downright ugly in
the third quarter, with the
Thunder outscoring Dallas

PLAYOFF RESULTS/
SCHEDULE
Western Conference
Second round
No. 1 Oklahoma City 2, No. 5 Dallas 2
Game 1: Oklahoma City 117, Dallas 95
Game 2: Dallas 119, Oklahoma City 110
Game 3: Dallas 105, Oklahoma City 101
Game 4: Oklahoma City 100, Dallas 96
Game 5: at Oklahoma City, 8:30 p.m. Wednesday (TNT)
Game 6: at Dallas, 7:30 p.m. Saturday (ESPN)
Game 7*: at Oklahoma City, 7:30 p.m. Monday (TNT)

No. 3 Minnesota 2, No. 2 Denver 2
Game 1: Minnesota 106, Denver 99
Game 2: Minnesota 106, Denver 80
Game 3: Denver 117, Minnesota 90
Game 4: Denver 115, Minnesota 107
Game 5: at Denver, late
Game 6: at Minnesota, 7:30 p.m. Thursday (ESPN)
Game 7*: at Denver, TBA Sunday

Eastern Conference
Second round
No. 1 Boston 3, No. 4 Cleveland 1
Game 1: Boston 120, Cleveland 95
Game 2: Cavaliers 118, Boston 94
Game 3: Boston 106, Cleveland 93
Game 4: Boston 109, Cleveland 102
Game 5: at Boston, 6 p.m. Wednesday (TNT)
Game 6*: at Cleveland, 7:30 p.m. Friday (ESPN)
Game 7*: at Boston, TBA Sunday

No. 2 New York 2, No. 6 Indiana 2
Game 1: New York 121, Indiana 117
Game 2: New York 130, Indiana 121
Game 3: Indiana 111, New York 106
Game 4: Indiana 121, New York 89
Game 5: at New York, late
Game 6: at Indiana, TBA Friday
Game 7*: at New York, 2:30 p.m. Sunday (ABC)
*If necessary

Tim Heitman/Getty Images

Mavericks guards Kyrie Irving, left, and Luka Doncic combined to score just 27
points in Monday night’s Game 4 loss to the Thunder.

22-15 to cut their deficit to
four — the closest they had
been since the middle of the
first quarter. Oklahoma
City shot 33% in the third to
25% for the Mavs.
Dallas wasn’t much better in the fourth, shooting
42% and going just 1 of 5
from long range while the
Thunder finally started
seeing shots go in after

shooting 34% through
three quarters.
Gilgeous-Alexander,
who along with Holmgren
did most of the shot-making while their teammates
struggled, got the Thunder
even on a jumper with four
minutes to go.
Washington, making his
first postseason appearance as a trade-deadline ac-

CELTICS 109, CAVALIERS 102 MONDAY’S GAME

quisition that was a defense-first move, had his
third consecutive game
with at least 20 points and
added 12 rebounds.
Doncic had his fifth career playoff triple-double
but again struggled with
his shooting as he deals
with a sprained right knee
and a sore left ankle.
The five-time All-Star

was 6 of 20 overall and 2 of 9
from long range, while the
eight-time All-Star Irving
hasn’t put an offensive
stamp on any of the first
four games.
A pair that averaged just
shy of 60 points per game in
the regular season is at 37 in
the series. Irving isn’t even
in the second-leading scorer. That’s Washington.
“I think there’s a focus on
us,” Doncic said. “When we
both drive it, they collapse
the paint, almost five guys.
So I think that’s been difficult for us. We’ve just got to
find open teammates.”

NOTEBOOK

Tatum, Boston take 3-1 series lead James’ son grateful
By Tom Withers

is uncertain.
It was nothing new for a
Cleveland team that dealt
with injuries all season,
but it was a big ask for the
Cavs to try and survive
without Mitchell, their
All-Star guard who has
carried the offensive load
throughout the postseason, or ex-Longhorn Allen, their leading rebounder.
Still, the Cavs gave the
top-seeded Celtics, who
have shown a tendency to
relax at the wrong time, all
they could handle.
“They laid it all out
there,” Cleveland coach
J.B. Bickerstaff said of his

team. “They gave us everything that they had. They
competed at a high level.
They played the game
properly. I’m proud of the
guys, the way they went
out and scrapped and
competed and gave ourselves a chance.”
Tatum had his second
straight strong performance, adding 11 rebounds
and five assists. Jrue Holiday had 16 points for Boston, which improved to 4-0
away from home in the
postseason.
“There’s no better feeling than winning a playoff
game on the road,” Tatum
said. “Tough environment

and the crowd was great.
Now, it’s time to go back to
Boston and play well in
front of our fans and give
them something to cheer
for.”
Darius Garland scored
30 and Evan Mobley and
Caris LeVert 19 apiece for
the Cavs, who stayed connected with the Celtics and
only trailed by 10 going into the fourth.
Boston went up 15 on a
jumper by Brown, but
Cleveland responded with
a 10-2 run as Garland and
Dean Wade made 3-pointers.
The Cavs were still
within 102-97 when Max
Strus missed a 3-pointer
that would have put immense pressure on the
Celtics, but Brown buried
a 3 — after colliding with
official Tyler Ford — with
1:08 left to give Boston
some breathing room.
The Cavs felt the discrepancy at the free-throw
line — Boston attempted
24 free throws to Cleveland’s seven was a major
element.
“That’s
ridiculous,”
Garland said. “It’s tough to
get just seven free throws.
I know how many times I
get hit and how many
times my teammates get
hit. It’s tough.”

best rim protector and was
a strong one-on-one defender last season.
“I feel like you see Gobert and all these traditional
centers — Joel Embiid, Jokic — just the way they dominate so many different aspects of the game,” he said.
“That’s just something I’m
going to try to do. All the little things that go into defense: protecting the rim,
finishing around the rim,
being able to step out to
shoot the 3, passing, which
I love to do, space the floor.
“It’s nice to see all those
big guys — 7-foot, 7-foot-1,
7-foot-2 — succeeding at a
high level and having such
a big impact. It’s exciting.”
Clingan might well have
helped himself in the combine testing. In addition to
seeming trimmer, he was
measured with a 9-foot-7
standing reach and a 7-7

wingspan.
That was not a surprise,
but he also did well in the
shooting drills. He made 19
of 30 3-pointers in the
shooting-off-the-dribble
drill, leading the big men.
He went a solid 14-of-25 in
spot-up shooting, second
behind Alex Sarr, another
7-footer who could be
among the first players taken. Clingan’s 3-point shooting slipped in the “Star
Drill,” which has players
move to different positions.
He made 10 of 25 shots in
that one.
As expected, the agility
tests did not go as well.
Clingan had a maximum
vertical jump of 29 inches, a
no-step vertical of 25.5
inches. He had among the
worst times in the Pro Lane
Drill, three-quarter court
sprint and shuttle run.
Those measures, howev-

er, might not be considered
as important or telling as
what the scouts could see
as Clingan was helping
UConn win back-to-back
titles. Those experiences,
Clingan said, could indicate what he and Huskies
teammates Stephon Castle
and Alex Caraban can
bring on the next level. Castle is also considered a
top-10 pick.
“I feel like … we’ve
shown we can win at the
highest level on the high
stages,” Clingan said. “We
went 12-0 in the (NCAA)
Tournament the last two
years. We won every game
by 13 or more. We’re just
trying to show teams we’re
winners and give everything we’ve got to help our
organization win and help
everyone succeed on our
team.”
As a sophomore this

ASS O CIAT E D PRE SS

CLEVELAND — Even
when it’s supposed to be
somewhat easy, the Boston
Celtics have a weird way of
making things hard.
On Monday night, they
nearly stumbled against
an overmatched Cleveland
team.
Jayson Tatum scored 33
points with LeBron James
watching from a courtside
seat and the Celtics beat
the severely short-handed
Cavaliers 109-102 in Game
4 to take a commanding 3-1
lead in their Eastern Conference semifinal series.
Jaylen Brown added 27
for the Celtics, who can
close out Cleveland with a
win in Game 5 on Wednesday night at home.
“It took us a little while
to get going, and stop ball
watching and play some
basketball,” Brown said.
Game 6, if necessary,
would be back at Rocket
Mortgage FieldHouse on
Friday.
The Cavs got pushed to
the brink of elimination
with two top players in
street clothes on the
bench, as Donovan Mitchell (calf) and Jarrett Allen
(ribs) sat out with injuries.
Their status going forward

ROCKETS
From page B1
siders the best player available, as he did in the first
three drafts of his team’s rebuild.
Houston would seem to
have little playing time
available for a rookie center. ށengün and Stephen
Adams will be returning
from injuries, and 6-11 forward Jabari Smith Jr., the
third pick of the 2022 draft,
was effective when playing
in the middle after ށengün
was hurt.
But Clingan, 20, is a considerably bigger player
than ށengün or Smith — he
measured 7-2 barefoot and
282 pounds at the draft
combine — potentially offering different defensive
strengths. Clingan was arguably college basketball’s

Nick Cammett/Tribune News Service

Jayson Tatum, center, led the Celtics with 33 points
and 11 rebounds in Boston’s win over Cleveland.

pro goal is in reach
WI RE RE P O RT S

CHICAGO — Bronny
James still has some lingering fears. He also has
big dreams.
Nearly a year after
going into cardiac arrest
during a workout, he is
close to achieving his goal
of playing in the NBA just
like his famous father.
“It’s just a great thing to
happen to me, in terms of
just being grateful for
everything,” James said at
the NBA draft combine. “I
put in the work and stuff
like that to get back, so I
feel like I’ve earned the
opportunity. I’m extremely
grateful for everything
that’s been given to me.”
James played in a scrimmage on Tuesday after
participating in drills the
previous day, when he had
his vertical leap measured
at 40 1⁄2 inches and his
height at 6-foot-1 1⁄2 despite
being listed by Southern
California as 6-4.
The son of NBA career
scoring leader LeBron
James, Bronny James was
one of the nation’s top
prospects when he decided to stay near home and
committed to Southern
past season, Clingan averaged 13 points, 7.4 rebounds, 1.5 assists and 2.5
blocks per game. Though
he missed five games with a
tendon injury in his right
foot, Clingan showed improvement, to the point he
considered a presumed
weakness, his range shooting, a potential strength.
Asked what teams have
indicated they value, Clingan said: “Just my feel for
the game, how I can be for
their defense. Just working
on my 3 ball and being able
to step out and shoot the 3,
trying to get in the ballscreen game, being as impactful, and just trying to
be as active as I can be on
the defensive end.
“A lot of people said I did
well shooting 3 ball yesterday. I know I can shoot better. I was definitely not
happy with the way I per-

Cal last May. But things
took an unexpected turn
last summer.
James went into cardiac
arrestbecause of a congenital heart defect during
a basketball workout in
late July and needed surgery.
“It was a tough time, for
sure,” he said. “All this
work that I put in, it just
really built me into someone that would never give
up. It paid off because I
put in the work after that
situation, and I’m back to
where I want to be.”

Gobert fined for
gesturing at refs
Timberwolves center
Rudy Gobert was fined
$75,000 by the NBA on
Tuesday for another “inappropriate and unprofessional gesture” that suggested a lack of integrity
with the league and its
game officials.
Gobert glanced down
and rubbed both thumbs
together with his fingers
as he walked up the court
in frustration over a foul
call in the fourth quarter
of Minnesota’s loss to
Denver on Sunday.
formed. I have more time to
improve myself, more opportunities to show that I
can shoot the ball at a really
high level.”
Clingan had no prediction about whether his
draft stock might rise as
high as the Rockets’ No. 3
pick. But he seemed confident it will continue to
climb.
“I try not to look at my
draft (status),” Clingan
said. “At the end of the day,
June 26 is the day that the
real draft happens. I’m just
trying to put in all the work
I can to put myself in the
best position possible, to
end up at the right organization, just try to be the
highest pick possible. The
goal is to go to a place I’m
going to fit in and I’m going
to be able to have an impact. I just want to help an
organization win.”

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 B5

HOUSTON CHRONICLE | HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM

WNBA

NHL PLAYOFFS

Clark makes her
much-heralded
debut with Fever

Stars take control as Avs lose
playoff standout to suspension

By Doug Feinberg
AS S OC IAT E D PRE SS

UNCASVILLE, Conn.
— The Caitlin Clark era in
the WNBA has officially
begun, although it got off
to a slow start.
Clark went scoreless in
the first quarter of the Indiana
Fever’s
game
against the Connecticut
Sun on Tuesday night.
She missed her first four
shots before finally getting on the board midway
through the second period.
The NCAA’s all-time
Division I scoring leader
stole the ball around the
foul line and drove the
length of the court before
laying the ball in. Clark
had said before the game
that she thought her first
basket would come on a
layup since it was a “highpercentage” shot.
She
probably
just
didn’t think it would take
nearly 15 minutes for it to
happen.
Clark later added two
free throws and hit a 3pointer with 29.9 seconds
left in the first half to finish the opening 20 minutes with seven points,
hitting two of her seven
shot attempts. The Fever
trailed 49-39 at the half.
Before her first basket,
Clark struggled and got
into early foul trouble.
Her first shot was a drive
to the basket that
bounced hard off the
glass and into Aliyah Boston’s hands for a putback.
Clark missed a runner in
the lane, and then her 3
from the left wing just
rimmed out. She did have
an assist on one basket
and threw a nifty behindthe-back pass to teammate Boston, but last season’s Rookie of the Year
was called for a traveling
violation.
Meanwhile, Clark was
called for two fouls on the
defensive end. The second one drew loud boos
from the sellout crowd.
The crowd gave the No. 1
pick in the draft a loud
ovation when she was announced in the pregame
introduction.
Before the game, Clark
admitted she was eager
for her WNBA debut. It
was one of four games on
the league's opening
night to tip-off the
WNBA’s 28th season.
New York, which was
runner-up in the WNBA
Finals, visited Washington to start the evening.
She sat around most of
the day at the hotel and
had to wait to get on the
court when her team arrived nearly 2:30 hours
before tipoff.
“I just want to get out
there and play,” she said.
“I got plenty of time to sit
and think about it. Still
this is exciting. This is
fun. ... There’s just a different buzz in the air.”
Even before playing a
WNBA game, Clark has

GRINER OUT WITH
FRACTURED TOE
Houston’s Brittney
Griner suffered a fractured
toe on her left foot and is
out indefinitely, the
Phoenix Mercury
announced.
Griner, 33, will be “out
and re-evaluated in the
coming weeks,” the team
said. The Mercury opened
their WNBA season
Tuesday. The injury could
also impact Griner’s spot
on the U.S. national team
for the Olympics.
The team is scheduled
to play the WNBA All-Stars
on July 21 before departing
for Paris. The first game for
the U.S. in the Olympics is
July 29 against Japan.
Griner, who spent nearly
nine months in a Russian
prison in 2022 after being
arrested for possession of
vaping cartridges
containing cannabis oil,
played 31 games last
season for the Mercury. She
won gold medals with the
United States in Rio (2016)
and Tokyo (2021) and says
playing for Team USA has
always been special.
Reid Laymance

left her mark in the pros.
The league’s draft had record viewership, and her
No. 22 Indiana Fever jerseys have been flying off
the shelves. There were
hundreds of fans walking
around the arena in Clark
jerseys and t-shirts.
Three WNBA teams
have already moved their
games to bigger arenas to
keep up with the demand
for tickets to watch her
play. Her debut in Connecticut was sold out —
the first sellout for the
Sun in a season opener
since they played their inaugural game at Mohegan
Sun Arena in 2003 after
moving from Orlando.
There’s also a huge media
turnout with nearly fourtimes the number of credentials issued for this
game than a normal Sun
contest.
Clark and her teammates took the court in a
morning shootaround at
the empty arena. She said
afterward
that
she
planned to watch more
film during the day in her
hotel room.
“I don’t feel nervous or
really anxious,” she said.
“I think I’m just excited
more than anything and
just embracing it.”
Clark said she’s not going to get too caught up on
her play in her first game.
“If something isn’t perfect, my life’s not going to
end," she said. “If, you
know, we lose the game
tonight, my life’s not going to end. I’m just going
to learn from it and come
back on Thursday and try
to help us win.”
Clark's home debut
will be Thursday, when
the Fever host the New
York Liberty.

Elsa/Getty Images

Caitlin Clark made her regular-season debut Tuesday
in front of a soldout crowd in Uncasville, Conn.

history to reach doubledigit postseason goals at
age 20 or younger, according to league research.
He was presented a
candy-bar cake with a
candle after the game.
“It’s been a crazy, crazy
couple of years,” Johnston
said. “I’m just really
thankful and just so happy to have met some
amazing people on the
way and just have a
chance to be with the
Stars.”

W I R E R EP O RT S

DENVER — Wyatt
Johnston scored twice on
the eve of his 21st birthday
as the Dallas Stars
pushed Colorado to the
brink of elimination Monday night with a 5-1 win in
Game 4 that came hours
after Avalanche standout
Valeri Nichushkin was
suspended for at least six
months.
Johnston had shorthanded and power-play
goals for the Stars, who
grabbed a 3-1 lead in the
second-round, best-ofseven series. Dallas can
close it out at home in
Game 5 on Wednesday.
“He (Johnston) came
out possessed tonight,”
Stars coach Pete DeBoer
said. “He was all over the
rink. Just fantastic, fantastic young hockey player
that’s going to be a cornerstone.”
Miro Heiskanen and
Evgenii Dadonov also
scored, while Sam Steel
added a late empty-net
goal.
About an hour before
the game, the National
Hockey League and National Hockey League
Players’ Association announced that Nichushkin
was suspended for at least
six months without pay.
He was placed in stage 3
of the league’s player
assistance program. It’s
the second time this season Nichushkin has been
in the program .Stage 3
means Nichushkin violated terms of the program, which provides
help for everything from
mental health needs to
substance abuse.
“We’re not going to use
that as an excuse. We
can’t and we won’t,” said
Avalanche coach Jared
Bednar, who found out
after the morning skate
and told his players when

HURRICANES 4, RANGERS 1

Andy Cross/Getty Images

Wyatt Johnston, left, had two goals for the Stars as
they took a 3-1 lead on the Avalanche.

RESULTS/SCHEDULE
Western Conference

Eastern Conference

Second round

Second round

Dallas 3, Colorado 1

N.Y. Rangers 3, Carolina 2

Game 1: Colorado 4, Dallas 3 (OT)
Game 2: Dallas 5, Colorado 3
Game 3: Dallas 4, Colorado 1
Game 4: Dallas 5, Colorado 1
Game 5: at Dallas, 7 p.m. Wednesday (ESPN)
Game 6*: at Colorado, TBA Friday
Game 7*: at Dallas, TBA Sunday

Game 1: N.Y. Rangers 4, Carolina 3
Game 2: N.Y. Rangers 4, Carolina 3 (2OT)
Game 3: N.Y. Rangers 3, Carolina 2 (OT)
Game 4: Carolina 4, N.Y. Rangers 3
Game 5: Carolina 4, N.Y. Rangers 1
Game 6: at Carolina, 6 p.m. Thursday (TNT)
Game 7*: at N.Y. Rangers, TBA Saturday

Vancouver 2, Edmonton 1

Florida 3, Boston 1

Game 1: Vancouver 5, Edmonton 4
Game 2: Edmonton 4, Vancouver 3 (OT)
Game 3: Vancouver 4, Edmonton 3
Game 4: at Edmonton, late
Game 5: at Vancouver, 9 p.m. Thursday (TNT)
Game 6*: at Edmonton, TBA Saturday
Game 7*: at Vancouver, TBA Monday

Game 1: Boston 5, Florida 1
Game 2: Florida 6, Boston 1
Game 3: Florida 6, Boston 2
Game 4: Florida 3, Boston 2
Game 5: at Florida, late
Game 6*: at Boston, TBA Friday
Game 7*: at Florida, TBA Sunday
*If necessary

they returned to the rink
before the game. “You
have to be mentally
tough.”
A Colorado lineup
missing Nichushkin, the
team’s leading goal scorer
(nine) in this playoff run,
struggled early to get on
track and was outshot by
a 16-2 margin in the first
period. Casey Mittelstadt
scored Colorado’s lone
goal in the second.
“We looked frozen in
the first period,” Bednar
said. “We weren’t moving,
we’re not skating. Looked
like we were exhausted,
and we should be the
rested team.”
The Avalanche also
were without standout

defenseman Devon
Toews, who was a late
scratch due to an illness.
Colorado’s defense
couldn’t prevent Johnston
and the Stars from building a 3-0 lead in the second period. Dallas has yet
to trail in regulation during the series.
“We’ve played a lot of
good hockey and put
ourselves in some good
positions,” Stars forward
Joe Pavelski said. “It’s just
a commitment to doing it
the right way. That’s number one for us.”
Johnston, who turned
21 on Tuesday, scored his
10th and 11th career playoff
goals. He became the
eighth player in NHL

Trailing by a goal with
20 minutes to go and their
season on the line, Carolina wasn’t discouraged.
The Hurricanes knew
they could turn the game
around.
Jordan Staal and Evgeny Kuznetsov scored
3:06 apart early in the
third period, and the
Hurricanes got four goals
in the period for a win
over New York in Game 5
of the second-round series on Monday night,
staving off elimination for
the second straight game.
“There was no panic,
we understood what the
situation was,” Hurricanes coach Rod Brind’Amoiur said. “It wasn’t like
we were dead. ... You
were one shot away, and
that’s the way they approached it.”
Jacob Trouba scored a
short-handed goal for
New York, which has lost
two straight after taking a
3-0 series lead.
“One game at a time,”
Rangers forward Chris
Kreider said. “If you had
told me it would be 3-2
against the second-best
team in the league with
an opportunity to close it
out, that’s a pretty good
spot to be in. We’ll just go
down there and play
better, be more detailed.
Find a way to win.”

PREAKNESS

Pimlico set for ‘bittersweet’ spotlight
By Stephen Whyno
A SSO C I AT ED P R E SS

BALTIMORE — Preakness days in recent years
have featured water and
plumbing miscues. A large
section of the grandstand at
Pimlico Race Course has
been rendered unusable
because it's condemned,
and much of the rest of the
storied but decaying track
is a relic to the sport of
kings’ heyday many yesteryears ago.
The home of the second
jewel of horse racing’s Triple Crown had become
something of an eyesore,
far from the glitzy palace of
Churchill Downs for the
Kentucky Derby.
The 149th rendition of
the Preakness on Saturday
will be the last before a
massive
reconstruction
project begins at Pimlico,
and with that brings a mix
of nostalgia over the vaunted venue but also hope for
the future because fixing up
the old place has been long
overdue.
Tom Rooney, president
and CEO of the National
Thoroughbred Racing Association and a longtime
staple of the industry in
Maryland, knows all too
well the contrasting feelings as someone who attends the Preakness annually sitting in the clubhouse
at Pimlico, which first
opened in 1870 and hasn’t
gotten significant upgrades
since the mid-20th century.
“You want to feel nostalgic, but then you look up at
the ceiling and you worry
that it’s going to fall in on
you,” Rooney said. “It’s
kind of a bittersweet year,
but I think the people are
going to be very proud of
the final result in a couple
years.”
After more than a decade

Julia Nikhinson/Associated Press

This year’s Preakness Stakes will be the last at
Pimlico before it closes for major reconstruction.

149TH PREAKNESS STAKES
Post time: 5:58 p.m. Saturday.
TV: NBC.
Post/Horse

Trainer

Jockey

1. Mugatu

Odds
20-1

Jeff Engler

Joe Bravo

2. Uncle Heavy

20-1

Robert Reid Jr.

Irad Ortiz Jr.

3. Catching Freedom

6-1

Brad Cox

Flavien Prat

4. Muth

8-5

Bob Baffert

Juan Hernandez

5. Mystik Dan

5-2

Kenneth McPeek

Brian Hernandez Jr.

6. Seize The Grey

15-1

D. Wayne Lukas

Jaime Torres

7. Just Steel

15-1

D. Wayne Lukas

Joel Rosario

8. Tuscan Gold

8-1

Chad Brown

Tyler Gaffalione

9. Imagination

6-1

Bob Baffert

Frankie Dettori

of uncertainty and questions about what would become of the Preakness and
racing in the state, Gov. Wes
Moore last week signed into law a bill for a $400 million rebuild.
The complicated process
involves Maryland taking
over control of the track,
building a training center
and eventually closing Laurel Park to shift full-time
racing to Pimlico in the
northwest quadrant of Baltimore.
For those who tune in
once a year when the
sport’s spotlight shines on it
for the Preakness, it means
an abrupt shift, with the
race being moved to Laurel

Park down the interstate
halfway to Washington in
2026 before a planned return to Pimlico in 2027,
much like the Belmont
Stakes’ two-year hiatus at
Saratoga Race Course in
upstate New York while the
Long Island track is completely revamped. The
hope is to restore some of
the Preakness glory that
faded with Pimlico’s deteriorating conditions.
“It’s going to create a
much better home for the
Preakness,” said Greg
Cross, chairman of the
Maryland Thoroughbred
Racetrack Operating Authority that’s overseeing the
project. “It’s a statement

that we’re not going to lightly let 150 years of history
just go away.”
Some of the biggest
names in the sport don’t
want to see everything go
away, namely the stakes
barn that houses the Preakness horses in close proximity a few minutes’ walk
from the track, something
that does not happen at other major races.
“That barn is so special,
and there’s been so many
amazing horses that have
walked through that barn,”
said
trainer
Kenny
McPeek, who is bringing
Kentucky Derby winner
Mystik Dan to the Preakness, looking for his second
victory in the race. “The
grandstand,
obviously,
needs to be revamped, and
that’s wonderful. I think we
could take this sport into
another era with some
changes there and leave the
Preakness barn alone.”
Alan Foreman, another
member of the authority,
understands those concerns and said, “Change is
difficult, but the status quo
for racing could not guarantee survival of the industry.”
Without casino revenue
like other states and with
myriad issues over who
would pay for changes, just
getting to this point months
from demolition is a wireto-wire win.
“There is nervous anticipation among the racing
community because until
the wrecking ball hits Pimlico, they see designs and
they see the actual timeline
but I think many are still
skeptical about whether
this gets done or not,” Foreman said. “Part of it’s been
trying to convince people
that this is different than
previous iterations and that
this is going to happen.”

B6 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

HOUSTON CHRONICLE | HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM

MLB
ASTROS

Morales thrilled with broadcast
By Matt Kawahara
STA FF WRIT E R

Julia Morales was ready for the
moment. In the fourth inning of
the Astros’ game Monday night
against the A’s, Oakland starter
Ross Stripling hung a slider that
Alex Bregman crushed into the
Crawford Boxes, inviting a home
run call.
Morales, from the TV booth at
Minute Maid Park, delivered it
with emphasis. “Bregman drives
this one … and you can say bye to
that baseball, y’all!” Morales said,
rising to her feet, spiking her pen
and high-fiving color commentator Geoff Blum as Bregman circled the bases.
“I was a little stressed about the
home run calls. Especially in this
ballpark, I know the energy level.
I’m so familiar with this team and
how big home runs are,” Morales
said Tuesday. “I thought about
what I was going to say a couple of
different ways. … That was like the
number one question I got is what
your home run call is going to be.
So much pressure behind that.
And I got something out.”
Trading her field reporter role
for one night on Space City Home
Network, Morales called a 9-2 win
for the Astros on Monday in the
first play-by-play assignment of
her career, one that carried an historic element.
Tuesday, Morales said goodnaturedly she was trying to avoid
revisiting clips of the broadcast.
But there was no denying its positive reception.
“Yesterday, I was overwhelmed
in a different way, with the nerves
and just excitement and kind of
the unknown,” Morales said. “Today, the overwhelmed is just of the
feedback and how many people
were happy to see it.”
The idea for Morales and playby-play announcer Todd Kalas to
trade roles for one game began as
a fun twist for the TV team. With
the A’s in town, it took on another
element. Oakland hired Jenny
Cavnar as its primary play-byplay announcer this season, making Cavnar the first woman to
hold that role for an MLB team.
Monday marked MLB’s first game
with female play-by-play announcers for both teams.
Recent years have produced
more such firsts. The first MLB
game to feature an all-female
broadcast crew occurred in July
2021 and streamed live on YouTube. In March 2023, an all-female broadcast crew called a
spring training game between the

By Noah Trister
AS S O C I ATE D P RE S S

Karen Warren/Staff photographer

Julia Morales handled play-by-play duties for Monday’s game. With Jenny Cavnar in a similar
role on the A’s broadcast, it was the first MLB game with two female play-by-play announcers.

Mariners and Rockies; both Morales and Cavnar were part of that
crew, Cavnar as play-by-play announcer and Morales as a field reporter.
For Cavnar to be in the adjoining booth Monday added to the
moment, Morales said. The two
are good friends, and Morales said
Cavnar “took me under her wing
when I first started this gig.” Before the game, they posed for a
photo holding their young daughters, Morales’ Valerie and Cavnar’s Emmery.
“I really wanted to not really
push (the historic element) as the
messaging for all of this going into
it,” Morales said. “As it was happening, I’m obviously very aware
of how big that moment is. And
even seeing the messages of the
moms who are like, ‘My little girl
was listening and perked up when
they heard your voice, and it just
sounded different to the women
that are in our house.’ That’s
where it is real and it is important
for me to stop and acknowledge it.
“I just hated the idea of making
it a story, because the story is the
Houston Astros and getting a big
win over the Oakland A’s. But if in
doing that yesterday we inspired
some little girls or just made people fall in love with the game of
baseball, really, that’s what it’s all
about.”
Kalas, who occupied Morales’

A’S CALL UP PEARLAND
GRADUATE BASSO
Pearland has added another
major leaguer to its current
collection.
Left-hander Brady Basso, a
2016 Pearland graduate, was
called up Tuesday by the Oakland
Athletics during their three-game
series agianst the Astros at
Minute Maid Park.
The 26-year-old Basso, who’ll
have a chance to make his big
league debut close to home, joins
Red Sox catcher Connor Wong,
his former Pearland teammate, as
Oilers in the big leagues.
“What an exciting day for that
young man and his family,” former
Pearland coach Anthony Scalise
said.
Basso, a 16th-round pick in
2019 out of Oklahoma State is 1-2
with a 5.53 ERA in seven minor
league starts this season.
Ted Dunnam

regular spot in the camera well by
the Astros’ dugout Monday, chimed in with in-game observations
and joked about the mosquito
presence and difficulty of taking
photos from the angle. In the
ninth inning, though, Kalas delivered a poignant thought for Morales, Cavnar and their daughters
on the broadcast.

“When those girls are in middle
school or high school, this is going
to be commonplace, right? Everybody is going to see women doing
broadcasts for both sides,” Kalas
said. “But the fact that they can
say, ‘Our moms did the very first
telecast with two women doing
play-by-play on TV,’ love it for
you.”
Morales filled in for Blum as
color commentator on two games
last season and planned to take on
radio play-by-play for some
games in spring training 2020 before the pandemic brought things
to a halt. There were some nerves
Monday, Morales said, as well as
appreciation for others who have
held the role.
“I just have so much respect for
the people who have done it before
me,” Morales said. “Jenny, years
and years of trying to get her reps
and trying to get that job and finding her way into the booth. Melanie Newman (of the Orioles).
What did (Yankees analyst) Suzyn Waldman have to go through
in order to get her seat in the
booth?
“I have so much respect for
that, so I didn’t want this to ever
come off as mockery or shtick. I
wanted it to be real and authentic
and me calling a game that I have a
lot of passion for as well. So at the
end of the day, I hope that’s how it
came off.”
Monday’s game

Astros 9, A’s 2

David J. Phillip/Associated Press

Alex Bregman, watching the second of his two homers Monday, conjured up Tony Gwynn’s old lesson
about getting the knob of the bat past the ball as something that has been missing from his swing.

ASTROS
From page B1
mer game since August 2022.
Although the power surge is
what will make the highlights,
Bregman was most satisfied
with his first at-bat of the game,
during which he never swung
the bat, taking four straight balls
from Oakland starter Ross
Stripling.
“The four takes were perfect
how I wanted them to be,” Bregman said. “I didn’t even swing,
but the four takes, just how the
load looked and everything like
that, I was encouraged by it.”
Everyone else was further encouraged when Bregman turned
that selective eye into the ability
to spot a fourth-inning hanging

Some top
prospects
struggling
this year

slider that he launched into the
Crawford Boxes. He did the
same with another slider in the
seventh, and when he came up
again in the eighth with the bases loaded, he launched a ball that
bounced in front of the Astros
bullpen in deep right field and
drove in two more runs.
Seeing Bregman laughing and
celebrating with his teammates
in the dugout was a sight for Joe
Espada’s sore eyes.
“I’m really happy for him,”
Espada said. “He’s worked really
hard. He never stops working.”
It’s what Espada hoped would
happen when he moved Bregman down to sixth in the lineup
last week, the lowest he’d hit
during a regular-season game
since 2021. Bregman said the demotion in the order didn’t affect

him positively or negatively —
“Wherever they want me to hit,
I’m gonna hit” — and Espada
said the change may not even
stick, especially since Bregman
now has hit safely in five straight
games.
“Well, he’s not going to stay
down there very long once we
start seeing the Bregman we all
know,” Espada said.
Even with the lineup tinkering, the real change started with
the piling on of work that Bregman says eventually will lend
truth to one of his favorite sayings: “The cream always rises to
the top.”
Monday’s spark all started
with the morning workout session. Bregman said he “worked
through a lot of things,” which
included going back to the basic

Oakland
AB R H BI BB SO Avg.
Toro 2b
4 1 0 0
1
3 .291
Bleday cf
4 0 2 1
0
1 .255
Rooker dh
3 1 2 0
1
0 .303
Langeliers c
4 0 0 0
0
1 .206
Soderstrom 1b
4 0 2 1
0
1 .375
S.Brown lf
4 0 1 0
0
1 .181
Schuemann ss
4 0 2 0
0
2 .226
Butler rf
4 0 0 0
0
2 .170
Harris 3b
2 0 0 0
1
0 .147
1-Ruiz pr
0 0 0 0
0
0 .229
Nevin 3b
1 0 0 0
0
1 .250
Totals
34 2 9 2
3 12
Houston
AB R H BI BB SO Avg.
Altuve 2b
4 1
1 1
0
1 .315
Tucker rf
4 0
2 1
0
0 .277
Alvarez lf
3 0
2 0
1
0 .264
2-Cabbage pr-lf
0 1
0 0
0
0 .200
Peña ss
4 2
1 0
0
1 .338
Kessinger ss
0 0
0 0
0
0 .000
Singleton 1b
3 1
0 0
1
0 .224
Bregman 3b
3 3
3 4
1
0 .218
Diaz dh
4 0
0 0
0
0 .270
Caratini c
4 0
1 2
0
1 .245
Meyers cf
3 1
0 0
1
0 .256
Totals
32 9 10 8
4
3
Oakland
000
110
000—2
9 3
Houston
011
100
24x—9
10 1
1-ran for Harris in the 7th. 2-ran for Alvarez in the 8th. E—Soderstrom
(1), Langeliers (3), Schuemann (2), Bregman (2). LOB—Oakland 8,
Houston 4. 2B—Rooker (7), Bleday (11), Soderstrom (2), Tucker (8),
Bregman (7), Caratini (4). HR—Bregman (2), off Stripling; Bregman
(3), off Spence. RBIs—Soderstrom (3), Bleday (18), Tucker (29), Bregman 4 (17), Altuve (14), Caratini 2 (10). SB—Toro (2), S.Brown (2).
CS—Bleday (1), Ruiz (4). Runners left in scoring position—Oakland 6
(Butler, Toro, S.Brown 2, Rooker, Schuemann); Houston 2 (Altuve,
Peña). RISP—Oakland 2 for10; Houston 3 for 7. GIDP—Diaz, Singleton,
Alvarez. DP—Oakland 3 (Toro, Schuemann, Soderstrom; Harris, Toro,
Soderstrom; Soderstrom, Schuemann, Toro, Soderstrom).
Oakland
IP H R ER BB SO NP ERA
Stripling, L, 1-7
5 4 3 2 2 1 52 4.98
McFarland
1 1 0 0 0 1 12 4.76
Spence
2/3 2 2 2 1 1 20 4.26
Lucas
1 1/3 3 4 3 1 0 39 14.73
Houston
IP H R ER BB SO NP ERA
Arrighetti, W, 1-4
5 5 2 2
2
5 86 7.52
Montero, H, 5
1 1 0 0
0
1 14 3.38
Abreu, H, 7
1 0 0 0
1
2 16 3.60
Pressly, H, 6
1 2 0 0
0
1 18 5.28
Scott
1 1 0 0
0
3 16 2.50
Inherited runners-scored—Lucas 1-0. IBB—off Stripling (Alvarez).
HBP—Stripling (Altuve). WP—Arrighetti. Umpires—Home, Laz Diaz;
First, Mike Estabrook; Second, Erich Bacchus; Third, Tripp Gibson.
T—2:33. A—26,225 (41,000).

approach of getting the knob of
the bat past the ball. It’s an old
approach Tony Gwynn often
talked about and always has
worked for Bregman as well, although he said he somehow had
gotten away from it.
“That was it. Just take the
knob past the ball, and it kind of
clicked,” Bregman said. “Sometimes it’s something basic, simple that helps click. And hopefully, something like that you’re
able to repeat and take with
you.”

BALTIMORE — Jackson Holliday’s debut with the Baltimore
Orioles went south in a hurry
when the 20-year-old infielder
managed only two hits in 34 atbats, striking out in exactly half
his plate appearances.
If it’s any consolation, there
are a few other top prospects
who can probably relate.
Colt Keith in Detroit? He’s hitting .177. Wyatt Langford of the
Texas Rangers? He batted .224
before landing on the injured list.
Milwaukee’s Jackson Chourio
has been a little better, with four
home runs to his credit, but the
highly touted outfielder is hitting
.214 with an on-base percentage
of just .262.
None of those three were sent
back to the minor leagues like
Holliday — not yet, at least — but
their struggles are indicative of a
trend through the first month
and a half of the season. Just
when it appeared baseball’s
young standouts had mastered
the transition from Triple-A to
the majors, a few of the game’s
prized prospects showed up and
went through a humbling experience.
“I think this game is so hard already. Pitching is incredibly hard
to hit, harder than ever before.
The world we’re living in right
now, and the microscope these
guys are under, makes it way
more difficult,” Orioles manager
Brandon Hyde said. “It’s just
how it is right now. With social
media, pressure, and all these
things, it’s challenging.”
What makes this season a surprise is that it comes on the heels
of a couple great years for rookies. Last year’s class of rookie hitters produced the second-most
wins above replacement on record according to FanGraphs,
trailing only 2015. Corbin Carroll
of Arizona, the National League’s
Rookie of the Year in 2023, also
finished fifth in the MVP vote.
There were a number of theories on why rookie hitters
seemed so ready so fast: They’d
had experience in the minors
with new rules like the pitch
clock. The development process
is more advanced than ever.
Teams
invite
more prospects to
spring training,
where they can
face better pitching. And so on.
So when the
Orioles brought
up Holliday on
Holliday
April 10 — it was
actually something of a surprise
when they left him off the opening day roster — the expectation
was that he could contend for
Rookie of the Year honors right
away. When he started slowly,
fans at Camden Yards kept giving him big ovations when he
came to the plate — a warm gesture but one that may have only
added to the pressure.
Holliday was the No. 1 pick in
the 2022 draft out of high school,
and he was already in the majors
less than two years later. Langford was actually drafted last
year at No. 4, and he made the
opening day roster for the Rangers this year after playing only 44
games in the minors — an example that underscored how aggressive teams had become with
their top prospects following
rule changes that created incentives to bring players up instead
of delaying the start of their service time.
Keith had a great 2023 season
in the minors, and Detroit signed
him to a six-year contract worth
over $28 million before he’d ever
played a big league game. Chourio’s deal was even bigger: eight
years, $82 million.
“The spotlight has never been
brighter on the youngest of players at this level because we spotlight them at the youngest of development in A ball and Double-A, so their arrival is met with
a lot more notoriety, popularity
and expectation,” Detroit manager A.J. Hinch said. “No one loves
back-in-the-day stories, but we
used to be 100 or 200 at-bats before anyone was noticed, but now
you’re expected to contribute the
minute you step in the building.”

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 B7

HOUSTON CHRONICLE | HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM

FOR THE RECORD
MLB AT A GLANCE
AMERICAN LEAGUE
West Division
Seattle
Texas
Oakland
Houston
Los Angeles

W
23
22
19
16
15

L
19
21
24
25
27

Pct
.548
.512
.442
.390
.357

GB
—
1½
4½
6½
8

WCGB
—
3
6
8
9½

L10
6-4
5-5
3-7
5-5
3-7

Str
W-2
L-4
L-2
W-2
L-2

Home
14-9
10-10
10-13
8-12
5-15

Away
9-10
12-11
9-11
8-13
10-12

East Division
Baltimore
New York
Boston
Tampa Bay
Toronto

W
26
27
21
21
19

L
14
15
20
21
22

Pct
.650
.643
.512
.500
.463

GB
—
—
5½
6
7½

WCGB
—
+2 ½
3
3½
5

L10
7-3
7-3
3-7
7-3
4-6

Str
L-2
W-1
L-1
W-1
W-1

Home
14-9
13-6
9-11
14-12
9-9

Away
12-5
14-9
12-9
7-9
10-13

Home
12-6
11-8
15-8
10-12
8-13

Away
14-10
13-8
10-10
11-9
4-16

Central Division
Cleveland
Minnesota
Kansas City
Detroit
Chicago

W
26
24
25
21
12

L
16
16
18
21
29

Pct
.619
.600
.581
.500
.293

NATIONAL LEAGUE
West Division
Los Angeles
San Diego
Arizona
San Francisco
Colorado
East Division
Philadelphia
Atlanta
Washington
New York
Miami

W
28
22
20
19
13

W
30
25
19
19
12

Central Division
Milwaukee
Chicago
Pittsburgh
Cincinnati
St. Louis

L
15
22
22
24
28

L
13
13
20
22
32
W
24
24
19
17
17

GB
—
1
1½
5
13 ½

Pct GB
.651
—
.500 6 ½
.476 7 ½
.442
9
.317 14
Pct
.698
.658
.487
.463
.273

L
17
18
23
24
24

GB
—
2½
9
10
18 ½

Pct GB
.585
—
.571
½
.452 5 ½
.415
7
.415
7

WCGB
—
+½
—
3½
12

L10
6-4
7-3
5-5
3-7
6-4

Str
W-2
W-1
L-1
L-1
L-1

WCGB L10
— 8-2
— 6-4
1 6-4
2 ½ 4-6
7 ½ 6-4

Str
W-1
L-1
W-2
L-1
W-5

Home
15-8
10-14
10-10
11-9
9-12

Away
13-7
12-8
10-12
8-15
4-16

WCGB L10
— 8-2
+6 6-4
½ 5-5
1 ½ 3-7
10 3-7

Str
W-2
W-1
L-2
L-2
W-1

Home
15-7
14-4
7-10
10-14
6-17

Away
15-6
11-9
12-10
9-8
6-15

WCGB L10
— 4-6
+3 5-5
2 5-5
3 ½ 1-9
3 ½ 3-7

Str
L-2
L-1
W-1
L-3
W-2

Home
10-9
13-6
9-12
9-13
6-11

Away
14-8
11-12
10-11
8-11
11-13

Monday’s results
American League

National League

Houston 9, Oakland 2
Cleveland 7, Texas 0
Detroit 6, Miami 5
Toronto 3, Baltimore 2 (10)
Tampa Bay 5, Boston 3
Seattle 6, Kansas City 2
St. Louis 10, Angels 5
Washington at White Sox, ppd.

Detroit 6, Miami 5
Atlanta 2, Cubs 0
Philadelphia 5, Mets 4 (10)
Pittsburgh 8, Milwaukee 6
Colorado 5, San Diego 4
St. Louis 10, Angels 5
Dodgers 6, San Francisco 4 (10)
Arizona 6, Cincinnati 5
Washington at White Sox, ppd.

Tuesday’s results
American League

National League

Miami 1, Detroit 0 (10)
Washington 6, White Sox 3 (1st)
Washington at White Sox, late (2nd)
Oakland at Houston, late
Cleveland at Texas, late
Tampa Bay at Boston, late
Yankees at Minnesota, late
Washington at White Sox, late
St. Louis at Angels, late
Kansas City at Seattle, late
Toronto at Baltimore, ppd.

Philadelphia 4, Mets 0
Miami 1, Detroit 0 (10)
Washington 6, White Sox 3 (1st)
Washington at White Sox, late (2nd)
Cubs at Atlanta, late
Pittsburgh at Milwaukee, late
St. Louis at Angels, late
Cincinnati at Arizona, late
Colorado at San Diego, late
Dodgers at San Francisco, late

American League

Toronto (Kikuchi 2-3) at Baltimore (Irvin 4-1), 11:35 a.m.
Miami (Rogers 0-6) at Detroit (Mize 1-1), 12:10 p.m.
Washington (Corbin 1-3) at White Sox (Crochet 3-4), 1:10 p.m.
Kansas City (Marsh 3-0) at Seattle (Woo 0-0), 3:10 p.m.
Tampa Bay (Bradley 0-1) at Boston (Houck 3-4), 6:10 p.m.
Yankees (Stroman 2-2) at Minnesota (López 4-2), 6:40 p.m.
Cleveland (Carrasco 2-3) at Texas (Gray 1-1), 7:05 p.m.
Oakland (Brooks 0-0) at Houston (Valdez 2-1), 7:10 p.m.
St. Louis (Lynn 1-1) at Angels (Canning 1-4), 8:07 p.m.

Odds

Television

NBA

Hockey
Hockey
MLB
MLB
MLB
MLB
MLB
MLB
NBA
NBA

Home team capitalized
Wednesday
FAVORITE
BOSTON
OKLAHOMA CITY

LINE
15
4½

O/U
205 ½
213

UNDERDOG
Cleveland
Dallas

MLB
Wednesday

American League
FAVORITE
Toronto
SEATTLE
BOSTON
N.Y Yankees
TEXAS
HOUSTON

LINE
-122
-164
-134
-112
-152
-230

UNDERDOG
at BALTIMORE
Kansas City
Tampa Bay
at MINNESOTA
Cleveland
Oakland

LINE
+104
+138
+116
-104
+128
+190

FAVORITE
MILWAUKEE
Cincinnati
SAN DIEGO
PHILADELPHIA
ATLANTA
SAN FRANCISCO

LINE
-132
-116
-295
-174
OFF
OFF

UNDERDOG
Pittsburgh
at ARIZONA
Colorado
N.Y Mets
Chicago Cubs
LA Dodgers

LINE
+112
-102
+240
+146
OFF
OFF

Interleague
LINE
-162
-138
-124

UNDERDOG
Miami
Washington
at LA ANGELS

LINE
+136
+118
+106

NHL
LINE UNDERDOG
-146 Colorado

LINE
+122

East
W L
Sugar Land (Houston)
25 14
Oklahoma City (L.A. Dodgers)
23 17
Round Rock (Texas)
21 17
El Paso (San Diego)
17 22
Albuquerque (Colorado)
12 27
West
W L
Sacramento (San Francisco)
23 17
Tacoma (Seattle)
21 18
Reno (Arizona)
19 20
Las Vegas (Oakland)
18 21
Salt Lake (L.A. Angels)
16 22
Monday’s results
No games scheduled.
Tuesday’s results
Sacramento 3, Oklahoma City 1
Sugar Land at Albuquerque, late
Reno at Round Rock, late
Salt Lake at Tacoma, late
El Paso at Las Vegas, late
Wednesday’s games
Reno at Round Rock, 7:05 p.m.
Sugar Land at Albuquerque, 7:35 p.m.
Salt Lake at Tacoma, 8:05 p.m.
Oklahoma City at Sacramento, 8:45 p.m.
El Paso at Las Vegas, 9:05 p.m.
Thursday’s games
Reno at Round Rock, 7:05 p.m.
Sugar Land at Albuquerque, 7:35 p.m.
Oklahoma City at Sacramento, 8:45 p.m.
Salt Lake at Tacoma, 9:05 p.m.
El Paso at Las Vegas, 9:05 p.m.

Pct. GB
.641 —
.575 2 ½
.553 3 ½
.436 8
.308 13
Pct. GB
.575 2 ½
.538 4
.487 6
.462 7
.421 8 ½

Basketball
WNBA

Tuesday’s results
New York at Washington, late
Indiana at Connecticut, late
Minnesota at Seattle, late
Phoenix at Las Vegas, late
Wednesday’s games
Chicago at Dallas, 7 p.m.
Atlanta at Los Angeles, 9 p.m.
Thursday’s game
New York at Indiana, 6 p.m.

Keibert Ruiz and Trey
Lipscomb each hit an RBI
single during visiting
Washington’s three-run
eighth inning, and the
Nationals beat the White
Sox 6-3 on Tuesday in the
opener of a doubleheader.
... The Blue Jays’ game
against the Orioles on
Tuesday night was postponed due to rain. ... The
Cubs added bullpen
depth on Tuesday by
acquiring right-hander
Tyson Miller from the
Mariners for minor
league infielder Jake
Slaughter. ... The Brewers
placed first baseman
Rhys Hoskins on the
10-day injured list with a
strained right hamstring.
Wire reports

MLB

Oakland at Astros
In Spanish
Space Cowboys at Albuquerque
Dynamo at Austin (Spanish)

Gm. 3: Gm. 1 winner vs. Gm. 2 winner, 4 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 4: Gm. 1 loser vs. Gm. 2 loser, 6:30 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 5: Gm. 3 loser vs. Gm. 4 winner, 9 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 6: Gm. 3 winner vs. Gm. 5 winner, TBA Sunday
Gm. 7*: Gm. 6 opponents, TBA Sunday

Columbia (Mo.) regional
Gm. 1: Washington (31-13) vs. Indiana (40-18), 2 p.m.
Friday
Gm. 2: Missouri (43-15) vs. Omaha (41-13), 4:30 p.m. Friday
Gm. 3: Gm. 1 winner vs. Gm. 2 winner, 2 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 4: Gm. 1 loser vs. Gm. 2 loser, 4:30 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 5: Gm. 3 loser vs. Gm. 4 winner, 7 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 6: Gm. 3 winner vs. Gm. 5 winner, TBA Sunday
Gm. 7*: Gm. 6 opponents, TBA Sunday

Durham (N.C.) regional
Gm. 1: South Carolina (34-22) vs. Utah (34-20), 11 a.m.
Friday
Gm. 2: Duke (47-6) vs. Morgan St. (35-18), 1:30 p.m. Friday
Gm. 3: Gm. 1 winner vs. Gm. 2 winner, 10 a.m. Saturday
Gm. 4: Gm. 1 loser vs. Gm. 2 loser, 12:30 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 5: Gm. 3 loser vs. Gm. 4 winner, 3 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 6: Gm. 3 winner vs. Gm. 5 winner, TBA Sunday
Gm. 7*: Gm. 6 opponents, TBA Sunday

Tallahassee (Fla.) regional
Gm. 1: Auburn (27-19-1) vs. UCF (30-23), 1 p.m. Friday
Gm. 2: Florida St. (43-14) vs. Chattanooga (42-14), 3:30
p.m. Friday
Gm. 3: Gm. 1 winner vs. Gm. 2 winner, 2 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 4: Gm. 1 loser vs. Gm. 2 loser, 4:30 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 5: Gm. 3 loser vs. Gm. 4 winner, 7 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 6: Gm. 3 winner vs. Gm. 5 winner, TBA Sunday
Gm. 7*: Gm. 6 opponents, TBA Sunday

Norman (Okla.) regional
Gm. 1: Oregon (28-19) vs. Boston U. (52-4-1), 4:30 p.m.
Friday
Gm. 2: Oklahoma (49-6) vs. Cleveland St. (22-24), 7 p.m.
Friday
Gm. 3: Gm. 1 winner vs. Gm. 2 winner, 2 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 4: Gm. 1 loser vs. Gm. 2 loser, 4:30 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 5: Gm. 3 loser vs. Gm. 4 winner, 7 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 6: Gm. 3 winner vs. Gm. 5 winner, TBA Sunday
Gm. 7*: Gm. 6 opponents, TBA Sunday
*If necessary

Austin regional

USFL CONFERENCE
Birmingham
Michigan
Memphis
Houston

Stanford (Calif.) regional

ODDS AND ENDS

NHL
NHL
MLB
MLB
MLB
BSSW*
SCHN
MLB
ESPN2
TNT, truTV

9 a.m.
1 p.m.
11:30 a.m.
2:30 p.m.
5:30 p.m.
7 p.m.
7 p.m.
8:30 p.m.
noon
6 p.m.

TNT, truTV

8:30 p.m.

ESPN

7 p.m.

CBSSN

2 p.m.

USA
Tennis
Tennis
CBSSN

2 p.m.
6 a.m.
noon
6 p.m.

CBSSN

8:30 p.m.

Radio

Football

Gm. 1: California (36-17) vs. S. Illinois (42-9), 2:30 p.m.
Friday
Gm. 2: LSU (40-15) vs. Jackson St. (33-17), 5 p.m. Friday
Gm. 3: Gm. 1 winner vs. Gm. 2 winner, Noon Saturday
Gm. 4: Game 1 loser vs. Gm. 2 loser, 2:30 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 5: Gm. 3 loser vs. Gm. 4 winner, 5 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 6: Gm. 3 winner vs. Gm. 5 winner, TBA Sunday
Gm. 7*: Gm. 6 opponents, TBA Sunday

Aaron Nola pitched a
four-hitter for his fourth
major league shutout and
the Philadelphia Phillies
beat the slumping New
York Mets 4-0 on Tuesday for a two-game
sweep.
Philadelphia scored
twice in the third inning
against starter Jose Buttó
on a hit by pitch and a
bases-loaded walk. Bryson Stott had a run-scoring single in the ninth
and Alec Bohm doubled
home a run to finish with
two RBIs.
Nola (5-2) did the rest,
throwing 109 pitches in
his sixth career complete
game and first since a
five-hit shutout against
Cincinnati in August
2022. He struck out eight
and walked none.

PVF (semifinal):
Grand Rapids at Atlanta
Volleyball
PVF (semifinal):
San Diego at Omaha
* Xfinity no longer carries BSSW

Softball
NCAA Division I Softball regionals

Baton Rouge (La.) regional

NOLA, PHILLIES TOP METS
WITH FOUR-HIT SHUTOUT

Worlds: Czech Republic vs. Denmark
Worlds: Poland vs. Slovakia
Toronto at Baltimore
Cincinnati at Arizona
N.Y. Mets at Philadelphia
Cleveland at Texas
Oakland at Astros
L.A. Dodgers at San Francisco
Draft Combine: from Chicago
Eastern Conference (semifinal):
Cleveland at Boston (Game 5)
Western Conference (semifinal):
Dallas at Oklahoma City (Game 5)
Western Conference (semifinal):
Colorado at Dallas (Game 5)
Italian Cup (final):
Atalanta vs. Juventus
Premier: Newcastle at Man. United
ATP-WTA: Italian Open

740 AM, 790 AM
7 p.m.
104.9 FM HD-2
92.5 FM
7:30 p.m.
93.3 FM, 1010 AM 7:30 p.m.

Triple-A Pacific Coast League

Gm. 1: Texas State (45-13) vs. Penn St. (34-18), 3 p.m.
Friday
Gm. 2: Texas A&M (40-13) vs. Albany (NY) (33-12), 5:30
p.m. Friday
Gm. 3: Gm. 1 winner vs. Gm. 2 winner, 2 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 4: Gm. 1 loser vs. Gm. 2 loser, 4:30 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 5: Gm. 3 loser vs. Gm. 4 winner, 7 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 6: Gm. 3 winner vs. Gm. 5 winner, TBA Sunday
Gm. 7*: Gm. 6 opponents, TBA Sunday

MLB NOTEBOOK

Soccer
Tennis

MiLB
Soccer

Baseball

Bryan-College Station regional

Miami (Rogers 0-6) at Detroit (Mize 1-1), 12:10 p.m.
Pittsburgh (Pérez 1-2) at Milwaukee (Gasser 1-0), 12:10 p.m.
Washington (Corbin 1-3) at White Sox (Crochet 3-4), 1:10 p.m.
Cincinnati (Abbott 2-4) at Arizona (Pfaadt 1-3), 2:40 p.m.
Colorado (Gomber 0-2) at San Diego (King 3-3), 3:10 p.m.
Mets (Houser 0-3) at Philadelphia (Suárez 7-0), 5:40 p.m.
Cubs (Assad 3-0) at Atlanta (Morton 3-0), 6:20 p.m.
St. Louis (Lynn 1-1) at Angels (Canning 1-4), 8:07 p.m.
Dodgers (TBD) at San Francisco (Webb 3-4), 8:45 p.m.

Soccer

AROUND SPORTS

Volleyball

FAVORITE
DETROIT
CHICAGO WHITE SOX
St. Louis
Wednesday
FAVORITE
DALLAS

NBA
NHL

National League

Gm. 1: Texas (47-7) vs. Siena (33-20), 3 p.m. Friday
Gm. 2: Northwestern (33-11) vs. St. Francis (Pa.) (40-12),
5:30 p.m. Friday
Gm. 3: Gm. 1 winner vs. Gm. 2 winner, Noon Saturday
Gm. 4: Gm. 1 loser vs. Gm. 2 loser, 2:30 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 5: Gm. 3 loser vs. Gm. 4 winner, 5 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 6: Gm. 3 winner vs. Gm. 5 winner, TBA Sunday
Gm. 7*: Gm. 6 opponents, TBA Sunday

National League

The former interpreter
for Los Angeles Dodgers
star Shohei Ohtani pleaded not guilty Tuesday to
bank and tax fraud, a
formality ahead of a plea
deal he’s negotiated with
federal prosecutors in a
wide-ranging sports
betting case.
Prosecutors say Ippei
Mizuhara stole nearly $17
million from the Ohtani
to pay off sports gambling debts during a
yearslong scheme, at
times impersonating
Ohtani to bankers, and
exploited his personal
and professional relationship with the two-way
player. Mizuhara signed a
plea agreement that detailed the allegations on
May 5, and prosecutors
announced it several days
later.
During his arraignment Tuesday in federal
court in Los Angeles,
U.S. Magistrate Judge
Jean P. Rosenbluth asked
Mizuhara to enter a plea
to one count of bank
fraud and one count of
subscribing to a false tax
return. The expected
not-guilty plea was a
procedural step as the
case moves forward, even
though he has already
agreed to a plea deal. He
is expected to plead
guilty at a later date.
There was no evidence
Ohtani was involved in or
aware of Mizuhara’s
gambling, and the player
is cooperating with investigators, authorities
said.

ON THE AIR

Colleges

Wednesday’s games

EX-INTERPRETER ENTERS
PROCEDURAL PLEA

SCOREBOARD

Gm. 1: Mississippi St. (33-18) vs. Cal St.-Fullerton (3617), 6:30 p.m. Friday
Gm. 2: Stanford (43-13) vs. Saint Mary’s (Cal) (30-22), 9
p.m. Friday
Gm. 3: Game 1 winner vs. Gm. 2 winner, 4 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 4: Game 1 loser vs. Gm. 2 loser, 6:30 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 5: Gm. 3 loser vs. Gm. 4 winner, 9 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 6: Gm. 3 winner vs. Game 5 winner, TBA Sunday
Game 7*: Gm. 6 opponents, TBA Sunday

Stillwater (Okla.) regional
Gm. 1: Kentucky (30-22) vs. Michigan (41-16), 2 p.m. Friday
Gm. 2: Oklahoma St. (44-10) vs. N. Colorado (27-24),
4:30 p.m. Friday
Gm. 3: Gm. 1 winner vs. Gm. 2 winner, Noon Saturday
Game 4: Gm. 1 loser vs. Gm. 2 loser, 2:30 p.m. Saturday
Game 5: Gm. 3 loser vs. Gm. 4 winner, 5 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 6: Gm. 3 winner vs. Gm. 5 winner, TBA Sunday
Gm. 7*: Gm. 6 opponents, TBA Sunday

Fayetteville (Ark.) regional
Game 1: Arizona (34-16-1) vs. Villanova (31-22), 5 p.m.
Friday
Gm. 2: Arkansas (36-16) vs. SE Missouri (28-24), 7:30
p.m. Friday
Gm. 3: Gm. 1 winner vs. Gm. 2 winner, 2 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 4: Gm. 1 loser vs. Gm. 2 loser, 4:30 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 5: Gm. 3 loser vs. Gm. 4 winner, 7 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 6: Gm. 3 winner vs. Gm. 5 winner, TBA Sunday
Gm. 7*: Gm. 6 opponents, TBA Sunday

Lafayette (La.) regional
Gm. 1: Louisiana-Lafayette (42-17) vs. Princeton (29-16),
4:30 p.m. Friday
Gm. 2: Baylor (32-20) vs. Mississippi (31-25), 7 p.m. Friday
Gm. 3: Gm. 1 winner vs. Gm. 2 winner, 2 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 4: Gm. 1 loser vs. Gm. 2 loser, 4:30 p.m. Saturday
Game 5: Gm. 3 loser vs. Gm. 4 winner, 7 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 6: Gm. 3 winner vs. Gm. 5 winner, TBA Sunday
Gm. 7*: Gm. 6 opponents, TBA Sunday

Gainesville (Fla.) regional
Gm. 1: Florida (46-12) Florida Gulf Coast (37-19), 11 a.m.
Friday
Gm. 2: S. Alabama (32-18-1) vs. Florida Atlantic (41-14),
1:30 p.m. Friday
Gm. 3: Gm. 1 winner vs. Gm. 2 winner, Noon Saturday
Gm. 4: Gm. 1 loser vs. Gm. 2 loser, 2:30 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 5: Gm. 3 loser vs. Gm. 4 winner, 5 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 6: Gm. 3 winner vs. Gm. 5 winner, TBA Sunday
Gm. 7*: Gm. 6 opponents, TBA Sunday

Knoxville regional
Gm. 1: Virginia (32-18) vs. Miami (Ohio) (48-7), 11 a.m.
Friday
Gm. 2: Tennessee (40-10) vs. Dayton (33-19), 1:30 p.m.
Friday
Gm. 3: Gm. 1 winner vs. Gm. 2 winner, Noon Saturday
Gm. 4: Gm. 1 loser vs. Gm. 2 loser, 2:30 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 5: Gm. 3 loser vs. Gm. 4 winner, 5 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 6: Gm. 3 winner vs. Gm. 5 winner, TBA Sunday
Gm. 7*: Gm. 6 opponents, TBA Sunday

Tuscaloosa (Ala.) regional
Gm. 1: Clemson (34-17) vs. SE Louisiana (45-13), 1 p.m.
Friday
Gm. 2: Alabama (33-17) vs. SC-Upstate (30-21), 3:30
p.m. Friday
Gm. 3: Gm. 1 winner vs. Gm. 2 winner, 2 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 4: Gm. 1 loser vs. Gm. 2 loser, 4:30 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 5: Gm. 3 loser vs. Gm. 4 winner, 7 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 6: Gm. 3 winner vs. Gm. 5 winner, TBA Sunday
Gm. 7*: Gm. 6 opponents, TBA Sunday

Athens (Ga.) regional
Gm.1: Charlotte (38-16) vs. Liberty (36-23), 2 p.m. Friday
Gm. 2: Georgia (39-16) vs. UNC-Wilmington (33-21), 4:30
p.m. Friday
Gm. 3: Gm. 1 winner vs. Gm. 2 winner, Noon Saturday
Gm. 4: Gm. 1 loser vs. Gm. 2 loser, 2:30 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 5: Gm. 3 loser vs. Gm. 4 winner, 5 p.m. Saturday
Gm. 6: Gm. 3 winner vs. Gm. 5 winner, TBA Sunday
Gm. 7*: Gm. 6 opponents, TBA Sunday

Los Angeles regional
Gm. 1: Virginia Tech (39-12-1) vs. San Diego St. (31-18), 5
p.m. Friday
Gm. 2: UCLA (37-10) vs. Grand Canyon (48-11), 7:30 p.m.
Friday

UFL

W
7
5
1
1

L
0
2
6
6

XFL CONFERENCE
W L
St. Louis
5 2
San Antonio
5 2
DC
3 4
Arlington
1 6
Saturday’s games
Memphis at Michigan, 3 p.m.
Houston at Birmingham, 7 p.m.
Sunday’s games
DC at St. Louis, 11 a.m.
Arlington at San Antonio, 3 p.m.

T
Pct PF PA
0 1.000 201 115
0 .714 159 129
0 .143 130 218
0 .143 96 153
T
0
0
0
0

Pct
.714
.714
.429
.143

PF
199
142
121
164

PA
133
116
172
176

Region III
Katy vs. Brazoswood
All games at Iowa Colony HS
Game 1: 6:30 p.m. Wednesday
Game 2: 6:30 p.m. Thursday
Game 3*: 1 p.m. Saturday
Heights vs. Kingwood
All games at Humble HS
Game 1: 7 p.m. Wednesday
Game 2: 7 p.m. Thursday
Game 3*: 7 p.m. Friday

Class 5A
Region III
Foster vs. Lake Creek
All games at Cypress Ranch HS
Game 1: 6:30 p.m. Thursday
Game 2: 5:30 p.m. Friday
Game 3*: After Game 2
Barbers Hill vs. Lake Belton
One-game playoff
6:30 p.m. Friday, Navasota HS

Class 4A
Region III
Liberty vs. Salado
All games at Huntsville HS
Game 1: 7 p.m. Thursday
Game 2: 5 p.m. Friday
Game 3*: After Game 2
Region IV
Sealy vs. Calallen
All games at Cuero HS
Game 1: 6:30 p.m. Thursday
Game 2: 6:30 p.m. Friday
Game 3*: Noon Saturday
Needville vs. Floresville
All games at Hallettsville HS
Game 1: 7 p.m. Thursday
Game 2: 1 p.m. Saturday
Game 3*: After Game 2

Class 3A
Region III
East Bernard vs. Franklin
All games at Waller HS
Game 1: 6 p.m. Friday
Game 2: Noon Saturday
Game 3*: After Game 2
Region IV
Columbus vs. Lyford
All games at Sinton HS
Game 1: 6 p.m. Friday
Game 2: 2 p.m. Saturday
Game 3*: After Game 2
*If necessary

Rugby
MLR

Western Conference
Houston
Seattle
San Diego
Dallas
Utah
Los Angeles

W
9
8
6
4
4
2

L
1
2
3
6
6
6

D
0
0
0
0
0
1

PF
324
310
212
314
260
194

PA
216
221
208
282
242
282

PTS
44
40
30
28
25
17

Eastern Conference

Golf

Holes-in-one

Name, course, hole, yards, club
Masa Nagashima, The Woodlands CC, West No. 3, 134
yards, 5 iron
Will Hayes, Lakeside CC, No. 8, 160 yards, 8 iron

New England
Chicago
Nola
D.C.
Miami
Anthem RC

W
6
5
5
4
3
0

L
3
4
4
4
7
10

D
0
1
0
2
0
0

PF
276
301
248
218
219
191

PA
191
246
223
255
247
454

PTS
30
28
26
24
17
3

Baseball
Regional quarterfinal pairings

Class 6A
Region II
Willis vs. Tomball
Game 1: 7 p.m. Thursday, Tomball HS
Game 2: 7 p.m. Friday, Wildkat Field (Lynn Lucas MS)
Game 3*: Noon Saturday, West Fork HS
Bridgeland vs. Klein Oak
Game 1: 7 p.m. Thursday, Bridgeland HS
Game 2: 7 p.m. Friday, Klein Oak HS
Game 3*: 1 p.m. Saturday, Grand Oaks HS
Region III
Memorial vs. Cinco Ranch
All games at Constellation Field (Sugar Land)
Game 1: 7 p.m. Thursday
Game 2: 7 p.m. Friday
Game 3*: 6 p.m. Saturday
Atascocita vs. Pearland
All games at Deer Park HS
Game 1: 7 p.m. Thursday
Game 2: 7 p.m. Friday
Game 3*: 6 p.m. Saturday
Katy vs. Cy-Fair
All games at Langham Creek HS
Game 1: 6 p.m. Thursday
Game 2: 2 p.m. Saturday
Game 3*: After Game 2
Deer Park vs. Clear Springs
All games at Crosby HS
Game 1: 6 p.m. Thursday
Game 2: 6 p.m. Friday
Game 3*: 1 p.m. Saturday

Class 5A
Region III
Friendswood vs. Port Neches-Groves
All games at Barbers Hill HS
Game 1: 7 p.m. Thursday
Game 2: 7 p.m. Friday
Game 3*: 2 p.m. Saturday
Magnolia vs. Lake Creek
All games at Cypress Lakes HS
Game 1; 7 p.m. Wednesday
Game 2: 7 p.m. Friday
Game 3*: 3 p.m. Saturday
Santa Fe vs. Foster
All games at Crawford HS
Game 1: 6:30 p.m. Thursday
Game 2: 4:30 p.m. Friday
Game 3*: After Game 2
Magnolia West vs. A&M Consolidated
Game 1: 7 p.m. Wednesday, Fireman’s Park (Brenham)
Game 2: 7 p.m. Friday, Fireman’s Park (Brenham)
Game 3*: 2 p.m. Saturday, Huntsville HS

Class 4A
Region IV
El Campo vs. Boerne
All games at Sinton HS
Game 1: 7 p.m. Thursday
Game 2: 5 p.m. Friday
Game 3*: After Game 2
Sweeny vs. Needville
All games at Cypress Ranch HS
Game 1: 7 p.m. Thursday
Game 2: 2 p.m. Saturday
Game 3*: After Game 2

Class 3A
Region IV
Columbus vs. Tidehaven
Game 1: 5 p.m. Thursday, Weimar HS
Game 2: After Game 1
Game 3*: 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Palacios HS

Softball
Regional semifinal pairings
Class 6A
Region II
Bridgeland vs. Waco Midway
All games at Caldwell HS
Game 1: 6:30 p.m. Thursday
Game 2: 6:30 p.m. Friday
Game 3*: 1 p.m. Saturday
Oak Ridge vs. Rockwall
All games at Georgetown HS
Game 1: 6:30 p.m. Thursday
Game 2: 6:30 p.m. Friday
Game 3*: 1 p.m. Saturday

Sunday’s games

New England at San Diego, 3 p.m.
Seattle at Dallas, 6 p.m.

Soccer
MLS

Eastern Conference
W
8
7
5
6
5
5
4
3
3
3
3
3
2
2
2

L
2
2
2
5
5
5
3
2
3
5
5
5
4
6
8

T
3
3
5
1
2
2
5
6
5
3
3
3
5
4
1

Pts
27
24
20
19
17
17
17
15
14
12
12
12
11
10
7

GF
35
15
20
16
14
13
19
13
21
16
14
15
14
12
9

GA
20
10
18
17
14
13
19
11
19
14
20
23
19
22
22

W L T Pts GF
Real Salt Lake
6 2 4 22 20
Minnesota United
6 2 2 20 17
LA Galaxy
5 2 5 20 23
Vancouver
5 3 3 18 18
Los Angeles FC
5 4 3 18 22
Colorado
5 4 3 18 20
Houston
5 4 2 17 11
Austin FC
4 4 4 16 15
St Louis City
3 1 7 16 18
Seattle
3 5 4 13 15
FC Dallas
3 6 2 11 12
Sporting Kansas City
2 5 5 11 19
San Jose
3 8 1 10 20
Portland
2 6 4 10 21
NOTE: Three points for victory, one point for tie.
Wednesday’s games
Atlanta at Cincinnati, 6:30 p.m.
New York at D.C. United, 6:30 p.m.
Columbus at CF Montréal, 6:30 p.m.
Miami at Orlando City, 6:30 p.m.
New York City FC at Philadelphia, 6:30 p.m.
Houston at Austin FC, 7:30 p.m.
Charlotte FC at Chicago, 7:30 p.m.
LA Galaxy at Minnesota, 7:30 p.m.
Toronto FC at Nashville, 7:30 p.m.
Los Angeles FC at St Louis City, 7:30 p.m.
Vancouver at Colorado, 8:30 p.m.
Seattle at Real Salt Lake, 8:30 p.m.
San Jose at Portland, 9:30 p.m.

GA
11
11
19
13
19
18
11
15
15
14
16
21
28
25

Western Conference

NWSL
W L T Pts GF
Kansas City
6 0 3
21 22
Orlando
6 0 3
21 15
Washington
6 3 0
18 18
Portland
5 3 1
16 21
Chicago
5 3 1
16 14
North Carolina
4 5 0
12 12
Gotham FC
3 2 3
12
6
San Diego
3 3 2
11
8
Angel City
3 4 1
10
9
Houston
2 4 3
9
8
Louisville
1 2 5
8 11
Seattle
2 6 1
7
7
Bay FC
2 7 0
6 13
Utah Royals FC
1 7 1
4
6
NOTE: Three points for victory, one point for tie.
Friday’s games
Portland at Houston, 7 p.m.
Utah Royals FC at North Carolina, 7 p.m.
San Diego at Bay FC, 9:30 p.m.
Saturday’s games
Angel City at Washington, 6:30 p.m.
Louisville at Kansas City, 8:30 p.m.
Sunday’s games
Chicago at Gotham FC, 4 p.m.
Orlando at Seattle, 5 p.m.

GREEN BAY, Wis. —
Longtime basketball radio
analyst Doug Gottlieb
will make his college head
coaching debut next season at Green Bay.
Green Bay announced
Tuesday that Gottlieb will
take over for Sundance
Wicks, who left the Phoenix of the Horizon League
after one year to take over
Wyoming’s program.
Green Bay went 18-14 in
Wicks’ lone season after
posting a 3-29 record the
year before his arrival.
Gottlieb will have his
introductory news conference Wednesday morning.
“Every kid has a dream
growing up,” Gottlieb said
in a statement released by
the university. “Some want
to be firefighter. Others
want to be president. I
have always wanted to be a
head basketball coach at
the Division I level.”
Gottlieb has little coaching experience beyond
helping the United States
team win gold in the 2017
and 2022 Maccabiah
Games, an international
multi-sport event for Jewish athletes.
Gottlieb played at Notre
Dame in 1995-96 and at
Oklahoma State from
1997-2000.
He has worked as a
broadcaster for most of the
last two decades. He currently hosts “The Doug
Gottlieb Show” on Fox
Sports Radio.
He will reportedly conhosting his radio show
while coaching Green Bay.
Horns, Bears in Maui
field: Texas and Baylor
will be among the eight
teams in the field for the
2025 Maui Invitational in
Lahaina, Hawaii.
The tournament field
announced Tuesday also
will include North Carolina State, Oregon, Seton
Hall, Southern Cal, UNLV
and host Chaminade.

New team to be
called Valkyries

Los Angeles at Anthem RC, 6 p.m.
Utah at New Orleans, 7 p.m.
Chicago at Houston, 7 p.m.

Inter Miami CF
Cincinnati
New York
Toronto FC
New York City FC
Charlotte FC
D.C. United
Columbus
Philadelphia
Atlanta
Orlando City
CF Montréal
Nashville
Chicago
New England

WI RE RE P ORT S

WNBA

Saturday’s games

High schools

Show host
Gottlieb
lands job
as coach

GA
12
7
12
14
12
11
6
7
12
16
9
14
20
18

The new WNBA franchise that’s affiliated with
the Golden State Warriors
will be called the Golden
State Valkyries.
The team will start play
in 2025 with games at San
Francisco’s Chase Center.
TENNIS

Medvedev joins
Italian victims
Defending champion
Daniil Medvedev became
the latest top player to
crash out of the Italian
Open as he lost to American Tommy Paul on
Tuesday in Rome.
The 14th-seeded Paul
dominated 6-1, 6-4.
The second-seeded
Medvedev followed 10time champion Rafael
Nadal and top-ranked
Novak Djokovic with
early exits in Rome.
In the women’s tournament, top-ranked Iga
Swiatek reached the final
four when she swept aside
former finalist Madison
Keys 6-1, 6-3. Swiatek will
next face third-seeded
Coco Gauff, who beat
Qinwen Zheng 7-6 (4), 6-1.
SOCCER

France’s Giroud
coming to MLS
World Cup-winning
French striker Olivier
Giroud is signing with
Los Angeles FC.
LAFC announced the
long-anticipated move
Tuesday. Giroud, 37,
played 18 years in the top
leagues in France, England
and Italy, most recently
with AC Milan.

BUSINESS

HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM • WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 • PAGE B8

SpaceX owes contractors over $2.5M
Texas vendors have filed 72 liens
against company for unpaid bills

Musk expanding in Bastrop County
with $7M addition to Starlink site

By Brandon Lingle

By Brandon Lingle

STA FF WRIT E R

Elon Musk’s SpaceX can
launch rockets into space
every few days but apparently has problems sending checks to its vendors —
including four in San Antonio.
According to Cameron
County property records,
at least 72 liens have been
filed against the commer-

cial space company’s Texas
properties by more than a
dozen contractors who are
owed a combined $2.5 million.
The list, which was first
reported by Reuters, includes two San Antonio
electric supply distributors, a concrete company
and a construction services firm that have filed liens
totaling more than $117,000.
Liens continues on B16

STAF F WRI TE R

Jon Shapley/Staff photographer

Work continues in March at a launch facility near
Boca Chica. More than a dozen contractors are owed.

Elon Musk is continuing his corporate construction campaign in
Texas with a $7 million
project in Bastrop County involving SpaceX and
its satellite subsidiary.
SpaceX, Musk’s commercial space company,
intends to build a $7 million project to add

150,000 square feet to its
ECHO office building at
its Starlink satellite factory, according to a filing
Saturday with the Texas
Department of Licensing
and Regulation. Plans
call for expanding office
space and adding a laboratory facility and employee kitchen. Construction is set to begin
in June and be complete
Musk continues on B16

Far-right
trustees
begin
purge at
Cy-Fair

CHRIS TOMLINSON
C OM M E N TARY

Ross D. Franklin/Associated Press

A Waymo autonomous minivan moves along a street as it gives passengers a ride in Chandler, Ariz., in 2021.

Waymo is latest company facing
investigation of self-driving tech
By Tom Krisher
A SS OC IAT E D PRE SS

DETROIT — The U.S. government’s highway safety agency has opened another investigation of automated driving
systems, this time into crashes
involving Waymo’s self-driving
vehicles.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration posted documents detailing the
probe on its website early Tuesday after getting 22 reports of
Waymo vehicles either crashing or doing something that
may have violated traffic laws.
In the past month, the agency
has opened at least four investigations of vehicles that can either drive themselves or take on
at least some driving functions
as it appears to be getting more
aggressive in regulating the devices.
In the probe of Waymo,
which was once Google’s selfdriving vehicle unit, the agency
said it has reports of 17 crashes
and five other reports of possible traffic law violations. No injuries were reported.
In the crashes, the Waymo
vehicles hit stationary objects
such as gates, chains or parked
vehicles. Some of the incidents
happened shortly after the
Waymo driving system behaved unexpectedly near traffic
control devices, according to
the documents.
Waymo said NHTSA plays
an important role in road safety,
and it will continue working
with the agency “as part of our
mission to become the world’s
most trusted driver.”
The company said it makes
over 50,000 weekly trips with
riders in challenging environments. “We are proud of our
performance and safety record
over tens of millions of autono-

Terry Chea/Associated Press

A Waymo driverless taxi stops on a street in San Francisco. The NHTSA said it has reports
of 17 crashes and five reports of traffic violations involving Waymo’s self-driving vehicles.

mous miles driven, as well as
our demonstrated commitment
to safety transparency,” the
statement said.
Waymo, based in Mountain
View, Calif., has been operating
robotaxis without human safety drivers in Arizona and California.
Michael Brooks, executive
director of the nonprofit Center
for Auto Safety, said NHTSA’s
more aggressive actions show
that autonomous vehicles may
not be ready yet for public
roads.
The agency’s only enforcement power on autonomous vehicles, at present, is to open investigations and seek recalls,
which it is doing, Brooks said.
NHTSA has been criticized in
the past for being slow to regulate Tesla and other companies that offer automated driving systems, but Brooks said
things appear to have changed.

“Ultimately, I think it’s a
good thing here that they’re
taking these steps, trying to figure out why these vehicles are
acting the way they are,”
Brooks said.
NHTSA said it would investigate the 22 incidents involving
Waymo’s fifth generation driving system plus similar scenarios “to more closely assess any
commonalities in these incidents.”
The agency said it understands that Waymo’s automated driving system was engaged
throughout each incident, or in
some cases involving a test vehicle, a human driver disengaged the system just before an
accident happened.
The probe will evaluate the
system’s performance in detecting and responding to traffic
control devices, and in avoiding
crashes with stationary and
semi-stationary objects and ve-

hicles, the documents said.
Since late April, NHTSA has
opened investigations into collisions involving self-driving vehicles run by Amazon-owned
Zoox, as well as partially automated driver-assist systems offered by Tesla and Ford.
In 2021 the agency ordered all
companies with self-driving vehicles or partially automated
systems to report all crashes to
the government. The probes rely heavily on data reported by
the automakers under that order.
NHTSA also is investigating
General Motors’ Cruise autonomous vehicle unit after getting
reports that the vehicles may
not have used proper caution
around pedestrians. Cruise recalled its cars to update software after one of them dragged
a pedestrian to the side of a San
Francisco street in early October.

Homebuyers and CEOs looking to relocate always ask the
same thing: “How are the
schools?” Christian nationalist
trustees at Cypress-Fairbanks
ISD, Texas’ third-largest public
school district, just made answering that question awkward
and embarrassing.
Six school board members
voted to ban teachers from
discussing how vaccines saved
millions from polio, smallpox
and COVID. Teachers may no
longer highlight the benefits of
living in the nation’s most culturally diverse region. Nor will
students learn about the threat
posed by climate change, humanity’s biggest challenge
today.
Backtrack along the money
trail to understand why the
board banned instruction from
13 chapters of state-approved
textbooks. There, you’ll find
evangelicals who see political
activism as a form of spiritual
warfare against secularists
who are Satan’s unwitting
accomplices.
The Cy-Fair ringleader, Natalie Kagan Blasingame, has long
rejected the separation of
church and state and advocates
getting Jesus in the classroom.
Her backers go a step further,
insisting that the Bible trumps
the Constitution.
The conservative Cy-Fair
trustees, who voted 6-1 last
week to remove material
deemed controversial by conservative activists, blamed a
budget crisis. They also eliminated 600 positions, including
42 curriculum coaches, dozens
of librarians and 278 teaching
positions, to make up a $138
million deficit for the 2024-25
school year.
None of the conservatives
explained how their ally, Gov.
Greg Abbott, created the shortfall by refusing to increase
school funding until the Legislature approved sending
public money to private, predominantly Christian schools.
Instead, they seized an opportunity to ban ideas they don’t
like, following up on a 2022 ban
on books addressing racial
discrimination and LGBTQ
topics.
The trustees are making
good on campaign promises,
not reacting to a crisis.
Conservatives began their
takeover of the Cy-Fair board
in 2021 with the election of
three Christian fundamentalists. Blasingame, who has long
argued the Constitution does
Tomlinson continues on B12

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 B9

HOUSTON CHRONICLE | HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM

HoustonChronicle.com/Place-Legals

legals@chron.com

713.362.6868
Attn: Vended Meal Companies

TEXAS COMMISSION ON ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

UP Excellence Academy is requesting
vended meal service proposals for the
2024-2025 school year.
Vendors may submit proposals to:
UP Excellence Academy
6220 Westpark Dr. Suite 195
Houston, TX 77057
With electronic copy to info@upexcellenceacademy.org

NOTICE OF RECEIPT OF APPLICATION AND
INTENT TO OBTAIN WATER QUALITY PERMIT
RENEWAL

A mandatory pre-bid meeting and taste
test is scheduled for June 6, 2024 at
10:15am CDT at 330 North Sam Houston
Parkway East, Houston, TX 77060.

PERMIT NO. WQ0001038000
APPLICATION. NRG Texas Power LLC, 910 Louisiana Street, 11th
Floor, Environmental Department, Houston, Texas 77002, which
own(s) a fossil fuel electric power generation station, has applied to
the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to renew
Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) Permit No.
WQ0001038000 (EPA I.D. No. TX0006394) to authorize the discharge
of treated wastewater and stormwater at a volume not to exceed a
daily average flow of 37,000,000 gallons per day, via Outfall 001; treated
wastewater and stormwater on an intermittent and flow-variable basis
via Outfall 002; treated wastewater at a volume not to exceed a daily
average flow of 2,121,000,000 gallons per day via 003; stormwater at a
volume not to exceed a daily average flow of 1,296,000 gallons per day via
Outfall 004; stormwater on an intermittent and flow-variable basis via
Outfall 005; and treated wastewater on an intermittent and flow-variable
basis via 006. The domestic wastewater facility is located at 2500 Y-U
Jones Road, in the city of Thompsons, in Fort Bend County, Texas 77481.
The discharge route is from the plant site via Outfall 001 to Dry Creek
below the spillway of Smithers Lake; via Outfall 002 to an unnamed
tributary of Rabbs Bayou; via Outfalls 003-006 to Smithers Lake, thence
to Dry Creek below the spillway of Smithers Lake via Outfall 001; thence
from all outfalls to Rabbs Bayou, thence to Big Creek, thence to Brazos
River Below Navasota River. TCEQ received this application on March
1, 2024. The permit application will be available for viewing and copying
at Fort Bend County Libraries – George Memorial Library, Reference
Desk, 1001 Golfview Drive, Richmond, Texas prior to the date this notice
is published in the newspaper. This link to an electronic map of the site or
facility's general location is provided as a public courtesy and not part of
the application or notice. For the exact location, refer to the application.

All proposals must be submitted no later
than 12:00pm CDT on June 17, 2024.
Proposals shall be clearly titled RFP –
Vended Meal Contract. Copies of the
RFP may be obtained at https://www.
upexcellenceacademy.org/ or by emailing
info@upexcellenceacademy.org.
IPLHOU0045638

Etoile Academy Charter School requests
bids for special education related services
(Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy
or Speech Therapy) for students. Sealed
Bids may be submitted beginning on
05/10/24. The deadline for submitting
sealed bids is 05/31/2024 at 4:00 P.M. Al
bids must be received at the administrative offices located at 6648 Hornwood Dr.
Houston, TX 77074 prior to the deadline
by hand delivery or mail. E-mail submissions will be accepted. Sealed bids must
be marked “ATTN: Brenda Ward- Director
of Cooperative Special Programs RESPONSE TO RFP #24-001.” NO RESPONSES WILL BE ACCEPTED AFTER
THE DEADLINE. The proposal documents
and general information concerning this
request may be obtained from Etoile
Academy Charter School by emailing
Brenda Ward, Director of Cooperative
Special Programs at bward@etoileacade
my.org or may be examined during business hours at 6648 Hornwood Dr. Houston, TX 77074. All inquiries regarding this
solicitation should be emailed to
bward@etoileacademy.org
Responses will be opened at 8:00 A.M on
06/03/24 at 6648 Hornwood Dr. Houston
TX 77074. The Board of Directors of Etoile
Academy Charter School reserves the
right to reject any and/or all responses, to
waive technicalities, to re-advertise or to
proceed in the best interest of the school.

https://gisweb.tceq.texas.gov/LocationMapper/?marker=-95.634,
29.4808&level=18
ALTERNATIVE LANGUAGE NOTICE. Alternative language notice
in Spanish is available at https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/
wastewater/plain-language-summaries-and-publicnotices. El aviso
de idioma alternativo en español está disponible en https://www.tceq.
texas.gov/permitting/wastewater/plain-language-summaries-andpublicnotices.
ADDITIONAL NOTICE. TCEQ's Executive Director has determined
the application is administratively complete and will conduct a technical
review of the application. After technical review of the application is
complete, the Executive Director may prepare a draft permit and will
issue a preliminary decision on the application. Notice of the Application
and Preliminary Decision will be published and mailed to those who are
on the countywide mailing list and to those who are on the mailing list for
this application. That notice will contain the deadline for submitting public
comments.
PUBLIC COMMENT / PUBLIC MEETING. You may submit public
comments or request a public meeting on this application. The purpose
of a public meeting is to provide the opportunity to submit comments or
to ask questions about the application. TCEQ will hold a public meeting
if the Executive Director determines that there is a significant degree of
public interest in the application or if requested by a local legislator. A
public meeting is not a contested case hearing.

FORMAL BID - will receive request
for proposals 5/22/2024 10:00 AM for:
Vending Machine Services
#24-06-8945R-RFP.
12510 Windfern Rd., Houston 77064
www.cfisd.net/bids

OPPORTUNITY FOR A CONTESTED CASE HEARING. After the
deadline for submitting public comments, the Executive Director will
consider all timely comments and prepare a response to all relevant
and material, or significant public comments. Unless the application is
directly referred for a contested case hearing, the response to comments,
and the Executive Director's decision on the application, will be mailed
to everyone who submitted public comments and to those persons who
are on the mailing list for this application. If comments are received, the
mailing will also provide instructions for requesting reconsideration of
the Executive Director's decision and for requesting a contested case
hearing. A contested case hearing is a legal proceeding similar to a civil
trial in state district court.

Request for Proposal – Houston-Galveston Area Council – Public Services –
Emergency Medical, Safety, and Rescue
Equipment – EE11-24
H-GAC is soliciting responses for selecting qualified manufacturers, dealers, distributors, and service providers for Emergency Medical, Safety, and Rescue Equipment to make these types of products and
services available to Customers of the
HGACBuy Cooperative Purchasing Program under blanket type contracts.

TO REQUEST A CONTESTED CASE HEARING, YOU MUST
INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING ITEMS IN YOUR REQUEST: your
name, address, phone number; applicant's name and proposed permit
number; the location and distance of your property/activities relative to
the proposed facility; a specific description of how you would be adversely
affected by the facility in a way not common to the general public; a
list of all disputed issues of fact that you submit during the comment
period and, the statement “[I/we] request a contested case hearing.”
If the request for contested case hearing is filed on behalf of a group or
association, the request must designate the group's representative for
receiving future correspondence; identify by name and physical address
an individual member of the group who would be adversely affected by
the proposed facility or activity; provide the information discussed above
regarding the affected member's location and distance from the facility
or activity; explain how and why the member would be affected; and
explain how the interests the group seeks to protect are relevant to the
group's purpose.

To view the solicitation documents, visit
https://www.hgacbuy.org/bid-notices.
Response Deadline: June 13, 2024 @
12:00 P.M. CST
ZIMMERMAN PROPERTIES CONSTRUCTION, LLC is now accepting bids from all
Subcontractors to help construct Amber
Ridge Apartments located in Angleton,
TX. Amber Ridge Apartments will be a
Multi-Family housing community consisting of 48 units, 3 buildings, a Clubhouse
and a Maintenance Garage. All interested
bidders, including Minority Business Enterprises, Women’s Business Enterprises
and Section 3 Business Enterprises
should contact Zimmerman Properties
Construction, LLC at the following number: 417-883-1632 or email relliott@wilhoi
tproperties.com.

Following the close of all applicable comment and request periods,
the Executive Director will forward the application and any requests
for reconsideration or for a contested case hearing to the TCEQ
Commissioners for their consideration at a scheduled Commission
meeting.
The Commission may only grant a request for a contested case hearing
on issues the requestor submitted in their timely comments that were not
subsequently withdrawn. If a hearing is granted, the subject of a hearing
will be limited to disputed issues of fact or mixed questions of fact and
law relating to relevant and material water quality concerns submitted
during the comment period.
TCEQ may act on an application to renew a permit for discharge of
wastewater without providing an opportunity for a contested case
hearing if certain criteria are met.
MAILING LIST. If you submit public comments, a request for a
contested case hearing or a reconsideration of the Executive Director's
decision, you will be added to the mailing list for this specific application
to receive future public notices mailed by the Office of the Chief Clerk. In
addition, you may request to be placed on: (1) the permanent mailing list
for a specific applicant name and permit number; and/or (2) the mailing
list for a specific county. If you wish to be placed on the permanent and/
or the county mailing list, clearly specify which list(s) and send your
request to TCEQ Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below.
INFORMATION AVAILABLE ONLINE. For details about the status
of the application, visit the Commissioners' Integrated Database at
www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/cid. Search the database using the permit
number for this application, which is provided at the top of this notice.
AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION. All public comments
and requests must be submitted either electronically at https://www14.
tceq.texas.gov/epic/eComment/, or in writing to the Texas Commission
on Environmental Quality, Office of the Chief Clerk, MC-105, P.O. Box
13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. Please be aware that any contact
information you provide, including your name, phone number, email
address and physical address will become part of the agency's public
record. For more information about this permit application or the
permitting process, please call the TCEQ Public Education Program,
Toll Free, at 1-800-687-4040 or visit their website at www.tceq.texas.
gov/goto/pep. Si desea información en Español, puede llamar al
1-800-687-4040.

COMPETITIVE SEALED BIDS WILL BE RECEIVED BY PROCUREMENT SERVICES,
PORT HOUSTON, UNTIL 11:00 A.M., ON JUNE 12, 2024, FOR THE FOLLOWING:
(CSB-3209) ANNUAL REPLACEMENT OF PERIMETER FENCING PORTWIDE 2024
RESPONDENTS MUST SUBMIT RESPONSES ELECTRONICALLY VIA EMAIL TO:
PROCUREMENTPROPOSALS@PORTHOUSTON.COM
NOTE: PLEASE INCLUDE THE SOLICITATION NUMBER AND THE PROJECT TITLE IN
THE SUBJECT LINE.
SPECIFICATIONS MAY BE OBTAINED FROM PORT HOUSTON’S ePROCUREMENT WEBSITE: https://buyspeed.porthouston.com.
Request for Qualifications – Houston- Galveston Area Council – Human Services – Area Agency on Aging
The Houston-Galveston Area Council’s (H-GAC) Area Agency on Aging is soliciting
contractors to provide the following services for older persons living in the Texas Gulf
Coast area:
- Emergency Response Services HS-AAA-ERS-05-24
- Health Maintenance HS-AAA-HM-05-24
- In-Home Support Services HS-AAA-IHSS-05-24
- Residential Repairs HS-AAA-RESREP-05-24
Responses will be evaluated quarterly; deadlines are as follows: 6/20/24, 9/12/24,
12/12/24 and 3/13/25 @ 12:00 P.M. CST.
To view the solicitation documents, visit https://www.h-gac.com/procurement or
ESBD (txsmartbuy.com).

As managers for this property, we are
going to have an auction on the following
person’s property for nonpayment of rent.
As stated in Chapter 59 of the Texas
Property Code, Tejas Alvin Boat and RV
Storage, located at 1177 FM 517 Alvin TX
77511 phone (832) 287-3191 will hold a
public auction of property being sold to
satisfy a landlord’s lien. Sale will be at
10:00 am, May 29, 2024, at the property’s location. Property will be sold to the
highest bidder for cash. Bidder will be responsible for trash out and cleaning of
the unit. Seller reserves the right to not
accept any bid or withdraw the 2023,erty
for sale. Property in each space will be
contents for: Robert Wyrick – furniture,
boxes, misc. items, shop fan; Erick M.
Padinha – shop fan, furniture, totes, boxes, décor, light fixtures, lumber, misc.

Aldine ISD is accepting proposals until
6/6/2024 at 4 pm for FFA Livestock-Pigs
and Steers. Vendors must submit a proposal by certified mail, courier or email to
bids@aldineisd.org.

Zimmerman Properties Construction, LLC
is an EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
ZIMMERMAN PROPERTIES CONSTRUCTION, LLC is now accepting sealed bids
from all Subcontractors to help with construction on Meadowbrook Plaza Rehab
located in Houston, TX. Meadowbrook
Plaza is a rehab on current property. This
is a Multi-Family housing community consisting of 220 units and 55 buildings,
which includes a Clubhouse/Maintenance
Garage. All interested bidders, including
Minority Business Enterprises, Women’s
Business Enterprises and Section 3 Business Enterprises should contact Zimmerman Properties Construction , LLC at the
following number: 417-883-1632 or Mark
Michael at 417-861-0813 or email relliott@
wilhoitproperties.com.
All subcontractors must register with Zimmerman Properties Construction, LLC
which we will submit to HFC.
Zimmerman Properties Construction, LLC
is an EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Further information may also be obtained from NRG Texas Power
LLC at the address stated above or by calling Mr. James Gay, Senior
Environmental Specialist, at (281) 433-2035.
Issuance Date: April 29, 2024

Legal Notice
Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic
Beverage Commission for a MIXED BEVERAGE
PERMIT by LA PALAPA MEXICAN CAFÉ LLC, to be
located at 10419 VETERANS MEMORIAL HOUSTON
TEXAS 77038. Owner of said corporation is
MARCELINO RODRIGUEZ and GLADYS
RODRIGUEZ.
REQUEST FOR SEALED PROPOSALS – CONSTRUCTION SERVICES
Harris County Emergency Services District No. 10 is requesting sealed proposals
related to the design, construction, erection, and installation of a 60’ free standing
communications tower to be located at Fire Station # 46, at 6930 Cypresswood Point
Ave. Humble, Texas 77338. Proposals must include all information required by the
Request For Proposals which may be obtained from Chief Bryan Harris at Eastex Fire
Department Harris County Emergency Services District No. 10, 14415 Old Humble
Rd., Humble, TX 77396, or via email at bharris@eastexfd.com. Sealed proposals
with the name and address of the proponent, marked “SEALED PROPOSAL - DO
NOT OPEN IN MAIL” shall be submitted to Harris County Emergency Services
District No. 10, ATTN: Chief Bryan Harris, 14415 Old Humble Rd., Humble, TX 77396
by U.S. Mail, common carrier, or personal delivery no later than 10:00 a.m. CST, June
3, 2024. Facsimile or electronic submissions WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. Sealed proposals received by that time and date will be opened at the Eastex Fire
Department Administration building, Harris County Emergency Services District No.
10, located at 14415 Old Humble Rd., Humble, Texas 77396, at 7:00 p.m. on
June 4, 2024, and may be acted upon by the Board. For more information regarding
this request, contact Chief Harris via email at bharris@eastexfd.com, or by phone at
(281) 441-2244.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
CITY COUNCIL
CITY OF NASSAU BAY, TEXAS
Notice is hereby given that on June 10, 2024, at 7:00 pm, the City Council of the City
of Nassau Bay will conduct a public hearing in the Council Chambers, City Hall, 1800
Space Park Dr., Council Chambers, Nassau Bay, Texas, on the following:
A. Public Hearing on request from Ryan Ramey, Cole Valley Partners to consider a
Specific Use Permit for a mobile order pick-up lane for use with the permitted use of
a Chipotle Mexican Grill restaurant and/or to consider a Specific Use Permit for a
drive through for use with the permitted use of a Panda Express restaurant, 1600
Nasa Road 1, Houston, TX 77058 as described as RES A BLK 1 SPACE PARK HOSPITALITY CENTER.
B. Consider and take action on a request from Ryan Ramey, Cole Valley Partners to
consider a Specific Use Permit for a mobile order pick-up lane for use with the permitted use of a Chipotle Mexican Grill restaurant and/or to consider a Specific Use
Permit for a drive through for use with the permitted use of a Panda Express restaurant, 1600 Nasa Road 1, Houston, TX 77058 as described as RES A BLK 1 SPACE
PARK HOSPITALITY CENTER.
At said hearing, all interested parties shall have the right and opportunity to be heard
on the subject. Interested parties may also respond in writing regarding the above
request.
Lacy Belcher
Acting City Secretary
281-333-4211 ext. 6281

Docket No. 56350
The Houston Housing Authority (HHA), is soliciting sealed bids with the intent to
establish a fixed price contract with the lowest responsive and responsible bidder
who can perform all the necessary construction-related work needed to facilitate the
repair of trash chutes at Lyerly Apartments in accordance with the requirements and
terms and conditions specified in Invitation for Bid (IFB) 24-20.
Interested parties are highly encouraged (but not required), to participate in a
Pre-bid Conference that will be held 10 A.M. Central Daylight Time (CDT), May 21,
2024 at Lyerly Senior Apartments, 75 Lyerly St, Houston, Tx 77022 of IFB 24-20
Replacement of Trash Chutes.
Interested parties who wish to respond to this solicitation must submit the
required documents in a sealed envelope by 2 P.M. CDT May 31, 2024 to the
Houston Housing Authority Attn: Katrina Heard, Subject: IFB 24-20 Replacement
of Trash Chutes at Lyerly Apartments - DO NOT OPEN 2640 Fountain View Drive
Houston, Texas 77057.
IFB 24-20 can be obtained by going to the doing business with HHA section of HHA’s
website at www.housingforhouston.com, or by sending an e-mail to HHA’s Procurement Dept. at Purchasing@housingforhouston.com with IFB 24-20 in the subject lin

Notice for Publication
NOTICE OF APPLICATION OF QUADVEST TO AMEND ITS CERTIFICATES OF
CONVENIENCE AND NECESSITY TO PROVIDE WATER AND SEWER UTILITY
SERVICE IN HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS
Quadvest has filed an application with the Public Utility Commission of Texas to
amend its water Certificate of Convenience and Necessity (CCN) No. 11612 and
sewer CCN No. 20952 for the provision of retail water and sewer utility service in
Harris County, Texas.
The requested area overlaps the district boundaries of Coastal Water Authority, Gulf
Coast Authority, Harris County Flood Control District, North Harris County Regional
Water Authority, Port of Houston Authority, and San Jacinto River Authority. If these
districts do not request a public hearing, the Commission shall determine that the
district is consenting to Quadvest’s request to provide retail water and sewer utility
service in the requested area.
The requested area is located approximately 3.9 miles northeast of downtown
Waller, Texas, and is generally bounded on the north by Harris County and Waller
County line; on the east by Binford Road; on the south by Castle Road; and on the
west by the intersection of Castle Road and Stokes Road.
The requested area includes 0 customer connections and approximately
102.2 acres of uncertificated area to amend (add) to Quadvest LP (CCN Nos. 11612
& 20952).
The application proposes the addition of approximately 102.2 acres to CCN Nos.
11612 & 20952.

e.

A copy of the maps showing the requested area are available at: 26926 FM
2978, Magnolia, Texas 77354.

A Fair and Equal Employment Opportunity Agency. For assistance:
Individuals with disabilities may contact the 504/ADA Administrator at 713-2600528, TTY 713-260-0574 or 504ADA@housingforhouston.com

Persons who wish to intervene in the proceeding or comment upon action sought
should contact the Public Utility Commission, P.O. Box 13326, Austin,Texas 787113326, or call the Public Utility Commission at (512) 936-7120 or (888) 782-8477.
Hearing- and speech-impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY) may contact
the commission at (512) 936-7136.The deadline for intervention in the proceeding
is (30 days from the mailing or publication of notice, whichever occurs later, unless
otherwise provided by the presiding officer). You must send a letter requesting
intervention to the commission which is received by that date. The letter must
include the person’s name, address, email address and fax number if applicable.
If a valid public hearing is requested, the Commission will forward the application to
the State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH) for a hearing. If no settlement is
reached and an evidentiary hearing is held, SOAH will submit a recommendation
to the Commission for a final decision. An evidentiary hearing is a legal proceeding
similar to a civil trial in state district court.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS AD

$90.00

*

Contact our team:

legals@chron.com
OR

A landowner with a tract of land at least 25 acres or more, that is partially or wholly
located within the requested area, may file a written request with the Commission to
be excluded from the requested area (“opt out”) within (30) days from the date that
notice was provided by the Utility. All opt out requests must include a large-scale
map, a metes and bounds description of the landowner’s tract of land, landowner’s
name, address, email address and fax number, if applicable.
A landowner that opts out from the requested area releases the applicant’s obligation
to provide retail water or sewer utility service to the removed land for any reason.
Persons who wish to request this option should file the required documents with the:
Public Utility Commission of Texas
Central Records
1701 N. Congress, P. O. Box 13326
Austin, TX 78711-3326
In addition, the landowner must also send a copy of the opt out request to the Utility.
Staff may request additional information regarding your request.
Si desea información en español, puede llamar al 1-888-782-8477.

Visit our 24/7 website to place, anytime:

HoustonChronicle.com/Place-Legals
*Includes first 36 lines and 1 Affidavit of
Publication. $2.00 each additional line.

WE DELIVER YOUR MESSAGE
HoustonChronicle.com/Advertise

B10 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

HOUSTON CHRONICLE | HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM

HoustonChronicle.com/Place-Legals

TEXAS COMMISSION ON ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

NOTICE OF RECEIPT OF APPLICATION AND
INTENT TO OBTAIN WATER QUALITY PERMIT
RENEWAL
PERMIT NO. WQ0005180000
APPLICATION. Airgas USA, LLC, 2530 Server Road, Suite 300,
Lawernceville, Georgia 30043, which own(s) a dry ice and liquified
C02 manufacturing facility, has applied to the Texas Commission on
Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to renew Texas Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (TPDES) Permit No. WQ0005180000 (EPA I.D.
No. TX0136638) to authorize the discharge of treated wastewater at a
volume not to exceed a daily average flow of 10,000 gallons per day. The
wastewater treatment facility is located at 11900 Strang Road, in the
city of La Porte, in Harris County, Texas 77571. The discharge route is
from the plant site to an unnamed ditch, thence to Harris County Flood
Control District ditch. TCEQ received this application on February 20,
2024. The permit application will be available for viewing and copying
at La Porte Branch Library, 600 South Broadway Street, La Porte, in
Texas prior to the date this notice is published in the newspaper. This link
to an electronic map of the site or facility's general location is provided as
a public courtesy and not part of the application or notice. For the exact
location, refer to the application.
https://gisweb.tceq.texas.gov/LocationMapper/?marker=-95.049444,
29.700555&level=18
ALTERNATIVE LANGUAGE NOTICE. Alternative language notice
in Spanish is available at https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/
wastewater/plain-language-summaries-and-publicnotices. El aviso
de idioma alternativo en español está disponible en https://www.tceq.
texas.gov/permitting/wastewater/plain-language-summaries-andpublicnotices.
ADDITIONAL NOTICE. TCEQ's Executive Director has determined
the application is administratively complete and will conduct a technical
review of the application. After technical review of the application is
complete, the Executive Director may prepare a draft permit and will
issue a preliminary decision on the application. Notice of the Application
and Preliminary Decision will be published and mailed to those who are
on the countywide mailing list and to those who are on the mailing list for
this application. That notice will contain the deadline for submitting public
comments.
PUBLIC COMMENT / PUBLIC MEETING. You may submit public
comments or request a public meeting on this application. The purpose
of a public meeting is to provide the opportunity to submit comments or
to ask questions about the application. TCEQ will hold a public meeting
if the Executive Director determines that there is a significant degree of
public interest in the application or if requested by a local legislator. A
public meeting is not a contested case hearing.
OPPORTUNITY FOR A CONTESTED CASE HEARING. After the
deadline for submitting public comments, the Executive Director will
consider all timely comments and prepare a response to all relevant
and material, or significant public comments. Unless the application is
directly referred for a contested case hearing, the response to comments,
and the Executive Director's decision on the application, will be mailed
to everyone who submitted public comments and to those persons who
are on the mailing list for this application. If comments are received, the
mailing will also provide instructions for requesting reconsideration of
the Executive Director's decision and for requesting a contested case
hearing. A contested case hearing is a legal proceeding similar to a civil
trial in state district court.
TO REQUEST A CONTESTED CASE HEARING, YOU MUST
INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING ITEMS IN YOUR REQUEST: your
name, address, phone number; applicant's name and proposed permit
number; the location and distance of your property/activities relative to
the proposed facility; a specific description of how you would be adversely
affected by the facility in a way not common to the general public; a
list of all disputed issues of fact that you submit during the comment
period and, the statement “[I/we] request a contested case hearing.”
If the request for contested case hearing is filed on behalf of a group or
association, the request must designate the group's representative for
receiving future correspondence; identify by name and physical address
an individual member of the group who would be adversely affected by
the proposed facility or activity; provide the information discussed above
regarding the affected member's location and distance from the facility
or activity; explain how and why the member would be affected; and
explain how the interests the group seeks to protect are relevant to the
group's purpose.
Following the close of all applicable comment and request periods,
the Executive Director will forward the application and any requests
for reconsideration or for a contested case hearing to the TCEQ
Commissioners for their consideration at a scheduled Commission
meeting.

legals@chron.com

Texas Commission on environmenTal QualiTy

NOTICE OF RECEIPT OF APPLICATION AND
INTENT TO OBTAIN WATER QUALITY PERMIT AMENDMENT

APPLICATION. Porter Municipal Utility District, P.O. Box 1030, Porter,
Texas 77365, has applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental
Quality (TCEQ) to amend Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination
System (TPDES) Permit No. WQ0012242001 (EPA I.D. No. TX0084042)
to authorize an increase in the discharge of treated wastewater to a
volume not to exceed an annual average flow of 6,000,000 gallons per
day. The domestic wastewater facility is located at 24816 Cunningham
Drive, Porter, in Montgomery County, Texas 77365. The discharge
route is from the plant site to an unnamed tributary; thence to Bens
Branch; thence to Lake Houston. TCEQ received this application on
February 26, 2024. The permit application will be available for viewing
and copying at Porter Municipal Utility District Office, 23922 Loop 494,
Porter, Texas, prior to the date this notice is published in the newspaper.
This link to an electronic map of the site or facility’s general location is
provided as a public courtesy and not part of the application or notice.
For the exact location, refer to the application. https://gisweb.tceq.
texas.gov/LocationMapper/?marker=-95.22806,30.08556&level=18
ALTERNATIVE LANGUAGE NOTICE. Alternative language notice
in Spanish is available at https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/
wastewater/plain-language-summaries-and-public-notices. El aviso
de idioma alternativo en español está disponible en https://www.tceq.
texas.gov/permitting/wastewater/plain-language-summaries-andpublic-notices.
ADDITIONAL NOTICE. TCEQ’s Executive Director has determined
the application is administratively complete and will conduct a
technical review of the application. After technical review of the
application is complete, the Executive Director may prepare a draft
permit and will issue a preliminary decision on the application. Notice
of the Application and Preliminary Decision will be published and
mailed to those who are on the county-wide mailing list and to those
who are on the mailing list for this application. That notice will contain
the deadline for submitting public comments.
PUBLIC COMMENT / PUBLIC MEETING. You may submit public
comments or request a public meeting on this application. The purpose
of a public meeting is to provide the opportunity to submit comments or
to ask questions about the application. TCEQ will hold a public meeting
if the Executive Director determines that there is a significant degree
of public interest in the application or if requested by a local legislator.
A public meeting is not a contested case hearing.
OPPORTUNITY FOR A CONTESTED CASE HEARING. After the
deadline for submitting public comments, the Executive Director will
consider all timely comments and prepare a response to all relevant
and material, or significant public comments. Unless the application
is directly referred for a contested case hearing, the response to
comments, and the Executive Director’s decision on the application,
will be mailed to everyone who submitted public comments and
to those persons who are on the mailing list for this application. If
comments are received, the mailing will also provide instructions for
requesting reconsideration of the Executive Director’s decision and for
requesting a contested case hearing. A contested case hearing is a legal
proceeding similar to a civil trial in state district court.
TO REQUEST A CONTESTED CASE HEARING, YOU MUST
INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING ITEMS IN YOUR REQUEST: your
name, address, phone number; applicant’s name and proposed permit
number; the location and distance of your property/activities relative
to the proposed facility; a specific description of how you would be
adversely affected by the facility in a way not common to the general
public; a list of all disputed issues of fact that you submit during the
comment period and, the statement “[I/we] request a contested case
hearing.” If the request for contested case hearing is filed on behalf
of a group or association, the request must designate the group’s
representative for receiving future correspondence; identify by name
and physical address an individual member of the group who would
be adversely affected by the proposed facility or activity; provide the
information discussed above regarding the affected member’s location
and distance from the facility or activity; explain how and why the
member would be affected; and explain how the interests the group
seeks to protect are relevant to the group’s purpose.
Following the close of all applicable comment and request periods,
the Executive Director will forward the application and any requests
for reconsideration or for a contested case hearing to the TCEQ
Commissioners for their consideration at a scheduled Commission
meeting.
The Commission may only grant a request for a contested case hearing
on issues the requestor submitted in their timely comments that were
not subsequently withdrawn. If a hearing is granted, the subject of a
hearing will be limited to disputed issues of fact or mixed questions of
fact and law relating to relevant and material water quality concerns
submitted during the comment period.

TCEQ may act on an application to renew a permit for discharge of
wastewater without providing an opportunity for a contested case
hearing if certain criteria are met.

MAILING LIST. If you submit public comments, a request for a
contested case hearing or a reconsideration of the Executive Director’s
decision, you will be added to the mailing list for this specific application
to receive future public notices mailed by the Office of the Chief Clerk.
In addition, you may request to be placed on: (1) the permanent
mailing list for a specific applicant name and permit number; and/or
(2) the mailing list for a specific county. If you wish to be placed on the
permanent and/or the county mailing list, clearly specify which list(s)
and send your request to TCEQ Office of the Chief Clerk at the address
below.

INFORMATION AVAILABLE ONLINE. For details about the status
of the application, visit the Commissioners' Integrated Database at
www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/cid. Search the database using the permit
number for this application, which is provided at the top of this notice.
AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION. All public comments
and requests must be submitted either electronically at https://www14.
tceq.texas.gov/epic/eComment/, or in writing to the Texas Commission
on Environmental Quality, Office of the Chief Clerk, MC-105, P.O. Box
13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. Please be aware that any contact
information you provide, including your name, phone number, email
address and physical address will become part of the agency's public
record. For more information about this permit application or the
permitting process, please call the TCEQ Public Education Program,
Toll Free, at 1-800-687-4040 or visit their website at www.tceq.texas.
gov/goto/pep. Si desea información en Español, puede llamar al
1-800-687-4040.

INFORMATION AVAILABLE ONLINE. For details about the status
of the application, visit the Commissioners’ Integrated Database at
www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/cid. Search the database using the permit
number for this application, which is provided at the top of this notice.
AGENCY
CONTACTS
AND
INFORMATION.
All
public
comments and requests must be submitted either electronically at
https://www14.tceq.texas.gov/epic/eComment/, or in writing to
the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Office of the Chief
Clerk, MC-105, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. Please be
aware that any contact information you provide, including your name,
phone number, email address and physical address will become part
of the agency’s public record. For more information about this permit
application or the permitting process, please call the TCEQ Public
Education Program, Toll Free, at 1-800-687-4040 or visit their website
at www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/pep. Si desea información en Español,
puede llamar al 1-800-687-4040.

Further information may also be obtained from Airgas USA, LLC at the
address stated above or by calling Mr. Ronald McCann, Maintenance
Manager, at (713) 817-0648.

Further information may also be obtained from Porter Municipal
Utility District at the address stated above or by calling
Mr. Ron Young, Attorney for the District, Young & Brooks, at
713-951-0800.

Issuance Date: April 17, 2024

Issuance Date: April 30, 2024

CAUSE NO.: 202361351
PLAINTIFF: HERRERA, ANTOINETTE
(INDIVIDUALLY AND AS NEXT
FRIEND OF MS) (MINOR)

IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF

vs.

HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS

61st JUDICIAL DISTRICT

DEFENDANT: MONTOYA-GANDARA, MARIA ISABEL
THE STATE OF TEXAS
County of Harris
TO: MONTOYA, SERGIO
7575 OFFICE CITY DRIVE #2213
HOUSTON TX 77012

CITATION

Celebrate Your
Anniversary!

Attached is a copy of PLAINTIFF’S ORIGINAL PETITION.
This instrument was filed on September 11, 2023, in the above numbered and styled
cause on the docket in the above Judicial District Court of Harris County, Texas, in
the courthouse in the City of Houston, Texas. The instrument attached describes the
claim against you.
YOU HAVE BEEN SUED. You may employ an attorney. If you or your attorney do
not file a written answer with the District Clerk who issued this citation by 10:00 a.m.
on the Monday next following the expiration of twenty days after you were served this
citation and petition, a default judgment may be taken against you. In addition to filing a written answer with the clerk, you may be required to make initial disclosures
to the other parties of this suit. These disclosures generally must be made no later
than 30 days after you file your answer with the clerk. Find out more at
TexasLawHelp.org.
ISSUED AND GIVEN UNDER MY HAND and seal of said Court, at Houston, Texas,
this September 12, 2023.

AMENDMENT
PERMIT NO. WQ0002107000
APPLICATION AND PRELIMINARY DECISION. Braskem America,
Inc., 8811 Strang Road, La Porte, Texas 77571, which operates
the Braskem America La Porte Plant, a plastics manufacturing
plant which produces polypropylene homopolymer and copolymer
(ethylene and propylene), has applied to the Texas Commission on
Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for a major amendment of Texas
Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) Permit No.
WQ0002107000 to increase Outfall 001’s daily average flow to 850,000
gallons per day (gpd) and daily maximum flow to 1,300,000 gpd; add
a stormwater Outfall 004; and add two existing raw water ponds that
hold sludge from the clarifer used to separate solids from the intake
water received from the City of Houston. Decanted water from these
ponds go to Holding Ponds and water evaporates from the solids which
are removed for disposal in an offsite landfill. Also in this amendment,
references to Siluria’s operations were deleted because that entity no
longer operates at this site. The draft permit authorizes the discharge
of process wastewater, domestic sewage, utility wastewater, process
area stormwater, and non-process area stormwater at a daily
average flow not to exceed 850,000 gallons per day via Outfall 001;
non-process area stormwater on an intermittent and flow-variable
basis via Outfalls 002 and 004; and process area and non-process area
stormwater on an intermittent and flow-variable basis via Outfall 003.
The TCEQ received this application on August 31, 2023.
The facility is located at 8811 Strang Road, northwest of the City of La
Porte, Harris County, Texas 77571. This link to an electronic map of
the site or facility’s general location is provided as a public courtesy
and is not part of the application or notice. For the exact location,
refer
to
the
application.
https://gisweb.tceq.texas.gov/
LocationMapper/?marker=-95.079166,29.706388&level=18
The effluent is discharged via Outfalls 001, 002, 003 and 004 to a
drainage ditch, thence to San Jacinto Bay in Segment No. 2427 of
the Bays and Estuaries. The unclassified receiving water uses are
minimal aquatic life use for the drainage ditch (non-tidal) and high
aquatic life use for the drainage ditch (tidal). The designated uses for
Segment No. 2427 are primary contact recreation and high aquatic
life use.
In accordance with Title 30 Texas Administrative Code Section 307.5
and TCEQ’s Procedures to Implement the Texas Surface Water
Quality Standards (June 2010), an antidegradation review of the
receiving waters was performed. A Tier 1 antidegradation review
has preliminarily determined that existing water quality uses will
not be impaired by this permit action. Numerical and narrative
criteria to protect existing uses will be maintained. A Tier 2 review
has preliminarily determined that no significant degradation of water
quality is expected in drainage ditch (tidal), which has been identified
as having high aquatic life use. Existing uses will be maintained and
protected. The preliminary determination can be reexamined and
may be modified if new information is received.
The TCEQ Executive Director reviewed this action for consistency
with the Texas Coastal Management Program (CMP) goals and
policies in accordance with the regulations of the General Land Office
and has determined that the action is consistent with the applicable
CMP goals and policies.
The TCEQ Executive Director has completed the technical review
of the application and prepared a draft permit. The draft permit, if
approved, would establish the conditions under which the facility
must operate. The Executive Director has made a preliminary
decision that this permit, if issued, meets all statutory and regulatory
requirements. The permit application, Executive Director’s
preliminary decision, and draft permit are available for viewing and
copying at the La Porte Library, shelves on the 1st floor, 600 South
Broadway Street, La Porte, Texas.
ALTERNATIVE LANGUAGE NOTICE. Alternative language notice
in Spanish is available at https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/
wastewater/plain-language-summaries-and-public-notices.
El aviso de idioma alternativo en español está disponible en
https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/wastewater/plainlanguage-summaries-and-public-notices.
PUBLIC COMMENT / PUBLIC MEETING. You may submit public
comments or request a public meeting about this application. The
purpose of a public meeting is to provide the opportunity to submit
written or oral comment or to ask questions about the application.
Generally, the TCEQ will hold a public meeting if the Executive
Director determines that there is a significant degree of public interest
in the application or if requested by a local legislator. A public meeting
is not a contested case hearing.
OPPORTUNITY FOR A CONTESTED CASE HEARING. After the
deadline for public comments, the Executive Director will consider
the comments and prepare a response to all relevant and material, or
significant public comments. The response to comments, along with
the Executive Director’s decision on the application, will be mailed
to everyone who submitted public comments or who requested to
be on a mailing list for this application. If comments are received,
the mailing will also provide instructions for requesting a contested
case hearing or reconsideration of the Executive Director’s decision.
A contested case hearing is a legal proceeding similar to a civil trial in
a state district court.
TO REQUEST A CONTESTED CASE HEARING, YOU MUST
INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING ITEMS IN YOUR REQUEST: your
name, address, phone number; applicant’s name and proposed permit
number; the location and distance of your property/activities relative
to the proposed facility; a specific description of how you would be
adversely affected by the facility in a way not common to the general
public; a list of all disputed issues of fact that you submit during the
comment period; and the statement “[I/we] request a contested case
hearing.” If the request for contested case hearing is filed on behalf
of a group or association, the request must designate the group’s
representative for receiving future correspondence; identify by name
and physical address an individual member of the group who would
be adversely affected by the proposed facility or activity; provide the
information discussed above regarding the affected member’s location
and distance from the facility or activity; explain how and why the
member would be affected; and explain how the interests the group
seeks to protect are relevant to the group’s purpose.
Following the close of all applicable comment and request periods,
the Executive Director will forward the application and any requests
for reconsideration or for a contested case hearing to the TCEQ
Commissioners for their consideration at a scheduled Commission
meeting.
The Commission may only grant a request for a contested case hearing
on issues the requestor submitted in their timely comments that were
not subsequently withdrawn. If a hearing is granted, the subject of a
hearing will be limited to disputed issues of fact or mixed questions of
fact and law relating to relevant and material water quality concerns
submitted during the comment period.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ACTION. The Executive Director may
issue final approval of the application unless a timely contested case
hearing request or a timely request for reconsideration is filed. If a
timely hearing request or request for reconsideration is filed, the
Executive Director will not issue final approval of the permit and will
forward the application and requests to the TCEQ Commissioners for
their consideration at a scheduled Commission meeting.
MAILING LIST. If you submit public comments, a request for a
contested case hearing or a reconsideration of the Executive Director’s
decision, you will be added to the mailing list for this specific application
to receive future public notices mailed by the Office of the Chief Clerk.
In addition, you may request to be added to: (1) the permanent list for
a specific applicant name and permit number; and (2) the mailing list
for a specific county. If you wish to be placed on the permanent and the
county mailing list, clearly specify which list(s) and send your request
to TCEQ Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below.

INFORMATION AVAILABLE ONLINE. For details about the status
of the application, visit the Commissioners’ Integrated Database at
https://www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/cid/. Search the database using
the permit number for this application, which is provided at the top
of this notice.

/s/ Marilyn Burgess
, District Clerk
Harris County, Texas
201 Caroline, Houston, Texas 77002

Issued at request of:
TYLKA, LAWRENCE M.
1104 EAST MAIN STREET LEAGUE CITY, TX 7
7573-0000 281-557-1500
Bar Number: 20359800

NOTICE OF APPLICATION AND PRELIMINARY DECISION
FOR TPDES PERMIT FOR INDUSTRIAL WASTEWATER

All written public comments and public meeting requests must be
submitted to the Office of the Chief Clerk, MC 105, TCEQ, P.O. Box
13087, Austin, TX 78711-3087 or electronically at https://www.tceq.
texas.gov/goto/comment/ within 30 days from the date of newspaper
publication of this notice.

(Seal)

Generated By: WANDA CHAMBERS

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

PERMIT NO. WQ0012242001

The Commission may only grant a request for a contested case hearing
on issues the requestor submitted in their timely comments that were not
subsequently withdrawn. If a hearing is granted, the subject of a hearing
will be limited to disputed issues of fact or mixed questions of fact and
law relating to relevant and material water quality concerns submitted
during the comment period.

MAILING LIST. If you submit public comments, a request for a
contested case hearing or a reconsideration of the Executive Director's
decision, you will be added to the mailing list for this specific application
to receive future public notices mailed by the Office of the Chief Clerk. In
addition, you may request to be placed on: (1) the permanent mailing list
for a specific applicant name and permit number; and/or (2) the mailing
list for a specific county. If you wish to be placed on the permanent and/
or the county mailing list, clearly specify which list(s) and send your
request to TCEQ Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below.

713.362.6868

Did you know Paper is the
traditional gift for a 1st
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AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION. Public comments
and requests must be submitted either electronically at
https://www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/comment/ or in writing to
the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Office of the
Chief Clerk, MC-105, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087.
Please be aware that any contact information you provide,
including your name, phone number, email address, and physical
address will become part of the agency’s public record. For more
information about this permit application or the permitting process,
please call the TCEQ Public Education Program, toll free, at
1-800-687-4040 or visit their website at https://www.tceq.texas.gov/
agency/decisions/participation/permitting-participation. Si desea
información en Español, puede llamar al 1-800-687-4040.
Further information may also be obtained from Braskem America,
Inc. at the address stated above or by calling Mr. Clint Penrose,
Environmental Lead, at 281-930-2676.
Issued: April 10, 2024

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WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 B11

HOUSTON CHRONICLE | HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM

Google rolls out retooled AI web searches
By Michael Liedtke
A SS O CIAT E D PRE SS

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. —
Google on Tuesday rolled out a
retooled search engine that will
frequently favor responses
crafted by artificial intelligence
over website links, a shift promising to quicken the quest for information while also potentially
disrupting the flow of moneymaking internet traffic.
The makeover announced at
Google’s annual developers conference will begin this week in
the U.S. when hundreds of millions of people will start to periodically see conversational
summaries generated by the
company’s AI technology at the
top of the search engine’s results
page.
The AI overviews are supposed to only crop up when
Google’s technology determines
they will be the quickest and
most effective way to satisfy a
user’s curiosity — a solution
mostly likely to happen with
complex subjects or when people are brainstorming, or planning. People will likely still see
Google’s traditional website
links and ads for simple search-

es for things like a store recommendation or weather forecasts.
Google began testing AI overviews with a small subset of selected users a year ago, but the
company is now making it one
of the staples in its search results in the U.S. before introducing the feature in other parts of
the world. By the end of the year,
Google expects the recurring AI
overviews to be part of its search
results for about 1 billion people.
Besides infusing more AI into
its dominant search engine,
Google also used the packed
conference held at a Mountain
View, Calif., amphitheater near
its headquarters to showcase
advances in a technology that is
reshaping business and society.
The next AI steps included
more sophisticated analysis
powered by Gemini — a technology unveiled five months ago
— and smarter assistants, or
“agents,” including a still-nascent version dubbed “Astra”
that will be able to understand,
explain and remember things it
is shown through a smartphone’s camera lens. Google underscored its commitment to AI
by bringing in Demis Hassabis,
the executive who oversees the

technology, to appear on stage at
its marquee conference for the
first time.
The injection of more AI into
Google’s search engine marks
one of the most dramatic changes that the company has made in
its foundation since its inception in the late 1990s. It’s a move
that opens the door for more
growth and innovation but also
threatens to trigger a sea change
in web surfing habits.
“This bold and responsible
approach is fundamental to delivering on our mission and
making AI more helpful for everyone,” Google CEO Sundar
Pichai told a group of reporters.
Well aware of how much attention is centered on the technology, Pichai ended a nearly
two-hour succession of presentations by asking Google’s Gemini model how many times AI
had been mentioned. The count:
120, and then the tally edged up
by one more when Pichai said,
“AI,” yet again.
The increased AI emphasis
will bring new risks to an internet ecosystem that depends
heavily on digital advertising as
its financial lifeblood.
Google stands to suffer if the

HoustonChronicle.com/Place-Legals

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
COMBINED
NOTICE OF RECEIPT OF APPLICATION AND
INTENT TO OBTAIN WATER QUALITY PERMIT (NORI)
AND
NOTICE OF APPLICATION AND PRELIMINARY DECISION
FOR TPDES PERMIT FOR MUNICIPAL WASTEWATER
RENEWAL
PERMIT NO. WQ0015433001
APPLICATION AND PRELIMINARY DECISION. Fort Bend County
Municipal Utility District No. 220, 1300 Post Oak Boulevard, Suite
2400, Houston, Texas 77056, has applied to the Texas Commission
on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for a renewal of Texas Pollutant
Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) Permit No. WQ0015433001,
which authorizes the discharge of treated domestic wastewater at a
daily average flow not to exceed 200,000 gallons per day. TCEQ received
this application on September 12, 2023.
This combined notice is being issued to correct the address that was
included in the NORI for the location where the permit documents are
available for viewing and copying.
The facility is located approximately 0.9 mile west of the intersection of
Hunt Road and Farmto-Market Road 359, in Fort Bend County, Texas
77423. The treated effluent is discharged to Brookshire Creek, thence to
Bessies Creek, thence to Brazos River Below Navasota River in Segment
No. 1202 of the Brazos River Basin. The unclassified receiving water use
is high aquatic life use for Brookshire Creek and Bessies Creek. The
designated uses for Segment No. 1202 are primary contact recreation,
public water supply, and high aquatic life use. All determinations are
preliminary and subject to additional review and/or revisions. This link
to an electronic map of the site or facility's general location is provided
as a public courtesy and is not part of the application or notice. For the
exact location, refer to the application.
https://gisweb.tceq.texas.gov/LocationMapper/?marker=-95.94,29.
7225&level=18
The TCEQ Executive Director has completed the technical review of the
application and prepared a draft permit. The draft permit, if approved,
would establish the conditions under which the facility must operate. The
Executive Director has made a preliminary decision that this permit,
if issued, meets all statutory and regulatory requirements. The permit
application, Executive Director's preliminary decision, and draft permit
are available for viewing and copying at Bob Lutts Fulshear/Simonton
Branch Library, 8100 Farm-to-Market Road 359 South, Fulshear,
Texas.
ALTERNATIVE LANGUAGE NOTICE. Alternative language notice
in Spanish is available at https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/
wastewater/plain-language-summaries-and-publicnotices. El aviso
de idioma alternativo en español está disponible en https://www.tceq.
texas.gov/permitting/wastewater/plain-language-summaries-andpublicnotices.
PUBLIC COMMENT / PUBLIC MEETING. You may submit public
comments or request a public meeting about this application. The
purpose of a public meeting is to provide the opportunity to submit
comments or to ask questions about the application. TCEQ holds a public
meeting if the Executive Director determines that there is a significant
degree of public interest in the application or if requested by a local
legislator. A public meeting is not a contested case hearing.
OPPORTUNITY FOR A CONTESTED CASE HEARING. After the
deadline for submitting public comments, the Executive Director will
consider all timely comments and prepare a response to all relevant
and material, or significant public comments. Unless the application is
directly referred for a contested case hearing, the response to comments
will be mailed to everyone who submitted public comments and to those
persons who are on the mailing list for this application. If comments
are received, the mailing will also provide instructions for requesting a
contested case hearing or reconsideration of the Executive Director's
decision. A contested case hearing is a legal proceeding similar to a civil
trial in a state district court.
TO REQUEST A CONTESTED CASE HEARING, YOU MUST
INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING ITEMS IN YOUR REQUEST: your
name, address, phone number; applicant's name and proposed permit
number; the location and distance of your property/activities relative to
the proposed facility; a specific description of how you would be adversely
affected by the facility in a way not common to the general public; a
list of all disputed issues of fact that you submit during the comment
period; and the statement “[I/we] request a contested case hearing.”
If the request for contested case hearing is filed on behalf of a group or
association, the request must designate the group's representative for
receiving future correspondence; identify by name and physical address
an individual member of the group who would be adversely affected by
the proposed facility or activity; provide the information discussed above
regarding the affected member's location and distance from the facility
or activity; explain how and why the member would be affected; and
explain how the interests the group seeks to protect are relevant to the
group's purpose.
Following the close of all applicable comment and request periods,
the Executive Director will forward the application and any requests
for reconsideration or for a contested case hearing to the TCEQ
Commissioners for their consideration at a scheduled Commission
meeting.
The Commission may only grant a request for a contested case hearing
on issues the requestor submitted in their timely comments that were not
subsequently withdrawn. If a hearing is granted, the subject of a hearing
will be limited to disputed issues of fact or mixed questions of fact and
law relating to relevant and material water quality concerns submitted
during the comment period. TCEQ may act on an application to renew a
permit for discharge of wastewater without providing an opportunity for
a contested case hearing if certain criteria are met.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ACTION. The Executive Director may
issue final approval of the application unless a timely contested case
hearing request or request for reconsideration is filed. If a timely hearing
request or request for reconsideration is filed, the Executive Director
will not issue final approval of the permit and will forward the application
and request to the TCEQ Commissioners for their consideration at a
scheduled Commission meeting.
MAILING LIST. If you submit public comments, a request for a
contested case hearing or a reconsideration of the Executive Director's
decision, you will be added to the mailing list for this specific application
to receive future public notices mailed by the Office of the Chief Clerk. In
addition, you may request to be placed on: (1) the permanent mailing list
for a specific applicant name and permit number; and/or (2) the mailing
list for a specific county. If you wish to be placed on the permanent and/
or the county mailing list, clearly specify which list(s) and send your
request to TCEQ Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below.
All written public comments and public meeting requests must be
submitted to the Office of the Chief Clerk, MC 105, Texas Commission
on Environmental Quality, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, TX 78711-3087 or
electronically at www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/comment within 30 days
from the date of newspaper publication of this notice.
INFORMATION AVAILABLE ONLINE. For details about the status
of the application, visit the Commissioners' Integrated Database at
www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/cid. Search the database using the permit
number for this application, which is provided at the top of this notice.
AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION. Public comments
and requests must be submitted either electronically at www.tceq.
texas.gov/goto/comment, or in writing to the Texas Commission on
Environmental Quality, Office of the Chief Clerk, MC 105, P.O. Box
13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. Any personal information you submit
to the TCEQ will become part of the agency's record; this includes email
addresses. For more information about this permit application or the
permitting process, please call the TCEQ Public Education Program,
Toll Free, at 1-800-687-4040 or visit their website at www.tceq.texas.
gov/goto/pep. Si desea información en Español, puede llamar al
1-800-687-4040.
Further information may also be obtained from Fort Bend County
Municipal Utility District No. 220 at the address stated above or by calling
Mr. Jonathan Nguyen, Quiddity Engineering, at 512-685-5156.
Issuance Date: May 13, 2024

AI overviews undercuts ads
tied to its search engine — a
business that reeled in $175 billion in revenue last year alone.
And website publishers — ranging from major media outlets to
entrepreneurs and startups that
focus on more narrow subjects
— will be hurt if the AI overviews are so informative that
they result in fewer clicks on the
website links that will still appear lower on the results page.
Based on habits that emerged
during the past year’s testing
phase of Google’s AI overviews,
about 25% of the traffic could be
negatively affected by the deemphasis on website links, said
Marc McCollum, chief innovation officer at Raptive, which
helps about 5,000 website publishers make money from their
content.
A decline in traffic of that
magnitude could translate into
billions of dollars in lost ad revenue, a devastating blow that
would be delivered by a form of
AI technology that culls information plucked from many of
the websites that stand to lose
revenue.
“The relationship between
Google and publishers has been

legals@chron.com

pretty symbiotic, but enter AI,
and what has essentially happened is the Big Tech companies
have taken this creative content
and used it to train their AI
models,” McCollum said. “We
are now seeing that being used
for their own commercial purposes in what is effectively a
transfer of wealth from small,
independent businesses to Big
Tech.”
But Google found the AI
overviews resulted in people in
conducting even more searches
during the technology’s testing
“because they suddenly can ask
questions that were too hard before,” said Liz Reid, who oversees the company’s search operations, told the Associated
Press during an interview. She
declined to provide any specific
numbers about link-clicking
volume during the tests of AI
overviews.
“In reality, people do want to
click to the web, even when they
have an AI overview,” Reid said.
“They start with the AI overview and then they want to dig
in deeper. We will continue to
innovate on the AI overview
and also on how do we send the
most useful traffic to the web.”

713.362.6868

B12 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

HOUSTON CHRONICLE | HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM

TOMLINSON
From page B8
not require the separation of
church and public schools, was
backed by Recover America, a
group dedicated to electing
Christians to school boards
and led by Rick Scarborough, a
prominent Christian nationalist.
Christian conservatives celebrated again this past November when their candidates won
three more seats. Those candidates were financially backed
by Texans for Educational
Freedom and Cy-Fair for Liberty Political Action Committee,
which calls “for public schools
to end all teaching of immoral
and anti-American values.”
The political activists behind
these PACs are part of a coalition of Christian nationalist
groups called the Remnant
Alliance. The Texas Observer, a
nonprofit news site, recently
investigated the financial and
political ties between a dozen
alliance members and hundreds of member churches.
The alliance’s vision is “to
see the body of Christ awaken
across our republic, exercise
their leadership role to influence others for God, and in
turn, restore the Judeo-Christian foundations that brought
America’s great blessings and
welfare,” the group’s website
says.
A key strategy for obscuring
connections between local

Jon Shapley/Staff file photo

Cypress-Fairbanks ISD Trustee Natalie Kagan Blasingame, second from left, advocates for Christ in
the classroom. A Christian nationalist wave targets vaccines, diversity and climate change.

candidates and state and national activists is to create a
separate PAC for each school
district, such as Cy-Fair for
Liberty. Dozens of these groups
have backed 105 candidates in
35 districts who believe Christians should hold every leadership position and prioritize a
biblical world view, the Observer’s Steve Monacelli report-

ed.
National groups play a critical role in developing strategy
and ideology, though, including
Turning Point USA. Founder
Charlie Kirk has smeared Martin Luther King, made racist
comments, demeaned immigrants, pushed ridiculous conspiracy theories and has become a key ally of former Pres-

HoustonChronicle.com/Place-Legals

Texas Commission on environmenTal QualiTy

ident Donald Trump.
A consistent conservative
campaign theme is old-fashioned gay bashing. They start
by banning drag performers
from reading books to children, then clear library shelves
of LGBTQ materials. They
make baseless accusations that
defenders of LGBTQ rights are
perverts and pedophiles.

legals@chron.com

Hard-right groups have
successfully mobilized their
voters in low-turnout elections,
particularly those held in May
or odd-numbered years. This is
how democracy is supposed to
work. If you win a majority of
votes, no matter how few, you
get to implement your plan.
Christian nationalists have
also lost elections. This month,
voters in North East ISD in
San Antonio rejected all five
conservative candidates. Voters
even ousted a well-known
incumbent, thanks to the district employee’s union and a
PAC called Bexar County
Champions for Public Education.
The culture war between
conservatives demanding conformity to their world view and
secularists espousing individual liberty to live freely will
define the 2024 elections. Voters must not forget, though,
that culture has economic consequences too.
Our economy thrives on
immigration, innovation, diversity and free thinking; turning Texas into Margaret Atwood’s Republic of Gilead will
only squelch what makes our
society thrive.
Award-winning opinion writer
Chris Tomlinson writes commentary about money, politics
and life in Texas. Sign up for his
“Tomlinson’s Take” newsletter at
houstonhchronicle.com/tomlinsonnewsletter or expressnews.com/tomlinsonnewsletter.

713.362.6868
CAUSE NO: 2024-09819
IN THE 190TH JUDICIAL
DISTRICT COURT OF
HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS

NOTICE OF RECEIPT OF APPLICATION AND
INTENT TO OBTAIN WATER QUALITY PERMIT
AMENDMENT
PERMIT NO. WQ0014799001
APPLICATION. Harris County Municipal Utility District No. 477, c/o
ABHR, 3200 Southwest Freeway, Suite 2600, Houston, Texas 77027, has
applied to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to
amend Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) Permit
No. WQ0014799001 (EPA I.D. No. TX0129577) to authorize an increase in
the discharge of treated wastewater at a volume not exceed an annual
average flow of 2,000,000 gallons per day and the addition of two outfalls.
The domestic wastewater treatment facility is located approximately
1.0 mile southeast of the intersection of Betka Road and U.S. Highway
290, in Harris County, Texas 77447. The discharge route is from the plant
site via outfall 001 via pipe to detention pond 1; thence to detention pond
2; thence to drainage channel 3; thence to drainage channel 4; thence to
an offsite drainage ditch; thence to an unnamed tributary of Cypress
Creek; thence to Cypress Creek and via outfall 002 via pipe to detention
pond 5; thence to detention pond 6; thence, to detention pond 7; thence
to drainage channel 8; thence to an offsite drainage ditch; thence to an
unnamed tributary of Cypress Creek; thence to Cypress Creek. TCEQ
received this application on March 11, 2024. The permit application
will be available for viewing and copying at Lone Star College - CyFair
Library, 9191 Barker Cypress Road, Cypress, Texas prior to the date
this notice is published in the newspaper. This link to an electronic map
of the site or facility's general location is provided as a public courtesy
and not part of the application or notice. For the exact location, refer to
the application.
https://gisweb.tceq.texas.gov/LocationMapper/?marker=-95.826388,
30.007222&level=18
ALTERNATIVE LANGUAGE NOTICE. Alternative language notice
in Spanish is available at https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/
wastewater/plain-language-summaries-and-public-notices. El aviso
de idioma alternativo en español está disponible en https://www.tceq.
texas.gov/permitting/wastewater/plain-language-summaries-andpublic-notices.
ADDITIONAL NOTICE. TCEQ's Executive Director has determined
the application is administratively complete and will conduct a technical
review of the application. After technical review of the application is
complete, the Executive Director may prepare a draft permit and will
issue a preliminary decision on the application. Notice of the Application
and Preliminary Decision will be published and mailed to those who are
on the county-wide mailing list and to those who are on the mailing list
for this application. That notice will contain the deadline for submitting
public comments.
PUBLIC COMMENT / PUBLIC MEETING. You may submit public
comments or request a public meeting on this application. The purpose
of a public meeting is to provide the opportunity to submit comments or
to ask questions about the application. TCEQ will hold a public meeting
if the Executive Director determines that there is a significant degree of
public interest in the application or if requested by a local legislator. A
public meeting is not a contested case hearing.
OPPORTUNITY FOR A CONTESTED CASE HEARING. After the
deadline for submitting public comments, the Executive Director will
consider all timely comments and prepare a response to all relevant
and material, or significant public comments. Unless the application is
directly referred for a contested case hearing, the response to comments,
and the Executive Director's decision on the application, will be mailed
to everyone who submitted public comments and to those persons who
are on the mailing list for this application. If comments are received, the
mailing will also provide instructions for requesting reconsideration of
the Executive Director's decision and for requesting a contested case
hearing. A contested case hearing is a legal proceeding similar to a civil
trial in state district court.
TO REQUEST A CONTESTED CASE HEARING, YOU MUST
INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING ITEMS IN YOUR REQUEST: your
name, address, phone number; applicant's name and proposed permit
number; the location and distance of your property/activities relative to
the proposed facility; a specific description of how you would be adversely
affected by the facility in a way not common to the general public; a
list of all disputed issues of fact that you submit during the comment
period and, the statement “[I/we] request a contested case hearing.”
If the request for contested case hearing is filed on behalf of a group or
association, the request must designate the group's representative for
receiving future correspondence; identify by name and physical address
an individual member of the group who would be adversely affected by
the proposed facility or activity; provide the information discussed above
regarding the affected member's location and distance from the facility
or activity; explain how and why the member would be affected; and
explain how the interests the group seeks to protect are relevant to the
group's purpose.
Following the close of all applicable comment and request periods,
the Executive Director will forward the application and any requests
for reconsideration or for a contested case hearing to the TCEQ
Commissioners for their consideration at a scheduled Commission
meeting.
The Commission may only grant a request for a contested case hearing
on issues the requestor submitted in their timely comments that were not
subsequently withdrawn. If a hearing is granted, the subject of a hearing
will be limited to disputed issues of fact or mixed questions of fact and
law relating to relevant and material water quality concerns submitted
during the comment period.
TCEQ may act on an application to renew a permit for discharge of
wastewater without providing an opportunity for a contested case
hearing if certain criteria are met.
MAILING LIST. If you submit public comments, a request for a
contested case hearing or a reconsideration of the Executive Director's
decision, you will be added to the mailing list for this specific application
to receive future public notices mailed by the Office of the Chief Clerk. In
addition, you may request to be placed on: (1) the permanent mailing list
for a specific applicant name and permit number; and/or (2) the mailing
list for a specific county. If you wish to be placed on the permanent and/
or the county mailing list, clearly specify which list(s) and send your
request to TCEQ Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below.
INFORMATION AVAILABLE ONLINE. For details about the status
of the application, visit the Commissioners' Integrated Database at
www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/cid. Search the database using the permit
number for this application, which is provided at the top of this notice.
AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION. All public comments
and requests must be submitted either electronically at https://www14.
tceq.texas.gov/epic/eComment/, or in writing to the Texas Commission
on Environmental Quality, Office of the Chief Clerk, MC-105, P.O. Box
13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. Please be aware that any contact
information you provide, including your name, phone number, email
address and physical address will become part of the agency's public
record. For more information about this permit application or the
permitting process, please call the TCEQ Public Education Program,
Toll Free, at 1-800-687-4040 or visit their website at www.tceq.texas.
gov/goto/pep. Si desea información en Español, puede llamar al
1-800-687-4040.
Further information may also be obtained from Harris County Municipal
Utility District No. 477 at the address stated above or by calling Ms.
Ashley Broughton, P.E., Senior Project Manager, at 713-380-4431.
Issuance Date: May 6, 2024

Plaintiff(s): US BANK TRUST NATIONAL
ASSOCIATION (AS TRUSTEE OF LBIGOO SERIES IV TRUST)
vs.
Defendant: ORTIZ, JUAN ANTONIO
ADAME
CITATION BY PUBLICATION
THE STATE OF TEXAS
County of Harris
To: UNKNOWN HEIRS OF JUANITA
QUIJADA WHEREABOUTS ARE
UNKNOWN
YOU ARE HEREBY COMMANDEDto be
and appear before the 190TH Judicial
District Court of Harris County, Texas in
the Courthouse in the city of Houston,
Texas at or before 10:00 o’clock A.M.
Monday , the 10TH day of JUNE, 2024.
being the Monday after the expiration date
of forty-two days after this citation is issued, and you are hereby commanded and
required then and there to appear and file
written answer to the PLAINTIFF’S ORIGINAL PETITION, filed in said Court on the
15TH day of FEBRUARY, 2024, a suit
numbered 2022-50781 docket of said
court, wherein U S BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION (AS TRUSTEE OF
LG-IGOO SERIES IV TRUST),the Plaintiff,
JUAN ANTONIO ADAME ORTIZ, VIOLET
CHAVARIN PACHECO, LUIS FERNANDO
PACHECO, CONCEPION CHAVARIN
QUIJADA, MIGUEL CHAVARIN QUIJADA
and UNKNOWN HEIRS AT LAW OF JUANITA QUIJADA (DECEASED),the
Defendants.
SUMMARY:
Plaintiff has valid first secured lien created against the Property; (2) includes an
order authorizing Plaintiff to foreclosure
its lien in compliance with the Loan
Agreement and Tex. Prop. Code § 51.002
by non-judicial sale: (3) Plaintiff is authorized to enforce the security agreement against the Property by non-judicial
sale; (4) includes an order authorizing
Plaintiff to foreclose its lien in compliance with the Loan Agreement, and Tex.
Prop Code § 51.002; (5) divests the
Mortgagor’
Notice hereof shall be given by publishing
this Citation once a week for four consecutive weeks previous to the 10th day of
JUNE, 2024, in some newspaper published in the County of HARRIS, if there be a
newspaper published therein, but if not,
then the nearest county where a newspaper is published, and this Citation shall be
returned JUNE 4TH, 2024, which if fortytwo days after the date it is issued, and
the first publication shall be at least
twenty-eight days before said return day.
HEREIN FAIL NOT, but have before said
court on said return day this Writ with
your return thereon, showing how you
have executed same.
WITNESS: MARILYN BURGESS, District
Clerk, Harris County, Texas
GIVEN UNDER MY HAND AND SEAL OF
SAID COURT at Houston, Texas this 23RD
day of APRIL, 2024.
MARILYN BURGESS, District Clerk
Harris County, Texas
201 Caroline, Houston, Texas 77002
P.O. Box 4651, Houston, Texas 77210
ISSUED BY: CHANDRA LAWSON
JUNIOR DEPUTY CLERK
(SEAL)
Newspaper: HOUSTON CHRONICLE
Issued at the request of: GEORGE
SCHERER, ESQ
16801 ADDISON RD STE 350
ADDISON, TX 75001
Telephone (972) 893-3096
Bar Number: 00784916

WE

DELIVER

YOUR

MESSAGE
HoustonChronicle.
com/Advertise

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 B13

HOUSTON CHRONICLE | HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM

Biden hikes China tariffs, snipes at Trump
By Josh Boak,
Fatima Hussein,
Paul Wiseman
and Didi Tang
ASS O CIAT E D PRE SS

WASHINGTON
—
President
Joe
Biden
slapped major new tariffs
on Chinese electric vehicles, advanced batteries,
solar cells, steel, aluminum and medical equipment on Tuesday, taking
potshots at Donald Trump
along the way as he embraced a strategy that’s increasing friction between
the world’s two largest
economies.
The Democratic president said that Chinese
government subsidies ensure the nation’s companies don’t have to turn a
profit, giving them an unfair advantage in global
trade.
“American workers can
outwork and outcompete
anyone as long as the competition is fair,” Biden said
in the White House Rose
Garden. “But for too long,
it hasn’t been fair. For
years, the Chinese government has poured state
money into Chinese companies … it’s not competition, it’s cheating.”
The tariffs come in the
middle of a heated campaign between Biden and
Trump, his Republican
predecessor, to show
who’s tougher on China.
In a nod to the presidential campaign, Biden recognized lawmakers from
Michigan in his remarks
and spoke about workers
in Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, all battleground
states in November’s election.
Asked to respond to
Trump’s comments that
China was eating America’s lunch, Biden said of
his rival, “He’s been feeding them a long time.” The
Democrat said Trump had
failed to crack down on
Chinese trade abuses as
he had pledged he would
do during his presidency.
Karoline Leavitt, the
Trump campaign’s press
secretary, called the new
tariffs a “weak and futile
attempt” to distract from
Biden’s own support for
EVs in the United States,
which Trump says will
lead to layoffs at auto factories.
The Chinese government was quick to push
back against the tariffs,
saying they “will seriously
affect the atmosphere of
bilateral
cooperation.”
The foreign ministry used
the word “bullying.”
The tariffs are unlikely
to have much of an inflationary impact because of
how they’re structured.
Biden administration officials said they think the
tariffs won’t escalate tensions with China, yet they
expect China will explore
ways to respond to the
new taxes on its products.
It’s uncertain what the
long-term impact on prices could be if the tariffs
contribute to a wider trade
dispute.
The tariffs are to be
phased in over the next
three years, with those
that take effect in 2024
covering EVs, solar cells,
syringes, needles, steel
and aluminum and more.
There are currently very
few EVs from China in the
U.S., but officials worry
low-priced models made
possible by Chinese government subsidies could
soon start flooding the
U.S. market.
Chinese firms can sell
EVs for as little as $12,000.
China’s solar cell plants
and steel and aluminum
mills have enough capacity to meet much of the
world’s demand, with Chinese officials arguing
their production keeps
prices low and would aid a
transition to the green
economy.
China’s commerce ministry said in a statement
that the tariffs were “typical political manipulation” as it expressed its

Chinatopix/Associated Press

A worker assembles an SUV in March at a manufacturing plant of Li Auto in
Changzhou, China. The U.S. announced new tariffs on Chinese EVs on Tuesday.

“strong dissatisfaction”
and pledged to “take resolute measures to defend its
rights and interests.”
Under the findings of a
four-year review on trade
with China, the tax rate on
imported Chinese EVs
will rise to 102.5% this
year, up from total levels
of 27.5%. The review was
undertaken under Section
301 of the Trade Act of 1974,
which allows the government to retaliate against
trade practices deemed
unfair or in violation of
global standards.
Under the 301 guidelines, the tariff rate is to
double to 50% on solar cell
imports this year. Tariffs
on certain Chinese steel
and aluminum products
will climb to 25% this year.
Computer chip tariffs will
double to 50% by 2025.
For lithium-ion EV batteries, tariffs will rise from
7.5% to 25% this year. But
for non-EV batteries of the
same type, the tariff increase will be implemented in 2026. There are also
higher tariffs on ship-toshore cranes, critical minerals and medical products.
The new tariffs, at least
initially, are largely symbolic since they will apply
to only about $18 billion in
imports. A new analysis
by Oxford Economics estimates the tariffs will have
a barely noticeable impact
on inflation by pushing up
inflation by just 0.01%.
The auto industry is
still trying to assess the
impact of the tariffs. But at
present, it appears they
could be assessed on only
two Chinese-made vehicles, the Polestar 2 luxury
EV and potentially Volvo’s
S90 luxury gas-electric
hybrid midsize sedan.
“We’re still reviewing
the tariffs to understand
exactly what’s affected
and how,” said Russell
Datz, spokesman for Volvo, a Swedish brand now
under China’s Geely
group. A message was left
seeking comment from
Polestar, which also falls
under Geely.
The Chinese foreign
ministry spokesperson,
Wang Wenbin, said the
U.S. is trampling on the
principles of a market
economy and international economic and trade
rules.
“It’s a naked act of bullying,” Wang said.
The Chinese economy
has been slowed by the
collapse of the country’s
real estate market and
past coronavirus pandemic lockdowns, prompting
Chinese President Xi Jinping to try to jump-start
growth by ramping up
production of EVs and
other products, making
more than the Chinese
market can absorb.
This strategy further
exacerbates tensions with
a U.S. government that
claims it’s determined to
strengthen its own manufacturing to compete with
China, yet avoid a larger
conflict.
“China’s factory-led recovery and weak consumption growth, which
are translating into excess
capacity and an aggressive
search for foreign mar-

kets, in tandem with the
looming U.S. election season add up to a perfect recipe for escalating U.S.
trade fractions with China,’’ said Eswar Prasad,
professor of trade policy at
Cornell University.
The Europeans are
worried, too. The EU
launched an investigation
last fall into Chinese subsidies and could impose
an import tax on Chinese
EVs.
After Xi’s visit to France
last week, European Commission President Ursula

von der Leyen warned
that government-subsidized Chinese EVs and
steel “are flooding the European market” and said,
“The world cannot absorb
China’s surplus production.’’
Biden’s administration
views China, with its subsidies of manufacturing,
as trying to globally control the EV and clean-energy sectors, whereas the
administration says its
own industrial support is
geared toward ensuring
domestic supplies to help

meet U.S. demand.
“We do not seek to have
global domination of manufacturing in these sectors, but we believe because these are strategic
industries and for the sake
of resilience of our supply
chains, that we want to
make sure that we have
healthy and active firms,”
Treasury Secretary Janet
Yellen said.
The tensions go far beyond a trade dispute to
deeper questions about
who leads the world economy as a seemingly indispensable nation. China’s
policies could make the
world more dependent on
its factories, possibly giving it greater leverage in
geopolitics. At the same
time, the United States
says it’s seeking for countries to operate by the
same standards so competition can be fair.
China maintains the
tariffs are in violation of
the global trade rules the
United States originally
helped establish through
the World Trade Organization. It accuses the U.S.
of continuing to politicize
trade issues and on Friday
said the new tariffs compound the problems
caused by tariffs the
Trump
administration
previously put on Chinese
goods, which Biden has

kept.
Those issues are at the
heart of November’s presidential election, with a bitterly divided electorate
seemingly united by the
idea of getting tough with
China. Biden and Trump
have overlapping but different strategies.
Biden sees targeted tariffs as needed to defend
key industries and workers, while Trump has
threatened broad 10% tariffs against all imports
from rivals and allies
alike.
Biden has staked his
presidential legacy on the
U.S. pulling ahead of China with its own government investments in factories to make EVs, computer chips and other advanced technologies.
Trump tells his supporters America is falling
further behind China by
not betting on oil to keep
powering the economy,
despite its climate change
risks. The ex-president
may believe tariffs can
change Chinese behavior,
but he believes the U.S.
will be reliant on China for
EV components and solar
cells.
“Joe Biden’s economic
plan is to make China rich
and America poor,” he
said at a rally this month
in Wisconsin.

HoustonChronicle.com/Place-Legals legals@chron.com 713.362.6868

TEXAS COMMISSION ON ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

Texas Commission on environmenTal QualiTy

NOTICE OF RECEIPT OF APPLICATION AND
INTENT TO OBTAIN A BENEFICIAL LAND USE
PERMIT RENEWAL

NOTICE OF RECEIPT OF APPLICATION AND
INTENT TO OBTAIN WATER QUALITY PERMIT PROPOSED

PERMIT NO. WQ0005248000
APPLICATION. K-3 Resources, L.P., 9458 Farm-to-Market Road
362, Pattison, Texas 77423, has applied to the Texas Commission on
Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to renew beneficial land use Permit
No. WQ0005248000 to authorize the land application of wastewater
treatment plant Class B biosolids and water treatment plant residuals
for beneficial use on approximately 196.2 acres. The beneficial land
use site is located approximately 1.3 miles south of the intersection of
Farm-to-Market Road 362 and Farm-to-Market Road 529 North,
on the west side of Farm-to-Market Road 362, in Waller County,
Texas 77423. TCEQ received this application on January 31, 2024.
The permit application will be available for viewing and copying at
Waller County Courthouse, 425 Farm-to-Market Road 1488, Suite
112, Hempstead, Texas prior to the date this notice is published in
the newspaper. This link to an electronic map of the site or facility’s
general location is provided as a public courtesy and not part of the
application or notice. For the exact location, refer to the application.
https://gisweb.tceq.texas.gov/LocationMapper/?marker=95.957777,29.901666&level=18
ALTERNATIVE LANGUAGE NOTICE. Alternative language
notice in Spanish is available at https://www.tceq.texas.gov/
permitting/wastewater/plain-language-summaries-andpublicnotices. El aviso de idioma alternativo en español está
disponible en https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/wastewater/
plain-language-summaries-and-publicnotices.
ADDITIONAL NOTICE. TCEQ’s Executive Director has
determined the application is administratively complete and will
conduct a technical review of the application. After technical review
of the application is complete, the Executive Director may prepare a
draft permit and will issue a preliminary decision on the application.
Notice of the Application and Preliminary Decision will be published
and mailed to those who are on the county-wide mailing list and to
those who are on the mailing list for this application. That notice will
contain the deadline for submitting public comments.
PUBLIC COMMENT / PUBLIC MEETING. You may submit
public comments or request a public meeting on this application.
The purpose of a public meeting is to provide the opportunity to
submit comments or to ask questions about the application. TCEQ
will hold a public meeting if the Executive Director determines that
there is a significant degree of public interest in the application or if
requested by a local legislator. A public meeting is not a
contested case hearing.
OPPORTUNITY FOR A CONTESTED CASE HEARING. After the
deadline for submitting public comments, the Executive Director
will consider all timely comments and prepare a response to all
relevant and material, or significant public comments. Unless the
application is directly referred for a contested case hearing, the
response to comments, and the Executive Director’s decision on
the application, will be mailed to everyone who submitted public
comments and to those persons who are on the mailing list for
this application. If comments are received, the mailing will also
provide instructions for requesting reconsideration of the Executive
Director’s decision and for requesting a contested case hearing.
A person who may be affected by the application may request a
hearing. A contested case hearing is a legal proceeding similar to a
civil trial in state district court.
TO REQUEST A CONTESTED CASE HEARING, YOU MUST
INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING ITEMS IN YOUR REQUEST: your
name, address, phone number; applicant’s name and proposed
permit number; the location and distance of your property/activities
relative to the proposed facility; a specific description of how you
would be adversely affected by the facility in a way not common to
the general public; a list of all disputed issues of fact that you submit
during the comment period and, the statement “[I/we] request a
contested case hearing.” If the request for contested case hearing is
filed on behalf of a group or association, the request must designate
the group’s representative for receiving future correspondence;
identify by name and physical address an individual member of
the group who would be adversely affected by the proposed facility
or activity; provide the information discussed above regarding
the affected member’s location and distance from the facility or
activity; explain how and why the member would be affected; and
explain how the interests the group seeks to protect are germane to
the group’s purpose.
Following the close of all applicable comment and request periods,
the Executive Director will forward the application and any
requests for reconsideration or for a contested case hearing to
the TCEQ Commissioners for their consideration at a scheduled
Commission meeting.

PERMIT NO. WQ0016515001
APPLICATION. Mark D. McDonald and Paul D. Smith, 11465 Bilnoski
Road, Willis, Texas 77378, have applied to the Texas Commission
on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for proposed Texas Pollutant
Discharge Elimination System (TPDES) Permit No. WQ0016515001
(EPA I.D. No. TX0145874) to authorize the discharge of treated
wastewater at a volume not to exceed a daily average flow of 450,000
gallons per day. The domestic wastewater treatment facility will
be located approximately 4,550 feet northwest of the intersection of
Bilnoski Road and East Farm-to-Market Road 1097, near the city of
Willis, in Montgomery County, Texas 77378. The discharge route will be
from the plant site to an unnamed tributary of Hegar Branch; thence to
Hegar Branch; thence to Caney Creek. TCEQ received this application
on March 28, 2024. The permit application will be available for viewing
and copying at R. F. Meador Library, 709 West Montgomery Street,
Willis, in Montgomery County, Texas, and at Huntsville Public
Library, 1219 13th Street, Huntsville, in Walker County, Texas prior
to the date this notice is published in the newspaper. This link to an
electronic map of the site or facility’s general location is provided as
a public courtesy and not part of the application or notice. For the
exact location, refer to the application. https://gisweb.tceq.texas.gov/
LocationMapper/?marker=-95.401111,30.5075&level=18
ALTERNATIVE LANGUAGE NOTICE. Alternative language notice
in Spanish is available at https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/
wastewater/plain-language-summaries-and-public-notices. El aviso
de idioma alternativo en español está disponible en https://www.tceq.
texas.gov/permitting/wastewater/plain-language-summaries-andpublic-notices.
ADDITIONAL NOTICE. TCEQ’s Executive Director has determined
the application is administratively complete and will conduct a
technical review of the application. After technical review of the
application is complete, the Executive Director may prepare a draft
permit and will issue a preliminary decision on the application. Notice
of the Application and Preliminary Decision will be published and
mailed to those who are on the county-wide mailing list and to those
who are on the mailing list for this application. That notice will contain
the deadline for submitting public comments.
PUBLIC COMMENT / PUBLIC MEETING. You may submit public
comments or request a public meeting on this application. The purpose
of a public meeting is to provide the opportunity to submit comments or
to ask questions about the application. TCEQ will hold a public meeting
if the Executive Director determines that there is a significant degree
of public interest in the application or if requested by a local legislator.
A public meeting is not a contested case hearing.
OPPORTUNITY FOR A CONTESTED CASE HEARING. After the
deadline for submitting public comments, the Executive Director will
consider all timely comments and prepare a response to all relevant
and material, or significant public comments. Unless the application
is directly referred for a contested case hearing, the response to
comments, and the Executive Director’s decision on the application,
will be mailed to everyone who submitted public comments and
to those persons who are on the mailing list for this application. If
comments are received, the mailing will also provide instructions for
requesting reconsideration of the Executive Director’s decision and for
requesting a contested case hearing. A contested case hearing is a legal
proceeding similar to a civil trial in state district court.
TO REQUEST A CONTESTED CASE HEARING, YOU MUST
INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING ITEMS IN YOUR REQUEST: your
name, address, phone number; applicant’s name and proposed permit
number; the location and distance of your property/activities relative
to the proposed facility; a specific description of how you would be
adversely affected by the facility in a way not common to the general
public; a list of all disputed issues of fact that you submit during the
comment period and, the statement “[I/we] request a contested case
hearing.” If the request for contested case hearing is filed on behalf
of a group or association, the request must designate the group’s
representative for receiving future correspondence; identify by name
and physical address an individual member of the group who would
be adversely affected by the proposed facility or activity; provide the
information discussed above regarding the affected member’s location
and distance from the facility or activity; explain how and why the
member would be affected; and explain how the interests the group
seeks to protect are relevant to the group’s purpose.
Following the close of all applicable comment and request periods,
the Executive Director will forward the application and any requests
for reconsideration or for a contested case hearing to the TCEQ
Commissioners for their consideration at a scheduled Commission
meeting.

The Commission may only grant a request for a contested case
hearing on issues the requestor submitted in their timely comments
that were not subsequently withdrawn. If a hearing is granted, the
subject of a hearing will be limited to disputed issues of fact or mixed
questions of fact and law relating to relevant and material water
quality concerns submitted during the comment period. TCEQ
may act on an application to renew a permit without providing an
opportunity for a contested case hearing if certain criteria are met.

The Commission may only grant a request for a contested case hearing
on issues the requestor submitted in their timely comments that were
not subsequently withdrawn. If a hearing is granted, the subject of a
hearing will be limited to disputed issues of fact or mixed questions of
fact and law relating to relevant and material water quality concerns
submitted during the comment period.

MAILING LIST. If you submit public comments, a request for
a contested case hearing or a reconsideration of the Executive
Director’s decision, you will be added to the mailing list for this
specific application to receive future public notices mailed by the
Office of the Chief Clerk. In addition, you may request to be placed
on: (1) the permanent mailing list for a specific applicant name and
permit number; and/or (2) the mailing list for a specific county. If
you wish to be placed on the permanent and/or the county mailing
list, clearly specify which list(s) and send your request to TCEQ
Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below.

MAILING LIST. If you submit public comments, a request for a
contested case hearing or a reconsideration of the Executive Director’s
decision, you will be added to the mailing list for this specific application
to receive future public notices mailed by the Office of the Chief Clerk.
In addition, you may request to be placed on: (1) the permanent
mailing list for a specific applicant name and permit number; and/or
(2) the mailing list for a specific county. If you wish to be placed on the
permanent and/or the county mailing list, clearly specify which list(s)
and send your request to TCEQ Office of the Chief Clerk at the address
below.

INFORMATION AVAILABLE ONLINE. For details about the
status of the application, visit the Commissioners’ Integrated
Database at www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/cid. Search the database
using the permit number for this application, which is provided at
the top of this notice.

INFORMATION AVAILABLE ONLINE. For details about the status
of the application, visit the Commissioners’ Integrated Database at
www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/cid. Search the database using the permit
number for this application, which is provided at the top of this notice.

AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION. All public comments
and requests must be submitted either electronically at http://
www14.tceq.texas.gov/epic/eComment/, or in writing to the
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Office of the Chief
Clerk, MC-105, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. Please
be aware that any contact information you provide, including your
name, phone number, email address and physical address will
become part of the agency’s public record. For more information
about this permit application or the permitting process, please call
the TCEQ Public Education Program, Toll Free, at 1-800-687-4040
or visit their website at www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/pep. Si desea
información en Español, puede llamar al 1-800-687-4040.

All
public
AGENCY
CONTACTS
AND
INFORMATION.
comments and requests must be submitted either electronically at
https://www14.tceq.texas.gov/epic/eComment/, or in writing to
the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Office of the Chief
Clerk, MC-105, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. Please be
aware that any contact information you provide, including your name,
phone number, email address and physical address will become part
of the agency’s public record. For more information about this permit
application or the permitting process, please call the TCEQ Public
Education Program, Toll Free, at 1-800-687-4040 or visit their website
at www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/pep. Si desea información en Español,
puede llamar al 1-800-687-4040.

Further information may also be obtained from K-3 Resources,
L.P. at the address stated above or by calling Mr. Andy Drennan
at 281-375-5778.

Further information may also be obtained from Mark D. McDonald
and Paul D. Smith at the address stated above or by calling Ms. Shelley
Young, Consulting Engineer, WaterEngineers. Inc., at 281-373-0500.

Issuance Date: April 3, 2024

Issuance Date: May 3, 2024

B14 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

HOUSTON CHRONICLE | HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM

ALICE MUNRO 1931-2024

Nobel-winning writer revered as short story master
By Hillel Italie
A SS O CIAT E D PRE SS

Nobel laureate Alice
Munro, the Canadian literary giant among the
world’s most esteemed
contemporary authors and
short story writers, has
died at age 92.
A spokesperson for publisher Penguin Random
House Canada said Munro,
winner of the Nobel literary prize in 2013, died Monday at home in Port Hope,
Ontario. Munro had been
in frail health for years and
retired after her 2012 collection, “Dear Life.”
Often ranked with Anton Chekhov and John
Cheever, Munro achieved
stature rare for an art form
traditionally placed beneath the novel. She was
the first lifelong Canadian
to win the Nobel and the
first recipient cited exclusively for short fiction. The
Swedish academy lauded
her ability to “accommodate the entire epic complexity of the novel in just a
few short pages.”
Little known beyond
Canada until her late 30s,
Munro became one of the
few short story writers to
enjoy ongoing commercial
success. Over a half century of writing, she perfected
illuminating the universal
through the particular, creating stories set around
Canada that appealed to
readers globally. She produced no single definitive
work, but dozens of showcases of her wisdom, technique and talent.
She was admired without apparent envy, revered
by the likes of Jonathan
Franzen, John Updike and
Cynthia Ozick. Fellow Canadian author Margaret
Atwood called her a pioneer for women and Canadians.
“Back in the 1950s and
60s, when Munro began,
there was a feeling that not
only female writers but Canadians were thought to be
both trespassing and
transgressing,”
Atwood
wrote in 2013 for the
Guardian.
Although not overtly political, Munro participated
in the cultural revolution of
the 1960s and ’70s and permitted her characters to do
the same. She was a farmer’s daughter who married
young, then left her husband and took to “wearing
miniskirts and prancing
around,” as she recalled to
the Associated Press in

2003. Many of her stories
contrasted her parents’
generation with her own,
departing from the years
when housewives daydreamed “between the
walls that the husband was
paying for.”
Her stories often first appeared in the New Yorker.
Her prose style was
straightforward, her tone
matter of fact, but her plots
revealed unending disruption and disappointments:
broken marriages, violent
deaths, madness and
dreams unfulfilled, or never even attempted.
Moviegoers would become familiar with “The
Bear Came Over the Mountain,” adapted by Sarah
Polley into 2006’s “Away
from Her.” Munro received
honors from around the
English-language world,
including Britain’s Man
Booker International Prize
and the National Book
Critics Circle award in the
U.S., where the American
Academy of Arts and Letters voted her in as an honorary member.
She was a short story
writer by choice, and, apparently, by design. Judith
Jones, an Alfred A. Knopf
editor, did not want to publish Munro’s only novel,
writing in an internal
memo that “there’s no
question the lady can write
but it’s also clear she is primarily a short story writer.”
Munro would acknowledge that she didn’t think
like a novelist.
“I have all these disconnected realities in my own
life, and I see them in other
people’s lives,” she told the
AP. “That was one of the
problems, why I couldn’t
write novels. I never saw
things hanging together
too well.”
Alice Ann Laidlaw was
born in 1931 in Wingham,
Ontario, and spent much of
her childhood there.
A top student, she received a scholarship to
study at the University of
Western Ontario, majoring
in journalism as a “coverup” for her pursuit of literature. She was still an undergraduate when she sold
a story about a lonely
teacher to CBC Radio. One
fellow student wrote to the
author that the story reminded him of Chekhov.
The student, Gerald Fremlin, would become her second husband. Another fellow student, James Munro,
was her first husband.

EV maker Rivian
warns California
of 120 more layoffs
By Jessica Garrison
L O S A N G E LE S T IME S

Rivian Automotive Inc.,
at one time considered the
darling of the electric vehicle market, has informed
state officials that it plans
more layoffs in California.
In an April 24 letter to the
state’s Employment Development Department, the
company’s vice president of
people, Scott Griffin, said
Rivian planned to lay off
more than 120 employees,
including 89 in Irvine and
28 in Palo Alto.
The job losses will begin
in June, Griffin wrote, and
are expected to be permanent.
In February, the company announced it was cutting 10% of its workforce,
which sent the stock plummeting from the dizzying
heights it had achieved after its 2021 initial public offering.
At that time, the company was valued at nearly $88
billion. On Monday, it was
valued at about $11 billion.
Reuters reported recently
that, as of Dec. 31, the company had about 16,790 employees
across
North
America and Europe.
“We continue to work to

right-size the business and
ensure alignment to our
priorities,” a Rivian spokesman said in a statement.
“As a follow-up to some of
the changes we made to
teams in February, in April
we shared some additional
changes to groups supporting the business. Around 1
percent of our workforce
was affected by this change.
This was a difficult decision, but a necessary one to
support our goal to be gross
margin positive by the end
of the year.”

They married when
she was only 20, and
had
four
children.
Settling
with
her
Munro
family in
British Columbia, Alice
Munro wrote between
trips to school, housework
and helping her husband
at their bookstore. Isolated
from the literary center of

Toronto, she managed to
get published in several literary magazines and attracted the attention of Ryerson Press. Her debut collection, “Dance of the Happy Shades,” was released
in 1968 with a first printing
of just under 2,700 copies.
A year later, it won the Governor’s General Award and
made Munro a national celebrity — and curiosity.
“Literary Fame Catches
City Mother Unprepared,”

read one newspaper headline.
“When the book first
came they sent me a half
dozen copies. I put them in
the closet. I didn’t look at
them. I didn’t tell my husband they had come, because I couldn’t bear it. I
was afraid it was terrible,”
Munro told the AP. “And
one night, he was away,
and I forced myself to sit
down and read it all the
way through, and I didn’t

think it was too bad. And I
felt I could acknowledge it
and it would be OK.”
By the early ’70s, she had
left her husband, later observing she was not “prepared to be a submissive
wife.”
Her changing life was
best illustrated by her response to the annual census. For years, she had
written down her occupation as “housewife.” In 1971,
she switched to “writer.”

Ertan, Inci Ph.D.
Lisenby, Ann
Scott, Fred Jr.
Sinclair, Donald
ANN SHAFTO NOEL LISENBY
01/30/1933 - 04/27/2024

Ann Shafto Noel Lisenby,
passed away peacefully at her
home in Houston surrounded
by her children on Saturday,
the 27th of April 2024.
Ann was born on the 30th
of January 1933, in Monroe,
Louisiana to Sara Neville and
Wesley (Bobby) Simes Shafto.
Ann attended Monroe’s
Neville High School, named
after her maternal grandfather Ernest Neville. Ann
graduated from Newcomb
College in 1955, where she
studied elementary education
and was a proud member of
Chi Omega sorority. Following college graduation Ann
married John P. Noel, Jr.
and together they shared 50
blessed and happy years. Ann
and John were christened
together as infants, were
childhood friends and went
on to become college sweethearts. After John’s passing
in 2006, Ann found great joy
in her nine year marriage to
Thomas J. Lisenby.
With Ann’s support and
commitment, John’s career
took them to Port Arthur,
Pittsburgh, Madrid, Tokyo,
Philadelphia, and Houston,
making countless friends
around the world. Ann took
great pride in her Houston
home, where she lived for 51
years. Ann’s home reflected
her love of antiques, gardening and her southern style.
Following John’s retirement,
Houston County Lake became
a second home where they enjoyed spending many happy

days with family, relaxing
on the porch, bird watching,
reading and visiting with
their neighbors.
Ann enjoyed traveling to
England, combining her love
of history, architecture, art
and beautiful gardens. She
was a lifelong learner taking
history, decorative and fine
arts classes for many years.
She cherished weekends in
Galveston with Tom, her time
on the golf course and around
the mahjong table.
A lifelong Episcopalian,
Ann was a member of St.
Martin’s Episcopal Church
in Houston, where she was a
member of the Altar Guild.
She was a dedicated and
passionate docent at Bayou
Bend Collection and Gardens
for many years. Ann was also
a member of the Daughters of
the American Revolution and
the National Society of the
Colonial Dames of America.
Ann lived for, supported
and loved her family and
many dear friends. Nothing
brightened “Gran’s” day more
than spending time with her
nine grandchildren along
with the visits and pictures of
her ten great grandchildren.
Ann was preceded in death
by her beloved husband of
50 years, John Payne Noel,
Jr.; her loving husband of
nine years, Thomas Jackson
Lisenby; her parents, Sara
Neville and Wesley Simes
Shafto; her brother Wesley
Simes Shafto, Jr.; and her
grandson Quinton Matthew

Noel.
Ann is survived by her
children, John Payne Noel
III and wife Susan, Robert
Wesley Noel and wife Carrie, and Ann Noel Parish
and husband John; her
grandchildren, Christopher
Bartlett Noel and wife Claire,
Wesley Ryan Noel and wife
Andrea, Andrew Thomas
Noel, Sarah Noel Richardson
and husband Mark, Valerie
Noel Jordan and husband
Ethan, Katherine Noel Sibley
and husband Matthew, John
Lannom Parish III and Allie
Neville Parish; and her ten
great grandchildren.
The family wishes to
express their gratitude and
love to Ann’s loving and
kind caregivers, especially
Maria Granados who was her
devoted friend for 30 years,
Pat Lee, Destiny Babalola and
Dorothy Alfred.
A memorial service is to be
conducted at eleven o’clock
in the morning on Monday,
the 20th of May, in the Christ
Chapel of St. Martin’s Epis-

copal Church, 717 Sage Road
in Houston, where the Rev.
Martin J. Bastian, Vice Rector
is to officiate. Immediately
following, all are invited to
greet the family during a
reception at St. Martin’s.
In lieu of customary
remembrances, the family
suggests memorial contributions be directed to The
Bayou Bend Collections and
Gardens, 6003 Memorial
Drive, Houston, TX 77007
or to St. Martin’s Episcopal
Church, 717 Sage Road,
Houston, TX 77056.
Please visit Ann’s online memorial tribute at
GeoHLewis.com where
memories and words of
comfort and condolence may
be shared electronically with
her family.

INCI EVREN ERTAN, PHD

FRED E. SCOTT JR

08/19/1944 - 05/09/2024

08/31/1926 - 04/09/2024

Dr. Inci Evren Ertan, a
distinguished mineralogist,
devoted wife, loving mother,
and cherished grandmother,
passed away peacefully
surrounded by her family on
Thursday, May 9, 2024, in
Houston, Texas. She was 79
years of age.
Born on August 19, 1944,
in Turkey to Turgut Evren
and Zarife Cildiroglu, Inci
embarked on a remarkable
journey marked by academic
excellence and professional
achievements. She earned
her PhD from the University
of Vienna in 1971, laying the
foundation for a career in
geology and research.
Inci’s professional endeavors led her to serve as a senior
mineralogist at MTA, the
Institute of Mineral Research
and Exploration, in Ankara,
Turkey, where she crossed
paths with her beloved
husband of 52 years, Dr.
Atilla Ertan. In 1980, Inci and
Atilla, along with their two
young children, embarked
on a new chapter in New
Orleans, Louisiana, eventually
settling in Houston, Texas,
in 1990. Throughout her
career, Inci made contributions to the field of geology
and research, notably at the
University of New Orleans
and Rice University. Additionally, she served as a
clinical research manager at
the University of Texas Health
Sciences in Houston before
retiring.
Beyond her professional
accomplishments, Inci was a
woman of elegance, poise, and
grace. Her wit and wonderful sense of humor endeared
her to all who knew her. She
found joy in traveling across
the US and Europe, listening
to classical music, admiring
impressionist art, and hosting
gatherings for family and
friends in her beloved Inci’s
bistro.
Inci leaves behind a legacy
of strength and compassion.
Despite facing the challenges

of Parkinson’s disease for
nearly two decades, she embraced life with unwavering
determination and grace.
Inci is survived by her
devoted husband, Dr. Atilla
Ertan, her children and their
spouses, Mr. and Mrs. Baris
Ertan, and Mrs. Basak Ertan
and Dr. Anthony Gabriel, and
her six adoring grandchildren,
Leyla Ertan, Cameron Ertan,
Ella Reese Ertan, Katina
Gabriel, Kristin Gabriel, and
Andreas Gabriel.
A memorial service is to be
conducted at two o’clock in
the afternoon on Saturday,
the 18th of May 2024, at Geo.
H. Lewis & Sons, 1010 Bering
Drive in Houston. Immediately following, all are invited
to greet the family during
a reception in the adjacent
grand foyer.
Inci Evren Ertan will be
deeply missed but forever
remembered for her intellect,
warmth, and unwavering love
for her family. May her soul
rest in eternal peace.
Please view Dr. Ertan’s
online memorial tribute
at GeoHLewis.com, where
memories and words of
comfort and condolence may
be shared with her family
electronically.

Born in Houston, Texas,
to Fred E. Scott, Sr. and Ollie
(Linda) Roten Scott. Raised
in Austin, Texas, by paternal
grandmother, Lula Coleman
Scott.
Fred is preceded in death
by his beloved wife of 65
years, Jessie Westphal Scott;
his grandparents; parents;
stepfather, Guy Pearce;
brother, W.R. (Bill) Scott;
best pal, Randy Minatra and
cousins.
He is survived by his
cousin, Paula Sorrells-Beene,
of Iola; cousin-in-law, Kathy
Kocurek of Burnet; and a passel of distant cousins, nieces
and nephews spread out from
New Jersey to Hawaii.
A member of Grace
Episcopal Church (formerly
St. George’s) in Houston,
Texas, from 1964 to the present, Fred helped coordinate
various projects as Eucharistic Minister, Lector, Healing
Prayer Ministry, and was a
member of the Brotherhood
of St. Andrew, and a Sr. and
Jr. Warden.
Fred graduated from
Austin High, Austin, Texas,
in 1942. He entered USNR
active duty in V-5 Program
and returned to inactive duty
as program was closed at the
end of World War II. He was
honorably discharged in 1947.
Fred attended UT-Austin,
PiKA (AL & BM Chapters.)
Graduated SHSTC, Hunts-

ville, TX, B.S. Chemistry, and
worked in sales and marketing for hydrocarbon processing industry with W.H.
Curtin and Co., and Esch &
Associates.
Fred “threw in the towel”
in 1995 and moved himself
and Jessie to Clarewood
House Retirement Community in 2004. He enjoyed
many happy years there, until
his death on April 9, 2024.
Fred leaves a very special
thank you to his dear friend
Dorothy Mae Rhodes for her
many years of compassionate
and loving care toward him
and his wife.
A service for Burial of
the Dead along with Committal and inurnment in the
church columbarium will be
celebrated by Rev. Wendy
Wilkinson, Rector, on Saturday, May 18, 2024, at 2:00
PM, Grace Episcopal Church,
located at 4040 W Bellfort
Ave, Houston TX.
“Lord, have mercy on me,
a sinner. Amen.” –Fred E.
Scott, Jr.
Condolences may be
offered at www.millerfuneral.
com

DONALD SINCLAIR
10/06/1929 - 04/23/2024

After serving in the Air
Force at the end of WW2 Don
met and married Katherine
Carter, his wife of 72 yrs. Don
received a divinity degree
from SMU & went on to serve
15 ministerial assignments in
the United Methodist Church
from 1950-1996. Don was an
advocate for the plain truth
of the Gospel in the modern
world and a champion for
racial and gender equality.
Don received a Dr. of Ministry
degree from Drew and many
awards for helping to develop
AIDS & HIV ministries. Ser-

vices will be Sat., May 18, at 2
pm at Bering Memorial UCC
in Houston.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 B15

HOUSTON CHRONICLE | HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM

Wholesale prices climb sharply in April
By Christopher Rugaber
AS S OC IAT E D PRE SS

WASHINGTON
—
U.S.
wholesale prices rose sharply last
month, a sign that inflation pressures remain stubbornly high after three elevated readings in consumer prices to start the year.
The Labor Department said
Tuesday that its producer price
index — which tracks price
changes before they reach consumers — climbed 0.5% from
March to April, after it dipped
0.1% the previous month. Measured year over year, producer
prices rose by 2.2% in April, up
from 1.8% in March and the biggest increase in a year.
A measure of underlying inflation, which excludes the volatile
food and energy categories, also
jumped 0.5% from March to
April, and rose 2.4% compared
with a year earlier. Economists
closely watch core prices because
they provide a better signal of
where inflation is headed than
the overall figure.

Joshua A. Bickel/Associated Press

Rubila Clemente waters onions April 19 at Christopher Farm in
Modoc, Ind. Vegetable costs plunged 18.7% from March to April.

Tuesday’s unexpectedly high
readings may raise concerns on
Wall Street, at the Biden White
House and for inflation-fighters
at the Federal Reserve. Last week
Fed officials underscored that
they were prepared to leave their
key interest rate at 5.3%, the highest in 23 years, as long as needed
to bring inflation back to its 2%

target. Consumer price inflation
has fallen steadily since late 2022
but stalled at an elevated level in
the first three months of this year.
At the same time, some wholesale prices fell in ways that suggest consumer inflation could
cool a bit this month. A measure
of air fares fell 3.8%, and food
prices dropped 0.7%. Vegetable

costs plunged 18.7%, just between
March and April. Hospital prices
also declined.
That data, as well as some other figures, feed into the Federal
Reserve’s preferred measure of
consumer prices, which will be
released toward the end of this
month. Economists estimate that
figure may come in a bit lower
than the previous month because
of declines in items like air fares.
“In that respect, April’s news
was mixed but, on balance, encouraging,” Paul Ashworth, an
economist at Capital Economics,
wrote in a research note.
On Wednesday, the government will release the latest consumer inflation data, which will
command much greater attention
from investors and economists.
Analysts forecast it will slip
slightly, to an annual rate of 3.4%,
from 3.5% in March, after rising
for two months. Core inflation is
forecast to fall to 3.6% from 3.8%.
Last month, wholesale prices
were pushed higher by more expensive gas, electricity, and

freight shipping. A quirky measure of the cost of managing stock
portfolios for investors also rose
sharply, elevating the overall index.
As recently as March, Fed officials had forecast they would reduce their key rate three times
this year. But in their most recent
comments, most suggest they
could cut once or twice this year,
or maybe not at all.
Markets that had been positive
for most of the morning flipped
after the report was released and
headed lower.
Persistent inflation has discouraged consumers, whose confidence has fallen in recent
months, and threatens President
Joe Biden’s reelection bid.
The producer price index can
provide an early read on where
consumer inflation is headed. It is
also closely watched because
some of its data is used to compile
the Fed’s preferred inflation
gauge, known as the personal
consumption expenditures price
index.

Red Lobster shutters dozens of locations across U.S.
By Wyatte Grantham-Philips
A SS OC IAT E D PRE SS

NEW YORK — Dozens of Red
Lobster locations across the U.S.
are on the chopping block.
Restaurant liquidator TAGeX
Brands announced this week
that it would be auctioning off the
equipment of over 50 Red Lobster locations that were recently
closed as part of the seafood
chain’s “footprint rationalization.” The locations span across
more than 20 states — cutting
back on Red Lobster’s presence
in cities like Denver, San Antonio, Indianapolis and Sacramento, Calif.

Jobs

User’s Guide

It’s unclear if Red Lobster
plans to shutter any additional
restaurants in the near future.
The Orlando, Fla.-based company did not immediately respond
to the Associated Press’ requests
for comment.
On Red Lobster’s website, a
handful of impacted locations
were listed as “temporarily
closed” or “unavailable” Tuesday
morning.
Red Lobster has been struggling for some time. With lease
and labor costs piling up in recent years, the chain is now reportedly considering filing for
bankruptcy protection. A potential Chapter 11 filing could help

Red Robster exit from some longterm contracts and renegotiate
many of its leases, unnamed
sources familiar with the matter
told Bloomberg News last month.
Maintaining stable management has also proven difficult,
with the company seeing multiple ownership changes over its
56-year history. Earlier this year,
Red Lobster co-owner Thai
Union Group, one of the world’s
largest seafood suppliers, announced its intention to exit its
minority investment in the dining chain.
Thai Union first invested in
Red Lobster in 2016 and upped its
stake in 2020. At the time of the

January announcement on its
plans to divest, CEO Thiraphong
Chansiri said the COVID-19 pandemic, industry headwinds and
rising operating costs had impacted Red Lobster and resulted
in “prolonged negative financial
contributions to Thai Union and
its shareholders.”
For the first nine months of
2023, the Thailand company reported a $19 million share of loss
from Red Lobster.
And then there’s been the
problem of endless shrimp. Last
year, Red Lobster significantly
expanded its iconic all-you-caneat shrimp deal. But customer
demand overwhelmed what the

TO ADVERTISE:

chain could afford, which also reportedly contributed to the millions in losses.
TAGeX Brands’ auctions for
the more than 50 closing Red
Lobster locations it’s handling
liquidation for began Monday
and will run through Thursday.
The sales are “winner takes all”
— meaning that one winner will
receive the entirety of contents
for each location. Images on TAGeX Brands’ website indicate
that includes ovens, refrigerators, bar setups, dining furniture
and more.
TAGeX Brands called the liquidation “the largest restaurant
equipment auction event ever.”

Chron.com/Jobs
(713) 224-6868 or
hc_recruitment@chron.com

B16 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

HOUSTON CHRONICLE | HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM

WEATHER
HOUSTON’S SEVEN-DAY FORECAST

| Go to AccuWeather.com

89
69

83
72

82
68

90
70

92
72

92
73

91
74

TODAY
Sunshine mixing with
some clouds

THURSDAY
Heavy rain and a
thunderstorm

FRIDAY
Mostly cloudy with
heavy t-storms

SATURDAY
Times of clouds and
sun

SUNDAY
Mostly sunny

MONDAY
Mostly sunny

TUESDAY
Sunny and humid

110s

AIR QUALITY

40s

100s
90s

Vancouver

Calgary

Regina

70s

Thunder Bay

Montreal

Portland

Ottawa
Toronto

60s
Minneapolis

50s

Detroit

10s

Chicago

Salt Lake City

30s
20s

Boston

San Francisco

New York
Washington

Denver

-0s

Ozone watch

-10s

Unhealthy
Very unhealthy
Hazardous

Yesterday’s readings by the
Houston Health Department:

Countpercubicmeterofair
Low
Medium
Medium
Heavy

2
16
10
16089
Heavy
Extremely heavy

Note: No measurements on weekends;
charts in Sunday and Monday papers reflect
forecast ratings from the previous Friday.

COMFORT INDEX
The comfort index takes into
account how the weather will
feel based on a combination of
factors. A rating of 10 feels very
comfortable while a rating of 0
feels very uncomfortable.
6

3

Fri.

Sat.

Sun.

Mon.

6

5

2

5

UV TODAY
Values indicate the exposure to
the sun’s Ultraviolet rays.
8 a.m. 10 a.m. Noon 2 p.m. 4 p.m. 6 p.m.

2

5

11

0-2, Low
3-5, Moderate
6-7, High

11

5

1

8-10, Very high
11+, Extreme

SUN AND MOON
First
quarter

May 15

Little Rock

Phoenix

Rain

El Paso

Showers

Full
moon

May 23

Sunset tonight
Sunrise Thursday
Moonrise today
Moonset today

Last
quarter

May 30

New
moon

June 6

8:08 p.m.
6:27 a.m.
1:17 p.m.
2:16 a.m.

Atlanta

Dallas
Houston

91/70/s
70/55/pc
68/63/pc
81/71/pc
75/53/s
92/77/t

Beijing
84/52/s
Ho Chi Minh City
96/82/t
Hong Kong
86/76/s
Islamabad
101/74/c
Jakarta
93/78/sh
Karachi
99/82/pc
Kuala Lumpur
92/77/t
Manila
96/81/c
New Delhi
107/82/pc
Seoul
64/42/sh
Shanghai
80/51/pc
Singapore
91/80/t
Sydney
71/55/s
Taipei
86/64/pc
Tokyo
73/62/c

88/58/c
93/80/t
85/74/s
101/75/c
93/78/pc
99/81/pc
89/77/t
95/81/t
110/85/pc
69/48/s
81/58/s
88/80/t
69/56/c
81/68/pc
74/61/pc

Chihuahua

Ice

Miami

Jet stream
Monterrey

Havana

Amsterdam
Athens
Berlin
Mexico City Veracruz
Copenhagen
Villahermosa
Dublin
Forecasts and
Frankfurt
Belmopan
Acapulco
Honolulu
graphics provided by Geneva
Cold
Warm
Stationary
AccuWeather,
Inc.
Istanbul
front
front
front
©2024
London
Madrid
Moscow
Paris
FOR THE RECORD
TEXAS
NATIONAL cont.
Prague
George Bush Intercontinental
Today
Thu.
Today
Thu. Rome
Airport through 3 p.m. Tue.
Abilene
90/64/t
74/60/t Cleveland
66/55/c
70/60/pc Stockholm
82/54/t
70/53/t Columbus
70/58/t
77/61/pc Vienna
Temperature
Degrees F Amarillo
Austin
90/64/pc
82/66/t Denver
65/44/t
73/51/pc Warsaw
High
86 Beaumont
87/68/s
81/71/r Des Moines
73/59/pc
76/57/t Zurich
92/81/pc
96/82/pc Detroit
73/53/c
73/58/pc Latin America
Low
64 Brownsville
St. 91/67/pc
82/69/r Duluth
58/42/pc
61/47/pc Bogota
Normal high
86 Bryan/College
Corpus Christi
90/78/pc
89/79/t Fairbanks
64/39/s
64/40/pc Buenos Aires
Normal low
67 Dallas/Ft. Worth 89/68/pc
76/66/r Great Falls
73/50/pc
76/52/c Caracas
92/69/pc
86/62/pc Hartford
75/58/c
71/53/r Havana
Record high
93 in 2018 El Paso
84/76/pc
83/77/r Honolulu
83/72/r
82/71/r Kingston
Record low
47 in 1971 Galveston
Kingsville
92/79/pc
91/79/t Indianapolis
71/57/pc
77/61/t Lima
Precipitation
Inches Laredo
100/78/pc
99/78/pc Jackson, MS
84/61/s
88/67/pc Rio de Janeiro
89/66/s
83/64/r Juneau
55/38/sh
61/39/s San Juan
24-hour total
0.48 Longview
89/61/t
73/55/t Kansas City
73/60/t
75/59/t San Salvador
Month to date
5.94 Lubbock
McAllen
95/80/pc
98/80/pc Las Vegas
95/72/s
96/73/s Santiago
Normal month to date
2.01 Midland/Odessa 91/66/t
85/61/t Little Rock
85/64/s
86/65/c Sao Paulo
92/66/t
89/59/t Los Angeles
71/56/pc
69/58/pc St. Thomas
Year to date
23.05 San Angelo
91/70/pc
85/67/t Memphis
80/63/pc
87/67/c
Normal year to date
16.28 San Antonio
Texarkana
90/68/s
89/67/c Miami
97/80/t
97/77/t Mexico
Other readings
Victoria
91/72/pc
87/73/t Milwaukee
62/48/s
68/58/pc Acapulco
88/63/pc
76/65/r Minneapolis
74/57/pc
73/56/pc Cancun
Top wind speed
12 mph Waco
Nashville
76/61/t
84/63/pc Guadalajara
High barometer
29.83 in.
New Orleans
89/71/s
86/75/t Guanajuato
Low barometer
29.73 in. NATIONAL
New York City
67/57/r
66/57/r Mazatlan
Today
Thu.
Oklahoma City
86/63/c
80/60/t Merida
High dewpoint
68°
NY
70/58/sh
78/56/pc Orlando
88/72/t
93/71/pc Mexico City
Low dewpoint
63° Albany,
Albuquerque
81/54/pc
74/53/t Philadelphia
65/57/r
68/57/c Puerto Vallarta
Average dewpoint
66° Anchorage
52/38/s
49/39/c Phoenix
97/73/pc
95/72/s Tampico
79/63/pc
84/65/pc Pittsburgh
70/56/t
77/57/pc Veracruz
High humidity
100% Atlanta
64/60/r
73/57/pc Portland, OR
79/53/pc
72/52/pc Middle East
Low humidity
45% Baltimore
Billings
70/51/pc
77/51/pc Sacramento
89/55/s
84/54/s Baghdad
Birmingham
80/62/pc
84/68/s St. Louis
74/60/pc
73/63/t Beirut
78/52/pc
85/55/s Salt Lake City
75/53/s
80/61/s Dubai
KEY TO CONDITIONS Boise
Boston
70/56/c
62/51/r San Diego
67/61/pc
67/61/pc Jerusalem
s - sunny
r - rain
Buffalo
68/57/c
74/57/pc San Francisco
67/55/s
67/54/pc Kabul
pc - partly cloudy
sf - snow flurries
Charleston, SC
85/66/t
83/65/pc Santa Fe
74/49/pc
67/43/t Mecca
c - cloudy
sn - snow
Charlotte
79/60/t
82/62/sh Seattle
73/51/c
67/47/s Riyadh
i
ice
sh - showers
Chicago
67/51/s
74/58/sh Tucson
90/61/s
90/63/s Tehran
t - thunderstorms
Cincinnati
69/57/t
78/63/sh Washington, DC
66/61/r
74/57/pc Tel Aviv
Guadalajara

Mérida

Cancún

From page B8

MUSK
From page B8
in October.
The ECHO building expansion project marks
the newest addition to
SpaceX’s growing facility
— about a 15-minute drive
from the city of Bastrop’s
downtown — where the
company manufactures
its Starlink satellites.
SpaceX has invested
more than $48.2 million
in infrastructure at the
site, including a $43 million, 521,521-square-foot
satellite factory.
Its growth in Bastrop
County reflects booming
business at Starlink,
SpaceX’s satellite internet
service company.
In 2023, for the first
time, Starlink generated
more revenue than its
parent company’s space
lift business, $4.2 billion
versus $3.5 billion. Starlink’s revenue is projected to reach $6.6 billion

Calgary
Edmonton
Montreal
Toronto
Vancouver
Winnipeg

Europe

Anchorage

LIENS
Some of them also name
subcontractors who ordered work and materials
on behalf of SpaceX, which
posted an estimated $8.7
billion in revenue in 2023.
Though it’s unclear whether the money is owed by
SpaceX or its subcontractors, landowners are ultimately responsible for unpaid construction bills on
their properties under Texas law.
SpaceX did not respond
to a request for comment.
In San Antonio, it owes
Crawford Electric Supply
almost $21,000 for two separate mechanic’s and materials liens.
The first, filed in November, says SpaceX owes
$12,236 for electric materials and supplies for work in
the “SpaceX Homes project” on the former Weems

Asia/Pacific

Canada

New Orleans

Hermosillo

Flurries

POLLEN AND MOLD

Today Thu.

Los Angeles

T-storms

Snow

Low
Medium

87/68/s
71/50/pc
68/60/c
82/72/pc
75/53/s
92/77/t

Cairo
Cape Town
Casablanca
Dakar
Johannesburg
Lagos

Winnipeg

0s

Tree pollen
Weed pollen
Grass pollen
Mold spores

Thu.

Africa

Saskatoon

Seattle

80s

Today’s forecast for the entire
metro area by the TCEQ:

Good
Moderate
Unhealthy
for sensitive
groups

Today

Shown are noon positions of weather systems and precipitation. Temperature bands are highs for the day.

TODAY: Sunshine mixing
with some clouds. High 86
to 91. Winds east-southeast
becoming southeast 6-12
mph. TONIGHT: A late-night
thunderstorm. Low 66 to 71.
Winds southeast 4-8 mph.

Marvin Pfeiffer/Staff photographer

Construction continues on the new Starfactory, where Starship production will
take place at Starbase. SpaceX owes $2.5 million to contractors and suppliers.

Street in Boca Chica Village.
Musk
officially
changed the name of the
street to Memes Street in
March, a nod to the social
this year, according to
market research firm
Quilty Space.
Besides SpaceX and
Starlink, Musk also has
his tunnel construction
company, the Boring Co.,
in Bastrop, across the
street from the Starlink
factory. That venture has
been less successful than
the satellite company,
while its activity in Bastrop County has frazzled
neighbors in the rural
community with noise,
traffic, drainage problems and code violations.
The Boring Co. has also
encountered worker safety concerns and complaints with the Occupational Safety and Health
Administration.
Musk’s
companies
have also built the Boring
Bodega, His & Hers Salon
and Prufrock Pub in the
area comprising what he
calls Hyperloop Plaza. It’s
part of the company town
the billionaire is building
called Snailbrook.

GALVESTON BAY: Wind
from the north at 6-12 knots
becoming southeast today.
Seas 1-3 feet. Visibility clear
to the horizon. Tonight: Wind
from the south-southeast
at 7-14 knots. Seas 2-4 feet.
Increasing clouds.

INTERNATIONAL

NORTH AMERICA TODAY

METRO AREA
OUTLOOK

media message that uses
images or videos and text to
make statements.
Crawford says it provided materials as contracted

with International Electric
LLC of Brownsville but
was not paid. Crawford
billed International Electric, Core Construction of

COASTAL FORECAST

65/43/t
60/41/c
70/55/c
66/54/pc
65/51/pc
55/46/sh

58/36/sh
58/40/c
73/57/c
68/54/c
65/49/s
68/50/c

69/56/sh
72/60/c
80/55/s
70/53/s
63/48/pc
73/57/c
63/51/r
65/55/pc
68/52/pc
67/46/pc
60/43/c
67/50/pc
73/52/s
76/59/pc
73/47/s
73/54/pc
69/48/s
63/51/sh

66/55/r
74/62/pc
79/57/s
68/54/pc
64/53/pc
67/53/r
63/49/sh
68/54/c
66/51/sh
67/48/pc
66/54/c
66/50/c
67/53/c
76/55/s
72/44/s
67/53/sh
70/49/pc
65/51/sh

69/50/r
59/48/c
90/76/sh
95/76/pc
91/81/pc
70/63/pc
77/71/r
90/78/t
92/71/pc
50/34/r
65/61/c
91/81/pc

69/50/sh
60/47/pc
92/77/sh
94/74/pc
91/81/s
71/64/pc
82/74/pc
92/77/t
87/72/t
58/36/s
83/66/pc
92/80/s

89/75/s
93/79/s
95/58/s
93/57/s
86/65/pc
107/80/s
87/59/s
89/68/s
93/81/pc
92/80/c

89/74/s
92/80/pc
96/59/s
95/55/s
86/64/c
108/79/pc
88/59/c
90/71/pc
94/82/s
99/80/pc

93/71/pc
75/63/s
105/88/pc
74/54/s
81/55/c
102/72/pc
109/84/s
82/64/s
77/66/s

98/74/pc
75/64/s
105/86/pc
76/56/s
80/56/t
102/73/pc
108/78/s
82/66/s
78/67/s

RGV and SpaceX multiple
times between May 2023
and October before filing
the lien.
Crawford’s second lien,
for $8,729.35, involved providing materials to International Electric for the
“SpaceX Raptor Nest project.” It billed International
Electric, SpaceX, its shell
company Dogleg Park LLC
and NM Contracting LLC
multiple times and was not
paid.
Another lien shows
SpaceX owes Consolidated
Electrical Distributors Inc.
$19,600 for providing materials to Pro Con Services
LLC for work at SpaceX’s
Massey’s test facility. Consolidated Electrical billed
the parties involved multiple times between August
and January before filing
the lien in January.
Alamo Concrete Products also has a lien against
SpaceX property. In its January filing, the company

MATAGORDA SHIP CHANNEL TO HIGH ISLAND OUT 20
TO 50 MILES: Wind from the
southeast at 7-14 knots today.
Seas 2 feet or less. Visibility
clear to the horizon. Tonight:
Wind from the southeast at
8-16 knots. Seas 2 feet or less.
Mostly cloudy.

GALVESTON TIDES
Highs Feet
1:35 p.m. 1.4
--- ---

Lows Feet
4:40 a.m. 0.3
--- ---

RIVERS, CREEKS AND
through 7 a.m. Tuesday
BAYOUS
Flood Latest 24-hr.
Location
stage stage chg.
Brays Bayou South Main 54 21.84 +4.66
Brazos River Bryan
43 32.19 +6.15
Hempstead 50 38.33 -0.62
Richmond
48 43.88 -1.10
Buffalo Bayou Piney Point 50 38.07 +5.21
Shepherd Dr. 23 10.39 +4.80
Clear Creek Friendswood 12 3.54 +0.25
Colorado R. Austin
29 11.95 +0.38
Bastrop
25 2.60 -0.01
La Grange
32 3.78 -0.11
Columbus
34 9.88 -0.11
Wharton
39 8.48 -0.19
Bay City
44 3.68 -0.96
Greens Bayou Eastex Fwy. 61 49.92 +9.61
Guadalupe R. Hunt
12 7.69 +0.02
Comfort
26 3.18 +0.01
Spring Branch 36 1.66 -0.03
New Braunfels 13 9.43 +0.01
Gonzales
31 11.69 -0.03
Cuero
20 7.67 +0.66
Victoria
21 5.94 +0.33
Dupont
20 10.60 +0.09
Little River Little River 30 14.91 -6.36
Cameron
30 13.60 +3.34
Navasota R. Easterly
19 26.30 +5.59
Neches River Evadale
19 18.97 +0.12
Pine Island B. Sour Lake
25 25.63 -0.38
Sabine River Bon Wier
30 33.15 +1.90
Deweyville 24 25.77 +0.05
Orange
4 2.12 -0.29
Burkeville
43 33.22 +1.91
San Bernard R. E. Bernard
17 11.23 +3.19
E. San. Jac. R. Cleveland
19 16.62 +5.60
W. San. Jac. R. Conroe
116 100.73 +1.50
San Jacinto R. Sheldon
10 3.20 -0.55
Sims Bayou Telephone Rd. 30 3.75 +0.46
Trinity River Goodrich
36 38.31 +1.10
Liberty
26 30.23 -0.07
Village Creek Kountze
20 12.78 +0.94
White Oak B. Heights Blvd. 48 18.28 +8.50

TEXAS LAKES
through 7 a.m. Tuesday

Canyon Dam
Conroe
Houston
Lake Travis
Livingston

Full Latest Release
pool level
cfs
909 886.33
63
201 201.30 1590
41.73 42.74 N.A.
681 632.47 106
131 131.80

claims $19,700 for materials
and work provided to Pro
Con Services, also on the
Massey’s project. It billed
those involved multiple
times before filing the lien.
SpaceX also owes the
former Travis Industries
LLC more than $57,000, according to two open liens.
In November 2021, Travis Industries said it’s owed
$40,560 for work completed between April and August 2021 on a property on
Boca Chica Boulevard. In
March 2022, the company
said it’s owed $16,611.05 for
rental scaffolding, related
labor and materials for
work accomplished on the
same property.
Travis Industries became Axis Industries in July 2022, and, according to
Cameron County records,
the lien remains unresolved.
None of the companies
responded to requests for
comment.

HOUSTON CHRONICLE | HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 E1

E2 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

HOUSTON CHRONICLE | HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM

Look
Lookfor
foryour
yourgrocery
grocerycoupons
couponsinside!
inside!
ADVICE: Medicare enrollment explained. A2

LAKE HOUSTON AREA
Look for grocery
coupons inside
HUMBLE | KINGWOOD | ATASCOCITA | EAST MONTGOMERY
YOURLAKEHOUSTONNEWS.COM

•

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

• VOL. 27, NO. 20

•

50 CENTS

AN EDITION OF

Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer

New Caney residents soon will be able to enjoy a nearly 200-acre park, which includes trails for walking and biking, a dog park, playground, skate park and an
overnight camping area.

PLAYING AROUND
District plans park in New Caney area

By Michael Garcia
STA FF WRIT E R

New Caney residents soon will be
able to enjoy a nearly 200-acre park,
which includes trails for walking
and biking, a dog park, playground,
skate park and an overnight camping area.
During an East Montgomery
County Improvement District meeting in March, a spokesperson for
Burditt Consultants LLC showed
plans for a two-phase park expected
to be built at FM 1485 along Caney
Creek.
While no official timeline has
been established for the park, a dog
park is expected to be built within 12
months, said Kelley Mattlage, chief
communications officer for the district.
This comes months after the Conroe-based architecture firm announced it was making plans for a
400-acre park in the Woodforest
community in Montgomery.
“This is a really great piece of
property that includes heavily wooded areas as well as natural ponds we
can take advantage of to plan

East Montgomery County Improvement District

Plans show the first phase of the park expected to be built in New
Caney off FM 1495.

around,” said David Lestage, landscape architect with the firm, in a
written statement. “We think there
are opportunities for things like
boardwalks and even fishing, and an

area further away that could provide
an excellent spot for some overnight
camping options for groups like the
Boy Scouts.”
The first phase of the park will be

SPORTS

HOUSING

BRONZE
MEDALIST

GROWTH
MARKET

PAGE A3

PAGE A6

Kingwood High golfer
Bella Flores celebrated a
bronze medal in the state
golf tournament.

New Caney and Porter
are among the hottest
residential real estate
markets in the country.

64-acres and will include a dog park,
a bicycle playground/pump track,
covered shelter and parking, according to a release from the district.
Phase two will include a playground, a canopy walk and a lawn
area, the release states.
The master plan beyond phase
two proposes several hiking and biking trails, a trail around a pond, a
boardwalk, a fishing pier, a skate
park and an overnight camping area.
A sign also was proposed to be
placed within the park to highlight
the conservation and preservation of
floodplains and native wildlife and
plants.
“Reaching the finish line by assembling 200 acres within a fiveminute drive of the city limits of
Houston is a monumental accomplishment, with this effort beginning
about two years ago,” said Frank
McCrady, president and CEO of the
East Montgomery County Improvement District, in a written statement.
“This is a legacy project for EMCID.
We can’t wait to begin to enhance the
naturally occurring features of this
park for families to enjoy for years to
come.”

A2 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

THE OBSERVER

ADVICE
HOME IMPROVEMENT

Zinsser hits the spot for antique furniture
Many of my
customers have
furniture from
their parents or
relatives that
mean so much
Trudy
to them. It
Chuoke
might have been
Mom’s dressing
H AP PY
H A N DYMA N
table, or Dad’s
bedside table
and just looking at them brings
back many memories. I have a
few things that I have kept
from my late husband, and I
just like having them in the
house...a sweet remembrance
of the time we had together.
But sometimes the furniture
pieces that you get from your
family have been in storage. I
have this friend who collected
from her mom’s estate. The
furniture and clothing had
been stored in a barn. A very

stinky barn. And the furniture
had adsorbed all the odor.
She told me about all the
different things she tried before
coming to me. She tried airing
it out, she put charcoal in the
drawers, she cleaned it with a
degreaser, but the furniture
smelled so bad she couldn’t
keep it in the house. So she
asked me for help.
Zinsser makes great primers.
Primers for sheetrock that is
crumbling, primers for peeling
paint and a primer for odor.
Older furniture is made so well,
all wood no composite or laminates and that old wood can be
a sponge absorbing odors.
Odor Killing Primer can be
painted on a surface, and it will
seal in the offensive smell. My
friend sealed all the drawers
and the inside of the drawer.
Then she wanted to put a new

finish on the outside of the
furniture, and I suggested Varathane. Her pieces now made
their way into the house.
Another way to use Zinsser
is on kitchen cabinets. If you
had smoke damage from a
kitchen fire and nothing gets
rid of the odor in the cabinets.
You don’t have to have your
whole kitchen torn down. Try
Zinsser first. I used it on my
kitchen cabinets because the
previous owner was a smoker.
That smoke permeated into the
cabinets and when I would
leave for a trip and come backthe whole house had this lingering smell like someone had
been smoking inside my house.
When I finally figured out
what was causing the odor…..I
used Zinsser. All I had to do
was seal the inside of all the
cabinets, and there was no

lingering odor when I returned
from the trip. And this primer
goes on milky so you can see
where you have applied the
primer and then dries clear.

Now to some great
email…..

Question: After listening
to your Saturday afternoon
show on WOAI, I have decided to remove the silicone
caulk in my shower. So how
can I remove the caulk and
what caulk would you suggest that I replace for the
silicone?
Answer: Contractor’s DeSolv-It is great for removing
silicone caulk. First, use a single edged razor blade to cut the
caulk right down the middlw
and along each side. Then
spray the caulk with De-Solv-It.
Spray every 15 minutes for an

hour. Then re-caulk with Sashco Sealant Clean Seal. It has a
7-year guarantee to resist mildew. Allow 48 hours to cure.
Question: I have slippery
steps on a small outdoor
deck. I know that you paint
them with a texture paint,
but I love the color of the
deck and I don’t want to
change that – so is there
something else that is not an
abrasive tread.
Answer: Absolutely yes!
There is a tread that is soft to
the touch but will provide traction and a safe step. They are
called Handi Treads. I like
them because they are translucent and don’t stand out on the
deck. You can use Handi
Treads on wet surfaces also like
in the tub and shower.
www.happyhandyman.com

HEALTH CARE

Medicare enrollment process explained
Toni: I need
to make the
right Medicare
decision because I turn 65
in August and
have
not had a
Toni
health plan for
King
2 years. I do
M E D ICA RE
not know
ADV IC E
where to start
or what to do.
My friends are advising me if
I do not sign up for Medicare
when I turn 65, I will be making a major Medicare mistake.
Can you please simplify the
Medicare enrollment process?
Thanks, Toni
Cynthia, Alvin

Hi Cynthia: Medicare is exploding with an American turning 65 every 8 seconds.
The Medicare basics America
needs to know are:

1) Remember to enroll at the

right time:

a) Turning 65 and receiving
your Social Security check, your
“Welcome to Medicare” kit will
be mailed to you with your
Medicare card 90 days before
you turn 65.
b) Turning 65 and NOT receiving your Social Security check and
not working full time with true
employer group health insurance from either you or your
spouse’s work, you may want to
enroll in Medicare Parts A and
B online via www.ssa.gov.
c) Turning 65, working full-time
with “true” employer group health
insurance whether through your
or your spouse’s employer benefits may want to delay enrolling
in Medicare until you or your
spouse retire or are laid off.

2) Medicare is not free

Medicare covers a lot and
there is a cost associated with
Medicare Parts A and B. The

premium for Part A is at no cost
if you worked 10 years or 40
quarters and paid Medicare
taxes. Medicare Part B has a
premium which is means-tested
depending on your annual income. In 2024, most Medicare
beneficiaries pay $174.70 each
month for their Part B premium. Medicare Part A (hospital)
deductible for 2024 is $1,632, not
once a year but is every 60 days
or 6 times a year. The 2024
Medicare Part B deductible is
$240 once a year with Medicare
paying 80% of the Medicareapproved amount and you paying the remaining 20%.

3) Learn the different
Medicare Parts (A, B, C and
D)
Original Medicare is Medicare Parts A and B which covers hospital, medical and provider expenses. Medicare Part
C, known as Medicare Ad-

vantage plan, is another way of
receiving your Medicare benefits. Part D is the Medicare
Prescription Drug plan that can
be a stand-alone plan with Original Medicare and a Medicare
Supplement, or with a Medicare
Advantage plan that includes a
prescription drug plan.

4) “Original” Medicare

Original Medicare Parts A
and B have no network. Medicare Part A covers in-patient
hospital, skilled nursing/rehab
facility, home health and hospice care. Medicare Part B covers doctor services whether at
the office or surgical care, outpatient surgery/services, lab/Xrays, MRIs, durable medical
equipment, and preventative
services.

5) Medicare Advantage Plan
(MAPD)
You must be enrolled in Orig-

inal Medicare to qualify for a
Medicare Advantage Plan and
can select various Medicare
Advantage plans (Medicare Part
C) such as an HMO or PPO
plans that are offered by private
insurance companies. A MAPD
plan has an insurance provider
network with health care professionals or facilities that provide lower in-network rates.
You do not use your Medicare
(red, white, and blue) card because Medicare will pay the
MAPD plan for your care. You
will have co-pays, deductibles
and maximum out-of-pocket
costs associated with your
medical care.
Confused about Medicare Workshop in Katy is “Live” Thursday,
May 23 at 6 p.m. at Spring Creek
BBQ-Katy, 21000 Katy Frwy,
Katy, TX. 77449. RSVP:832/5198664 or visit www.tonisays.com.
Dinner not included.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A3

THE OBSERVER

Kingwood High golfer earns bronze medal
By Marcus Gutierrez
STA FF WRIT E R

GEORGETOWN — Kingwood golfer Bella Flores envisioned herself on the medal stand
at the Class 6A state golf tournament, just as any other senior
would in wrapping up their high
school career.
Flores accomplished her goal,
taking home a bronze medal after
tying Austin Westlake’s Isabel
Emanuels at 1 under par at White
Wing Golf Club on Tuesday afternoon.
“When I was a freshman, I always wanted to medal at state,”
Flores said. “Each year I have
been slowly getting better, and finally I placed in the top three,
which was my goal coming into
the season. I’m really happy with
all that I accomplished. I couldn’t
have asked for a better run at it,
and I’m really happy with how I
played.”
Austin Vandergrift finished in
first place to take home the team

title at 10-over 586, followed by
San Antonio Reagan (591) and
Coppell (602).
Vandergrift’s Swetha Sathsih
shot a 4-under 68 on the final day
to finish at 6-under 138 for the
tournament. Her teammate Sydney Givens shot a two-day total of
142 (2 under) to take home the silver medal.
Paced by Flores, Kingwood
finished in fifth place at 613, 37
strokes above par. The James
Madison signee stood 2 over in
her final round before an eagle on
the 12th hole and a birdie on the
13th to get to 1 under.
“I kind of was telling myself
that it was my last high school
tournament and I need to make
the most of it,” Flores said. “I had
a great opportunity, and I took
advantage of it. It felt so good to
get back, and then I just finished
par the rest of the way. I finished
out strong, and I couldn’t be any
happier right now.”
Flores took first place individually at the District 21-6A tourna-

ment and Region III-6A tournament and now has a bronze state
medal to add to her Kingwood accomplishments.
“I have shown that hard work
pays off,” Flores said. “The other
girls can use that as motivation to
continue to get better. I have enjoyed my time at Kingwood, and I
have shown the girls that are going to be here next year that they
can do exactly what I can do.”
Kingwood coach Susan Willis
was proud to see Flores on the
medal stand.
“She played awesome shooting
1 under par,” Willis said. “She
works hard, and she plays hard.
She has a great work ethic. She’s
willing to help other girls with
their game regardless of what level they’re at. One word to describe
Bella is excellence. I know she
wanted to finish first, but she did
a great job with the two days that
we were here.”
Jersey Village’s Daniela Palmeros, who was making her third
straight state tournament ap-

Kirk Sides/Staff photographer

Helped by Tuesday’s eagle on the 12th hole and birdie on the
13th, Kingwood’s Bella Flories was able to finish a stroke under
par in taking third place at the girls Class 6A state golf
tournament.

pearance, tied for fifth place at
even-par 144 with San Antonio
Reagan’s Lydia Portlock.

Klein Cain’s Zoe Hobbs finished in a six-way tie for ninth
with a two-day total of 146.

Montgomery County eyes storm damage assistance
By Catherine Dominguez
STAFF WRIT E R

Several days after back-toback rain events flooded the region, Montgomery County officials believe the local damage
could meet the state threshold
needed to get federal funds to
help with recovery efforts.
Since last week, the Houston
area has received more than 20
inches of rain.
Montgomery County commissioners took action on several items Tuesday to help residents begin the recovery process. Here’s what to know:

Montgomery County urges
residents to report damage

During a news conference
last week, Gov. Greg Abbott said
residents need to report the
damage to their homes and that
it is critical for the state to receive federal funds to help recover from the flood.
Jason Millsaps, executive director of the county’s Office of
Emergency Management, said

Monday the initial estimate of
homes damaged in the county
was about 1,500, most of them
with major damage.
“A lot of resources from (the
Texas Division of Emergency
Management and the Federal
Emergency Management Agency) will be in the county through
the rest of the week,” Millsaps
said Tuesday. “We believe we
will hit that claim number for
the whole state.”
Nim Kidd, chief of the Texas
Division of Emergency Management, said reporting damage is
important.
“Damage assessment is critical to our future success,” Kidd
said of reaching the threshold
for federal assistance. “We need
800 homes with major damage
or destroyed that are uninsured
to be able to qualify for FEMA
assistance.”
Millsaps said once that
threshold is met, Abbott can
certify that information to President Joe Biden who will then approve the use of federal funds locally.

“(The Texas Division of
Emergency Management) is
very confident we will meet that
threshold,” Millsaps said.

Montgomery County
extends disaster
declaration

Commissioners agreed to extend a disaster declaration issued by Montgomery County
Judge Mark Keough on May 2.
The declaration will expire
June 5 unless the court agrees to
a second extension.
“We typically have done this
in times of crisis,” Keough said
during the court’s meeting. “We
do it for the purpose we know
we are in the beginning stages of
recovery and there are going to
be expenses.”
Keough issued the declaration after Abbott issued a disaster declaration April 30 for the
severe storms and flooding that
began across more than 90
counties, including Montgomery County, April 26.
A disaster declaration is issued when an event or emergen-

cy exceeds the response and/or
recovery capabilities. The declaration allows public officials to
exercise emergency powers to
preserve life, property and public health.
The declarations are needed
to obtain federal financial assistance for residents and local and
state jurisdictions in an area affected to begin recovery efforts.

ment of their property value if
the damage significantly affects
its market value.
The deadline to apply for the
exemption is Aug 13.
Property owners can apply
for the exemption online
through the appraisal district.

Disaster exemption
available for flood-affected
residents

Commissioners agreed Tuesday to waive permit fees for residents who will rebuild or repair
flood-damaged homes. Those
fees are between $150 and $200.
John McKinney, flood plain
administrator for the county,
said the county has taken similar action after previous emergencies.
“(We) have waived the fees to
simply provide an incentive for
property owners to be in contact
with the county to go through
the permitting process to make
sure they do complete those permits appropriately,” McKinney
said. “It’s a goodwill gesture by
the county.”

Montgomery County Tax Assessor-Collector Tammy McRae
said a change in state law allows
residents to request the exemption.
“They can do that through the
Montgomery Central Appraisal
District,” McRae said.
McRae said the minimum required for the exemption is 15%
damage.
According to the appraisal
district, because a disaster declaration has been issued for
Montgomery County, property
owners can request a reassess-

Montgomery County to
waive permit fees for
residents

A4 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

THE OBSERVER

HEALTH

Intermittent fasting has its risks
Q: I read a recent headline
that said people who fast
intermittently have an increased risk of heart disease.
Is there merit
to this story?
A: Intermittent fasting is an
increasingly
common weightloss strategy. The
two most comDr. Keith
mon approaches
Roach
of intermittent
TO YOU R
fasting are alG O OD
H E ALT H
ternate-day
fasting (eating
nothing one day, then whatever
you want the next) and timerestricted feeding (eating at certain times in the day, usually in
an eight-hour time frame).
The published data on the
benefits of these diets show
short-term weight loss (i.e., 12
weeks), but no long-term weight
loss (one year), compared to
standard dietary advice.
There is evidence of potential
harm from intermittent fasting.
Studies have shown an increased
risk of eating disorders (particularly binge eating). One study
showed that disordered eating
worsened in those assigned to an
intermittent fasting schedule.
However, other studies do not
show this.
The concern for disordered
eating is highest among younger
and female populations, who are
most at risk for eating disorders,
and I advise against intermittent
fasting for a person with a history of an eating disorder.
The study you read about was
presented as an abstract in the
March meeting of the American
Heart Association; it is not yet
published or peer-reviewed. But
it did show that people who
report an intermittent-fasting
diet (specifically those who ate
over an eight-hour time frame)
were at a higher risk for death
from heart disease than those
who ate over a 12-16 hour time
frame.
However, this wasn’t a controlled study, and it is likely that
people who chose a time-restricted eating pattern already
had issues that put them at a
higher risk for heart disease.
Still, given the absence of
long-term benefits, I don’t generally recommend a time-restricted diet or intermittent fasting to
my patients.
My colleagues in weight medicine consider intermittent fasting
to be an option that helps a subset of people. There are some
people who do benefit from this
type of diet, and as long as they

Getty Images

The idea behind intermittent fasting is that brief periods of little to no caloric intake will help you lose weight, influence your
metabolism, help your circadian biology (sleep cycles) and enhance the gut microbiome.

are eating well and are being
monitored by their physician,
they should continue to follow
their diet if it is working for
them.
Q: As a person who has had
vocal cord paralysis after a
viral infection, I was fortunate not to need many of the
outlined modes of care. However, there was one additional
therapy that was utilized
within my plan of care —
speech therapy. It took a
while, but it worked well.
I suppose I may have some
lingering weakness. When I
experience a new viral upper
respiratory infection, I often
experience prolonged hoarseness. So, I pull out my exercise sheet once again, practice
the techniques and experience the same great results.
A: I thank the reader for
writing, as I should have recommended voice therapy for people
with vocal cord paralysis, as well
as those with other voice issues.
Some ear, nose and throat
physicians, speech-language
pathologists, respiratory therapists and voice coaches specialize in voice therapy.
Q: I read last year that

nearly 20 million Americans
were living with long COVID,
but I understand that the
number is much higher now.
Can you explain exactly what
long COVID is and how it is
treated?
A: Persistent symptoms after
an infection are not unique to
COVID. Many people will have
cough or asthma exacerbations
for weeks or even months after
a bad flu infection.
Likewise, many people have
symptoms (relating to many
different body systems) after
recovering from COVID. The
Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention and the World
Health Organization differ on
the amount of time after an
infection that has to pass for it
to be considered “long COVID”
— four weeks and three
months, respectively.
The most common physical
symptoms of long COVID are
fatigue, shortness of breath and
muscle aches. In one study of
people who survived the initial
wave of COVID, 45% had at
least one persistent physical
symptom.
The most common and persistent neurological/psychological symptoms are anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress

disorder and cognition problems (“brain fog”). Up to 25% of
COVID survivors had one of
these symptoms after their
physical recovery. This was
higher than other respiratory
viruses, such as influenza.
For those who required a stay
in the intensive care unit, over
75% had physical, psychological
or cognitive symptoms after
their discharge. These survivors
are at the highest risk for prolonged and severe long-COVID
symptoms.
There are many hypotheses
for the underlying cause of
long-COVID symptoms, and
although there is some evidence, it’s not clear whether
there is one single cause or
whether multiple mechanisms
are possible.
I wish I could get better results from the available treatments. Essentially, we treat each
patient’s concerns the same way
we would if the person hadn’t
had COVID. Emphasis on sleep,
nutrition and exercise are critical. But we should still recognize that many people with long
COVID have symptoms that are
very similar to myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome. As such, exercise should
not be overdone, since this can

worsen post-exertional symptoms.
Q: Do MRI tests, especially
of the head, contribute to
hearing loss even when earplugs are used?
A: MRI scans are very loud,
and exposure to loud noises can
cause hearing loss. However, it’s
the prolonged and repeated
exposure to loud noises that is
most likely to cause hearing
damage, so MRI scans are not
likely to be a problem. Earplugs
are still a good idea, though.
There is nothing about the
strong magnetic field in an MRI
machine that adversely affects
hearing. They just make a lot of
noise due to the moving electrical coils. Some machines can
cause levels up to 110 decibels —
as loud as a rock concert.
New MRI technology is coming that will dramatically reduce
the amount of noise made during a scan.
Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable
to answer individual letters, but
will incorporate them in the column
whenever possible. Readers may
email questions to ToYourGood
Health@med.cornell.edu or send
mail to 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803.

NAC supplement helped reader stop nail biting
sweetened beverages (European
Journal of Endocrinology, Jan. 3,
2024).
Others who would like to
learn more about this approach
can find further details along
with information on medications in our “eGuide to Acne
Solutions.” This online resource
is located under the Health
eGuides tab at Peoples
Pharmacy.com.

JOE AND TERESA
GRAEDON
PE OPLE ’S PHA RMACY

Q: I’ve been a nail-biter
since I was a kid. The only
way I had nice nails was to
spend a fortune at a salon.
When I learned that NAC
(N-acetylcysteine) is known
to help with BFRBs, bodyfocused repetitive behaviors,
such as nail biting, hair pulling or skin picking, I decided
to try it. After a few months
of taking this supplement, I
had beautiful, natural fingernails for the first time in my
entire life. A most welcome
extra benefit of NAC for me
is that I have absolutely no
desire for alcohol and my
appetite and craving for unhealthy foods are just gone.
My primary care doc is
fairly progressive, but he
knew nothing about NAC
other than its use in the
emergency room to reverse
acetaminophen overdose. He
gave me the stamp of approval after seeing the changes in
me. I take several supplements, but this one has had
the most profound and positive change in my overall
health.
A: Thank you so much for a
fascinating testimonial. As your
doctor told you, NAC is “the
mainstay of therapy for acet-

LWA-Dann Tardif/Getty Images

Very little research has been conducted on the use of N-acetylcysteine supplements to treat
body-focused repetitive behaviors, such as nail biting or hair pulling.

aminophen toxicity” (StatPearls,
Feb. 19, 2023). The Food and
Drug Administration approved
it for this indication in 1985.
There is far less research on
its use to control body-focused
repetitive behaviors with a compulsive component, such as nail
biting or hair pulling. A review
of the research noted that only a
few clinical trials of NAC for this
purpose have been conducted
(International Journal of Environmental Research and Public
Health, May 2022).

We haven’t seen any studies
showing that NAC can reduce
the urge for alcohol or junk
food. However, a small study in
Indonesia demonstrated that it
helped men stop smoking (Cureus, Feb. 16, 2024).
NAC has a good safety profile.
It may cause nausea, vomiting or
diarrhea, and occasionally, people develop reactions such as a
rash or flushing. Headache,
hives or fever may occur at the
high doses used to treat acetaminophen toxicity (American

Family Physician, Aug. 1, 2009).
Q: My 16-year-old daughter
had terrible acne. She gave
up sugar, dairy and gluten,
and her acne disappeared
within six weeks. She has
beautiful skin now.
A: It sounds like your daughter found a great solution. Studies show that avoiding milk and
other dairy products can be
helpful for those with acne (Nutrients, Oct. 17, 2023). It also
makes sense to avoid sugar-

Q: I have a question about
the amount of elemental zinc
that would be safe to take per
day. My supplement has 7
milligrams of elemental zinc
per tablet. When I looked it
up, the American Academy of
Family Physicians says that
the tolerable upper limit of
elemental zinc per day is 40
milligrams. How much zinc
could I take without interfering with copper?
A: The Recommended Dietary Allowance for Adults is 8
milligrams for women and 11
milligrams for men. Your question is sophisticated. Excess zinc
intake, which might occur at
doses of 50 milligrams/day for
weeks, can interfere with copper
absorption and reduce immune
function. The Food and Nutrition Board (FNB) at the National
Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine has established 40 milligrams daily as
the tolerable upper limit of zinc
for adults.
Write to Joe and Teresa Graedon in
care of King Features, 628 Virginia
Drive, Orlando, FL 32803, or
email them via their website:
PeoplesPharmacy.com.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A5

THE OBSERVER

Houston area among worst U.S. cities for driving
By Shakari Briggs
STA FF WRIT E R

Driving in Texas continues to get a bad rap.
Houston ranked as one of
the worst cities to drive
in, according to a new report by Forbes Advisor.
“Drivers lose an average of 11 hours per year in
traffic in the Houston,
Texas area,” the report
says. “It ranks 12th worst
for access to car maintenance, thanks in part to
the Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land metro
area having the seventh
fewest car repair shops at
1.89 per 10,000 residents.”
Houston, which landed
fourth on the list, received a score of 96.52,
with 100 being the worst
possible score. Additionally, the report showed
Space City ranked 12th
worst for overall driving
experience. Analysts also
found drivers experience
the 11th longest average
commute time at 30 minutes and nine seconds,
not to mention Houston
tied with Atlanta when it
comes to the amount of
time drivers spend in
traffic — 74 hours annually.

Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer

Houston traffic is among the worst in the country, according to a new survey.

The report indicated
drivers in the Houston
metro area spend the 11th
highest amount on gas,

$1,257 a year, because of
traffic congestion. Houston had the 12th slowest
average speed in down-

town at 16 miles per hour.
“Travel on the nation’s
highways and streets
climbed by 2.1% in 2023 to

3.3 trillion miles, setting a
new annual record, according to the Department of Transportation,”

the report says. “However, drivers in some cities
have it worse than others
during their daily commute due to frequent car
accidents, heavy traffic
congestion, high gas prices and challenges with accessing
car
maintenance.”
Forbes Advisor analysts compared 47 of the
most populated cities
across 15 metrics to figure
out the worst cities to
drive in. The metrics categories included driving
experience, safety, cost of
car ownership and access
to car maintenance. Ultimately, Oakland topped
the list as the worst to
drive in followed by Miami,
San
Francisco,
Houston and Philadelphia. Two cities in North
Carolina — Charlotte and
Raleigh — ended up being
the best cities to drive in,
per the data.
“Drivers in Oakland,
California have the worst
driving experience out of
the 47 cities we evaluated,
thanks to its high number
of fatal car accidents,
steep gas prices and a
high average commute
time workers face each
day,” the report says.

EVs make bestseller list
in local auto sales for ’23
By Nusaiba Mizan
STAFF WRIT E R

Two all-electric vehicles, both from Tesla, became the first of their
kind to rank among the
Houston area’s bestselling models last year, according to Houstonbased InfoNation Inc.
Tesla’s Model Y SUV
debuted on the list at No.
10 while the Model 3 made
its first appearance at No.
18. More than 5,000 of the
Model Y and 4,000 Model
3s were sold last year. Tesla cut the prices of both in
2023.
RoShelle Salinas, executive vice president of the
Houston
Automobile
Dealers
Association,
called the rising popularity of electric vehicles “exciting to see for the first
time for us.”
“They’ve got plenty of
variety to choose from,
which makes it easier to
commit to an electric vehicle — along with partners like the energy providers and groups like
Evolve Houston, and the
different apps and charging stations,” Salinas
said.
InfoNation’s ranking
uses state Department of
Motor Vehicle records
from Harris and nine surrounding counties.
It will surprise no one
that the region’s top-selling vehicles are pickups.
The Ford F-150 topped the
list in 2022 and 2023,
while the Chevrolet Silve-

rado 1500 was second
both years. Pickups occupied four of the top 10
spots.
Sales of both models,
however, declined in the
Houston area and nationally, InfoNation wrote in
its report. Nearly 15,000
F-150s and 10,000 Silverado 1500s were sold in the
region in 2023.
In Houston, two SUVs
jumped into the top 10:
The Honda CR-V rose to
sixth from No. 18 in 2022

while the Mazda CX-5
jumped to eighth from
No. 22. SUVs grabbed five
of the top 10 spots.
“You get what you need
as a higher-level vehicle,
especially in the high waters that we can sometimes see in Houston,”
Salinas said. “You can fit
your family, and all of
their sporting equipment.”
Among sedans, the
Toyota Camry was the top
choice at No. 4.

shipDir

or

Kirk Sides/Staff photographer

The Ford F-150 pickup truck was the top-selling vehicle model in the Houston
region in 2022 and 2023, according to sales data compiled by InfoNation Inc.

A6 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

THE OBSERVER

Porter, New Caney high on buyer’s lists
By Marissa Luck
STA FF WRIT E R

Three Montgomery County
communities topped a recent
list for the hottest residential
markets in the Houston area,
underscoring how homebuyers
are flocking to new construction
in the suburbs as they adjust to
higher mortgage rates.
Porter/New Caney West, near
Interstate 69 and the Grand
Parkway, experienced the biggest percentage spike in home
sales in the Houston area in the
first quarter, expanding 121%
year-over-year to 263 transactions, according to a new report
from Houston Association of
Realtors.
Conroe Southeast ranked second on the list with total sales
jumping nearly 86% to 273 in the
first quarter.
The report ranks the “hottest” communities based on the
percentage increase in transactions in a given area each quarter.
Newly constructed homes accounted for a staggering 68% of
all home sales in the Porter/New
Caney West and Conroe Southeast areas in the first quarter, according to HAR. And in three of
the other hottest communities
highlighted by HAR — the Crosby area, Cleveland area and
Conroe Northeast — new construction accounted for at least
half of all sales activity.
“We’re seeing a trend of consumers prioritizing affordability without sacrificing lifestyle,”
said HAR Chair Thomas Mouton with Century 21 Exclusive
Properties. “Many of these suburban communities are responding with a surge of new
construction, offering modern
homes at attractive price
points.”
Since mortgage rates spiked
in mid-2022, new-home construction has helped to fill the
gap in existing housing inventory in the Houston area. Although homebuyers are benefiting from a growing inventory of
available homes in Houston,

Glenn Louis Bell
1927 ~ 2024

A Celebration of Glenn
Bell’s Life, age 96, of Pineland, Texas, will be at 1:00
p.m., Friday, May 3, 2024,
at Stringer & Griffin Funeral Home Chapel in Jasper,
Texas with burial with military honors to follow at Lone
Star Cemetery in McElroy
just south of Pineland, Texas.
Visitation will be from 12:00
p.m., until the time of the
service at the funeral home.
Glenn Louis Bell slipped
peacefully from this earthly
plane, surrounded by family
in the early morning hours of
Saturday, April 27, in San Augustine, Texas not far from his
birthplace in Pineland. Glenn
was born at home on Cherry
Street on October 24, 1927,
to Mae and Louis Bell, who
was a longtime employee of
Temple Lumber Co. He completed all years of schooling
in Pineland, where he was an
honor student, played saxophone in the Pineland High
School Band, starred on the
Pineland Indians basketball
team and graduated with
academic honors as class
valedictorian in 1944.
He began classes at Texas
A&M University on D-Day,
June 6, 1944, where he was
on the track team and was
the only Sabine County native
in history to letter in a varsity
sport at Texas A&M University. He also served as Class
President for Texas A&M’s
Class of ‘48, as a member
of A&M’s Stu-dent Council,
a member of the Y Cabinet,
a member of the Student
Life Committee and as Company Commanding Officer
of “A” Battery of Field Artillery in the Corps of Cadets.
He was a 100 percenter who
“bled maroon” and remained
an active supporter of the
university, attending many
football games and Lettermen’s Association events in
College Station through the
years and ultimately creating
the Glenn L. ‘48 and Carolyn
“Pat” Bell Scholarship for accomplished students from
Sabine County who are plan-

Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer file

Workers pour concrete for a driveway as home construction continues in the Conroe area, which ranked among the top-selling
communities in Houston area.

they still have to figure out how
to make their budgets stretch as
mortgage rates remain relatively
high. New-home builders often
can offer incentives to help buyers reduce their mortgage rates.
Within Porter/New Caney
West, about 30 miles northeast
of Houston, the subdivisions
topping the list of highest sales
were Tavola West, Pinewood at
Grand Texas and The Highlands, according to HAR.

ning to enroll at Texas A&M.
Glenn graduated from Texas A&M University in College
Station with degrees in petroleum and mechanical engineering at the age of 21. He
served his country in the U.S.
Army and after fulfillment of
his military service he had a
lengthy career as an engineer
with Mobil Oil/Mobil Chemical
Company, beginning in Beaumont, Texas where he went
to night school and earned
his BBA degree in Business
Administration from Lamar
University and met his future
wife, Carolyn Reese, whom
he affectionately called “Pat”
before being married in 1960,
and then transferred to London, England for four years,
then back to Beaumont and
then to the Mobil offices at
Greenway Plaza in Houston.
They raised their two daughters, Glenna and Susan, in
Kingwood, Texas and enjoyed
many family times and times
with close friends. Attending
the Church of Christ where
he was a dedicated lifelong
member, enjoying delightful
home-cooked suppers and
much-valued con-versation
around the dining room table
and the unforgettable Sunday dinners Mama made.
Weekend trips to Happy Return—the family retreat in
McElroy near Pineland—
and to the wonderful Reese
family gatherings in Orange,
Texas, singing along in the
car to the sheet music Dad
supplied. Quiet purposeful
evenings at the Trails End
Stables in Kingwood and
showing Welsh ponies all
over Texas, Louisiana, and
Oklahoma to the tune of Willie Nelson’s “On the Road
Again.” The annual holiday
visits from sister, Dot; niece,
Phyllis; and great-nephews,
Josh and Luke. The birth
of a beloved grandson and
watching him grow day by
day . . .
For so many precious
memories, we are grateful.
Glenn is survived by his
wife of almost 64 years, Carolyn “Pat” Bell of Pineland,
Texas; daughters, Glenna Bell
of Houston and Susan Ferrier
and husband, Kevin of Porter;
grandson, Kevin Ferrier, Jr.
of Pineland, Texas; and Daryl
Montgomery, longtime friend
of the family, Houston, Texas.
He was preceded in death
by his son, Glenn Jr.; and
daughter, Belinda; his parents, Louis and Mae Bell; and
sister, Dorothy “Dot” McGee.
Services are under the direction of Stringer & Griffin
Funeral Home of Jasper.

Within Conroe Southeast,
Ladera Creek, Mavera and Ladera Trails were the highest-selling subdivisions in the first
quarter, HAR said.
Most of these subdivisions
are offering more affordable,
mid-price new homes, said
Lawrence Dean, president of the
real estate data consultancy
Community Builders Advisory
Services.
Dean said it isn’t surprising to

see growing sales in any of these
communities, especially those
in Conroe east of I-45.
“Conroe is one of the fastest
growing cities in the region and
the state,” Dean said. “These
areas feature some of the most
affordably priced new homes
that are within an easy commuting distance to employment centers in The Woodlands and elsewhere in north Houston.”
Conroe
Northeast
also

ranked fourth on HAR’s list of
hottest communities with a 48%
jump in sales across its 176
transactions.
When looking specifically at
sales — rather than percentage
increase in activity — the communities with the greatest number during the first quarter include Cypress South (572 transactions), Katy Old Towne (537),
and Lake Conroe (477), according data from HAR.

Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer

Workers test for utility line as construction to widen Nichols Sawmill Road continued in 2023 in Magnolia.
After almost a decade, Montgomery County commissioners are exploring crafting a bond referendum to put
to voters this November to help fund needed infrastructure projects.

Montgomery County considers
November road bond referendum
By Catherine
Dominguez
STA F F W R I T ER

After almost a decade,
Montgomery County commissioners are exploring
crafting a bond referendum to put to voters this
November to help fund
needed
infrastructure
projects.
“We got to do something,” County Judge
Mark Keough said Tuesday.
In November 2015, voters approved a $280 million bond that was pared
down after rejecting a
$350 million bond that
May.
John Robuck, the county’s investment adviser
with BOK Financial Securities, said that while there
are many “unknowns,”

the county does have several options.
In August, the county
approved its $419 million
budget with a tax rate of
36.96 cents per $100 valuation.
According to information provided by Robuck,
the county has dropped
the tax rate by 9.7 cents
per $100 valuation over
the last five years.
Additionally, the debt
service rate, which is part
of the total tax rate, has
dropped by 3.02 cents per
$100 valuation.
Robuck said the county’s taxable property has
grown by $5.6 billion in
the last six years.

Various road bond
options

Robuck said preliminary numbers indicated

the county could propose
a $165 million bond without raising the tax rate.
However, a $500 million
bond would increase the
tax rate by 1.5 cents per
$100 valuation, and a $750
million bond would increase that rate by 2.9
cents.
Robuck did not support
a $1 billion bond, which
would push the tax rate up
by 4.3 cents per $100 valuation.
He said a bond closer to
$500 to $600 million
would be a good target for
the county.
“I think we would all
agree roads are most important for what we need
to get done,” Keough said.
“We don’t want another
project getting in the way
of moving forward with a
road bond.”

Mobility needs and
projects

Both Precinct 4 Commissioner Matt Gray and
Precinct 2 Commissioner
Charlie Riley said they also get calls about mobility
needs in the county.
“I want to do a whole lot
of county work,” Riley
said. “I want to work on
every one of my county
roads. That’s where my
priorities are for me.”
However, Riley said
other residents have inquired about a new animal shelter, courthouse
and tax office.
Robuck said if the county wanted to fund other
projects, it could include
them as propositions.
Commissioners are expected to put together lists
of projects to bring back to
the court at a later date.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A7

THE OBSERVER

Region’s Latino residents playing big economic role
By Jhair Romero
STAFF WRIT E R

Houston-area Latinos
have played an outsized
role in growing the region’s economy in recent
years, according to a study
published this week.
From 2018 to 2021, Latinos were responsible for
68.3% of the metropolitan
area’s gross domestic
product growth despite
making up about 40% of
the population.
The study, funded by
Bank of America, found
the share of Latinos in the
Houston metro’s labor
force grew by 39% from
2010 to 2021, compared to
only 14% for non-Latinos
in the same period. Researchers from California
Lutheran University and
UCLA’s Center for the
Study of Latino Health
and Culture produced the
analysis.
“Those increased numbers have allowed the re-

gion to grow and prosper,
and jobs have been
brought to these areas and
businesses,” said longtime Houston Hispanic
Chamber of Commerce
President Laura Murillo.
She added that Houston
suburbs with growing Latino populations, such as
Katy and Spring, are some
of the biggest beneficiaries
of the growth.
Researchers cited the
Houston area’s young Latino population to explain
the economic boost in recent years. (About a third
of the city’s Hispanic population is under 18, and
43% is between 18 and 44,
according to the University of Houston’s Hobby
School of Public Affairs.)
The Cal Lutheran and
UCLA study said the metro’s coming-of-age Latinos are “overwhelmingly”
second- and third-generation Americans, and the
number of Latinos with a
bachelor’s degree grew at

Elizabeth Conley/Staff photographer

From 2018 to 2021, Latinos were responsible for
68.3% of the metropolitan area’s gross domestic
product growth despite making up about 40% of the
population.

a rate 2.9 times that of nonLatinos from 2010-21.
These shifts, though
more evident in the Houston area, have also played
out on larger scales despite the disproportionately high mortality rates
Latinos faced in the first
years of the COVID-19

pandemic.
The study said that in
2021, Latinos contributed
$581.2 billion to the Texas
economy, with the top sectors being finance and real
estate, government, professional and business
services, mining and
quarrying, and construc-

CLASSIFIED

tion.
And across the country,
the Latino population’s total economic output in
2021 was $3.2 trillion. The
Latino GDP grew by 7.1%
that year, about 2% more
than that of non-Latinos.
Murillo said she hopes
studies like this will influence how companies,
from small businesses to
large corporations, market toward and hire Latino
consumers and workers.
The purchasing power of
U.S. Latinos reached $3.4
trillion in 2021, according
to an Arizona State University study published
last year.
“I can’t imagine there’s
a corporation that can afford to overlook 45% of the
demographic,” she said,
referring to Latinos’ large
share of Houston’s population. “And these are not
anecdotal stories. These
are hard facts. It’s data.”
A recent census data release revealed that the

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o

Houston
metropolitan
area grew by almost
140,000 last year, with
Harris County accounting
for more than a third of
that growth.
Although the U.S. Census Bureau won’t release
more detailed demographic information —
such as population by age,
sex, race and Hispanic origin — until this summer,
the data shows much of
the county’s population
growth was fueled by international migration.
More than 41,100 immigrants moved to Harris
County last year, second
in the country only to
Florida’s
Miami-Dade
County. We won’t know
exactly how much Latinos
contributed to that population growth until June,
but Murillo sees a clear
trend.
“As go Hispanics, so
goes Houston,” Murillo
said. “And the rest of the
country for that matter.”

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Real Estate

NORTHEAST

Craig Moseley/Staff file photo

Buc-ee’s ranks fifth with an average starting wage of $18.18 an hour, according to
a new study. The outdoor apparel company Patagonia came in first with an
average wage of $21.88, followed by recreational equipment retailer REI with
$18.88.

Buc-ee’s touted for staff
pay, according to survey
By Richard Webner
CON T R IB U T OR

Buc-ee’s comes in first
place worldwide for the
size of its convenience
stores and length of its car
washes. It also ranks high
for employee salaries, according to a recent study.
The Texas-based gas
station chain ranks fifth
among U.S. retailers for
entry-level salaries with
an average starting wage
of $18.18 an hour, according to the study by Business Insider, which is
based on data provided by
the workplace review site
Glassdoor.
The outdoor apparel
company Patagonia came
in first with an average
wage of $21.88, followed by
recreational equipment
retailer REI with $18.88.
Costco and IKEA came in
third and fourth, with
wages of $18.57 and $18.50,
respectively.
The yoga apparel company Lululemon ranked
sixth with an average
wage of $18, according to
the study.
At a starting wage of
$18.18, a full-time worker
at Buc-ee’s would earn
gross pay of about $37,800.
That’s well below the median annual salary in Texas, which was was $68,744
in 2023, according to data
from the Bureau of Labor
Statistics.
In signs posted at its
stores, Buc-ee’s has advertised starting wages of $16
an hour for cashiers, grocery stockers and other
entry-level employees; $19
for food service and car
wash workers; and between $23 and $31 for department managers.
And in recent years,
Buc-ee’s has often at-

For Sale | For Rent | Services

STAY where you are appreciated & Earn FREE Rent! LOW LOW RATES! Studio 1,2 & 3
Bedroom units Available w/ FLEXIBLE payment options! Studio units starting at $275.47
a week! Pets welcome. FREE utilities, courtesy patrol, and guest laundry.
Call: 281-920-1308

At Your Service

TO ADVERTISE: Call 281-378-1000
BUSINESS HOURS: 8am-5pm, Mon-Fri
Outdoor

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“A PROFESSIONAL FENCE COMPANY”

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CONTACT US 713-862-7320
Services

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TONY MANY
HOME IMPROVEMENTS

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Insured

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Carpentry • Texturing • Fauxing • and so much more!
Visit us online at www.tonymanyhomeimprovement.com Kingwood &
or www.facebook.com/TonyManyHomeImprovement Surrounding Areas

legals@chron.com
CITY OF HUMBLE
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS – RFP 2024-02
DEBRIS REMOVAL SERVICES
EMERGENCY RESPONSE PRODUCTS, EQUIPMENT AND SERVICES

Barry L. Harrell/Staff

An employee dressed as the Buc-ee’s mascot greets
customers in New Braunfels on March 16. A starting
wage of $18.18 would earn gross pay of about
$37,800.

tracted attention for its
high wages compared
with some other workplaces. General managers
at its convenience stores
can
make
between
$150,000 and $225,000, for
example.
Retail wages have generally been increasing in
recent years as they compete to attract employees
in a tight labor market.
Last year, for example,
Walmart boosted its starting wages to $14 an hour
from $12 an hour. Now, according to ZipRecruiter,
the average wage for Wal-

mart employees in Texas
at the end of April was
$22.37 an hour. That
topped the average wage
at Buc-ee’s, the hiring
website said, where the
average this month is
$21.05.
Lake
Jackson-based
Buc-ee’s was born and
grew in Texas but in recent years has expanded
into other states. It now
has 49 locations, including stores in Alabama,
Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Missouri,
South Carolina and Tennessee.

THE CITY OF HUMBLE IS REQUESTING PROPOSALS FROM QUALIFIED
CONTRACTORS TO PROVIDE DEBRIS REMOVAL SERVICES AND EMERGENCY
RESPONSE PRODUCTS, EQUIPMENT, AND SERVICES THAT MAY BE REQUIRED IN
THE EVENT OF A DECLARED EMERGENCY/DISASTER. THIS CONTRACT WOULD BE
UTILIZED WHEN CITY OF HUMBLE RESOURCES ARE NOT ABLE TO PROVIDE FOR AN
EMERGENCY/DISASTER RESPONSE IN AN IMMEDIATE MANNER. THE CONTRACTOR
WOULD PROVIDE DEBRIS REMOVAL SERVICES AND PRODUCTS, EQUIPMENT,
AND/OR SERVICES AS REQUIRED ON AN “AS NEEDED” BASIS. FURTHER PROPOSAL
INSTRUCTIONS WILL BE INCLUDED IN THE COMPLETE RFP PACKET. THE RFP
PACKET WILL BE AVAILABLE BEGINNING MAY 8, 2024 BY CONTACTING JAMES
NYKAZA, EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COORDINATOR, CITY OF HUMBLE, 110 W.
MAIN STREET, HUMBLE, TEXAS 77338, BY CALLING (281) 446-4928, OR VIA EMAIL
AT JNYKAZA@CITYOFHUMBLE.NET.
SEALED PROPOSALS, IN TRIPLICATE, SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO CITY OF HUMBLE,
ATTN: FINANCE DEPARTMENT, 114 WEST HIGGINS, HUMBLE, TEXAS 77338 AND
SHALL BE LABELED: “SEALED RFP #2024-02 CITY OF HUMBLE DEBRIS REMOVAL
SERVICES AND EMERGENCY RESPONSE PRODUCTS, EQUIPMENT AND SERVICES”
AND SHOULD BE RECEIVED NO LATER THAN 2:00 P.M. ON JUNE 3, 2024.
PROPOSALS WILL BE OPENED PUBLICLY AND READ ALOUD AT THAT TIME IN THE
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS.
IT IS THE SOLE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE BIDDER TO ENSURE THAT HIS/HER BID IS
ACTUALLY IN THE CITY OF HUMBLE FINANCE DEPARTMENT PRIOR TO THE
EXPIRATION OF THE TIME AND DATE ABOVE FIRST WRITTEN.
IT SHALL BE EACH RESPONDENT’S SOLE RESPONSIBILITY TO INFORM
HIM/HERSELF REGARDING ALL LOCAL CONDITIONS UNDER WHICH THE WORK IS TO
BE DONE. IT SHALL BE UNDERSTOOD AND AGREED THAT ALL SUCH FACTORS HAVE
BEEN THOROUGHLY INVESTIGATED AND CONSIDERED IN THE PREPARATION OF
THE PROPOSAL SUBMITTED.
THE CONTRACTOR AND ALL SUBCONTRACTORS FOR THIS PROJECT WILL BE
REQUIRED TO PAY NOT LESS THAN THE PREVAILING WAGE RATES FOR THE AREA
OF THE PROJECT AND TO BE IN COMPLIANCE WITH EXECUTIVE ORDER 11246, AS
AMENDED, ENTITLED “EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY” AND AS
SUPPLEMENTED IN THE DEPARTMENT OF LABOR REGULATION (41 CFR PART 60).
UPON CONSIDERATION OF THE PROPOSALS THE CITY COUNCIL PLANS TO AWARD
A CONTRACT; HOWEVER, THE CITY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REJECT ANY AND ALL
PROPOSALS, TO WAIVE ANY AND ALL FORMALITIES AND TECHNICALITIES, AND TO
ACCEPT ANY PROPOSAL WHICH IT DEEMS ADVANTAGEOUS TO THE CITY. EACH
RESPONDENT AGREES TO WAIVE ANY CLAIM IT HAS OR MAY HAVE AGAINST THE
CITY AND THEIR RESPECTIVE AGENTS AND/OR EMPLOYEES ARISING OUT OF OR IN
CONNECTION TO WITH THE ADMINISTRATION, EVALUATION OR RECOMMENDATION
OF ANY PROPOSAL.

713.362.6868
legals@chron.com
David & Son Storage
VSF#0656584,11946 Aldine Westfield Rd,
Houston,Tx 77093. 832-338-4642, Tan
1980 Dodge Colt last 4 vin 4740, 492.32
North Harris County Storage, TDLR#
0653878VSF First Notice The following
vehicles were towed to and may be retrieved @ 610 N. Houston Ave, Humble,
TX 77338 713-931-4002, www.tdlr.texas.g
ov .Storage charges for the following units
will increase daily $39.99 plus tax each
unit.
C405013 2015 UTILITY TRAILER
1UYVS2533FU34005 TS8975 (ID)
$1225.89
North Houston Motors
16711 Eastex Frwy
Humble, Tx 77396
281-540-1019
www.tdlr.texas.gov
YEAR MAKE VIN#
2012 FORD 1FMCU0E76CKB28576
$416.93
1998 LINCOLN 1LNFM83W5WY708327
$392.19
2004 FORD 1FTPW125X4KD20884
$367.46
2011 KIA 5XYKT3A15BG062175 $367.46
2014 MERCEDES
WDDGF4HBXEA916573 $416.93
2007 FORD 1FDXE45S87DA17354
$416.93
2016 TOYOTA 4T1BF1FK0GU212384
$416.93
2006 KAWASAKI AB0205116656
$317.69
2023 CHRYSLER 2C4RC1CG2PR533996
$367.46

A8 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

A

THE OBSERVER

THE OBSERVER

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A9

A10 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

THE OBSERVER

Look
Lookfor
foryour
yourgrocery
grocerycoupons
couponsinside!
inside!

CypressCreekMirror.com

1973

SERVING THE
COMMUNITY SINCE
Formerly The 1960 Sun

HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM/CYFAIR

•

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

• VOL. 14, NO. 20

•

50 CENTS

AN EDITION OF

David Stokes Collaborative Architects

Grand Cypress Doctors Pavilion 1 will span across 60,000 square feet, including a 12,000-square-foot endoscopy center.

GROWING
OPTIONS
Long-awaited Cypress medical park breaks ground
on $600 million project
By Claire Partain
STA FF WRIT E R

The first phase of a long-awaited
30-acre, $600 million medical park
project owned by physicians has
broken ground in Cypress.
Physician investor group North
Cypress Land Ventures has broken
ground on Grand Cypress Doctors
Pavilion One, a 60,000-square-foot
project slated to be completed in
June of 2025.
Most of the first building has been
preleased with tenants across multiple disciplines, anchored by a 12,000-

CY-FAIR
INSIDER
Reporter Chevall Pryce delivers
top stories from your
neighborhood to your inbox
twice a week — education, real
estate, new businesses and more.
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square-foot endoscopy surgery center headed by Dr. Bharat Pothuri.
The space is about 80 percent
leased, North Cypress Land Ventures chairman Kim Keller said, and
the building will also host Keller
Surgical Specialists.
“Our mission is to provide a state o
the art health care campus with experienced and caring doctors who
are focused on patient care and satisfaction above all else,” Keller said.
Now a more than 30-year general
surgeon in the Cypress area, Keller
comes from a family of physician
ownership. His father, a primary

care doctor, built Houston Northwest Medical Center and Cy-Fair
Hospital, where Keller hosted his
own practice. Now, three of Keller’s
children are involved in the Grand
Cypress Medical Pavilion project.
Now with 43 local active physicians on board, North Cypress Land
Ventures is unique in that it promotes medical developments owned
by local doctors, Keller said.
The 30-acre site is located adjacent
to the formerly physician-owned
North Cypress Medical Center.
“We had this extra land, and I
really wanted to continue the pro-

EVENT

THINGS
TO DO

Keep up with the latest
events and happenings
in the region with this
week’s calendar.
PAGE A2

cess of physician ownership and
physician involvement with patient
care as much as possible,” Keller
said.
Located at the northeast corner of
Grand Parkway and U.S. 290, the
group first received an $8 million
loan in 2019 to begin the project. The
maturity date was extended to July
2025, and the same lender offered
another $19.1 million for the project
in 2020.
Once completed, the Grand Cypress Medical Pavilion will incorporate around five buildings including
Medical continues on A5

A2 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

CYPRESS CREEK MIRROR | THE POTPOURRI |

ADVICE
HOME IMPROVEMENT

Zinsser hits the spot for antique furniture
Many of my
customers have
furniture from
their parents or
relatives that
mean so much
Trudy
to them. It
Chuoke
might have been
Mom’s dressing
H AP PY
H A N DYMA N
table, or Dad’s
bedside table
and just looking at them brings
back many memories. I have a
few things that I have kept
from my late husband, and I
just like having them in the
house...a sweet remembrance
of the time we had together.
But sometimes the furniture
pieces that you get from your
family have been in storage. I
have this friend who collected
from her mom’s estate. The
furniture and clothing had
been stored in a barn. A very

stinky barn. And the furniture
had adsorbed all the odor.
She told me about all the
different things she tried before
coming to me. She tried airing
it out, she put charcoal in the
drawers, she cleaned it with a
degreaser, but the furniture
smelled so bad she couldn’t
keep it in the house. So she
asked me for help.
Zinsser makes great primers.
Primers for sheetrock that is
crumbling, primers for peeling
paint and a primer for odor.
Older furniture is made so well,
all wood no composite or laminates and that old wood can be
a sponge absorbing odors.
Odor Killing Primer can be
painted on a surface, and it will
seal in the offensive smell. My
friend sealed all the drawers
and the inside of the drawer.
Then she wanted to put a new

finish on the outside of the
furniture, and I suggested Varathane. Her pieces now made
their way into the house.
Another way to use Zinsser
is on kitchen cabinets. If you
had smoke damage from a
kitchen fire and nothing gets
rid of the odor in the cabinets.
You don’t have to have your
whole kitchen torn down. Try
Zinsser first. I used it on my
kitchen cabinets because the
previous owner was a smoker.
That smoke permeated into the
cabinets and when I would
leave for a trip and come backthe whole house had this lingering smell like someone had
been smoking inside my house.
When I finally figured out
what was causing the odor…..I
used Zinsser. All I had to do
was seal the inside of all the
cabinets, and there was no

lingering odor when I returned
from the trip. And this primer
goes on milky so you can see
where you have applied the
primer and then dries clear.

Now to some great
email…..

Question: After listening
to your Saturday afternoon
show on WOAI, I have decided to remove the silicone
caulk in my shower. So how
can I remove the caulk and
what caulk would you suggest that I replace for the
silicone?
Answer: Contractor’s DeSolv-It is great for removing
silicone caulk. First, use a single edged razor blade to cut the
caulk right down the middlw
and along each side. Then
spray the caulk with De-Solv-It.
Spray every 15 minutes for an

hour. Then re-caulk with Sashco Sealant Clean Seal. It has a
7-year guarantee to resist mildew. Allow 48 hours to cure.
Question: I have slippery
steps on a small outdoor
deck. I know that you paint
them with a texture paint,
but I love the color of the
deck and I don’t want to
change that – so is there
something else that is not an
abrasive tread.
Answer: Absolutely yes!
There is a tread that is soft to
the touch but will provide traction and a safe step. They are
called Handi Treads. I like
them because they are translucent and don’t stand out on the
deck. You can use Handi
Treads on wet surfaces also like
in the tub and shower.
www.happyhandyman.com

HEALTH CARE

Medicare enrollment process explained
Toni: I need
to make the
right Medicare
decision because I turn 65
in August and
have
not had a
Toni
health plan for
King
2 years. I do
M E D ICA RE
not know
ADV IC E
where to start
or what to do.
My friends are advising me if
I do not sign up for Medicare
when I turn 65, I will be making a major Medicare mistake.
Can you please simplify the
Medicare enrollment process?
Thanks, Toni
Cynthia, Alvin

Hi Cynthia: Medicare is exploding with an American turning 65 every 8 seconds.
The Medicare basics America
needs to know are:

1) Remember to enroll at the

right time:

a) Turning 65 and receiving
your Social Security check, your
“Welcome to Medicare” kit will
be mailed to you with your
Medicare card 90 days before
you turn 65.
b) Turning 65 and NOT receiving your Social Security check and
not working full time with true
employer group health insurance from either you or your
spouse’s work, you may want to
enroll in Medicare Parts A and
B online via www.ssa.gov.
c) Turning 65, working full-time
with “true” employer group health
insurance whether through your
or your spouse’s employer benefits may want to delay enrolling
in Medicare until you or your
spouse retire or are laid off.

2) Medicare is not free

Medicare covers a lot and
there is a cost associated with
Medicare Parts A and B. The

premium for Part A is at no cost
if you worked 10 years or 40
quarters and paid Medicare
taxes. Medicare Part B has a
premium which is means-tested
depending on your annual income. In 2024, most Medicare
beneficiaries pay $174.70 each
month for their Part B premium. Medicare Part A (hospital)
deductible for 2024 is $1,632, not
once a year but is every 60 days
or 6 times a year. The 2024
Medicare Part B deductible is
$240 once a year with Medicare
paying 80% of the Medicareapproved amount and you paying the remaining 20%.

3) Learn the different
Medicare Parts (A, B, C and
D)
Original Medicare is Medicare Parts A and B which covers hospital, medical and provider expenses. Medicare Part
C, known as Medicare Ad-

vantage plan, is another way of
receiving your Medicare benefits. Part D is the Medicare
Prescription Drug plan that can
be a stand-alone plan with Original Medicare and a Medicare
Supplement, or with a Medicare
Advantage plan that includes a
prescription drug plan.

4) “Original” Medicare

Original Medicare Parts A
and B have no network. Medicare Part A covers in-patient
hospital, skilled nursing/rehab
facility, home health and hospice care. Medicare Part B covers doctor services whether at
the office or surgical care, outpatient surgery/services, lab/Xrays, MRIs, durable medical
equipment, and preventative
services.

5) Medicare Advantage Plan
(MAPD)
You must be enrolled in Orig-

inal Medicare to qualify for a
Medicare Advantage Plan and
can select various Medicare
Advantage plans (Medicare Part
C) such as an HMO or PPO
plans that are offered by private
insurance companies. A MAPD
plan has an insurance provider
network with health care professionals or facilities that provide lower in-network rates.
You do not use your Medicare
(red, white, and blue) card because Medicare will pay the
MAPD plan for your care. You
will have co-pays, deductibles
and maximum out-of-pocket
costs associated with your
medical care.
Confused about Medicare Workshop in Katy is “Live” Thursday,
May 23 at 6 p.m. at Spring Creek
BBQ-Katy, 21000 Katy Frwy,
Katy, TX. 77449. RSVP:832/5198664 or visit www.tonisays.com.
Dinner not included.

Region ranks among
worst traffic in country
By Shakari Briggs
STA F F W R I T ER

Driving in Texas continues to get a bad rap.
Houston ranked as one of
the worst cities to drive in,
according to a new report
by Forbes Advisor.
“Drivers lose an average
of 11 hours per year in traffic in the Houston, Texas
area,” the report says. “It
ranks 12th worst for access
to
car
maintenance,
thanks in part to the
Houston-The WoodlandsSugar Land metro area
having the seventh fewest
car repair shops at 1.89 per
10,000 residents.”
Houston, which landed
fourth on the list, received
a score of 96.52, with 100
being the worst possible
score. Additionally, the report showed Space City
ranked 12th worst for

overall driving experience. Analysts also found
drivers experience the 11th
longest average commute
time at 30 minutes and
nine seconds, not to mention Houston tied with Atlanta when it comes to the
amount of time drivers
spend in traffic — 74 hours
annually.
The report indicated
drivers in the Houston
metro area spend the 11th
highest amount on gas,
$1,257 a year, because of
traffic congestion. Houston had the 12th slowest
average speed in downtown at 16 miles per hour.
“Travel on the nation’s
highways and streets
climbed by 2.1% in 2023 to
3.3 trillion miles, setting a
new annual record, according to the Department of Transportation,”
the report says. “However,

drivers in some cities have
it worse than others during their daily commute
due to frequent car accidents, heavy traffic congestion, high gas prices
and challenges with accessing car maintenance.”
Forbes Advisor analysts compared 47 of the
most populated cities
across 15 metrics to figure
out the worst cities to
drive in. The metrics categories included driving
experience, safety, cost of
car ownership and access
to car maintenance. Ultimately, Oakland topped
the list as the worst to
drive in followed by Miami, San Francisco, Houston and Philadelphia. Two
cities in North Carolina —
Charlotte and Raleigh —
ended up being the best
cities to drive in, per the
data.

EVs make bestseller list
By Nusaiba Mizan
STA F F W R I T ER

Two all-electric vehicles, both from Tesla, became the first of their kind
to rank among the Houston area’s bestselling
models last year, according to Houston-based InfoNation Inc.
Tesla’s Model Y SUV
debuted on the list at No.
10 while the Model 3 made
its first appearance at No.
18. More than 5,000 of the
Model Y and 4,000 Model
3s were sold last year. Tesla cut the prices of both in
2023.
RoShelle Salinas, executive vice president of the
Houston
Automobile
Dealers
Association,
called the rising popularity of electric vehicles “exciting to see for the first

time for us.”
“They’ve got plenty of
variety to choose from,
which makes it easier to
commit to an electric vehicle — along with partners
like the energy providers
and groups like Evolve
Houston, and the different apps and charging stations,” Salinas said.
InfoNation’s ranking
uses state Department of
Motor Vehicle records
from Harris and nine surrounding counties.
It will surprise no one
that the region’s top-selling vehicles are pickups.
The Ford F-150 topped the
list in 2022 and 2023,
while the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 was second
both years. Pickups occupied four of the top 10
spots.
Sales of both models,

however, declined in the
Houston area and nationally, InfoNation wrote in
its report. Nearly 15,000
F-150s and 10,000 Silverado 1500s were sold in the
region in 2023.
In Houston, two SUVs
jumped into the top 10:
The Honda CR-V rose to
sixth from No. 18 in 2022
while the Mazda CX-5
jumped to eighth from No.
22. SUVs grabbed five of
the top 10 spots.
“You get what you need
as a higher-level vehicle,
especially in the high waters that we can sometimes see in Houston,” Salinas said. “You can fit
your family, and all of
their sporting equipment.”
Among sedans, the
Toyota Camry was the top
choice at No. 4.

A4 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

CYPRESS CREEK MIRROR | THE POTPOURRI |

Real Estate

legals@chron.com

For Sale | For Rent | Services

ORDINANCE NO. 2024-12

NORTHWEST

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF TOMBALL, TEXAS REPEALING AND REPLACING
CHAPTER 46, ARTICLE VII, WATER CONSERVATION, OF THE CITY OF TOMBALL CODE
OF ORDINANCES; PROVIDING FOR THE REPEAL OF CONFLICTING PROVISIONS; PROVIDING A SAVINGS CLAUSE; PROVIDING A PENALTY UP TO $2,000.00 FOR THE VIOLATION OF AND PROVISIONS FOR ENFORCEMENT OF THESE RESTRICTIONS, WITH
EACH DAY CONSTITUTING A NEW VIOLATION; PROVIDING SEVERABILITY; ADOPTING A WATER CONSERVATION AND DROUGHT CONTINGENCY PLAN; AND PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE.FIRST READING PASSED AND APPROVED ON MAY 6, 2024.

STAY where you are appreciated & Earn FREE Rent! LOW LOW RATES! Studio 1,2 & 3
Bedroom units Available w/ FLEXIBLE payment options! Studio units starting at $275.47
a week! Pets welcome. FREE utilities, courtesy patrol, and guest laundry.
Call: 281-920-1308

legals@chron.com
NOTICE TO BIDDERS

painting
Interior/Exterior Painting • Sheetrock
Textures • Power Washing
Like Us on Facebook
and Get $100 Off
Min. of $500

Insured,
References

Call Luis Fuentes

713-298-8393
www.smart-improvements.com

Employment
TO ADVERTISE:

recruitment@hcnonline.com

Sealed bids in duplicate, will be received by KLEINWOOD JOINT POWERS BOARD at
the offices of Baxter & Woodman, Inc., 11450 Compaq Center Dr. West, Suite 660,
Houston, Texas 77070, until WEDNESDAY, MAY 29, 2024 AT 2:00 P.M., at which time
all bids will be opened and publicly read for furnishing all material, equipment, labor
and supervision necessary for completion of the following:
SLUDGE THICKENER REHABILITATION
The major items of work include: Rehabilitation of thickener equipment by removal and
replacement of interior mechanism components with new components, including
drive unit, replacement of thickener control panel, and replacement of thickener
bridge and rails. Abrasive blast and recoating of sludge piping adjacent to thickener;
power-tool clean and recoating of sludge pumps and motors located adjacent to
thickener. Removal and replacement of existing manual ball valves with sewage air
release valves. Installation of associated electrical work.
Each bid proposal must be accompanied by a Cashier’s Check, Certified Check or a Bid
Bond from a reliable surety company drawn to the order of KLEINWOOD JOINT POWERS BOARD in the amount of five percent (5%) of the total bid. No bid proposal may be
withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days after the bid opening date. The OWNER reserves the right to reject any or all bids, or to accept the bid deemed most advantageous to it. The successful bidder will be required to provide a performance, payment,
and maintenance bond for the full amount of the contract.
A Pre-Bid Conference will be held at the offices of Baxter & Woodman, Inc., 11450
Compaq Center Dr. West, Suite 660, Houston, Texas 77070 onWEDNESDAY, MAY 15,
2024 AT 2:00 P.M. Attendance is not mandatory.
Specifications and Bid Documents are available online at https://www.civcastusa.com
or may be purchased at the offices of Baxter & Woodman, Inc., 11450 Compaq Center
Dr., Suite 660, Houston, Texas 77070, for a non-refundable fee of $50.00. Business
hours are Monday through Thursday from 7:30 A.M. until 5:00 P.M. and Fridays from
7:30 A.M. until 12:30 P.M. Telephone 281/350-7027.
ORDINANCE NO. 2024-08
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF TOMBALL, TEXAS, AMENDING CHAPTER 50 (ZONING) OF THE TOMBALL CODE OF ORDINANCES BY CHANGING THE ZONING DISTRICT
CLASSIFICATION OF APPROXIMATELY 0.87 ACRES OF LAND LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS
BEING A PORTION OF TOMBALL OUTLOT 286 FROM SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL –
20 (SF-20) TO COMMERCIAL (C). THE PROPERTY IS LOCATED WITHIN THE 900
BLOCK (NORTH SIDE) OF AGG ROAD, WITHIN THE CITY OF TOMBALL, HARRIS
COUNTY, TEXAS; PROVIDING FOR A PENALTY OF AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED
$2,000 FOR EACH DAY OF VIOLATION OF ANY PROVISION HEREOF, MAKING FINDINGS OF FACT; AND PROVIDING FOR OTHER RELATED MATTERS. SECOND READING
PASSED AND APPROVED ON MAY 6, 2024.

Texas Commission on environmenTal QualiTy

NOTICE TO BIDDERS-No. 2024-04
The City of Jersey Village is soliciting sealed proposals for Medical, Dental, Vision,
Basic Life/AD&D, Vol. Life/AD&D, and Long-Term Disability. Proposals must be
received by 2:00 PM CST on June 13, 2024 . Late proposals will not be accepted.
Proposal information may be obtained from HUB International,
alexander.hentze@hubinternational.com. Proposals shall be submitted electronically to:
alexander.hentze@hubinternational.com. The files must be clearly labeled –
“FULLY INSURED GROUP MEDICAL, DENTAL, VISION, LIFE AD&D, AND LONG-TERM
DISABILITY REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL – No. 2024-04.” The City of Jersey Village
reserves the right to reject any and all bids, in whole or in part, to waive any informality
in any bid, and to accept any bid, which, in its discretion, is in the best interest of the
City of Jersey Village. The City of Jersey Village is subject to the Texas Public
Information Act, a state law, which may require the City to make the information
provided in response to this request for applications available to the public upon
request. Therefore, responders are required to clearly mark any proprietary and/or
confidential information.
CITY OF JERSEY VILLAGE
OFFICIAL ADVERTISEMENT
Publication Dates: May 15, 2024, and May 22, 2024
s/Lorri Coody, City Secretary
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
Sealed bids in duplicate, will be received by CITY OF MAGNOLIA at Magnolia City Hall,
18111 Buddy Riley Blvd., Magnolia, Texas 77354, attention Mr. Tim Robertson, until
THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2024, AT 3:00 P.M ., at which time all bids will be opened and
publicly read for furnishing all material, equipment, labor and supervision necessary for
completion of the following:
AMARILLO DRIVE PAVEMENT REPLACEMENT
The major items of work include: Replacement of Amarillo Drive including removal of
existing surface and base, rework of subbase, installation of new base and new HMAC
surface; concrete driveway removal and replacement; widening and resurfacing of Smith
Road; storm sewer improvements and swale regrading; installation of a concrete pilot
channel; and site restoration.
Each bid proposal must be accompanied by a Bid Bond from a reliable surety company
drawn to the order of CITY OF MAGNOLIA in the amount of five percent (5%) of the total bid. No bid proposal may be withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days after the bid
opening date. The OWNER reserves the right to reject any or all bids, or to accept the
bid deemed most advantageous to it. The successful bidder will be required to provide
a performance, payment, and maintenance bond for the full amount of the contract.
A Pre-Bid Conference will be held at Magnolia City Hall, 18111 Buddy Riley Rd.,
Magnolia, Texas 77354 on THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2024, AT 3:00 P.M . Attendance is not
mandatory.
Specifications and Bid Documents are available online at https://www.civcastusa.com
or may be purchased at the offices of Baxter & Woodman, Inc., 11450 Compaq Center
Dr., Suite 660, Houston, Texas 77070, for a non-refundable fee of $50.00. Business
hours are Monday through Thursday from 7:30 A.M. until 5:00 P.M. and Fridays from
7:30 A.M. until 12:30 P.M. Telephone 281/350-7027.
Region 4 Education Services Center is requesting proposals from qualified and experienced firms to provide Background Screening, Related Products and Services (RFP
No.24-07). In order to be considered, the Offeror must complete and submit a proposal
to Region 4 ESC in accordance with the solicitation documentation available at www.reg
ion4esc.ionwave.net.
PRE-PROPOSAL CONFERENCE: Tuesday, May 21st, 2024, 10:00 am local time via
Zoom.

BUSINESS FINANCE MANAGER

AG&P Americas, Inc.
Spring, TX
See Below To Apply

PROPOSAL DUE DATE: June 20th, 2024, BEFORE 2:00 PM LOCAL

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

AG&P Americas, Inc.; Business Finance Manager; Spring, TX will collaborate with Managing Director and the Director of Operations to
monitor, analyze and improve business performance of operations;
own the setup and maintenance of projects in accounting system in
accordance with contract terms and accounting policies, including
rate schedule and customer billing requirements during the project
cycle from project initiation to project closeout. Must have a Bachelor’s degree, or foreign equivalent, in Accounting, Finance, Business
Administration or closely related field and 3 years of experience as
an accountant or related occupation with a multinational company.
Must have 3 years of experience working with multinational teams
across country, cultural and organizational boundaries. Must have a
CPA license. Apply for the ‘Business Finance Manager’ position at
https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/
recruitment.html?cid=f5689c4a-4496-4d18-bfff67a77a177d1e&ccId=273943701225_32582&lang=en_US&selectedM
enuKey=CareerCenter.

DIRECTOR OF STRINGS

Ethos School of Music
Magnolia, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

Ethos School of Music is seeking a Director of Strings to join
our Magnolia, TX office to lead our string music instruments
programand develop the Viola and Violin program curriculum.
The Director will work individually with students, including
conducting Violaand Violin private lessons, and prepare students
for Royal Conservatory of Music exams, college auditions, recitals,
and other performance-related activities. They will also manage
the training of other teachers and will work with Ethos Chamber
Players as a coach and as a part of the ensemble. Registration as
a Suzuki Association of the Americas (SSA) teacher is required.
The ideal applicant will have a Ph.D in music. Qualified applicants
may send resumé to Khoren Ouzounian at khoren@ethos.school
with reference Director of Upper Strings in the subject line.

TECHNICAL

Cisco Systems, Inc.
Spring, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

Cisco Systems, Inc. is accepting resumes for multiple positions in
Spring, TX: Leader, Software Engineering (Ref#: SPR160B): Lead
a team in the design and development of company’s software products. Telecommuting permitted. Quality Engineer (Ref#: SPR123B):
Responsible for all aspects of quality assurance / test for projects
and IT functions. Telecommuting permitted. Software Engineer
(Ref#: SPR103B): Responsible for the definition, design, development, test, debugging, release, enhancement or maintenance of
software. Telecommuting permitted. Please email resumes including
position’s reference number in subject line to Cisco Systems, Inc. at
amsjobs@cisco.com. No phone calls please. Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship. EOE.www.cisco.com

TECHNOLOGY

HP Inc.
Spring, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

HP Inc. is accepting resumes for the position of Software
Applications Engineer in Spring, TX (Ref. #7594874).
Leverages recognized domain expertise, business acumen,
and experience to influence decisions of executive business
leadership, outsourced development partners, and industry
standards groups. Telecommuting permitted. Annual Salary:
$198,588.00/year to $228,588.00/year. Email resume to HP
USA Jobs, jobshpusa@hp.com. Resume must include Ref. #,
full name, email address & mailing address. No phone calls. Must
be legally authorized to work in U.S. without sponsorship. EOE.

TECHNOLOGY

HP Inc.
Spring, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

HP Inc. is accepting resumes for the position of Technical
Operations Manager in Spring, TX (Ref. #6862265). Identifies
research, tools, and analyses required to achieve objectives for large,
complex technology projects. Telecommuting permitted.
Annual Salary: $135,160.65/year to $165,160.65/year. Email
resume to HP USA Jobs, jobshpusa@hp.com. Resume must include
Ref. #, full name, email address & mailing address. No phone calls.
Must be legally authorized to work in U.S. without sponsorship. EOE.

TECHNOLOGY

HP Inc.
Spring, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

HP Inc. is accepting resumes for the position of Firmware Architect
in Spring, TX (Ref. #7229653). Lead the overall firmware design on
new and complex system architecture in commercial notebook and
desktop systems. Telecommuting permitted. Annual Salary:
$145,000.00/year to $175,000.00/year. Email resume to HP USA
Jobs, jobshpusa@hp.com. Resume must include Ref. #, full name,
email address & mailing address. No phone calls. Must be legally
authorized to work in U.S. without sponsorship. EOE.

PORSCHE AIR-COOLED SPECIALIST

indiGO Auto Group Holdings, LLC.
Houston, TX
See Below to Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Exp Req/See Below
Full-Time

indiGO Auto Group Holdings, LLC. is seeking a Porsche Air-Cooled
Specialist, in Houston, TX to perform a diagnosis, review vehicle history files, request parts & complete required authorized repairs of
the vehicles. Completion of technical training school or factory
apprentice program or foreign eqiv, plus 8 years of exp. Apply online
at: https://www.indigoautogroup.com/careers Porsche Air-Cooled
Specialist, no calls, principals only.

TIME. CONTACT: Crystal Wallace, CTSBS Procurement and Operations Specialist, (713)
744-8189 or cwallace@esc4.net

NOTICE OF RECEIPT OF APPLICATION AND
INTENT TO OBTAIN WATER QUALITY PERMIT AMENDMENT
PERMIT NO. WQ0014452001
APPLICATION. Undine Texas Environmental, LLC, 17681 Telge
Road, Cypress, Texas 77429, has applied to the Texas Commission on
Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to amend Texas Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (TPDES) Permit No. WQ0014452001 (EPA I.D. No.
TX0125776) to authorize an increase to the discharge of treated domestic
wastewater to a volume not to exceed a daily average flow of 340,000
gallons per day. The domestic wastewater treatment facility is located
at 1329 29th Street, near the community of Port Bolivar, in Galveston
County, Texas 77650. The discharge route is from the plant site directly
to Intracoastal Waterway Tidal. TCEQ received this application on June
28, 2023. The permit application will be available for viewing and copying
at David Glenn Hunt Memorial Library, 4015 Avenue Q, Galveston,
Texas prior to the date this notice is published in the newspaper. This link
to an electronic map of the site or facility's general location is provided as
a public courtesy and not part of the application or notice. For the exact
location, refer to the application.
https://gisweb.tceq.texas.gov/LocationMapper/?marker=-94.7475,
29.395&level=18
The application is subject to the goals and policies of the Texas Coastal
Management Program and must be consistent with the applicable
Coastal Management Program goals and policies.
ADDITIONAL NOTICE. TCEQ's Executive Director has determined
the application is administratively complete and will conduct a technical
review of the application. After technical review of the application is
complete, the Executive Director may prepare a draft permit and will
issue a preliminary decision on the application. Notice of the Application
and Preliminary Decision will be published and mailed to those who are
on the county-wide mailing list and to those who are on the mailing list
for this application. That notice will contain the deadline for submitting
public comments.
PUBLIC COMMENT / PUBLIC MEETING. You may submit public
comments or request a public meeting on this application. The purpose
of a public meeting is to provide the opportunity to submit comments or
to ask questions about the application. TCEQ will hold a public meeting
if the Executive Director determines that there is a significant degree of
public interest in the application or if requested by a local legislator. A
public meeting is not a contested case hearing.
OPPORTUNITY FOR A CONTESTED CASE HEARING. After the
deadline for submitting public comments, the Executive Director will
consider all timely comments and prepare a response to all relevant
and material, or significant public comments. Unless the application is
directly referred for a contested case hearing, the response to comments,
and the Executive Director's decision on the application, will be mailed
to everyone who submitted public comments and to those persons who
are on the mailing list for this application. If comments are received, the
mailing will also provide instructions for requesting reconsideration of
the Executive Director's decision and for requesting a contested case
hearing. A contested case hearing is a legal proceeding similar to a civil
trial in state district court.
TO REQUEST A CONTESTED CASE HEARING, YOU MUST
INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING ITEMS IN YOUR REQUEST: your
name, address, phone number; applicant's name and proposed permit
number; the location and distance of your property/activities relative to
the proposed facility; a specific description of how you would be adversely
affected by the facility in a way not common to the general public; a
list of all disputed issues of fact that you submit during the comment
period and, the statement “[I/we] request a contested case hearing.”
If the request for contested case hearing is filed on behalf of a group or
association, the request must designate the group's representative for
receiving future correspondence; identify by name and physical address
an individual member of the group who would be adversely affected by
the proposed facility or activity; provide the information discussed above
regarding the affected member's location and distance from the facility
or activity; explain how and why the member would be affected; and
explain how the interests the group seeks to protect are relevant to the
group's purpose.
Following the close of all applicable comment and request periods,
the Executive Director will forward the application and any requests
for reconsideration or for a contested case hearing to the TCEQ
Commissioners for their consideration at a scheduled Commission
meeting.
The Commission may only grant a request for a contested case hearing
on issues the requestor submitted in their timely comments that were not
subsequently withdrawn. If a hearing is granted, the subject of a hearing
will be limited to disputed issues of fact or mixed questions of fact and
law relating to relevant and material water quality concerns submitted
during the comment period.
MAILING LIST. If you submit public comments, a request for a
contested case hearing or a reconsideration of the Executive Director's
decision, you will be added to the mailing list for this specific application
to receive future public notices mailed by the Office of the Chief Clerk. In
addition, you may request to be placed on: (1) the permanent mailing list
for a specific applicant name and permit number; and/or (2) the mailing
list for a specific county. If you wish to be placed on the permanent and/
or the county mailing list, clearly specify which list(s) and send your
request to TCEQ Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below.
INFORMATION AVAILABLE ONLINE. For details about the status
of the application, visit the Commissioners' Integrated Database at
www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/cid. Search the database using the permit
number for this application, which is provided at the top of this notice.
AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION. Public comments and
requests must be submitted either electronically at https://www14.tceq.
texas.gov/epic/eComment/, or in writing to the Texas Commission
on Environmental Quality, Office of the Chief Clerk, MC-105, P.O. Box
13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. Please be aware that any contact
information you provide, including your name, phone number, email
address, and physical address will become part of the agency's public
record. For more information about this permit application or the
permitting process, please call the TCEQ Public Education Program,
Toll Free, at 1-800-687-4040 or visit their website at www.tceq.texas.
gov/goto/pep. Si desea información en Español, puede llamar al
1-800-687-4040.
Further information may also be obtained from Undine Texas
Environmental, LLC at the address stated above or by calling
Mr. Jeff Goebel at 713-574-5953.
Issuance Date: February 14, 2024

Application has been made with the Texas
Alcoholic Beverage Commission for a MIXED
BEVERAGE LICENSE (MB) by CMT CYPRESS
INDEPENDENT LIVING, LLC dba CMT CYPRESS
INDEPENDENT LIVING, LLC, to be located at
16302 SPRING CYPRESS ROAD, CYPRESS,
TEXAS UNITED STATES, HARRIS COUNTY 77429.
Officers of said corporation are BRIAN BOLLICH,
MANAGER
LEGAL NOTICE
Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic
Beverage Commission for a [BQ Wine and Malt
Beverage Retail Dealers Off Premise Permit] by Luisa
Obando, Della Casa, LLC dba DellaCasa Pasta
Market, to be located at 22525 Hufsmith-Kohrville
Road, Tomball, Harris, Texas. Officers of said
corporation Luisa Obando, CEO.
LEGAL NOTICE
Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic
Beverage Commission for a Wine and Malt Beverage
Retailer’s On-Premise Permit by Once Upon A
Cowboy LLC. dba [ONCE UPON A COWBOY], to be
located at 24935 Stuebner Airline Rd., Tomball,
Harris, Texas. Officers of said corporation are Sergio
Caro Del Castillo Hernandez, CEO, Bibiana De Anda
Leon, CFO.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE
Pursuant to Chapter 59 of the Texas Property Code, Cy-Fair Storage, located at
11650 Barker Cypress in Cypress, TX
77433 will hold an auction on
StorageTreasures.com to satisfy landlord’s
lien. Auction ends May 29, 2024 9am.
Units will be sold to highest bidder for
cash. Seller has the right to deny any bid
& to withdraw unit from sale. Units for
bid; P072 Mary Hall-Hogan, A012
Chrystal Singh, B110 & D350 Robert
Morlan, C110 Jessica Esteves, F201
Ladonna Fields, E458 Karla Perez, E519
Latoya Chatman, D328 Heidi Howland,
D316 Steven Ayala, F232 Ali Sanchez,
E495 John Davis, A059 Jennifer
Fontenot, D302 Jamari Palbusa, D370 Allen Lopez.
ORDINANCE NO. 2024-07
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF
TOMBALL, TEXAS, AMENDING CHAPTER
50 (ZONING) OF THE TOMBALL CODE OF
ORDINANCES BY CHANGING THE ZONING DISTRICT CLASSIFICATION OF APPROXIMATELY 31.12 ACRES OF LAND LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS BEING PORTIONS
OF THE J H EDWARDS SURVEY, ABSTRACT 20 AND THE C GOODRICH SURVEY, ABSTRACT 311 FROM AGRICULTURAL (AG) TO SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL - 6 (SF-6). THE PROPERTY IS LOCATED WITHIN THE 22100 BLOCK
(WEST SIDE) OF TOMBALL CEMETERY
ROAD, WITHIN THE CITY OF TOMBALL,
HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS; PROVIDING
FOR A PENALTY OF AN AMOUNT NOT
TO EXCEED $2,000 FOR EACH DAY OF
VIOLATION OF ANY PROVISION HEREOF,
MAKING FINDINGS OF FACT; AND PROVIDING FOR OTHER RELATED MATTERS.
SECOND READING PASSED AND APPROVED ON MAY 6, 2024.
Towed vehicle final notice
2023 white GMC YUKON vin #
1GKS2JKL3MR274525
On 02/01/24 from 2715 forest trail by
Harris county sheriffs department to mills
rd auto storage at 9310 mills rd Houston
tx 77070 and its available for pick up
24/7 with one hour notice and proof of
ownership
The charges are $145.50 for towing
$22.85 a day for storage + tax $22.85 impound + tax and $50.00 notification this
storage facility except payments by cash
check credit card debit card and Zelle

The Region 4 Education
Service Center (ESC),
Houston, TX is requesting
proposals from qualified and
experienced firms to provide
Oracle Products and Services
(RFP No. 24-02). In order to be
considered, the Offeror must
complete Ion Wave
Technologies, Inc. registration
and submit a proposal to Region
4 ESC in accordance with the
solicitation link
https://region4esc.ionwave.net/
this link is also available
at www.esc4.net or https://www.
omniapartners.com/publicsector
/solicitations
VIRTUAL PRE-PROPOSAL
CONFERENCE: Thursday,
May 9, 2024, 10:00 am CST.
PROPOSAL DUE DATE:
June 6, 2024, BEFORE 2:00
PM CENTRAL TIME.
The Region 4 Education
Service Center (ESC),
Houston, TX is requesting
proposals from qualified and
experienced firms to provide
Software Solutions and
Services (RFP No. 24-03).
In order to be considered,
the Offeror must complete Ion
Wave Technologies, Inc.
registration and submit
a proposal to Region 4 ESC in
accordance with the solicitation
link
https://region4esc.ionwave.net/
this link is also available
at www.esc4.net or https://www.
omniapartners.com/publicsector
/solicitations
VIRTUAL PRE-PROPOSAL
CONFERENCE: Thursday,
May 9, 2024, 11:00 am CST.
PROPOSAL DUE DATE:
June 6, 2024, BEFORE 2:00
PM CENTRAL TIME.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A5

CYPRESS CREEK MIRROR | THE POTPOURRI |

CALENDAR

File photo

The Beatles tribute band Fab 5 will perform at 6 p.m. on May 18 at Wild Stallion Vineyards. Tickets start at $23. Based in Houston, the band has performed
corporate parties, New Year’s Eve celebrations, music festivals and has appeared at many of the city’s best known music venues. Wild Stallion Vineyards is located
at 5969 West Rayford in Spring. Learn more at www.wildstallionvineyards.com or call 281-803-9463.

MAY 15
Food Drive: Tomball
Emergency Assistance
Ministries (TEAM) in partnership with Michael Truitt
and Greater Tomball Area
Chamber of Commerce
Ambassadors presents a
food drive from 10 a.m. to
2 p.m. at various locations
on May 15.
To help families in need
during the summer
months, when local
schools will no longer be
providing food for children,
the volunteers are looking
for non-perishable and
un-expired food items.
Drop-off locations include
TEAM on Main Street,
Regions Bank, Premiere
Cinemas and TWFG Denise Davis Insurance on SH
249, New Health MD on
Graham, Mathnasium
Tomball on FM 2920,
ADIM Media on Village
Square and Jonah's Movers on Theis Lane.
TEAM is located at 300 W.
Main Street in Tomball.
Learn more at
www.facebook.com/
teamtomballtexas.

MAY 17
Brooks & Dunn: Legendary country duo Brooks &
Dunn will perform at 7
p.m. on May 17 at Cynthia
Woods Mitchell Pavilion in
The Woodlands. Lawn
seats are $45.
The duo's first single,
1991's "Brand New Man,"
made it all the way to the
top of the chart, followed
by others in proceeding
years like "Neon Moon,"
"Boot Scootin' Boogie,"
"She Used to Be Mine,"
and "Red Dirt Road." David
Lee Murphy and Ernest
opens.
The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion is located at
2005 Lake Robbins Drive

MEDICAL
From page A1
a potential rehabilitation
center, a wellness center,
another medical office
building and a women’s
center or cancer prevention center, Keller said.
Phase Two of the project
will likely be the rehabilitation center, while Phase

ZZ Tribute: ZZ Top tribute
artist trio ZZ Tex will perform at 8 p.m. on May 18
at Main Street Crossing in
Tomball. Tickets start at
$45.
Complete with long
beards, cheap sunglasses
and spinning fuzzy guitars
this tribute band from
Dallas has been performing the ZZ Top hits for
more than 15 years.
Main Street Crossing is
located at 111 W. Main
Street in Tomball. Learn
more at
www.mainstreetcrossing.com or call 281-290-0431.
Tomball tidy: The secondever Tidy Up Tomball
event is set for 8 a.m. on
May 18 at First Baptist
Church in Tomball and
organizations, businesses

and volunteers from the
greater area will participate to remove litter from
areas adjacent to public
roadways. The event was
rescheduled from May 4.
Local organizations are
forming teams and participants must sign up online
beforehand. The effort is
thanks to a new local
non-profit organization
that started last year and
during its first event, it
removed more than 300
pounds of trash from
Tomball road sides.
First Baptist Church in
Tomball is located at 400
Houston Street in Tomball.
Learn more at
www.tidyuptomball.com.
Fab 5: The Beatles tribute
band Fab 5 will perform at
6 p.m. on May 18 at Wild
Stallion Vineyards. Tickets
start at $23.
Based in Houston, the
band has performed corporate parties, New Year’s
Eve celebrations, music
festivals and has appeared
at many of the city’s best
known music venues.
Wild Stallion Vineyards is
located at 5969 West
Rayford in Spring. Learn
more at
www.wildstallionvineyards.com or call 281-8039463.
Texas Tenors: The Texas
Tenors will perform at 7:30
p.m. on May 18 at The
Centrum, presented by the
Cypress Creek Foundation
for the Arts and Community Enrichment. Tickets
start at $45.
The Texas Tenors will
perform as part of their
15th Anniversary Tour, and
it is the last performance
of the Cypress Creek FACE
2023-2024 Star-Lit Series.
The trio vocal group
formed in 2009 and later
that year appeared on the
fourth season of America's
Got Talent. Since then,

they've recorded five studio albums and performed
more than 2,000 concerts.
The Centrum is located at
6823 Cypresswood Drive
in Spring. Learn more at
www.cypresscreekface.org.
Uli Jon Roth: German
guitarist Uli Jon Roth,
formerly of The Scorpions,
will perform at 8:30 p.m.
on May 18 at Dosey Doe
The Big Barn. Tickets start
at $88.
Credited as one of the
earliest contributors to the
neoclassical metal genre,
Roth formed Dawn Road
that merged with The
Scorpions in 1974. In 1978,
he left The Scorpions and
formed Electric Sun and
designed and invented his
own guitar with Andreas
Demetriou called the Sky
Guitar, containing more
frets and higher notes
than your typical electric
six-string.
Dosey Doe The Big Barn is
located at 25911 I-45 North
in The Woodlands. Learn
more at
www.doseydoe.com or
call 281-367-3774.

Three could feature the
wellness center and women’s or cancer center, respectively.
“The general theme I
would like to have is physical health, mental health
and cancer prevention,”
Keller said. “I think
there’s a significant need
for more women’s health.”
The wellness center
will incorporate more

than just fitness and will
likely offer packages with
other physicians within
the campus, said Allison
Keller-Beddoe, executive
assistant and the wellness
center’s future director.
“The (wellness) center
is going to be set up in collaboration with doctors
located at the other (buildings,)"
Keller-Beddoe
said. “It’ll be setting peo-

ple up for success longterm, not just having it for
them to work out.”
Construction is headed
by CONAR Building
Group of Tennessee. Architect Willie Stokes of fellow Tennessee-based firm
Davis Stokes Collaborative Architects, who has
designed other medical
buildings in the area, is
designing the project.

in The Woodlands. Learn
more at
www.woodlandscenter.org
or call 281-210-1125.
Hello, Dolly: Playhouse
1960 presents the musical
Hello, Dolly! with performances at 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays May
17-June 1 and three afternoon performances at 3
p.m. on May 19, 26 and
June 2. Adult tickets are
$24.
One of the most enduring
musical theater hits, the
stage musical includes
music by Jerry Herman
and a book by Michael
Stewart and focuses on a
matchmaker's pursuit to
find true love for an unmarried half-a-millionaire.
The local performance is
directed by John Sallinger
and features Rae Dobrovolsky as Dolly and Fernando Fernandez as Horace.
Playhouse 1960 is located
at 6814 Gant Road in
Houston. Learn more at
www.playhouse1960.com.

MAY 18

MAY 22
Blossom Brigade: Mercer
Botanic Gardens presents
a regular event each Wednesday in May including at
9 a.m. on May 22 called
Blossom Brigade.
The free event provides an
opportunity for volunteers
age 16 and up to help
maintain the center's
pollinator garden and
honeybee corral. Volunteers are asked to wear
outdoor clothing, closedtoe shoes, a sun visor and
to bring their own water
bottle.
Mercer Botanic Gardens is
located at 22306 Aldine
Westfield Road in Humble.
Learn more at
www.facebook.com/Mer-

cerBotanicGardens or call
713-274-4166.
Care packing: Local nonprofit organization Boots
for Troops and Captain
Brad's is joining forces to
present a Peel for a Purpose event at 6:30 p.m. on
May 22 at Captain Brad's
Coastal Kitchen.
The restaurant will be
selling crawfish and donating $1 for every pound
to the local organization,
which will begin packing
care packages for troops
at 6:30 p.m. Volunteers
can also bring extra supplies to donate like snacks,
hygiene items, socks and
more.
Captain Brad's Coastal
Kitchen is located at
24435 Tomball Parkway in
Tomball. Learn more at
www.facebook.com/
bootsfortroopsusa.
Service project: The
Spring Klein Rotary Club
will meet from 5 to 7 p.m.
on May 22 at Abundant
Harvest food pantry instead of their regular
meeting spot.
The group and its guests
will help with stocking
duties and assist clients as
they shop at the food

pantry.
Abundant Harvest is located at 24803 Oakhurst
Drive in Spring. Learn more
at
www.harvestkitchen.org.
May 24
Girl's night: Girl's Night
Out the Show will perform
at 8 p.m. on May 24 at The
Barn at Frio Grill in Cypress. Tickets to the 21and-up show start at $20
in advance if purchased
online.
Men with muscles that like
to dance and entertain
guests will perform to
music and will meet and
greet an audience that
enjoys gazing at men.
The Barn at The Frio is
located at 16416 Mueschke
Road in Cypress. Learn
more at
www.facebook.com/thebarnatfrio.

Entertainment roundup is
a weekly feature compiled
by freelance writer Brandon Moeller. Send entertainment submissions to
Brandon at
moellerbrandon
@gmail.com.

A6 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

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CYPRESS CREEK MIRROR | THE POTPOURRI |

CYPRESS CREEK MIRROR | THE POTPOURRI |

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A7

A8 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

CYPRESS CREEK MIRROR | THE POTPOURRI |

!

MONTHS

S2 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

CYPRESS CREEK MIRROR | THE POTPOURRI |

NE

Look
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foryour
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CypressCreekMirror
CYPRESSCREEKMIRROR.COM

•

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

• VOL. 14, NO. 20

•

50 CENTS

AN EDITION OF

Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

The Grand Parkway has improved options for drivers to get around the area, but the Houston region has some of the worst traffic in the country.

ONE OF THE WORST

Forbes released its list of the most time consuming
U.S. cities to drive in; here’s where Houston area ranks
By Shakari Briggs
STA FF WRIT E R

Driving in Texas continues to get a
bad rap. Houston ranked as one of
the worst cities to drive in, according
to a new report by Forbes Advisor.
“Drivers lose an average of 11 hours
per year in traffic in the Houston,
Texas area,” the report says. “It
ranks 12th worst for access to car
maintenance, thanks in part to the
Houston-The
Woodlands-Sugar
Land metro area having the seventh
fewest car repair shops at 1.89 per
10,000 residents.”
Houston, which landed fourth on

EVENTS

THINGS
TO DO

Keep up with the latest
events and happenings
in the region with this
week’s calendar.
PAGE 5

the list, received a score of 96.52,
with 100 being the worst possible
score. Additionally, the report
showed Space City ranked 12th worst
for overall driving experience. Analysts also found drivers experience
the 11th longest average commute
time at 30 minutes and nine seconds,
not to mention Houston tied with Atlanta when it comes to the amount of
time drivers spend in traffic — 74
hours annually.
The report indicated drivers in the
Houston metro area spend the 11th
highest amount on gas, $1,257 a year,
because of traffic congestion. Houston had the 12th slowest average

speed in downtown at 16 miles per
hour.
“Travel on the nation’s highways
and streets climbed by 2.1% in 2023 to
3.3 trillion miles, setting a new annual record, according to the Department of Transportation,” the report
says. “However, drivers in some cities have it worse than others during
their daily commute due to frequent
car accidents, heavy traffic congestion, high gas prices and challenges
with accessing car maintenance.”
Forbes Advisor analysts compared 47 of the most populated cities
across 15 metrics to figure out the
worst cities to drive in. The metrics

categories included driving experience, safety, cost of car ownership
and access to car maintenance. Ultimately, Oakland topped the list as
the worst to drive in followed by Miami, San Francisco, Houston and
Philadelphia. Two cities in North
Carolina — Charlotte and Raleigh —
ended up being the best cities to
drive in, per the data.
“Drivers in Oakland, California
have the worst driving experience
out of the 47 cities we evaluated,
thanks to its high number of fatal car
accidents, steep gas prices and a high
average commute time workers face
each day,” the report says.

A2 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

CYPRESS CREEK MIRROR | THE POTPOURRI |

ADVICE
HOME IMPROVEMENT

Zinsser hits the spot for antique furniture
Many of my
customers have
furniture from
their parents or
relatives that
mean so much
Trudy
to them. It
Chuoke
might have been
Mom’s dressing
H AP PY
H A N DYMA N
table, or Dad’s
bedside table
and just looking at them brings
back many memories. I have a
few things that I have kept
from my late husband, and I
just like having them in the
house...a sweet remembrance
of the time we had together.
But sometimes the furniture
pieces that you get from your
family have been in storage. I
have this friend who collected
from her mom’s estate. The
furniture and clothing had
been stored in a barn. A very

stinky barn. And the furniture
had adsorbed all the odor.
She told me about all the
different things she tried before
coming to me. She tried airing
it out, she put charcoal in the
drawers, she cleaned it with a
degreaser, but the furniture
smelled so bad she couldn’t
keep it in the house. So she
asked me for help.
Zinsser makes great primers.
Primers for sheetrock that is
crumbling, primers for peeling
paint and a primer for odor.
Older furniture is made so well,
all wood no composite or laminates and that old wood can be
a sponge absorbing odors.
Odor Killing Primer can be
painted on a surface, and it will
seal in the offensive smell. My
friend sealed all the drawers
and the inside of the drawer.
Then she wanted to put a new

finish on the outside of the
furniture, and I suggested Varathane. Her pieces now made
their way into the house.
Another way to use Zinsser
is on kitchen cabinets. If you
had smoke damage from a
kitchen fire and nothing gets
rid of the odor in the cabinets.
You don’t have to have your
whole kitchen torn down. Try
Zinsser first. I used it on my
kitchen cabinets because the
previous owner was a smoker.
That smoke permeated into the
cabinets and when I would
leave for a trip and come backthe whole house had this lingering smell like someone had
been smoking inside my house.
When I finally figured out
what was causing the odor…..I
used Zinsser. All I had to do
was seal the inside of all the
cabinets, and there was no

lingering odor when I returned
from the trip. And this primer
goes on milky so you can see
where you have applied the
primer and then dries clear.

Now to some great
email…..

Question: After listening
to your Saturday afternoon
show on WOAI, I have decided to remove the silicone
caulk in my shower. So how
can I remove the caulk and
what caulk would you suggest that I replace for the
silicone?
Answer: Contractor’s DeSolv-It is great for removing
silicone caulk. First, use a single edged razor blade to cut the
caulk right down the middlw
and along each side. Then
spray the caulk with De-Solv-It.
Spray every 15 minutes for an

hour. Then re-caulk with Sashco Sealant Clean Seal. It has a
7-year guarantee to resist mildew. Allow 48 hours to cure.
Question: I have slippery
steps on a small outdoor
deck. I know that you paint
them with a texture paint,
but I love the color of the
deck and I don’t want to
change that – so is there
something else that is not an
abrasive tread.
Answer: Absolutely yes!
There is a tread that is soft to
the touch but will provide traction and a safe step. They are
called Handi Treads. I like
them because they are translucent and don’t stand out on the
deck. You can use Handi
Treads on wet surfaces also like
in the tub and shower.
www.happyhandyman.com

HEALTH CARE

Medicare enrollment process explained
Toni: I need
to make the
right Medicare
decision because I turn 65
in August and
have
not had a
Toni
health plan for
King
2 years. I do
M E D ICA RE
not know
ADV IC E
where to start
or what to do.
My friends are advising me if
I do not sign up for Medicare
when I turn 65, I will be making a major Medicare mistake.
Can you please simplify the
Medicare enrollment process?
Thanks, Toni
Cynthia, Alvin

Hi Cynthia: Medicare is exploding with an American turning 65 every 8 seconds.
The Medicare basics America
needs to know are:

1) Remember to enroll at the

right time:

a) Turning 65 and receiving
your Social Security check, your
“Welcome to Medicare” kit will
be mailed to you with your
Medicare card 90 days before
you turn 65.
b) Turning 65 and NOT receiving your Social Security check and
not working full time with true
employer group health insurance from either you or your
spouse’s work, you may want to
enroll in Medicare Parts A and
B online via www.ssa.gov.
c) Turning 65, working full-time
with “true” employer group health
insurance whether through your
or your spouse’s employer benefits may want to delay enrolling
in Medicare until you or your
spouse retire or are laid off.

2) Medicare is not free

Medicare covers a lot and
there is a cost associated with
Medicare Parts A and B. The

premium for Part A is at no cost
if you worked 10 years or 40
quarters and paid Medicare
taxes. Medicare Part B has a
premium which is means-tested
depending on your annual income. In 2024, most Medicare
beneficiaries pay $174.70 each
month for their Part B premium. Medicare Part A (hospital)
deductible for 2024 is $1,632, not
once a year but is every 60 days
or 6 times a year. The 2024
Medicare Part B deductible is
$240 once a year with Medicare
paying 80% of the Medicareapproved amount and you paying the remaining 20%.

3) Learn the different
Medicare Parts (A, B, C and
D)
Original Medicare is Medicare Parts A and B which covers hospital, medical and provider expenses. Medicare Part
C, known as Medicare Ad-

vantage plan, is another way of
receiving your Medicare benefits. Part D is the Medicare
Prescription Drug plan that can
be a stand-alone plan with Original Medicare and a Medicare
Supplement, or with a Medicare
Advantage plan that includes a
prescription drug plan.

4) “Original” Medicare

Original Medicare Parts A
and B have no network. Medicare Part A covers in-patient
hospital, skilled nursing/rehab
facility, home health and hospice care. Medicare Part B covers doctor services whether at
the office or surgical care, outpatient surgery/services, lab/Xrays, MRIs, durable medical
equipment, and preventative
services.

5) Medicare Advantage Plan
(MAPD)
You must be enrolled in Orig-

inal Medicare to qualify for a
Medicare Advantage Plan and
can select various Medicare
Advantage plans (Medicare Part
C) such as an HMO or PPO
plans that are offered by private
insurance companies. A MAPD
plan has an insurance provider
network with health care professionals or facilities that provide lower in-network rates.
You do not use your Medicare
(red, white, and blue) card because Medicare will pay the
MAPD plan for your care. You
will have co-pays, deductibles
and maximum out-of-pocket
costs associated with your
medical care.
Confused about Medicare Workshop in Katy is “Live” Thursday,
May 23 at 6 p.m. at Spring Creek
BBQ-Katy, 21000 Katy Frwy,
Katy, TX. 77449. RSVP:832/5198664 or visit www.tonisays.com.
Dinner not included.

CYPRESS CREEK MIRROR | THE POTPOURRI |

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A3

A4 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

CYPRESS CREEK MIRROR | THE POTPOURRI |

CLASSIFIED

TO ADVERTISE: Call (281) 378-1000

Merchandise | Real Estate | Auto | Auctions | Business Opportunities

Real Estate

legals@chron.com

For Sale | For Rent | Services

ORDINANCE NO. 2024-12

NORTHWEST

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF TOMBALL, TEXAS REPEALING AND REPLACING
CHAPTER 46, ARTICLE VII, WATER CONSERVATION, OF THE CITY OF TOMBALL CODE
OF ORDINANCES; PROVIDING FOR THE REPEAL OF CONFLICTING PROVISIONS; PROVIDING A SAVINGS CLAUSE; PROVIDING A PENALTY UP TO $2,000.00 FOR THE VIOLATION OF AND PROVISIONS FOR ENFORCEMENT OF THESE RESTRICTIONS, WITH
EACH DAY CONSTITUTING A NEW VIOLATION; PROVIDING SEVERABILITY; ADOPTING A WATER CONSERVATION AND DROUGHT CONTINGENCY PLAN; AND PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE.FIRST READING PASSED AND APPROVED ON MAY 6, 2024.

STAY where you are appreciated & Earn FREE Rent! LOW LOW RATES! Studio 1,2 & 3
Bedroom units Available w/ FLEXIBLE payment options! Studio units starting at $275.47
a week! Pets welcome. FREE utilities, courtesy patrol, and guest laundry.
Call: 281-920-1308

At Your Service

TO ADVERTISE: Call 281-378-1000
BUSINESS HOURS: 8am-5pm, Mon-Fri
Services

painting
Interior/Exterior Painting • Sheetrock
Textures • Power Washing
Like Us on Facebook
and Get $100 Off
Min. of $500

Insured,
References

Call Luis Fuentes

713-298-8393
www.smart-improvements.com

Employment
TO ADVERTISE:

recruitment@hcnonline.com

legals@chron.com
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
Sealed bids in duplicate, will be received by KLEINWOOD JOINT POWERS BOARD at
the offices of Baxter & Woodman, Inc., 11450 Compaq Center Dr. West, Suite 660,
Houston, Texas 77070, until WEDNESDAY, MAY 29, 2024 AT 2:00 P.M., at which time
all bids will be opened and publicly read for furnishing all material, equipment, labor
and supervision necessary for completion of the following:
SLUDGE THICKENER REHABILITATION
The major items of work include: Rehabilitation of thickener equipment by removal and
replacement of interior mechanism components with new components, including
drive unit, replacement of thickener control panel, and replacement of thickener
bridge and rails. Abrasive blast and recoating of sludge piping adjacent to thickener;
power-tool clean and recoating of sludge pumps and motors located adjacent to
thickener. Removal and replacement of existing manual ball valves with sewage air
release valves. Installation of associated electrical work.
Each bid proposal must be accompanied by a Cashier’s Check, Certified Check or a Bid
Bond from a reliable surety company drawn to the order of KLEINWOOD JOINT POWERS BOARD in the amount of five percent (5%) of the total bid. No bid proposal may be
withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days after the bid opening date. The OWNER reserves the right to reject any or all bids, or to accept the bid deemed most advantageous to it. The successful bidder will be required to provide a performance, payment,
and maintenance bond for the full amount of the contract.
A Pre-Bid Conference will be held at the offices of Baxter & Woodman, Inc., 11450
Compaq Center Dr. West, Suite 660, Houston, Texas 77070 onWEDNESDAY, MAY 15,
2024 AT 2:00 P.M. Attendance is not mandatory.
Specifications and Bid Documents are available online at https://www.civcastusa.com
or may be purchased at the offices of Baxter & Woodman, Inc., 11450 Compaq Center
Dr., Suite 660, Houston, Texas 77070, for a non-refundable fee of $50.00. Business
hours are Monday through Thursday from 7:30 A.M. until 5:00 P.M. and Fridays from
7:30 A.M. until 12:30 P.M. Telephone 281/350-7027.
ORDINANCE NO. 2024-08
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF TOMBALL, TEXAS, AMENDING CHAPTER 50 (ZONING) OF THE TOMBALL CODE OF ORDINANCES BY CHANGING THE ZONING DISTRICT
CLASSIFICATION OF APPROXIMATELY 0.87 ACRES OF LAND LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS
BEING A PORTION OF TOMBALL OUTLOT 286 FROM SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL –
20 (SF-20) TO COMMERCIAL (C). THE PROPERTY IS LOCATED WITHIN THE 900
BLOCK (NORTH SIDE) OF AGG ROAD, WITHIN THE CITY OF TOMBALL, HARRIS
COUNTY, TEXAS; PROVIDING FOR A PENALTY OF AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED
$2,000 FOR EACH DAY OF VIOLATION OF ANY PROVISION HEREOF, MAKING FINDINGS OF FACT; AND PROVIDING FOR OTHER RELATED MATTERS. SECOND READING
PASSED AND APPROVED ON MAY 6, 2024.

Texas Commission on environmenTal QualiTy

NOTICE TO BIDDERS-No. 2024-04
The City of Jersey Village is soliciting sealed proposals for Medical, Dental, Vision,
Basic Life/AD&D, Vol. Life/AD&D, and Long-Term Disability. Proposals must be
received by 2:00 PM CST on June 13, 2024 . Late proposals will not be accepted.
Proposal information may be obtained from HUB International,
alexander.hentze@hubinternational.com. Proposals shall be submitted electronically to:
alexander.hentze@hubinternational.com. The files must be clearly labeled –
“FULLY INSURED GROUP MEDICAL, DENTAL, VISION, LIFE AD&D, AND LONG-TERM
DISABILITY REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL – No. 2024-04.” The City of Jersey Village
reserves the right to reject any and all bids, in whole or in part, to waive any informality
in any bid, and to accept any bid, which, in its discretion, is in the best interest of the
City of Jersey Village. The City of Jersey Village is subject to the Texas Public
Information Act, a state law, which may require the City to make the information
provided in response to this request for applications available to the public upon
request. Therefore, responders are required to clearly mark any proprietary and/or
confidential information.
CITY OF JERSEY VILLAGE
OFFICIAL ADVERTISEMENT
Publication Dates: May 15, 2024, and May 22, 2024
s/Lorri Coody, City Secretary
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
Sealed bids in duplicate, will be received by CITY OF MAGNOLIA at Magnolia City Hall,
18111 Buddy Riley Blvd., Magnolia, Texas 77354, attention Mr. Tim Robertson, until
THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2024, AT 3:00 P.M ., at which time all bids will be opened and
publicly read for furnishing all material, equipment, labor and supervision necessary for
completion of the following:
AMARILLO DRIVE PAVEMENT REPLACEMENT
The major items of work include: Replacement of Amarillo Drive including removal of
existing surface and base, rework of subbase, installation of new base and new HMAC
surface; concrete driveway removal and replacement; widening and resurfacing of Smith
Road; storm sewer improvements and swale regrading; installation of a concrete pilot
channel; and site restoration.
Each bid proposal must be accompanied by a Bid Bond from a reliable surety company
drawn to the order of CITY OF MAGNOLIA in the amount of five percent (5%) of the total bid. No bid proposal may be withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days after the bid
opening date. The OWNER reserves the right to reject any or all bids, or to accept the
bid deemed most advantageous to it. The successful bidder will be required to provide
a performance, payment, and maintenance bond for the full amount of the contract.
A Pre-Bid Conference will be held at Magnolia City Hall, 18111 Buddy Riley Rd.,
Magnolia, Texas 77354 on THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2024, AT 3:00 P.M . Attendance is not
mandatory.
Specifications and Bid Documents are available online at https://www.civcastusa.com
or may be purchased at the offices of Baxter & Woodman, Inc., 11450 Compaq Center
Dr., Suite 660, Houston, Texas 77070, for a non-refundable fee of $50.00. Business
hours are Monday through Thursday from 7:30 A.M. until 5:00 P.M. and Fridays from
7:30 A.M. until 12:30 P.M. Telephone 281/350-7027.
Region 4 Education Services Center is requesting proposals from qualified and experienced firms to provide Background Screening, Related Products and Services (RFP
No.24-07). In order to be considered, the Offeror must complete and submit a proposal
to Region 4 ESC in accordance with the solicitation documentation available at www.reg
ion4esc.ionwave.net.
PRE-PROPOSAL CONFERENCE: Tuesday, May 21st, 2024, 10:00 am local time via
Zoom.

BUSINESS FINANCE MANAGER

AG&P Americas, Inc.
Spring, TX
See Below To Apply

PROPOSAL DUE DATE: June 20th, 2024, BEFORE 2:00 PM LOCAL

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

AG&P Americas, Inc.; Business Finance Manager; Spring, TX will collaborate with Managing Director and the Director of Operations to
monitor, analyze and improve business performance of operations;
own the setup and maintenance of projects in accounting system in
accordance with contract terms and accounting policies, including
rate schedule and customer billing requirements during the project
cycle from project initiation to project closeout. Must have a Bachelor’s degree, or foreign equivalent, in Accounting, Finance, Business
Administration or closely related field and 3 years of experience as
an accountant or related occupation with a multinational company.
Must have 3 years of experience working with multinational teams
across country, cultural and organizational boundaries. Must have a
CPA license. Apply for the ‘Business Finance Manager’ position at
https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/
recruitment.html?cid=f5689c4a-4496-4d18-bfff67a77a177d1e&ccId=273943701225_32582&lang=en_US&selectedM
enuKey=CareerCenter.

DIRECTOR OF STRINGS

Ethos School of Music
Magnolia, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

Ethos School of Music is seeking a Director of Strings to join
our Magnolia, TX office to lead our string music instruments
programand develop the Viola and Violin program curriculum.
The Director will work individually with students, including
conducting Violaand Violin private lessons, and prepare students
for Royal Conservatory of Music exams, college auditions, recitals,
and other performance-related activities. They will also manage
the training of other teachers and will work with Ethos Chamber
Players as a coach and as a part of the ensemble. Registration as
a Suzuki Association of the Americas (SSA) teacher is required.
The ideal applicant will have a Ph.D in music. Qualified applicants
may send resumé to Khoren Ouzounian at khoren@ethos.school
with reference Director of Upper Strings in the subject line.

TECHNICAL

Cisco Systems, Inc.
Spring, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

Cisco Systems, Inc. is accepting resumes for multiple positions in
Spring, TX: Leader, Software Engineering (Ref#: SPR160B): Lead
a team in the design and development of company’s software products. Telecommuting permitted. Quality Engineer (Ref#: SPR123B):
Responsible for all aspects of quality assurance / test for projects
and IT functions. Telecommuting permitted. Software Engineer
(Ref#: SPR103B): Responsible for the definition, design, development, test, debugging, release, enhancement or maintenance of
software. Telecommuting permitted. Please email resumes including
position’s reference number in subject line to Cisco Systems, Inc. at
amsjobs@cisco.com. No phone calls please. Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship. EOE.www.cisco.com

TECHNOLOGY

HP Inc.
Spring, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

HP Inc. is accepting resumes for the position of Software
Applications Engineer in Spring, TX (Ref. #7594874).
Leverages recognized domain expertise, business acumen,
and experience to influence decisions of executive business
leadership, outsourced development partners, and industry
standards groups. Telecommuting permitted. Annual Salary:
$198,588.00/year to $228,588.00/year. Email resume to HP
USA Jobs, jobshpusa@hp.com. Resume must include Ref. #,
full name, email address & mailing address. No phone calls. Must
be legally authorized to work in U.S. without sponsorship. EOE.

TECHNOLOGY

HP Inc.
Spring, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

HP Inc. is accepting resumes for the position of Technical
Operations Manager in Spring, TX (Ref. #6862265). Identifies
research, tools, and analyses required to achieve objectives for large,
complex technology projects. Telecommuting permitted.
Annual Salary: $135,160.65/year to $165,160.65/year. Email
resume to HP USA Jobs, jobshpusa@hp.com. Resume must include
Ref. #, full name, email address & mailing address. No phone calls.
Must be legally authorized to work in U.S. without sponsorship. EOE.

TECHNOLOGY

HP Inc.
Spring, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

HP Inc. is accepting resumes for the position of Firmware Architect
in Spring, TX (Ref. #7229653). Lead the overall firmware design on
new and complex system architecture in commercial notebook and
desktop systems. Telecommuting permitted. Annual Salary:
$145,000.00/year to $175,000.00/year. Email resume to HP USA
Jobs, jobshpusa@hp.com. Resume must include Ref. #, full name,
email address & mailing address. No phone calls. Must be legally
authorized to work in U.S. without sponsorship. EOE.

PORSCHE AIR-COOLED SPECIALIST

indiGO Auto Group Holdings, LLC.
Houston, TX
See Below to Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Exp Req/See Below
Full-Time

indiGO Auto Group Holdings, LLC. is seeking a Porsche Air-Cooled
Specialist, in Houston, TX to perform a diagnosis, review vehicle history files, request parts & complete required authorized repairs of
the vehicles. Completion of technical training school or factory
apprentice program or foreign eqiv, plus 8 years of exp. Apply online
at: https://www.indigoautogroup.com/careers Porsche Air-Cooled
Specialist, no calls, principals only.

TIME. CONTACT: Crystal Wallace, CTSBS Procurement and Operations Specialist, (713)
744-8189 or cwallace@esc4.net

NOTICE OF RECEIPT OF APPLICATION AND
INTENT TO OBTAIN WATER QUALITY PERMIT AMENDMENT
PERMIT NO. WQ0014452001
APPLICATION. Undine Texas Environmental, LLC, 17681 Telge
Road, Cypress, Texas 77429, has applied to the Texas Commission on
Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to amend Texas Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (TPDES) Permit No. WQ0014452001 (EPA I.D. No.
TX0125776) to authorize an increase to the discharge of treated domestic
wastewater to a volume not to exceed a daily average flow of 340,000
gallons per day. The domestic wastewater treatment facility is located
at 1329 29th Street, near the community of Port Bolivar, in Galveston
County, Texas 77650. The discharge route is from the plant site directly
to Intracoastal Waterway Tidal. TCEQ received this application on June
28, 2023. The permit application will be available for viewing and copying
at David Glenn Hunt Memorial Library, 4015 Avenue Q, Galveston,
Texas prior to the date this notice is published in the newspaper. This link
to an electronic map of the site or facility's general location is provided as
a public courtesy and not part of the application or notice. For the exact
location, refer to the application.
https://gisweb.tceq.texas.gov/LocationMapper/?marker=-94.7475,
29.395&level=18
The application is subject to the goals and policies of the Texas Coastal
Management Program and must be consistent with the applicable
Coastal Management Program goals and policies.
ADDITIONAL NOTICE. TCEQ's Executive Director has determined
the application is administratively complete and will conduct a technical
review of the application. After technical review of the application is
complete, the Executive Director may prepare a draft permit and will
issue a preliminary decision on the application. Notice of the Application
and Preliminary Decision will be published and mailed to those who are
on the county-wide mailing list and to those who are on the mailing list
for this application. That notice will contain the deadline for submitting
public comments.
PUBLIC COMMENT / PUBLIC MEETING. You may submit public
comments or request a public meeting on this application. The purpose
of a public meeting is to provide the opportunity to submit comments or
to ask questions about the application. TCEQ will hold a public meeting
if the Executive Director determines that there is a significant degree of
public interest in the application or if requested by a local legislator. A
public meeting is not a contested case hearing.
OPPORTUNITY FOR A CONTESTED CASE HEARING. After the
deadline for submitting public comments, the Executive Director will
consider all timely comments and prepare a response to all relevant
and material, or significant public comments. Unless the application is
directly referred for a contested case hearing, the response to comments,
and the Executive Director's decision on the application, will be mailed
to everyone who submitted public comments and to those persons who
are on the mailing list for this application. If comments are received, the
mailing will also provide instructions for requesting reconsideration of
the Executive Director's decision and for requesting a contested case
hearing. A contested case hearing is a legal proceeding similar to a civil
trial in state district court.
TO REQUEST A CONTESTED CASE HEARING, YOU MUST
INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING ITEMS IN YOUR REQUEST: your
name, address, phone number; applicant's name and proposed permit
number; the location and distance of your property/activities relative to
the proposed facility; a specific description of how you would be adversely
affected by the facility in a way not common to the general public; a
list of all disputed issues of fact that you submit during the comment
period and, the statement “[I/we] request a contested case hearing.”
If the request for contested case hearing is filed on behalf of a group or
association, the request must designate the group's representative for
receiving future correspondence; identify by name and physical address
an individual member of the group who would be adversely affected by
the proposed facility or activity; provide the information discussed above
regarding the affected member's location and distance from the facility
or activity; explain how and why the member would be affected; and
explain how the interests the group seeks to protect are relevant to the
group's purpose.
Following the close of all applicable comment and request periods,
the Executive Director will forward the application and any requests
for reconsideration or for a contested case hearing to the TCEQ
Commissioners for their consideration at a scheduled Commission
meeting.
The Commission may only grant a request for a contested case hearing
on issues the requestor submitted in their timely comments that were not
subsequently withdrawn. If a hearing is granted, the subject of a hearing
will be limited to disputed issues of fact or mixed questions of fact and
law relating to relevant and material water quality concerns submitted
during the comment period.
MAILING LIST. If you submit public comments, a request for a
contested case hearing or a reconsideration of the Executive Director's
decision, you will be added to the mailing list for this specific application
to receive future public notices mailed by the Office of the Chief Clerk. In
addition, you may request to be placed on: (1) the permanent mailing list
for a specific applicant name and permit number; and/or (2) the mailing
list for a specific county. If you wish to be placed on the permanent and/
or the county mailing list, clearly specify which list(s) and send your
request to TCEQ Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below.
INFORMATION AVAILABLE ONLINE. For details about the status
of the application, visit the Commissioners' Integrated Database at
www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/cid. Search the database using the permit
number for this application, which is provided at the top of this notice.
AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION. Public comments and
requests must be submitted either electronically at https://www14.tceq.
texas.gov/epic/eComment/, or in writing to the Texas Commission
on Environmental Quality, Office of the Chief Clerk, MC-105, P.O. Box
13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. Please be aware that any contact
information you provide, including your name, phone number, email
address, and physical address will become part of the agency's public
record. For more information about this permit application or the
permitting process, please call the TCEQ Public Education Program,
Toll Free, at 1-800-687-4040 or visit their website at www.tceq.texas.
gov/goto/pep. Si desea información en Español, puede llamar al
1-800-687-4040.
Further information may also be obtained from Undine Texas
Environmental, LLC at the address stated above or by calling
Mr. Jeff Goebel at 713-574-5953.
Issuance Date: February 14, 2024

Application has been made with the Texas
Alcoholic Beverage Commission for a MIXED
BEVERAGE LICENSE (MB) by CMT CYPRESS
INDEPENDENT LIVING, LLC dba CMT CYPRESS
INDEPENDENT LIVING, LLC, to be located at
16302 SPRING CYPRESS ROAD, CYPRESS,
TEXAS UNITED STATES, HARRIS COUNTY 77429.
Officers of said corporation are BRIAN BOLLICH,
MANAGER
LEGAL NOTICE
Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic
Beverage Commission for a [BQ Wine and Malt
Beverage Retail Dealers Off Premise Permit] by Luisa
Obando, Della Casa, LLC dba DellaCasa Pasta
Market, to be located at 22525 Hufsmith-Kohrville
Road, Tomball, Harris, Texas. Officers of said
corporation Luisa Obando, CEO.
LEGAL NOTICE
Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic
Beverage Commission for a Wine and Malt Beverage
Retailer’s On-Premise Permit by Once Upon A
Cowboy LLC. dba [ONCE UPON A COWBOY], to be
located at 24935 Stuebner Airline Rd., Tomball,
Harris, Texas. Officers of said corporation are Sergio
Caro Del Castillo Hernandez, CEO, Bibiana De Anda
Leon, CFO.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE
Pursuant to Chapter 59 of the Texas Property Code, Cy-Fair Storage, located at
11650 Barker Cypress in Cypress, TX
77433 will hold an auction on
StorageTreasures.com to satisfy landlord’s
lien. Auction ends May 29, 2024 9am.
Units will be sold to highest bidder for
cash. Seller has the right to deny any bid
& to withdraw unit from sale. Units for
bid; P072 Mary Hall-Hogan, A012
Chrystal Singh, B110 & D350 Robert
Morlan, C110 Jessica Esteves, F201
Ladonna Fields, E458 Karla Perez, E519
Latoya Chatman, D328 Heidi Howland,
D316 Steven Ayala, F232 Ali Sanchez,
E495 John Davis, A059 Jennifer
Fontenot, D302 Jamari Palbusa, D370 Allen Lopez.
ORDINANCE NO. 2024-07
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF
TOMBALL, TEXAS, AMENDING CHAPTER
50 (ZONING) OF THE TOMBALL CODE OF
ORDINANCES BY CHANGING THE ZONING DISTRICT CLASSIFICATION OF APPROXIMATELY 31.12 ACRES OF LAND LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS BEING PORTIONS
OF THE J H EDWARDS SURVEY, ABSTRACT 20 AND THE C GOODRICH SURVEY, ABSTRACT 311 FROM AGRICULTURAL (AG) TO SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL - 6 (SF-6). THE PROPERTY IS LOCATED WITHIN THE 22100 BLOCK
(WEST SIDE) OF TOMBALL CEMETERY
ROAD, WITHIN THE CITY OF TOMBALL,
HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS; PROVIDING
FOR A PENALTY OF AN AMOUNT NOT
TO EXCEED $2,000 FOR EACH DAY OF
VIOLATION OF ANY PROVISION HEREOF,
MAKING FINDINGS OF FACT; AND PROVIDING FOR OTHER RELATED MATTERS.
SECOND READING PASSED AND APPROVED ON MAY 6, 2024.
Towed vehicle final notice
2023 white GMC YUKON vin #
1GKS2JKL3MR274525
On 02/01/24 from 2715 forest trail by
Harris county sheriffs department to mills
rd auto storage at 9310 mills rd Houston
tx 77070 and its available for pick up
24/7 with one hour notice and proof of
ownership
The charges are $145.50 for towing
$22.85 a day for storage + tax $22.85 impound + tax and $50.00 notification this
storage facility except payments by cash
check credit card debit card and Zelle

The Region 4 Education
Service Center (ESC),
Houston, TX is requesting
proposals from qualified and
experienced firms to provide
Oracle Products and Services
(RFP No. 24-02). In order to be
considered, the Offeror must
complete Ion Wave
Technologies, Inc. registration
and submit a proposal to Region
4 ESC in accordance with the
solicitation link
https://region4esc.ionwave.net/
this link is also available
at www.esc4.net or https://www.
omniapartners.com/publicsector
/solicitations
VIRTUAL PRE-PROPOSAL
CONFERENCE: Thursday,
May 9, 2024, 10:00 am CST.
PROPOSAL DUE DATE:
June 6, 2024, BEFORE 2:00
PM CENTRAL TIME.
The Region 4 Education
Service Center (ESC),
Houston, TX is requesting
proposals from qualified and
experienced firms to provide
Software Solutions and
Services (RFP No. 24-03).
In order to be considered,
the Offeror must complete Ion
Wave Technologies, Inc.
registration and submit
a proposal to Region 4 ESC in
accordance with the solicitation
link
https://region4esc.ionwave.net/
this link is also available
at www.esc4.net or https://www.
omniapartners.com/publicsector
/solicitations
VIRTUAL PRE-PROPOSAL
CONFERENCE: Thursday,
May 9, 2024, 11:00 am CST.
PROPOSAL DUE DATE:
June 6, 2024, BEFORE 2:00
PM CENTRAL TIME.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A5

CYPRESS CREEK MIRROR | THE POTPOURRI |

CALENDAR
MAY 15
Food Drive: Tomball
Emergency Assistance
Ministries (TEAM) in partnership with Michael Truitt
and Greater Tomball Area
Chamber of Commerce
Ambassadors presents a
food drive from 10 a.m. to 2
p.m. at various locations
on May 15.
To help families in need
during the summer
months, when local
schools will no longer be
providing food for children,
the volunteers are looking
for non-perishable and
un-expired food items.
Drop-off locations include
TEAM on Main Street,
Regions Bank, Premiere
Cinemas and TWFG Denise Davis Insurance on SH
249, New Health MD on
Graham, Mathnasium
Tomball on FM 2920, ADIM
Media on Village Square
and Jonah's Movers on
Theis Lane.
TEAM is located at 300 W.
Main Street in Tomball.
Learn more at
www.facebook.com/teamtomballtexas.

MAY 17
Brooks & Dunn: Legendary
country duo Brooks &
Dunn will perform at 7 p.m.
on May 17 at Cynthia
Woods Mitchell Pavilion in
The Woodlands. Lawn
seats are $45.
The duo's first single,
1991's "Brand New Man,"
made it all the way to the
top of the chart, followed
by others in proceeding
years like "Neon Moon,"
"Boot Scootin' Boogie,"
"She Used to Be Mine,"
and "Red Dirt Road." David
Lee Murphy and Ernest
opens.
The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion is located at
2005 Lake Robbins Drive
in The Woodlands. Learn
more at
www.woodlandscenter.org
or call 281-210-1125.
Hello, Dolly: Playhouse
1960 presents the musical
Hello, Dolly! with performances at 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays May
17-June 1 and three afternoon performances at 3
p.m. on May 19, 26 and
June 2. Adult tickets are
$24.
One of the most enduring
musical theater hits, the
stage musical includes
music by Jerry Herman and
a book by Michael Stewart
and focuses on a matchmaker's pursuit to find true
love for an unmarried
half-a-millionaire. The
local performance is di-

File photo

The Beatles tribute band Fab 5 will perform at 6 p.m. on May 18 at Wild Stallion Vineyards. Tickets start at
$23. Based in Houston, the band has performed corporate parties, New Year’s Eve celebrations, music
festivals and has appeared at many of the city’s best known music venues. Wild Stallion Vineyards is
located at 5969 West Rayford in Spring. Learn more at www.wildstallionvineyards.com or call 281-803-9463.
rected by John Sallinger
and features Rae Dobrovolsky as Dolly and Fernando Fernandez as Horace.
Playhouse 1960 is located
at 6814 Gant Road in
Houston. Learn more at
www.playhouse1960.com.

MAY 18
ZZ Tribute: ZZ Top tribute
artist trio ZZ Tex will perform at 8 p.m. on May 18 at
Main Street Crossing in
Tomball. Tickets start at
$45.
Complete with long
beards, cheap sunglasses
and spinning fuzzy guitars
this tribute band from
Dallas has been performing the ZZ Top hits for
more than 15 years.
Main Street Crossing is
located at 111 W. Main
Street in Tomball. Learn
more at
www.mainstreetcrossing.com or call 281-290-0431.
Tomball tidy: The secondever Tidy Up Tomball
event is set for 8 a.m. on
May 18 at First Baptist
Church in Tomball and
organizations, businesses

and volunteers from the
greater area will participate to remove litter from
areas adjacent to public
roadways. The event was
rescheduled from May 4.
Local organizations are
forming teams and participants must sign up online
beforehand. The effort is
thanks to a new local
non-profit organization
that started last year and
during its first event, it
removed more than 300
pounds of trash from Tomball road sides.
First Baptist Church in
Tomball is located at 400
Houston Street in Tomball.
Learn more at
www.tidyuptomball.com.
Fab 5: The Beatles tribute
band Fab 5 will perform at
6 p.m. on May 18 at Wild
Stallion Vineyards. Tickets
start at $23.
Based in Houston, the
band has performed corporate parties, New Year’s
Eve celebrations, music
festivals and has appeared
at many of the city’s best
known music venues.
Wild Stallion Vineyards is
located at 5969 West
Rayford in Spring. Learn

more at
www.wildstallionvineyards.com or call 281-8039463.
Texas Tenors: The Texas
Tenors will perform at 7:30
p.m. on May 18 at The
Centrum, presented by the
Cypress Creek Foundation
for the Arts and Community Enrichment. Tickets
start at $45.
The Texas Tenors will
perform as part of their
15th Anniversary Tour, and
it is the last performance
of the Cypress Creek FACE
2023-2024 Star-Lit Series.
The trio vocal group
formed in 2009 and later
that year appeared on the
fourth season of America's
Got Talent. Since then,
they've recorded five studio albums and performed
more than 2,000 concerts.
The Centrum is located at
6823 Cypresswood Drive in
Spring. Learn more at
www.cypresscreekface.org.
Uli Jon Roth: German
guitarist Uli Jon Roth, formerly of The Scorpions,
will perform at 8:30 p.m.
on May 18 at Dosey Doe
The Big Barn. Tickets start
at $88.

Credited as one of the
earliest contributors to the
neoclassical metal genre,
Roth formed Dawn Road
that merged with The
Scorpions in 1974. In 1978,
he left The Scorpions and
formed Electric Sun and
designed and invented his
own guitar with Andreas
Demetriou called the Sky
Guitar, containing more
frets and higher notes than
your typical electric sixstring.
Dosey Doe The Big Barn is
located at 25911 I-45 North
in The Woodlands. Learn
more at
www.doseydoe.com or call
281-367-3774.

MAY 22
Blossom Brigade: Mercer
Botanic Gardens presents
a regular event each Wednesday in May including at
9 a.m. on May 22 called
Blossom Brigade.
The free event provides an
opportunity for volunteers
age 16 and up to help
maintain the center's
pollinator garden and
honeybee corral. Volunteers are asked to wear

outdoor clothing, closedtoe shoes, a sun visor and
to bring their own water
bottle.
Mercer Botanic Gardens is
located at 22306 Aldine
Westfield Road in Humble.
Learn more at
www.facebook.com/MercerBotanicGardens or call
713-274-4166.
Care packing: Local nonprofit organization Boots
for Troops and Captain
Brad's is joining forces to
present a Peel for a Purpose event at 6:30 p.m. on
May 22 at Captain Brad's
Coastal Kitchen.
The restaurant will be
selling crawfish and donating $1 for every pound to
the local organization,
which will begin packing
care packages for troops at
6:30 p.m. Volunteers can
also bring extra supplies to
donate like snacks, hygiene
items, socks and more.
Captain Brad's Coastal
Kitchen is located at
24435 Tomball Parkway in
Tomball. Learn more at
www.facebook.com/
bootsfortroopsusa.
Service project: The
Spring Klein Rotary Club
will meet from 5 to 7 p.m.
on May 22 at Abundant
Harvest food pantry instead of their regular
meeting spot.
The group and its guests
will help with stocking
duties and assist clients as
they shop at the food
pantry.
Abundant Harvest is located at 24803 Oakhurst
Drive in Spring. Learn more
at
www.harvestkitchen.org.
May 24
Girl's night: Girl's Night
Out the Show will perform
at 8 p.m. on May 24 at The
Barn at Frio Grill in Cypress. Tickets to the 21and-up show start at $20
in advance if purchased
online.
Men with muscles that like
to dance and entertain
guests will perform to
music and will meet and
greet an audience that
enjoys gazing at men.
The Barn at The Frio is
located at 16416 Mueschke
Road in Cypress. Learn
more at
www.facebook.com/thebarnatfrio.

Entertainment roundup is
a weekly feature compiled
by freelance writer Brandon Moeller. Send entertainment submissions to
Brandon at
moellerbrandon
@gmail.com.

Area Latino residents playing big economic role
By Jhair Romero
STA FF WRIT E R

Houston-area Latinos
have played an outsized
role in growing the region’s economy in recent
years, according to a study
published this week.
From 2018 to 2021, Latinos were responsible for
68.3% of the metropolitan
area’s gross domestic
product growth despite
making up about 40% of
the population.
The study, funded by
Bank of America, found
the share of Latinos in the
Houston metro’s labor
force grew by 39% from
2010 to 2021, compared to
only 14% for non-Latinos
in the same period. Researchers from California
Lutheran University and
UCLA’s Center for the
Study of Latino Health and
Culture produced the
analysis.
“Those increased numbers have allowed the region to grow and prosper,
and jobs have been
brought to these areas and
businesses,” said longtime
Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce President Laura Murillo. She
added that Houston suburbs with growing Latino
populations, such as Katy
and Spring, are some of the
biggest beneficiaries of the
growth.
Researchers cited the
Houston area’s young Latino population to explain
the economic boost in recent years. (About a third
of the city’s Hispanic population is under 18, and
43% is between 18 and 44,
according to the University of Houston’s Hobby
School of Public Affairs.)
The Cal Lutheran and

UCLA study said the metro’s coming-of-age Latinos are “overwhelmingly”
second- and third-generation Americans, and the
number of Latinos with a
bachelor’s degree grew at a
rate 2.9 times that of nonLatinos from 2010-21.
These shifts, though
more evident in the Houston area, have also played
out on larger scales despite
the
disproportionately
high mortality rates Latinos faced in the first years
of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The study said that in
2021, Latinos contributed
$581.2 billion to the Texas
economy, with the top sectors being finance and real

estate, government, professional and business services, mining and quarrying, and construction.
And across the country,
the Latino population’s total economic output in 2021
was $3.2 trillion. The Latino GDP grew by 7.1% that
year, about 2% more than
that of non-Latinos.
Murillo said she hopes
studies like this will influence how companies, from
small businesses to large
corporations, market toward and hire Latino consumers and workers. The
purchasing power of U.S.
Latinos reached $3.4 trillion in 2021, according to
an Arizona State University study published last

year.
“I can’t imagine there’s a
corporation that can afford
to overlook 45% of the demographic,” she said, referring to Latinos’ large
share of Houston’s population. “And these are not anecdotal stories. These are
hard facts. It’s data.”
A recent census data release revealed that the
Houston
metropolitan
area grew by almost
140,000 last year, with
Harris County accounting
for more than a third of
that growth.
Although the U.S. Census Bureau won’t release
more detailed demographic information — such as
population by age, sex,

race and Hispanic origin
— until this summer, the
data shows much of the
county’s
population
growth was fueled by international migration.
More than 41,100 immigrants moved to Harris
County last year, second in
the country only to Flori-

da’s Miami-Dade County.
We won’t know exactly
how much Latinos contributed to that population
growth until June, but Murillo sees a clear trend.
“As go Hispanics, so
goes Houston,” Murillo
said. “And the rest of the
country for that matter.”

A6 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

A

CYPRESS CREEK MIRROR | THE POTPOURRI |

CYPRESS CREEK MIRROR | THE POTPOURRI |

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A7

A8 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

CYPRESS CREEK MIRROR | THE POTPOURRI |

!

CHAMPIONS |
KLEIN | SPRING

Look for grocery
coupons inside

CHAMPIONS | KLEIN | SPRING
CypressCreekMirror
CYPRESSCREEKMIRROR.COM

•

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

• VOL. 14, NO. 20

•

50 CENTS

MONTHS

S2 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

CYPRESS CREEK MIRROR | THE POTPOURRI |

NE

1273

Look
Lookfor
foryour
yourgrocery
grocerycoupons
couponsinside!
inside!
ADVICE: Medicare enrollment explained. A2
Look for grocery
coupons inside
TOMBALL | MAGNOLIA
YOURTOMBALLNEWS.COM

•

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

• VOL. 48, NO. 20

•

50 CENTS

AN EDITION OF

Photos by Kirk Sides/Staff photographer

Magnolia West tennis coach Tatiana Ruhl and professional pickleball player works on her backhand stroke as she hits a few practice volleys.

PLAYER COACH

Magnolia West High School assistant
tennis coach doubles as rising pickleball star
By Dennis Silva II
STA FF WRIT E R

Tatiana Ruhl is a long way from
entertaining any thought of her life’s
legacy. But the Magnolia West assistant tennis coach knows what she
wants out of who she is.
“Whenever I was growing up as a
little kid, I’d see these young women
and adults and think they were
amazing,” Ruhl said. “I’d find them
inspiring and look up to them. My
mom, too. These strong women who
were my role models.
“So if people are looking up to me,
I want to be that person that I looked
up to when I was a little kid. That
really resonates with me. Like, what
would little Tatiana think?”
Little Tatiana would be quite impressed.

It took awhile, but Tatiana Ruhl is now just as comfortable with a
pickleball paddle as she is a tennis racket.

ADVICE

HEALTH

HELP FOR
ANTIQUES

FAST
DIET

PAGE A2

PAGE A5

Zinsser hits the spot for
customers who have
antique furniture stinking
up the house.

Thinking about using
intermittent fasting to lose
some weight? Be careful,
say the doctors.

Ruhl was Magnolia West’s first
girls district tennis champion in singles, winning as a senior in 2014. Ten
years later, Ruhl is not only giving
back to her alma mater but is a rising
star in pickleball, named the fastestgrowing sport in America for the
third year in a row with almost 9 million players, according to a 2023
Sports & Fitness Industry Association report.
Five years after picking up the
paddle sport that combines parts of
tennis, badminton and pingpong,
Ruhl is ranked No. 20 in women’s
doubles on the Association of Pickleball Players Tour and No. 48 in women’s doubles on the PPA Pickleball
Tour.
Ruhl, who played tennis at Prairie
View A&M, where she was a team
Coach continues on A3

A2 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

CYPRESS CREEK MIRROR | THE POTPOURRI |

ADVICE
HOME IMPROVEMENT

Zinsser hits the spot for antique furniture
Many of my
customers have
furniture from
their parents or
relatives that
mean so much
Trudy
to them. It
Chuoke
might have been
Mom’s dressing
H AP PY
H A N DYMA N
table, or Dad’s
bedside table
and just looking at them brings
back many memories. I have a
few things that I have kept
from my late husband, and I
just like having them in the
house...a sweet remembrance
of the time we had together.
But sometimes the furniture
pieces that you get from your
family have been in storage. I
have this friend who collected
from her mom’s estate. The
furniture and clothing had
been stored in a barn. A very

stinky barn. And the furniture
had adsorbed all the odor.
She told me about all the
different things she tried before
coming to me. She tried airing
it out, she put charcoal in the
drawers, she cleaned it with a
degreaser, but the furniture
smelled so bad she couldn’t
keep it in the house. So she
asked me for help.
Zinsser makes great primers.
Primers for sheetrock that is
crumbling, primers for peeling
paint and a primer for odor.
Older furniture is made so well,
all wood no composite or laminates and that old wood can be
a sponge absorbing odors.
Odor Killing Primer can be
painted on a surface, and it will
seal in the offensive smell. My
friend sealed all the drawers
and the inside of the drawer.
Then she wanted to put a new

finish on the outside of the
furniture, and I suggested Varathane. Her pieces now made
their way into the house.
Another way to use Zinsser
is on kitchen cabinets. If you
had smoke damage from a
kitchen fire and nothing gets
rid of the odor in the cabinets.
You don’t have to have your
whole kitchen torn down. Try
Zinsser first. I used it on my
kitchen cabinets because the
previous owner was a smoker.
That smoke permeated into the
cabinets and when I would
leave for a trip and come backthe whole house had this lingering smell like someone had
been smoking inside my house.
When I finally figured out
what was causing the odor…..I
used Zinsser. All I had to do
was seal the inside of all the
cabinets, and there was no

lingering odor when I returned
from the trip. And this primer
goes on milky so you can see
where you have applied the
primer and then dries clear.

Now to some great
email…..

Question: After listening
to your Saturday afternoon
show on WOAI, I have decided to remove the silicone
caulk in my shower. So how
can I remove the caulk and
what caulk would you suggest that I replace for the
silicone?
Answer: Contractor’s DeSolv-It is great for removing
silicone caulk. First, use a single edged razor blade to cut the
caulk right down the middlw
and along each side. Then
spray the caulk with De-Solv-It.
Spray every 15 minutes for an

hour. Then re-caulk with Sashco Sealant Clean Seal. It has a
7-year guarantee to resist mildew. Allow 48 hours to cure.
Question: I have slippery
steps on a small outdoor
deck. I know that you paint
them with a texture paint,
but I love the color of the
deck and I don’t want to
change that – so is there
something else that is not an
abrasive tread.
Answer: Absolutely yes!
There is a tread that is soft to
the touch but will provide traction and a safe step. They are
called Handi Treads. I like
them because they are translucent and don’t stand out on the
deck. You can use Handi
Treads on wet surfaces also like
in the tub and shower.
www.happyhandyman.com

HEALTH CARE

Medicare enrollment process explained
Toni: I need
to make the
right Medicare
decision because I turn 65
in August and
have
not had a
Toni
health plan for
King
2 years. I do
M E D ICA RE
not know
ADV IC E
where to start
or what to do.
My friends are advising me if
I do not sign up for Medicare
when I turn 65, I will be making a major Medicare mistake.
Can you please simplify the
Medicare enrollment process?
Thanks, Toni
Cynthia, Alvin

Hi Cynthia: Medicare is exploding with an American turning 65 every 8 seconds.
The Medicare basics America
needs to know are:

1) Remember to enroll at the

right time:

a) Turning 65 and receiving
your Social Security check, your
“Welcome to Medicare” kit will
be mailed to you with your
Medicare card 90 days before
you turn 65.
b) Turning 65 and NOT receiving your Social Security check and
not working full time with true
employer group health insurance from either you or your
spouse’s work, you may want to
enroll in Medicare Parts A and
B online via www.ssa.gov.
c) Turning 65, working full-time
with “true” employer group health
insurance whether through your
or your spouse’s employer benefits may want to delay enrolling
in Medicare until you or your
spouse retire or are laid off.

2) Medicare is not free

Medicare covers a lot and
there is a cost associated with
Medicare Parts A and B. The

premium for Part A is at no cost
if you worked 10 years or 40
quarters and paid Medicare
taxes. Medicare Part B has a
premium which is means-tested
depending on your annual income. In 2024, most Medicare
beneficiaries pay $174.70 each
month for their Part B premium. Medicare Part A (hospital)
deductible for 2024 is $1,632, not
once a year but is every 60 days
or 6 times a year. The 2024
Medicare Part B deductible is
$240 once a year with Medicare
paying 80% of the Medicareapproved amount and you paying the remaining 20%.

3) Learn the different
Medicare Parts (A, B, C and
D)
Original Medicare is Medicare Parts A and B which covers hospital, medical and provider expenses. Medicare Part
C, known as Medicare Ad-

vantage plan, is another way of
receiving your Medicare benefits. Part D is the Medicare
Prescription Drug plan that can
be a stand-alone plan with Original Medicare and a Medicare
Supplement, or with a Medicare
Advantage plan that includes a
prescription drug plan.

4) “Original” Medicare

Original Medicare Parts A
and B have no network. Medicare Part A covers in-patient
hospital, skilled nursing/rehab
facility, home health and hospice care. Medicare Part B covers doctor services whether at
the office or surgical care, outpatient surgery/services, lab/Xrays, MRIs, durable medical
equipment, and preventative
services.

5) Medicare Advantage Plan
(MAPD)
You must be enrolled in Orig-

inal Medicare to qualify for a
Medicare Advantage Plan and
can select various Medicare
Advantage plans (Medicare Part
C) such as an HMO or PPO
plans that are offered by private
insurance companies. A MAPD
plan has an insurance provider
network with health care professionals or facilities that provide lower in-network rates.
You do not use your Medicare
(red, white, and blue) card because Medicare will pay the
MAPD plan for your care. You
will have co-pays, deductibles
and maximum out-of-pocket
costs associated with your
medical care.
Confused about Medicare Workshop in Katy is “Live” Thursday,
May 23 at 6 p.m. at Spring Creek
BBQ-Katy, 21000 Katy Frwy,
Katy, TX. 77449. RSVP:832/5198664 or visit www.tonisays.com.
Dinner not included.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A3

CYPRESS CREEK MIRROR | THE POTPOURRI |

Region’s Latino residents playing big economic role
By Jhair Romero
STA FF WRIT E R

Houston-area Latinos
have played an outsized
role in growing the region’s economy in recent
years, according to a
study published this
week.
From 2018 to 2021, Latinos were responsible for
68.3% of the metropolitan
area’s gross domestic
product growth despite
making up about 40% of
the population.
The study, funded by
Bank of America, found
the share of Latinos in the
Houston metro’s labor
force grew by 39% from
2010 to 2021, compared to
only 14% for non-Latinos
in the same period. Re-

COACH
From page A1
captain and helped lead
the Panthers to two conference championships,
first became intrigued
with pickleball because of
what she couldn’t do.
“Here I was, a D1 tennis
player who couldn’t make
contact,” Ruhl said. “The
competitor in me just
could not suck at pickleball, so I kept going back.”
Now Ruhl is sponsored
by Gearbox, a pickleball
equipment company, and
AIM7, a pickleball training device company. She
competes in two to three
pro events a month, funded by sponsors and her
salary as an audio/visual
tech teacher and coach at
Magnolia West.
“A career in pickleball
can last really long,” said
Ruhl, who turned 28 in
January. “But I’m a young
lady. I want my parents to
have grandkids someday;
I want a family of my own
and want to settle down.
So I really want to give this
a go in the next five to 10
years. Not just to see how

searchers from California
Lutheran University and
UCLA’s Center for the
Study of Latino Health
and Culture produced the
analysis.
“Those increased numbers have allowed the region to grow and prosper,
and jobs have been
brought to these areas and
businesses,” said longtime Houston Hispanic
Chamber of Commerce
President Laura Murillo.
She added that Houston
suburbs with growing Latino populations, such as
Katy and Spring, are some
of the biggest beneficiaries of the growth.
Researchers cited the
Houston area’s young Latino population to explain
the economic boost in re-

cent years. (About a third
of the city’s Hispanic population is under 18, and
43% is between 18 and 44,
according to the University of Houston’s Hobby
School of Public Affairs.)
The Cal Lutheran and
UCLA study said the metro’s coming-of-age Latinos are “overwhelmingly”
second- and third-generation Americans, and the
number of Latinos with a
bachelor’s degree grew at
a rate 2.9 times that of
non-Latinos from 2010-21.
These shifts, though
more evident in the Houston area, have also played
out on larger scales despite the disproportionately high mortality rates
Latinos faced in the first
years of the COVID-19

pandemic.
The study said that in
2021, Latinos contributed
$581.2 billion to the Texas
economy, with the top sectors being finance and
real estate, government,
professional and business
services, mining and
quarrying, and construction.
And across the country,
the Latino population’s total economic output in
2021 was $3.2 trillion. T
he Latino GDP grew by
7.1% that year, about 2%
more than that of non-Latinos.
Murillo said she hopes
studies like this will influence how companies,
from small businesses to
large corporations, market toward and hire Lati-

no consumers and workers. The purchasing power of U.S. Latinos reached
$3.4 trillion in 2021, according to an Arizona
State University study
published last year.
“I can’t imagine there’s
a corporation that can afford to overlook 45% of the
demographic,” she said,
referring to Latinos’ large
share of Houston’s population. “And these are not
anecdotal stories. These
are hard facts. It’s data.”
A recent census data release revealed that the
Houston
metropolitan
area grew by almost
140,000 last year, with
Harris County accounting
for more than a third of
that growth.
Although the U.S. Cen-

sus Bureau won’t release
more detailed demographic information —
such as population by age,
sex, race and Hispanic origin — until this summer,
the data shows much of
the county’s population
growth was fueled by international migration.
More than 41,100 immigrants moved to Harris
County last year, second
in the country only to
Florida’s
Miami-Dade
County. We won’t know
exactly how much Latinos
contributed to that population growth until June,
but Murillo sees a clear
trend.
“As go Hispanics, so
goes Houston,” Murillo
said. “And the rest of the
country for that matter.”

good I can be, but I want to
really prove that I’m a top
10 women’s player in the
world in doubles.”
A late bloomer, Ruhl
didn’t start taking tennis
seriously until the eighth
grade. Her father, Steve,
taught her the game.
Along with her mother
Margarita, the three often
played on courts at Magnolia Junior High.
When it was time to
pick a sport going into
high school, Ruhl, debating among tennis, basketball and cross country, realized she enjoyed being
by herself. And trying to
control the little yellow
ball was fun.
“It was this internal
power to get the ball to a
particular spot and so
much focus on spins and
the core within … I felt so
in control,” Ruhl said. “It’s
a very mental and strategic chess game if you play
it at a high level. It’s fun to
manipulate the ball in different ways.”
When Ruhl arrived on
campus as a freshman,
Magnolia West coach
Vern Swisher, who is in
his 16th year at the helm of

the Mustangs’ tennis program, saw a raw, inexperienced player, but one with
athletic ability.
More importantly, Ruhl
had a hunger to learn and
get better.
“I usually like to identify the ones that want it or
have some potential and
talent,” Swisher said.
“The kids that are willing
to work and who really
want to succeed. She was
obviously one of those.”
Beyond the summer
camps he taught, Swisher,
a highly regarded professional
tennis
coach,
agreed to a one-hour private lesson each week in
The Woodlands at Ruhl’s
request. Even if the hour
expired, Swisher stayed,
free of charge.
“What did he not do?”
Ruhl said. “I had a great
respect for him from the
beginning, but he saw
something in me. I’m really a creation of him and
what he instilled in me,
and I took that and ran
with it.”
Ruhl was a good athlete. Her positivity and
work ethic were infectious. The forehand was

her best stroke, and she
was agile and quick on her
feet.
She displayed innate
racket coordination, a
skill she would come to
lean on in pickleball.
“It’s a different type of
athleticism and a different
type of training that you’re
teaching your brain,”
Ruhl said. “It’s an extension of your arm, which is
weird, but you also have to
make contact consistently
with whatever you’re
holding.”
Everything came together in Ruhl’s senior
year. Swisher and Ruhl
decided she would play
only singles to give her the
best chance at winning a
district
championship
and getting to regionals.
It was not easy for
someone who prides herself on the relationships
she creates. It meant Ruhl
leaving her doubles partner. But it worked out.
“It goes back to her being coachable, as far as us
finding the best strategy
and best technique for her
and she’s going to apply
it,” Swisher said.
When Swisher was

looking for an assistant
coach four years ago, Ruhl
was the first person who
came to mind.
She never strayed from
the program, not during
her college years at Prairie
View A&M or her time
teaching music at Sawmill
Elementary, about five
miles from Magnolia
West.
Ruhl helped Swisher
with summer camps and
always maintained a
strong repertoire with the
kids.
“We knew right away
she’d be a perfect fit, and
she has been,” Swisher
said. “She’s very competitive. She wants the best for
her kids. She’s still evolving as a coach. She’s finding her way and learning
and trying to get better.”
Ruhl’s insatiable drive
comes from coaches she
had growing up. She was
in ballet. She did karate.
She played soccer, basketball and softball. She ice
skated.
“I had so many coaches
who really see something
in you and help you get
better,” Ruhl said. “They
teach you how to do that

and you feel that success.
To be impactful was
something they made me
want to do. I want to be
good at whatever I do and
make an impact wherever
I go.”
Ruhl longs to do right
by her hometown, which
she says she never wants
to leave.
“I am molding and creating the community and
helping it, which is really
important to me,” Ruhl
said.
“Magnolia’s
a
charming town. It’s cute,
it’s patriotic, it’s Friday
night football, but it’s everyone helping each other
at a moment’s notice the
moment you’re in need.”
Little Tatiana would be
proud. Ruhl strives and
pushes, never missing an
opportunity to be at her
best. Doing what she loves
for whom she loves in the
town she loves.
“It’s awesome,” Swisher
said. “I want to see all my
former students do as well
as they can, but especially
her. It’s great to see that
she’s been so successful. I
know she’s giving it everything she has, just like
she’s always done.”

A4 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

CYPRESS CREEK MIRROR | THE POTPOURRI |

Real Estate

legals@chron.com

For Sale | For Rent | Services

ORDINANCE NO. 2024-12

NORTHWEST

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF TOMBALL, TEXAS REPEALING AND REPLACING
CHAPTER 46, ARTICLE VII, WATER CONSERVATION, OF THE CITY OF TOMBALL CODE
OF ORDINANCES; PROVIDING FOR THE REPEAL OF CONFLICTING PROVISIONS; PROVIDING A SAVINGS CLAUSE; PROVIDING A PENALTY UP TO $2,000.00 FOR THE VIOLATION OF AND PROVISIONS FOR ENFORCEMENT OF THESE RESTRICTIONS, WITH
EACH DAY CONSTITUTING A NEW VIOLATION; PROVIDING SEVERABILITY; ADOPTING A WATER CONSERVATION AND DROUGHT CONTINGENCY PLAN; AND PROVIDING FOR PUBLICATION AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE.FIRST READING PASSED AND APPROVED ON MAY 6, 2024.

STAY where you are appreciated & Earn FREE Rent! LOW LOW RATES! Studio 1,2 & 3
Bedroom units Available w/ FLEXIBLE payment options! Studio units starting at $275.47
a week! Pets welcome. FREE utilities, courtesy patrol, and guest laundry.
Call: 281-920-1308

At Your Service

TO ADVERTISE: Call 281-378-1000
BUSINESS HOURS: 8am-5pm, Mon-Fri
Services

painting
Interior/Exterior Painting • Sheetrock
Textures • Power Washing
Like Us on Facebook
and Get $100 Off
Min. of $500

Insured,
References

Call Luis Fuentes

713-298-8393
www.smart-improvements.com

Employment
TO ADVERTISE:

recruitment@hcnonline.com

legals@chron.com
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
Sealed bids in duplicate, will be received by KLEINWOOD JOINT POWERS BOARD at
the offices of Baxter & Woodman, Inc., 11450 Compaq Center Dr. West, Suite 660,
Houston, Texas 77070, until WEDNESDAY, MAY 29, 2024 AT 2:00 P.M., at which time
all bids will be opened and publicly read for furnishing all material, equipment, labor
and supervision necessary for completion of the following:
SLUDGE THICKENER REHABILITATION
The major items of work include: Rehabilitation of thickener equipment by removal and
replacement of interior mechanism components with new components, including
drive unit, replacement of thickener control panel, and replacement of thickener
bridge and rails. Abrasive blast and recoating of sludge piping adjacent to thickener;
power-tool clean and recoating of sludge pumps and motors located adjacent to
thickener. Removal and replacement of existing manual ball valves with sewage air
release valves. Installation of associated electrical work.
Each bid proposal must be accompanied by a Cashier’s Check, Certified Check or a Bid
Bond from a reliable surety company drawn to the order of KLEINWOOD JOINT POWERS BOARD in the amount of five percent (5%) of the total bid. No bid proposal may be
withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days after the bid opening date. The OWNER reserves the right to reject any or all bids, or to accept the bid deemed most advantageous to it. The successful bidder will be required to provide a performance, payment,
and maintenance bond for the full amount of the contract.
A Pre-Bid Conference will be held at the offices of Baxter & Woodman, Inc., 11450
Compaq Center Dr. West, Suite 660, Houston, Texas 77070 onWEDNESDAY, MAY 15,
2024 AT 2:00 P.M. Attendance is not mandatory.
Specifications and Bid Documents are available online at https://www.civcastusa.com
or may be purchased at the offices of Baxter & Woodman, Inc., 11450 Compaq Center
Dr., Suite 660, Houston, Texas 77070, for a non-refundable fee of $50.00. Business
hours are Monday through Thursday from 7:30 A.M. until 5:00 P.M. and Fridays from
7:30 A.M. until 12:30 P.M. Telephone 281/350-7027.
ORDINANCE NO. 2024-08
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF TOMBALL, TEXAS, AMENDING CHAPTER 50 (ZONING) OF THE TOMBALL CODE OF ORDINANCES BY CHANGING THE ZONING DISTRICT
CLASSIFICATION OF APPROXIMATELY 0.87 ACRES OF LAND LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS
BEING A PORTION OF TOMBALL OUTLOT 286 FROM SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL –
20 (SF-20) TO COMMERCIAL (C). THE PROPERTY IS LOCATED WITHIN THE 900
BLOCK (NORTH SIDE) OF AGG ROAD, WITHIN THE CITY OF TOMBALL, HARRIS
COUNTY, TEXAS; PROVIDING FOR A PENALTY OF AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED
$2,000 FOR EACH DAY OF VIOLATION OF ANY PROVISION HEREOF, MAKING FINDINGS OF FACT; AND PROVIDING FOR OTHER RELATED MATTERS. SECOND READING
PASSED AND APPROVED ON MAY 6, 2024.

Texas Commission on environmenTal QualiTy

NOTICE TO BIDDERS-No. 2024-04
The City of Jersey Village is soliciting sealed proposals for Medical, Dental, Vision,
Basic Life/AD&D, Vol. Life/AD&D, and Long-Term Disability. Proposals must be
received by 2:00 PM CST on June 13, 2024 . Late proposals will not be accepted.
Proposal information may be obtained from HUB International,
alexander.hentze@hubinternational.com. Proposals shall be submitted electronically to:
alexander.hentze@hubinternational.com. The files must be clearly labeled –
“FULLY INSURED GROUP MEDICAL, DENTAL, VISION, LIFE AD&D, AND LONG-TERM
DISABILITY REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL – No. 2024-04.” The City of Jersey Village
reserves the right to reject any and all bids, in whole or in part, to waive any informality
in any bid, and to accept any bid, which, in its discretion, is in the best interest of the
City of Jersey Village. The City of Jersey Village is subject to the Texas Public
Information Act, a state law, which may require the City to make the information
provided in response to this request for applications available to the public upon
request. Therefore, responders are required to clearly mark any proprietary and/or
confidential information.
CITY OF JERSEY VILLAGE
OFFICIAL ADVERTISEMENT
Publication Dates: May 15, 2024, and May 22, 2024
s/Lorri Coody, City Secretary
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
Sealed bids in duplicate, will be received by CITY OF MAGNOLIA at Magnolia City Hall,
18111 Buddy Riley Blvd., Magnolia, Texas 77354, attention Mr. Tim Robertson, until
THURSDAY, MAY 30, 2024, AT 3:00 P.M ., at which time all bids will be opened and
publicly read for furnishing all material, equipment, labor and supervision necessary for
completion of the following:
AMARILLO DRIVE PAVEMENT REPLACEMENT
The major items of work include: Replacement of Amarillo Drive including removal of
existing surface and base, rework of subbase, installation of new base and new HMAC
surface; concrete driveway removal and replacement; widening and resurfacing of Smith
Road; storm sewer improvements and swale regrading; installation of a concrete pilot
channel; and site restoration.
Each bid proposal must be accompanied by a Bid Bond from a reliable surety company
drawn to the order of CITY OF MAGNOLIA in the amount of five percent (5%) of the total bid. No bid proposal may be withdrawn for a period of sixty (60) days after the bid
opening date. The OWNER reserves the right to reject any or all bids, or to accept the
bid deemed most advantageous to it. The successful bidder will be required to provide
a performance, payment, and maintenance bond for the full amount of the contract.
A Pre-Bid Conference will be held at Magnolia City Hall, 18111 Buddy Riley Rd.,
Magnolia, Texas 77354 on THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2024, AT 3:00 P.M . Attendance is not
mandatory.
Specifications and Bid Documents are available online at https://www.civcastusa.com
or may be purchased at the offices of Baxter & Woodman, Inc., 11450 Compaq Center
Dr., Suite 660, Houston, Texas 77070, for a non-refundable fee of $50.00. Business
hours are Monday through Thursday from 7:30 A.M. until 5:00 P.M. and Fridays from
7:30 A.M. until 12:30 P.M. Telephone 281/350-7027.
Region 4 Education Services Center is requesting proposals from qualified and experienced firms to provide Background Screening, Related Products and Services (RFP
No.24-07). In order to be considered, the Offeror must complete and submit a proposal
to Region 4 ESC in accordance with the solicitation documentation available at www.reg
ion4esc.ionwave.net.
PRE-PROPOSAL CONFERENCE: Tuesday, May 21st, 2024, 10:00 am local time via
Zoom.

BUSINESS FINANCE MANAGER

AG&P Americas, Inc.
Spring, TX
See Below To Apply

PROPOSAL DUE DATE: June 20th, 2024, BEFORE 2:00 PM LOCAL

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

AG&P Americas, Inc.; Business Finance Manager; Spring, TX will collaborate with Managing Director and the Director of Operations to
monitor, analyze and improve business performance of operations;
own the setup and maintenance of projects in accounting system in
accordance with contract terms and accounting policies, including
rate schedule and customer billing requirements during the project
cycle from project initiation to project closeout. Must have a Bachelor’s degree, or foreign equivalent, in Accounting, Finance, Business
Administration or closely related field and 3 years of experience as
an accountant or related occupation with a multinational company.
Must have 3 years of experience working with multinational teams
across country, cultural and organizational boundaries. Must have a
CPA license. Apply for the ‘Business Finance Manager’ position at
https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/
recruitment.html?cid=f5689c4a-4496-4d18-bfff67a77a177d1e&ccId=273943701225_32582&lang=en_US&selectedM
enuKey=CareerCenter.

DIRECTOR OF STRINGS

Ethos School of Music
Magnolia, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

Ethos School of Music is seeking a Director of Strings to join
our Magnolia, TX office to lead our string music instruments
programand develop the Viola and Violin program curriculum.
The Director will work individually with students, including
conducting Violaand Violin private lessons, and prepare students
for Royal Conservatory of Music exams, college auditions, recitals,
and other performance-related activities. They will also manage
the training of other teachers and will work with Ethos Chamber
Players as a coach and as a part of the ensemble. Registration as
a Suzuki Association of the Americas (SSA) teacher is required.
The ideal applicant will have a Ph.D in music. Qualified applicants
may send resumé to Khoren Ouzounian at khoren@ethos.school
with reference Director of Upper Strings in the subject line.

TECHNICAL

Cisco Systems, Inc.
Spring, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

Cisco Systems, Inc. is accepting resumes for multiple positions in
Spring, TX: Leader, Software Engineering (Ref#: SPR160B): Lead
a team in the design and development of company’s software products. Telecommuting permitted. Quality Engineer (Ref#: SPR123B):
Responsible for all aspects of quality assurance / test for projects
and IT functions. Telecommuting permitted. Software Engineer
(Ref#: SPR103B): Responsible for the definition, design, development, test, debugging, release, enhancement or maintenance of
software. Telecommuting permitted. Please email resumes including
position’s reference number in subject line to Cisco Systems, Inc. at
amsjobs@cisco.com. No phone calls please. Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship. EOE.www.cisco.com

TECHNOLOGY

HP Inc.
Spring, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

HP Inc. is accepting resumes for the position of Software
Applications Engineer in Spring, TX (Ref. #7594874).
Leverages recognized domain expertise, business acumen,
and experience to influence decisions of executive business
leadership, outsourced development partners, and industry
standards groups. Telecommuting permitted. Annual Salary:
$198,588.00/year to $228,588.00/year. Email resume to HP
USA Jobs, jobshpusa@hp.com. Resume must include Ref. #,
full name, email address & mailing address. No phone calls. Must
be legally authorized to work in U.S. without sponsorship. EOE.

TECHNOLOGY

HP Inc.
Spring, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

HP Inc. is accepting resumes for the position of Technical
Operations Manager in Spring, TX (Ref. #6862265). Identifies
research, tools, and analyses required to achieve objectives for large,
complex technology projects. Telecommuting permitted.
Annual Salary: $135,160.65/year to $165,160.65/year. Email
resume to HP USA Jobs, jobshpusa@hp.com. Resume must include
Ref. #, full name, email address & mailing address. No phone calls.
Must be legally authorized to work in U.S. without sponsorship. EOE.

TECHNOLOGY

HP Inc.
Spring, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

HP Inc. is accepting resumes for the position of Firmware Architect
in Spring, TX (Ref. #7229653). Lead the overall firmware design on
new and complex system architecture in commercial notebook and
desktop systems. Telecommuting permitted. Annual Salary:
$145,000.00/year to $175,000.00/year. Email resume to HP USA
Jobs, jobshpusa@hp.com. Resume must include Ref. #, full name,
email address & mailing address. No phone calls. Must be legally
authorized to work in U.S. without sponsorship. EOE.

PORSCHE AIR-COOLED SPECIALIST

indiGO Auto Group Holdings, LLC.
Houston, TX
See Below to Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Exp Req/See Below
Full-Time

indiGO Auto Group Holdings, LLC. is seeking a Porsche Air-Cooled
Specialist, in Houston, TX to perform a diagnosis, review vehicle history files, request parts & complete required authorized repairs of
the vehicles. Completion of technical training school or factory
apprentice program or foreign eqiv, plus 8 years of exp. Apply online
at: https://www.indigoautogroup.com/careers Porsche Air-Cooled
Specialist, no calls, principals only.

TIME. CONTACT: Crystal Wallace, CTSBS Procurement and Operations Specialist, (713)
744-8189 or cwallace@esc4.net

NOTICE OF RECEIPT OF APPLICATION AND
INTENT TO OBTAIN WATER QUALITY PERMIT AMENDMENT
PERMIT NO. WQ0014452001
APPLICATION. Undine Texas Environmental, LLC, 17681 Telge
Road, Cypress, Texas 77429, has applied to the Texas Commission on
Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to amend Texas Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (TPDES) Permit No. WQ0014452001 (EPA I.D. No.
TX0125776) to authorize an increase to the discharge of treated domestic
wastewater to a volume not to exceed a daily average flow of 340,000
gallons per day. The domestic wastewater treatment facility is located
at 1329 29th Street, near the community of Port Bolivar, in Galveston
County, Texas 77650. The discharge route is from the plant site directly
to Intracoastal Waterway Tidal. TCEQ received this application on June
28, 2023. The permit application will be available for viewing and copying
at David Glenn Hunt Memorial Library, 4015 Avenue Q, Galveston,
Texas prior to the date this notice is published in the newspaper. This link
to an electronic map of the site or facility's general location is provided as
a public courtesy and not part of the application or notice. For the exact
location, refer to the application.
https://gisweb.tceq.texas.gov/LocationMapper/?marker=-94.7475,
29.395&level=18
The application is subject to the goals and policies of the Texas Coastal
Management Program and must be consistent with the applicable
Coastal Management Program goals and policies.
ADDITIONAL NOTICE. TCEQ's Executive Director has determined
the application is administratively complete and will conduct a technical
review of the application. After technical review of the application is
complete, the Executive Director may prepare a draft permit and will
issue a preliminary decision on the application. Notice of the Application
and Preliminary Decision will be published and mailed to those who are
on the county-wide mailing list and to those who are on the mailing list
for this application. That notice will contain the deadline for submitting
public comments.
PUBLIC COMMENT / PUBLIC MEETING. You may submit public
comments or request a public meeting on this application. The purpose
of a public meeting is to provide the opportunity to submit comments or
to ask questions about the application. TCEQ will hold a public meeting
if the Executive Director determines that there is a significant degree of
public interest in the application or if requested by a local legislator. A
public meeting is not a contested case hearing.
OPPORTUNITY FOR A CONTESTED CASE HEARING. After the
deadline for submitting public comments, the Executive Director will
consider all timely comments and prepare a response to all relevant
and material, or significant public comments. Unless the application is
directly referred for a contested case hearing, the response to comments,
and the Executive Director's decision on the application, will be mailed
to everyone who submitted public comments and to those persons who
are on the mailing list for this application. If comments are received, the
mailing will also provide instructions for requesting reconsideration of
the Executive Director's decision and for requesting a contested case
hearing. A contested case hearing is a legal proceeding similar to a civil
trial in state district court.
TO REQUEST A CONTESTED CASE HEARING, YOU MUST
INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING ITEMS IN YOUR REQUEST: your
name, address, phone number; applicant's name and proposed permit
number; the location and distance of your property/activities relative to
the proposed facility; a specific description of how you would be adversely
affected by the facility in a way not common to the general public; a
list of all disputed issues of fact that you submit during the comment
period and, the statement “[I/we] request a contested case hearing.”
If the request for contested case hearing is filed on behalf of a group or
association, the request must designate the group's representative for
receiving future correspondence; identify by name and physical address
an individual member of the group who would be adversely affected by
the proposed facility or activity; provide the information discussed above
regarding the affected member's location and distance from the facility
or activity; explain how and why the member would be affected; and
explain how the interests the group seeks to protect are relevant to the
group's purpose.
Following the close of all applicable comment and request periods,
the Executive Director will forward the application and any requests
for reconsideration or for a contested case hearing to the TCEQ
Commissioners for their consideration at a scheduled Commission
meeting.
The Commission may only grant a request for a contested case hearing
on issues the requestor submitted in their timely comments that were not
subsequently withdrawn. If a hearing is granted, the subject of a hearing
will be limited to disputed issues of fact or mixed questions of fact and
law relating to relevant and material water quality concerns submitted
during the comment period.
MAILING LIST. If you submit public comments, a request for a
contested case hearing or a reconsideration of the Executive Director's
decision, you will be added to the mailing list for this specific application
to receive future public notices mailed by the Office of the Chief Clerk. In
addition, you may request to be placed on: (1) the permanent mailing list
for a specific applicant name and permit number; and/or (2) the mailing
list for a specific county. If you wish to be placed on the permanent and/
or the county mailing list, clearly specify which list(s) and send your
request to TCEQ Office of the Chief Clerk at the address below.
INFORMATION AVAILABLE ONLINE. For details about the status
of the application, visit the Commissioners' Integrated Database at
www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/cid. Search the database using the permit
number for this application, which is provided at the top of this notice.
AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION. Public comments and
requests must be submitted either electronically at https://www14.tceq.
texas.gov/epic/eComment/, or in writing to the Texas Commission
on Environmental Quality, Office of the Chief Clerk, MC-105, P.O. Box
13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. Please be aware that any contact
information you provide, including your name, phone number, email
address, and physical address will become part of the agency's public
record. For more information about this permit application or the
permitting process, please call the TCEQ Public Education Program,
Toll Free, at 1-800-687-4040 or visit their website at www.tceq.texas.
gov/goto/pep. Si desea información en Español, puede llamar al
1-800-687-4040.
Further information may also be obtained from Undine Texas
Environmental, LLC at the address stated above or by calling
Mr. Jeff Goebel at 713-574-5953.
Issuance Date: February 14, 2024

Application has been made with the Texas
Alcoholic Beverage Commission for a MIXED
BEVERAGE LICENSE (MB) by CMT CYPRESS
INDEPENDENT LIVING, LLC dba CMT CYPRESS
INDEPENDENT LIVING, LLC, to be located at
16302 SPRING CYPRESS ROAD, CYPRESS,
TEXAS UNITED STATES, HARRIS COUNTY 77429.
Officers of said corporation are BRIAN BOLLICH,
MANAGER
LEGAL NOTICE
Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic
Beverage Commission for a [BQ Wine and Malt
Beverage Retail Dealers Off Premise Permit] by Luisa
Obando, Della Casa, LLC dba DellaCasa Pasta
Market, to be located at 22525 Hufsmith-Kohrville
Road, Tomball, Harris, Texas. Officers of said
corporation Luisa Obando, CEO.
LEGAL NOTICE
Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic
Beverage Commission for a Wine and Malt Beverage
Retailer’s On-Premise Permit by Once Upon A
Cowboy LLC. dba [ONCE UPON A COWBOY], to be
located at 24935 Stuebner Airline Rd., Tomball,
Harris, Texas. Officers of said corporation are Sergio
Caro Del Castillo Hernandez, CEO, Bibiana De Anda
Leon, CFO.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE
Pursuant to Chapter 59 of the Texas Property Code, Cy-Fair Storage, located at
11650 Barker Cypress in Cypress, TX
77433 will hold an auction on
StorageTreasures.com to satisfy landlord’s
lien. Auction ends May 29, 2024 9am.
Units will be sold to highest bidder for
cash. Seller has the right to deny any bid
& to withdraw unit from sale. Units for
bid; P072 Mary Hall-Hogan, A012
Chrystal Singh, B110 & D350 Robert
Morlan, C110 Jessica Esteves, F201
Ladonna Fields, E458 Karla Perez, E519
Latoya Chatman, D328 Heidi Howland,
D316 Steven Ayala, F232 Ali Sanchez,
E495 John Davis, A059 Jennifer
Fontenot, D302 Jamari Palbusa, D370 Allen Lopez.
ORDINANCE NO. 2024-07
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF
TOMBALL, TEXAS, AMENDING CHAPTER
50 (ZONING) OF THE TOMBALL CODE OF
ORDINANCES BY CHANGING THE ZONING DISTRICT CLASSIFICATION OF APPROXIMATELY 31.12 ACRES OF LAND LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS BEING PORTIONS
OF THE J H EDWARDS SURVEY, ABSTRACT 20 AND THE C GOODRICH SURVEY, ABSTRACT 311 FROM AGRICULTURAL (AG) TO SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL - 6 (SF-6). THE PROPERTY IS LOCATED WITHIN THE 22100 BLOCK
(WEST SIDE) OF TOMBALL CEMETERY
ROAD, WITHIN THE CITY OF TOMBALL,
HARRIS COUNTY, TEXAS; PROVIDING
FOR A PENALTY OF AN AMOUNT NOT
TO EXCEED $2,000 FOR EACH DAY OF
VIOLATION OF ANY PROVISION HEREOF,
MAKING FINDINGS OF FACT; AND PROVIDING FOR OTHER RELATED MATTERS.
SECOND READING PASSED AND APPROVED ON MAY 6, 2024.
Towed vehicle final notice
2023 white GMC YUKON vin #
1GKS2JKL3MR274525
On 02/01/24 from 2715 forest trail by
Harris county sheriffs department to mills
rd auto storage at 9310 mills rd Houston
tx 77070 and its available for pick up
24/7 with one hour notice and proof of
ownership
The charges are $145.50 for towing
$22.85 a day for storage + tax $22.85 impound + tax and $50.00 notification this
storage facility except payments by cash
check credit card debit card and Zelle

The Region 4 Education
Service Center (ESC),
Houston, TX is requesting
proposals from qualified and
experienced firms to provide
Oracle Products and Services
(RFP No. 24-02). In order to be
considered, the Offeror must
complete Ion Wave
Technologies, Inc. registration
and submit a proposal to Region
4 ESC in accordance with the
solicitation link
https://region4esc.ionwave.net/
this link is also available
at www.esc4.net or https://www.
omniapartners.com/publicsector
/solicitations
VIRTUAL PRE-PROPOSAL
CONFERENCE: Thursday,
May 9, 2024, 10:00 am CST.
PROPOSAL DUE DATE:
June 6, 2024, BEFORE 2:00
PM CENTRAL TIME.
The Region 4 Education
Service Center (ESC),
Houston, TX is requesting
proposals from qualified and
experienced firms to provide
Software Solutions and
Services (RFP No. 24-03).
In order to be considered,
the Offeror must complete Ion
Wave Technologies, Inc.
registration and submit
a proposal to Region 4 ESC in
accordance with the solicitation
link
https://region4esc.ionwave.net/
this link is also available
at www.esc4.net or https://www.
omniapartners.com/publicsector
/solicitations
VIRTUAL PRE-PROPOSAL
CONFERENCE: Thursday,
May 9, 2024, 11:00 am CST.
PROPOSAL DUE DATE:
June 6, 2024, BEFORE 2:00
PM CENTRAL TIME.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A5

CYPRESS CREEK MIRROR | THE POTPOURRI |

HEALTH

Intermittent fasting has its risks
Q: I read a recent headline that said people who
fast intermittently have an
increased risk of heart disease. Is there
merit to this
story?
A: Intermittent fasting is
an increasingly
common
weight-loss
Dr. Keith
strategy. The
Roach
two most comTO YOU R
mon approachG O OD
H E ALT H
es of intermittent fasting are
alternate-day fasting (eating
nothing one day, then whatever you want the next) and
time-restricted feeding (eating
at certain times in the day,
usually in an eight-hour time
frame).
The published data on the
benefits of these diets show
short-term weight loss (i.e., 12
weeks), but no long-term
weight loss (one year), compared to standard dietary
advice.
There is evidence of potential harm from intermittent
fasting. Studies have shown an
increased risk of eating disorders (particularly binge
eating). One study showed
that disordered eating worsened in those assigned to an
intermittent fasting schedule.
However, other studies do not
show this.
The concern for disordered
eating is highest among younger and female populations,
who are most at risk for eating
disorders, and I advise against
intermittent fasting for a person with a history of an eating
disorder.
The study you read about
was presented as an abstract
in the March meeting of the
American Heart Association;
it is not yet published or peerreviewed. But it did show that
people who report an intermittent-fasting diet (specifically those who ate over an eighthour time frame) were at a
higher risk for death from
heart disease than those who
ate over a 12-16 hour time
frame.
However, this wasn’t a controlled study, and it is likely
that people who chose a timerestricted eating pattern already had issues that put
them at a higher risk for heart

Getty Images

The idea behind intermittent fasting is that brief periods of little to no caloric intake will help
you lose weight, influence your metabolism, help your circadian biology (sleep cycles) and
enhance the gut microbiome.

disease.
Still, given the absence of
long-term benefits, I don’t
generally recommend a timerestricted diet or intermittent
fasting to my patients.
My colleagues in weight
medicine consider intermittent
fasting to be an option that
helps a subset of people. There
are some people who do benefit from this type of diet, and
as long as they are eating well
and are being monitored by
their physician, they should
continue to follow their diet if
it is working for them.
Q: As a person who has
had vocal cord paralysis
after a viral infection, I was
fortunate not to need many
of the outlined modes of
care. However, there was
one additional therapy that
was utilized within my plan
of care — speech therapy. It
took a while, but it worked
well.
I suppose I may have
some lingering weakness.
When I experience a new
viral upper respiratory
infection, I often experi-

ence prolonged hoarseness.
So, I pull out my exercise
sheet once again, practice
the techniques and experience the same great results.
A: I thank the reader for
writing, as I should have
recommended voice therapy
for people with vocal cord
paralysis, as well as those
with other voice issues.
Some ear, nose and throat
physicians, speech-language
pathologists, respiratory therapists and voice coaches specialize in voice therapy.
Q: I read last year that
nearly 20 million Americans were living with long
COVID, but I understand
that the number is much
higher now. Can you explain exactly what long
COVID is and how it is
treated?
A: Persistent symptoms
after an infection are not
unique to COVID. Many people will have cough or asthma
exacerbations for weeks or
even months after a bad flu
infection.
Likewise, many people

have symptoms (relating to
many different body systems)
after recovering from COVID.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the
World Health Organization
differ on the amount of time
after an infection that has to
pass for it to be considered
“long COVID” — four weeks
and three months, respectively.
The most common physical
symptoms of long COVID are
fatigue, shortness of breath
and muscle aches. In one
study of people who survived
the initial wave of COVID,
45% had at least one persistent physical symptom.
The most common and
persistent neurological/psychological symptoms are
anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder and
cognition problems (“brain
fog”). Up to 25% of COVID
survivors had one of these
symptoms after their physical
recovery. This was higher
than other respiratory viruses, such as influenza.
For those who required a
stay in the intensive care unit,

over 75% had physical, psychological or cognitive symptoms after their discharge.
These survivors are at the
highest risk for prolonged and
severe long-COVID symptoms.
There are many hypotheses
for the underlying cause of
long-COVID symptoms, and
although there is some evidence, it’s not clear whether
there is one single cause or
whether multiple mechanisms
are possible.
I wish I could get better
results from the available
treatments. Essentially, we
treat each patient’s concerns
the same way we would if the
person hadn’t had COVID.
Emphasis on sleep, nutrition
and exercise are critical. But
we should still recognize that
many people with long COVID have symptoms that are
very similar to myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome. As such,
exercise should not be overdone, since this can worsen
post-exertional symptoms.
Q: Do MRI tests, especially of the head, contribute to hearing loss even
when earplugs are used?
A: MRI scans are very loud,
and exposure to loud noises
can cause hearing loss. However, it’s the prolonged and
repeated exposure to loud
noises that is most likely to
cause hearing damage, so MRI
scans are not likely to be a
problem. Earplugs are still a
good idea, though.
There is nothing about the
strong magnetic field in an
MRI machine that adversely
affects hearing. They just
make a lot of noise due to the
moving electrical coils. Some
machines can cause levels up
to 110 decibels — as loud as a
rock concert.
New MRI technology is
coming that will dramatically
reduce the amount of noise
made during a scan.
Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable to answer individual letters,
but will incorporate them in the
column whenever possible. Readers may email questions to
ToYourGoodHealth
@med.cornell.edu or send mail
to 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando,
FL 32803.

NAC supplement helped reader stop nail biting
JOE AND TERESA
GRAEDON
PE OPLE ’S PHA RMACY

Q: I’ve been a nail-biter
since I was a kid. The only
way I had nice nails was to
spend a fortune at a salon.
When I learned that NAC
(N-acetylcysteine) is known
to help with BFRBs, bodyfocused repetitive behaviors,
such as nail biting, hair pulling or skin picking, I decided
to try it. After a few months
of taking this supplement, I
had beautiful, natural fingernails for the first time in my
entire life. A most welcome
extra benefit of NAC for me
is that I have absolutely no
desire for alcohol and my

appetite and craving for
unhealthy foods are just
gone.
My primary care doc is
fairly progressive, but he
knew nothing about NAC
other than its use in the
emergency room to reverse
acetaminophen overdose. He
gave me the stamp of approval after seeing the changes in
me. I take several supplements, but this one has had
the most profound and positive change in my overall
health.
A: Thank you so much for a
fascinating testimonial. As your
doctor told you, NAC is “the
mainstay of therapy for acetaminophen toxicity” (StatPearls, Feb. 19, 2023). The Food
and Drug Administration approved it for this indication in
1985.
There is far less research on
its use to control body-focused
repetitive behaviors with a
compulsive component, such as

nail biting or hair pulling. A
review of the research noted
that only a few clinical trials of
NAC for this purpose have been
conducted (International Journal of Environmental Research
and Public Health, May 2022).
We haven’t seen any studies
showing that NAC can reduce
the urge for alcohol or junk
food. However, a small study in
Indonesia demonstrated that it
helped men stop smoking (Cureus, Feb. 16, 2024).
NAC has a good safety profile. It may cause nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, and occasionally, people develop reactions
such as a rash or flushing.
Headache, hives or fever may
occur at the high doses used to
treat acetaminophen toxicity
(American Family Physician,
Aug. 1, 2009).
Q: My 16-year-old daughter
had terrible acne. She gave
up sugar, dairy and gluten,
and her acne disappeared

within six weeks. She has
beautiful skin now.
A: It sounds like your daughter found a great solution. Studies show that avoiding milk and
other dairy products can be
helpful for those with acne
(Nutrients, Oct. 17, 2023). It also
makes sense to avoid sugarsweetened beverages (European
Journal of Endocrinology, Jan. 3,
2024).
Others who would like to
learn more about this approach
can find further details along
with information on medications in our “eGuide to Acne
Solutions.” This online resource
is located under the Health
eGuides tab at Peoples
Pharmacy.com.
Q: I have a question about
the amount of elemental zinc
that would be safe to take
per day. My supplement has
7 milligrams of elemental
zinc per tablet. When I
looked it up, the American

Academy of Family Physicians says that the tolerable
upper limit of elemental zinc
per day is 40 milligrams.
How much zinc could I take
without interfering with
copper?
A: The Recommended Dietary Allowance for Adults is 8
milligrams for women and 11
milligrams for men. Your question is sophisticated. Excess
zinc intake, which might occur
at doses of 50 milligrams/day
for weeks, can interfere with
copper absorption and reduce
immune function. The Food
and Nutrition Board (FNB) at
the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine has established 40 milligrams daily as the tolerable
upper limit of zinc for adults.
Write to Joe and Teresa Graedon
in care of King Features, 628
Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL
32803, or email them via their
website: PeoplesPharmacy.com.

A6 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

A

CYPRESS CREEK MIRROR | THE POTPOURRI |

CYPRESS CREEK MIRROR | THE POTPOURRI |

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A7

A8 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

CYPRESS CREEK MIRROR | THE POTPOURRI |

!

Look
Lookfor
foryour
yourgrocery
grocerycoupons
couponsinside!
inside!
ADVICE: Medicare enrollment explained. A2
Look for grocery
coupons inside
TOMBALL | MAGNOLIA
YOURTOMBALLNEWS.COM

•

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

• VOL. 48, NO. 20

•

50 CENTS

MONTHS

NE

Look
Lookfor
foryour
yourgrocery
grocerycoupons
couponsinside!
inside!
ADVICE: Medicare enrollment explained. A2

sugarland
YOURFORTBENDNEWS.COM

•

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

• VOL. 31, NO. 39

•

50 CENTS

AN EDITION OF

Melissa Phillip/Staff file photo

Sugar Land Town Center is a gathering place for many in the Fort Bend County region.

ARE YOU
MIDDLE CLASS?
Sugar Land ranks among the highest
middle-income ranges in the country
By Erica Grieder
STA FF WRIT E R

While Houston still offers working families a relatively low cost of
living, you’ll need to earn a nearly
six-figure salary to make it into the
“middle class” in The Woodlands or
Sugar Land.
That’s according to a new analysis from SmartAsset, a personal finance website that used median
household income to figure out
what kind of salary counts as middle-income in various cities and
states. The Pew Research Center defines “middle-income” as ranging
from two-thirds to double a region’s
median income. The median, as you
may recall from math class, is the

FORT BEND
INSIDER
Reporter Juhi Varma
delivers top stories from your
neighborhood to your inbox twice
a week - education, real estate,
new businesses and more.
Scan the QR code to sign up for
free.

Kirk Sides/Staff file photo

A Porsche dealer is seen in affluent Sugar Land, where “middle
income” means a minimum of $88,502.

HEALTH

INTERMITTENT
FASTING
The idea behind intermittent
fasting is that brief periods of
little to no caloric intake will
help you lose weight.
PAGE A4

midpoint of any data set.
The Woodlands, in Montgomery
County, has the 10th highest middleincome range in the country, with a
median household income of
$137,335, meaning a household
needs to bring in at least $91,000 to
be considered middle-income in the
Montgomery County township.
Sugar Land, in Fort Bend County, is
close behind, ranking 13th with a
median household income of
$132,766. There, households earning
between $88,502 and $265,532 are
considered middle-income.
By comparison, the median
household income in Houston is
about $60,000 a year, meaning that
households
earning
$40,000Middle continues on A3

A2 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

SUGAR LAND SUN | KATY RANCHER |

ADVICE
HOME IMPROVEMENT

Zinsser hits the spot for antique furniture
Many of my
customers have
furniture from
their parents or
relatives that
mean so much
Trudy
to them. It
Chuoke
might have been
Mom’s dressing
H AP PY
H A N DYMA N
table, or Dad’s
bedside table
and just looking at them brings
back many memories. I have a
few things that I have kept
from my late husband, and I
just like having them in the
house...a sweet remembrance
of the time we had together.
But sometimes the furniture
pieces that you get from your
family have been in storage. I
have this friend who collected
from her mom’s estate. The
furniture and clothing had
been stored in a barn. A very

stinky barn. And the furniture
had adsorbed all the odor.
She told me about all the
different things she tried before
coming to me. She tried airing
it out, she put charcoal in the
drawers, she cleaned it with a
degreaser, but the furniture
smelled so bad she couldn’t
keep it in the house. So she
asked me for help.
Zinsser makes great primers.
Primers for sheetrock that is
crumbling, primers for peeling
paint and a primer for odor.
Older furniture is made so well,
all wood no composite or laminates and that old wood can be
a sponge absorbing odors.
Odor Killing Primer can be
painted on a surface, and it will
seal in the offensive smell. My
friend sealed all the drawers
and the inside of the drawer.
Then she wanted to put a new

finish on the outside of the
furniture, and I suggested Varathane. Her pieces now made
their way into the house.
Another way to use Zinsser
is on kitchen cabinets. If you
had smoke damage from a
kitchen fire and nothing gets
rid of the odor in the cabinets.
You don’t have to have your
whole kitchen torn down. Try
Zinsser first. I used it on my
kitchen cabinets because the
previous owner was a smoker.
That smoke permeated into the
cabinets and when I would
leave for a trip and come backthe whole house had this lingering smell like someone had
been smoking inside my house.
When I finally figured out
what was causing the odor…..I
used Zinsser. All I had to do
was seal the inside of all the
cabinets, and there was no

lingering odor when I returned
from the trip. And this primer
goes on milky so you can see
where you have applied the
primer and then dries clear.

Now to some great
email…..

Question: After listening
to your Saturday afternoon
show on WOAI, I have decided to remove the silicone
caulk in my shower. So how
can I remove the caulk and
what caulk would you suggest that I replace for the
silicone?
Answer: Contractor’s DeSolv-It is great for removing
silicone caulk. First, use a single edged razor blade to cut the
caulk right down the middlw
and along each side. Then
spray the caulk with De-Solv-It.
Spray every 15 minutes for an

hour. Then re-caulk with Sashco Sealant Clean Seal. It has a
7-year guarantee to resist mildew. Allow 48 hours to cure.
Question: I have slippery
steps on a small outdoor
deck. I know that you paint
them with a texture paint,
but I love the color of the
deck and I don’t want to
change that – so is there
something else that is not an
abrasive tread.
Answer: Absolutely yes!
There is a tread that is soft to
the touch but will provide traction and a safe step. They are
called Handi Treads. I like
them because they are translucent and don’t stand out on the
deck. You can use Handi
Treads on wet surfaces also like
in the tub and shower.
www.happyhandyman.com

HEALTH CARE

Medicare enrollment process explained
Toni: I need
to make the
right Medicare
decision because I turn 65
in August and
have
not had a
Toni
health plan for
King
2 years. I do
M E D ICA RE
not know
ADV IC E
where to start
or what to do.
My friends are advising me if
I do not sign up for Medicare
when I turn 65, I will be making a major Medicare mistake.
Can you please simplify the
Medicare enrollment process?
Thanks, Toni
Cynthia, Alvin

Hi Cynthia: Medicare is exploding with an American turning 65 every 8 seconds.
The Medicare basics America
needs to know are:

1) Remember to enroll at the

right time:

a) Turning 65 and receiving
your Social Security check, your
“Welcome to Medicare” kit will
be mailed to you with your
Medicare card 90 days before
you turn 65.
b) Turning 65 and NOT receiving your Social Security check and
not working full time with true
employer group health insurance from either you or your
spouse’s work, you may want to
enroll in Medicare Parts A and
B online via www.ssa.gov.
c) Turning 65, working full-time
with “true” employer group health
insurance whether through your
or your spouse’s employer benefits may want to delay enrolling
in Medicare until you or your
spouse retire or are laid off.

2) Medicare is not free

Medicare covers a lot and
there is a cost associated with
Medicare Parts A and B. The

premium for Part A is at no cost
if you worked 10 years or 40
quarters and paid Medicare
taxes. Medicare Part B has a
premium which is means-tested
depending on your annual income. In 2024, most Medicare
beneficiaries pay $174.70 each
month for their Part B premium. Medicare Part A (hospital)
deductible for 2024 is $1,632, not
once a year but is every 60 days
or 6 times a year. The 2024
Medicare Part B deductible is
$240 once a year with Medicare
paying 80% of the Medicareapproved amount and you paying the remaining 20%.

3) Learn the different
Medicare Parts (A, B, C and
D)
Original Medicare is Medicare Parts A and B which covers hospital, medical and provider expenses. Medicare Part
C, known as Medicare Ad-

vantage plan, is another way of
receiving your Medicare benefits. Part D is the Medicare
Prescription Drug plan that can
be a stand-alone plan with Original Medicare and a Medicare
Supplement, or with a Medicare
Advantage plan that includes a
prescription drug plan.

4) “Original” Medicare

Original Medicare Parts A
and B have no network. Medicare Part A covers in-patient
hospital, skilled nursing/rehab
facility, home health and hospice care. Medicare Part B covers doctor services whether at
the office or surgical care, outpatient surgery/services, lab/Xrays, MRIs, durable medical
equipment, and preventative
services.

5) Medicare Advantage Plan
(MAPD)
You must be enrolled in Orig-

inal Medicare to qualify for a
Medicare Advantage Plan and
can select various Medicare
Advantage plans (Medicare Part
C) such as an HMO or PPO
plans that are offered by private
insurance companies. A MAPD
plan has an insurance provider
network with health care professionals or facilities that provide lower in-network rates.
You do not use your Medicare
(red, white, and blue) card because Medicare will pay the
MAPD plan for your care. You
will have co-pays, deductibles
and maximum out-of-pocket
costs associated with your
medical care.
Confused about Medicare Workshop in Katy is “Live” Thursday,
May 23 at 6 p.m. at Spring Creek
BBQ-Katy, 21000 Katy Frwy,
Katy, TX. 77449. RSVP:832/5198664 or visit www.tonisays.com.
Dinner not included.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A3

SUGAR LAND SUN | KATY RANCHER |

Buc-ee’s touted for pay
Gas station chains starting salary ranks fifth among U.S. retailers
By Richard Webner
CON T R IB U T OR

Buc-ee’s comes in first
place worldwide for the
size of its convenience
stores and length of its car
washes. It also ranks high
for employee salaries, according to a recent study.
The Texas-based gas
station chain ranks fifth
among U.S. retailers for
entry-level salaries with
an average starting wage
of $18.18 an hour, according to the study by Business Insider, which is
based on data provided by
the workplace review site
Glassdoor.
The outdoor apparel
company Patagonia came
in first with an average
wage of $21.88, followed by
recreational equipment
retailer REI with $18.88.
Costco and IKEA came in
third and fourth, with
wages of $18.57 and $18.50,
respectively.
The yoga apparel company Lululemon ranked
sixth with an average
wage of $18, according to
the study.
At a starting wage of
$18.18, a full-time worker
at Buc-ee’s would earn
gross pay of about $37,800.
That’s well below the me-

MIDDLE
From page A1
$120,000 a year are middle
income.
Several California cities — Sunnyvale, Fremont and San Mateo —
rank highest in the nation
in terms of middle-income ranges, SmartAsset
notes. The Woodlands is
one of two Texas cities in
the top 10: Frisco, a suburb of Dallas, has the 8th
highest median income in
the nation, at $145,914.

Barry L. Harrell/Express-News Staff
Michael Miller/San Antonio Express-News

Shoppers browse the selection during at Buc-ee’s in Luling.

An employee dressed as the Buc-ee’s beaver mascot
greets customers at the Buc-ee’s store in New
Braunfels on Saturday, March 16, 2024.

dian annual salary in Texas, which was was $68,744
in 2023, according to data
from the Bureau of Labor
Statistics.
In signs posted at its
stores, Buc-ee’s has advertised starting wages of $16
an hour for cashiers, grocery stockers and other
entry-level employees; $19

for food service and car
wash workers; and between $23 and $31 for department managers.
And in recent years,
Buc-ee’s has often attracted attention for its
high wages compared
with some other workplaces. General managers
at its convenience stores

can
make
between
$150,000 and $225,000, for
example.
Retail wages have generally been increasing in
recent years as they compete to attract employees
in a tight labor market.
Last year, for example,
Walmart boosted its starting wages to $14 an hour

from $12 an hour. Now, according to ZipRecruiter,
the average wage for Walmart employees in Texas
at the end of April was
$22.37 an hour. That
topped the average wage
at Buc-ee’s, the hiring
website said, where the
average this month is
$21.05.

Lake
Jackson-based
Buc-ee’s was born and
grew in Texas but in recent years has expanded
into other states. It now
has 49 locations, including stores in Alabama,
Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Missouri,
South Carolina and Tennessee.

In the United States,
the middle class is somewhat amorphous and often defined by occupation, lifestyle or educational attainment as much
as income or wealth. Sugar Land stands out for its
education level, with twothirds of residents having
a bachelor’s degree or
higher.
And many middle-income Americans are feeling financially squeezed,
notes Jaclyn DeJohn,
managing editor at SmartAsset and a certified fi-

nancial planner. That’s
particularly true for those
living in areas with a high
cost of living: In the three
California cities that top
the list in terms of median
household incomes, for
example, the cost of living
was about 70% higher
than the national average
in 2023.
“In many areas, housing is going to be the main
point of contention when
it comes to costs,” she
said. “Houston has an advantage in that housing is
roughly 18% less expen-

sive than average — and
relatively cheap even
compared to other costs
in Houston, like groceries
and utilities.”
Relatively
affluent
communities, such as
Sugar Land and The
Woodlands, might not offer quite the same cost advantages as Houston itself; the median home
price in The Woodlands is
well north of the half-million dollar mark. Still,
such a price might seem
like a steal to a homebuyer from California or

New York, and so the region’s relative affordability helps explain its ongoing population growth.
As DeJohn noted, anyone trying to balance a
household budget has to
consider two main factors: income and expenses — and adjusting the latter may be easier, even
though a tight labor market has helped push wages up: “While wages generally increase over time,
they may not keep up
with certain costs,” she
said.

“Oftentimes, switching
jobs may be the best way
to get a larger increase in
salary, but this is not always a reasonable plan to
rely on,” she continued.
“Finding ways to stretch
your budget by cutting
costs often becomes the
quickest way to relief.
This might mean cutting
out non-necessities, finding ways to share certain
expenses, or even moving
to less-expensive areas to
take advantage of lower
costs and taxes, when
possible.”

A4 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

SUGAR LAND SUN | KATY RANCHER |

HEALTH

Intermittent fasting has its risks
Q: I read a recent headline
that said people who fast
intermittently have an increased risk of heart disease.
Is there merit
to this story?
A: Intermittent fasting is an
increasingly
common weightloss strategy. The
two most comDr. Keith
mon approaches
Roach
of intermittent
TO YOU R
fasting are alG O OD
H E ALT H
ternate-day
fasting (eating
nothing one day, then whatever
you want the next) and timerestricted feeding (eating at certain times in the day, usually in
an eight-hour time frame).
The published data on the
benefits of these diets show
short-term weight loss (i.e., 12
weeks), but no long-term weight
loss (one year), compared to
standard dietary advice.
There is evidence of potential
harm from intermittent fasting.
Studies have shown an increased
risk of eating disorders (particularly binge eating). One study
showed that disordered eating
worsened in those assigned to an
intermittent fasting schedule.
However, other studies do not
show this.
The concern for disordered
eating is highest among younger
and female populations, who are
most at risk for eating disorders,
and I advise against intermittent
fasting for a person with a history of an eating disorder.
The study you read about was
presented as an abstract in the
March meeting of the American
Heart Association; it is not yet
published or peer-reviewed. But
it did show that people who
report an intermittent-fasting
diet (specifically those who ate
over an eight-hour time frame)
were at a higher risk for death
from heart disease than those
who ate over a 12-16 hour time
frame.
However, this wasn’t a controlled study, and it is likely that
people who chose a time-restricted eating pattern already
had issues that put them at a
higher risk for heart disease.
Still, given the absence of
long-term benefits, I don’t generally recommend a time-restricted diet or intermittent fasting to
my patients.
My colleagues in weight medicine consider intermittent fasting
to be an option that helps a subset of people. There are some
people who do benefit from this
type of diet, and as long as they

Getty Images

The idea behind intermittent fasting is that brief periods of little to no caloric intake will help you lose weight, influence your
metabolism, help your circadian biology (sleep cycles) and enhance the gut microbiome.

are eating well and are being
monitored by their physician,
they should continue to follow
their diet if it is working for
them.
Q: As a person who has had
vocal cord paralysis after a
viral infection, I was fortunate not to need many of the
outlined modes of care. However, there was one additional
therapy that was utilized
within my plan of care —
speech therapy. It took a
while, but it worked well.
I suppose I may have some
lingering weakness. When I
experience a new viral upper
respiratory infection, I often
experience prolonged hoarseness. So, I pull out my exercise sheet once again, practice
the techniques and experience the same great results.
A: I thank the reader for
writing, as I should have recommended voice therapy for people
with vocal cord paralysis, as well
as those with other voice issues.
Some ear, nose and throat
physicians, speech-language
pathologists, respiratory therapists and voice coaches specialize in voice therapy.
Q: I read last year that

nearly 20 million Americans
were living with long COVID,
but I understand that the
number is much higher now.
Can you explain exactly what
long COVID is and how it is
treated?
A: Persistent symptoms after
an infection are not unique to
COVID. Many people will have
cough or asthma exacerbations
for weeks or even months after
a bad flu infection.
Likewise, many people have
symptoms (relating to many
different body systems) after
recovering from COVID. The
Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention and the World
Health Organization differ on
the amount of time after an
infection that has to pass for it
to be considered “long COVID”
— four weeks and three
months, respectively.
The most common physical
symptoms of long COVID are
fatigue, shortness of breath and
muscle aches. In one study of
people who survived the initial
wave of COVID, 45% had at
least one persistent physical
symptom.
The most common and persistent neurological/psychological symptoms are anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress

disorder and cognition problems (“brain fog”). Up to 25% of
COVID survivors had one of
these symptoms after their
physical recovery. This was
higher than other respiratory
viruses, such as influenza.
For those who required a stay
in the intensive care unit, over
75% had physical, psychological
or cognitive symptoms after
their discharge. These survivors
are at the highest risk for prolonged and severe long-COVID
symptoms.
There are many hypotheses
for the underlying cause of
long-COVID symptoms, and
although there is some evidence, it’s not clear whether
there is one single cause or
whether multiple mechanisms
are possible.
I wish I could get better results from the available treatments. Essentially, we treat each
patient’s concerns the same way
we would if the person hadn’t
had COVID. Emphasis on sleep,
nutrition and exercise are critical. But we should still recognize that many people with long
COVID have symptoms that are
very similar to myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome. As such, exercise should
not be overdone, since this can

worsen post-exertional symptoms.
Q: Do MRI tests, especially
of the head, contribute to
hearing loss even when earplugs are used?
A: MRI scans are very loud,
and exposure to loud noises can
cause hearing loss. However, it’s
the prolonged and repeated
exposure to loud noises that is
most likely to cause hearing
damage, so MRI scans are not
likely to be a problem. Earplugs
are still a good idea, though.
There is nothing about the
strong magnetic field in an MRI
machine that adversely affects
hearing. They just make a lot of
noise due to the moving electrical coils. Some machines can
cause levels up to 110 decibels —
as loud as a rock concert.
New MRI technology is coming that will dramatically reduce
the amount of noise made during a scan.
Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable
to answer individual letters, but
will incorporate them in the column
whenever possible. Readers may
email questions to ToYourGood
Health@med.cornell.edu or send
mail to 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803.

NAC supplement helped reader stop nail biting
JOE AND TERESA
GRAEDON
P E OPLE ’S PHA RMAC Y

Q: I’ve been a nailbiter since I was a kid.
The only way I had

nice nails was to spend
a fortune at a salon.
When I learned that
NAC (N-acetylcysteine) is known to help
with BFRBs, bodyfocused repetitive
behaviors, such as nail
biting, hair pulling or
skin picking, I decided
to try it. After a few
months of taking this
supplement, I had
beautiful, natural fin-

gernails for the first
time in my entire life.
A most welcome extra
benefit of NAC for me
is that I have absolutely no desire for alcohol and my appetite
and craving for unhealthy foods are just
gone.
My primary care doc
is fairly progressive,
but he knew nothing
about NAC other than

its use in the emergency room to reverse
acetaminophen overdose. He gave me the
stamp of approval
after seeing the changes in me. I take several
supplements, but this
one has had the most
profound and positive
change in my overall
health.
A: Thank you so
much for a fascinating
testimonial. As your
doctor told you, NAC is
“the mainstay of therapy
for acetaminophen toxicity” (StatPearls, Feb. 19,
2023). The Food and
Drug Administration
approved it for this indication in 1985.
There is far less research on its use to control body-focused repetitive behaviors with a
compulsive component,
such as nail biting or
hair pulling. A review of
the research noted that
only a few clinical trials
of NAC for this purpose
have been conducted
(International Journal of
Environmental Research
and Public Health, May
2022).
We haven’t seen any
studies showing that
NAC can reduce the urge
for alcohol or junk food.
However, a small study
in Indonesia demonstrated that it helped
men stop smoking (Cureus, Feb. 16, 2024).
NAC has a good safety

profile. It may cause
nausea, vomiting or
diarrhea, and occasionally, people develop reactions such as a rash or
flushing. Headache,
hives or fever may occur
at the high doses used to
treat acetaminophen
toxicity (American Family Physician, Aug. 1,
2009).
Q: My 16-year-old
daughter had terrible
acne. She gave up sugar, dairy and gluten,
and her acne disappeared within six
weeks. She has beautiful skin now.
A: It sounds like your
daughter found a great
solution. Studies show
that avoiding milk and
other dairy products can
be helpful for those with
acne (Nutrients, Oct. 17,
2023). It also makes
sense to avoid sugarsweetened beverages
(European Journal of
Endocrinology, Jan. 3,
2024).
Others who would
like to learn more about
this approach can find
further details along
with information on
medications in our
“eGuide to Acne Solutions.” This online resource is located under
the Health eGuides tab
at Peoples
Pharmacy.com.
Q: I have a question

about the amount of
elemental zinc that
would be safe to take
per day. My supplement has 7 milligrams
of elemental zinc per
tablet. When I looked
it up, the American
Academy of Family
Physicians says that
the tolerable upper
limit of elemental zinc
per day is 40 milligrams. How much zinc
could I take without
interfering with copper?
A: The Recommended
Dietary Allowance for
Adults is 8 milligrams
for women and 11 milligrams for men. Your
question is sophisticated. Excess zinc intake,
which might occur at
doses of 50 milligrams/
day for weeks, can interfere with copper absorption and reduce
immune function. The
Food and Nutrition
Board (FNB) at the National Academies of
Sciences, Engineering,
and Medicine has established 40 milligrams
daily as the tolerable
upper limit of zinc for
adults.
Write to Joe and Teresa
Graedon in care of King
Features, 628 Virginia
Drive, Orlando, FL 32803,
or email them via their
website: Peoples
Pharmacy.com.

SUGAR LAND SUN | KATY RANCHER |

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A5

A6 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

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C4030412 2019 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER PYV8594 (TX) JA4AD3A30KZ049694
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX FRWY
C4030413 2015 CHEVROLET CRUZE
FWC4376 (TX) 1G1PC5SB6F7188551 TWD
FRM 11358 EASTEX FRWY
Correction for ad 34330771.
THE FOLLOWING VEHICLES ARE BEING
STORED AT US 69 ENTERPRISE 11356
Eastex Fwy, Houston, TX 77093 IF YOU
HAVE ANY INTEREST PLEASE CALL 281227-1550.
NEWSPAPER NOTICE
C4040301 2004 MOTORCYCLE NO
PLATE (TX) LW0XCGLCX40023035 TWD
FRM 8012 BELTWAY 8 C4040362 2024
TOYOTA COROLLA TZR1534 (TX)
5YFS4MCE2RP186588 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX FRWY C4040363 2011 TOYOTA
CAMRY DMN1461 (TX)
2T1BU4EE3BC616325 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX C4040388 2014 CHEVROLET
EQUINOX TWZ7787 (TX)
1GNALBEK4EZ135025 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX FRWY C4040398 2013 HONDA
ACCORD TKY2935 (TX)
1HGCT1B81DA010955 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX C4040404 2014 JEEP CHEROKEE TCC2862 (TX) 1C4PJLDXEW118490
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX C4040430 2015
FORD FOCUS RKL1130 (TX)
1FADP3F22FL244947 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX
FINAL NEWSPAPER NOTICE
C40400445 2019 KIA OPTIMA LMF6899
(TX) 5XXGT4L38KG285843 TWD FRM
11358 EASTEX C4040062 2014 NISSAN
SENTRA MMT4448 (TX)
3N1AB7APEY252245 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX C4040063 2015 NISSAN ALTIMA NPN6927 (TX) 1N4AL3AP0FN403132
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX C4040065
2006 PONTIAC TORRENT PCW1368 (TX)
2CKDL73F166067250 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX
The following vehicles were towed to and
may be retrieved @ 1700 Brittmoore Rd.
Houston, Texas 77043
713-468-4242. VSF#:0000516
2012 WABASH 1JJV532D4CL716581
$5301.01
1999 LEXUS JT8BH28FXX0164371
$466.40
2022 FORD 1FDXE4FN0NDC03282
$441.66
2014 NISSAN 1N4AL3AP9EX423048
$441.66
2017 NISSAN 3N1AB7AP8HY345736
$392.19
2014 CHEVY 1G1PC5SB5E7417901
$416.93
2005 KAWASAKI KZT00AE105535
$392.19
2011 CHEVY 1G1ZB5E1XBF235580
$392.19

Houston-area Latinos
have played an outsized
role in growing the region’s economy in recent
years, according to a study
published this week.
From 2018 to 2021, Latinos were responsible for
68.3% of the metropolitan
area’s gross domestic
product growth despite
making up about 40% of
the population.
The study, funded by
Bank of America, found
the share of Latinos in the
Houston metro’s labor
force grew by 39% from
2010 to 2021, compared to
only 14% for non-Latinos
in the same period. Researchers from California
Lutheran University and
UCLA’s Center for the
Study of Latino Health
and Culture produced the
analysis.
Researchers cited the
Houston area’s young Latino population to explain
the economic boost in recent years. (About a third
of the city’s Hispanic population is under 18, and
43% is between 18 and 44,
according to the University of Houston’s Hobby
School of Public Affairs.)
The Cal Lutheran and
UCLA study said the metro’s coming-of-age Latinos are “overwhelmingly”
second- and third-generation Americans, and the
number of Latinos with a
bachelor’s degree grew at
a rate 2.9 times that of nonLatinos from 2010-21.
These shifts, though
more evident in the Houston area, have also played
out on larger scales despite the disproportionately high mortality rates
Latinos faced in the first
years of the COVID-19
pandemic.
The study said that in
2021, Latinos contributed
$581.2 billion to the Texas
economy, with the top sectors being finance and real
estate, government, professional and business
services, mining and
quarrying, and construction.
And across the country,
the Latino population’s total economic output in
2021 was $3.2 trillion. The
Latino GDP grew by 7.1%
that year, about 2% more
than that of non-Latinos.
Murillo said she hopes
studies like this will influence how companies,
from small businesses to
large corporations, market toward and hire Latino
consumers and workers.
The purchasing power of
U.S. Latinos reached $3.4
trillion in 2021, according
to an Arizona State University study published
last year.
A recent census data release revealed that the
Houston
metropolitan
area grew by almost
140,000 last year, with
Harris County accounting
for more than a third of
that growth.
Although the U.S. Census Bureau won’t release
more detailed demographic information —
such as population by age,
sex, race and Hispanic origin — until this summer,
the data shows much of
the county’s population
growth was fueled by international migration.
More than 41,100 immigrants moved to Harris
County last year, second
in the country only to
Florida’s
Miami-Dade
County. We won’t know
exactly how much Latinos
contributed to that population growth until June,
but Murillo sees a clear
trend.
“As go Hispanics, so
goes Houston,” Murillo
said. “And the rest of the
country for that matter.”

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A7

SUGAR LAND SUN | KATY RANCHER |

REPORT

Houston is one of world’s top cities for millionaires
By Erica Grieder
STAFF WRIT E R

Houston is among the
world’s wealthiest cities,
with the number of millionaire residents here
soaring during the past
10 years, according to a
new analysis.
There are 90,900 millionaire residents in
Houston, according to an
annual report from Henley & Partners, a London-based
investment
migration consultancy.
According to that metric,
Houston is the fifthwealthiest city in the
United States and 17th in
the world, just above the
canton of Zurich, in
Switzerland.
Houston is also home
to 258 centimillionaires
— those with a net worth
of at least $100 million —
and 18 billionaires, according to Henley &
Partners. The consultancy advises wealthy individuals on migration decisions.
New York City and the
San Francisco Bay Area
lead the world when it
comes to collecting millionaires, with about
350,000 in New York and
306,000 in the Bay Area.
Tokyo ranks third, with
about 298,000 million-

Steven Hyde

Among American cities, only New York and San Francisco have more millionaire's than Houston, making it
one of the wealthiest cities, according to an analysis by a London firm.

aires.
Tokyo is among several world cities where the
number of millionaires
has declined over the
past 10 years, the report
notes. But the number of
has soared in many cities
across the Sun Belt.
Houston saw a 70% increase in local million-

aires from 2013 to 2023,
Dallas saw a 75% increase, and in Austin the
number of millionaires
has more than doubled to
32,700, according to the
report. The Texas capital
is America’s top city in
terms of millionaire
growth.
“Taxes are quite low in

states such as Texas and
Florida, so that’s probably a major driver of the
recent
millionaire
growth in these states,”
said Andrew Amoils,
head of research at New
World Wealth and a contributor to the report.
He added that Houston could continue to at-

tract and create more
millionaires within city
limits.
“Strong growth in
high-value sectors sector
such as high tech, tourism, green tech, fintech,
wealth management, and
family offices and engineering will be key,” he
said. “Also, if Houston is

able to get more Fortune
500 companies to move
their headquarters to the
city, that would significantly boost wealth held
in the city.”
Despite ranking on
Henley & Partners’ list of
wealthiest cities, Houston does not appear on
the firm’s list of the
world’s most expensive
cities, a striking dynamic
that has helped fuel the
region’s
population
growth, according to experts, The median income in Houston is about
$60,000 a year, compared with a national
median of about $75,000.
Henley & Partners’
rankings are drawn from
its in-house database of
more than 150,000 highnet-worth individuals,
as well as public databases and other sources.
The firm does not disclose the names of people
in its database.
“For the purposes of
this report, ‘wealth’ refers to an individual’s
liquid investable wealth,
which only includes listed company holdings,
cash holdings, and debtfree residential property
holdings,” said Sarah
Nicklin, head of public
relations for Henley &
Partners.

McCoy, Patterson to square off in Fulshear mayoral runoff
By Claire Goodman
STA FF WRIT E R

The Fulshear mayoral
race is heading to a runoff
after none of the three
candidates managed to
secure 50.1% of votes.
Don McCoy and Joel
Patterson will square off
for the seat in the June 15
election. Dominic Giametta was knocked out of
the running.
Patterson secured 480

votes at 42.7%, and McCoy
received 479 votes, or
42.62.%, city documents
show. Giametta trailed
with 14.68%, or 165 votes.
Patterson is a current
Fulshear City Council
member.
McCoy currently serves
as the president of the
Fulshear-Katy Chamber
of Commerce.
Patterson
said
he
wasn’t surprised by the
close race with McCoy,

given McCoy’s presence in
the Fulshear community.
“I expected him to have
a large turnout, so I knew
it would be tight,” Patterson said. “He moved here
last year so he could run
for mayor, and I think he’s
leveraged his role as
chamber president for his
campaign.”
McCoy said he was
proud to have the race
come to a runoff.
“I think, especially

since this is my first time
putting my name in for a
political office and then
running against a six-year
incumbent council member, to bring it to a runoff
and actually be virtually
tied is pretty amazing,”
McCoy
said.
“This
wouldn’t have been possible unless I touched some
people out there in Fulshear.”
Patterson stated that
his top priorities as mayor

are to fill the vacant city
manager position, improve infrastructure projects and fund the $127 million capital improvement
plan for 2025.
“It’s critically important to get someone who
has municipal government experience, and
there are some very critical infrastructure projects
we’re going to address
this year,” Patterson said.
McCoy plans to focus

on listening to the needs
of his constituents if elected.
“I’m here to listen, and I
think that’s what a representative is,” McCoy said.
“My vision is to take what
residents want and see
how we can make those
things make sense. We
have a lot of rapid growth
going out here, and we
want to make sure that the
town can be economically
viable for the future.”

A8 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

A

SUGAR LAND SUN | KATY RANCHER |

SUGAR LAND SUN | KATY RANCHER |

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A9

A10 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

SUGAR LAND SUN | KATY RANCHER |

!

MONTHS

NE

Look
Lookfor
foryour
yourgrocery
grocerycoupons
couponsinside!
inside!

YOURWOODLANDSNEWS.COM

•

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

• VOL. 46, NO. 53

•

50 CENTS

AN EDITION OF

Jon Shapley/Staff photographer

A Baker St. Pub & Grill location is seen in The Woodlands. A sign on the door indicated that the landlord had changed the locks.

BURNING OUT

Unpaid rent, economic woes behind Woodlands
restaurant closures
By Claire Partain

felice said. Compofelice closed one of
his two Fajita Pete’s franchise restaurants in the area in April.

STA FF WRIT E R

Locked doors, empty patios and
landlord notices have popped up recently in The Woodlands, as several
restaurants and bars have shut their
doors for good.
Since January, at least seven restaurants have closed, relocated or
announced their upcoming closures
in The Woodlands area. Some came
as a surprise to both employees and
customers, including longtime favorites Baker St. Pub & Grill and Local Pour, which closed ahead of
planned St. Patrick’s Day events.
Post-COVID eating habits and increased costs have made it harder
than ever for many locally owned
restaurants to eke out a living, foodie
and restaurateur Anthony Compo-

THE WOODLANDS
INSIDER
Reporter Claire Partain delivers
top stories from your
neighborhood to your inbox twice
a week — education, real estate,
new businesses and more.
Scan the QR code to sign up
for free.

Making hard choices

Courtesy photo

Uli's Kitchen, which will close after one final Cinco de Mayo, is one of
several Woodlands-area restaurants that have closed this year.

FOOD

SECOND
LOCATION

Long-awaited sushi restaurant and sake bar Bloofin
to open in Woodland’s
Restaurant Row.
PAGE A3

“There’s choices that people have
to make…" Compofelice said.
“Thankfully, we didn’t have any debt
and we didn’t have any investors …
but we were continuing to put money into it, and it was unsustainable.”
Getting into the restaurant or bar
business has always been a gamble,
Markle • DeLaCruz attorney Spencer Markle said. Some commercial
leases have a base rental rate and a
multiplier based on revenue, and
costs, including Texas Alcoholic
Beverage Commission licensing and
liquor liability insurance, are expensive, said Markle, who wrote the
Close continues on A7

A2 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

THE WOODLANDS VILLAGER

ADVICE
HOME IMPROVEMENT

Zinsser hits the spot for antique furniture
Many of my
customers have
furniture from
their parents or
relatives that
mean so much
Trudy
to them. It
Chuoke
might have been
Mom’s dressing
H AP PY
H A N DYMA N
table, or Dad’s
bedside table
and just looking at them brings
back many memories. I have a
few things that I have kept
from my late husband, and I
just like having them in the
house...a sweet remembrance
of the time we had together.
But sometimes the furniture
pieces that you get from your
family have been in storage. I
have this friend who collected
from her mom’s estate. The
furniture and clothing had
been stored in a barn. A very

stinky barn. And the furniture
had adsorbed all the odor.
She told me about all the
different things she tried before
coming to me. She tried airing
it out, she put charcoal in the
drawers, she cleaned it with a
degreaser, but the furniture
smelled so bad she couldn’t
keep it in the house. So she
asked me for help.
Zinsser makes great primers.
Primers for sheetrock that is
crumbling, primers for peeling
paint and a primer for odor.
Older furniture is made so well,
all wood no composite or laminates and that old wood can be
a sponge absorbing odors.
Odor Killing Primer can be
painted on a surface, and it will
seal in the offensive smell. My
friend sealed all the drawers
and the inside of the drawer.
Then she wanted to put a new

finish on the outside of the
furniture, and I suggested Varathane. Her pieces now made
their way into the house.
Another way to use Zinsser
is on kitchen cabinets. If you
had smoke damage from a
kitchen fire and nothing gets
rid of the odor in the cabinets.
You don’t have to have your
whole kitchen torn down. Try
Zinsser first. I used it on my
kitchen cabinets because the
previous owner was a smoker.
That smoke permeated into the
cabinets and when I would
leave for a trip and come backthe whole house had this lingering smell like someone had
been smoking inside my house.
When I finally figured out
what was causing the odor…..I
used Zinsser. All I had to do
was seal the inside of all the
cabinets, and there was no

lingering odor when I returned
from the trip. And this primer
goes on milky so you can see
where you have applied the
primer and then dries clear.

Now to some great
email…..

Question: After listening
to your Saturday afternoon
show on WOAI, I have decided to remove the silicone
caulk in my shower. So how
can I remove the caulk and
what caulk would you suggest that I replace for the
silicone?
Answer: Contractor’s DeSolv-It is great for removing
silicone caulk. First, use a single edged razor blade to cut the
caulk right down the middlw
and along each side. Then
spray the caulk with De-Solv-It.
Spray every 15 minutes for an

hour. Then re-caulk with Sashco Sealant Clean Seal. It has a
7-year guarantee to resist mildew. Allow 48 hours to cure.
Question: I have slippery
steps on a small outdoor
deck. I know that you paint
them with a texture paint,
but I love the color of the
deck and I don’t want to
change that – so is there
something else that is not an
abrasive tread.
Answer: Absolutely yes!
There is a tread that is soft to
the touch but will provide traction and a safe step. They are
called Handi Treads. I like
them because they are translucent and don’t stand out on the
deck. You can use Handi
Treads on wet surfaces also like
in the tub and shower.
www.happyhandyman.com

HEALTH CARE

Medicare enrollment process explained
Toni: I need
to make the
right Medicare
decision because I turn 65
in August and
have
not had a
Toni
health plan for
King
2 years. I do
M E D ICA RE
not know
ADV IC E
where to start
or what to do.
My friends are advising me if
I do not sign up for Medicare
when I turn 65, I will be making a major Medicare mistake.
Can you please simplify the
Medicare enrollment process?
Thanks, Toni
Cynthia, Alvin

Hi Cynthia: Medicare is exploding with an American turning 65 every 8 seconds.
The Medicare basics America
needs to know are:

1) Remember to enroll at the

right time:

a) Turning 65 and receiving
your Social Security check, your
“Welcome to Medicare” kit will
be mailed to you with your
Medicare card 90 days before
you turn 65.
b) Turning 65 and NOT receiving your Social Security check and
not working full time with true
employer group health insurance from either you or your
spouse’s work, you may want to
enroll in Medicare Parts A and
B online via www.ssa.gov.
c) Turning 65, working full-time
with “true” employer group health
insurance whether through your
or your spouse’s employer benefits may want to delay enrolling
in Medicare until you or your
spouse retire or are laid off.

2) Medicare is not free

Medicare covers a lot and
there is a cost associated with
Medicare Parts A and B. The

premium for Part A is at no cost
if you worked 10 years or 40
quarters and paid Medicare
taxes. Medicare Part B has a
premium which is means-tested
depending on your annual income. In 2024, most Medicare
beneficiaries pay $174.70 each
month for their Part B premium. Medicare Part A (hospital)
deductible for 2024 is $1,632, not
once a year but is every 60 days
or 6 times a year. The 2024
Medicare Part B deductible is
$240 once a year with Medicare
paying 80% of the Medicareapproved amount and you paying the remaining 20%.

3) Learn the different
Medicare Parts (A, B, C and
D)
Original Medicare is Medicare Parts A and B which covers hospital, medical and provider expenses. Medicare Part
C, known as Medicare Ad-

vantage plan, is another way of
receiving your Medicare benefits. Part D is the Medicare
Prescription Drug plan that can
be a stand-alone plan with Original Medicare and a Medicare
Supplement, or with a Medicare
Advantage plan that includes a
prescription drug plan.

4) “Original” Medicare

Original Medicare Parts A
and B have no network. Medicare Part A covers in-patient
hospital, skilled nursing/rehab
facility, home health and hospice care. Medicare Part B covers doctor services whether at
the office or surgical care, outpatient surgery/services, lab/Xrays, MRIs, durable medical
equipment, and preventative
services.

5) Medicare Advantage Plan
(MAPD)
You must be enrolled in Orig-

inal Medicare to qualify for a
Medicare Advantage Plan and
can select various Medicare
Advantage plans (Medicare Part
C) such as an HMO or PPO
plans that are offered by private
insurance companies. A MAPD
plan has an insurance provider
network with health care professionals or facilities that provide lower in-network rates.
You do not use your Medicare
(red, white, and blue) card because Medicare will pay the
MAPD plan for your care. You
will have co-pays, deductibles
and maximum out-of-pocket
costs associated with your
medical care.
Confused about Medicare Workshop in Katy is “Live” Thursday,
May 23 at 6 p.m. at Spring Creek
BBQ-Katy, 21000 Katy Frwy,
Katy, TX. 77449. RSVP:832/5198664 or visit www.tonisays.com.
Dinner not included.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A3

THE WOODLANDS VILLAGER

Bloofin opens second location on Restaurant Row
By Claire Partain
STA FF WRIT E R

Long-awaited
sushi
restaurant and sake bar
Bloofin is nearing its
grand opening on The
Woodlands’s Restaurant
Row.
Co-owners Laurence
Ho and Jason Jiang
opened the first edomaesushi eatery of the same
name in 2018, bringing
fresh fish from Tokyo’s
Toyosu market daily to the
Spring outpost. The second Bloofin similarly focuses on contemporary
Tokyo-style sushi but also
bring dry aged fish and a
44-bottle sake menu to the
table.
“This is fine dining,
more upscale,” manager
Jaroslav Jaros said. “We
wanted to stay humble,
but we wanted to show
our customers a different
experience.”

“It was pretty slow, and
people were still adapting
to the style of sushi that
we served, but now I think
it’s more popular,” Ho
said. “People want to eat
more, explore more.”
The second Bloofin will
also offer omakase after
its grand opening, Ho
said. It will also introduce
dry aged fish and more
fine dining options including lamb and wagyu
steak.
“The fish that we will be
serving is the same kind of
fish but with a different
preparation,” Ho said.
“We’re open to try more.”

A Hong Kong native, Ho
moved from Seattle to Texas and met Jiang in around
2012 before opening the
first Bloofin at 6615 North
Grand Parkway West in
2018.

Demand for sushi

“There are a lot of good
sushi restaurants downtown...but I always felt
there was a lot of unspoken demand for highquality sushi in the north
Houston area,” Ho said.
The main attraction at
the aptly-named Bloofin is
bluefin tuna, Ho said,
found across the menu in
nigiri, sashimi, maki and
“Houston” style sushi roll
dishes alongside other
fish from around the
world.
In addition to same-day
Toyosu fish, Bloofin utilizes Scottish salmon, Spanish bluefin tuna and flounder from Korea, Ho said.

Karen Warren/Staff photographer

Saké Mussels, black mussels in Thai red curry at
Bloofin The Woodlands in Hughes Landing on
Friday, May 3, 2024, in The Woodlands.

Other ingredients, like microgreens and baby carrots, are locally sourced in
Texas for freshness.
Ho said its clientele has

become more adventurous since they first
opened. The restaurant
introduced omakase in
2019.

Woodlands on transportation board
By Dug Begley
and Claire Partain
STAFF WRIT E RS

Long a major consideration in regional transportation planning,
The Woodlands now has a seat at
the decision-making table.
Members of the Houston-Galveston Area Council’s Transportation
Policy Council on Friday approved
adding the township to the policy
council, which oversees regional
transportation planning and doles
out some federal money dedicated
to the Houston area.
The decision now gives the transportation council 29 members, at a
time when Houston’s involvement
as the major city in the region remains in flux.
However, that The Woodlands
was not on the transportation council was always more a matter of law
rather than a desire to leave them
out of decision-making.
According to federal law, any city
with a population of 50,000 is entitled to a seat at the transportation
council table. The Woodlands —

pop. 118,000 — is a township, which
in Texas is not legally treated the
same as a city. Getting The Woodlands on the transportation council
therefore required some changes to
both state law last session and the
transportation council’s bylaws.
“They are everything a city is, except they say township,” said Waller County Precinct 4 Commissioner Justin Beckendorff, chairman of
the transportation council.
For the township, officials said it
offers a chance to influence planning like all member cities do.
“This position enables The
Woodlands Township Board to be
an additional voice for our residents on transportation and mobility issues,” township board of directors chairwoman Ann Snyder
said.
Population growth and commercial development in southern Montgomery County has made transportation an issue for residents as
many major roads, including Interstate 45 and Texas 105, face increasing congestion and are planned for
expansion.

However, adding The Woodlands
came with some opposition —
though not to their inclusion but to
the process. Adding the township is
one of a handful of changes to the
transportation council’s bylaws,
which are rarely updated, that officials began discussing monthly in
December.
Many of the changes are uncontroversial and prompted by minor
language tweaks in federal policy.
Others, however, proved contentious for the transportation council,
notably how to adjust its membership to satisfy a Houston voter referendum that required the city to
only participate in regional boards
with proportional voting. As it currently stands, Houston has four
votes on the 28 — soon to be 29 —
member board.
“The City of Houston still maintains we take the bylaws as a
whole,” policy council member and
Houston Council Member Abbie
Kamin said Friday, during a discussion of the changes, arguing H-GAC
should either pass all changes at
once now — or wait to pass any.

Hughes Landing
location on Lake
Woodlands

Located at 1900 Hughes
Landing, D-300, the new
5,000-square-foot Hughes
Landing space is also
more fine dining-adjacent,
with thick mahogany ta-

bles, a private room and a
soon-to-come patio on
Lake Woodlands.
“It’s a bit more intimate
(than the Spring location,)" Ho said. “Here,
there’s more of a business
setting. People come to
chit chat, definitely date
night, so that will be the
major difference.”
Everything on the
menu seeks to source authentic Japanese ingredients, including a substantial sake, wine and Japanese whisky menu. Its
cocktail list includes Japanese-infused classics from
yuzu-tinged
whiskey
sours to lycheetinis.
The restaurant has soft
opened after years of
pushed opening dates and
speculation on social media. Ho said the newest
Bloofin’s staff will work
out some kinks and build
chemistry before it fully
opens in mid-May.

A4 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

THE WOODLANDS VILLAGER

HEALTH

Intermittent fasting has its risks
Q: I read a recent headline
that said people who fast
intermittently have an increased risk of heart disease.
Is there merit
to this story?
A: Intermittent fasting is an
increasingly
common weightloss strategy. The
two most comDr. Keith
mon approaches
Roach
of intermittent
TO YOU R
fasting are alG O OD
H E ALT H
ternate-day
fasting (eating
nothing one day, then whatever
you want the next) and timerestricted feeding (eating at certain times in the day, usually in
an eight-hour time frame).
The published data on the
benefits of these diets show
short-term weight loss (i.e., 12
weeks), but no long-term weight
loss (one year), compared to
standard dietary advice.
There is evidence of potential
harm from intermittent fasting.
Studies have shown an increased
risk of eating disorders (particularly binge eating). One study
showed that disordered eating
worsened in those assigned to an
intermittent fasting schedule.
However, other studies do not
show this.
The concern for disordered
eating is highest among younger
and female populations, who are
most at risk for eating disorders,
and I advise against intermittent
fasting for a person with a history of an eating disorder.
The study you read about was
presented as an abstract in the
March meeting of the American
Heart Association; it is not yet
published or peer-reviewed. But
it did show that people who
report an intermittent-fasting
diet (specifically those who ate
over an eight-hour time frame)
were at a higher risk for death
from heart disease than those
who ate over a 12-16 hour time
frame.
However, this wasn’t a controlled study, and it is likely that
people who chose a time-restricted eating pattern already
had issues that put them at a
higher risk for heart disease.
Still, given the absence of
long-term benefits, I don’t generally recommend a time-restricted diet or intermittent fasting to
my patients.
My colleagues in weight medicine consider intermittent fasting
to be an option that helps a subset of people. There are some
people who do benefit from this
type of diet, and as long as they

Getty Images

The idea behind intermittent fasting is that brief periods of little to no caloric intake will help you lose weight, influence your
metabolism, help your circadian biology (sleep cycles) and enhance the gut microbiome.

are eating well and are being
monitored by their physician,
they should continue to follow
their diet if it is working for
them.
Q: As a person who has had
vocal cord paralysis after a
viral infection, I was fortunate not to need many of the
outlined modes of care. However, there was one additional
therapy that was utilized
within my plan of care —
speech therapy. It took a
while, but it worked well.
I suppose I may have some
lingering weakness. When I
experience a new viral upper
respiratory infection, I often
experience prolonged hoarseness. So, I pull out my exercise sheet once again, practice
the techniques and experience the same great results.
A: I thank the reader for
writing, as I should have recommended voice therapy for people
with vocal cord paralysis, as well
as those with other voice issues.
Some ear, nose and throat
physicians, speech-language
pathologists, respiratory therapists and voice coaches specialize in voice therapy.
Q: I read last year that

nearly 20 million Americans
were living with long COVID,
but I understand that the
number is much higher now.
Can you explain exactly what
long COVID is and how it is
treated?
A: Persistent symptoms after
an infection are not unique to
COVID. Many people will have
cough or asthma exacerbations
for weeks or even months after
a bad flu infection.
Likewise, many people have
symptoms (relating to many
different body systems) after
recovering from COVID. The
Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention and the World
Health Organization differ on
the amount of time after an
infection that has to pass for it
to be considered “long COVID”
— four weeks and three
months, respectively.
The most common physical
symptoms of long COVID are
fatigue, shortness of breath and
muscle aches. In one study of
people who survived the initial
wave of COVID, 45% had at
least one persistent physical
symptom.
The most common and persistent neurological/psychological symptoms are anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress

disorder and cognition problems (“brain fog”). Up to 25% of
COVID survivors had one of
these symptoms after their
physical recovery. This was
higher than other respiratory
viruses, such as influenza.
For those who required a stay
in the intensive care unit, over
75% had physical, psychological
or cognitive symptoms after
their discharge. These survivors
are at the highest risk for prolonged and severe long-COVID
symptoms.
There are many hypotheses
for the underlying cause of
long-COVID symptoms, and
although there is some evidence, it’s not clear whether
there is one single cause or
whether multiple mechanisms
are possible.
I wish I could get better results from the available treatments. Essentially, we treat each
patient’s concerns the same way
we would if the person hadn’t
had COVID. Emphasis on sleep,
nutrition and exercise are critical. But we should still recognize that many people with long
COVID have symptoms that are
very similar to myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome. As such, exercise should
not be overdone, since this can

worsen post-exertional symptoms.
Q: Do MRI tests, especially
of the head, contribute to
hearing loss even when earplugs are used?
A: MRI scans are very loud,
and exposure to loud noises can
cause hearing loss. However, it’s
the prolonged and repeated
exposure to loud noises that is
most likely to cause hearing
damage, so MRI scans are not
likely to be a problem. Earplugs
are still a good idea, though.
There is nothing about the
strong magnetic field in an MRI
machine that adversely affects
hearing. They just make a lot of
noise due to the moving electrical coils. Some machines can
cause levels up to 110 decibels —
as loud as a rock concert.
New MRI technology is coming that will dramatically reduce
the amount of noise made during a scan.
Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable
to answer individual letters, but
will incorporate them in the column
whenever possible. Readers may
email questions to ToYourGood
Health@med.cornell.edu or send
mail to 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803.

NAC supplement helped reader stop nail biting
sweetened beverages (European
Journal of Endocrinology, Jan. 3,
2024).
Others who would like to
learn more about this approach
can find further details along
with information on medications in our “eGuide to Acne
Solutions.” This online resource
is located under the Health
eGuides tab at Peoples
Pharmacy.com.

JOE AND TERESA
GRAEDON
PE OPLE ’S PHA RMACY

Q: I’ve been a nail-biter
since I was a kid. The only
way I had nice nails was to
spend a fortune at a salon.
When I learned that NAC
(N-acetylcysteine) is known
to help with BFRBs, bodyfocused repetitive behaviors,
such as nail biting, hair pulling or skin picking, I decided
to try it. After a few months
of taking this supplement, I
had beautiful, natural fingernails for the first time in my
entire life. A most welcome
extra benefit of NAC for me
is that I have absolutely no
desire for alcohol and my
appetite and craving for unhealthy foods are just gone.
My primary care doc is
fairly progressive, but he
knew nothing about NAC
other than its use in the
emergency room to reverse
acetaminophen overdose. He
gave me the stamp of approval after seeing the changes in
me. I take several supplements, but this one has had
the most profound and positive change in my overall
health.
A: Thank you so much for a
fascinating testimonial. As your
doctor told you, NAC is “the
mainstay of therapy for acet-

LWA-Dann Tardif/Getty Images

Very little research has been conducted on the use of N-acetylcysteine supplements to treat
body-focused repetitive behaviors, such as nail biting or hair pulling.

aminophen toxicity” (StatPearls,
Feb. 19, 2023). The Food and
Drug Administration approved
it for this indication in 1985.
There is far less research on
its use to control body-focused
repetitive behaviors with a compulsive component, such as nail
biting or hair pulling. A review
of the research noted that only a
few clinical trials of NAC for this
purpose have been conducted
(International Journal of Environmental Research and Public
Health, May 2022).

We haven’t seen any studies
showing that NAC can reduce
the urge for alcohol or junk
food. However, a small study in
Indonesia demonstrated that it
helped men stop smoking (Cureus, Feb. 16, 2024).
NAC has a good safety profile.
It may cause nausea, vomiting or
diarrhea, and occasionally, people develop reactions such as a
rash or flushing. Headache,
hives or fever may occur at the
high doses used to treat acetaminophen toxicity (American

Family Physician, Aug. 1, 2009).
Q: My 16-year-old daughter
had terrible acne. She gave
up sugar, dairy and gluten,
and her acne disappeared
within six weeks. She has
beautiful skin now.
A: It sounds like your daughter found a great solution. Studies show that avoiding milk and
other dairy products can be
helpful for those with acne (Nutrients, Oct. 17, 2023). It also
makes sense to avoid sugar-

Q: I have a question about
the amount of elemental zinc
that would be safe to take per
day. My supplement has 7
milligrams of elemental zinc
per tablet. When I looked it
up, the American Academy of
Family Physicians says that
the tolerable upper limit of
elemental zinc per day is 40
milligrams. How much zinc
could I take without interfering with copper?
A: The Recommended Dietary Allowance for Adults is 8
milligrams for women and 11
milligrams for men. Your question is sophisticated. Excess zinc
intake, which might occur at
doses of 50 milligrams/day for
weeks, can interfere with copper
absorption and reduce immune
function. The Food and Nutrition Board (FNB) at the National
Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine has established 40 milligrams daily as
the tolerable upper limit of zinc
for adults.
Write to Joe and Teresa Graedon in
care of King Features, 628 Virginia
Drive, Orlando, FL 32803, or
email them via their website:
PeoplesPharmacy.com.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A5

THE WOODLANDS VILLAGER

HEALTH
LONE STAR FAMILY HEALTH CENTER

Understanding and treating
common insect bites and stings
Insect bites
and stings are
frequent encounters in
primary care
settings, often
Dr. Kyle S. presenting with
a range of
Johnson
symptoms from
H E ALT H
minor irritation
to severe allergic reactions. Both patient
and healthcare provider need
to know the most common
presentations in order to appropriately treat in a timely
manner if necessary. By understanding the nuances of the
various common insect bites
and stings, healthcare providers can effectively diagnose,
treat, and educate patients on
preventive measures.
In general, the clinical presentation of insect bites and
stings varies depending on the
type of insect involved, the
individual's immune response,
and any underlying medical
conditions. Common symptoms include localized pain,
itching, swelling, and redness.
Reactions such as fever, malaise, and swelling of the lymph
nodes may occur in severe
cases or in individuals with
allergies. Some of the most
common insect bite/sting presentations will be discussed
below.
Mosquito Bites: Mosquitoes
are ever-present insects known
for their itchy bites. While
most mosquito bites result in
minor discomfort, they can
transmit serious diseases such
as malaria, dengue fever, West
Nile virus, Zika virus, among
others. The AAFP guidelines
recommend advising patients
to use insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil
of lemon eucalyptus to prevent
mosquito bites. Additionally,

stock.adobe.com

eliminating standing water
around the home is vitally
important to reduce mosquito
breeding sites.
Bee and Wasp Stings: Bee and
wasp stings can cause localized
pain, swelling, and redness.
However, in individuals with
allergies, they may lead to
severe reactions, including
anaphylaxis (low blood pressure, shortness of breath, or
even shock). According to
AAFP guidelines, prompt
administration of epinephrine
is crucial in managing anaphylaxis due to insect stings. Clinicians should also prescribe
self-injectable epinephrine
devices to patients at risk of
severe allergic reactions and
provide appropriate education
on their use.
Flea Bites: Flea bites often
present as small, red bumps
with intense itching and can
transmit diseases such as
plague and typhus. Fleas are
commonly associated with pets
but can also bite humans, causing itchy red bumps. AAFP
guidelines emphasize the importance of treating pets for
fleas to prevent infestations in
the household. Additionally, it
is important to wash bedding
and vacuum carpets regularly
to eliminate flea eggs and larvae. Creams and ointments
and over-the-counter allergy

medications may provide
symptomatic relief for flea
bites.
Tick Bites: Ticks can transmit
various infectious diseases,
including Lyme disease and
Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
AAFP guidelines recommend
prompt removal of ticks using
fine-tipped tweezers, grasping
the tick as close to the skin's
surface as possible and pulling
upward with steady, even pressure. If you are outside a lot,
you will want to check your
body regularly for ticks, particularly after outdoor activities
in wooded or grassy areas, and
use insect repellents containing DEET for prevention.
Bedbug Bites: Bedbugs are
nocturnal insects that feed on
human blood, causing itchy,
red welts. They are commonly
found in areas with high human activity, such as hotels
and dormitories. AAFP guidelines recommend a multi-step
approach to managing bedbug
infestations, including thorough cleaning of infested
areas, laundering bedding and
clothing in hot water, and using insecticidal sprays or powders. Although bedbugs are
not known to transmit diseases
dealing with them can result in
psychological distress or anxiety, and your family physician
can help to provide appropri-

ate support and resources.
The management of insect
bites and stings focuses on
alleviating symptoms, preventing complications, and educating patients on preventive
measures. For non-allergic
reactions, treatments can include calamine lotion, hydrocortisone cream and antihistamines can help relieve itching
and inflammation.
Whereas if an allergic reaction is present or suspected,
your doctor may recommend
oral antihistamines such as
loratadine (Claritin) and cetirizine (Zyrtec) to provide symptomatic relief for mild allergic
reactions. Individuals with a
history of severe allergic reactions should always have and
use an epinephrine auto-injector and proceed to receive
prompt medical attention. If
you have had an anaphylactic
reaction, your doctor will provide further instructions.
Of course, it is best to avoid
being bitten in the first place.
Using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing, and
avoiding known insect habitats
can reduce the risk of bites and
stings.
When in doubt about severity of symptoms, do not hesitate to seek appropriate medical care.
Dr. Kyle S. Johnson is a resident
physician who sees patients of all
ages and provides obstetrical
services at Lone Star Family
Health Center, a non-profit 501©3
Federally Qualified Health Center
operating facilities in Conroe,
Spring, Willis, Grangerland, and
Huntsville, and serving as home
to a fully integrated Family Medicine Residency Program to increase the number of Family
Medicine physicians for Texas
and our community.

WHAT’S GOING
AROUND

Recovery
after
the flood
The rain
challenged us
greatly last
week.
For many of
us the work
isn’t over.
Dr. Kyle
Neither are
Scarborough
the
challenges
GU E ST
C O LU M N I ST
to our health.
The water that
coursed through streets and
homes was contaminated with
sewage and pollutants.
The risk of infection Is relatively high for anyone who
sustained wounds from stepping on sharp objects, thorns,
or broken glass.
Kids who played in flooded
streets are at greater risk for
ear infections than from any
pool water.
The mosquito population
will multiply greatly in lowlying areas.
What to do: Follow city
notices on regarding drinking
water precautions.
Get kids to the doctor early
for signs of ear infections.
It’s probably not a virus.
If any cuts or scrapes were
exposed to flood water, prompt
treatment with antibiotics is
probably indicated, along with
a tetanus booster. If stagnant
water remains in your area
avoid wading barefoot.
Drain whatever standing
water you can to reduce the
breeding spots for mosquitoes.
Thought for the day: We’re
seeing a little bit more of the
sun. But dealing with the flood
water still isn’t done.
Contributed by family practice
doctor Kyle Scarborough, M.D.
You can reach him at
www.familylifemedical.com

A6 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

THE WOODLANDS VILLAGER

Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion releases free concert lineup
By Claire Partain
STA FF WRIT E R

All of the Cynthia
Woods Mitchell Pavilion’s performing arts
shows will be fully free
for the first time this year.
The Woodlands’ largest music venue has always had free seating on
the lawn for its performing arts shows; now, no
one will need a ticket or
pass to enter the concert
hall on performing arts
days. A 50th anniversary
celebration featuring Lyle
Lovett will also be free.
The move is in line with
CEO Jeff Young’s mission
to make the arts available
to the community.
“We are putting our
money where our mouth
is and will be rolling out
some new initiatives that
will truly make the performing arts accessible to
all,” Young said in April.
“We need to continually

o n

illi

o s

Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer

Jerry MacDonald, CEO of the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, is seen, Wednesday, Aug. 9, 2023, in The Woodlands. MacDonald steps
down after 20 years with the organization, propelling the venue into the top 10 amphitheater’s in the world.

John Phillip Yoars, age
80 of The Woodlands, Texas entered eternal rest on
Monday, April 29, 2024. He
was born on June 9, 1943,
in Peru Indiana and was
preceded in death by his father Earl Thomas Yoars, his
mother Betty Lou Jones
Yoars, brother Jerry Yoars
and sister Julia twin sister
to Jill . He is survived by
his loving wife of almost 0
years, Irene Yoars. John’s
son John JP Yoars Susan ;
their children Jarred, Christopher Callie and Rhys
Magnolia, Texas . Daughter Melissa Schrock Kenny Arthur, Illinois ; their
children Meredith Columbus, Ohio , Erin, and Nolan
Arthur, Illinois . Stepson
Scott Richeson Kim & their
children Cole and Kylie The
Colony, Texas . John’s siblings Jim Yoars Cheryl
Bunker Hill, Indiana , and
Jill Kevin Ethington Rathdrum, Idaho .
John worked in the
chemical industry for over
0 years and loved what he
did. Graduating with a BS in
Chemical Engineering from
Indiana Institute of Technology, he started his journey in 1966 with Hercules
Missouri / Sinclair Iowa
/ Distrigas New Jersey /
Cabot Tuscola, Illinois . In
1978 he moved to Clearlake,
Texas to work for ARCO/Lyondell/Lyondell-CITGO and
eventually landed in The
Woodlands, Texas. He was
a member of the 100 Club
in the Chemical industry.
John tried retirement a
couple times, but it never
managed to stick, beginning his latest career as a
consultant in the petrochemical industry which he
enjoyed until his passing.
John was an avid fisherman, hunter and enjoyed traveling. In his free
time, he was a collector of
Farmall tractors where he
and his brother Jim would
restore them on the farm.
He was a member of the
International
Harvester
Chapter 2 Collectors. John
was extremely proud of
all his grandchildren and
the young adults they are
growing into, never failing
to support them in all their
endeavors.
John & Irene have many
friends in The Woodlands
and were part of numerous card groups and clubs
where they would get together enjoying their time
together. He served on
the Grogan’s Mill board in
The Woodlands in addition
to serving on the Municipal Utility District Water
Board .
John loved the Lord and
was a faithful servant. We
will miss him dearly but are
comforted knowing that he
is resting in peace with our
Lord.
A Celebration of Remembrance will be held July 2nd
in the Chapel at The Methodist Church, The Woodlands, Texas.

push the envelope with
new
and
innovative
works and evolve as an
organization to the ever-

n

ue ole

n

Wanda Coleman was born
Wanda Sue Dunn on Nov 2 ,
1937, in DeKalb, Texas, to
Thomas Mouzon and Boyce
Beatrice Dunn, and had one
baby brother, Thomas Gaylon Dunn.
Wanda met Ed Coleman
their freshman year in high
school at Splendora High
School, and later married
him on October 12th, 19 7.
Wanda passed into her
Savior’s arms on April 18th,
2024. On this day, she and
Ed had been married 66
years, 6 months and 6 days.
Her strength and love
for learning led her to go
back to school while having
small children, get her Master’s Degree in Education,
and begin teaching school.
She taught English, Texas
History, and Government
at Travis Jr High and McCollough High School level
for 3 decades.
After retiring, she loved
traveling, being a part of
the Bouncing Babes Exercise Club, and meeting
with friends over Mahjong
or lunch.
However, none of these
could hold a candle to her
love for her family, and
family
gatherings especially at Easter, July 4th,
and Thanksgiving.
Wanda was preceded in
death by her parents and
brother.
Wanda is survived by her
husband VE “Eddie” Coleman Jr., her children Stephen Coleman and wife
Connie of Decatur, T , Jeff
Coleman and wife Kathy of
The Woodlands, T , Mike
Coleman and wife Erica
of Denver, CO, and Robin
Kamperman and husband
Kevin of Austin, Texas. She
is also survived by ten
grandchildren, five great
grandchildren, and many
relatives and friends.
Life lessons she both
instilled in her children
and modeled every day
were to do what is right,
and not complain. Her inner strength and stability
helped her to live even her
last days with grace and
dignity. She leaves a lasting legacy of love.
A “Celebration of Life”
will take place on Saturday May 18th, 2024, at the
Walden Community Church
in Montgomery, T , beginning at 11 a.m. with a memorial service followed by a
reception.
In lieu of owers, donations in Wanda’s memory
to Saint Louise House are
appreciated.

changing landscape.”
Here are nine ways to
catch a concert for free
this year:

Bugs Bunny at the
Symphony

The Houston Symphony will kick of the Pavilion’s free concert season
with Bugs Bunny at The
Symphony June 18.
Conducted by George
Daugherty, the show pioneered the “live orchestra
and big screen” concerts
that incorporate a live
soundtrack with the cartoons on video.

The Music of Pink
Floyd

As the Houston Symphony’s summer home,
the Pavilion will feature
several
performances
from the orchestra, including a Pink Floyd-centric concert June 26.
Pink Floyd’s music is a
natural match for the orchestra, according to the
venue, and will feature
unusual harmonies, ethereal high string lines and
rich underscores from

the band’s robust soundtrack.

Star-Spangled Salute

the July 26 event.

Woodlands
Symphony

The annual Star-Spangled Salute will pair new
conductor Jason Seber,
who is new to the event,
with the tradition’s classic songs,
Each song will look to
evoke patriotism in celebration of Independence
Day, and red, white and
blue gear will be abundant. Gates open at 6 p.m.
July 3.

The Woodlands’ own
symphony orchestra will
take the Pavilion stage
Sept. 18 for its Once Upon
a Symphony event.
Celebrating fantastical
fiction featuring dragons,
magic
and
far-away
lands, the show is great
for introducing young
children to classical music, according to the venue.

Batman (1989) in
Concert

Hocus Pocus Pops

In celebration of the
film’s 35th anniversary,
the Houston Symphony
will perform a live orchestra soundtrack to the
1989 Batman while the
film is projected onscreen.
The film’s soundscore
was composer Danny Elfman’s first collaboration
with director Tim Burton
and was nominated for a
Grammy award.
Catch the iconic “Batman” theme in-person at

The Pavilion’s spookiest annual concert will
feature spooky symphony songs and trick or
treating for the horde of
“little costumed ghouls
and goblins” that will descend upon the event.
Gates will open for
trick or treating at 6 p.m.
Oct. 17.

50th anniversary
Lyle Lovett concert

For its 50th birthday,
The Woodlands will host
a free concert featuring
Lyle Lovett and Woodlands-native Hayes Carll,
Howard Hughes and The
Woodlands Township announced Wednesday.
The event will include
Lovett, a Klein native, His
Big Band, and Carll as an

l n u

opener.
“Given that both Lyle
Lovett and Hayes Carll
have personal connections to The Woodlands,
this 50th anniversary
concert holds an extra
layer of significance,”
Howard Hughes Houston
president Jim Carman
said.
Registration for priority access to tickets is now
open.

US Army Field Band
and Soldier’s Chorus

The touring United
States Army Field Band
will make a pit stop in The
Woodlands to perform at
the pavilion this fall.
By bringing a variety of
music
to
audiences
around the world, the
Field Band fosters support for the armed forces
from the American people and supports diplomatic efforts abroad.
The band will perform
at 7 p.m. Oct. 22.

Holly Jolly Jingle

Canceled by storms in
2023, Conroe ISD students look to take to the
stage once again this year
at the annual Holly Jolly
Jingle concert Nov. 5.
The event features student musicians across
genres performing holiday-themed music.

e o

Walter Alan Rutherford
born 11.9.1931 passed away
4.30.2024
This is to celebrate the life
of Walter Alan Rutherford.
Alan was born November 9,
1931 in Dallas, Texas where
he spent the formative years
of his life. He is predeceased
by his father and mother,
Ewell R Rutherford and Anna
Louise Rutherford, and his
youngest daughter Rebecca
Lynn Coker. He is survived by
his brother Ronald Rutherford of Naples, Florida,
whom he described as “very
smart,” and his daughter
Lisa Renaud of Georgia, and
son Gary Rutherford of the
Woodlands, Texas, and many
granddaughters, grandsons,
and great grandchildren.
To characterize his life,
Frank Sinatra’s “I did it my
way.” is only appropriate.
He had a keen sense of dry
humor that kept his family
and friends laughing until the
end. He was “intense and as
tough as nails.” He served in
the US Marine Corp., Artillery unit on Howitzers in
the Korean War. Alan was an
Eagle Scout. He was an accomplished and decorated
marksman and had a lifelong
passion for gun and artillery collecting. The Walter
Alan Rutherford Gun Collection will be donated to a
museum.
Alan graduated from
Southern Methodist University, with a BS in Geological

Sciences. He worked for Sun
Oil Co. for 32 years, as did
his father before him.
The most important job
Alan Rutherford achieved
and excelled at, was being
a single father of three children in a time fathers did not
raise their children alone. His
daughter, Lisa, will forever
hold all men to a standard,
he set, that is unobtainable.
“He was and forever will be,
the voice in my head, my
light, my inspiration, my loving dad.”
No formal funeral services are planned. A military
internment will be set at a
later date. Memorial service/
celebration of his life for
family and close friends is
planned. In lieu of owers,
his love of animals would be
honored through the SPCA of
Houston.
Alan passed away peacefully April 30,2024 at home
with his brother Ronald and
daughter Lisa by his side.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A7

THE WOODLANDS VILLAGER

The Woodlands Christian boys win fourth straight TAPPS golf title
By Jon Poorman
STA FF WRIT E R

The Woodlands Christian Academy boys golf
program captured its
fourth
consecutive
TAPPS 5A state championship Tuesday at Squaw
Valley Golf Course in Glen
Rose.
The Warriors shot
rounds of 287 and 273 to
beat out the rest of the
field by 19 strokes. Alex
Malanga (69-68—137) led
the charge for TWCA with
a third-place finish. Duke
Heise (73-67—140), Quentin Frost (73-68—141) and
Hudson
Grace
(7270—142) also finished in
the top 10 to earn all-state
honors.
Fort Bend Christian junior Eli Walker Campbell
won the individual title,
firing rounds of 64 and 65
for a 129 total. The Oklahoma commit beat out the
rest of the field by six
strokes. Second Baptist’s
Christopher Torn (6972—141) finished tied for
seventh.
Lutheran South won
the 5A girls title with
rounds of 348 and 329 for a
677 total. They beat out
the rest of the field by 21
strokes. Emma Poffinbarger (80-77—157) and
Addison Trahan (7979—158) led the way for the
Pioneers with all-state
honors. Fort Bend Christian sophomore Jamison

CLOSE
From page A1
Texas Liquor Liability
Practice Manual.
“This is an endemic
problem that’s been going
on for decades and decades,”
Markle
said.
“Overhead suffers … I
think that plus market saturation creates a perfect
storm where a lot of people close.”

Inflation exacerbates
challenges

The costs were compounded when inflation
increased. Competition
for employees is stiff, and
many businesses had to
raise wages, as well as
food prices, Markle said.
Spring meal prep restaurant Farley’s Fit Kitchen had been open for six
years and was thinking of
expanding into an adjacent space. But the property owner informed them
the lease would not be renewed when it ended two
months later, general
manager Brittany Turner
said. (The property owner
could not be reached for
comment.)
“With us being a food
prep company and a small
business, the thought of
having to find some new
real estate in this economy
right now, do a rebuild
(and) get all the permits
and all that stuff, (we
thought,) ‘You’re going to
close our business,’ ”
Turner said.
Depending on the lease,

TWCA Golf

The Woodlands Christian Academy boys golf program captured its fourth consecutive TAPPS 5A state
championship Tuesday.

Louie (72-70—142) was the
individual
champion,
earning a three-shot victory. Second Baptist’s Anastasia Rowlen (84-82—166)
finished 10th.
Over at Cottonwood
Creek Golf Course in Waco, the St. Agnes girls finished as the state runner
up at the Class 6A tournament. The Tigers posted
rounds of 322 and 313 for a
635 total. Dallas Ursuline
(299-292—591) won the
championship by 44
strokes.
St. Agnes also had the
individual runner-up as

Sophia Ellestad, the 2022
and 2023 champion, shot
rounds of 75 and 67 for a
142 total. She matched Ursuline’s Sonia Hao (6973—142) at the end of two
rounds, but ultimately
took second after two
playoff holes.
St. Agnes’ Etta Huffman (75-78—153) finished
eighth to earn all-state
honors.
On the boys side, St. Pius X senior Tyler Rosson
(75-76—151) finished ninth
to earn all-state. St. Thomas (318-317—653) was the
top Houston-area team,

landlords can lock commercial tenants out of
their spaces as soon as the
first day of late rent. Notices must give tenants the
name, address and telephone number of the person who can give the tenant a new key once back
rent is paid.
“It depends on whether
or not the landlord believes that somebody
who’s behind can catch up
and how much patience
they’re willing to have before they lock them out,
which is a pretty severe
remedy,” Markle said. “I
would think that probably
the most common reason
why they bring down the
hammer and lock them
out is they feel that it’s not
going to be vacant for very
long and maybe the next
tenant has greater financial wherewithal.”
Since March, notices
have been spotted on the
doors of Local Pour, Baker
St. Pub & Grill, Blue Lion
Pub and Taco Inn & Churreria Porfirio.
When a property owner
has a lien on the property,
it can seize whatever is on
the premises to satisfy any
outstanding dues, Markle
said.
Some local restaurants,
including Uli’s Kitchen,
have announced their closures ahead of time, citing
financial woes. Uli’s remained open through
May 6.
“Unfavorable economic
conditions are taking a lot
of us little mom-and-pops,
as you well know,” Uli’s

Kitchen said in a Facebook post. “In the end, we
gave it everything we
could, and we thank those
of you who have been loyal
supporters and regular
patrons.”
Others, like The Woodlands’ Genghis Grill and
Taco Inn, have closed
without advance notice to
customers.

Some reopenings in
The Woodlands

Restaurant and bar closures are inevitable, Markle said. The restaurants
that survive must carve
out a niche and establish a
pool of regulars. It’s important to have a good relationship with property
owners, Compofelice said.
Some local restaurants,
including Rosati’s and
Mel’s Country Cafe, have
had successful reopenings.
Farley’s Fit Kitchen
moved to a new spot at
17045 Stuebner Airline in
Spring. “If it wasn’t for our
customers, we would have
already had to close our
doors,” Turner said.
Still, Compofelice worries that mom-and-pops
are suffering most.
“I think (fewer) independent restaurants are
opening places because
they know they can’t
make it,” Compofelice
said. “My guess is what’s
going to happen is exactly
what we’re seeing, which
is more chain restaurants
with large corporate backing going into places like
The Woodlands.”

taking fourth place.
Earlier this spring, the
Logos Prep girls won the
Class 4A state title. The

team was led by Audrey
Kuntz (84-73—157), who
finished as the individual
runner-up. Keira Wagner

(88-85—173) and Lauren
Kuntz (91-87—178) also
earned all-state honors.
Cypress
Christian’s
Grayson
Petru
(6870—138) finished third on
the boys side.
The Rosehill Christian
boys won the 3A title, edging out Midland Trinity
by nine strokes. Kaden
Jenkins (71-72—143) was
the individual champion,
while Aaron Evans (7781—158) and Rylen Cannon
(85-79—164) finished sixth
and ninth, respectively,
for all-state honors.
Rosehill Christian’s Jaycee Jenkins won the girls
title, shooting 69 and 65
for a 134 total. She won the
tournament by doubledigit strokes for the second consecutive year.
Cypress Covenant won
the 1A boys state title. The
team was led by Matthew
Li (86-71—157) and Charlie
Grooms (79-81—160), who
took third and fourth, respectively.

A8 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

THE WOODLANDS VILLAGER

Learning to enjoy a bad taste
Today I thought we’d
talk about things we had
to learn to like. I’m not
talking about old TV
shows, movies, or Vespas.
I’m talking about consumables. You know, food and
drink? — I don’t know
how “Vespas” surfaced. I
probably need more coffee.
Speaking of which, I got
the idea about food and
drink after reading an
article about the advent of
coffee. The coffee bean can

be traced
back to a
million
years ago. I
don’t know
how many
humanMark
oids, if any,
Hayter
were
GU E ST
COLU M NIST
around
back then,
but there
were coffee plants. The
weird thing about them
was that the beans from

the few varieties of coffee
plants were not worth
eating. The Triceratops
wouldn’t even touch them.
This begs the question,
why would God introduce
to this planet a plant that
had beans that tasted
terrible to both man and
beast? Come to find out,
God has so much more
patience than we do. In his
infinite wisdom, God saw
fit to cross-pollinate two
varieties of coffee plants,

both of which ended up
growing in the forests of
Ethiopia. Back then, Ethiopia was called… uh, well
it wasn’t called anything,
because back then humanoids nor beasts could even
phrase a sentence. Oh, and
about Ethiopia having
forests? We’re just going to
have to take the word of
the ancient horticulturists
because at the moment
Ethiopia has no grass and
only six trees. Give or take.

It took thousands of
years for humanoids to
boil some of the beans
from the newly pollinated
coffee plant. During the
boil, the beans smelled
wonderful, so the humanoid called them “Yum
Yum”. After the first sip of
the boiled bean juice, they
spit it out and renamed it
Yuk Dud.”
Whoever this first coffee taster was, he or she
was the first to establish

DEVOTIONAL PAGE
For More Info Call 281-378-1000
ANGLICAN
HopePointe Anglican Church
3333 South Panther Creek Dr.
The Woodlands, Texas 77381
281-362-1144
www.hopepointe.org
Living Grace Anglican
Church
2610 N. Woodloch St.
Conroe, Texas 77385
936-344-1928
Ourlivinggrace.org
All Saints Anglican Church
350 Foster Drive
Conroe, TX 77301
940-245-6619
allsaintsconroe.com
BAHAI
Baha’i Faith
1-800-22-unite or
281-367-0979
www.bahai.com
BAPTIST
Community Baptist Church
8909 Cochran’s Crossing
936-271-4446
www.cbcwoodlands.org
Northway Baptist Church
of The Woodlands
8200 Northway Dr.
936-273-0800
www.northwaychurch.org
Crossroads Baptist Church
5000 College Park Dr.
The Woodlands, TX 77384
(936) 271-7500
www.crossroadstw.org
First Baptist – The
Woodlands North Campus
5148 FM 1488
281-356-5521
First Baptist – The
Woodlands South Campus
11801 Grogan’s Mill Road
281-367-4317
Alana Lane Baptist Church
311 Alana Lane, Spring, TX
281-292-6770
www.alanalanebaptistchurch.com
Gateway Baptist
2930 Rayford Rd.
281-363-4500
www.discovergateway.com
Oak Ridge Baptist
500 East Oak Hill Drive
Spring, TX 77386
281-367-9721
www.orbcfamily.org
Spring Creek Baptist
1431 Rayford Rd.
281 419 7776
www.springcreekbaptist.org
Impact Church
of the Woodlands
5401 Shadowbend Place
281-363-0220
www.myimpactchurch.org
Sojourn Baptist Church
27420 Robinson Rd
281-292-7070
www.sojournbaptist.org

CATHOLIC
Sts. Simon & Jude Catholic
26777 Glen Loch Dr.
281-367-9885
https://www.ssjwoodlands.com/
St. Anthony of Padua
7801 Bay Branch Dr.
The Woodlands
(281) 419-8700
www.ap.church
CHRISTIAN (DISCIPLES)
The Woodlands
Christian Church
1202 N. Millbend Dr.
281-367-7139
www.twcc.org
CHRISTIAN SCIENCE
First Church of Christ,
Scientist
1340 N. Millbend Dr.
281-292-4020
firstchurchcsthewoodlands.com
CHURCH OF CHRIST
College Park Church
of Christ
Please Call For
Time & Place of Services
281-747-3015
Woodland Oaks
Church of Christ
7300 Crown Ridge Dr.
936-273-0010
www.woodlandoaks.org
CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST
OF LATTER DAY SAINTS
27707 Glen Loch Dr.
281-298-3283
10303 Branch Crossing Dr.
281-292-6733
churchofjesuschrist.org
COMMUNITY CHURCH
Church Project
www.churchproject.org
The Crossing Church
6265 Shadowbend Place
281 292 2909
El Español Translation
11:00am
https://www.thecrossing.cc/
Northway Church
8200 Northway Dr.
The Woodlands
(936) 273-0800
https://northwaychurch.org/
Woodlands Church
1 Fellowship Dr.
The Woodlands 77384
281-367-1900
www.wc.org
Faith Bible Church
5505 Research Forest Dr.
936-321-5505
https://faithbible.church/
Creekside Bible Church
2981 W. Hawthorne Drive
Spring, TX
(936) 697-6789
www.mycreeksidechurch.org

StoneBridge Church
1 StoneBridge Church Dr.
The Woodlands, TX 77382
281-363-9292
www.gostonebridge.com

WoodsEdge
Community Church
25333 Gosling Rd.
Spring 77389
281-364-0415
www.woodsedge.org

Memorial Baptist Church
22333 Kuykendahl Road
Spring, TX 77379
281-378-4400
Mbchouston.org

New Haven House of Prayer
6262 Creekside Green
281-351-6262
https://newhavenhop.com/

CONSERVATIVE SYNAGOGUE
Congregation Shaarey Tzedek
www.shaareytzedek.com
administrator@shaareytzedek.com
EPISCOPAL
Trinity Episcopal
3901 S. Panther Creek
281-367-8113
www.trinitywoodlands.org
FULL GOSPEL
Generations Church
405 Rayford Rd.
281-367-2417
gbchurch.net
North Place Church
28152 Robinson Rd.
Conroe, TX
281-298-7600
www.northplacechurchtx.com
The Way Church
24418 I-45 N
281-681-8922
www.waychurch.org
JEWISH
Chabad of The Woodlands
Learning Center
25823 Budde Rd. | The
Woodlands, TX 77380
281.865.7242
www.JewishWoodlands.com
Congregation Beth Shalom
5125 Shadowbend Place
(281) 362-1100
www.cbsw.org
Congregation Jewish
Community-North
5400 Fellowship Lane
281-376-0016
www.cjcn.org
Congregation Shaarey Tzedek
Conservative Synagogue
www.shaareytzedek.com
administrator@shaareytzedek.com
LUTHERAN
Good Shepherd Lutheran
9191 Cochrans Crossing Dr.
(936) 273-1919
www.gslcthewoodlands.org
Joyful Life Church
5514 FM 1488, Magnolia, TX
936-273-3979
www.joyfullifemagnolia.org
Lord of Life Lutheran
3801 S. Panther Creek
281-367-7016
www.lolonline.org
Living Word Lutheran
9500 North, Panther Creek Dr.
(Corner Lake Woodlands Dr
& N. Panther Creek)
281-363-4860
www.lwlc.org
Spirit of Joy Lutheran
Church
7550 Crown Ridge
The Woodlands, TX 77382
936-271-0893
www.sojoy.org
METHODIST
Covenant United
Methodist Church
8555 Creekside Green Dr.
Spring, TX 77389
832-510-4823
www.covenantconnects.org

Christ Church
United Methodist
6363 Research Forest Dr.,
The Woodlands, TX 77381
936-273-2030
www.cc-um.org

ORTHODOX
St. Anthony The Great
7202 FM 2920
Spring, TX 77379
281-251-6000
www.stanthonythegreat.org

Faith United Methodist
2403 Rayford Road
Spring, TX 77386-1706
281-367-7776
www.faithumcspring.org

St. Cyril of Jerusalem
Orthodox Church
Father Benedict Crawford
9000 FM 242
The Woodlands, TX 77385
281-298-3232
www.stcyril.us

Wildwood United
Methodist Church
8911 FM 1488
Magnolia, TX
832-934-0100
www.wildwood-umc.org
The Woodlands
Methodist Church
2200 Lake Woodlands Dr.
281-297-5900
info@twmc.org
www.thewoodlandsmethodist.org
NAZARENE
Woodlands Community
Nazarene
5401 Rush Haven
281-364-1000
www.wccnaz.org
NON-DENOMINATIONAL
Immanuel Church of Spring
26501 Border St. & Spring
Cypress Rd.
Spring, TX 77373
281-288-3199
www.immanuelspring.org

St. Jonah Orthodox Church
Priest, Father John Whiteford
2910 Spring Cypress Road
Spring, TX 77388
281-467-0264
www.saintjonah.org
St. Sava Orthodox Church
16900 Cypress Rosehill Rd.
Cypress, TX 77429
281-256-2939
www.stsavahouston.org
PENTECOSTAL
Woodlands Tabernacle
United Pentacostal Church
610 Westridge
281-292-2785
The Pentecostals of The
Woodlands
15833 Old Conroe Rd.
Conroe, TX 77384
936-447-9151
www.morethanchurch.org

Calvary Chapel - Woodlands
Meeting @ McCullough
Jr. High School
3800 S. Panther Creek Dr.
281-419-1401
www.ccthewoodlands.org

PRESBYTERIAN
Alden Bridge Presbyterian
7575 Alden Bridge Dr.
936-321-3298
www.aldenbridgepresbyterianchurch.org

Relentless Global Church
(Love Reigns)
27327 Robinson Rd Oak
Ridge North, Texas 77385
713-936-6848
www.relentlessglobalchurch.org

Grace Presbyterian (P.C.A.)
8989 Woodlands Parkway
281-296-0911
www.gpcwoodlands.org

Grace Community Church
The Woodlands
24400 I-45 N FWY, Spring,
TX 77386
Office- 832-381-2306
www.gracewoodlands.com
Grace Family Church
23007 Cypresswood Dr.,
Spring TX 77373
281-821-4478
www.gfcspring.org
Living Water Church
26910 Aldine Westfield Rd.
Spring, TX 77373
281-292-4166
www.lwcspring.org
New Hope Christian
Fellowship of Spring
Klein Multi Purpose Center
7500 FM 2920
Spring, Texas 77379
832-466-3479
www.NHCFspring.org
Unity of The Woodlands
25817 Gosling
The Woodlands, TX 77389
281-681-8883
www.unityofthewoodlands.org
WhiteStone Faith Church
Meeting at Interfaith of The
Woodlands
4242 Interfaith Way
www.whitestonefaith.com
The Woodlands Bible Church
995 Pinyon Pine
Woodlands, TX 77380
832-458-2007
www.thewoodlandsbc.org

Woodlands Community
Presbyterian
4881 W. Panther Creek
281-363-2040
www.wcpc-tx.org
SPIRIT FILLED
Celebration Church
6565 Research Forest Dr.
The Woodlands, TX
281-978-467
www.woodlandscelebration.com
The Shepherds House
200 Pruitt Road
The Woodlands, TX
281-419-9426
UNITARIAN
Northwoods Unitarian
Universalist
1370 N. Millbend
281-298-2780
www.northwoodsuu.org
UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST
Open Arms UCC
Services held at First Christian
Church Gymnasium
3500 N Loop 336 W
Conroe, TX 77304
832-368-9551
office@openarmsucc.org
www.openarmsucc.org
And they spake unto him the
word of the Lord, and to all
that were in his house. And
he took them the same hour
of the night, and washed
their stripes; and was
baptized, he and all his,
straightway.
Acts 16:32-33 (KJV)

the fact that the coffee
plant was not created for
human consumption. I
accepted the notion thousands of years later after
tasting my first sip of
coffee. I loved the aroma
but hated the taste. I only
tried it to immolate my
dad, who drank the stuff
multiple times every day.
Dad preferred Maxwell
House instant coffee because it was cheap and
easy to make. He would’ve
perked his coffee, but then
he’d have to buy a coffee
percolator to make it. Dad
added sugar and cream to
his coffee, to make it tasteworthy. When I was in
junior high, I asked Mom
if I could make some coffee, and she said the
dumbest thing. “Sure.
Knock yourself out.”
So I did and almost
gagged. How on earth was
my daddy able to drink
this Yuk Dud? But, I
drank all of what I made,
just so I could be like
Daddy. Now my only similarities to my father are my
hair and nose. My hair is
practically gone, and my
nose continues to grow.
I kept toying with coffee, but never once enjoyed
the stuff. It was during my
job at Ben Fosters Pipe
Insulation and Sealer that
I once again tried to drink
coffee, but only because
before going to work and
during our breaks, the
foreman, Jim Smith,
would grab a cup of coffee
and sit down on an upturned five-gallon metal
bucket and wait for the
eight o’clock whistle to
sound. The five other
guys, of which I was one,
grabbed their own cans
and copied the boss. (I’m
referring to the five-gallon
cans.) The cans would
eventually hold different
types of asbestos laced
sealants and other kinds
of pipe goop. But, of a
morning and during our
two breaks, the cans held
the weight of five butts.
During our early morning sitting spell, each guy
drank a cup of coffee. I
poured myself a cup, to
show that I was a real man
just like them. My first
thought after my first sip
of perked coffee was, “This
stuff ain’t bad!” It wasn’t
good, but it was so much
better than Maxwell
House Instant.
Well, I worked in that
factory for four summers,
and by the end of my
employment, I learned to
enjoy the taste of coffee.
I’ve been drinking a few
cups every day since.
I can’t say the same
about cigars and alcohol. I
once drank half of a can of
Budweiser during a movie
shoot. I was playing an old
cranky dad. During one
particular scene, I had to
open a can of beer, down
half of it, and then pretend
that I liked it. It was the
best acting I’ve ever done.
On occasion, my brothers and I will gather
around a fire and smoke
cigars. We do it more in
memory of Dad than anything else. My dad was
addicted to cigars and
chewing tobacco. Uncle
Ray (Kay’s Dad) was addicted to cigarettes. Uncle
Ray was in the Navy during WW II. Cigarette
companies gave the armed
forces train loads of free
cigarettes for the soldiers.
The scheme worked
well. When Kay’s Dad
joined the Navy, he didn’t
care a bit for cigarettes.
But, while on guard duty
at night he tried one, and
before long was hooked. I
imagine, that if given time,
I could’ve become addicted
to any or all of those vices.
My enjoyment of a good
cup of coffee proved that
to me.
I can only hope that you
got something out of the
story of developing a taste
for bad stuff. I could go on
and on, but I see our time
is about up. That, and I’ve
lost two-thirds of my audience. I fear I left a bad
taste in their mouths.
Ouch. — Next time.
Mark Hayter may be reached
at hayter.mark@gmail.com

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A9

THE WOODLANDS VILLAGER

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Knox Junior High coach Chris Ortiz has branched
out into writing children’s books, hosting podcasts
and, most recently, sports recruiting.

STAY where you are appreciated & Earn FREE Rent! LOW LOW RATES! Studio 1,2 & 3
Bedroom units Available w/ FLEXIBLE payment options! Studio units starting at $275.47
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Call: 281-920-1308

NORTH

Woodlands coach,
At Your Service
podcaster starts
sports recruiting gig
for local athletes
Make your spare time family time.

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281-378-1000

BUSINESS HOURS: 8am-5pm, Mon-Fri

STA FF WRIT E R

Junior high coach, podcast host and children’s
book author Chris Ortiz
is tacking a new title onto
his repertoire.
Ortiz, who has been
coaching at The Woodlands’ Knox Junior High
for two decades, recently
conducted some trial interviews for his new
sports recruiting platform, Ultimate Prospect.
The coach aims to help
troubled kids through
sports in and out of
school by advocating for
martial arts programs in
schools, podcasting with
Houston-area
leaders
and writing Houstoncentric children’s books.
“COVID gave a lot of
people an opportunity to
chase the things that
make them happy,” Ortiz
said. “So I started writing
books.”

Connecting with kids

Eighth grader Kherington Andrews doesn’t have
many favorite movies or
musicians; instead, she’s
always moving, whether
in ninja training, pole
vault or basketball.
Andrews competes in
ninja, a timed sport consisting of increasingly
difficult obstacles that
originated in a Japanese
game show in 1997 and
has since expanded into
American Ninja Warrior,
multiple leagues and
world
competitions.
Around a dozen gyms
across Texas host ninja
competitions, including
USA Ninja Challenge Katy,
where
Andrews
trains.
Andrews
started
climbing when her dad
built a rock climbing wall
in her family’s living
room. She hasn’t stopped
since, winning two World
Ninja League World
Championships so far in
her age division.
“I started climbing
around everything in my
house,” Andrews said.
“They decided to take me
to a gym and I just stuck
with it.”
When the 13-year-old
broke her back in 2022,
she was devastated.
During her yearlong
recovery, Ortiz taught
Andrews how to coach
basketball, long jump and
triple jump, Andrews’
mom, Lindsay Andrews,
said. Ortiz follows his
athletes through high
school and college as
their careers progress,
Andrews said.

Making a difference

“He’s had a huge impact in this community,”
Lindsay Andrews said.
“He’s made a world of difference in her life, and I
could name a million kids
that he’s truly (impacted.)
He’s very different than
your average junior high
teacher or coach.”
Andrews has since recovered and broke a longstanding school pole

vault record in her final
year at Knox. As she prepares for her first year of
high school, college recruitment is already on
the horizon, Lindsay Andrews said.
“This has been a whole
new world for me...it
sounds like the process
starts freshman or sophomore year,” Lindsay Andrews said. “We have a lot
of friends who are hitting
that college age, and
watching them and hearing where they’re at,
they’re looking for someone who can do videos of
their kids and help them
with action shots.”

Telling a story

Through a mix of photography and conversational interviews, Ortiz
envisions a studio that
will help bring a more human element into college
sports recruiting. He also
hopes to help kids and
families that may otherwise fall behind in the increasingly competitive recruitment market.
“We can help more athletes get the attention of
these college coaches and
ultimately win them over
with their own hard work
and perseverance. But
you have to get their attention first,” Ortiz said.
“We are going to help
them tell their story in
hopes that they can get
noticed by college recruiters, continue their educational journey and play
the sport that they love.”
The rigors of teaching
and coaching junior high
appear not to affect Ortiz.
He’s written five children’s books, recently upgraded his Be Someone
podcast, where he interviews local martial artists, creatives and community leaders, and competed with his 18-year-old
son in Reality of Wrestling’s ROW Games pilot
April 20.
As a first degree black
belt at Gracie Barra The
Woodlands, he’s also an
advocate for bringing jiujitsu into schools.

‘Athletics is a hook’

“It’s a wonderful community. You have people
that are meeting in the
middle of a ring, and they
want to destroy one another, but that’s it. Afterwards, there’s a hug and
there’s a handshake and
there’s mutual respect,”
Ortiz said. “It’s an amazing thing that I think
most
human
beings
would benefit from.”
Ortiz was an angry kid
who was changed by
sports, especially martial
arts; today, he said he
goes above and beyond
with his athletes because
he sees his former self in
many of them.
“It matters to me because not everyone is academically
motivated,”
Ortiz said. “Athletics is a
hook, and with that hook,
we’re able to reach kids
that we couldn’t reach
any other way.”

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Irrigation Installation
Chris Goldwait, Owner Since 1988 • Insured

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By Claire Partain

Repair

In The Woodlands 30 Years

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(Ask for Gary)

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CORPORATE STRATEGY ANALYST

Americas Styrenics, LLC
The Woodlands, TX
See Below To Apply

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Edu Req/See Below
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Full-Time

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in mergers & acquisitions (domestic & int’l) context & preparation
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Mail or email resumes to Lori McKell, 24 Waterway Ave., Suite
1200, The Woodlands, TX 77380; lmckell@amsty.com

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recruitment@hcnonline.com

ERP SOFTWARE DEVELOPER

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legals@chron.com

Request for Bid
Woodlands Waterway Facilities &
Landscape Maintenance Agreement
C-2024-0334
The Woodlands Township is requesting
bids for the 2025-2027 Woodlands Waterway Facilities & Landscape Maintenance Agreement, C-2024-0334. Vendors may obtain the specifications and
bidding documents at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/bids.
A mandatory pre-bid meeting will be
held at 1:00 pm on Friday, May 31,
2024, at 2801 Technology Forest Blvd.
The Woodlands, TX 77381. Bids are
due by 1:00 pm on Wednesday, June
26, 2024, at this address. For more information contact Trohn Trabona, Town
Center Superintendent at
281.210.3800, or
ttrabona@thewoodlands-tx.gov.

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A10 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

A

THE WOODLANDS VILLAGER

THE WOODLANDS VILLAGER

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A11

A12 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

THE WOODLANDS VILLAGER

!

Look
Lookfor
foryour
yourgrocery
grocerycoupons
couponsinside!
inside!

YOURWOODLANDSNEWS.COM

•

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

• VOL. 46, NO. 53

•

50 CENTS

MONTHS

NE

1273

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Memorial
yourmemorialnews.com

SERVING THE
COMMUNITY SINCE

YOURMEMORIALNEWS.COM

•

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

2003
• VOL. 21, NO. 20

•

50 CENTS

AN EDITION OF

The Pit Room

A barbecue spread from the Pit Room, a Montrose-based restaurant that has opened a second location in the Memorial area.

MEET THE NEW
NEIGHBOR
The Pit Room’s expansion to Memorial gives
Central Texas-style barbecue a larger stage
By Bao Ong
STA FF WRIT E R

The Pit Room, one of the top barbecue joints within Houston’s inner
Loop, opened a second location last
week at 10301-A Katy Freeway in the
Memorial City area.
After a long-awaited debut the
past few years, customers will finally find the restaurant’s Central Texas-style barbecue — including brisket, ribs, sausages and tacos —

served for lunch and dinner in a
much larger space, with two 26-footlong bars.
“Joining the Memorial City community is an exciting next step as we
expand the Pit Room’s signature offerings,” said Michael Sambrooks,
founder of Sambrooks Hospitality,
in a prepared statement.
Sambrooks’ restaurant group,
which also runs Tex-Mex favorite
Candente and modern steakhouse
Andiron, opened the Pit Room in

2016.
The original Montrose restaurant
on Richmond has regularly been featured on various lists of leading barbecue joints in the state.
Design firm KT Ventures and
Philip Ewald Architecture worked
on the new space together, which
spans more than 6,300 square feet
inside. A sprawling outdoor patio also features one of the Pit Room’s
bars. Sarah Crowl, who’s worked at
Better Luck Tomorrow and Colti-

ECONOMY

INFRASTRUCTURE

ECONOMIC
IMPACT

A NEW
BEGINNING

Study: Houston-area
Latinos have played an
outsized role in growing
the region’s economy.

Mayor John Whitmire
used a repaving project by
Metro along Westheimer
as sign of improvement.

PAGE A3

PAGE A4

vare, led the beverage program.
The larger space is also home to a
new homemade ice cream sandwich
station and a market selling the Pit
Room’s line of bottled sauces (flavors
include barbecue, house mustard
and coffee bourbon) and spices (such
as rubs for poultry and pork).
A forthcoming dinner menu will
also feature chicken tenders, brisket
egg rolls, burgers, steaks and more,
according to the Pit Room’s announcement.

A2 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

EXAMINER

ADVICE
HOME IMPROVEMENT

Zinsser hits the spot for antique furniture
Many of my
customers have
furniture from
their parents or
relatives that
mean so much
Trudy
to them. It
Chuoke
might have been
Mom’s dressing
H AP PY
H A N DYMA N
table, or Dad’s
bedside table
and just looking at them brings
back many memories. I have a
few things that I have kept
from my late husband, and I
just like having them in the
house...a sweet remembrance
of the time we had together.
But sometimes the furniture
pieces that you get from your
family have been in storage. I
have this friend who collected
from her mom’s estate. The
furniture and clothing had
been stored in a barn. A very

stinky barn. And the furniture
had adsorbed all the odor.
She told me about all the
different things she tried before
coming to me. She tried airing
it out, she put charcoal in the
drawers, she cleaned it with a
degreaser, but the furniture
smelled so bad she couldn’t
keep it in the house. So she
asked me for help.
Zinsser makes great primers.
Primers for sheetrock that is
crumbling, primers for peeling
paint and a primer for odor.
Older furniture is made so well,
all wood no composite or laminates and that old wood can be
a sponge absorbing odors.
Odor Killing Primer can be
painted on a surface, and it will
seal in the offensive smell. My
friend sealed all the drawers
and the inside of the drawer.
Then she wanted to put a new

finish on the outside of the
furniture, and I suggested Varathane. Her pieces now made
their way into the house.
Another way to use Zinsser
is on kitchen cabinets. If you
had smoke damage from a
kitchen fire and nothing gets
rid of the odor in the cabinets.
You don’t have to have your
whole kitchen torn down. Try
Zinsser first. I used it on my
kitchen cabinets because the
previous owner was a smoker.
That smoke permeated into the
cabinets and when I would
leave for a trip and come backthe whole house had this lingering smell like someone had
been smoking inside my house.
When I finally figured out
what was causing the odor…..I
used Zinsser. All I had to do
was seal the inside of all the
cabinets, and there was no

lingering odor when I returned
from the trip. And this primer
goes on milky so you can see
where you have applied the
primer and then dries clear.

Now to some great
email…..

Question: After listening
to your Saturday afternoon
show on WOAI, I have decided to remove the silicone
caulk in my shower. So how
can I remove the caulk and
what caulk would you suggest that I replace for the
silicone?
Answer: Contractor’s DeSolv-It is great for removing
silicone caulk. First, use a single edged razor blade to cut the
caulk right down the middlw
and along each side. Then
spray the caulk with De-Solv-It.
Spray every 15 minutes for an

hour. Then re-caulk with Sashco Sealant Clean Seal. It has a
7-year guarantee to resist mildew. Allow 48 hours to cure.
Question: I have slippery
steps on a small outdoor
deck. I know that you paint
them with a texture paint,
but I love the color of the
deck and I don’t want to
change that – so is there
something else that is not an
abrasive tread.
Answer: Absolutely yes!
There is a tread that is soft to
the touch but will provide traction and a safe step. They are
called Handi Treads. I like
them because they are translucent and don’t stand out on the
deck. You can use Handi
Treads on wet surfaces also like
in the tub and shower.
www.happyhandyman.com

HEALTH CARE

Medicare enrollment process explained
Toni: I need
to make the
right Medicare
decision because I turn 65
in August and
have
not had a
Toni
health plan for
King
2 years. I do
M E D ICA RE
not know
ADV IC E
where to start
or what to do.
My friends are advising me if
I do not sign up for Medicare
when I turn 65, I will be making a major Medicare mistake.
Can you please simplify the
Medicare enrollment process?
Thanks, Toni
Cynthia, Alvin

Hi Cynthia: Medicare is exploding with an American turning 65 every 8 seconds.
The Medicare basics America
needs to know are:

1) Remember to enroll at the

right time:

a) Turning 65 and receiving
your Social Security check, your
“Welcome to Medicare” kit will
be mailed to you with your
Medicare card 90 days before
you turn 65.
b) Turning 65 and NOT receiving your Social Security check and
not working full time with true
employer group health insurance from either you or your
spouse’s work, you may want to
enroll in Medicare Parts A and
B online via www.ssa.gov.
c) Turning 65, working full-time
with “true” employer group health
insurance whether through your
or your spouse’s employer benefits may want to delay enrolling
in Medicare until you or your
spouse retire or are laid off.

2) Medicare is not free

Medicare covers a lot and
there is a cost associated with
Medicare Parts A and B. The

premium for Part A is at no cost
if you worked 10 years or 40
quarters and paid Medicare
taxes. Medicare Part B has a
premium which is means-tested
depending on your annual income. In 2024, most Medicare
beneficiaries pay $174.70 each
month for their Part B premium. Medicare Part A (hospital)
deductible for 2024 is $1,632, not
once a year but is every 60 days
or 6 times a year. The 2024
Medicare Part B deductible is
$240 once a year with Medicare
paying 80% of the Medicareapproved amount and you paying the remaining 20%.

3) Learn the different
Medicare Parts (A, B, C and
D)
Original Medicare is Medicare Parts A and B which covers hospital, medical and provider expenses. Medicare Part
C, known as Medicare Ad-

vantage plan, is another way of
receiving your Medicare benefits. Part D is the Medicare
Prescription Drug plan that can
be a stand-alone plan with Original Medicare and a Medicare
Supplement, or with a Medicare
Advantage plan that includes a
prescription drug plan.

4) “Original” Medicare

Original Medicare Parts A
and B have no network. Medicare Part A covers in-patient
hospital, skilled nursing/rehab
facility, home health and hospice care. Medicare Part B covers doctor services whether at
the office or surgical care, outpatient surgery/services, lab/Xrays, MRIs, durable medical
equipment, and preventative
services.

5) Medicare Advantage Plan
(MAPD)
You must be enrolled in Orig-

inal Medicare to qualify for a
Medicare Advantage Plan and
can select various Medicare
Advantage plans (Medicare Part
C) such as an HMO or PPO
plans that are offered by private
insurance companies. A MAPD
plan has an insurance provider
network with health care professionals or facilities that provide lower in-network rates.
You do not use your Medicare
(red, white, and blue) card because Medicare will pay the
MAPD plan for your care. You
will have co-pays, deductibles
and maximum out-of-pocket
costs associated with your
medical care.
Confused about Medicare Workshop in Katy is “Live” Thursday,
May 23 at 6 p.m. at Spring Creek
BBQ-Katy, 21000 Katy Frwy,
Katy, TX. 77449. RSVP:832/5198664 or visit www.tonisays.com.
Dinner not included.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A3

EXAMINER

Area Latinos play big economic role

Buc-ee’s touted for pay

Study finds demographic group responsible
for about two-thirds of regional GDP growth

By Richard Webner

By Jhair Romero
STAFF WRIT E R

Houston-area Latinos
have played an outsized
role in growing the region’s economy in recent
years, according to a
study published this
week.
From 2018 to 2021, Latinos were responsible for
68.3% of the metropolitan
area’s gross domestic
product growth despite
making up about 40% of
the population.
The study, funded by
Bank of America, found
the share of Latinos in the
Houston metro’s labor
force grew by 39% from
2010 to 2021, compared to
only 14% for non-Latinos
in the same period. Researchers from California
Lutheran University and
UCLA’s Center for the
Study of Latino Health
and Culture produced the
analysis.
“Those increased numbers have allowed the region to grow and prosper,
and jobs have been
brought to these areas
and businesses,” said
longtime Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce President Laura
Murillo. She added that
Houston suburbs with
growing Latino populations, such as Katy and
Spring, are some of the
biggest beneficiaries of
the growth.
Researchers cited the
Houston area’s young Latino population to explain the economic boost
in recent years. (About a
third of the city’s Hispanic population is under 18,
and 43% is between 18 and
44, according to the University of Houston’s Hobby School of Public Affairs.)

Elizabeth Conley/Staff photographer

Birds fly by as people watch the Houston skyline as the sun sets on Monday,
March 6, 2023 in Houston.

The Cal Lutheran and
UCLA study said the metro’s coming-of-age Latinos are “overwhelmingly” second- and thirdgeneration Americans,
and the number of Latinos with a bachelor’s degree grew at a rate 2.9
times that of non-Latinos
from 2010-21.
These shifts, though
more evident in the
Houston area, have also
played out on larger
scales despite the disproportionately high mortality rates Latinos faced in
the first years of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The study said that in
2021, Latinos contributed
$581.2 billion to the Texas
economy, with the top
sectors being finance and
real estate, government,
professional and business services, mining and
quarrying, and construction.
And across the country, the Latino popula-

tion’s total economic output in 2021 was $3.2 trillion. The Latino GDP
grew by 7.1% that year,
about 2% more than that
of non-Latinos.
Murillo said she hopes
studies like this will influence how companies,
from small businesses to
large corporations, market toward and hire Latino consumers and workers. The purchasing power of U.S. Latinos reached
$3.4 trillion in 2021, according to an Arizona
State University study
published last year.
“I can’t imagine there’s
a corporation that can afford to overlook 45% of
the demographic,” she
said, referring to Latinos’
large share of Houston’s
population. “And these
are not anecdotal stories.
These are hard facts. It’s
data.”
A recent census data
release revealed that the
Houston
metropolitan

area grew by almost
140,000 last year, with
Harris County accounting for more than a third
of that growth.
Although the U.S. Census Bureau won’t release
more detailed demographic information —
such as population by
age, sex, race and Hispanic origin — until this summer, the data shows much
of the county’s population growth was fueled
by international migration.
More than 41,100 immigrants moved to Harris
County last year, second
in the country only to
Florida’s
Miami-Dade
County. We won’t know
exactly how much Latinos contributed to that
population growth until
June, but Murillo sees a
clear trend.
“As go Hispanics, so
goes Houston,” Murillo
said. “And the rest of the
country for that matter.”

EVs make list of Houston area’s best-selling
By Nusaiba Mizan

HOUSTON AREA’S
BEST-SELLING VEHICLES

STA FF WRIT E R

Two all-electric vehicles, both
from Tesla, became the first of their
kind to rank among the Houston
area’s bestselling models last year, according to Houston-based InfoNation Inc.
Tesla’s Model Y SUV debuted on
the list at No. 10 while the Model 3
made its first appearance at No. 18.
More than 5,000 of the Model Y and
4,000 Model 3s were sold last year.
Tesla cut the prices of both in 2023.
RoShelle Salinas, executive vice
president of the Houston Automobile
Dealers Association, called the rising
popularity of electric vehicles “exciting to see for the first time for us.”
“They’ve got plenty of variety to
choose from, which makes it easier to
commit to an electric vehicle — along
with partners like the energy providers and groups like Evolve Houston,
and the different apps and charging
stations,” Salinas said.
InfoNation’s ranking uses state
Department of Motor Vehicle records
from Harris and nine surrounding

1. Ford F-150 pickup (14,934 sales)
2. Chevrolet Silverado 1500 pickup
(10,252)
3. Toyota RAV4 SUV (9,002)
Kirk Sides/Staff photographer

4. Toyota Camry (8,397)

The Ford F-150 pickup truck was
the top-selling vehicle model in
the Houston region in 2023,
according to sales data compiled
Houston-based InfoNation Inc.

5. Nissan Rogue SUV (7,552)

counties.
It will surprise no one that the region’s top-selling vehicles are pickups. The Ford F-150 topped the list in
2022 and 2023, while the Chevrolet
Silverado 1500 was second both
years. Pickups occupied four of the
top 10 spots.
Sales of both models, however, declined in the Houston area and nationally, InfoNation wrote in its report. Nearly 15,000 F-150s and 10,000
Silverado 1500s were sold in the region in 2023.
In Houston, two SUVs jumped in-

10. Tesla Model Y SUV (5,870)

6. Honda CR-V SUV (6,739)
7. Ram 1500 pickup (6,693)
8. Mazda CX-5 SUV (6,182)
9. Toyota Tundra pickup (5,889)

to the top 10: The Honda CR-V rose to
sixth from No. 18 in 2022 while the
Mazda CX-5 jumped to eighth from
No. 22. SUVs grabbed five of the top10
spots.
“You get what you need as a higher-level vehicle, especially in the high
waters that we can sometimes see in
Houston,” Salinas said. “You can fit
your family, and all of their sporting
equipment.”
Among sedans, the Toyota Camry
was the top choice at No. 4.

C O N TRI B U TO R

Buc-ee’s comes in first
place worldwide for the
size of its convenience
stores and length of its car
washes. It also ranks high
for employee salaries, according to a recent study.
The Texas-based gas
station chain ranks fifth
among U.S. retailers for
entry-level salaries with
an average starting wage
of $18.18 an hour, according to the study by Business Insider, which is
based on data provided by
the workplace review site
Glassdoor.
The outdoor apparel
company Patagonia came
in first with an average
wage of $21.88, followed by
recreational equipment
retailer REI with $18.88.
Costco and IKEA came in
third and fourth, with
wages of $18.57 and $18.50,
respectively.
The yoga apparel company Lululemon ranked
sixth with an average
wage of $18, according to
the study.
At a starting wage of
$18.18, a full-time worker
at Buc-ee’s would earn
gross pay of about $37,800.
That’s well below the median annual salary in Texas, which was was $68,744
in 2023, according to data
from the Bureau of Labor
Statistics.
In signs posted at its
stores, Buc-ee’s has adver-

tised starting wages of $16
an hour for cashiers, grocery stockers and other
entry-level employees; $19
for food service and car
wash workers; and between $23 and $31 for department managers.
And in recent years,
Buc-ee’s has often attracted attention for its
high wages compared
with some other workplaces. General managers
at its convenience stores
can
make
between
$150,000 and $225,000, for
example.
Retail wages have generally been increasing in
recent years as they compete to attract employees
in a tight labor market.
Last year, for example,
Walmart boosted its starting wages to $14 an hour
from $12 an hour. Now, according to ZipRecruiter,
the average wage for Walmart employees in Texas
at the end of April was
$22.37 an hour. That
topped the average wage
at Buc-ee’s, the hiring
website said, where the
average this month is
$21.05.
Lake
Jackson-based
Buc-ee’s was born and
grew in Texas but in recent years has expanded
into other states. It now
has 49 locations, including stores in Alabama,
Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Missouri,
South Carolina and Tennessee.

Michael Miller/San Antonio Express-News

Shoppers browse the selection during at Buc-ee’s in
Luling.

A4 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

EXAMINER

Whitmire cheers Westheimer overhaul
By Dug Begley
STAFF WRIT E R

Calling it “a new beginning”
for improving infrastructure,
Mayor John Whitmire used a repaving project by Metro along
Westheimer to declare more
work is coming to city streets.
“People complain and know
we can do better with our
streets,” the mayor said, standing in front of a row of workers.
“We are not going to tolerate our
broken infrastructure.”
As a result, he said drivers
should expect to see workers on
a lot of neglected streets,
smoothing them and addressing
what he said were unacceptable
conditions.
Tackling the miles of broken
curbs, pocked streets, cracked
concrete, burst pipes and crumbling drainage, however, will
take much more than just the
city’s resources, the mayor said.
“We are going to look at all the
options for how to pay for it,” he
said, noting the city’s other
looming fiscal challenges.
Along Westheimer, it is Metropolitan Transit Authority
footing the bill for more than
$12.2 million worth of work. Officials added $2.3 million earlier
this year to planned improvements along the street related to
new bus stops and repaving.
“The original plan was to have
metro put a Band-Aid on the bus
lane,” Metro chairwoman Elizabeth Gonzalez Brock said.
The additional work repaves
two stretches of Westheimer
from Loop 610 to west of near
Wesleyan, and then from Montrose east to Bagby. By adding
the repaving, Metro is allowing
the city to delay a more substantial redesign and rebuild of lower Westheimer that would have
narrowed the street east of Montrose.
Brock called moving to a single project a better use of resources, defending the use of
transit agency money for road
work.
“We should be looking at it as
the taxpayers’ money, and how
can we use the taxpayers’ money
to meet those needs,” she said,
noting the bus stops and im-

Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer

Construction workers working at 3800 block of Westheimer Road. The Westheimer improvement project will improve bus stops
and repair pavement on a six-mile stretch of Westheimer Road from Loop 610 to downtown.

proved street directly benefits
bus riders.
Metro and the city are working closely to make sure construction solves many issues
along Westheimer, from drainage to pavement condition, said
Tom Jasien, the transit agency’s
interim CEO.
That coordination is important to keep all traffic moving, including a lot of bus riders. The
Route 82 service along Westheimer is Metro’s busiest bus
route, with a ridership higher
than every other transit route in
the region except for the Red
Line light rail through downtown. Along the entire route,
Metro officials plan to spend
$46.2 million on various improvements to bus stops and
curbs – as well as the street and

some drainage along it.
The work, part of Metro’s
long-range plan that voters approved in 2019, is one of three socalled BOOST corridor initiatives that bundled improvements along major routes with
the overall goal of making the entire route better for passengers.
Work continues along the 56
Airline/Montrose and 54 Scott
bus routes as well. In addition,
similar projects continue to upgrade bus shelters around the
Houston region and add traffic
signal prioritization, where warranted, along bus routes so buses can avoid red lights if a couple
extra seconds of green would let
them pass by.
Whitmire cheered the work
along Westheimer as commonsense improvements, which im-

prove not only bus service but
the conditions of some of the
city’s most-used streets. He said
building on that collaboration
will be important for the city to
get its infrastructure in order,
citing the need to tap federal,
state and Harris County funds to
maximize what the city can
spend.
“It is cost-effective to work together,” Whitmire said.
The focus on fixing streets,
however, comes as some clash
with the city’s reluctance to
move forward on some planned
projects. Shortly after residents
complained of tree loss along
Montrose related to a drainage
and street project, sponsored by
the Montrose TIRZ, Whitmire’s
team halted the permit process.
City officials also paused con-

struction of a portion of Shepherd and Durham over what
they said was the removal of a
vehicle lane in order to widen
sidewalks for cyclists and pedestrians.
Meanwhile, Metro, with new
Whitmire-appointed members,
is touting the new Westheimer
work while slowing the public
process of its other ongoing
long-range projects. Parts of Metro’s web page detailing its three
bus rapid transit projects, currently under design, were removed last week.
“Since most of the new board
members haven’t had a chance to
review the proposed projects,
we wanted to pause items that
appear to be advocacy,” Jasien
said when asked about the removal.

EXAMINER

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A5

A6 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

EXAMINER

Report:
Houston is
one of
world’s top
cities for
millionaires
By Erica Grieder
STAF F WRI TE R

At Your Service

TO ADVERTISE: Call 281-378-1000
BUSINESS HOURS: 8am-5pm, Mon-Fri
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dba Leven Baking Company
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713-298-8393
www.smart-improvements.com
Other

Ed pref/See Below
Yrs exp/See Below
Full-Time

Lead Production Baker: 4220 Restaurant Group, LLC dba Leven
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ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER

Boucher Design Group, LLC
Bellarie, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

Generate innovative design concepts that meet client needs
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docs for permitting & construction. Prep architectural deliverables
on projects. Review submittals & finish samples, conduct site visits,
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Provide tech expertise & guidance to project team to ensure
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SOFTWARE ANALYSTS

Insured,
References

Ed pref/See Below
Yrs exp/See Below
Full-Time

Academy, Ltd. D/B/A Academy Sports + Outdoors has an opening
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Computer Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related engineering field and 48 months of experience developing within a Business
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recruiter@academy.com referencing job code 10129. Incl. complete
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The Annual tax return for the Morillon
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THE FOLLOWING VEHICLES ARE BEING
STORED AT US 69 ENTERPRISE 11356
Eastex Fwy, Houston, TX 77093 IF YOU
HAVE ANY INTEREST PLEASE CALL 281227-1550.
NEWSPAPER NOTICE
C4040161 2017 CHEVROLET SILVERADO
RCH4485 (TX) 3GCPCREC3HG377460
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX C4040150
2012 CHEVROLET CAMARO SGM0149
(TX) 2G1FB1E31C9201339 TWD FRM
11358 EASTEX C4040152 2024 NISSAN
KICKS TPK6106 (TX)
3N1CP5CV7RL474253 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX FRWY C4040153 2003 CHEVROLET TRACKER HMZ1586 (TX)
2CNBE13C036919591 TWD FRM 113258
EASTEX C4040154 2018 INFINITI QX80
PXG0027 (TX) 5N1DL0MN2JC518217
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX FRWY
C4040210 2005 MINI COOPER PRJ5112
(TX) WMWRC33515TJ69986 TWD FRM
11358 EASTEX C4040256 2008 CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER 424CRZ (LA)
1GNDS13S082262039 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX FRWY
2004 MOTORCYCLE
LW0XCGLCX40023035 NO PLATE
C4040259 2020 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER SVF3009 (TX) JA4AD3A36LZ044081
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX C4040275 1981
MERCEDES BENZ 300SD CDX36C (TX)
WDBCB20A4BB13013 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX C4040283 2014 HONDA CR-V
DHH4043 (TX) 2HKRM3H30EH518549
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX C4040303
2019 RAM 1500 RKN7112 (TX)
1C6RRELT2KN724253 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX C4040305 2009 NISSAN ALTIMA CT5L038 (TX) 1N4AL21E29N489167
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX C4040306
2014 DODGE JOURNEY TONLY04 (TX)
3C4PDCBG8ET126650 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX C4040307 2017 HYUNDAI TUCSON TJL3347 (TX)
KM8JU3AC6CU468570 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX C4040308 2006 TOYOTA AVALON NMB4459 (TX)
4T1BK36B46U091753 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX
FINAL NEWSPAPER NOTICE
C4030387 2017 FORD FUSION PCX8805
(TX) 3FA6P0LU7HR384798 TWD FRM
11358 EASTEX FRWY C4030388 2018
DODGE JOURNEY STW8269 (TX)
3C4PDDEG8JT353462 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX FRWY C4030411 2013 KIA RIO
KHP1017 (TX) KNADN4A3XD6233757
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX FRWY
C4030412 2019 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER PYV8594 (TX) JA4AD3A30KZ049694
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX FRWY
C4030413 2015 CHEVROLET CRUZE
FWC4376 (TX) 1G1PC5SB6F7188551 TWD
FRM 11358 EASTEX FRWY
Correction for ad 34330771.
THE FOLLOWING VEHICLES ARE BEING
STORED AT US 69 ENTERPRISE 11356
Eastex Fwy, Houston, TX 77093 IF YOU
HAVE ANY INTEREST PLEASE CALL 281227-1550.
NEWSPAPER NOTICE
C4040301 2004 MOTORCYCLE NO
PLATE (TX) LW0XCGLCX40023035 TWD
FRM 8012 BELTWAY 8 C4040362 2024
TOYOTA COROLLA TZR1534 (TX)
5YFS4MCE2RP186588 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX FRWY C4040363 2011 TOYOTA
CAMRY DMN1461 (TX)
2T1BU4EE3BC616325 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX C4040388 2014 CHEVROLET
EQUINOX TWZ7787 (TX)
1GNALBEK4EZ135025 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX FRWY C4040398 2013 HONDA
ACCORD TKY2935 (TX)
1HGCT1B81DA010955 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX C4040404 2014 JEEP CHEROKEE TCC2862 (TX) 1C4PJLDXEW118490
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX C4040430 2015
FORD FOCUS RKL1130 (TX)
1FADP3F22FL244947 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX
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(TX) 5XXGT4L38KG285843 TWD FRM
11358 EASTEX C4040062 2014 NISSAN
SENTRA MMT4448 (TX)
3N1AB7APEY252245 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX C4040063 2015 NISSAN ALTIMA NPN6927 (TX) 1N4AL3AP0FN403132
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX C4040065
2006 PONTIAC TORRENT PCW1368 (TX)
2CKDL73F166067250 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX
The following vehicles were towed to and
may be retrieved @ 1700 Brittmoore Rd.
Houston, Texas 77043
713-468-4242. VSF#:0000516
2012 WABASH 1JJV532D4CL716581
$5301.01
1999 LEXUS JT8BH28FXX0164371
$466.40
2022 FORD 1FDXE4FN0NDC03282
$441.66
2014 NISSAN 1N4AL3AP9EX423048
$441.66
2017 NISSAN 3N1AB7AP8HY345736
$392.19
2014 CHEVY 1G1PC5SB5E7417901
$416.93
2005 KAWASAKI KZT00AE105535
$392.19
2011 CHEVY 1G1ZB5E1XBF235580
$392.19

Houston is among the
world’s wealthiest cities,
with the number of millionaire residents here
soaring during the past 10
years, according to a new
analysis.
There are 90,900 millionaire
residents
in
Houston, according to an
annual report from Henley & Partners, a Londonbased investment migration consultancy. According to that metric, Houston is the fifth-wealthiest
city in the United States
and 17th in the world, just
above the canton of Zurich, in Switzerland.
Houston is also home to
258 centimillionaires —
those with a net worth of
at least $100 million — and
18 billionaires, according
to Henley & Partners. The
consultancy
advises
wealthy individuals on
migration decisions.
New York City and the
San Francisco Bay Area
lead the world when it
comes to collecting millionaires, with about
350,000 in New York and
306,000 in the Bay Area.
Tokyo ranks third, with
about 298,000 millionaires.
Tokyo is among several
world cities where the
number of millionaires
has declined over the past
10 years, the report notes.
But the number of has
soared in many cities
across the Sun Belt. Houston saw a 70% increase in
local millionaires from
2013 to 2023, Dallas saw a
75% increase, and in Austin the number of millionaires has more than doubled to 32,700, according
to the report. The Texas
capital is America’s top
city in terms of millionaire growth.
“Taxes are quite low in
states such as Texas and
Florida, so that’s probably
a major driver of the recent millionaire growth in
these states,” said Andrew Amoils, head of research at New World
Wealth and a contributor
to the report.
He added that Houston
could continue to attract
and create more millionaires within city limits.
“Strong growth in highvalue sectors sector such
as high tech, tourism,
green
tech,
fintech,
wealth management, and
family offices and engineering will be key,” he
said. “Also, if Houston is
able to get more Fortune
500 companies to move
their headquarters to the
city, that would significantly boost wealth held
in the city.”
Despite ranking on
Henley & Partners’ list of
wealthiest cities, Houston
does not appear on the
firm’s list of the world’s
most expensive cities, a
striking dynamic that has
helped fuel the region’s
population growth, according to experts, The
median income in Houston is about $60,000 a
year, compared with a national median of about
$75,000.
Henley & Partners’
rankings are drawn from
its in-house database of
more than 150,000 highnet-worth individuals, as
well as public databases
and other sources. The
firm does not disclose the
names of people in its
database.
“For the purposes of
this report, ‘wealth’ refers
to an individual’s liquid
investable wealth, which
only includes listed company holdings, cash holdings, and debt-free residential property holdings,” said Sarah Nicklin,
head of public relations
for Henley & Partners.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A7

EXAMINER

HEALTH

Intermittent fasting has its risks
Q: I read a recent headline
that said people who fast
intermittently have an increased risk of heart disease.
Is there merit
to this story?
A: Intermittent fasting is an
increasingly
common weightloss strategy. The
two most comDr. Keith
mon approaches
Roach
of intermittent
TO YOU R
fasting are alG O OD
H E ALT H
ternate-day
fasting (eating
nothing one day, then whatever
you want the next) and timerestricted feeding (eating at certain times in the day, usually in
an eight-hour time frame).
The published data on the
benefits of these diets show
short-term weight loss (i.e., 12
weeks), but no long-term weight
loss (one year), compared to
standard dietary advice.
There is evidence of potential
harm from intermittent fasting.
Studies have shown an increased
risk of eating disorders (particularly binge eating). One study
showed that disordered eating
worsened in those assigned to an
intermittent fasting schedule.
However, other studies do not
show this.
The concern for disordered
eating is highest among younger
and female populations, who are
most at risk for eating disorders,
and I advise against intermittent
fasting for a person with a history of an eating disorder.
The study you read about was
presented as an abstract in the
March meeting of the American
Heart Association; it is not yet
published or peer-reviewed. But
it did show that people who
report an intermittent-fasting
diet (specifically those who ate
over an eight-hour time frame)
were at a higher risk for death
from heart disease than those
who ate over a 12-16 hour time
frame.
However, this wasn’t a controlled study, and it is likely that
people who chose a time-restricted eating pattern already
had issues that put them at a
higher risk for heart disease.
Still, given the absence of
long-term benefits, I don’t generally recommend a time-restricted diet or intermittent fasting to
my patients.
My colleagues in weight medicine consider intermittent fasting
to be an option that helps a subset of people. There are some
people who do benefit from this
type of diet, and as long as they

Getty Images

The idea behind intermittent fasting is that brief periods of little to no caloric intake will help you lose weight, influence your
metabolism, help your circadian biology (sleep cycles) and enhance the gut microbiome.

are eating well and are being
monitored by their physician,
they should continue to follow
their diet if it is working for
them.
Q: As a person who has had
vocal cord paralysis after a
viral infection, I was fortunate not to need many of the
outlined modes of care. However, there was one additional
therapy that was utilized
within my plan of care —
speech therapy. It took a
while, but it worked well.
I suppose I may have some
lingering weakness. When I
experience a new viral upper
respiratory infection, I often
experience prolonged hoarseness. So, I pull out my exercise sheet once again, practice
the techniques and experience the same great results.
A: I thank the reader for
writing, as I should have recommended voice therapy for people
with vocal cord paralysis, as well
as those with other voice issues.
Some ear, nose and throat
physicians, speech-language
pathologists, respiratory therapists and voice coaches specialize in voice therapy.
Q: I read last year that

nearly 20 million Americans
were living with long COVID,
but I understand that the
number is much higher now.
Can you explain exactly what
long COVID is and how it is
treated?
A: Persistent symptoms after
an infection are not unique to
COVID. Many people will have
cough or asthma exacerbations
for weeks or even months after
a bad flu infection.
Likewise, many people have
symptoms (relating to many
different body systems) after
recovering from COVID. The
Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention and the World
Health Organization differ on
the amount of time after an
infection that has to pass for it
to be considered “long COVID”
— four weeks and three
months, respectively.
The most common physical
symptoms of long COVID are
fatigue, shortness of breath and
muscle aches. In one study of
people who survived the initial
wave of COVID, 45% had at
least one persistent physical
symptom.
The most common and persistent neurological/psychological symptoms are anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress

disorder and cognition problems (“brain fog”). Up to 25% of
COVID survivors had one of
these symptoms after their
physical recovery. This was
higher than other respiratory
viruses, such as influenza.
For those who required a stay
in the intensive care unit, over
75% had physical, psychological
or cognitive symptoms after
their discharge. These survivors
are at the highest risk for prolonged and severe long-COVID
symptoms.
There are many hypotheses
for the underlying cause of
long-COVID symptoms, and
although there is some evidence, it’s not clear whether
there is one single cause or
whether multiple mechanisms
are possible.
I wish I could get better results from the available treatments. Essentially, we treat each
patient’s concerns the same way
we would if the person hadn’t
had COVID. Emphasis on sleep,
nutrition and exercise are critical. But we should still recognize that many people with long
COVID have symptoms that are
very similar to myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome. As such, exercise should
not be overdone, since this can

worsen post-exertional symptoms.
Q: Do MRI tests, especially
of the head, contribute to
hearing loss even when earplugs are used?
A: MRI scans are very loud,
and exposure to loud noises can
cause hearing loss. However, it’s
the prolonged and repeated
exposure to loud noises that is
most likely to cause hearing
damage, so MRI scans are not
likely to be a problem. Earplugs
are still a good idea, though.
There is nothing about the
strong magnetic field in an MRI
machine that adversely affects
hearing. They just make a lot of
noise due to the moving electrical coils. Some machines can
cause levels up to 110 decibels —
as loud as a rock concert.
New MRI technology is coming that will dramatically reduce
the amount of noise made during a scan.
Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable
to answer individual letters, but
will incorporate them in the column
whenever possible. Readers may
email questions to ToYourGood
Health@med.cornell.edu or send
mail to 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803.

NAC supplement helped reader stop nail biting
sweetened beverages (European
Journal of Endocrinology, Jan. 3,
2024).
Others who would like to
learn more about this approach
can find further details along
with information on medications in our “eGuide to Acne
Solutions.” This online resource
is located under the Health
eGuides tab at Peoples
Pharmacy.com.

JOE AND TERESA
GRAEDON
PE OPLE ’S PHA RMACY

Q: I’ve been a nail-biter
since I was a kid. The only
way I had nice nails was to
spend a fortune at a salon.
When I learned that NAC
(N-acetylcysteine) is known
to help with BFRBs, bodyfocused repetitive behaviors,
such as nail biting, hair pulling or skin picking, I decided
to try it. After a few months
of taking this supplement, I
had beautiful, natural fingernails for the first time in my
entire life. A most welcome
extra benefit of NAC for me
is that I have absolutely no
desire for alcohol and my
appetite and craving for unhealthy foods are just gone.
My primary care doc is
fairly progressive, but he
knew nothing about NAC
other than its use in the
emergency room to reverse
acetaminophen overdose. He
gave me the stamp of approval after seeing the changes in
me. I take several supplements, but this one has had
the most profound and positive change in my overall
health.
A: Thank you so much for a
fascinating testimonial. As your
doctor told you, NAC is “the
mainstay of therapy for acet-

LWA-Dann Tardif/Getty Images

Very little research has been conducted on the use of N-acetylcysteine supplements to treat
body-focused repetitive behaviors, such as nail biting or hair pulling.

aminophen toxicity” (StatPearls,
Feb. 19, 2023). The Food and
Drug Administration approved
it for this indication in 1985.
There is far less research on
its use to control body-focused
repetitive behaviors with a compulsive component, such as nail
biting or hair pulling. A review
of the research noted that only a
few clinical trials of NAC for this
purpose have been conducted
(International Journal of Environmental Research and Public
Health, May 2022).

We haven’t seen any studies
showing that NAC can reduce
the urge for alcohol or junk
food. However, a small study in
Indonesia demonstrated that it
helped men stop smoking (Cureus, Feb. 16, 2024).
NAC has a good safety profile.
It may cause nausea, vomiting or
diarrhea, and occasionally, people develop reactions such as a
rash or flushing. Headache,
hives or fever may occur at the
high doses used to treat acetaminophen toxicity (American

Family Physician, Aug. 1, 2009).
Q: My 16-year-old daughter
had terrible acne. She gave
up sugar, dairy and gluten,
and her acne disappeared
within six weeks. She has
beautiful skin now.
A: It sounds like your daughter found a great solution. Studies show that avoiding milk and
other dairy products can be
helpful for those with acne (Nutrients, Oct. 17, 2023). It also
makes sense to avoid sugar-

Q: I have a question about
the amount of elemental zinc
that would be safe to take per
day. My supplement has 7
milligrams of elemental zinc
per tablet. When I looked it
up, the American Academy of
Family Physicians says that
the tolerable upper limit of
elemental zinc per day is 40
milligrams. How much zinc
could I take without interfering with copper?
A: The Recommended Dietary Allowance for Adults is 8
milligrams for women and 11
milligrams for men. Your question is sophisticated. Excess zinc
intake, which might occur at
doses of 50 milligrams/day for
weeks, can interfere with copper
absorption and reduce immune
function. The Food and Nutrition Board (FNB) at the National
Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine has established 40 milligrams daily as
the tolerable upper limit of zinc
for adults.
Write to Joe and Teresa Graedon in
care of King Features, 628 Virginia
Drive, Orlando, FL 32803, or
email them via their website:
PeoplesPharmacy.com.

A8 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

A

EXAMINER

EXAMINER

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A9

A10 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

EXAMINER

!

Look
Lookfor
foryour
yourgrocery
grocerycoupons
couponsinside!
inside!

Memorial
yourmemorialnews.com
YOURMEMORIALNEWS.COM

SERVING THE
COMMUNITY SINCE

•

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

2003
• VOL. 21, NO. 20

•

50 CENTS

10
MONTHS

NE

Look
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Bellaire • River Oaks
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•

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

• VOL. 24, NO. 20

•

50 CENTS

AN EDITION OF

Photos by Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer

Construction workers working at 3800 block of Westheimer Road. The Westheimer improvement project will improve bus stops and repair pavement on a six-mile
stretch of Westheimer Road from Loop 610 to downtown.

FIXING WESTHEIMER
Whitmire cheers main street’s overhaul, promising
Houston is ‘not going to tolerate’ broken streets

By Dug Begley
STA FF WRIT E R

Calling it “a new beginning” for
improving infrastructure, Mayor
John Whitmire used a repaving project by Metro along Westheimer to declare more work is coming to city
streets.
“People complain and know we
can do better with our streets,” the
mayor said, standing in front of a row
of workers. “We are not going to tolerate our broken infrastructure.”
As a result, he said drivers should
expect to see workers on a lot of neglected streets, smoothing them and
addressing what he said were unacceptable conditions.
Tackling the miles of broken
curbs, pocked streets, cracked concrete, burst pipes and crumbling

Houston Mayor John Whitmire answers questions from the press at a
groundbreaking ceremony for the Westheimer improvement project.

LOCAL

HEALTH

WEALTHIEST
CITIES

INTERMITTENT
FASTING

Houston is among the world’s
top cities, with the number of
millionaire residents soaring
during the past 10 years.

The idea behind intermittent
fasting is that brief periods of
little to no caloric intake will
help you lose weight.

PAGE A3

PAGE A7

drainage, however, will take much
more than just the city’s resources,
the mayor said.
“We are going to look at all the options for how to pay for it,” he said,
noting the city’s other looming fiscal
challenges.
Along Westheimer, it is Metropolitan Transit Authority footing the bill
for more than $12.2 million worth of
work. Officials added $2.3 million
earlier this year to planned improvements along the street related to new
bus stops and repaving.
“The original plan was to have
metro put a Band-Aid on the bus
lane,” Metro chairwoman Elizabeth
Gonzalez Brock said.
The additional work repaves two
stretches of Westheimer from Loop
610 to west of near Wesleyan, and
Road continues on A2

A2 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

EXAMINER

ADVICE
HOME IMPROVEMENT

Zinsser hits the spot for antique furniture
Many of my
customers have
furniture from
their parents or
relatives that
mean so much
Trudy
to them. It
Chuoke
might have been
Mom’s dressing
H AP PY
H A N DYMA N
table, or Dad’s
bedside table
and just looking at them brings
back many memories. I have a
few things that I have kept
from my late husband, and I
just like having them in the
house...a sweet remembrance
of the time we had together.
But sometimes the furniture
pieces that you get from your
family have been in storage. I
have this friend who collected
from her mom’s estate. The
furniture and clothing had
been stored in a barn. A very

stinky barn. And the furniture
had adsorbed all the odor.
She told me about all the
different things she tried before
coming to me. She tried airing
it out, she put charcoal in the
drawers, she cleaned it with a
degreaser, but the furniture
smelled so bad she couldn’t
keep it in the house. So she
asked me for help.
Zinsser makes great primers.
Primers for sheetrock that is
crumbling, primers for peeling
paint and a primer for odor.
Older furniture is made so well,
all wood no composite or laminates and that old wood can be
a sponge absorbing odors.
Odor Killing Primer can be
painted on a surface, and it will
seal in the offensive smell. My
friend sealed all the drawers
and the inside of the drawer.
Then she wanted to put a new

finish on the outside of the
furniture, and I suggested Varathane. Her pieces now made
their way into the house.
Another way to use Zinsser
is on kitchen cabinets. If you
had smoke damage from a
kitchen fire and nothing gets
rid of the odor in the cabinets.
You don’t have to have your
whole kitchen torn down. Try
Zinsser first. I used it on my
kitchen cabinets because the
previous owner was a smoker.
That smoke permeated into the
cabinets and when I would
leave for a trip and come backthe whole house had this lingering smell like someone had
been smoking inside my house.
When I finally figured out
what was causing the odor…..I
used Zinsser. All I had to do
was seal the inside of all the
cabinets, and there was no

lingering odor when I returned
from the trip. And this primer
goes on milky so you can see
where you have applied the
primer and then dries clear.

Now to some great
email…..

Question: After listening
to your Saturday afternoon
show on WOAI, I have decided to remove the silicone
caulk in my shower. So how
can I remove the caulk and
what caulk would you suggest that I replace for the
silicone?
Answer: Contractor’s DeSolv-It is great for removing
silicone caulk. First, use a single edged razor blade to cut the
caulk right down the middlw
and along each side. Then
spray the caulk with De-Solv-It.
Spray every 15 minutes for an

hour. Then re-caulk with Sashco Sealant Clean Seal. It has a
7-year guarantee to resist mildew. Allow 48 hours to cure.
Question: I have slippery
steps on a small outdoor
deck. I know that you paint
them with a texture paint,
but I love the color of the
deck and I don’t want to
change that – so is there
something else that is not an
abrasive tread.
Answer: Absolutely yes!
There is a tread that is soft to
the touch but will provide traction and a safe step. They are
called Handi Treads. I like
them because they are translucent and don’t stand out on the
deck. You can use Handi
Treads on wet surfaces also like
in the tub and shower.
www.happyhandyman.com

HEALTH CARE

Medicare enrollment process explained
Toni: I need
to make the
right Medicare
decision because I turn 65
in August and
have
not had a
Toni
health plan for
King
2 years. I do
M E D ICA RE
not know
ADV IC E
where to start
or what to do.
My friends are advising me if
I do not sign up for Medicare
when I turn 65, I will be making a major Medicare mistake.
Can you please simplify the
Medicare enrollment process?
Thanks, Toni
Cynthia, Alvin

Hi Cynthia: Medicare is exploding with an American turning 65 every 8 seconds.
The Medicare basics America
needs to know are:

1) Remember to enroll at the

right time:

a) Turning 65 and receiving
your Social Security check, your
“Welcome to Medicare” kit will
be mailed to you with your
Medicare card 90 days before
you turn 65.
b) Turning 65 and NOT receiving your Social Security check and
not working full time with true
employer group health insurance from either you or your
spouse’s work, you may want to
enroll in Medicare Parts A and
B online via www.ssa.gov.
c) Turning 65, working full-time
with “true” employer group health
insurance whether through your
or your spouse’s employer benefits may want to delay enrolling
in Medicare until you or your
spouse retire or are laid off.

2) Medicare is not free

Medicare covers a lot and
there is a cost associated with
Medicare Parts A and B. The

premium for Part A is at no cost
if you worked 10 years or 40
quarters and paid Medicare
taxes. Medicare Part B has a
premium which is means-tested
depending on your annual income. In 2024, most Medicare
beneficiaries pay $174.70 each
month for their Part B premium. Medicare Part A (hospital)
deductible for 2024 is $1,632, not
once a year but is every 60 days
or 6 times a year. The 2024
Medicare Part B deductible is
$240 once a year with Medicare
paying 80% of the Medicareapproved amount and you paying the remaining 20%.

3) Learn the different
Medicare Parts (A, B, C and
D)
Original Medicare is Medicare Parts A and B which covers hospital, medical and provider expenses. Medicare Part
C, known as Medicare Ad-

vantage plan, is another way of
receiving your Medicare benefits. Part D is the Medicare
Prescription Drug plan that can
be a stand-alone plan with Original Medicare and a Medicare
Supplement, or with a Medicare
Advantage plan that includes a
prescription drug plan.

4) “Original” Medicare

Original Medicare Parts A
and B have no network. Medicare Part A covers in-patient
hospital, skilled nursing/rehab
facility, home health and hospice care. Medicare Part B covers doctor services whether at
the office or surgical care, outpatient surgery/services, lab/Xrays, MRIs, durable medical
equipment, and preventative
services.

5) Medicare Advantage Plan
(MAPD)
You must be enrolled in Orig-

inal Medicare to qualify for a
Medicare Advantage Plan and
can select various Medicare
Advantage plans (Medicare Part
C) such as an HMO or PPO
plans that are offered by private
insurance companies. A MAPD
plan has an insurance provider
network with health care professionals or facilities that provide lower in-network rates.
You do not use your Medicare
(red, white, and blue) card because Medicare will pay the
MAPD plan for your care. You
will have co-pays, deductibles
and maximum out-of-pocket
costs associated with your
medical care.
Confused about Medicare Workshop in Katy is “Live” Thursday,
May 23 at 6 p.m. at Spring Creek
BBQ-Katy, 21000 Katy Frwy,
Katy, TX. 77449. RSVP:832/5198664 or visit www.tonisays.com.
Dinner not included.

Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer

Vehicles passing by construction cones at 3800 block of Westheimer Road,
which is part of a multimillion-dollar repair project.

ROAD
From page A1
then from Montrose east
to Bagby. By adding the repaving, Metro is allowing
the city to delay a more
substantial redesign and
rebuild of lower Westheimer that would have
narrowed the street east of
Montrose.
Brock called moving to
a single project a better use
of resources, defending
the use of transit agency
money for road work.
“We should be looking
at it as the taxpayers’ money, and how can we use the
taxpayers’ money to meet
those needs,” she said,
noting the bus stops and
improved street directly
benefits bus riders.
Metro and the city are
working closely to make
sure construction solves
many issues along Westheimer, from drainage to
pavement condition, said
Tom Jasien, the transit
agency’s interim CEO.
That coordination is important to keep all traffic
moving, including a lot of
bus riders. The Route 82
service along Westheimer
is Metro’s busiest bus
route, with a ridership
higher than every other
transit route in the region
except for the Red Line
light rail through down-

town. Along the entire
route, Metro officials plan
to spend $46.2 million on
various improvements to
bus stops and curbs – as
well as the street and some
drainage along it.
The work, part of Metro’s long-range plan that
voters approved in 2019, is
one of three so-called
BOOST corridor initiatives that bundled improvements along major
routes with the overall
goal of making the entire
route better for passengers.
Work continues along
the 56 Airline/Montrose
and 54 Scott bus routes as
well. In addition, similar
projects continue to upgrade bus shelters around
the Houston region and
add traffic signal prioritization, where warranted,
along bus routes so buses
can avoid red lights if a
couple extra seconds of
green would let them pass
by.
Whitmire cheered the
work along Westheimer as
common-sense improvements, which improve not
only bus service but the
conditions of some of the
city’s most-used streets.
He said building on that
collaboration will be important for the city to get
its infrastructure in order,
citing the need to tap federal, state and Harris

County funds to maximize
what the city can spend.
“It is cost-effective to
work together,” Whitmire
said.
The focus on fixing
streets, however, comes as
some clash with the city’s
reluctance to move forward on some planned
projects. Shortly after residents complained of tree
loss along Montrose related to a drainage and street
project, sponsored by the
Montrose TIRZ, Whitmire’s team halted the permit process. City officials
also paused construction
of a portion of Shepherd
and Durham over what
they said was the removal
of a vehicle lane in order to
widen sidewalks for cyclists and pedestrians.
Meanwhile, Metro, with
new Whitmire-appointed
members, is touting the
new Westheimer work
while slowing the public
process of its other ongoing long-range projects.
Parts of Metro’s web page
detailing its three bus rapid transit projects, currently under design, were
removed last week.
“Since most of the new
board members haven’t
had a chance to review the
proposed projects, we
wanted to pause items that
appear to be advocacy,” Jasien said when asked
about the removal.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A3

EXAMINER

REPORT

Houston is one of world’s top cities for millionaires
By Erica Grieder
STA FF WRIT E R

Houston is among the
world’s wealthiest cities,
with the number of millionaire residents here
soaring during the past
10 years, according to a
new analysis.
There are 90,900 millionaire residents in
Houston, according to
an annual report from
Henley & Partners, a
London-based
investment migration consultancy. According to that
metric, Houston is the
fifth-wealthiest city in
the United States and
17th in the world, just
above the canton of Zurich, in Switzerland.
Houston is also home
to 258 centimillionaires
— those with a net worth
of at least $100 million —
and 18 billionaires, according to Henley &
Partners. The consultancy advises wealthy
individuals on migration
decisions.
New York City and the
San Francisco Bay Area
lead the world when it
comes to collecting millionaires, with about
350,000 in New York and
306,000 in the Bay Area.
Tokyo ranks third, with
about 298,000 millionaires.
Tokyo is among several world cities where the
number of millionaires
has declined over the
past 10 years, the report
notes. But the number of

Steven Hyde

Among American cities, only New York and San Francisco have more millionaire's than Houston, making it one of the wealthiest cities,
according to an analysis by a London firm.

has soared in many cities
across the Sun Belt.
Houston saw a 70% increase in local millionaires from 2013 to 2023,
Dallas saw a 75% increase, and in Austin the
number of millionaires
has more than doubled
to 32,700, according to
the report. The Texas
capital is America’s top
city in terms of millionaire growth.
“Taxes are quite low in

states such as Texas and
Florida, so that’s probably a major driver of the
recent
millionaire
growth in these states,”
said Andrew Amoils,
head of research at New
World Wealth and a contributor to the report.
He added that Houston could continue to attract and create more
millionaires within city
limits.
“Strong growth in

high-value sectors sector
such as high tech, tourism, green tech, fintech,
wealth
management,
and family offices and
engineering will be key,”
he said. “Also, if Houston
is able to get more Fortune 500 companies to
move their headquarters
to the city, that would
significantly
boost
wealth held in the city.”
Despite ranking on
Henley & Partners’ list

Forbes released its list of worst U.S. cities
to drive in. Here’s where Houston ranks
By Shakari Briggs
STA FF WRIT E R

Driving in Texas continues to get a bad rap.
Houston ranked as one
of the worst cities to
drive in, according to a
new report by Forbes
Advisor.
“Drivers lose an average of 11 hours per year in
traffic in the Houston,
Texas area,” the report
says. “It ranks 12th worst
for access to car maintenance, thanks in part to
the Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land metro
area having the seventh
fewest car repair shops
at 1.89 per 10,000 residents.”
Houston, which landed fourth on the list, received a score of 96.52,
with 100 being the worst
possible score. Additionally,
the
report
showed
Space
City
ranked 12th worst for
overall driving experience.
Analysts
also
found drivers experience the 11th longest
average commute time at
30 minutes and nine seconds, not to mention
Houston tied with Atlan-

Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer

Houston traffic, including Interstate 10, is among
the worst in the country.

ta when it comes to the
amount of time drivers
spend in traffic — 74
hours annually.
The report indicated
drivers in the Houston
metro area spend the 11th
highest amount on gas,
$1,257 a year, because of
traffic congestion. Houston had the 12th slowest
average speed in downtown at 16 miles per hour.
“Travel on the nation’s
highways and streets
climbed by 2.1% in 2023
to 3.3 trillion miles, setting a new annual re-

cord, according to the
Department of Transportation,” the report
says. “However, drivers
in some cities have it
worse than others during their daily commute
due to frequent car accidents, heavy traffic congestion, high gas prices
and challenges with accessing car maintenance.”
Forbes Advisor analysts compared 47 of the
most populated cities
across 15 metrics to figure out the worst cities

to drive in. The metrics
categories included driving experience, safety,
cost of car ownership
and access to car maintenance. Ultimately, Oakland topped the list as
the worst to drive in followed by Miami, San
Francisco, Houston and
Philadelphia. Two cities
in North Carolina —
Charlotte and Raleigh —
ended up being the best
cities to drive in, per the
data.
“Drivers in Oakland,
California have the worst
driving experience out of
the 47 cities we evaluated,
thanks to its high number
of fatal car accidents,
steep gas prices and a
high average commute
time workers face each
day,” the report says.

of
wealthiest
cities,
Houston does not appear
on the firm’s list of the
world’s most expensive
cities, a striking dynamic that has helped fuel
the region’s population
growth, according to experts, The median income in Houston is
about $60,000 a year,
compared with a national median of about
$75,000.
Henley & Partners’

rankings are drawn
from its in-house database of more than
150,000 high-net-worth
individuals, as well as
public databases and
other sources. The firm
does not disclose the
names of people in its
database.
“For the purposes of
this report, ‘wealth’ refers to an individual’s
liquid investable wealth,
which only includes list-

A4 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

EXAMINER

EVs make
bestseller list
For first time, 2 Teslas ranked
among area’s most popular
models last year
By Nusaiba Mizan
STA FF WRIT E R

Two all-electric vehicles, both from Tesla,
became the first of their
kind to rank among the
Houston area’s bestselling models last year, according to Houstonbased InfoNation Inc.
Tesla’s Model Y SUV
debuted on the list at No.
10 while the Model 3
made its first appearance at No. 18. More than
5,000 of the Model Y and
4,000 Model 3s were
sold last year. Tesla cut
the prices of both in
2023.
RoShelle Salinas, executive vice president of
the Houston Automobile Dealers Association, called the rising
popularity of electric vehicles “exciting to see for
the first time for us.”
“They’ve got plenty of
variety to choose from,
which makes it easier to
commit to an electric vehicle — along with partners like the energy providers and groups like
Evolve Houston, and the
different
apps
and
charging stations,” Salinas said.
InfoNation’s ranking
uses state Department of
Motor Vehicle records
from Harris and nine
surrounding counties.
It will surprise no one
that the region’s topselling vehicles are pickups. The Ford F-150
topped the list in 2022
and 2023, while the
Chevrolet
Silverado
1500 was second both
years. Pickups occupied
four of the top 10 spots.

HOUSTON AREA’S
BEST-SELLING
VEHICLES
1. Ford F-150 pickup (14,934
sales)
2. Chevrolet Silverado 1500
pickup (10,252)
3. Toyota RAV4 SUV
(9,002)
4. Toyota Camry (8,397)
5. Nissan Rogue SUV
(7,552)
6. Honda CR-V SUV
(6,739)
7. Ram 1500 pickup
(6,693)
8. Mazda CX-5 SUV (6,182)
9. Toyota Tundra pickup
(5,889)
10. Tesla Model Y SUV
(5,870)

Sales of both models,
however, declined in the
Houston area and nationally,
InfoNation
wrote in its report.
Nearly 15,000 F-150s and
10,000 Silverado 1500s
were sold in the region
in 2023.
In Houston, two SUVs
jumped into the top 10:
The Honda CR-V rose to
sixth from No. 18 in 2022
while the Mazda CX-5
jumped to eighth from
No. 22. SUVs grabbed
five of the top 10 spots.
“You get what you
need as a higher-level
vehicle, especially in the
high waters that we can
sometimes see in Houston,” Salinas said. “You
can fit your family, and
all of their sporting
equipment.”
Among sedans, the
Toyota Camry was the
top choice at No. 4.

Elizabeth Conley/Staff photographer

Birds fly by as people watch the Houston skyline as the sunsets on Monday, March 6, 2023 in Houston.

Area Latinos play big economic role
Study finds demographic group
responsible for about two-thirds of
regional GDP growth
By Jhair Romero
STA F F W R I T ER

Houston-area Latinos
have played an outsized
role in growing the region’s
economy in recent years,
according to a study published this week.
From 2018 to 2021, Latinos were responsible for
68.3% of the metropolitan
area’s gross domestic product growth despite making
up about 40% of the population.
The study, funded by
Bank of America, found
the share of Latinos in the
Houston metro’s labor
force grew by 39% from
2010 to 2021, compared to
only 14% for non-Latinos in
the same period. Researchers from California Lutheran University and
UCLA’s Center for the
Study of Latino Health and
Culture produced the analysis.
“Those increased numbers have allowed the region to grow and prosper,

and jobs have been brought
to these areas and businesses,” said longtime
Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce President Laura Murillo. She
added that Houston suburbs with growing Latino
populations, such as Katy
and Spring, are some of the
biggest beneficiaries of the
growth.
Researchers cited the
Houston area’s young Latino population to explain
the economic boost in recent years. (About a third
of the city’s Hispanic population is under18, and 43%
is between 18 and 44, according to the University of
Houston’s Hobby School of
Public Affairs.)
The Cal Lutheran and
UCLA study said the metro’s coming-of-age Latinos
are “overwhelmingly” second- and third-generation
Americans, and the number of Latinos with a bachelor’s degree grew at a rate
2.9 times that of non-Latinos from 2010-21.

These shifts, though
more evident in the Houston area, have also played
out on larger scales despite
the
disproportionately
high mortality rates Latinos faced in the first years
of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The study said that in
2021, Latinos contributed
$581.2 billion to the Texas
economy, with the top sectors being finance and real
estate, government, professional and business services, mining and quarrying,
and construction.
And across the country,
the Latino population’s total economic output in 2021
was $3.2 trillion. The Latino GDP grew by 7.1% that
year, about 2% more than
that of non-Latinos.
Murillo said she hopes
studies like this will influence how companies, from
small businesses to large
corporations, market toward and hire Latino consumers and workers. The
purchasing power of U.S.
Latinos reached $3.4 trillion in 2021, according to an
Arizona State University
study published last year.
“I can’t imagine there’s a
corporation that can afford
to overlook 45% of the de-

mographic,” she said, referring to Latinos’ large
share of Houston’s population. “And these are not anecdotal stories. These are
hard facts. It’s data.”
A recent census data release revealed that the
Houston
metropolitan
area grew by almost
140,000 last year, with Harris County accounting for
more than a third of that
growth.
Although the U.S. Census Bureau won’t release
more detailed demographic information — such as
population by age, sex, race
and Hispanic origin — until this summer, the data
shows much of the county’s population growth was
fueled by international migration.
More than 41,100 immigrants moved to Harris
County last year, second in
the country only to Florida’s Miami-Dade County.
We won’t know exactly
how much Latinos contributed to that population
growth until June, but Murillo sees a clear trend.
“As go Hispanics, so
goes Houston,” Murillo
said. “And the rest of the
country for that matter.”

EXAMINER

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A5

A6 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

CLASSIFIED

EXAMINER

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Outdoor

RIO GRANDE FENCE COMPANY

By Marissa Luck

Employment
TO ADVERTISE:

recruitment@hcnonline.com

“A PROFESSIONAL FENCE COMPANY”

WOOD | WROUGHT IRON
PVC | CHAIN LINK
DRIVE GATES
ACCESS SYSTEMS
www.riograndefence.net
CONTACT US 713-862-7320
Repair

Your Personal PC Technician
Virus Removal • Repairs • Wired/Wireless Networking
Hardware & Software Installation • Build Custom PC’s
Tutorials • Share DSL/Cable Connection • A+ Certified

Ask Ab
Our Sumout
mer
Specials
!

Call James 713-478-3195

SENIOR CHARTERING MANAGER

Hafnia Pools Pte. Ltd.
Houston, TX
See Below To Apply

JLP PAINTING

SERVing LOCaL COMMUnitY FOR OVER 30 YEaRS

Interior & Exterior Painting
Epoxy Garage Floor Painting
General Repairs & Carpentry
Hardi Plank Siding Specialist
Power Washing
Sheetrock/Texture
Window & Door Replacement

281-578-1124

www.jlppainting.com
www.jlpwindows.com
ww
CALL TO SCHEDULE FREE ESTIMATE
Senior Citizen Discount

Handy Home Repairs-I’ll Fix It!
Repair Fences, Decks, Roof Leaks, Siding, Sheetrock, Tile
Kitchen & Bath Repairs ■ Install Fans, Curtains & Shelves
All Jobs Considered ■ Honest, Ethical, Native Houstonian

Call Robert 832-342-6124

painting
Interior/Exterior Painting • Sheetrock
Textures • Power Washing

Hafnia Pools Pte. Ltd. seeks Senior Chartering Manager for Houston,
TX office to oversee vessel positions and trades by maintaining
a detailed, expert-level knowledge of the Hafnia Pools fleet. Min.
req.: bach degree or equivalent in fleet management, business
administration, or related field plus six (6) years of experience in
spot and time chartering, Clean and Dirty Petroleum Products,
contract and terms negotiation and freight rate calculation for
vessels in the size of Handy, Medium Range, Long Range 1 and
Long Range 2; six (6) years of experience with each of the following
systems is required: Chartering Database, IMOS, Remark, Vortexa,
Prosmar, Mardocs, Recap Manager, Q88.com, PowerBI, Microsoft
Office, ICE chat, SMHI,Signal Maritime, Baltic Exchange, Worldscale.
In the alternative, successful candidates can demonstrate 10 years
of experience as outlined above. Any suitable combination of
education and experience is acceptable. Please send resume to
Attn: Mette Gandrup, General Manager/Head of Operations, 1800
West Loop South, Ste 1925, Houston, TX 77027, or email
mga@hafniabw.com using job ID JO-0424-10189, EEO/AA employer.
No calls.

Academy, Ltd.
D/B/A Academy Sports + Outdoors
Katy, TX
See Below to Apply

LEAD PRODUCTION BAKER

4220 Restaurant Group, LLC
dba Leven Baking Company
Houston, TX
See Below To Apply

Call Luis Fuentes

713-298-8393
www.smart-improvements.com
Other

Ed pref/See Below
Yrs exp/See Below
Full-Time

Lead Production Baker: 4220 Restaurant Group, LLC dba Leven
Baking Company; Houston TX 77074. Respble for creat’n o/GF
recipes for various baked goods such as bread, pastries, cakes,
& cookies. Req’s: H.S diplm +36 mos exp. as Baking Chef or
Baker. Knwldg o/bak’g technqs, materls, product’n processes, QC,
& technqs to maxmz prodctn & distribtn o/goods. Include use
o/functinl ingrdnt types, ben’fits, cntrl, handl’g condtns, reduc’g
agents, & enzymes. Dmnstrbl use o/bak’g equipment, & select’n
o/equpmnt for product’n, for efficient handl’gg o/ingrdnts for
optimal prsrvt’n & maintain high quality stndrds for bakery.
Ad’tnl worksite in Harris County, TX. Email CV:
info@levenbankingcompany.com

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER

Boucher Design Group, LLC
Bellarie, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

Generate innovative design concepts that meet client needs
& project objectives & translate them into detailed construction
docs for permitting & construction. Prep architectural deliverables
on projects. Review submittals & finish samples, conduct site visits,
address tech issues, & maint quality control during construction.
Provide tech expertise & guidance to project team to ensure
successful project delivery. Reqs. Bach’s in Architecture, or foreign
equiv, & 6 mnths of relev exp. mail resumes to HR, Boucher Design
Group, LLC, 6802 Mapleridge St Ste. 200 Bellarie, TX 541310.

SOFTWARE ANALYSTS

Insured,
References

Ed pref/See Below
Yrs exp/See Below
Full-Time

Academy, Ltd. D/B/A Academy Sports + Outdoors has an opening
for IT Business Intelligence Engineer in Katy, Texas. Duties include:
Design and develop overall BI capabilities, including reporting and
analytical solution. Req’ts: Employer will a accept a minimum of
bachelor’s degree or foreign equivalent in Computer Science,
Computer Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related engineering field and 48 months of experience developing within a Business
Intelligence function using MicroStrategy BI technology stack or
similar leading BI tools. To apply: You must email your resume to
recruiter@academy.com referencing job code 10129. Incl. complete
contact information (incl. e-mail, day/evening phone, and mailing
address) on resume/application.

Dataquad, Inc.
Houston, TX
See Below To Apply

Like Us on Facebook
and Get $100 Off
Min. of $500

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

IT BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE ENGINEER

Services

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

Software Analysts, Houston, TX: Design, develop & modify
software systems using UNIX, SQL, Oracle, PLSQL. Develop
& direct software systems testing & validation procedures,
programming, & documentation. Travel/relocate to various
unanticipated U.S. locs. Send res to: Dataquad, Inc., 2000 S
Dairy Ashford Rd, Suite 405, Houston, TX 77077.

WEB DEVELOPER II

ManhattanLife Insurance
and Annuity Company
Houston, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

WEB DEVELOPER II: Bachelor’s degree in Systems
Engineer or equivalent, 2 years of work experience. “The
Employer requires 100% telecommuting during the work week,
but must live in Miami-Dade County” Send resume to
marthaboudreaux@manhattanlife.com. Houston, TX 77092.
ManhattanLife Insurance and Annuity Company

PREMIER AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM
FOR PRE K TO 12TH GRADE.
EXPERIENCED AND DEDICATED TEACHERS
SUBJECTS: MATH, READING, WRITING, SCIENCE, & SAT
REGISTER NOW FOR SUMMER PROGRAMS

PHONE: +1 (832) 206-2345
ADD: 870 S MASON RD #126, KATY, TX 77450

LEGAL
Advertising

SOFTWARE DEVELOPERS

Unikon IT Inc.
Katy, TX
See Below To Apply

281-378-1000
legals@hcnonline.com

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

Software Developers: Develop, test and implement new software
programs. Design and update software databases. All jobs based
in Katy, TX but require travel/relocation to unanticipated locations
throughout U.S. Positions require varying levels of education/work
experience. Email resume to careers@unikonit.com or mail to Unikon
IT, Inc., 440 Cobia Dr, Suite 1504, Katy, TX 77494. No walk-ins.

SOFTWARE ENGINEER

Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc.
Houston, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. seeks Software Engineer
for Houston, TX to develop, test, debug and implement code for
existing and new business applications. Role holder will be eligible
to work remotely with manager approval. Send resume+cvr ltr to:
TARecruitment@Broadridge.com. Ref. code required: Software
Engineer. 7793959

QA MANAGER

For more information regarding placing a legal
advertisement, please contact:

Tower
project
working
through
lien woes

Trellis Energy Software LLC
Houston, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

QA MANAGER - Houston, TX - Trellis Energy Software LLC - Lead QA
members in the development & execution of test automation &
manual testing. M+4y/B+6y reqd. Position may be located anywhere
in the U.S.; Email kelli.christopher@trellisenergy.com
w/ job ref #QAM-AG in subj line.

STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING PROFESSIONAL CAREER
LEVEL
Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc
Houston, TX
See Below to Apply

Ed pref/See Below
Yrs exp/See Below
Full-Time

Structural Engineering Professional Career Level sought by Jacobs
Engineering Group, Inc., Houston, TX: Develop, manage schedule,
budget, staffing forecasts for structural scope. Telecom. allowed.
Apply at: https://careers.jacobs.com/. Req#: ELE0002D3.

STAF F WRI TE R

713.362.6868
legals@chron.com
Non Discriminatory Policy
The USA Tai Chi Academy admits students of any race, color, national origin,
and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at
the school. It does not discriminate on
the basis of race, national origin, and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic
and other school-administered programs.

The Annual tax return for the Morillon
Family Foundation (Trustees: William and
Marie Anne Morillon) is available for inspection thru October 15, 2024. By Appointment Only – Phone 281-395-4316
THE FOLLOWING VEHICLES ARE BEING
STORED AT US 69 ENTERPRISE 11356
Eastex Fwy, Houston, TX 77093 IF YOU
HAVE ANY INTEREST PLEASE CALL 281227-1550.
NEWSPAPER NOTICE
C4040161 2017 CHEVROLET SILVERADO
RCH4485 (TX) 3GCPCREC3HG377460
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX C4040150
2012 CHEVROLET CAMARO SGM0149
(TX) 2G1FB1E31C9201339 TWD FRM
11358 EASTEX C4040152 2024 NISSAN
KICKS TPK6106 (TX)
3N1CP5CV7RL474253 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX FRWY C4040153 2003 CHEVROLET TRACKER HMZ1586 (TX)
2CNBE13C036919591 TWD FRM 113258
EASTEX C4040154 2018 INFINITI QX80
PXG0027 (TX) 5N1DL0MN2JC518217
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX FRWY
C4040210 2005 MINI COOPER PRJ5112
(TX) WMWRC33515TJ69986 TWD FRM
11358 EASTEX C4040256 2008 CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER 424CRZ (LA)
1GNDS13S082262039 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX FRWY
2004 MOTORCYCLE
LW0XCGLCX40023035 NO PLATE
C4040259 2020 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER SVF3009 (TX) JA4AD3A36LZ044081
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX C4040275 1981
MERCEDES BENZ 300SD CDX36C (TX)
WDBCB20A4BB13013 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX C4040283 2014 HONDA CR-V
DHH4043 (TX) 2HKRM3H30EH518549
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX C4040303
2019 RAM 1500 RKN7112 (TX)
1C6RRELT2KN724253 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX C4040305 2009 NISSAN ALTIMA CT5L038 (TX) 1N4AL21E29N489167
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX C4040306
2014 DODGE JOURNEY TONLY04 (TX)
3C4PDCBG8ET126650 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX C4040307 2017 HYUNDAI TUCSON TJL3347 (TX)
KM8JU3AC6CU468570 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX C4040308 2006 TOYOTA AVALON NMB4459 (TX)
4T1BK36B46U091753 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX
FINAL NEWSPAPER NOTICE
C4030387 2017 FORD FUSION PCX8805
(TX) 3FA6P0LU7HR384798 TWD FRM
11358 EASTEX FRWY C4030388 2018
DODGE JOURNEY STW8269 (TX)
3C4PDDEG8JT353462 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX FRWY C4030411 2013 KIA RIO
KHP1017 (TX) KNADN4A3XD6233757
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX FRWY
C4030412 2019 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER PYV8594 (TX) JA4AD3A30KZ049694
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX FRWY
C4030413 2015 CHEVROLET CRUZE
FWC4376 (TX) 1G1PC5SB6F7188551 TWD
FRM 11358 EASTEX FRWY
Correction for ad 34330771.
THE FOLLOWING VEHICLES ARE BEING
STORED AT US 69 ENTERPRISE 11356
Eastex Fwy, Houston, TX 77093 IF YOU
HAVE ANY INTEREST PLEASE CALL 281227-1550.
NEWSPAPER NOTICE
C4040301 2004 MOTORCYCLE NO
PLATE (TX) LW0XCGLCX40023035 TWD
FRM 8012 BELTWAY 8 C4040362 2024
TOYOTA COROLLA TZR1534 (TX)
5YFS4MCE2RP186588 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX FRWY C4040363 2011 TOYOTA
CAMRY DMN1461 (TX)
2T1BU4EE3BC616325 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX C4040388 2014 CHEVROLET
EQUINOX TWZ7787 (TX)
1GNALBEK4EZ135025 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX FRWY C4040398 2013 HONDA
ACCORD TKY2935 (TX)
1HGCT1B81DA010955 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX C4040404 2014 JEEP CHEROKEE TCC2862 (TX) 1C4PJLDXEW118490
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX C4040430 2015
FORD FOCUS RKL1130 (TX)
1FADP3F22FL244947 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX
FINAL NEWSPAPER NOTICE
C40400445 2019 KIA OPTIMA LMF6899
(TX) 5XXGT4L38KG285843 TWD FRM
11358 EASTEX C4040062 2014 NISSAN
SENTRA MMT4448 (TX)
3N1AB7APEY252245 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX C4040063 2015 NISSAN ALTIMA NPN6927 (TX) 1N4AL3AP0FN403132
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX C4040065
2006 PONTIAC TORRENT PCW1368 (TX)
2CKDL73F166067250 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX
The following vehicles were towed to and
may be retrieved @ 1700 Brittmoore Rd.
Houston, Texas 77043
713-468-4242. VSF#:0000516
2012 WABASH 1JJV532D4CL716581
$5301.01
1999 LEXUS JT8BH28FXX0164371
$466.40
2022 FORD 1FDXE4FN0NDC03282
$441.66
2014 NISSAN 1N4AL3AP9EX423048
$441.66
2017 NISSAN 3N1AB7AP8HY345736
$392.19
2014 CHEVY 1G1PC5SB5E7417901
$416.93
2005 KAWASAKI KZT00AE105535
$392.19
2011 CHEVY 1G1ZB5E1XBF235580
$392.19

ed company holdings,
Contractors
say work
cash
holdings, and
debtcouldresidential
restart in June
on X
free
property
Houston, a 33-story
skyholdings,”
said Sarah
scraper head
in the
Museum
Nicklin,
of public
reDistrict,
lations
forseveral
Henleymonths
& Partafter
construction
ners.
abruptly stopped on
what was expected to be
one of the city’s largest
co-living projects.
Chicago-based X Co.
halted construction last
fall for unknown reasons
on the Houston project,
as well as those in Phoenix and Tampa, Fla.
X Houston, at 5501 La
Branch,
had
nearly
reached its peak height
when work on the
750,000-square-foot
project stopped, leaving
neighbors
wondering
about its future. The new
anticipated
schedule
could push the building’s
completion to sometime
next year.
During the construction delay, there hasn’t
been significant damage
to the project site, said
Brady Johnson, senior
vice president with lead
contractor Hoar Construction.
“We’ve been walking
the job regularly and it
looks good,” said Johnson. “Obviously we’ll go
through and look at the
structure and get an all
clear to say everything is
ready to go.”
X Houston was estimated to cost $107 million, according to initial
state
permit
filings,
which are subject to
change.
Since September 2023,
subcontractors filed dozens of liens against affiliates of The X Co. for unpaid work and services
tallying more than $67
million, according to
Harris County deed records.
Liens totaling about
$38 million were filed by
Hoar Construction, according to deed records.
The remaining claims —
ranging in amounts from
$680 to $10.8 million —
were filed by subcontractors such as mechanics,
electricians and plumbers, records show.
Contractors are working with the developer to
resolve the liens, Johnson said: “That’s what
we’re working toward,
and they’re really close
to finalizing those.”
Officials with X Co.
did not respond to multiple requests for comment.
Once completed, X
Houston is expected to
be among the city’s biggest ground-up new coliving projects, with a total of 646 beds spread
across 475 units proposed.
Co-living is a form of
professionally managed,
shared housing in which
residents rent rooms,
while sharing common
spaces with roommates.
Often residents can get
more flexible lease arrangements while the
landlord handles things
such as cleaning, bill
splitting and stocking
the units with basic supplies.
While co-living is
sometimes a more affordable option, the X
Co.’s projects are pitched
as more luxurious living
with upscale amenities
and a social club catering
to affluent young professionals.
Separately, an unrelated smaller co-living community underway in
Montrose is expected to
open this summer. The
two projects are part of a
growing trend of co-living communities in the
Sun Belt.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A7

EXAMINER

HEALTH

Intermittent fasting has its risks
Q: I read a recent headline
that said people who fast
intermittently have an increased risk of heart disease.
Is there merit
to this story?
A: Intermittent fasting is an
increasingly
common weightloss strategy. The
two most comDr. Keith
mon approaches
Roach
of intermittent
TO YOU R
fasting are alG O OD
H E ALT H
ternate-day
fasting (eating
nothing one day, then whatever
you want the next) and timerestricted feeding (eating at certain times in the day, usually in
an eight-hour time frame).
The published data on the
benefits of these diets show
short-term weight loss (i.e., 12
weeks), but no long-term weight
loss (one year), compared to
standard dietary advice.
There is evidence of potential
harm from intermittent fasting.
Studies have shown an increased
risk of eating disorders (particularly binge eating). One study
showed that disordered eating
worsened in those assigned to an
intermittent fasting schedule.
However, other studies do not
show this.
The concern for disordered
eating is highest among younger
and female populations, who are
most at risk for eating disorders,
and I advise against intermittent
fasting for a person with a history of an eating disorder.
The study you read about was
presented as an abstract in the
March meeting of the American
Heart Association; it is not yet
published or peer-reviewed. But
it did show that people who
report an intermittent-fasting
diet (specifically those who ate
over an eight-hour time frame)
were at a higher risk for death
from heart disease than those
who ate over a 12-16 hour time
frame.
However, this wasn’t a controlled study, and it is likely that
people who chose a time-restricted eating pattern already
had issues that put them at a
higher risk for heart disease.
Still, given the absence of
long-term benefits, I don’t generally recommend a time-restricted diet or intermittent fasting to
my patients.
My colleagues in weight medicine consider intermittent fasting
to be an option that helps a subset of people. There are some
people who do benefit from this
type of diet, and as long as they

Getty Images

The idea behind intermittent fasting is that brief periods of little to no caloric intake will help you lose weight, influence your
metabolism, help your circadian biology (sleep cycles) and enhance the gut microbiome.

are eating well and are being
monitored by their physician,
they should continue to follow
their diet if it is working for
them.
Q: As a person who has had
vocal cord paralysis after a
viral infection, I was fortunate not to need many of the
outlined modes of care. However, there was one additional
therapy that was utilized
within my plan of care —
speech therapy. It took a
while, but it worked well.
I suppose I may have some
lingering weakness. When I
experience a new viral upper
respiratory infection, I often
experience prolonged hoarseness. So, I pull out my exercise sheet once again, practice
the techniques and experience the same great results.
A: I thank the reader for
writing, as I should have recommended voice therapy for people
with vocal cord paralysis, as well
as those with other voice issues.
Some ear, nose and throat
physicians, speech-language
pathologists, respiratory therapists and voice coaches specialize in voice therapy.
Q: I read last year that

nearly 20 million Americans
were living with long COVID,
but I understand that the
number is much higher now.
Can you explain exactly what
long COVID is and how it is
treated?
A: Persistent symptoms after
an infection are not unique to
COVID. Many people will have
cough or asthma exacerbations
for weeks or even months after
a bad flu infection.
Likewise, many people have
symptoms (relating to many
different body systems) after
recovering from COVID. The
Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention and the World
Health Organization differ on
the amount of time after an
infection that has to pass for it
to be considered “long COVID”
— four weeks and three
months, respectively.
The most common physical
symptoms of long COVID are
fatigue, shortness of breath and
muscle aches. In one study of
people who survived the initial
wave of COVID, 45% had at
least one persistent physical
symptom.
The most common and persistent neurological/psychological symptoms are anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress

disorder and cognition problems (“brain fog”). Up to 25% of
COVID survivors had one of
these symptoms after their
physical recovery. This was
higher than other respiratory
viruses, such as influenza.
For those who required a stay
in the intensive care unit, over
75% had physical, psychological
or cognitive symptoms after
their discharge. These survivors
are at the highest risk for prolonged and severe long-COVID
symptoms.
There are many hypotheses
for the underlying cause of
long-COVID symptoms, and
although there is some evidence, it’s not clear whether
there is one single cause or
whether multiple mechanisms
are possible.
I wish I could get better results from the available treatments. Essentially, we treat each
patient’s concerns the same way
we would if the person hadn’t
had COVID. Emphasis on sleep,
nutrition and exercise are critical. But we should still recognize that many people with long
COVID have symptoms that are
very similar to myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome. As such, exercise should
not be overdone, since this can

worsen post-exertional symptoms.
Q: Do MRI tests, especially
of the head, contribute to
hearing loss even when earplugs are used?
A: MRI scans are very loud,
and exposure to loud noises can
cause hearing loss. However, it’s
the prolonged and repeated
exposure to loud noises that is
most likely to cause hearing
damage, so MRI scans are not
likely to be a problem. Earplugs
are still a good idea, though.
There is nothing about the
strong magnetic field in an MRI
machine that adversely affects
hearing. They just make a lot of
noise due to the moving electrical coils. Some machines can
cause levels up to 110 decibels —
as loud as a rock concert.
New MRI technology is coming that will dramatically reduce
the amount of noise made during a scan.
Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable
to answer individual letters, but
will incorporate them in the column
whenever possible. Readers may
email questions to ToYourGood
Health@med.cornell.edu or send
mail to 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803.

NAC supplement helped reader stop nail biting
sweetened beverages (European
Journal of Endocrinology, Jan. 3,
2024).
Others who would like to
learn more about this approach
can find further details along
with information on medications in our “eGuide to Acne
Solutions.” This online resource
is located under the Health
eGuides tab at Peoples
Pharmacy.com.

JOE AND TERESA
GRAEDON
PE OPLE ’S PHA RMACY

Q: I’ve been a nail-biter
since I was a kid. The only
way I had nice nails was to
spend a fortune at a salon.
When I learned that NAC
(N-acetylcysteine) is known
to help with BFRBs, bodyfocused repetitive behaviors,
such as nail biting, hair pulling or skin picking, I decided
to try it. After a few months
of taking this supplement, I
had beautiful, natural fingernails for the first time in my
entire life. A most welcome
extra benefit of NAC for me
is that I have absolutely no
desire for alcohol and my
appetite and craving for unhealthy foods are just gone.
My primary care doc is
fairly progressive, but he
knew nothing about NAC
other than its use in the
emergency room to reverse
acetaminophen overdose. He
gave me the stamp of approval after seeing the changes in
me. I take several supplements, but this one has had
the most profound and positive change in my overall
health.
A: Thank you so much for a
fascinating testimonial. As your
doctor told you, NAC is “the
mainstay of therapy for acet-

LWA-Dann Tardif/Getty Images

Very little research has been conducted on the use of N-acetylcysteine supplements to treat
body-focused repetitive behaviors, such as nail biting or hair pulling.

aminophen toxicity” (StatPearls,
Feb. 19, 2023). The Food and
Drug Administration approved
it for this indication in 1985.
There is far less research on
its use to control body-focused
repetitive behaviors with a compulsive component, such as nail
biting or hair pulling. A review
of the research noted that only a
few clinical trials of NAC for this
purpose have been conducted
(International Journal of Environmental Research and Public
Health, May 2022).

We haven’t seen any studies
showing that NAC can reduce
the urge for alcohol or junk
food. However, a small study in
Indonesia demonstrated that it
helped men stop smoking (Cureus, Feb. 16, 2024).
NAC has a good safety profile.
It may cause nausea, vomiting or
diarrhea, and occasionally, people develop reactions such as a
rash or flushing. Headache,
hives or fever may occur at the
high doses used to treat acetaminophen toxicity (American

Family Physician, Aug. 1, 2009).
Q: My 16-year-old daughter
had terrible acne. She gave
up sugar, dairy and gluten,
and her acne disappeared
within six weeks. She has
beautiful skin now.
A: It sounds like your daughter found a great solution. Studies show that avoiding milk and
other dairy products can be
helpful for those with acne (Nutrients, Oct. 17, 2023). It also
makes sense to avoid sugar-

Q: I have a question about
the amount of elemental zinc
that would be safe to take per
day. My supplement has 7
milligrams of elemental zinc
per tablet. When I looked it
up, the American Academy of
Family Physicians says that
the tolerable upper limit of
elemental zinc per day is 40
milligrams. How much zinc
could I take without interfering with copper?
A: The Recommended Dietary Allowance for Adults is 8
milligrams for women and 11
milligrams for men. Your question is sophisticated. Excess zinc
intake, which might occur at
doses of 50 milligrams/day for
weeks, can interfere with copper
absorption and reduce immune
function. The Food and Nutrition Board (FNB) at the National
Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine has established 40 milligrams daily as
the tolerable upper limit of zinc
for adults.
Write to Joe and Teresa Graedon in
care of King Features, 628 Virginia
Drive, Orlando, FL 32803, or
email them via their website:
PeoplesPharmacy.com.

A8 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

A

EXAMINER

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A9

EXAMINER

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A10 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

EXAMINER

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Bellaire • River Oaks
West University • Heights

YOURBELLAIRENEWS.COM

•

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

• VOL. 24, NO. 20

•

50 CENTS

MONTHS

S2 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

EXAMINER

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YOURKATYNEWS.COM

•

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

• VOL. 29, NO. 39

•

50 CENTS

AN EDITION OF

Cane Island

Katy's Cane Island master-planned community is named after cane plants that once occupied the area.

WHAT’S IN A NAME?
How Katy’s historic neighborhoods got their names

By Claire Goodman

word for five, in its title, according to
the Cinco Ranch Property Association.
William Wheless, J.S. Abercrombie, W.B. Pryon, H.G. Nelms and L.M
Josey, all wealthy oil magnates, purchased the land in 1937, according to
the association.
The land changed hands over the
years, and in 2003, real estate developer Newland Communities purchased the land to build the masterplanned community.
Newland Communities retained
the Cinco Ranch name for the subdivision.

STA FF WRIT E R

Some subdivisions in Katy have
interesting names.
With titles like “Cane Island,”
“Elyson,” “Jordan Ranch,” “Morton
Ranch” and “Cinco Ranch,” the
names may seem arbitrary, but they
all have deep historical roots.
Here’s how Katy neighborhoods
got their historic names.

Cinco Ranch

Cinco Ranch is the largest subdivision in Katy, encompassing an area
of about five-square miles, according
to the U.S. Census Bureau.
Before Texas became a state, it was
colonized by Spain, so when five
friends decided to buy the land that
would later become Cinco Ranch,
they included “cinco,” the Spanish

KATY
INSIDER
Reporter Claire Goodman
delivers top stories from your
neighborhood to your inbox
twice a week - education, real
estate, new businesses and more.
Scan the QR code to sign up for
free.

Cane Island
Brookfield Properties

The Elyson subdivision is named for Ely Freeman, who came to Katy
from Iowa via covered wagon in 1898

EDUCATION

POLICY
PROTEST

The U.S. Department of
Education Civil Rights
Office has opened an
investigation of Katy ISD.
PAGE A5

The Cane Island subdivision is the
only master-planned community inside the Katy city limits. It’s fitting,
therefore, that it’s an homage to KaNames continues on A3

A2 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

SUGAR LAND SUN | KATY RANCHER |

ADVICE
HOME IMPROVEMENT

Zinsser hits the spot for antique furniture
Many of my
customers have
furniture from
their parents or
relatives that
mean so much
Trudy
to them. It
Chuoke
might have been
Mom’s dressing
H AP PY
H A N DYMA N
table, or Dad’s
bedside table
and just looking at them brings
back many memories. I have a
few things that I have kept
from my late husband, and I
just like having them in the
house...a sweet remembrance
of the time we had together.
But sometimes the furniture
pieces that you get from your
family have been in storage. I
have this friend who collected
from her mom’s estate. The
furniture and clothing had
been stored in a barn. A very

stinky barn. And the furniture
had adsorbed all the odor.
She told me about all the
different things she tried before
coming to me. She tried airing
it out, she put charcoal in the
drawers, she cleaned it with a
degreaser, but the furniture
smelled so bad she couldn’t
keep it in the house. So she
asked me for help.
Zinsser makes great primers.
Primers for sheetrock that is
crumbling, primers for peeling
paint and a primer for odor.
Older furniture is made so well,
all wood no composite or laminates and that old wood can be
a sponge absorbing odors.
Odor Killing Primer can be
painted on a surface, and it will
seal in the offensive smell. My
friend sealed all the drawers
and the inside of the drawer.
Then she wanted to put a new

finish on the outside of the
furniture, and I suggested Varathane. Her pieces now made
their way into the house.
Another way to use Zinsser
is on kitchen cabinets. If you
had smoke damage from a
kitchen fire and nothing gets
rid of the odor in the cabinets.
You don’t have to have your
whole kitchen torn down. Try
Zinsser first. I used it on my
kitchen cabinets because the
previous owner was a smoker.
That smoke permeated into the
cabinets and when I would
leave for a trip and come backthe whole house had this lingering smell like someone had
been smoking inside my house.
When I finally figured out
what was causing the odor…..I
used Zinsser. All I had to do
was seal the inside of all the
cabinets, and there was no

lingering odor when I returned
from the trip. And this primer
goes on milky so you can see
where you have applied the
primer and then dries clear.

Now to some great
email…..

Question: After listening
to your Saturday afternoon
show on WOAI, I have decided to remove the silicone
caulk in my shower. So how
can I remove the caulk and
what caulk would you suggest that I replace for the
silicone?
Answer: Contractor’s DeSolv-It is great for removing
silicone caulk. First, use a single edged razor blade to cut the
caulk right down the middlw
and along each side. Then
spray the caulk with De-Solv-It.
Spray every 15 minutes for an

hour. Then re-caulk with Sashco Sealant Clean Seal. It has a
7-year guarantee to resist mildew. Allow 48 hours to cure.
Question: I have slippery
steps on a small outdoor
deck. I know that you paint
them with a texture paint,
but I love the color of the
deck and I don’t want to
change that – so is there
something else that is not an
abrasive tread.
Answer: Absolutely yes!
There is a tread that is soft to
the touch but will provide traction and a safe step. They are
called Handi Treads. I like
them because they are translucent and don’t stand out on the
deck. You can use Handi
Treads on wet surfaces also like
in the tub and shower.
www.happyhandyman.com

HEALTH CARE

Medicare enrollment process explained
Toni: I need
to make the
right Medicare
decision because I turn 65
in August and
have
not had a
Toni
health plan for
King
2 years. I do
M E D ICA RE
not know
ADV IC E
where to start
or what to do.
My friends are advising me if
I do not sign up for Medicare
when I turn 65, I will be making a major Medicare mistake.
Can you please simplify the
Medicare enrollment process?
Thanks, Toni
Cynthia, Alvin

Hi Cynthia: Medicare is exploding with an American turning 65 every 8 seconds.
The Medicare basics America
needs to know are:

1) Remember to enroll at the

right time:

a) Turning 65 and receiving
your Social Security check, your
“Welcome to Medicare” kit will
be mailed to you with your
Medicare card 90 days before
you turn 65.
b) Turning 65 and NOT receiving your Social Security check and
not working full time with true
employer group health insurance from either you or your
spouse’s work, you may want to
enroll in Medicare Parts A and
B online via www.ssa.gov.
c) Turning 65, working full-time
with “true” employer group health
insurance whether through your
or your spouse’s employer benefits may want to delay enrolling
in Medicare until you or your
spouse retire or are laid off.

2) Medicare is not free

Medicare covers a lot and
there is a cost associated with
Medicare Parts A and B. The

premium for Part A is at no cost
if you worked 10 years or 40
quarters and paid Medicare
taxes. Medicare Part B has a
premium which is means-tested
depending on your annual income. In 2024, most Medicare
beneficiaries pay $174.70 each
month for their Part B premium. Medicare Part A (hospital)
deductible for 2024 is $1,632, not
once a year but is every 60 days
or 6 times a year. The 2024
Medicare Part B deductible is
$240 once a year with Medicare
paying 80% of the Medicareapproved amount and you paying the remaining 20%.

3) Learn the different
Medicare Parts (A, B, C and
D)
Original Medicare is Medicare Parts A and B which covers hospital, medical and provider expenses. Medicare Part
C, known as Medicare Ad-

vantage plan, is another way of
receiving your Medicare benefits. Part D is the Medicare
Prescription Drug plan that can
be a stand-alone plan with Original Medicare and a Medicare
Supplement, or with a Medicare
Advantage plan that includes a
prescription drug plan.

4) “Original” Medicare

Original Medicare Parts A
and B have no network. Medicare Part A covers in-patient
hospital, skilled nursing/rehab
facility, home health and hospice care. Medicare Part B covers doctor services whether at
the office or surgical care, outpatient surgery/services, lab/Xrays, MRIs, durable medical
equipment, and preventative
services.

5) Medicare Advantage Plan
(MAPD)
You must be enrolled in Orig-

inal Medicare to qualify for a
Medicare Advantage Plan and
can select various Medicare
Advantage plans (Medicare Part
C) such as an HMO or PPO
plans that are offered by private
insurance companies. A MAPD
plan has an insurance provider
network with health care professionals or facilities that provide lower in-network rates.
You do not use your Medicare
(red, white, and blue) card because Medicare will pay the
MAPD plan for your care. You
will have co-pays, deductibles
and maximum out-of-pocket
costs associated with your
medical care.
Confused about Medicare Workshop in Katy is “Live” Thursday,
May 23 at 6 p.m. at Spring Creek
BBQ-Katy, 21000 Katy Frwy,
Katy, TX. 77449. RSVP:832/5198664 or visit www.tonisays.com.
Dinner not included.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A3

SUGAR LAND SUN | KATY RANCHER |

NAMES
From page A1
ty’s original name.
In the 1800s, Katy was
called “Cane Island” for
the cane plants that grew
in the area, according to
the Texas State Historical
Association.
Cane Island was established in 1872, said Shaterra Johnson, historian with
the Fort Bend Black Heritage society. As a result,
she noted, many of Katy’s
founders were freedmen
who were given land upon
their emancipation in 1865.
In the 1890s, the Missouri- Kansas-Texas, or
M-K-T, rail line would add
a stop in the city, putting
Katy on the map. The
name was changed to Katy, likely as a shortened
version of the K-T stop.

Morton Ranch

Located in the northeast quadrant of the city,
the Morton Ranch subdivision was named for the
Morton Family Ranch, according to the Katy ISD
website.
In October 1896, Elbert
M. Morton and his wife
Margaret Morton moved
from Missouri to Katy
with their children. They
purchased land that encompasses Morton Ranch
from the H&C Railroad
Company survey.
All seven of the Morton
children attended the Katy
schools, and Morton
Ranch High School was
named for the family as
well.

Elyson

The Elyson subdivision
is named for Ely Freeman,
who came to Katy from Iowa via covered wagon in
1898, said Adrienne Davitz, president of the Katy
Heritage Society, building
their first home on what is
now Farm-to-Market 529.
The Freeman family is
steeped in the history of
the northwest quadrant of
the city.
Farm-to-Market
529
was called Freeman Road

Newland Communities

Before Texas became a state, it was colonized by Spain, so when five friends decided to buy the land that would later become Cinco
Ranch.

until recent development
expanded the road, Davitz
noted.
Freeman High School,
which serves the Elyson
community, is also named
for the Freeman family.

Jordan Ranch

Located in the southwest quadrant of Katy and
bordering Fulshear, Jordan Ranch is named for
the Jordan family who settled in the area in the early
1900s.
The Jordan family’s
connection to Katy began
in 1913 when Hank Jordan
and his wife Olga left their
native Kansas to make a
new life amid rice farmers
and cattle ranchers, the

Chronicle reported.
They set up their homestead just north of what
was then the town limits.
In the years that followed,
Jordan family members
took an active part in their
community.
When he wasn’t ranching, farming or running a
local bank, founding patriarch Hank Jordan
served as a Katy ISD
school board trustee from
1932-1939. Katy ISD officials said he was instrumental in obtaining the
Katy FFA charter, building the first gym and starting the first music program in the district.
Jordan High School is
also named for the family.

Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer

Located in the northeast quadrant of the city, Morton Ranch was named for the
Morton Family Ranch. The local high school also is named for the Mortons.

A4 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

SUGAR LAND SUN | KATY RANCHER |

HEALTH

Intermittent fasting has its risks
Q: I read a recent headline
that said people who fast
intermittently have an increased risk of heart disease.
Is there merit
to this story?
A: Intermittent fasting is an
increasingly
common weightloss strategy. The
two most comDr. Keith
mon approaches
Roach
of intermittent
TO YOU R
fasting are alG O OD
H E ALT H
ternate-day
fasting (eating
nothing one day, then whatever
you want the next) and timerestricted feeding (eating at certain times in the day, usually in
an eight-hour time frame).
The published data on the
benefits of these diets show
short-term weight loss (i.e., 12
weeks), but no long-term weight
loss (one year), compared to
standard dietary advice.
There is evidence of potential
harm from intermittent fasting.
Studies have shown an increased
risk of eating disorders (particularly binge eating). One study
showed that disordered eating
worsened in those assigned to an
intermittent fasting schedule.
However, other studies do not
show this.
The concern for disordered
eating is highest among younger
and female populations, who are
most at risk for eating disorders,
and I advise against intermittent
fasting for a person with a history of an eating disorder.
The study you read about was
presented as an abstract in the
March meeting of the American
Heart Association; it is not yet
published or peer-reviewed. But
it did show that people who
report an intermittent-fasting
diet (specifically those who ate
over an eight-hour time frame)
were at a higher risk for death
from heart disease than those
who ate over a 12-16 hour time
frame.
However, this wasn’t a controlled study, and it is likely that
people who chose a time-restricted eating pattern already
had issues that put them at a
higher risk for heart disease.
Still, given the absence of
long-term benefits, I don’t generally recommend a time-restricted diet or intermittent fasting to
my patients.
My colleagues in weight medicine consider intermittent fasting
to be an option that helps a subset of people. There are some
people who do benefit from this
type of diet, and as long as they

Getty Images

The idea behind intermittent fasting is that brief periods of little to no caloric intake will help you lose weight, influence your
metabolism, help your circadian biology (sleep cycles) and enhance the gut microbiome.

are eating well and are being
monitored by their physician,
they should continue to follow
their diet if it is working for
them.
Q: As a person who has had
vocal cord paralysis after a
viral infection, I was fortunate not to need many of the
outlined modes of care. However, there was one additional
therapy that was utilized
within my plan of care —
speech therapy. It took a
while, but it worked well.
I suppose I may have some
lingering weakness. When I
experience a new viral upper
respiratory infection, I often
experience prolonged hoarseness. So, I pull out my exercise sheet once again, practice
the techniques and experience the same great results.
A: I thank the reader for
writing, as I should have recommended voice therapy for people
with vocal cord paralysis, as well
as those with other voice issues.
Some ear, nose and throat
physicians, speech-language
pathologists, respiratory therapists and voice coaches specialize in voice therapy.
Q: I read last year that

nearly 20 million Americans
were living with long COVID,
but I understand that the
number is much higher now.
Can you explain exactly what
long COVID is and how it is
treated?
A: Persistent symptoms after
an infection are not unique to
COVID. Many people will have
cough or asthma exacerbations
for weeks or even months after
a bad flu infection.
Likewise, many people have
symptoms (relating to many
different body systems) after
recovering from COVID. The
Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention and the World
Health Organization differ on
the amount of time after an
infection that has to pass for it
to be considered “long COVID”
— four weeks and three
months, respectively.
The most common physical
symptoms of long COVID are
fatigue, shortness of breath and
muscle aches. In one study of
people who survived the initial
wave of COVID, 45% had at
least one persistent physical
symptom.
The most common and persistent neurological/psychological symptoms are anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress

disorder and cognition problems (“brain fog”). Up to 25% of
COVID survivors had one of
these symptoms after their
physical recovery. This was
higher than other respiratory
viruses, such as influenza.
For those who required a stay
in the intensive care unit, over
75% had physical, psychological
or cognitive symptoms after
their discharge. These survivors
are at the highest risk for prolonged and severe long-COVID
symptoms.
There are many hypotheses
for the underlying cause of
long-COVID symptoms, and
although there is some evidence, it’s not clear whether
there is one single cause or
whether multiple mechanisms
are possible.
I wish I could get better results from the available treatments. Essentially, we treat each
patient’s concerns the same way
we would if the person hadn’t
had COVID. Emphasis on sleep,
nutrition and exercise are critical. But we should still recognize that many people with long
COVID have symptoms that are
very similar to myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome. As such, exercise should
not be overdone, since this can

worsen post-exertional symptoms.
Q: Do MRI tests, especially
of the head, contribute to
hearing loss even when earplugs are used?
A: MRI scans are very loud,
and exposure to loud noises can
cause hearing loss. However, it’s
the prolonged and repeated
exposure to loud noises that is
most likely to cause hearing
damage, so MRI scans are not
likely to be a problem. Earplugs
are still a good idea, though.
There is nothing about the
strong magnetic field in an MRI
machine that adversely affects
hearing. They just make a lot of
noise due to the moving electrical coils. Some machines can
cause levels up to 110 decibels —
as loud as a rock concert.
New MRI technology is coming that will dramatically reduce
the amount of noise made during a scan.
Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable
to answer individual letters, but
will incorporate them in the column
whenever possible. Readers may
email questions to ToYourGood
Health@med.cornell.edu or send
mail to 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803.

NAC supplement helped reader stop nail biting
JOE AND TERESA
GRAEDON
PE OPLE ’S PHA RMACY

Q: I’ve been a nail-biter
since I was a kid. The only
way I had nice nails was to
spend a fortune at a salon.
When I learned that NAC
(N-acetylcysteine) is known
to help with BFRBs, bodyfocused repetitive behaviors, such as nail biting, hair
pulling or skin picking, I
decided to try it. After a few
months of taking this supplement, I had beautiful,
natural fingernails for the
first time in my entire life. A

most welcome extra benefit
of NAC for me is that I have
absolutely no desire for
alcohol and my appetite and
craving for unhealthy foods
are just gone.
My primary care doc is
fairly progressive, but he
knew nothing about NAC
other than its use in the
emergency room to reverse
acetaminophen overdose.
He gave me the stamp of
approval after seeing the
changes in me. I take several
supplements, but this one
has had the most profound
and positive change in my
overall health.
A: Thank you so much for a
fascinating testimonial. As
your doctor told you, NAC is
“the mainstay of therapy for
acetaminophen toxicity” (StatPearls, Feb. 19, 2023). The Food
and Drug Administration ap-

proved it for this indication in
1985.
There is far less research on
its use to control body-focused
repetitive behaviors with a
compulsive component, such as
nail biting or hair pulling. A
review of the research noted
that only a few clinical trials of
NAC for this purpose have
been conducted (International
Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, May
2022).
We haven’t seen any studies
showing that NAC can reduce
the urge for alcohol or junk
food. However, a small study in
Indonesia demonstrated that it
helped men stop smoking (Cureus, Feb. 16, 2024).
NAC has a good safety profile. It may cause nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, and occasionally, people develop reactions
such as a rash or flushing.

Headache, hives or fever may
occur at the high doses used to
treat acetaminophen toxicity
(American Family Physician,
Aug. 1, 2009).
Q: My 16-year-old daughter had terrible acne. She
gave up sugar, dairy and
gluten, and her acne disappeared within six weeks.
She has beautiful skin now.
A: It sounds like your
daughter found a great solution. Studies show that avoiding milk and other dairy products can be helpful for those
with acne (Nutrients, Oct. 17,
2023). It also makes sense to
avoid sugar-sweetened beverages (European Journal of
Endocrinology, Jan. 3, 2024).
Q: I have a question about
the amount of elemental zinc
that would be safe to take
per day. My supplement has

7 milligrams of elemental
zinc per tablet. When I
looked it up, the American
Academy of Family Physicians says that the tolerable
upper limit of elemental zinc
per day is 40 milligrams.
How much zinc could I take
without interfering with
copper?
A: The Recommended Dietary Allowance for Adults is 8
milligrams for women and 11
milligrams for men. Your question is sophisticated. Excess
zinc intake, which might occur
at doses of 50 milligrams/day
for weeks, can interfere with
copper absorption and reduce
immune function.
Write to Joe and Teresa Graedon
in care of King Features, 628
Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL
32803, or email them via their
website: PeoplesPharmacy.com.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A5

SUGAR LAND SUN | KATY RANCHER |

Katy ISD projects
$7.8M deficit in its
new budget which
does not include
teacher raise
By Claire Goodman
STAF F WRI TE R

Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

Nya Morales, left, Saturn Ferguson and Russ Russell join a student demonstration protesting against Katy
ISD's new transgender policy outside the school districts educational support complex on Wednesday, Aug.
30, 2023 in Katy. The students are protesting a new policy by the district where parents of students in the Katy
ISD school system must be notified if their child asks to be identified as transgender under a new policy that
took effect Tuesday.

Katy ISD’s transgender policy under civil rights
investigation by Department of Education
By Claire Goodman
STA FF WRIT E R

The U.S. Department of Education
Civil Rights Office has opened an investigation into a Title IX complaint
against Katy ISD for potentially violating student civil rights with its
transgender policy.
As first reported by the Houston
Landing, Students Engaged in Advancing Texas, a student-led activist
group, announced in a news release
Monday that federal officials are investigating whether the district’s
transgender policy is discriminatory.
“The district is committed to offering equal educational opportunities
to our entire community,” said Katy
ISD media relations representative
Nick Petito. “While we have received
the OCR filing and deny any wrongdoing, we are committed to remaining
fully cooperative and responsive
throughout the process.”
The activist group filed the lawsuit
in November, targeting the district’s

policy, which instituted multiple new
mandates toward transgender students, including a measure that requires teachers to “out” a student if
they reveal to a staff member that they
are transgender.
The measure narrowly passed 4-3
in August, with board members Rebecca Fox, Lance Redmon and Dawn
Champagne opposing the policy, and
Morgan Calhoun, Mary Ellen Cuzela
and Amy Thieme, alongside board
president Victor Perez, supporting it.
At least 23 students have been reported to their parents as transgender
since the policy was activated, a public information request from the district shows.
“The Department of Education
opening an investigation marks a significant step forward in holding Katy
ISD accountable for its actions and
ensuring that transgender students
are equally protected under federal
civil rights laws,” said Cameron Samuels, an organizer of the activist
group. “SEAT applauds the depart-

ment’s response to our complaint and
looks forward to cooperating fully
with the investigation process.”
In the months following the policy’s enactment, several student-led
protests sprung up across the district.
“Tides are finally turning,” said
Tompkins High School student
Jarred Burton, who helped organize a
protest in August. “While this policy
has undoubtedly put students in danger, we’ve risen up to become more informed, outspoken and powerful. We
will not sit idle while our school district tries to write us out of existence
through policy. We deserve a seat at
the table, and we’re one step closer to
getting there.”
In the federal complaint, the group
seeks a resolution that repeals Katy
ISD’s policy, provides direct resources to students impacted by the district’s policy, establishes professional
LGBTQ+ inclusion training for district personnel and codifies nondiscrimination protections for gender
identity, the news release said.

Don McCoy and Joel Patterson to
square off in Fulshear mayoral runoff
By Claire Goodman
STA FF WRIT E R

The Fulshear mayoral race is heading
to a runoff after none of the three candidates managed to secure 50.1% of votes.
Don McCoy and Joel Patterson will
square off for the seat in the June 15 election. Dominic Giametta was knocked out
of the running.
Patterson secured 480 votes at 42.7%,
and McCoy received 479 votes, or
42.62.%, city documents show. Giametta
trailed with 14.68%, or 165 votes.
Patterson is a current Fulshear City
Council member.
McCoy currently serves as the president of the Fulshear-Katy Chamber of
Commerce.
Patterson said he wasn’t surprised by
the close race with McCoy, given McCoy’s
presence in the Fulshear community.
“I expected him to have a large turnout, so I knew it would be tight,” Patterson said. “He moved here last year so he
could run for mayor, and I think he’s leveraged his role as chamber president for
his campaign.”

McCoy said he was proud to have the
race come to a runoff.
“I think, especially since this is my
first time putting my name in for a political office and then running against a sixyear incumbent council member, to bring
it to a runoff and actually be virtually tied
is pretty amazing,” McCoy said.
Patterson stated that his top priorities
as mayor are to fill the vacant city manager position, improve infrastructure projects and fund the $127 million capital improvement plan for 2025.
“It’s critically important to get someone who has municipal government experience, and there are some very critical
infrastructure projects we’re going to address this year,” Patterson said.
McCoy plans to focus on listening to
the needs of his constituents if elected.
“I’m here to listen, and I think that’s
what a representative is,” McCoy said.
“My vision is to take what residents want
and see how we can make those things
make sense. We have a lot of rapid
growth going out here, and we want to
make sure that the town can be economically viable for the future.”

Katy Independent School District is projecting
a $7.8 million deficit in the 2024-25 fiscal year,
Chief Financial Officer Chris Smith said at Monday’s board of trustees meeting.
In the 88th Texas Legislature, lawmakers declined to increase the basic allotment per student,
Smith said, and rising inflation has decreased the
“buying power” of district funds.
Student allotment has stagnated at $6160 since
2019. In the same time span, inflation rates have
ballooned by 19%.
Katy ISD Superintendent Ken Gregorski in
March sent an email to district parents blasting
Texas legislators for failing to allocate funds to
public schools, noting that the district would be
facing “a challenging budget situation” as a result.
“Over the past few years, Katy ISD and public
schools across Texas have faced significant budgetary difficulties due to insufficient state funding,” Gregorski said in the email. “Despite a Texas
constitutional mandate for the ‘support and maintenance of an efficient system of public free
schools,’ our legislature has continued to ignore
its duty to increase public school districts’ primary source of funding per child — the basic allotment.”
As a result, Smith cited, the district has a deficit
of about $105 per child.
The district had initially projected a $32 million
deficit, Smith said, but staff was able to reduce
that projection to $7.8 million with significant
budget cuts and delaying certain purchases for
the next fiscal year. Specifics on those cuts were
not immediately available.
The budget does not include an allotment for
teacher raises. A 1% salary increase to staff would
cost the district an additional $7.3 million, Smith
reported.
Trustee Rebecca Fox took issue with the lack of
consideration for teacher raises, positing that
without raises, teachers may seek employment
outside of the district.
“We’re in May, and (staff is) wondering, ‘What
am I going to do next? Where am I going next?
How am I going to pay my rent? Am I going to get a
raise?’” Fox said. “They’re very anxious to hear
from us.”
Gregorski said that the district could likely afford to give staff a “modest” 2% raise if the board
were to approve it.
District officials expect to present a final budget
to the board in August.

A6 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

CLASSIFIED

SUGAR LAND SUN | KATY RANCHER |

Merchandise | Real Estate | Auto | Auctions | Business Opportunities

TO ADVERTISE
Call (281) 378-1000
Marketplace.HoustonChronicle.com

Area
Latinos
play big
economic
role
By Jhair Romero

Employment
TO ADVERTISE:

recruitment@hcnonline.com

SENIOR CHARTERING MANAGER

Hafnia Pools Pte. Ltd.
Houston, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

Hafnia Pools Pte. Ltd. seeks Senior Chartering Manager for Houston,
TX office to oversee vessel positions and trades by maintaining
a detailed, expert-level knowledge of the Hafnia Pools fleet. Min.
req.: bach degree or equivalent in fleet management, business
administration, or related field plus six (6) years of experience in
spot and time chartering, Clean and Dirty Petroleum Products,
contract and terms negotiation and freight rate calculation for
vessels in the size of Handy, Medium Range, Long Range 1 and
Long Range 2; six (6) years of experience with each of the following
systems is required: Chartering Database, IMOS, Remark, Vortexa,
Prosmar, Mardocs, Recap Manager, Q88.com, PowerBI, Microsoft
Office, ICE chat, SMHI,Signal Maritime, Baltic Exchange, Worldscale.
In the alternative, successful candidates can demonstrate 10 years
of experience as outlined above. Any suitable combination of
education and experience is acceptable. Please send resume to
Attn: Mette Gandrup, General Manager/Head of Operations, 1800
West Loop South, Ste 1925, Houston, TX 77027, or email
mga@hafniabw.com using job ID JO-0424-10189, EEO/AA employer.
No calls.

IT BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE ENGINEER

Academy, Ltd.
D/B/A Academy Sports + Outdoors
Katy, TX
See Below to Apply

Ed pref/See Below
Yrs exp/See Below
Full-Time

Academy, Ltd. D/B/A Academy Sports + Outdoors has an opening
for IT Business Intelligence Engineer in Katy, Texas. Duties include:
Design and develop overall BI capabilities, including reporting and
analytical solution. Req’ts: Employer will a accept a minimum of
bachelor’s degree or foreign equivalent in Computer Science,
Computer Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related engineering field and 48 months of experience developing within a Business
Intelligence function using MicroStrategy BI technology stack or
similar leading BI tools. To apply: You must email your resume to
recruiter@academy.com referencing job code 10129. Incl. complete
contact information (incl. e-mail, day/evening phone, and mailing
address) on resume/application.

LEAD PRODUCTION BAKER

4220 Restaurant Group, LLC
dba Leven Baking Company
Houston, TX
See Below To Apply

Ed pref/See Below
Yrs exp/See Below
Full-Time

Lead Production Baker: 4220 Restaurant Group, LLC dba Leven
Baking Company; Houston TX 77074. Respble for creat’n o/GF
recipes for various baked goods such as bread, pastries, cakes,
& cookies. Req’s: H.S diplm +36 mos exp. as Baking Chef or
Baker. Knwldg o/bak’g technqs, materls, product’n processes, QC,
& technqs to maxmz prodctn & distribtn o/goods. Include use
o/functinl ingrdnt types, ben’fits, cntrl, handl’g condtns, reduc’g
agents, & enzymes. Dmnstrbl use o/bak’g equipment, & select’n
o/equpmnt for product’n, for efficient handl’gg o/ingrdnts for
optimal prsrvt’n & maintain high quality stndrds for bakery.
Ad’tnl worksite in Harris County, TX. Email CV:
info@levenbankingcompany.com

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER

Boucher Design Group, LLC
Bellarie, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

Generate innovative design concepts that meet client needs
& project objectives & translate them into detailed construction
docs for permitting & construction. Prep architectural deliverables
on projects. Review submittals & finish samples, conduct site visits,
address tech issues, & maint quality control during construction.
Provide tech expertise & guidance to project team to ensure
successful project delivery. Reqs. Bach’s in Architecture, or foreign
equiv, & 6 mnths of relev exp. mail resumes to HR, Boucher Design
Group, LLC, 6802 Mapleridge St Ste. 200 Bellarie, TX 541310.

SOFTWARE ANALYSTS

Dataquad, Inc.
Houston, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

Software Analysts, Houston, TX: Design, develop & modify
software systems using UNIX, SQL, Oracle, PLSQL. Develop
& direct software systems testing & validation procedures,
programming, & documentation. Travel/relocate to various
unanticipated U.S. locs. Send res to: Dataquad, Inc., 2000 S
Dairy Ashford Rd, Suite 405, Houston, TX 77077.

WEB DEVELOPER II

ManhattanLife Insurance
and Annuity Company
Houston, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

WEB DEVELOPER II: Bachelor’s degree in Systems
Engineer or equivalent, 2 years of work experience. “The
Employer requires 100% telecommuting during the work week,
but must live in Miami-Dade County” Send resume to
marthaboudreaux@manhattanlife.com. Houston, TX 77092.
ManhattanLife Insurance and Annuity Company

SOFTWARE DEVELOPERS

Unikon IT Inc.
Katy, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

Software Developers: Develop, test and implement new software
programs. Design and update software databases. All jobs based
in Katy, TX but require travel/relocation to unanticipated locations
throughout U.S. Positions require varying levels of education/work
experience. Email resume to careers@unikonit.com or mail to Unikon
IT, Inc., 440 Cobia Dr, Suite 1504, Katy, TX 77494. No walk-ins.

SOFTWARE ENGINEER

Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc.
Houston, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. seeks Software Engineer
for Houston, TX to develop, test, debug and implement code for
existing and new business applications. Role holder will be eligible
to work remotely with manager approval. Send resume+cvr ltr to:
TARecruitment@Broadridge.com. Ref. code required: Software
Engineer. 7793959

QA MANAGER

Trellis Energy Software LLC
Houston, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

QA MANAGER - Houston, TX - Trellis Energy Software LLC - Lead QA
members in the development & execution of test automation &
manual testing. M+4y/B+6y reqd. Position may be located anywhere
in the U.S.; Email kelli.christopher@trellisenergy.com
w/ job ref #QAM-AG in subj line.

STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING PROFESSIONAL CAREER
LEVEL
Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc
Houston, TX
See Below to Apply

Ed pref/See Below
Yrs exp/See Below
Full-Time

Structural Engineering Professional Career Level sought by Jacobs
Engineering Group, Inc., Houston, TX: Develop, manage schedule,
budget, staffing forecasts for structural scope. Telecom. allowed.
Apply at: https://careers.jacobs.com/. Req#: ELE0002D3.

STAF F WRI TE R

713.362.6868
legals@chron.com
Non Discriminatory Policy
The USA Tai Chi Academy admits students of any race, color, national origin,
and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at
the school. It does not discriminate on
the basis of race, national origin, and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic
and other school-administered programs.

The Annual tax return for the Morillon
Family Foundation (Trustees: William and
Marie Anne Morillon) is available for inspection thru October 15, 2024. By Appointment Only – Phone 281-395-4316
THE FOLLOWING VEHICLES ARE BEING
STORED AT US 69 ENTERPRISE 11356
Eastex Fwy, Houston, TX 77093 IF YOU
HAVE ANY INTEREST PLEASE CALL 281227-1550.
NEWSPAPER NOTICE
C4040161 2017 CHEVROLET SILVERADO
RCH4485 (TX) 3GCPCREC3HG377460
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX C4040150
2012 CHEVROLET CAMARO SGM0149
(TX) 2G1FB1E31C9201339 TWD FRM
11358 EASTEX C4040152 2024 NISSAN
KICKS TPK6106 (TX)
3N1CP5CV7RL474253 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX FRWY C4040153 2003 CHEVROLET TRACKER HMZ1586 (TX)
2CNBE13C036919591 TWD FRM 113258
EASTEX C4040154 2018 INFINITI QX80
PXG0027 (TX) 5N1DL0MN2JC518217
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX FRWY
C4040210 2005 MINI COOPER PRJ5112
(TX) WMWRC33515TJ69986 TWD FRM
11358 EASTEX C4040256 2008 CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER 424CRZ (LA)
1GNDS13S082262039 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX FRWY
2004 MOTORCYCLE
LW0XCGLCX40023035 NO PLATE
C4040259 2020 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER SVF3009 (TX) JA4AD3A36LZ044081
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX C4040275 1981
MERCEDES BENZ 300SD CDX36C (TX)
WDBCB20A4BB13013 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX C4040283 2014 HONDA CR-V
DHH4043 (TX) 2HKRM3H30EH518549
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX C4040303
2019 RAM 1500 RKN7112 (TX)
1C6RRELT2KN724253 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX C4040305 2009 NISSAN ALTIMA CT5L038 (TX) 1N4AL21E29N489167
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX C4040306
2014 DODGE JOURNEY TONLY04 (TX)
3C4PDCBG8ET126650 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX C4040307 2017 HYUNDAI TUCSON TJL3347 (TX)
KM8JU3AC6CU468570 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX C4040308 2006 TOYOTA AVALON NMB4459 (TX)
4T1BK36B46U091753 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX
FINAL NEWSPAPER NOTICE
C4030387 2017 FORD FUSION PCX8805
(TX) 3FA6P0LU7HR384798 TWD FRM
11358 EASTEX FRWY C4030388 2018
DODGE JOURNEY STW8269 (TX)
3C4PDDEG8JT353462 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX FRWY C4030411 2013 KIA RIO
KHP1017 (TX) KNADN4A3XD6233757
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX FRWY
C4030412 2019 MITSUBISHI OUTLANDER PYV8594 (TX) JA4AD3A30KZ049694
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX FRWY
C4030413 2015 CHEVROLET CRUZE
FWC4376 (TX) 1G1PC5SB6F7188551 TWD
FRM 11358 EASTEX FRWY
Correction for ad 34330771.
THE FOLLOWING VEHICLES ARE BEING
STORED AT US 69 ENTERPRISE 11356
Eastex Fwy, Houston, TX 77093 IF YOU
HAVE ANY INTEREST PLEASE CALL 281227-1550.
NEWSPAPER NOTICE
C4040301 2004 MOTORCYCLE NO
PLATE (TX) LW0XCGLCX40023035 TWD
FRM 8012 BELTWAY 8 C4040362 2024
TOYOTA COROLLA TZR1534 (TX)
5YFS4MCE2RP186588 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX FRWY C4040363 2011 TOYOTA
CAMRY DMN1461 (TX)
2T1BU4EE3BC616325 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX C4040388 2014 CHEVROLET
EQUINOX TWZ7787 (TX)
1GNALBEK4EZ135025 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX FRWY C4040398 2013 HONDA
ACCORD TKY2935 (TX)
1HGCT1B81DA010955 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX C4040404 2014 JEEP CHEROKEE TCC2862 (TX) 1C4PJLDXEW118490
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX C4040430 2015
FORD FOCUS RKL1130 (TX)
1FADP3F22FL244947 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX
FINAL NEWSPAPER NOTICE
C40400445 2019 KIA OPTIMA LMF6899
(TX) 5XXGT4L38KG285843 TWD FRM
11358 EASTEX C4040062 2014 NISSAN
SENTRA MMT4448 (TX)
3N1AB7APEY252245 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX C4040063 2015 NISSAN ALTIMA NPN6927 (TX) 1N4AL3AP0FN403132
TWD FRM 11358 EASTEX C4040065
2006 PONTIAC TORRENT PCW1368 (TX)
2CKDL73F166067250 TWD FRM 11358
EASTEX
The following vehicles were towed to and
may be retrieved @ 1700 Brittmoore Rd.
Houston, Texas 77043
713-468-4242. VSF#:0000516
2012 WABASH 1JJV532D4CL716581
$5301.01
1999 LEXUS JT8BH28FXX0164371
$466.40
2022 FORD 1FDXE4FN0NDC03282
$441.66
2014 NISSAN 1N4AL3AP9EX423048
$441.66
2017 NISSAN 3N1AB7AP8HY345736
$392.19
2014 CHEVY 1G1PC5SB5E7417901
$416.93
2005 KAWASAKI KZT00AE105535
$392.19
2011 CHEVY 1G1ZB5E1XBF235580
$392.19

Houston-area Latinos
have played an outsized
role in growing the region’s economy in recent
years, according to a study
published this week.
From 2018 to 2021, Latinos were responsible for
68.3% of the metropolitan
area’s gross domestic
product growth despite
making up about 40% of
the population.
The study, funded by
Bank of America, found
the share of Latinos in the
Houston metro’s labor
force grew by 39% from
2010 to 2021, compared to
only 14% for non-Latinos
in the same period. Researchers from California
Lutheran University and
UCLA’s Center for the
Study of Latino Health
and Culture produced the
analysis.
Researchers cited the
Houston area’s young Latino population to explain
the economic boost in recent years. (About a third
of the city’s Hispanic population is under 18, and
43% is between 18 and 44,
according to the University of Houston’s Hobby
School of Public Affairs.)
The Cal Lutheran and
UCLA study said the metro’s coming-of-age Latinos are “overwhelmingly”
second- and third-generation Americans, and the
number of Latinos with a
bachelor’s degree grew at
a rate 2.9 times that of nonLatinos from 2010-21.
These shifts, though
more evident in the Houston area, have also played
out on larger scales despite the disproportionately high mortality rates
Latinos faced in the first
years of the COVID-19
pandemic.
The study said that in
2021, Latinos contributed
$581.2 billion to the Texas
economy, with the top sectors being finance and real
estate, government, professional and business
services, mining and
quarrying, and construction.
And across the country,
the Latino population’s total economic output in
2021 was $3.2 trillion. The
Latino GDP grew by 7.1%
that year, about 2% more
than that of non-Latinos.
Murillo said she hopes
studies like this will influence how companies,
from small businesses to
large corporations, market toward and hire Latino
consumers and workers.
The purchasing power of
U.S. Latinos reached $3.4
trillion in 2021, according
to an Arizona State University study published
last year.
A recent census data release revealed that the
Houston
metropolitan
area grew by almost
140,000 last year, with
Harris County accounting
for more than a third of
that growth.
Although the U.S. Census Bureau won’t release
more detailed demographic information —
such as population by age,
sex, race and Hispanic origin — until this summer,
the data shows much of
the county’s population
growth was fueled by international migration.
More than 41,100 immigrants moved to Harris
County last year, second
in the country only to
Florida’s
Miami-Dade
County. We won’t know
exactly how much Latinos
contributed to that population growth until June,
but Murillo sees a clear
trend.
“As go Hispanics, so
goes Houston,” Murillo
said. “And the rest of the
country for that matter.”

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A7

SUGAR LAND SUN | KATY RANCHER |

EVs make bestseller list
For first time, 2 Teslas ranked among
area’s most popular models last year
By Nusaiba Mizan
STAFF WRIT E R

Two all-electric vehicles, both from Tesla, became the first of their kind
to rank among the Houston area’s bestselling models last year, according to
Houston-based InfoNation
Inc.
Tesla’s Model Y SUV debuted on the list at No. 10
while the Model 3 made its
first appearance at No. 18.
More than 5,000 of the
Model Y and 4,000 Model
3s were sold last year. Tesla
cut the prices of both in
2023.
RoShelle Salinas, executive vice president of the
Houston
Automobile
Dealers Association, called
the rising popularity of
electric vehicles “exciting
to see for the first time for
us.”
“They’ve got plenty of
variety to choose from,
which makes it easier to
commit to an electric vehicle — along with partners
like the energy providers
and groups like Evolve
Houston, and the different
apps and charging stations,” Salinas said.
InfoNation’s ranking uses state Department of Motor Vehicle records from
Harris and nine surrounding counties.
It will surprise no one
that the region’s top-selling
vehicles are pickups. The
Ford F-150 topped the list
in 2022 and 2023, while the
Chevrolet Silverado 1500
was second both years.
Pickups occupied four of
the top 10 spots.
Sales of both models,
however, declined in the
Houston area and nationally, InfoNation wrote in its
report. Nearly 15,000
F-150s and10,000 Silverado
1500s were sold in the re-

Kirk Sides/Staff photographer

The Ford F-150 pickup truck was the top-selling
vehicle model in the Houston region in 2022 and
2023, according to sales data compiled by
InfoNation Inc. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 was
second. Pickups occupied four of the top 10 spots.

HOUSTON AREA’S BEST-SELLING
VEHICLES
1. Ford F-150 pickup (14,934 sales)
2. Chevrolet Silverado 1500 pickup (10,252)

Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer

Houston traffic, including Interstate 10, is among the worst in the country.

ONE OF THE WORST
Forbes released its list of the most time consuming
U.S. cities to drive in. Here’s where Houston ranks

3. Toyota RAV4 SUV (9,002)

By Shakari Briggs

4. Toyota Camry (8,397)

STA F F W R I T ER

5. Nissan Rogue SUV (7,552)
6. Honda CR-V SUV (6,739)
7. Ram 1500 pickup (6,693)
8. Mazda CX-5 SUV (6,182)
9. Toyota Tundra pickup (5,889)
10. Tesla Model Y SUV (5,870)

gion in 2023.
In Houston, two SUVs
jumped into the top 10: The
Honda CR-V rose to sixth
from No. 18 in 2022 while
the Mazda CX-5 jumped to
eighth from No. 22. SUVs
grabbed five of the top 10
spots.
“You get what you need

as a higher-level vehicle,
especially in the high waters that we can sometimes
see in Houston,” Salinas
said. “You can fit your family, and all of their sporting
equipment.”
Among sedans, the Toyota Camry was the top
choice at No. 4.
The Chevrolet Silverado
1500 pickup truck was
the No. 2 selling vehicle
in the Houston region in
2023, according to data
compiled by Houstonbased InfoNation, Inc.
Charles Krupa/Associated
Press

Driving in Texas continues to get a bad rap.
Houston ranked as one of
the worst cities to drive
in, according to a new report by Forbes Advisor.
“Drivers lose an average of 11 hours per year in
traffic in the Houston,
Texas area,” the report
says. “It ranks 12th worst
for access to car maintenance, thanks in part to
the Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land metro
area having the seventh
fewest car repair shops at
1.89 per 10,000 residents.”
Houston, which landed
fourth on the list, received a score of 96.52,
with 100 being the worst
possible score. Additionally, the report showed
Space City ranked 12th
worst for overall driving
experience. Analysts also
found drivers experience
the 11th longest average

commute time at 30 minutes and nine seconds,
not to mention Houston
tied with Atlanta when it
comes to the amount of
time drivers spend in
traffic — 74 hours annually.
The report indicated
drivers in the Houston
metro area spend the 11th
highest amount on gas,
$1,257 a year, because of
traffic congestion. Houston had the 12th slowest
average speed in downtown at 16 miles per hour.
“Travel on the nation’s
highways and streets
climbed by 2.1% in 2023 to
3.3 trillion miles, setting a
new annual record, according to the Department of Transportation,”
the report says. “However, drivers in some cities
have it worse than others
during their daily commute due to frequent car
accidents, heavy traffic
congestion, high gas prices and challenges with ac-

cessing
car
maintenance.”
Forbes Advisor analysts compared 47 of the
most populated cities
across 15 metrics to figure
out the worst cities to
drive in. The metrics categories included driving
experience, safety, cost of
car ownership and access
to car maintenance. Ultimately, Oakland topped
the list as the worst to
drive in followed by Miami,
San
Francisco,
Houston and Philadelphia. Two cities in North
Carolina — Charlotte and
Raleigh — ended up being
the best cities to drive in,
per the data.
“Drivers in Oakland,
California have the worst
driving experience out of
the 47 cities we evaluated,
thanks to its high number
of fatal car accidents,
steep gas prices and a
high average commute
time workers face each
day,” the report says.

A8 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

A

SUGAR LAND SUN | KATY RANCHER |

SUGAR LAND SUN | KATY RANCHER |

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A9

A10 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

SUGAR LAND SUN | KATY RANCHER |

!

Look
Lookfor
foryour
yourgrocery
grocerycoupons
couponsinside!
inside!

YOURKATYNEWS.COM

•

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

• VOL. 29, NO. 39

•

50 CENTS

MONTHS

NE

Look
Lookfor
foryour
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grocerycoupons
couponsinside!
inside!
ADVICE: Explaining Medicare enrollment rules. A2
BAY !REA

HE �ITIZEN

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coupons inside

LEAGUE CITY | FRIENDSWOOD | CLEAR LAKE
WEBSTER | SEABROOK | KEMAH
YOURBAYAREANEWS.COM

•

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

• VOL. 48, NO. 20

•

50 CENTS

AN EDITION OF

Kirk Sides/Staff photographer

Local residents are familar with what can happen during hurrican season. Water soaked debris is piled up outside the home of former CCISD Athletic Director Bill
Daws in League City in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey in September 2017.

CALM BEFORE
THE STORM?

Meteorologists predicting record hurricane season this year
By Justin Ballard
NEWS RO OM ME TEOROL OGIST

The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season starts June 1 and already some are
suggesting it’ll be one for the record
books. But is it still too soon to declare
how active the season will be?
Let’s first dissect why the upcoming hurricane season is expected to be
a busy one.

Why a busy season is expected

This year’s hurricane season is expected to be a busy one for two main
reasons: the emergence of La Niña in
the equatorial Pacific and record
warmth in the tropical Atlantic.
La Niña is a naturally occurring
event marked by unusually cooler sea
surface temperatures in the equatorial waters of the eastern Pacific Ocean.

BAY AREA
INSIDER
Reporter Yvette Orozco
delivers top stories from your
neighborhood to your inbox twice
a week - education, real estate,
new businesses and more.
Scan the QR code to sign up for
free

Staff file photo

Debris covers Interstate 45 headed toward Galveston Island after the
passing of Hurricane Ike in September 2008.

HEALTH

INTERMITTENT
FASTING
The idea behind intermittent
fasting is that brief periods of
little to no caloric intake will
help you lose weight.
PAGE A6

Strong trade winds blow from east to
west during La Niña, pushing warmer surface waters toward Asia and
Australia. This causes cold, nutrientrich waters to well up along the west
coast of South America.
This event can trigger climate and
weather patterns around the world,
including warmer and drier conditions in Texas.
Why is La Niña viewed as a harbinger of an increase in tropical systems, including hurricanes? La Niña
often lessens wind shear across the
Atlantic basin.
Wind shear is typified by changes
in wind speed and direction the higher you go, and it is highest during the
early and latter half of the season. The
presence of wind shear can dramatically alter the structure of tropical
Hurricane continues on A9

A2 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

BAY AREA CITIZEN

ADVICE
HOME IMPROVEMENT

Zinsser hits the spot for antique furniture
Many of my
customers have
furniture from
their parents or
relatives that
mean so much
Trudy
to them. It
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might have been
Mom’s dressing
H AP PY
H A N DYMA N
table, or Dad’s
bedside table
and just looking at them brings
back many memories. I have a
few things that I have kept
from my late husband, and I
just like having them in the
house...a sweet remembrance
of the time we had together.
But sometimes the furniture
pieces that you get from your
family have been in storage. I
have this friend who collected
from her mom’s estate. The
furniture and clothing had
been stored in a barn. A very

stinky barn. And the furniture
had adsorbed all the odor.
She told me about all the
different things she tried before
coming to me. She tried airing
it out, she put charcoal in the
drawers, she cleaned it with a
degreaser, but the furniture
smelled so bad she couldn’t
keep it in the house. So she
asked me for help.
Zinsser makes great primers.
Primers for sheetrock that is
crumbling, primers for peeling
paint and a primer for odor.
Older furniture is made so well,
all wood no composite or laminates and that old wood can be
a sponge absorbing odors.
Odor Killing Primer can be
painted on a surface, and it will
seal in the offensive smell. My
friend sealed all the drawers
and the inside of the drawer.
Then she wanted to put a new

finish on the outside of the
furniture, and I suggested Varathane. Her pieces now made
their way into the house.
Another way to use Zinsser
is on kitchen cabinets. If you
had smoke damage from a
kitchen fire and nothing gets
rid of the odor in the cabinets.
You don’t have to have your
whole kitchen torn down. Try
Zinsser first. I used it on my
kitchen cabinets because the
previous owner was a smoker.
That smoke permeated into the
cabinets and when I would
leave for a trip and come backthe whole house had this lingering smell like someone had
been smoking inside my house.
When I finally figured out
what was causing the odor…..I
used Zinsser. All I had to do
was seal the inside of all the
cabinets, and there was no

lingering odor when I returned
from the trip. And this primer
goes on milky so you can see
where you have applied the
primer and then dries clear.

Now to some great
email…..

Question: After listening
to your Saturday afternoon
show on WOAI, I have decided to remove the silicone
caulk in my shower. So how
can I remove the caulk and
what caulk would you suggest that I replace for the
silicone?
Answer: Contractor’s DeSolv-It is great for removing
silicone caulk. First, use a single edged razor blade to cut the
caulk right down the middlw
and along each side. Then
spray the caulk with De-Solv-It.
Spray every 15 minutes for an

hour. Then re-caulk with Sashco Sealant Clean Seal. It has a
7-year guarantee to resist mildew. Allow 48 hours to cure.
Question: I have slippery
steps on a small outdoor
deck. I know that you paint
them with a texture paint,
but I love the color of the
deck and I don’t want to
change that – so is there
something else that is not an
abrasive tread.
Answer: Absolutely yes!
There is a tread that is soft to
the touch but will provide traction and a safe step. They are
called Handi Treads. I like
them because they are translucent and don’t stand out on the
deck. You can use Handi
Treads on wet surfaces also like
in the tub and shower.
www.happyhandyman.com

HEALTH CARE

Medicare enrollment process explained
Toni: I need
to make the
right Medicare
decision because I turn 65
in August and
have
not had a
Toni
health plan for
King
2 years. I do
M E D ICA RE
not know
ADV IC E
where to start
or what to do.
My friends are advising me if
I do not sign up for Medicare
when I turn 65, I will be making a major Medicare mistake.
Can you please simplify the
Medicare enrollment process?
Thanks, Toni
Cynthia, Alvin

Hi Cynthia: Medicare is exploding with an American turning 65 every 8 seconds.
The Medicare basics America
needs to know are:

1) Remember to enroll at the

right time:

a) Turning 65 and receiving
your Social Security check, your
“Welcome to Medicare” kit will
be mailed to you with your
Medicare card 90 days before
you turn 65.
b) Turning 65 and NOT receiving your Social Security check and
not working full time with true
employer group health insurance from either you or your
spouse’s work, you may want to
enroll in Medicare Parts A and
B online via www.ssa.gov.
c) Turning 65, working full-time
with “true” employer group health
insurance whether through your
or your spouse’s employer benefits may want to delay enrolling
in Medicare until you or your
spouse retire or are laid off.

2) Medicare is not free

Medicare covers a lot and
there is a cost associated with
Medicare Parts A and B. The

premium for Part A is at no cost
if you worked 10 years or 40
quarters and paid Medicare
taxes. Medicare Part B has a
premium which is means-tested
depending on your annual income. In 2024, most Medicare
beneficiaries pay $174.70 each
month for their Part B premium. Medicare Part A (hospital)
deductible for 2024 is $1,632, not
once a year but is every 60 days
or 6 times a year. The 2024
Medicare Part B deductible is
$240 once a year with Medicare
paying 80% of the Medicareapproved amount and you paying the remaining 20%.

3) Learn the different
Medicare Parts (A, B, C and
D)
Original Medicare is Medicare Parts A and B which covers hospital, medical and provider expenses. Medicare Part
C, known as Medicare Ad-

vantage plan, is another way of
receiving your Medicare benefits. Part D is the Medicare
Prescription Drug plan that can
be a stand-alone plan with Original Medicare and a Medicare
Supplement, or with a Medicare
Advantage plan that includes a
prescription drug plan.

4) “Original” Medicare

Original Medicare Parts A
and B have no network. Medicare Part A covers in-patient
hospital, skilled nursing/rehab
facility, home health and hospice care. Medicare Part B covers doctor services whether at
the office or surgical care, outpatient surgery/services, lab/Xrays, MRIs, durable medical
equipment, and preventative
services.

5) Medicare Advantage Plan
(MAPD)
You must be enrolled in Orig-

inal Medicare to qualify for a
Medicare Advantage Plan and
can select various Medicare
Advantage plans (Medicare Part
C) such as an HMO or PPO
plans that are offered by private
insurance companies. A MAPD
plan has an insurance provider
network with health care professionals or facilities that provide lower in-network rates.
You do not use your Medicare
(red, white, and blue) card because Medicare will pay the
MAPD plan for your care. You
will have co-pays, deductibles
and maximum out-of-pocket
costs associated with your
medical care.
Confused about Medicare Workshop in Katy is “Live” Thursday,
May 23 at 6 p.m. at Spring Creek
BBQ-Katy, 21000 Katy Frwy,
Katy, TX. 77449. RSVP:832/5198664 or visit www.tonisays.com.
Dinner not included.

BAY AREA CITIZEN

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A3

A4 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

BAY AREA CITIZEN

Mayor of Dickinson resigns
By Matt deGrood
STAFF WRIT E R

Sean Skipworth announced Tuesday that
he would resign as Dickinson’s mayor in November, saying he didn’t
want to remain in the position amid a fractious
atmosphere in the Galveston County city.
“I wish that I was
stronger, but everyone
has their breaking point
and I’ve arrived at

mine,” he wrote on Facebook.
The mayor’s decision
comes months after the
Chronicle
reported
about conditions in
Dickinson – a small
community of around
20,000 that has become
embroiled in constant
insults, accusations of
corruption and lawsuits.
In announcing his resignation,
Skipworth
said residents’ behavior
toward his family has

worsened
in
recent
months and that detractors are preparing to
mount a second recall
campaign after the first
failed.
“It has become acceptable to some to discuss
hanging me and purging
me from the earth,” he
said. “My school aged
child has been a subject
of smear. City employees
have been stalked across
state lines. In the last
month alone, I have had

to contend with escalating threats and friends
have been doxed on social media.”
He said conditions
have taken a toll on his
physical and mental
health, along with those
of his friends and family.
Skipworth will remain as mayor until after the November election, during which a special election will decide
who will take over, he
wrote.

Jon Shapley/Staff photographer

Sean Skipworth

Forbes released
its list of worst
U.S. cities to drive
in. Here’s where
Houston ranks
By Shakari Briggs
STAF F WRI TE R

Elizabeth Conley/Staff photographer

Birds fly by as people watch the Houston skyline as the sunsets on Monday, March 6, 2023 in Houston.

Area Latinos play big economic role
Study finds demographic group
responsible for about two-thirds of
regional GDP growth
By Jhair Romero
STA FF WRIT E R

Houston-area Latinos
have played an outsized
role in growing the region’s economy in recent
years, according to a study
published this week.
From 2018 to 2021, Latinos were responsible for
68.3% of the metropolitan
area’s gross domestic
product growth despite
making up about 40% of
the population.
The study, funded by
Bank of America, found
the share of Latinos in the
Houston metro’s labor
force grew by 39% from
2010 to 2021, compared to
only 14% for non-Latinos
in the same period. Researchers from California
Lutheran University and
UCLA’s Center for the
Study of Latino Health
and Culture produced the
analysis.
“Those increased numbers have allowed the region to grow and prosper,
and jobs have been

W

brought to these areas and
businesses,” said longtime Houston Hispanic
Chamber of Commerce
President Laura Murillo.
She added that Houston
suburbs with growing Latino populations, such as
Katy and Spring, are some
of the biggest beneficiaries
of the growth.
Researchers cited the
Houston area’s young Latino population to explain
the economic boost in recent years. (About a third
of the city’s Hispanic population is under 18, and
43% is between 18 and 44,
according to the University of Houston’s Hobby
School of Public Affairs.)
The Cal Lutheran and
UCLA study said the metro’s coming-of-age Latinos are “overwhelmingly”
second- and third-generation Americans, and the
number of Latinos with a
bachelor’s degree grew at
a rate 2.9 times that of nonLatinos from 2010-21.
These shifts, though
more evident in the Hous-

ship

ory

ton area, have also played
out on larger scales despite the disproportionately high mortality rates
Latinos faced in the first
years of the COVID-19
pandemic.
The study said that in
2021, Latinos contributed
$581.2 billion to the Texas
economy, with the top sectors being finance and real
estate, government, professional and business
services, mining and
quarrying, and construction.
And across the country,
the Latino population’s total economic output in
2021 was $3.2 trillion. The
Latino GDP grew by 7.1%
that year, about 2% more
than that of non-Latinos.
Murillo said she hopes
studies like this will influence how companies,
from small businesses to
large corporations, market toward and hire Latino
consumers and workers.
The purchasing power of
U.S. Latinos reached $3.4
trillion in 2021, according
to an Arizona State University study published
last year.
“I can’t imagine there’s
a corporation that can afford to overlook 45% of the

demographic,” she said,
referring to Latinos’ large
share of Houston’s population. “And these are not
anecdotal stories. These
are hard facts. It’s data.”
A recent census data release revealed that the
Houston
metropolitan
area grew by almost
140,000 last year, with
Harris County accounting
for more than a third of
that growth.
Although the U.S. Census Bureau won’t release
more detailed demographic information —
such as population by age,
sex, race and Hispanic origin — until this summer,
the data shows much of
the county’s population
growth was fueled by international migration.
More than 41,100 immigrants moved to Harris
County last year, second
in the country only to
Florida’s
Miami-Dade
County. We won’t know
exactly how much Latinos
contributed to that population growth until June,
but Murillo sees a clear
trend.
“As go Hispanics, so
goes Houston,” Murillo
said. “And the rest of the
country for that matter.”

Driving in Texas continues to get a bad rap. Houston ranked as one of the
worst cities to drive in, according to a new report by
Forbes Advisor.
“Drivers lose an average
of 11 hours per year in traffic in the Houston, Texas
area,” the report says. “It
ranks 12th worst for access
to car maintenance, thanks
in part to the Houston-The
Woodlands-Sugar Land
metro area having the seventh fewest car repair
shops at 1.89 per 10,000 residents.”
Houston, which landed
fourth on the list, received
a score of 96.52, with 100
being the worst possible
score. Additionally, the report showed Space City
ranked 12th worst for overall driving experience. Analysts also found drivers
experience the 11th longest
average commute time at
30 minutes and nine seconds, not to mention Houston tied with Atlanta when
it comes to the amount of
time drivers spend in traffic — 74 hours annually.
The report indicated
drivers in the Houston
metro area spend the 11th
highest amount on gas,
$1,257 a year, because of
traffic congestion. Houston
had the 12th slowest average speed in downtown at

16 miles per hour.
“Travel on the nation’s
highways and streets
climbed by 2.1% in 2023 to
3.3 trillion miles, setting a
new annual record, according to the Department
of Transportation,” the report says. “However, drivers in some cities have it
worse than others during
their daily commute due to
frequent car accidents,
heavy traffic congestion,
high gas prices and challenges with accessing car
maintenance.”
Forbes Advisor analysts
compared 47 of the most
populated cities across 15
metrics to figure out the
worst cities to drive in. The
metrics categories included driving experience,
safety, cost of car ownership and access to car
maintenance. Ultimately,
Oakland topped the list as
the worst to drive in followed by Miami, San Francisco, Houston and Philadelphia. Two cities in
North Carolina — Charlotte and Raleigh — ended
up being the best cities to
drive in, per the data.
“Drivers in Oakland,
California have the worst
driving experience out of
the 47 cities we evaluated,
thanks to its high number
of fatal car accidents, steep
gas prices and a high average commute time workers
face each day,” the report
says.

Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer

Houston traffic, including Interstate 10, is among
the worst in the country.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A5

BAY AREA CITIZEN

CALENDAR
MAY 15
Healthy carbs. Texas A&M
AgriLife Extension instructors detail an ideal diet for
disease risk reduction.
Noon-1 p.m. Evelyn Meador
Branch Library, 2400 N.
Meyer Ave. Free, registration required. Info:
tinyurl.com/23rfjhu3.
Dungeons & Dragons.
Middle and high school
players choose characters
and confront deadly perils.
4:15-5:45 p.m. Evelyn Meador Branch Library, 2400 N.
Meyer Ave. Free, registration required. Info:
tinyurl.com/7ffabthc.
Character sketch. Teens
learn to draw their favorite
video game characters. 7-8
p.m. Pearland Tom Reid
Library, 3522 Liberty Drive.
Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/m6uuuwj8.

MAY 16
Cinema Sequels. The Next
Chapter presents “The
Amazing Spider-Man 2”
(2014). 10:15 a.m.-1 p.m.
Clear Lake City-County
Freeman Branch Library,
16616 Diana Lane. Free.
Info:
tinyurl.com/4ywphbmw.
Talk time. English learners
polish their conversation
skills and learn new expressions. 1-2 p.m. West
Pearland Library, 11801
Shadow Creek Parkway.
Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/3cpe2ncx.
Watercolor work. Artists
use plastic bags and markers to create a print. 4:305:30 p.m. Clear Lake CityCounty Freeman Branch
Library, 16616 Diana Lane.
Free, registration required.
Info: tinyurl.com/2n7pxyuk.
Chill Zone. Elementaryage students unwind with
sensory activities, crafts
and reading. 4:30-5:30
p.m. Clear Lake City-County Freeman Branch Library,
16616 Diana Lane. Free,
tickets available 30 minutes before the program.
Info:
tinyurl.com/43tzu2m9.
Story time. A master naturalist leads craft hour.
4:30-5:30 p.m. Evelyn
Meador Branch Library,
2400 N. Meyer Ave. Free.
Info: tinyurl.com/3zahnet5.
Watercolor workshop.
Artists create bookmarks
using fundamental watercolor techniques. 5-6 p.m.
Evelyn Meador Branch

Library, 2400 N. Meyer Ave.
Free, registration required.
Info: tinyurl.com/4kch8sce.
Language lesson. Volunteer Eva Reyes leads
“Spanish for Absolute
Beginners.” 6-7 p.m.
Friendswood Library, 416 S.
Friendswood Drive. Free.
Info: tinyurl.com/2r9jnv9z.
Book launch. Author Barbara Gruener introduces
her newest book, “Birdy
and Mipps.” 6-7 p.m.
Friendswood Library, 416 S.
Friendswood Drive. Free.
Info:
tinyurl.com/ypw6n8vn.
Collage art. A volunteer
instructor provides materials and project guidance.
6-8 p.m. Friendswood
Library, 416 S. Friendswood
Drive. Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/5ct8aas2.
Regency Reads. Austenites, Anglophiles and romance lovers review
Amanda Grange’s “Mr.
Darcy’s Diary.” 7-8 p.m.
Friendswood Library, 416 S.
Friendswood Drive. Free.
Info:
tinyurl.com/4usvvmt5.

MAY 17
Computer refurb. Learn
how to install Linux on an
old laptop. 1-2 p.m. Evelyn
Meador Branch Library,
2400 N. Meyer Ave. Free,
registration required. Info:
tinyurl.com/h8e8rbwu.
Book sale. Shoppers
browse books, movies and
music. Proceeds support
library services and programs. 3-5:30 p.m. Friendswood Library, 416 S.
Friendswood Drive. $5-$10.
Info: tinyurl.com/27pbtf5k.
Meet the author. Girl
Scout Carrie Durso reads
from her children’s book,
“You’re Not Alone Little
Zebra.” 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Friendswood Library, 416 S.
Friendswood Drive. Free.
Info: tinyurl.com/2sbu7z29.

MAY 18
Morning prayer. Moe
Mays, executive director of
PCS Ministries, leads the
Friendswood Community
Prayer Breakfast. 7:10-9
a.m. Trinity Fellowship, 301
Leisure Lane. $10. Info:
RSVP to Steve Martin,
steve.n.martin@sbcglobal.net or 832-607-1734.
Book sale. Shoppers
browse books, movies and
music. Proceeds support
library services and programs. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

A New Dawn

Two-year-old terrier mix Bubba brings a sweet,
happy and loving energy to the halls of A New Dawn
Pet Adoption, 202 W. San Augustine St., staff say.
Bubba is vaccinated, neutered and
heartworm-negative, according to his bio. Learn
more at www.anewdawnpetadoption.org.
Friendswood Library, 416 S.
Friendswood Drive. $5-$10.
Info: tinyurl.com/mspj8yfs.
Teen advisory board.
Volunteers between the
ages of 12 and 18 earn
service hours as they share
thoughts about library
programming. 11 a.m.-noon.
West Pearland Library,
11801 Shadow Creek Parkway. Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/2duk86sn.
Writers Corner. Authors
discuss their work and best
practices. 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Clear Lake City-County
Freeman Branch Library,
16616 Diana Lane. Free.
Info: tinyurl.com/mr3nrvby.
3D orientation. Instructors
demonstrate the library’s
3D printing capabilities.
Children under 12 must be
accompanied by an adult.
5:30-7 p.m. Clear Lake
City-Freeman Branch Library, 16616 Diana Lane.
Free, registration required.
Info:
tinyurl.com/2p8nyxmp.
Mariachi music. Latin
Grammy nominated Mariachi Herencia de Mexico
performs. 8 p.m. The
Grand 1894 Opera House,
2020 Postoffice St. $25$88. Info:
www.thegrand.com.

MAY 20
Open garden. Visitors
meet Harris County Master
Gardeners and discover a
variety of exhibits, including vegetable, rose and
tropical. 8:30-11 a.m. Genoa
Friendship Gardens, 1210
Genoa Red Bluff Road.
Free. Info:
hcmga.tamu.edu.
Book club. Readers review
“Praying with Jane Eyre,”
by Vanessa Zoltan. 11
a.m.-12:30 p.m. Evelyn
Meador Branch Library,
2400 N. Meyer Ave. Free.
Info: tinyurl.com/jvh8na2k.
Page Turners. Book club
members check out “Beautiful Country,” by Qian Julie
Wang. Noon-1 p.m. Clear
Lake City-County Freeman
Branch Library, 16616 Diana
Lane. Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/4umdmwwd.
Advanced Spanish. Language learners polish their
skills with Miss Naheily. 3-4
p.m. Evelyn Meador Branch
Library, 2400 N. Meyer Ave.
Free, registration required.
Info: tinyurl.com/3h2zs2hp.
Learn Spanish. Beginners
practice their vocabulary.
4-5 p.m. Evelyn Meador
Branch Library, 2400 N.
Meyer Ave. Free, registration required. Info:

tinyurl.com/ttzsznuy.
Diabetes education. Registered nurse Charlotte
Wisnewski reviews physical activity guidelines for
disease management. 4-5
p.m. Friendswood Library,
416 S. Friendswood Drive.
Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/5n8jt8kn.
Play Testers. Competitors
take turns over blob-based
Puyo Puyo and blockbased Tetris. 5-6 p.m.
Friendswood Library, 416 S.
Friendswood Drive. Free.
Info:
tinyurl.com/mt5k3nhw.
Checkmate. Chess players
gather for friendly competition. Participants under 14
must be accompanied by
an adult. 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Friendswood Library, 416 S.
Friendswood Drive. Free.
Info:
tinyurl.com/msau52jb.
Novel Discussions. Readers share thoughts about
“Maame,” by Jessica
George. 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Pearland Tom Reid Library,
3522 Liberty Drive. Free.
Info: tinyurl.com/mr2jkey6.

MAY 21
Freeman Needlecrafters.
Hobbyists make progress
on knitting, crochet and
embroidery projects. 10
a.m.-noon. Clear Lake
City-County Freeman
Branch Library, 16616 Diana
Lane. Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/ycx5pta8.
Business counseling.
Mentors share expertise
with small business owners. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Evelyn
Meador Branch Library,
2400 North Meyer Ave.
Free, registration required.
Info: tinyurl.com/wdj7s5vx.
Green Thumb series.
Experts from Harris County
Master Gardeners provide
tips for differentiating
between beneficial and
damaging insects. 11 a.m.noon. Online. Free. Info:
facebook.com/harriscountypl/events.
Chair yoga. Health and
wellness coach Herban Girl
offers modified physical
poses as well as meditation and breathing techniques. 11 a.m.-noon. Evelyn
Meador Branch Library,
2400 North Meyer Ave.
Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/2c74txmf.
Intermediate Spanish.
Instructor Tiffany Salinas
guides adult learners
through vocabulary, gram-

mar and conversational
skills. 11 a.m.-noon. Friendswood Library, 416 S.
Friendswood Drive. Free.
Info: tinyurl.com/fpk3ykt6.
Shapes and sheets. Staff
provide an overview of the
library’s vinyl cutting and
Cricut equipment. Children
under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. 5:30-7
p.m. Clear Lake City-County Freeman Branch Library,
16616 Diana Lane. Free,
registration required. Info:
tinyurl.com/47uzr22e.
Laser workshop. Discover
the basics of creating with
a laser cutter. Participants
under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. 6-7:45
p.m. Evelyn Meador Branch
Library, 2400 N. Meyer Ave.
Free, registration required.
Info:
tinyurl.com/5n7xhk9m.

MAY 22
Story time. A City of Seabrook youth ambassadorship program includes
conservation-themed
stories, games and crafts. 11
a.m.-noon. Evelyn Meador
Branch Library, 2400 N.
Meyer Ave. Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/5azepav3.
Game development.
Learn to program using
Microsoft MakeCode Arcade. Children under 12
must be accompanied by
an adult. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Clear Lake City-County
Freeman Branch Library,
16616 Diana Lane. Free,
registration required. Info:
tinyurl.com/2k6d9236.
Yarn craft. Teens and
adults work on crochet,
knitting and needlepoint
projects. 4-5:30 p.m.
Friendswood Library, 416 S.
Friendswood Drive. Free.
Info:
tinyurl.com/22x48wmr.
Mental health. Wellness
coach Valerie Coyle presents “Anxiety SOS” and
offers coping skills. 7-8:30
p.m. Friendswood Library,
416 S. Friendswood Drive.
Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/3sjcxyzd.
Reading group. The Hoffstetter Science Fiction &
Fantasy Book Club meets
virtually for a discussion of
“Emperor’s Soul,” by Brandon Sanderson. Contact
Clear Lake City-County
Freeman Branch Library,
832-927-5420, for a meeting link. 7-9 p.m. Online.
Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/5xwxveve.

A6 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

BAY AREA CITIZEN

HEALTH

Intermittent fasting has its risks
Q: I read a recent headline
that said people who fast
intermittently have an increased risk of heart disease.
Is there merit
to this story?
A: Intermittent fasting is an
increasingly
common weightloss strategy. The
two most comDr. Keith
mon approaches
Roach
of intermittent
TO YOU R
fasting are alG O OD
H E ALT H
ternate-day
fasting (eating
nothing one day, then whatever
you want the next) and timerestricted feeding (eating at certain times in the day, usually in
an eight-hour time frame).
The published data on the
benefits of these diets show
short-term weight loss (i.e., 12
weeks), but no long-term weight
loss (one year), compared to
standard dietary advice.
There is evidence of potential
harm from intermittent fasting.
Studies have shown an increased
risk of eating disorders (particularly binge eating). One study
showed that disordered eating
worsened in those assigned to an
intermittent fasting schedule.
However, other studies do not
show this.
The concern for disordered
eating is highest among younger
and female populations, who are
most at risk for eating disorders,
and I advise against intermittent
fasting for a person with a history of an eating disorder.
The study you read about was
presented as an abstract in the
March meeting of the American
Heart Association; it is not yet
published or peer-reviewed. But
it did show that people who
report an intermittent-fasting
diet (specifically those who ate
over an eight-hour time frame)
were at a higher risk for death
from heart disease than those
who ate over a 12-16 hour time
frame.
However, this wasn’t a controlled study, and it is likely that
people who chose a time-restricted eating pattern already
had issues that put them at a
higher risk for heart disease.
Still, given the absence of
long-term benefits, I don’t generally recommend a time-restricted diet or intermittent fasting to
my patients.
My colleagues in weight medicine consider intermittent fasting
to be an option that helps a subset of people. There are some
people who do benefit from this
type of diet, and as long as they

Getty Images

The idea behind intermittent fasting is that brief periods of little to no caloric intake will help you lose weight, influence your
metabolism, help your circadian biology (sleep cycles) and enhance the gut microbiome.

are eating well and are being
monitored by their physician,
they should continue to follow
their diet if it is working for
them.
Q: As a person who has had
vocal cord paralysis after a
viral infection, I was fortunate not to need many of the
outlined modes of care. However, there was one additional
therapy that was utilized
within my plan of care —
speech therapy. It took a
while, but it worked well.
I suppose I may have some
lingering weakness. When I
experience a new viral upper
respiratory infection, I often
experience prolonged hoarseness. So, I pull out my exercise sheet once again, practice
the techniques and experience the same great results.
A: I thank the reader for
writing, as I should have recommended voice therapy for people
with vocal cord paralysis, as well
as those with other voice issues.
Some ear, nose and throat
physicians, speech-language
pathologists, respiratory therapists and voice coaches specialize in voice therapy.
Q: I read last year that

nearly 20 million Americans
were living with long COVID,
but I understand that the
number is much higher now.
Can you explain exactly what
long COVID is and how it is
treated?
A: Persistent symptoms after
an infection are not unique to
COVID. Many people will have
cough or asthma exacerbations
for weeks or even months after
a bad flu infection.
Likewise, many people have
symptoms (relating to many
different body systems) after
recovering from COVID. The
Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention and the World
Health Organization differ on
the amount of time after an
infection that has to pass for it
to be considered “long COVID”
— four weeks and three
months, respectively.
The most common physical
symptoms of long COVID are
fatigue, shortness of breath and
muscle aches. In one study of
people who survived the initial
wave of COVID, 45% had at
least one persistent physical
symptom.
The most common and persistent neurological/psychological symptoms are anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress

disorder and cognition problems (“brain fog”). Up to 25% of
COVID survivors had one of
these symptoms after their
physical recovery. This was
higher than other respiratory
viruses, such as influenza.
For those who required a stay
in the intensive care unit, over
75% had physical, psychological
or cognitive symptoms after
their discharge. These survivors
are at the highest risk for prolonged and severe long-COVID
symptoms.
There are many hypotheses
for the underlying cause of
long-COVID symptoms, and
although there is some evidence, it’s not clear whether
there is one single cause or
whether multiple mechanisms
are possible.
I wish I could get better results from the available treatments. Essentially, we treat each
patient’s concerns the same way
we would if the person hadn’t
had COVID. Emphasis on sleep,
nutrition and exercise are critical. But we should still recognize that many people with long
COVID have symptoms that are
very similar to myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome. As such, exercise should
not be overdone, since this can

worsen post-exertional symptoms.
Q: Do MRI tests, especially
of the head, contribute to
hearing loss even when earplugs are used?
A: MRI scans are very loud,
and exposure to loud noises can
cause hearing loss. However, it’s
the prolonged and repeated
exposure to loud noises that is
most likely to cause hearing
damage, so MRI scans are not
likely to be a problem. Earplugs
are still a good idea, though.
There is nothing about the
strong magnetic field in an MRI
machine that adversely affects
hearing. They just make a lot of
noise due to the moving electrical coils. Some machines can
cause levels up to 110 decibels —
as loud as a rock concert.
New MRI technology is coming that will dramatically reduce
the amount of noise made during a scan.
Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable
to answer individual letters, but
will incorporate them in the column
whenever possible. Readers may
email questions to ToYourGood
Health@med.cornell.edu or send
mail to 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803.

NAC supplement helped reader stop nail biting
sweetened beverages (European
Journal of Endocrinology, Jan. 3,
2024).
Others who would like to
learn more about this approach
can find further details along
with information on medications in our “eGuide to Acne
Solutions.” This online resource
is located under the Health
eGuides tab at Peoples
Pharmacy.com.

JOE AND TERESA
GRAEDON
PE OPLE ’S PHA RMACY

Q: I’ve been a nail-biter
since I was a kid. The only
way I had nice nails was to
spend a fortune at a salon.
When I learned that NAC
(N-acetylcysteine) is known
to help with BFRBs, bodyfocused repetitive behaviors,
such as nail biting, hair pulling or skin picking, I decided
to try it. After a few months
of taking this supplement, I
had beautiful, natural fingernails for the first time in my
entire life. A most welcome
extra benefit of NAC for me
is that I have absolutely no
desire for alcohol and my
appetite and craving for unhealthy foods are just gone.
My primary care doc is
fairly progressive, but he
knew nothing about NAC
other than its use in the
emergency room to reverse
acetaminophen overdose. He
gave me the stamp of approval after seeing the changes in
me. I take several supplements, but this one has had
the most profound and positive change in my overall
health.
A: Thank you so much for a
fascinating testimonial. As your
doctor told you, NAC is “the
mainstay of therapy for acet-

LWA-Dann Tardif/Getty Images

Very little research has been conducted on the use of N-acetylcysteine supplements to treat
body-focused repetitive behaviors, such as nail biting or hair pulling.

aminophen toxicity” (StatPearls,
Feb. 19, 2023). The Food and
Drug Administration approved
it for this indication in 1985.
There is far less research on
its use to control body-focused
repetitive behaviors with a compulsive component, such as nail
biting or hair pulling. A review
of the research noted that only a
few clinical trials of NAC for this
purpose have been conducted
(International Journal of Environmental Research and Public
Health, May 2022).

We haven’t seen any studies
showing that NAC can reduce
the urge for alcohol or junk
food. However, a small study in
Indonesia demonstrated that it
helped men stop smoking (Cureus, Feb. 16, 2024).
NAC has a good safety profile.
It may cause nausea, vomiting or
diarrhea, and occasionally, people develop reactions such as a
rash or flushing. Headache,
hives or fever may occur at the
high doses used to treat acetaminophen toxicity (American

Family Physician, Aug. 1, 2009).
Q: My 16-year-old daughter
had terrible acne. She gave
up sugar, dairy and gluten,
and her acne disappeared
within six weeks. She has
beautiful skin now.
A: It sounds like your daughter found a great solution. Studies show that avoiding milk and
other dairy products can be
helpful for those with acne (Nutrients, Oct. 17, 2023). It also
makes sense to avoid sugar-

Q: I have a question about
the amount of elemental zinc
that would be safe to take per
day. My supplement has 7
milligrams of elemental zinc
per tablet. When I looked it
up, the American Academy of
Family Physicians says that
the tolerable upper limit of
elemental zinc per day is 40
milligrams. How much zinc
could I take without interfering with copper?
A: The Recommended Dietary Allowance for Adults is 8
milligrams for women and 11
milligrams for men. Your question is sophisticated. Excess zinc
intake, which might occur at
doses of 50 milligrams/day for
weeks, can interfere with copper
absorption and reduce immune
function. The Food and Nutrition Board (FNB) at the National
Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine has established 40 milligrams daily as
the tolerable upper limit of zinc
for adults.
Write to Joe and Teresa Graedon in
care of King Features, 628 Virginia
Drive, Orlando, FL 32803, or
email them via their website:
PeoplesPharmacy.com.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A7

BAY AREA CITIZEN

CLASSIFIED

TO PLACE AN AD: Call (281) 378-1000

Merchandise | Real Estate | Auto | Auctions | Business Opportunities

TO PLACE AN AD:

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o
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methods accepted: VISA, MC, AME , Discover, check by phone. You may cancel
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(281) 378-1000
At Your Service

HoustonChronicle.com/Place-Legals legals@chron.com 713.362.6868

TO ADVERTISE: Call 281-378-1000
BUSINESS HOURS: 8am-5pm, Mon-Fri

City of Pasadena, Texas
Public Auction
Saturday, May 18, 2024

Outdoor

RIO GRANDE FENCE COMPANY
“A PROFESSIONAL FENCE COMPANY”

WOOD | WROUGHT IRON
PVC | CHAIN LINK
DRIVE GATES
ACCESS SYSTEMS
www.riograndefence.net
CONTACT US 713-862-7320
Remodel

G & H
Painting
Services
Painting
& Remodeling
Interior
• Kitchen &
Bathroom
• Sheet Rock
• Texture
• Trim Work
• Flooring

Saturday, May 18, 2024
3124 Red Bluff Rd.
Pasadena, Texas 77503
Viewing: Friday (May 17, 2024)
8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

No Money Down

Exterior

Insured & Bonded

• Hardi Plank-Siding
• Wood Replacement
• Fence & Decks
• Gutters
• Roofing
• Masonry Work

Family Owned & Operated
References Available

“No Job Too Big Or Small!”

281-235-4932
Repair

rent-a-spouse
All Home Repairs
Small or LARGE

Services

ART PAINTING
& REMODELING

Year

MAKE/Color/Style

License

VIN

UNIT #

Year

MAKE/Color/Style

License

VIN

211411

2003

PONTIAC/SILVER/
SUNFIRE

CP7C068

1G2JB12F237136247

240413

2003

FORD/WHITE/
E-SERIES CARGO

DW2T599

1FTRE14W93HB29471

230146

2005

FORD/BLUE/F-150

NONE

1FTPW12525KD04390

240416

2013

HUNDAI/SILVER/
SONATA

NONE

5NPEC4AB5DH649452

2000

HONDA/GRAY/
ODYSSEY

NONE

2HKRL1857YH605328
240428

1995

HONDA/BLACK/
ACCORD

X938094

1HGCE1821SA005216

2005

NISSAN/WHITE
/XTERRA

SSN7051

240431

2000

CHEVROLET/
GRAY/
SILVERADO

3MMDW

2GCEC19T3Y1109990

240440

2011

CHRYSLER/
BLACK/200

MCC3275

1C3BC2FG4BN580766

240444

2003

GMC/TAN/ENVOY
XL

NONE

1GKES16S636102309

240448

2006

NISSAN/SILVER/
ALTIMA

BVD3681

1N4AL11DX6N402614

240450

1984

HOMEMADE
TRAILER/
BLACK/ UTILITY

360546J

NONE

240460

2009

FORD/GRAY/
FUSION

NONE

3FAHP07ZX9R206397

240465

2000

SATURN/SILVER/
S-SERIES

FPS8823

1G8ZH5284YZ220498

240469

2019

MERCEDESBENZ/
RED/ GLA

SDW9455

WDCTG4EB2KU010528

240473

2012

CHEVROLET/
BLACK/
SONIC

NONE

1G1JA5SH9C4110214

231313

• Cabinets
• Bathroom &
Kitchen Remodeling
• Siding

• Fence
• Wood Repair

Tony Hyska - Owner
(832) 877-9565

artpaintingandremodeling@outlook.com

painting
Interior/Exterior Painting • Sheetrock
Textures • Power Washing
Like Us on Facebook
and Get $100 Off
Min. of $500

Insured,
References

Call Luis Fuentes

713-298-8393
www.smart-improvements.com

Employment
TO ADVERTISE:

recruitment@hcnonline.com

PROJECT MANAGERS

Preferred Engineering, LP
Nassau Bay, TX
See Below to Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Exp Req/See Below
Full-Time

PROJECT MANAGERS, Nassau Bay, TX: Review project proposal/
plan to determine time frame, funding limitations, procedures, staffing, & allotment of resources to various phases of mechanical and
industrial engineering projects. Prepare project reports for management, client, or other stakeholders. Some local travel req’d. Send res
to: Preferred Engineering, LP, careers@preferred-engineering.com

SR. PROGRAMMER/ANALYST III

American National Group Services LLC
League City, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

American National Group Services LLC (League City, TX) seeks a
Sr. Programmer/Analyst III to apply both technical concepts, skills
and knowledge of internal policies and procedures to solve complex
application development problems. Bachelor’s in Info Tech, Software
Eng., or closely rltd field. + 5 yrs. exp. Must be able to work in
various unanticipated locations throughout the U.S. To submit
resumes, apply online at jobs.americannational.com.

Planning your
garage sale?
www.southeasttexas.com

Advertise it!
281-378-1000

5N1AN08UX5C634365

231817

2009

ACURA/SILVER/
TSX

LCL5343

JH4CU26699C012649

232164

2011

TRAILER/SILVER/
ALUMINUM TRLR

NONE

4YMCL0816BT020429

2023

JEEP/RED/
WRANGLER
UNLIMITED

SGK2849

2007

TOYOTA/SILVER/
AVALON

NONE

240159

2005

TOYOTA/WHITE/
SEQUOIA

LLC4058

5TDZT34AX5S240339

240163

2001

CHEVROLET/
WHITE/
TAHOE

NBJ3143

1GNEC13TX1R187485

SATURN/SILVER/
S-SERIES

KTR2508

232340

240156

240170

2000

1C4JJXSJ3PW500113

4T1BK36B47U180191

1G8ZK5276YZ219006

240173

1998

FORD/
BLACK/F-150

BJY8057

1FTZX1764WKB54713

240175

2008

HONDA/SILVER/
CIVIC

NONE

2HGFA16548H524910

240182

2015

CHEVROLET/
WHITE/
SILVERADO

TKW1264

1GC1CUEGXFF127059

240474

2020

CHEVROLET/
SILVER/
SILVERADO

NONE

1GC1YNE76LF199749

240190

2010

VOLKSWAGEN/
WHITE/
JETTA

NONE

3VWRJ7AJXAM151203

240475

2012

CHEVROLET/
RED/
SONIC

NONE

1G1JA5SH9C4110214

240192

2009

TOYOTA/RED/
COROLLA

NONE

1NXBU40E49Z080789

240476

2017

GMC/BLUE/
SIERRA 2500HD

NONE

1GT12UEYXHF139470

240206

2007

ACURE/DARK
BLUE/TL

NONE

19UUA66207A002315

240478

2018

CHEVROLET/
BLACK/
TRAX

NONE

3GNCJLSB0JL189531

2007

CADILLAC/GRAY/
ESCALADE

RXJ2376

1GYFK63897R296029
240496

2004

CHEVROLET/
GREEN/
AVALANCE

NTB5845

3GNEC12T44G105563

2008

CHRYSLER/RED/
TOWN AND
COUNTRY

HLK0520

240502

2007

DODGE/ORANGE/
CALIBER

NHP4493

1B3HB48BX7D599617

2013

CADILLAC/BLUE/
ATS

NONE

240513

2002

FORD/GREEN/
EXPLORER

SNS2001

1FMDU65W72ZB15372

2001

CHEVROLET/
WHITE/
SILVERADO

JSY9954

24051

2004

OLDSMOBILE/
GOLD/
ALERO

CF8J569

1G3NL52F34C139183

FORD/BEIGE/
CROWN VICTORIA

GTG9779

240515

2004

CHEVROLET/TAN/
TAHOE

NONE

1GNEC13V14J304391

2003

INFINITI/SILVER/
G35

LHM4070

240519

2006

TOYOTA/WHITE/
CAMRY

BG2K935

4T1BE32K66U653861

2010

CHEVROLET/
SILVER/
SILVERADO

SSD4687

240523

2008

CHEVROLET/
GRAY/
COBALT

NONE

1G1AL58F287200939

2006

HONDA/WHITE/
ODYSSEY

RKS6399

240535

2008

BMW/DARK BLUE

HXM1876

WBANU53528CT05053

240272

2008

NISSAN/RED/
MAXIMA

NONE

1N4BA41E98C832704

240536

2012

KIA/WHITE/
FORTE

RKN5114

KNAFT4A25C5558620

240291

2011

HONDA/BLUE/
PILOT

GFB8151

5FNYF3H5XBB030761

240537

1998

HONDA/RED/CR-V

SDX8843

JHLRD2842WC016788

2003

1HGEM22543LO79059

HCW1738

1N4AA5AP9CC855234

HONDA/WHITE/
CIVIC

NKJ5893

2012

NISSAN/GRAY/
MAXIMA

240538

240297

2004

1FMRU15W64LB16821

RTX0020

2FMDK3GC1CBA80985

FORD/RED/
EXPEDITION

RTN7104

2012

FORD/BLACK/
EDGE

240540

240339

2000

1J4FT58S1YL111195

GFB8481

3N1AB6AP9AL721745

JEEP/BLACK/
CHEROKEE

GBX4930

2010

NISSAN/BLACK/
SENTRA

240547

240347

240350

2007

HONDA/SILVER/
FIT

BT9T882

JHMGD38677S009742

240550

2003

FORD/DARK
BLUE/
EXPLORER

NONE

1FMZU73W93ZA80320

240353

2013

HONDA/WHITE/
MOTORCYCLE

NONE

LALAF7006D3004217

240566

2010

LEXUS/WHITE/
IS 250C

HZV2324

JTHFF2C24A2503522

240368

2013

CHEVROLET/
WHITE/
SONIC

KMW7160

1G1JA5SH8D4127877

240569

2002

FORD/RED/
EXPEDITION

HHZ6441

1FMRU17L52LA56627

2008

CHEVROLET/TAN/
MALIBU

NONE

1G1ZK577X8F153908

2013

CHEVROLET/
WHITE/
EQUINOX

240571

240370

RKX7042

1GNALBEK3DZ111748
2006

TOYOTA/GOLD/
COROLLA

NONE

1NXBR32E06Z762024

240595

2004

FORD/
WHITE/F-350

NONE

1FDWF36P44EB51930

240612

1999

JEEP/RED/
GRAND
CHEROKEE

HDW2946

1J4G258S8XC624935

240617

2000

CHEVROLET/TAN/
SILVERADO

BZ25661

1GCEC14WXYZ367304

240624

2006

DODGE/RED/RAM
1500

CDZ1230

1D7HA18N46S607804

240626

2007

KIA/LIGHT BLUE

MCD0456

KNDMB233176109359

240636

2005

TOYOTA/TAN/
CAMRY

BKJ7041

4T1BE32K95U032306

240212

240215

240216

Interior - Exterior
• Sheetrock Repair
• Texture
• Carpentry
• Flooring

Cash, MasterCard, Visa, & American Express
(Debit or Credit)
NO CHECKS
Registration: Begins at 7:00 a.m.,
Saturday, Auction Starts at 9:00 a.m. sharp.

UNIT #

Ben Wortman - Owner
Cell: 281-610-5894

* No Warranty; As Is-Where Is; No Delivery.
* Free Parking. * All Sales Final, No Refunds.
* All Items Sold “AS IS” To Highest Bidder.
Viewing: Saturday (May 18, 2024)
7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.

A 5% buyer’s premium will be added to the final purchase price.
Auctioneer services provided by: Bear Hebert, Texas Auctioneer License # 13995
*City Of Pasadena Reserves The Right To Remove Items From Sale Without Notice.
For more information call:
Bear Hebert 832-731-3203
City Impound Lot
713-475-7047
ABANDONED & CONFISCATED VEHICLE AUCTION

230749

Free Estimates

Business ou s
Classified Department: 8am- pm, Mon-Fri
u li
ion
es Conroe Courier: Mon-Sun;
All other Pubs: Wednesday Only

240226

240229

240242

240245

240257

2002

2A8HR44H18R721793

1G6AB5RA5D0112907

1GCEC19T01E241139

2FAFP74W02X121571

JNKCV51E33M300665

1GCSKSE33AZ163594

5FNRL38786B434100

240578
240376

NONE

HYUNDAI/WHITE/
ELANTRA

NONE

5NPDH4AE0BH041973

240377

2005

HONDA/SILVER/
ACCORD

KBB9188

1HGCM56745A019043

240387

2008

SCION/BLACK/XB

RYC9203

JTLKE50E181010503

240393

2003

HONDA/BLACK/
PILOT

BCL9565

2HKYF18743H594382

240394

2009

NISSAN/BLUE/
ALTIMA

PMH4944

1N4AL21E49N407987

240395

2002

FORD/YELLOW/
ESCAPE

DCW3641

1FMYU03122KA17798

240350

2007

HONDA/SILVER/
FIT

BT9T882

JHMGD38677S009742

240405

2007

FORD/GRAY/
FUSION

4782S73

3FAHP07Z57R279206

CLEAR LAKE CITY COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC.
The Clear Lake City Community Association, Inc. will hold its Annual Election of
Trustees on May 18, 2024 from 7am-7pm in Room B, at the Kermit Applewhite Sports
and Recreation Center, located at 16511 Diana Lane, Houston, TX 77062 for early voting
and voting day.
2024 Slate of Candidates (3 Year Term):
Oakbrook: 1) Robert Kuhl
Oakbrook West: 1) Terry Canup
Meadowgreen: 1) David Martin

A call for a public hearing in the Pasadena City Council Chambers at 6:00 p.m. on
June 5, 2024 for the purpose of hearing any interested citizen on the proposed
budget for the Crime Control and Prevention District for the budget year beginning
October 1, 2024 and ending September 30, 2025. City Council Chambers is located
at 1149 Ellsworth Drive, Pasadena, TX 77506.
PUBLISH: MAY 15, 22, and 29, 2024

Early Voting Dates: May 16 & May 17, 2024, 11am – 7pm
Absentee balloting is allowed. To receive an absentee ballot, call 281-488-0360 and ask
to speak to the Election Judge or send a letter requesting an “Absentee Ballot” written
on the outside of the envelope to the Attn: Election Judge, c/o CLCCA, 16511 Diana Lane,
Houston, TX 77062. Your absentee ballot must be received in the mail by May 17, 2024
in order to be counted. You must bring your original ballot to the Election Judge if you
think your ballot would otherwise be late as no voter will be allowed to vote if there is
an outstanding absentee ballot registered to that voter. Absentee ballots first mailing
will be no earlier than May 8, 2024.
Write-in candidates are permitted. Qualifications are listed in the CLCCA Bylaws 4.5.
Candidate must submit the Write-in Application and pay the $20 fee to have a background check performed by 5pm on May 13, 2024.
For further information contact 281-488-0360 or www.clcca.org.

The following vacant property has accumulation or growth of high grass, weeds, rubbish, carrion filth, brush and debris, bees and / or stagnant water, including stagnant
water in a swimming pool. These violations must be removed or remedied from the
entire property. If you are the owner or know how to contact the owner, please contact the City of Pasadena Health Department at 713-475-5529.
1. 1903 Alabama St., LT 5 BLK 3, BLUE GRASS ESTATES SEC 2, Pasadena, Tx 77503
2. 2711 Norman St., LT 27 BLK 3, RED BLUFF TERRACCE SEC 7, Pasadena, Tx 77506

A8 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

BAY AREA CITIZEN

HoustonChronicle.com/Place-Legals
TEXAS COMMISSION ON ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

EXAMPLE A
NOTICE OF APPLICATION AND PRELIMINARY DECISION
FOR AN AIR QUALITY PERMIT
PROPOSED AIR QUALITY PERMIT NUMBER 3467B AND
NONATTAINMENT PERMIT NUMBER N306
APPLICATION AND PRELIMINARY DECISION. LBC Houston, L.P.,
2625 Bay Area Blvd Ste 200, Houston, TX 77058-1551, has applied to the
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for issuance of
Proposed Air Quality Permit Number 3467B and Nonattainment Permit
Number N306, which would authorize construction of a LBC Houston
Bayport Terminal at 11666 Port Rd, Seabrook, Harris County, Texas 77586.
AVISO DE IDIOMA ALTERNATIVO. El aviso de idioma alternativo en
espanol está disponible en https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/air/
newsourcereview/airpermits-pendingpermit-apps. This application was
submitted to the TCEQ on January 3, 2023. The existing facility will emit
the following air contaminants in amounts significant enough to require a
Nonattainment Review: volatile organic compounds. In addition, the facility
will emit: carbon monoxide, hazardous air pollutants, nitrogen oxides,
organic compounds, particulate matter including particulate matter with
diameters of 10 microns or less and 2.5 microns or less and sulfur dioxide.
No other pollutant emission increase will result from this facility.
Harris County has been designated nonattainment for ozone because
Continuous Ambient Air Monitoring Stations have shown that ambient
concentrations of ozone exceed the National Ambient Air Quality Standards
(NAAQS) for ozone. Ground-level ozone is not emitted directly into the air,
but is created by chemical reactions between nitrogen oxides (NOx) and
volatile organic compounds (VOC). The Federal Clean Air Act (FCAA)
requires that new major stationary sources and major modifications at
sources in designated nonattainment areas must satisfy nonattainment
new source review prior to commencement of construction.
As required by the nonattainment review, all air contaminants have
been evaluated and the “lowest achievable emission rate” has been
addressed for the control of these contaminants. The emission increases
from this project will be offset with emission reductions by a ratio of 1.3 to
1. Furthermore, the applicant has demonstrated that the benefits of the
existing facility significantly outweigh the environmental and social costs
imposed as a result of its location, construction, or modification. Finally,
the applicant has certified that all major stationary sources owned or
operated by the applicant in the state are in compliance or on a schedule for
compliance with all applicable state and federal emission limitations and
standards. The executive director, therefore, has made the preliminary
determination to issue this permit.
As required by the nonattainment review, all air contaminants have
been evaluated and the “lowest achievable emission rate” has been
addressed for the control of these contaminants. The emission increases
from this project will be offset with emission reductions by a ratio of 1.3 to
1. Furthermore, the applicant has demonstrated that the benefits of the
existing facility significantly outweigh the environmental and social costs
imposed as a result of its location, construction, or modification. Finally,
the applicant has certified that all major stationary sources owned or
operated by the applicant in the state are in compliance or on a schedule for
compliance with all applicable state and federal emission limitations and
standards. The executive director, therefore, has made the preliminary
determination to issue this permit.
The executive director has completed the technical review of the application
and prepared a draft permit which, if approved, would establish the
conditions under which the facility must operate. The permit application,
the executive director’s preliminary decision which includes the draft
permit, the executive director’s preliminary determination summary, and
the executive director’s air quality analysis will be available for viewing
and copying at the TCEQ central office, the TCEQ Houston regional
office, and at Evelyn Meador Branch Library, 2400 North Meyer Avenue,
Seabrook, Harris County, Texas, beginning the first day of publication of
this notice. The facility’s compliance file, if any exists, is available for public
review at the TCEQ Houston Regional Office, 5425 Polk Street, Suite H,
Houston, Texas.
INFORMATION AVAILABLE ONLINE. These documents are accessible
through the Commission’s Web site at www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/cid:
the executive director’s preliminary decision which includes the draft
permit, the executive director’s preliminary determination summary,
the air quality analysis, and, once available, the executive director’s
response to comments and the final decision on this application. Access
the Commissioners’ Integrated Database (CID) using the above link and
enter the permit number for this application. The public location mentioned
as follows: Evelyn Meador Branch Library, 2400 North Meyer Avenue,
Seabrook, Harris County, Texas, provides public access to the internet.
This link to an electronic map of the site or facility’s general location is
provided as a public courtesy and not part of the application or notice.
For exact location, refer to application. https://gisweb.tceq.texas.gov/
LocationMapper/?marker=-95.025277,29.6075&level=13.
PUBLIC COMMENT/PUBLIC MEETING. You may submit public
comments or request a public meeting about this application. The purpose
of a public meeting is to provide the opportunity to submit comment or to
ask questions about the application. The TCEQ will hold a public meeting
if the executive director determines that there is a significant degree of
public interest in the application, if requested by an interested person, or
if requested by a local legislator. A public meeting is not a contested case
hearing. You may submit additional written public comments within 30
days of the date of newspaper publication of this notice in the manner set
forth in the AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION paragraph
below.
After the deadline for public comment, the executive director will consider
the comments and prepare a response to all public comment. The
response to comments, along with the executive director’s decision on the
application, will be mailed to everyone who submitted public comments
or is on a mailing list for this application. The mailing will also provide
instructions for requesting a contested case hearing or reconsideration of
the executive director’s decision.
OPPORTUNITY FOR A CONTESTED CASE HEARING. After the
deadline for public comment, the executive director will consider the
comments and prepare a response to all relevant and material or
significant public comment. The response to comments, along with the
executive director’s decision on the application, will be mailed to everyone
who submitted public comments or is on a mailing list for this application.
The mailing will also provide instructions for requesting a contested case
hearing or reconsideration of the executive director’s decision.
A contested case hearing is a legal proceeding similar to a civil trial in a
state district court. A person who may be affected by emissions of air
contaminants from the facility is entitled to request a hearing. A contested
case hearing request must include the following: (1) your name (or for a
group or association, an official representative), mailing address, daytime
phone number; (2) applicant’s name and permit number; (3) the statement
“I/we request a contested case hearing;” (4) a specific description of how
you would be adversely affected by the application and air emissions from
the facility in a way not common to the general public; (5) the location and
distance of your property relative to the facility; (6) a description of how
you use the property which may be impacted by the facility; and (7) a list
of all disputed issues of fact that you submit during the comment period.
If the request is made by a group or association, one or more members
who have standing to request a hearing must be identified by name and
physical address. The interests the group or association seeks to protect
must also be identified. You may also submit your proposed adjustments
to the application/permit which would satisfy your concerns. Requests
for a contested case hearing must be submitted in writing within 30 days
following this notice to the Office of the Chief Clerk, at the address provided
in the information section below.
A contested case hearing will only be granted based on disputed issues
of fact or mixed questions of fact and law that are relevant and material
to the Commission’s decisions on the application. The Commission may
only grant a request for a contested case hearing on issues the requestor
submitted in their timely comments that were not subsequently withdrawn.
Issues that are not submitted in public comments may not be considered
during a hearing.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ACTION. If a timely contested case hearing
request is not received or if all timely contested case hearing requests
are withdrawn, the executive director may issue final approval of the
application. The response to comments, along with the executive director’s
decision on the application will be mailed to everyone who submitted public
comments or is on a mailing list for this application, and will be posted
electronically to the CID. If any timely hearing requests are received and
not withdrawn, the executive director will not issue final approval of the
permit and will forward the application and requests to the Commissioners
for their consideration at a scheduled commission meeting.
MAILING LIST. You may ask to be placed on a mailing list to obtain
additional information on this application by sending a request to the Office
of the Chief Clerk at the address below.
AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION. Public comments
and requests must be submitted either electronically at www14.tceq.
texas.gov/epic/eComment/, or in writing to the Texas Commission on
Environmental Quality, Office of the Chief Clerk, MC-105, P.O. Box 13087,
Austin, Texas 78711-3087. Please be aware that any contact information
you provide, including your name, phone number, email address and
physical address will become part of the agency’s public record. For more
information about this permit application or the permitting process, please
call the Public Education Program toll free at 1-800-687-4040. Si desea
información en Español, puede llamar al 1-800-687-4040.
Further information may also be obtained from LBC Houston, L.P. at the
address stated above or by calling Mr. John Powe, Regional Manager - Air
Compliance at (281) 961-3368.
Notice Issuance Date: May 9, 2024

ORDINANCE No. 2024-086
Amendment to the Code of Ordinances of the City of Pasadena, Texas at Chapter 31,
Standard Sign Code, Sec. 31-19 Electronic off-premises signs, to prohibit conversion
of existing off-premises ground sign structures to ones with an electronic face; providing a repealing clause; providing a savings clause; providing for severability; and providing a penalty.
SECTION 7. That it shall be unlawful and a misdemeanor to violate any provision or
requirement hereof and any person convicted of violating any provision, restriction,
requirement, or prohibition of this Chapter shall be fined in a sum of not more than
Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) for each violation. A separate offense shall be
deemed committed on each day during or on which a violation occurs or continues.
PASSED ON SECOND AND FINAL READING by the City Council of the City of Pasadena, Texas, in regular meeting in the City Hall this the 7th day of May, A.D., 2024.
APPROVED this the 7th day of May, A.D., 2024.
_______________________________
JEFF WAGNER, MAYOR
OF THE CITY OF PASADENA, TEXAS
ATTEST: APPROVED:
________________________
AMANDA F. MUELLER
CITY SECRETARY
CITY OF PASADENA, TEXAS

________________________
JAY W. DALE
CITY ATTORNEY
CITY OF PASADENA, TEXAS

legals@chron.com

713.362.6868
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE TO BIDDERS
The City of Pasadena, Texas invites you to submit sealed proposals for:
DEMOLITION AND CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENCE AT:
BID NO. 24-004 513 WAFER ST., PASADENA, TEXAS 77506
Sealed bids in duplicate will be received by the City of Pasadena, Texas on or before 4:00 p.m. CST, Monday, June 03, 2024 in the
Office of the City Secretary, 1149 Ellsworth Dr., Suite 200, Pasadena, Texas 77506. Bids will be publicly opened and read on Tuesday, June 04, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. in Room 236, 2nd Floor, City Hall, 1149 Ellsworth Dr., Pasadena, TX 77506.
Plans and specifications may be obtained by contacting the Community Development Department, at (713) 475-7294 or CommDev@
pasadenatx.gov.
All bidders must be registered with the System Award Management (SAM) a www.sam.gov, proof must be enclosed with bid.
Invitation for Bids documents may be obtained via the Internet by contacting DemandStar.com Commodity Code: 912-40 and
909-54 or from the City of Pasadena Purchasing Department web page at https://www.pasadenatx.gov/. If you do not have internet access, you may obtain the documents by contacting the Community Development Department at 1149 Ellsworth Dr., Pasadena,
Texas, 77506, (713) 475-7294.
Bids may be either mailed or hand delivered to the City Secretary’s Office, 1149 Ellsworth Drive, Suite 200, Pasadena, TX 77506.
Any bids received after the above stated time will be returned to the bidder unopened.
MAILING INSTRUCTIONS: ALL BIDS ARE TO BE ADDRESSED TO THE OFFICE OF THE CITY SECRETARY. PLEASE MARK PLAINLY ON THE ENVELOPE, IN THE LOWER LEFTHAND CORNER, “BID PROPOSAL.”
CAUTION: It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that bids are received in the City Secretary’s Office prior to the date and time
specified above. Receipt of qualifications in any other City office does not satisfy this requirement.
No bids may be withdrawn after the scheduled closing time for the receiving bids, for at least ninety (90) days.
The City reserves the right to reject any and/or all bids and to waive formalities.
Published in the Pasadena Citizen & on the City of Pasadena Website on May 15, 2024 & May 22, 2024

Notice is hereby given that the Board of
Adjustment of the City of Deer Park,
Texas will hold a public hearing at City
Hall, 710 East San Augustine Street, Deer
Park, Texas at 6:20 p.m. on the 3rd day of
June, 2024 at which time and place they
will hear all persons desiring to be heard
on or in connection with any matter or
question relating to the requests from the
following:
Michael and Amanda Olivarez for a four
(4) foot variance to the rear building line
to construct a patio cover at 2414 Pine
Lake Drive.
Lisa Plitt for a five (5) foot variance to the
side building line to construct a carport at
917 South Kaufman Drive.
Angela Smith, TRMC, CMC
City Secretary
Posted the 8th of May 2024
Published the 15th of May 2024
This Vehicle was towed and may be retrieved at BAYTOWN AUTO STORAGE,
5552 N Main St Baytown TX 77521. 281421-4666/0650337VSF YEAR: 2015
MAKE: Nissan MODEL: Pathfinder
VIN/SERIAL: 5N1AR2MM1FC626310 COLOR: SILVER LICENSE PLATE: NO PLATE
STATE: PA This vehicle was BAYTOWN,
Harris County, TX abandoned, and it was
picked up 4-15-24, at 4403 CRAIGMONT,
BAYTOWN, TX 77520. The charge as of
today is $778.91. REF#C404125

INVITATION TO BIDDERS: Topwater
Construction Services, LLC as Construction Manager at Risk for Deer Park ISD
will receive bids or proposals from qualified firms for the Deer Park HS South
Campus Pool Repairs and Restoration
project. All interested bidders, including
MBE, WBE, SBE, and HUB, should contact
Topwater Construction at the following
number, 281-347-4010, or email Roger
Graham at roger@topwatercsllc.com, for
all project related information and documents. Bids or Proposals are to be submitted to Topwater Construction no later
than 1:00PM on Monday, June 3, 2024.
Email proposals to roger@topwatercsllc.c
om or fax to 281-347-4006.

There will be a mandatory pre-bid meeting on: Friday, May 24, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. in the Community Development Conference
Room, 1149 Ellsworth Dr., Suite 545, 5th Floor, Pasadena, Texas 77506.
THIS PROJECT IS FINANCIALLY ASSISTED WITH FEDERAL FUNDS MADE AVAILABLE UNDER THE HOME INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIPS (HOME) PROGRAM (24 CFR PART 92) THROUGH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT (HUD).
PERTINENT LEGAL REQUIREMENTS ARE INCLUDED IN THE BID PACKAGE. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.
IN ADDITION, IF THE CONTRACT AMOUNT EXCEEDS $200,000.00, THE WORK PERFORMED UNDER THIS CONTRACT WILL BE
SUBJECT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF SECTION 3 OF THE HUD ACT OF 1968, AS AMENDED, 12 U.S.C. 1701U (SECTION 3). THE
PURPOSE OF SECTION 3 IS TO ENSURE THAT EMPLOYMENT AND OTHER ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES GENERATED BY HUD ASSISTANCE OR HUD-ASSISTED PROJECTS COVERED BY SECTION 3, SHALL, TO THE GREATEST EXTENT FEASIBLE, BE DIRECTED
TO LOW- AND VERY LOW-INCOME PERSONS, PARTICULARLY THOSE WHO ARE RECIPIENTS OF HUD ASSISTANCE FOR HOUSING.

BRAZORIA COUNTY MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT NO. 63A
NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF
RULES AND REGULATIONS GOVERNING
SEWER HOUSE LINES AND SEWER CONNECTIONS
Notice is hereby given that the Board of Directors of the captioned District, at a
meeting held on May 11, 2023, adopted rules and regulations governing sewer house
lines and sewer connections.
These rules and regulations were adopted for the purpose of preventing
overloading of wastewater treatment plants, preventing increased plumbing and
wastewater treatment costs, and preventing line failures and service disruptions.
The rules and regulations establish standards for service lines, connection of building sewer outlet to service lines, fittings and cleanouts, requirements for connection
permit, including requirements for backfilling and repairs to damaged facilities, and
type of flow and waste that is to be excluded.
Failure to adhere to said rules and regulations can result in a fine of up to $10,000
per violation, with each day a violation continues being considered a separate
violation.
A full copy of the rules and regulations is on file at 1300 Post Oak Boulevard, Suite
2400, Houston, Texas 77056, and will be on file in the office of the District Operator.
The rules will be in full force and effect from and after five (5) days following the
publication of this notice.
BRAZORIA COUNTY MUNICIPAL
UTILITY DISTRICT NO. 63A
/s/ MATTHEW J. WELLS
By:_____________________________
President, Board of Directors
(SEAL)

BRAZORIA COUNTY MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT NO. 65
NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF
RULES AND REGULATIONS GOVERNING
SEWER HOUSE LINES AND SEWER CONNECTIONS
Notice is hereby given that the Board of Directors of the captioned District, at a
meeting held on May 12, 2023, adopted rules and regulations governing sewer house
lines and sewer connections.
These rules and regulations were adopted for the purpose of preventing
overloading of wastewater treatment plants, preventing increased plumbing and
wastewater treatment costs, and preventing line failures and service disruptions.
The rules and regulations establish standards for service lines, connection of building sewer outlet to service lines, fittings and cleanouts, requirements for connection
permit, including requirements for backfilling and repairs to damaged facilities, and
type of flow and waste that is to be excluded.
Failure to adhere to said rules and regulations can result in a fine of up to $10,000
per violation, with each day a violation continues being considered a separate
violation.
A full copy of the rules and regulations is on file at 1300 Post Oak Boulevard, Suite
2400, Houston, Texas 77056, and will be on file in the office of the District Operator.
The rules will be in full force and effect from and after five (5) days following the
publication of this notice.
BRAZORIA COUNTY MUNICIPAL
UTILITY DISTRICT NO. 65
/s/ ALBERT T. TOMCHESSON
By:_____________________________
President, Board of Directors
(SEAL)

ORDINANCE No. 2024-085
An Ordinance to repeal and revoke Ordinance Nos. 2023-096 and 2023-098, Amendment to the Code of Ordinances of the City of Pasadena, Texas at Chapter 31, Standard Sign Code, section 31-19 Electronic off-premises signs.
SECTION 2. That, to the extent necessary, the City Council of the City of Pasadena
hereby authorizes and approves repealing and revoking Ordinance Nos. 2023-096 and
2023-098.
PASSED ON SECOND AND FINAL READING by the City Council of the City of Pasadena, Texas, in regular meeting in the City Hall this the 7th day of May, A.D., 2024.
APPROVED this the 7th day of May, A.D., 2024.
_______________________________
JEFF WAGNER, MAYOR
OF THE CITY OF PASADENA, TEXAS
ATTEST: APPROVED:
________________________
AMANDA F. MUELLER
CITY SECRETARY
CITY OF PASADENA, TEXAS

________________________
JAY W. DALE
CITY ATTORNEY
CITY OF PASADENA, TEXAS

NOTICE OF RECEIPT OF APPLICATION AND INTENT TO OBTAIN
AIR PERMIT (NORI) RENEWAL
PERMIT NUMBER 22059
APPLICATION. The Lubrizol Corporation, has applied to the Texas Commission on
Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for renewal of Air Quality Permit Number 22059, which
would authorize continued operation of Lubrizol Deer Park Plant 177 Unit located at 41
Tidal Road, Deer Park, Harris County, Texas 77536. AVISO DE IDIOMA ALTERNATIVO.
El aviso de idioma alternativo en espanol está disponible en https://www.tceq.texas.gov/
permitting/air/newsourcereview/airpermits-pendingpermit-apps. This link to an electronic
map of the site or facility’s general location is provided as a public courtesy and not part of
the application or notice. For exact location, refer to application. https://
gisweb.tceq.texas.gov/LocationMapper/?marker=-95.114595,29.716375&level=13. The
existing facility and/or related facilities are authorized to emit the following air contaminants:
carbon monoxide, hazardous air pollutants, hydrogen sulfide, nitrogen oxides, organic
compounds, particulate matter including particulate matter with diameters of 10 microns
or less and 2.5 microns or less, sulfur dioxide and sulfuric acid.
This application was submitted to the TCEQ on April 15, 2024. The application will be
available for viewing and copying at the TCEQ central office, TCEQ Houston regional
office, and the Deer Park Public Library, 3009 Center Street, Deer Park, Harris County,
Texas beginning the first day of publication of this notice. The facility’s compliance file, if
any exists, is available for public review in the Houston regional office of the TCEQ.
The executive director has determined the application is administratively complete and
will conduct a technical review of the application. In addition to the renewal, this permitting
action includes the incorporation of permits by rule, standard permits, and changes in
emission factors related to this permit. An amendment application that is not subject to
public notice or an opportunity for a contested case hearing is also being reviewed. The
reasons for any changes or incorporations, to the extent they are included in the renewed
permit, may include the enhancement of operational control at the plant or enforceability
of the permit. The TCEQ may act on this application without seeking further public
comment or providing an opportunity for a contested case hearing if certain criteria
are met.
PUBLIC COMMENT. You may submit public comments to the Office of the Chief
Clerk at the address below. The TCEQ will consider all public comments in developing
a final decision on the application and the executive director will prepare a response to
those comments. Issues such as property values, noise, traffic safety, and zoning are
outside of the TCEQ’s jurisdiction to address in the permit process.
OPPORTUNITY FOR A CONTESTED CASE HEARING. You may request a contested
case hearing if you are a person who may be affected by emissions of air
contaminants from the facility. If requesting a contested case hearing, you must
submit the following: (1) your name (or for a group or association, an official
representative), mailing address, daytime phone number; (2) applicant’s name and
permit number; (3) the statement “[I/we] request a contested case hearing;” (4) a
specific description of how you would be adversely affected by the application
and air emissions from the facility in a way not common to the general public; (5)
the location and distance of your property relative to the facility; (6) a description
of how you use the property which may be impacted by the facility; and (7) a list of
all disputed issues of fact that you submit during the comment period. If the request
is made by a group or association, one or more members who have standing to
request a hearing must be identified by name and physical address. The interests
the group or association seeks to protect must also be identified. You may also
submit your proposed adjustments to the application/permit which would satisfy
your concerns.
The deadline to submit a request for a contested case hearing is 15 days after
newspaper notice is published. If a request is timely filed, the deadline for
requesting a contested case hearing will be extended to 30 days after mailing of
the response to comments.
If any requests for a contested case hearing are timely filed, the Executive Director will
forward the application and any requests for a contested case hearing to the Commissioners
for their consideration at a scheduled Commission meeting. Unless the application is directly
referred to a contested case hearing, the executive director will mail the response to
comments along with notification of Commission meeting to everyone who submitted
comments or is on the mailing list for this application. The Commission may only grant a
request for a contested case hearing on issues the requestor submitted in their timely
comments that were not subsequently withdrawn. If a hearing is granted, the subject
of a hearing will be limited to disputed issues of fact or mixed questions of fact and
law relating to relevant and material air quality concerns submitted during the
comment period. Issues such as property values, noise, traffic safety, and zoning are
outside of the Commission’s jurisdiction to address in this proceeding.
MAILING LIST. In addition to submitting public comments, you may ask to be placed on a
mailing list for this application by sending a request to the Office of the Chief Clerk at the
address below. Those on the mailing list will receive copies of future public notices (if any)
mailed by the Office of the Chief Clerk for this application.
AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION. Public comments and requests must be
submitted either electronically at www14.tceq.texas.gov/epic/eComment/, or in writing to
the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Office of the Chief Clerk, MC-105, P.O.
Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. Please be aware that any contact information you
provide, including your name, phone number, email address and physical address will
become part of the agency’s public record. For more information about this permit
application or the permitting process, please call the Public Education Program toll free at
1-800-687-4040. Si desea información en Español, puede llamar al 1-800-687-4040.
Further information may also be obtained from The Lubrizol Corporation, P.O. Box 158,
Deer Park, Texas 77536-0158 or by calling Ms. Nyx Black, Environmental Systems and
Air Permitting Manager at (832) 260-7525.
Notice Issuance Date: May 1, 2024

Sell it in the
It’s As Easy As 1 - 2 - 3!
1. Collect your items
2. Call

281-378-1000

3. Sit back and watch the
customers come to you!

www.southeasttexas.com

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A9

BAY AREA CITIZEN

Body Worlds coming to Moody
Gardens Discovery Museum in May
By Shakari Briggs
STA FF WRIT E R

An exhibit already
viewed by more than 5 million people will soon be on
display in Houston. The
Moody Gardens Discovery
Museum will host the Body
Worlds RX exhibition, beginning May 18.
“BODY WORLDS RX
offers visitors the unique
opportunity to dive deep
and explore the intricate biology and physiology of human health and the dramatic effects of disease
through a journey into the
human body,” a news release said.

HURRICANE
From page A1
systems. For instance, reduced wind shear allows
tropical systems to develop
and
maintain
their
strength more easily.

April sea temps like
June’s

The other factor contributing to the busy hurricane season forecast is
warm sea surface temperatures. The European
Union’s Earth Observation
Programme, known as Copernicus, stated that the
average global sea surface
temperature in February
was 69.91 degrees. This
reading was the highest for
any month in the program’s data set since the
previous record average of
69.76 degrees set in August
2023.
It’s now early April and
sea surface temperatures
across the Atlantic basin
are more like what we’d expect in June. In the Gulf of
Mexico, sea surface temperatures are running between 5 and 10 degrees
above the normal baseline.
Temperatures off the continental shelf a few hundred miles southeast of
Galveston are in the
mid-70s, according to the
latest data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Deeper into the Atlantic
basin, 80-degree sea surface temperatures are already in place from the Yucátan Peninsula in southern Mexico to Cuba, and
eastward to the island of
Hispaniola,
which
is
shared by Haiti and the
Dominican Republic. The
footprint of 80-degree water temperatures will undoubtedly grow as spring
transitions to summer, further making conditions
more favorable for tropical
development.

Will Texas face
hurricanes?

Matthew Rosencrans,
NOAA’s lead forecaster for
the seasonal hurricane
outlook, has said it’s still
far too early to make an accurate prediction of where
tropical systems will go.
“There’s still a lot of sci-

Dr. Gunther von Hagens,
a physician and scientist,
created the exhibition by
way of his invention: plastination. Invented in 1977,
plastination involves preserving the body for educational and instructional
purposes through a detailed process — removing
fluid from the body and replacing it with hardened
plastics. According to the
news release, the bodies
featured in the exhibition
come from the Institute of
Plastination’s body donation program, consisting of
more than 20,000 people
who donated their remains
for plastination.

Patrons can expect to see
everything from muscles to
organs as part of the exhibition since it centers on giving “an unprecedented
look inside the world’s
most sophisticated mechanism: the human body.”
The exhibit provides the
chance to compare what
healthy bodies and organs
look like versus bodies and
organs “stricken with disease,” the news release details.
Hagens along with Dr.
Angelina Whalley, curator
of BODY WORLDS exhibitions, hopes the exhibit motivates people to “embrace
preventive health care

through an informative
and entertaining presentation of the latest research
on top health issues.”
Admission into the Discovery Museum includes
BODY WORLDS RX for a
fee of $20 for adults, $17 for
seniors 65 and up and for
children 4 to 12. Visitors
can also purchase a oneday value pass, which includes entry into the
Aquarium and Rainforest
Pyramids, Discovery Museum, Colonel Paddlewheel Boat, MG 3D, 4D
Special FX and Audience
Recognition Theater for
$80 per adult and $70 for
children and seniors.

ence work on that end to
make forecasts earlier in
the season more reliable,”
he said, adding that landfall predictions are generally unreliable beyond seven days.
Along the Gulf of Mexico, we are particularly
prone to tropical cyclone
landfalls.
“Almost every year we
get at least one landfall
along the Gulf coastline …
there’s almost nowhere for
cyclones in the Gulf to go
besides hitting a coastline,” says Rosencrans.
While it may be too early
to tell whether Texas will
face direct hits from a hurricane this year, the implications of a major hurricane landfall are stark.
Texas, and specifically the
Houston area, are often cited as the most prone in the
country to natural disasters driven or exacerbated
by climate change. Combined with ongoing infrastructure problems and
sub-par insurance coverage, and the recipe for disaster is apparent if a major hurricane barrels toward the Texas Gulf Coast.

adequately
protected
against flood and wind
damage. As a reminder,
flood insurance is generally not covered by home or
renters’ insurance and it
usually takes 30 days to go
into effect.
When a storm approaches, follow local authorities’ evacuation or-

ders promptly, and stay informed with battery-powered radios for updates.
After the storm passes, assess damage cautiously,
avoiding flooded areas,
and be patient during recovery efforts. Preparation
is key to staying safe and
resilient during hurricane
season.

What you should do to
prepare

To prepare for hurricane season, it’s crucial to
have a solid plan in place.
Start by staying informed
about potential storms
through reliable sources
like the National Hurricane Center. Create an
evacuation plan with designated meeting points
and routes, and stock up
on essential supplies such
as nonperishable food, water, flashlights, batteries
and first-aid kits. Start
buying the small things
now because taking care of
them early means saving
time otherwise spent
scouring picked-over store
aisles when you’re in a
hurry.
Before the season kicks
off, you can secure your
home by trimming trees
and taking measurements
of windows for emergency
plywood shutters. These
outdoor tasks can easily be
taken care of over the
course of a few quiet weekends leading up to June 1.
Review your insurance
coverage to ensure you’re

Mark Mulligan/Staff photographer

On May 18, the Moody Gardens Discovery Museum
will feature the BODY WORLDS RX exhibitions.

n

ulle

In Loving Memory of Frank children by telling tales and
imparting “life’s rules” with a
Fuller III
blend of humor and sincerFrank Fuller III, a man of ity. From cautioning against
style and air, departed from “eating s uare hamburgers”
this world on the afternoon to sharing countless other
of April 8, 2024, one day pearls of wisdom, Frank’s
short of his 81st birthday, guidance will be treasured
amidst the ethereal spec- for generations to come.
tacle of a total solar eclipse. He was more than a grandHis exit mirrored the drama father and uncle; he was a
and surprise that defined self-imposed mentor, offerhis life one that was lived ing advice and encouragewith passion and a touch of ment about life and love .
the extraordinary. Born to whether solicited or not.
Angelina and Frank Fuller Jr.
Frank’s illustrious career in
in Beaumont, Texas, on April
9, 1943, Frank’s journey was Texas’ electrical distribution
as vibrant as the Texas sky industry spanned more than
0 years, during which he
itself.
became renowned as an icon
“Frankie Boy” was the el- and a respected figure. He
dest of five siblings that not only excelled professionincluded Rose, John, Mike, ally but also brought family
and Sara. His childhood was members into the professteeped in the warmth and sion, forging lasting friendchaos of Italian family gath- ships and business relationerings, where the scent of ships that left an indelible
pasta, meatballs, and sugo- mark on all who knew him.
Sundays filled the air, and
A champion for the underlaughter echoed through
the house, as grandparents, dog, Frank offered strength
aunts, uncles, and cousins and support to those in
gathered, knitting the family need. He was always ready
together with bonds of tradi- to extend a helping hand
tions, kinship, love, and great with grace, as he was offered many second chances
food.
throughout his own life.
As a father to four children
A fervent Houston Astros
Frank IV, Jamie, Jackie,
and Sam, “Daddy” cherished and University of Texas’ fan,
his role with adoration and Frank’s passion for sports
support. He considered his mirrored his love for his famchildren his greatest ac- ily - boundless and unwavcomplishment, instilling in ering. Yet, above all, Frank
them values of hard work, was a force of nature, his
perseverance, and humor. larger-than-life personality
Frank is also survived by his filled every room with enertwo sons-in-law, Tim and gy. If you knew him, he probSteve and daughter-in-law, ably offended you on sevCandice, five grandchildren, eral likely many occasions
many more special fam- whether he meant to or not.
ily members, and nieces and His love was unconditional,
nephews, including Jason and his presence brought joy
who provided needed com- to many. Frank will be deeply
fort and support in the final missed and never forgotten.
His legacy of love, laughter,
stages of his life.
and passion will continue to
During his marriage to Les- thrive in the hearts of all who
lie Schofield, his partner of had the privilege of knowing
more than 29 years, Frank and interacting with him.
discovered a kindred spirit
Though Frank, “Frankie
who shared his zest for life.
Together, they navigated life’s Boy,” “Daddy,” and “Grandpajourney with a blended fam- pa,” no longer walks among
ily, that included two step- us, his spirit will forever
children Melissa and Ron, shine brightly, as it helps to
and six additional grandchil- provide love, warmth, and
dren and many more friends wisdom during life’s journey.
and relatives creating cherIn honor of Frank’s memoished memories filled with
travel, adventures, laughter, ry, charitable donations can
be made to the Galveston
and love.
Bay Foundation at galvbay.
A
master
storyteller, org or Ay Chihuahua Rescue
“Grandpapa” relished hold- at aychihuahuarescue.org.
ing court with his grand-

A10 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

A

BAY AREA CITIZEN

BAY AREA CITIZEN

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A11

A12 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

BAY AREA CITIZEN

!

Look
Lookfor
foryour
yourgrocery
grocerycoupons
couponsinside!
inside!
ADVICE: Explaining Medicare enrollment rules. A2

Are You Moving?

BAY !REA

HE �ITIZEN

Look for grocery
coupons inside

LEAGUE CITY | FRIENDSWOOD | CLEAR LAKE
WEBSTER | SEABROOK | KEMAH
YOURBAYAREANEWS.COM

•

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

• VOL. 48, NO. 20

•

50 CENTS

MONTHS

NE

1273

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ADVICE: Explaining Medicare enrollment. A2

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•

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

• VOL. 53, NO. 20

•

50 CENTS

AN EDITION OF

Kirk Sides/Staff photographer

Pearland area drivers know well about traffic challenges. A new study shows that the Houston region is among the worst driving areas in the nation.

ONE OF THE WORST
Forbes released its list of the most time consuming
U.S. cities to drive in. Here’s where Houston ranks

By Shakari Briggs
STA FF WRIT E R

Driving in Texas continues to get a
bad rap. Houston ranked as one of
the worst cities to drive in, according
to a new report by Forbes Advisor.
“Drivers lose an average of 11 hours
per year in traffic in the Houston,
Texas area,” the report says. “It
ranks 12th worst for access to car
maintenance, thanks in part to the
Houston-The
Woodlands-Sugar
Land metro area having the seventh
fewest car repair shops at 1.89 per
10,000 residents.”
Houston, which landed fourth on

PEARLAND
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estate, new businesses and more.
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free.

the list, received a score of 96.52,
with 100 being the worst possible
score. Additionally, the report
showed Space City ranked 12th worst
for overall driving experience. Analysts also found drivers experience
the 11th longest average commute
time at 30 minutes and nine seconds,
not to mention Houston tied with Atlanta when it comes to the amount of
time drivers spend in traffic — 74
hours annually.
The report indicated drivers in the
Houston metro area spend the 11th
highest amount on gas, $1,257 a year,
because of traffic congestion. Houston had the 12th slowest average

speed in downtown at 16 miles per
hour.
“Travel on the nation’s highways
and streets climbed by 2.1% in 2023 to
3.3 trillion miles, setting a new annual record, according to the Department of Transportation,” the report
says. “However, drivers in some cities have it worse than others during
their daily commute due to frequent
car accidents, heavy traffic congestion, high gas prices and challenges
with accessing car maintenance.”
Forbes Advisor analysts compared 47 of the most populated cities
across 15 metrics to figure out the
worst cities to drive in. The metrics

HEALTH

INTERMITTENT
FASTING
The idea behind intermittent
fasting is that brief periods of
little to no caloric intake will
help you lose weight.
PAGE A4

categories included driving experience, safety, cost of car ownership
and access to car maintenance. Ultimately, Oakland topped the list as
the worst to drive in followed by Miami, San Francisco, Houston and
Philadelphia. Two cities in North
Carolina — Charlotte and Raleigh —
ended up being the best cities to
drive in, per the data.
“Drivers in Oakland, California
have the worst driving experience
out of the 47 cities we evaluated,
thanks to its high number of fatal car
accidents, steep gas prices and a high
average commute time workers face
each day,” the report says.

HOME DELIVERY
CUSTOMER
SERVICE
For HCN home
delivery customer
service, call
713-362-7211
or email
deliveryservice
@hcnonline.com

A2 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

PEARLAND JOURNAL

ADVICE
HOME IMPROVEMENT

Zinsser hits the spot for antique furniture
Many of my
customers have
furniture from
their parents or
relatives that
mean so much
Trudy
to them. It
Chuoke
might have been
Mom’s dressing
H AP PY
H A N DYMA N
table, or Dad’s
bedside table
and just looking at them brings
back many memories. I have a
few things that I have kept
from my late husband, and I
just like having them in the
house...a sweet remembrance
of the time we had together.
But sometimes the furniture
pieces that you get from your
family have been in storage. I
have this friend who collected
from her mom’s estate. The
furniture and clothing had
been stored in a barn. A very

stinky barn. And the furniture
had adsorbed all the odor.
She told me about all the
different things she tried before
coming to me. She tried airing
it out, she put charcoal in the
drawers, she cleaned it with a
degreaser, but the furniture
smelled so bad she couldn’t
keep it in the house. So she
asked me for help.
Zinsser makes great primers.
Primers for sheetrock that is
crumbling, primers for peeling
paint and a primer for odor.
Older furniture is made so well,
all wood no composite or laminates and that old wood can be
a sponge absorbing odors.
Odor Killing Primer can be
painted on a surface, and it will
seal in the offensive smell. My
friend sealed all the drawers
and the inside of the drawer.
Then she wanted to put a new

finish on the outside of the
furniture, and I suggested Varathane. Her pieces now made
their way into the house.
Another way to use Zinsser
is on kitchen cabinets. If you
had smoke damage from a
kitchen fire and nothing gets
rid of the odor in the cabinets.
You don’t have to have your
whole kitchen torn down. Try
Zinsser first. I used it on my
kitchen cabinets because the
previous owner was a smoker.
That smoke permeated into the
cabinets and when I would
leave for a trip and come backthe whole house had this lingering smell like someone had
been smoking inside my house.
When I finally figured out
what was causing the odor…..I
used Zinsser. All I had to do
was seal the inside of all the
cabinets, and there was no

lingering odor when I returned
from the trip. And this primer
goes on milky so you can see
where you have applied the
primer and then dries clear.

Now to some great
email…..

Question: After listening
to your Saturday afternoon
show on WOAI, I have decided to remove the silicone
caulk in my shower. So how
can I remove the caulk and
what caulk would you suggest that I replace for the
silicone?
Answer: Contractor’s DeSolv-It is great for removing
silicone caulk. First, use a single edged razor blade to cut the
caulk right down the middlw
and along each side. Then
spray the caulk with De-Solv-It.
Spray every 15 minutes for an

hour. Then re-caulk with Sashco Sealant Clean Seal. It has a
7-year guarantee to resist mildew. Allow 48 hours to cure.
Question: I have slippery
steps on a small outdoor
deck. I know that you paint
them with a texture paint,
but I love the color of the
deck and I don’t want to
change that – so is there
something else that is not an
abrasive tread.
Answer: Absolutely yes!
There is a tread that is soft to
the touch but will provide traction and a safe step. They are
called Handi Treads. I like
them because they are translucent and don’t stand out on the
deck. You can use Handi
Treads on wet surfaces also like
in the tub and shower.
www.happyhandyman.com

HEALTH CARE

Medicare enrollment process explained
Toni: I need
to make the
right Medicare
decision because I turn 65
in August and
have
not had a
Toni
health plan for
King
2 years. I do
M E D ICA RE
not know
ADV IC E
where to start
or what to do.
My friends are advising me if
I do not sign up for Medicare
when I turn 65, I will be making a major Medicare mistake.
Can you please simplify the
Medicare enrollment process?
Thanks, Toni
Cynthia, Alvin

Hi Cynthia: Medicare is exploding with an American turning 65 every 8 seconds.
The Medicare basics America
needs to know are:

1) Remember to enroll at the

right time:

a) Turning 65 and receiving
your Social Security check, your
“Welcome to Medicare” kit will
be mailed to you with your
Medicare card 90 days before
you turn 65.
b) Turning 65 and NOT receiving your Social Security check and
not working full time with true
employer group health insurance from either you or your
spouse’s work, you may want to
enroll in Medicare Parts A and
B online via www.ssa.gov.
c) Turning 65, working full-time
with “true” employer group health
insurance whether through your
or your spouse’s employer benefits may want to delay enrolling
in Medicare until you or your
spouse retire or are laid off.

2) Medicare is not free

Medicare covers a lot and
there is a cost associated with
Medicare Parts A and B. The

premium for Part A is at no cost
if you worked 10 years or 40
quarters and paid Medicare
taxes. Medicare Part B has a
premium which is means-tested
depending on your annual income. In 2024, most Medicare
beneficiaries pay $174.70 each
month for their Part B premium. Medicare Part A (hospital)
deductible for 2024 is $1,632, not
once a year but is every 60 days
or 6 times a year. The 2024
Medicare Part B deductible is
$240 once a year with Medicare
paying 80% of the Medicareapproved amount and you paying the remaining 20%.

3) Learn the different
Medicare Parts (A, B, C and
D)
Original Medicare is Medicare Parts A and B which covers hospital, medical and provider expenses. Medicare Part
C, known as Medicare Ad-

vantage plan, is another way of
receiving your Medicare benefits. Part D is the Medicare
Prescription Drug plan that can
be a stand-alone plan with Original Medicare and a Medicare
Supplement, or with a Medicare
Advantage plan that includes a
prescription drug plan.

4) “Original” Medicare

Original Medicare Parts A
and B have no network. Medicare Part A covers in-patient
hospital, skilled nursing/rehab
facility, home health and hospice care. Medicare Part B covers doctor services whether at
the office or surgical care, outpatient surgery/services, lab/Xrays, MRIs, durable medical
equipment, and preventative
services.

5) Medicare Advantage Plan
(MAPD)
You must be enrolled in Orig-

inal Medicare to qualify for a
Medicare Advantage Plan and
can select various Medicare
Advantage plans (Medicare Part
C) such as an HMO or PPO
plans that are offered by private
insurance companies. A MAPD
plan has an insurance provider
network with health care professionals or facilities that provide lower in-network rates.
You do not use your Medicare
(red, white, and blue) card because Medicare will pay the
MAPD plan for your care. You
will have co-pays, deductibles
and maximum out-of-pocket
costs associated with your
medical care.
Confused about Medicare Workshop in Katy is “Live” Thursday,
May 23 at 6 p.m. at Spring Creek
BBQ-Katy, 21000 Katy Frwy,
Katy, TX. 77449. RSVP:832/5198664 or visit www.tonisays.com.
Dinner not included.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A3

PEARLAND JOURNAL

EVs make
bestseller list
By Nusaiba Mizan
STAF F WRI TE R

Elizabeth Conley/Staff photographer

Birds fly by as people watch the Houston skyline as the sunsets on Monday, March 6, 2023 in Houston.

Area Latinos play big economic role
Study finds demographic group
responsible for about two-thirds of
regional GDP growth
By Jhair Romero
STA FF WRIT E R

Houston-area Latinos
have played an outsized
role in growing the region’s
economy in recent years,
according to a study published this week.
From 2018 to 2021, Latinos were responsible for
68.3% of the metropolitan
area’s gross domestic product growth despite making
up about 40% of the population.
The study, funded by
Bank of America, found
the share of Latinos in the
Houston metro’s labor
force grew by 39% from
2010 to 2021, compared to
only 14% for non-Latinos in
the same period. Researchers from California Lutheran University and
UCLA’s Center for the
Study of Latino Health and
Culture produced the analysis.
“Those increased numbers have allowed the region to grow and prosper,

and jobs have been brought
to these areas and businesses,” said longtime
Houston Hispanic Chamber of Commerce President Laura Murillo. She
added that Houston suburbs with growing Latino
populations, such as Katy
and Spring, are some of the
biggest beneficiaries of the
growth.
Researchers cited the
Houston area’s young Latino population to explain
the economic boost in recent years. (About a third
of the city’s Hispanic population is under18, and 43%
is between 18 and 44, according to the University of
Houston’s Hobby School of
Public Affairs.)
The Cal Lutheran and
UCLA study said the metro’s coming-of-age Latinos
are “overwhelmingly” second- and third-generation
Americans, and the number of Latinos with a bachelor’s degree grew at a rate
2.9 times that of non-Latinos from 2010-21.

These shifts, though
more evident in the Houston area, have also played
out on larger scales despite
the
disproportionately
high mortality rates Latinos faced in the first years
of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The study said that in
2021, Latinos contributed
$581.2 billion to the Texas
economy, with the top sectors being finance and real
estate, government, professional and business services, mining and quarrying,
and construction.
And across the country,
the Latino population’s total economic output in 2021
was $3.2 trillion. The Latino GDP grew by 7.1% that
year, about 2% more than
that of non-Latinos.
Murillo said she hopes
studies like this will influence how companies, from
small businesses to large
corporations, market toward and hire Latino consumers and workers. The
purchasing power of U.S.
Latinos reached $3.4 trillion in 2021, according to an
Arizona State University
study published last year.
“I can’t imagine there’s a
corporation that can afford
to overlook 45% of the de-

mographic,” she said, referring to Latinos’ large
share of Houston’s population. “And these are not anecdotal stories. These are
hard facts. It’s data.”
A recent census data release revealed that the
Houston
metropolitan
area grew by almost
140,000 last year, with Harris County accounting for
more than a third of that
growth.
Although the U.S. Census Bureau won’t release
more detailed demographic information — such as
population by age, sex, race
and Hispanic origin — until this summer, the data
shows much of the county’s population growth was
fueled by international migration.
More than 41,100 immigrants moved to Harris
County last year, second in
the country only to Florida’s Miami-Dade County.
We won’t know exactly
how much Latinos contributed to that population
growth until June, but Murillo sees a clear trend.
“As go Hispanics, so
goes Houston,” Murillo
said. “And the rest of the
country for that matter.”

Two all-electric vehicles,
both from Tesla, became
the first of their kind to
rank among the Houston
area’s bestselling models
last year, according to
Houston-based InfoNation
Inc.
Tesla’s Model Y SUV debuted on the list at No. 10
while the Model 3 made its
first appearance at No. 18.
More than 5,000 of the
Model Y and 4,000 Model
3s were sold last year. Tesla
cut the prices of both in
2023.
RoShelle Salinas, executive vice president of the
Houston Automobile Dealers Association, called the
rising popularity of electric
vehicles “exciting to see for
the first time for us.”
“They’ve got plenty of
variety to choose from,
which makes it easier to
commit to an electric vehicle — along with partners
like the energy providers
and groups like Evolve
Houston, and the different
apps and charging stations,” Salinas said.
InfoNation’s ranking uses state Department of Motor Vehicle records from
Harris and nine surrounding counties.
It will surprise no one
that the region’s top-selling
vehicles are pickups. The
Ford F-150 topped the list
in 2022 and 2023, while the
Chevrolet Silverado 1500
was second both years.
Pickups occupied four of
the top 10 spots.
Sales of both models,

HOUSTON AREA’S
BEST-SELLING
VEHICLES
1. Ford F-150 pickup (14,934
sales)
2. Chevrolet Silverado 1500
pickup (10,252)
3. Toyota RAV4 SUV
(9,002)
4. Toyota Camry (8,397)
5. Nissan Rogue SUV
(7,552)
6. Honda CR-V SUV
(6,739)
7. Ram 1500 pickup
(6,693)
8. Mazda CX-5 SUV (6,182)
9. Toyota Tundra pickup
(5,889)
10. Tesla Model Y SUV
(5,870)

however, declined in the
Houston area and nationally, InfoNation wrote in its
report. Nearly15,000 F-150s
and 10,000 Silverado 1500s
were sold in the region in
2023.
In Houston, two SUVs
jumped into the top 10: The
Honda CR-V rose to sixth
from No. 18 in 2022 while
the Mazda CX-5 jumped to
eighth from No. 22. SUVs
grabbed five of the top 10
spots.
“You get what you need
as a higher-level vehicle,
especially in the high waters that we can sometimes
see in Houston,” Salinas
said. “You can fit your family, and all of their sporting
equipment.”
Among sedans, the Toyota Camry was the top
choice at No. 4.

John Keeble/Getty Images

A Tesla Model 3 and Model Y at the Everything
Electric London 2024 show in March. The two cars
are the first all-electric vehicles to rank among the
best-sellers in the Houston region.

Game has Pearland police urging HS students to be careful
By Yvette Orozco
STAFF WRIT E R

Pearland police are asking high school students
to be careful when they
play “senior assassin,” a
game involving toy guns
made popular on social
media.
The game is meant to be
harmless, but recently police in Pearland are seeing
a wave of complaints from
residents who say it’s become a nuisance and a
danger when played in
public spaces and on roadways, according to police
spokesman Chad Rogers.
The game, intended for

high school seniors, is a
survival contest where
students try to “eliminate”
targets off campus or other areas using toy guns.
Often the toy of choice is
an Orbeez Gun, which
shoots Orbeez, squishy
beads that expand with
water.
Police say the public’s
response and the risks involved when the game is
played on or near roadways is cause for concern,
so the department posted
a public safety announcement on its social media
platforms.
According to witness
accounts, said Rogers, the

game had caused reckless
driving in some incidences.
People were also reporting that plastic projectiles had struck bystanders and bounced off
vehicles, said Rogers, although they were not the
intended targets.
“These people and
these vehicles were getting caught up in this
game, and it’s creating unnecessary disorder,” he
said.
The sound of a projectile bouncing off a vehicle
can also be startling and
can cause driver to become distracted, Rogers

said.
Police are urging students playing this game to
use caution, be conscious
of their surroundings and
consider the safety of others.
Pearland police discourage the use of any toy
guns on public roadways
as there is a risk they can
be mistaken for real firearms, which endangers
lives.
Orbeez toy guns are
brightly colored but have
the shape and outline of a
military-style
firearm,
and according to Rogers,
that can be alarming for
some people.

“When you see people
running and screaming
and shooting at each other, there’s no telling where
your mind goes as to
what’s taking place,” he
said.
Facebook comments on
the police department
posts ranged from those
who had never heard of
game to others pointing
out that the game was like
using Nerf guns, and that
this type of game has always been a common activity for kids.
In an email, Pearland
ISD stated the district is
working with all its campuses to ensure that keep-

ing safety a priority when
playing “senior assassin.”
Beyond a public service
announcement,
police
have not taken any action
or apprehended students
in relation to the game, according to Rogers.
“These kids are doing
things kids have been doing forever,” Rogers said.
“Our purpose of putting
out a public safety announcement is to let the
public know we know
what’s going on and are
encouraging people to be
smarter
about
how
they’re playing the game
because it’s creating calls
for service.”

A4 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

PEARLAND JOURNAL

HEALTH

Intermittent fasting has its risks
Q: I read a recent headline
that said people who fast
intermittently have an increased risk of heart disease.
Is there merit
to this story?
A: Intermittent fasting is an
increasingly
common weightloss strategy. The
two most comDr. Keith
mon approaches
Roach
of intermittent
TO YOU R
fasting are alG O OD
H E ALT H
ternate-day
fasting (eating
nothing one day, then whatever
you want the next) and timerestricted feeding (eating at certain times in the day, usually in
an eight-hour time frame).
The published data on the
benefits of these diets show
short-term weight loss (i.e., 12
weeks), but no long-term weight
loss (one year), compared to
standard dietary advice.
There is evidence of potential
harm from intermittent fasting.
Studies have shown an increased
risk of eating disorders (particularly binge eating). One study
showed that disordered eating
worsened in those assigned to an
intermittent fasting schedule.
However, other studies do not
show this.
The concern for disordered
eating is highest among younger
and female populations, who are
most at risk for eating disorders,
and I advise against intermittent
fasting for a person with a history of an eating disorder.
The study you read about was
presented as an abstract in the
March meeting of the American
Heart Association; it is not yet
published or peer-reviewed. But
it did show that people who
report an intermittent-fasting
diet (specifically those who ate
over an eight-hour time frame)
were at a higher risk for death
from heart disease than those
who ate over a 12-16 hour time
frame.
However, this wasn’t a controlled study, and it is likely that
people who chose a time-restricted eating pattern already
had issues that put them at a
higher risk for heart disease.
Still, given the absence of
long-term benefits, I don’t generally recommend a time-restricted diet or intermittent fasting to
my patients.
My colleagues in weight medicine consider intermittent fasting
to be an option that helps a subset of people. There are some
people who do benefit from this
type of diet, and as long as they

Getty Images

The idea behind intermittent fasting is that brief periods of little to no caloric intake will help you lose weight, influence your
metabolism, help your circadian biology (sleep cycles) and enhance the gut microbiome.

are eating well and are being
monitored by their physician,
they should continue to follow
their diet if it is working for
them.
Q: As a person who has had
vocal cord paralysis after a
viral infection, I was fortunate not to need many of the
outlined modes of care. However, there was one additional
therapy that was utilized
within my plan of care —
speech therapy. It took a
while, but it worked well.
I suppose I may have some
lingering weakness. When I
experience a new viral upper
respiratory infection, I often
experience prolonged hoarseness. So, I pull out my exercise sheet once again, practice
the techniques and experience the same great results.
A: I thank the reader for
writing, as I should have recommended voice therapy for people
with vocal cord paralysis, as well
as those with other voice issues.
Some ear, nose and throat
physicians, speech-language
pathologists, respiratory therapists and voice coaches specialize in voice therapy.
Q: I read last year that

nearly 20 million Americans
were living with long COVID,
but I understand that the
number is much higher now.
Can you explain exactly what
long COVID is and how it is
treated?
A: Persistent symptoms after
an infection are not unique to
COVID. Many people will have
cough or asthma exacerbations
for weeks or even months after
a bad flu infection.
Likewise, many people have
symptoms (relating to many
different body systems) after
recovering from COVID. The
Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention and the World
Health Organization differ on
the amount of time after an
infection that has to pass for it
to be considered “long COVID”
— four weeks and three
months, respectively.
The most common physical
symptoms of long COVID are
fatigue, shortness of breath and
muscle aches. In one study of
people who survived the initial
wave of COVID, 45% had at
least one persistent physical
symptom.
The most common and persistent neurological/psychological symptoms are anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress

disorder and cognition problems (“brain fog”). Up to 25% of
COVID survivors had one of
these symptoms after their
physical recovery. This was
higher than other respiratory
viruses, such as influenza.
For those who required a stay
in the intensive care unit, over
75% had physical, psychological
or cognitive symptoms after
their discharge. These survivors
are at the highest risk for prolonged and severe long-COVID
symptoms.
There are many hypotheses
for the underlying cause of
long-COVID symptoms, and
although there is some evidence, it’s not clear whether
there is one single cause or
whether multiple mechanisms
are possible.
I wish I could get better results from the available treatments. Essentially, we treat each
patient’s concerns the same way
we would if the person hadn’t
had COVID. Emphasis on sleep,
nutrition and exercise are critical. But we should still recognize that many people with long
COVID have symptoms that are
very similar to myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome. As such, exercise should
not be overdone, since this can

worsen post-exertional symptoms.
Q: Do MRI tests, especially
of the head, contribute to
hearing loss even when earplugs are used?
A: MRI scans are very loud,
and exposure to loud noises can
cause hearing loss. However, it’s
the prolonged and repeated
exposure to loud noises that is
most likely to cause hearing
damage, so MRI scans are not
likely to be a problem. Earplugs
are still a good idea, though.
There is nothing about the
strong magnetic field in an MRI
machine that adversely affects
hearing. They just make a lot of
noise due to the moving electrical coils. Some machines can
cause levels up to 110 decibels —
as loud as a rock concert.
New MRI technology is coming that will dramatically reduce
the amount of noise made during a scan.
Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable
to answer individual letters, but
will incorporate them in the column
whenever possible. Readers may
email questions to ToYourGood
Health@med.cornell.edu or send
mail to 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803.

NAC supplement helped reader stop nail biting
sweetened beverages (European
Journal of Endocrinology, Jan. 3,
2024).
Others who would like to
learn more about this approach
can find further details along
with information on medications in our “eGuide to Acne
Solutions.” This online resource
is located under the Health
eGuides tab at Peoples
Pharmacy.com.

JOE AND TERESA
GRAEDON
PE OPLE ’S PHA RMACY

Q: I’ve been a nail-biter
since I was a kid. The only
way I had nice nails was to
spend a fortune at a salon.
When I learned that NAC
(N-acetylcysteine) is known
to help with BFRBs, bodyfocused repetitive behaviors,
such as nail biting, hair pulling or skin picking, I decided
to try it. After a few months
of taking this supplement, I
had beautiful, natural fingernails for the first time in my
entire life. A most welcome
extra benefit of NAC for me
is that I have absolutely no
desire for alcohol and my
appetite and craving for unhealthy foods are just gone.
My primary care doc is
fairly progressive, but he
knew nothing about NAC
other than its use in the
emergency room to reverse
acetaminophen overdose. He
gave me the stamp of approval after seeing the changes in
me. I take several supplements, but this one has had
the most profound and positive change in my overall
health.
A: Thank you so much for a
fascinating testimonial. As your
doctor told you, NAC is “the
mainstay of therapy for acet-

LWA-Dann Tardif/Getty Images

Very little research has been conducted on the use of N-acetylcysteine supplements to treat
body-focused repetitive behaviors, such as nail biting or hair pulling.

aminophen toxicity” (StatPearls,
Feb. 19, 2023). The Food and
Drug Administration approved
it for this indication in 1985.
There is far less research on
its use to control body-focused
repetitive behaviors with a compulsive component, such as nail
biting or hair pulling. A review
of the research noted that only a
few clinical trials of NAC for this
purpose have been conducted
(International Journal of Environmental Research and Public
Health, May 2022).

We haven’t seen any studies
showing that NAC can reduce
the urge for alcohol or junk
food. However, a small study in
Indonesia demonstrated that it
helped men stop smoking (Cureus, Feb. 16, 2024).
NAC has a good safety profile.
It may cause nausea, vomiting or
diarrhea, and occasionally, people develop reactions such as a
rash or flushing. Headache,
hives or fever may occur at the
high doses used to treat acetaminophen toxicity (American

Family Physician, Aug. 1, 2009).
Q: My 16-year-old daughter
had terrible acne. She gave
up sugar, dairy and gluten,
and her acne disappeared
within six weeks. She has
beautiful skin now.
A: It sounds like your daughter found a great solution. Studies show that avoiding milk and
other dairy products can be
helpful for those with acne (Nutrients, Oct. 17, 2023). It also
makes sense to avoid sugar-

Q: I have a question about
the amount of elemental zinc
that would be safe to take per
day. My supplement has 7
milligrams of elemental zinc
per tablet. When I looked it
up, the American Academy of
Family Physicians says that
the tolerable upper limit of
elemental zinc per day is 40
milligrams. How much zinc
could I take without interfering with copper?
A: The Recommended Dietary Allowance for Adults is 8
milligrams for women and 11
milligrams for men. Your question is sophisticated. Excess zinc
intake, which might occur at
doses of 50 milligrams/day for
weeks, can interfere with copper
absorption and reduce immune
function. The Food and Nutrition Board (FNB) at the National
Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine has established 40 milligrams daily as
the tolerable upper limit of zinc
for adults.
Write to Joe and Teresa Graedon in
care of King Features, 628 Virginia
Drive, Orlando, FL 32803, or
email them via their website:
PeoplesPharmacy.com.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A5

PEARLAND JOURNAL

CLASSIFIED

TO PLACE AN AD: Call (281) 378-1000

Merchandise | Real Estate | Auto | Auctions | Business Opportunities

TO PLACE AN AD:

o

o
o ou
All payments due upon receipt of your ad. Payment
methods accepted: VISA, MC, AME , Discover, check by phone. You may cancel
your ad at any time, however, cost will remain the same. Rates are
non-transferable to new ads. Some restrictions apply.

(281) 378-1000
At Your Service

Business ou s
Classified Department: 8am- pm, Mon-Fri
u li
ion
es Conroe Courier: Mon-Sun;
All other Pubs: Wednesday Only

HoustonChronicle.com/Place-Legals legals@chron.com 713.362.6868

TO ADVERTISE: Call 281-378-1000
BUSINESS HOURS: 8am-5pm, Mon-Fri
Outdoor

RIO GRANDE FENCE COMPANY
“A PROFESSIONAL FENCE COMPANY”

WOOD | WROUGHT IRON
PVC | CHAIN LINK
DRIVE GATES
ACCESS SYSTEMS
www.riograndefence.net
CONTACT US 713-862-7320
Remodel

G & H No Money Down
Painting
Services
Painting
& Remodeling
Free Estimates

Interior
• Kitchen &
Bathroom
• Sheet Rock
• Texture
• Trim Work
• Flooring

Exterior

Insured & Bonded

• Hardi Plank-Siding
• Wood Replacement
• Fence & Decks
• Gutters
• Roofing
• Masonry Work

Family Owned & Operated
References Available

“No Job Too Big Or Small!”

281-235-4932
Repair

rent-a-spouse
All Home Repairs
Small or LARGE
Ben Wortman - Owner
Cell: 281-610-5894
Services

ART PAINTING
& REMODELING
Interior - Exterior
• Sheetrock Repair
• Texture
• Carpentry
• Flooring

• Cabinets
• Bathroom &
Kitchen Remodeling
• Siding

• Fence
• Wood Repair

Tony Hyska - Owner
(832) 877-9565

artpaintingandremodeling@outlook.com

painting
Interior/Exterior Painting • Sheetrock
Textures • Power Washing
Like Us on Facebook
and Get $100 Off
Min. of $500

Insured,
References

Call Luis Fuentes

713-298-8393
www.smart-improvements.com

Employment
TO ADVERTISE:

recruitment@hcnonline.com

PROJECT MANAGERS

Preferred Engineering, LP
Nassau Bay, TX
See Below to Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Exp Req/See Below
Full-Time

PROJECT MANAGERS, Nassau Bay, TX: Review project proposal/
plan to determine time frame, funding limitations, procedures, staffing, & allotment of resources to various phases of mechanical and
industrial engineering projects. Prepare project reports for management, client, or other stakeholders. Some local travel req’d. Send res
to: Preferred Engineering, LP, careers@preferred-engineering.com

SR. PROGRAMMER/ANALYST III

American National Group Services LLC
League City, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

American National Group Services LLC (League City, TX) seeks a
Sr. Programmer/Analyst III to apply both technical concepts, skills
and knowledge of internal policies and procedures to solve complex
application development problems. Bachelor’s in Info Tech, Software
Eng., or closely rltd field. + 5 yrs. exp. Must be able to work in
various unanticipated locations throughout the U.S. To submit
resumes, apply online at jobs.americannational.com.

Planning your
garage sale?
www.southeasttexas.com

Advertise it!
281-378-1000

CLEAR LAKE CITY COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC.
The Clear Lake City Community Association, Inc. will hold its Annual Election of
Trustees on May 18, 2024 from 7am-7pm in Room B, at the Kermit Applewhite Sports
and Recreation Center, located at 16511 Diana Lane, Houston, TX 77062 for early voting
and voting day.
2024 Slate of Candidates (3 Year Term):
Oakbrook: 1) Robert Kuhl
Oakbrook West: 1) Terry Canup
Meadowgreen: 1) David Martin

A call for a public hearing in the Pasadena City Council Chambers at 6:00 p.m. on
June 5, 2024 for the purpose of hearing any interested citizen on the proposed
budget for the Crime Control and Prevention District for the budget year beginning
October 1, 2024 and ending September 30, 2025. City Council Chambers is located
at 1149 Ellsworth Drive, Pasadena, TX 77506.
PUBLISH: MAY 15, 22, and 29, 2024

Early Voting Dates: May 16 & May 17, 2024, 11am – 7pm
Absentee balloting is allowed. To receive an absentee ballot, call 281-488-0360 and ask
to speak to the Election Judge or send a letter requesting an “Absentee Ballot” written
on the outside of the envelope to the Attn: Election Judge, c/o CLCCA, 16511 Diana Lane,
Houston, TX 77062. Your absentee ballot must be received in the mail by May 17, 2024
in order to be counted. You must bring your original ballot to the Election Judge if you
think your ballot would otherwise be late as no voter will be allowed to vote if there is
an outstanding absentee ballot registered to that voter. Absentee ballots first mailing
will be no earlier than May 8, 2024.
Write-in candidates are permitted. Qualifications are listed in the CLCCA Bylaws 4.5.
Candidate must submit the Write-in Application and pay the $20 fee to have a background check performed by 5pm on May 13, 2024.
For further information contact 281-488-0360 or www.clcca.org.

The following vacant property has accumulation or growth of high grass, weeds, rubbish, carrion filth, brush and debris, bees and / or stagnant water, including stagnant
water in a swimming pool. These violations must be removed or remedied from the
entire property. If you are the owner or know how to contact the owner, please contact the City of Pasadena Health Department at 713-475-5529.
1. 1903 Alabama St., LT 5 BLK 3, BLUE GRASS ESTATES SEC 2, Pasadena, Tx 77503
2. 2711 Norman St., LT 27 BLK 3, RED BLUFF TERRACCE SEC 7, Pasadena, Tx 77506

A6 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

PEARLAND JOURNAL

HoustonChronicle.com/Place-Legals

legals@chron.com

713.362.6868
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

TEXAS COMMISSION ON ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

EXAMPLE A
NOTICE OF APPLICATION AND PRELIMINARY DECISION
FOR AN AIR QUALITY PERMIT
PROPOSED AIR QUALITY PERMIT NUMBER 3467B AND
NONATTAINMENT PERMIT NUMBER N306
APPLICATION AND PRELIMINARY DECISION. LBC Houston, L.P.,
2625 Bay Area Blvd Ste 200, Houston, TX 77058-1551, has applied to the
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for issuance of
Proposed Air Quality Permit Number 3467B and Nonattainment Permit
Number N306, which would authorize construction of a LBC Houston
Bayport Terminal at 11666 Port Rd, Seabrook, Harris County, Texas 77586.
AVISO DE IDIOMA ALTERNATIVO. El aviso de idioma alternativo en
espanol está disponible en https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/air/
newsourcereview/airpermits-pendingpermit-apps. This application was
submitted to the TCEQ on January 3, 2023. The existing facility will emit
the following air contaminants in amounts significant enough to require a
Nonattainment Review: volatile organic compounds. In addition, the facility
will emit: carbon monoxide, hazardous air pollutants, nitrogen oxides,
organic compounds, particulate matter including particulate matter with
diameters of 10 microns or less and 2.5 microns or less and sulfur dioxide.
No other pollutant emission increase will result from this facility.
Harris County has been designated nonattainment for ozone because
Continuous Ambient Air Monitoring Stations have shown that ambient
concentrations of ozone exceed the National Ambient Air Quality Standards
(NAAQS) for ozone. Ground-level ozone is not emitted directly into the air,
but is created by chemical reactions between nitrogen oxides (NOx) and
volatile organic compounds (VOC). The Federal Clean Air Act (FCAA)
requires that new major stationary sources and major modifications at
sources in designated nonattainment areas must satisfy nonattainment
new source review prior to commencement of construction.
As required by the nonattainment review, all air contaminants have
been evaluated and the “lowest achievable emission rate” has been
addressed for the control of these contaminants. The emission increases
from this project will be offset with emission reductions by a ratio of 1.3 to
1. Furthermore, the applicant has demonstrated that the benefits of the
existing facility significantly outweigh the environmental and social costs
imposed as a result of its location, construction, or modification. Finally,
the applicant has certified that all major stationary sources owned or
operated by the applicant in the state are in compliance or on a schedule for
compliance with all applicable state and federal emission limitations and
standards. The executive director, therefore, has made the preliminary
determination to issue this permit.
As required by the nonattainment review, all air contaminants have
been evaluated and the “lowest achievable emission rate” has been
addressed for the control of these contaminants. The emission increases
from this project will be offset with emission reductions by a ratio of 1.3 to
1. Furthermore, the applicant has demonstrated that the benefits of the
existing facility significantly outweigh the environmental and social costs
imposed as a result of its location, construction, or modification. Finally,
the applicant has certified that all major stationary sources owned or
operated by the applicant in the state are in compliance or on a schedule for
compliance with all applicable state and federal emission limitations and
standards. The executive director, therefore, has made the preliminary
determination to issue this permit.
The executive director has completed the technical review of the application
and prepared a draft permit which, if approved, would establish the
conditions under which the facility must operate. The permit application,
the executive director’s preliminary decision which includes the draft
permit, the executive director’s preliminary determination summary, and
the executive director’s air quality analysis will be available for viewing
and copying at the TCEQ central office, the TCEQ Houston regional
office, and at Evelyn Meador Branch Library, 2400 North Meyer Avenue,
Seabrook, Harris County, Texas, beginning the first day of publication of
this notice. The facility’s compliance file, if any exists, is available for public
review at the TCEQ Houston Regional Office, 5425 Polk Street, Suite H,
Houston, Texas.
INFORMATION AVAILABLE ONLINE. These documents are accessible
through the Commission’s Web site at www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/cid:
the executive director’s preliminary decision which includes the draft
permit, the executive director’s preliminary determination summary,
the air quality analysis, and, once available, the executive director’s
response to comments and the final decision on this application. Access
the Commissioners’ Integrated Database (CID) using the above link and
enter the permit number for this application. The public location mentioned
as follows: Evelyn Meador Branch Library, 2400 North Meyer Avenue,
Seabrook, Harris County, Texas, provides public access to the internet.
This link to an electronic map of the site or facility’s general location is
provided as a public courtesy and not part of the application or notice.
For exact location, refer to application. https://gisweb.tceq.texas.gov/
LocationMapper/?marker=-95.025277,29.6075&level=13.
PUBLIC COMMENT/PUBLIC MEETING. You may submit public
comments or request a public meeting about this application. The purpose
of a public meeting is to provide the opportunity to submit comment or to
ask questions about the application. The TCEQ will hold a public meeting
if the executive director determines that there is a significant degree of
public interest in the application, if requested by an interested person, or
if requested by a local legislator. A public meeting is not a contested case
hearing. You may submit additional written public comments within 30
days of the date of newspaper publication of this notice in the manner set
forth in the AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION paragraph
below.
After the deadline for public comment, the executive director will consider
the comments and prepare a response to all public comment. The
response to comments, along with the executive director’s decision on the
application, will be mailed to everyone who submitted public comments
or is on a mailing list for this application. The mailing will also provide
instructions for requesting a contested case hearing or reconsideration of
the executive director’s decision.
OPPORTUNITY FOR A CONTESTED CASE HEARING. After the
deadline for public comment, the executive director will consider the
comments and prepare a response to all relevant and material or
significant public comment. The response to comments, along with the
executive director’s decision on the application, will be mailed to everyone
who submitted public comments or is on a mailing list for this application.
The mailing will also provide instructions for requesting a contested case
hearing or reconsideration of the executive director’s decision.
A contested case hearing is a legal proceeding similar to a civil trial in a
state district court. A person who may be affected by emissions of air
contaminants from the facility is entitled to request a hearing. A contested
case hearing request must include the following: (1) your name (or for a
group or association, an official representative), mailing address, daytime
phone number; (2) applicant’s name and permit number; (3) the statement
“I/we request a contested case hearing;” (4) a specific description of how
you would be adversely affected by the application and air emissions from
the facility in a way not common to the general public; (5) the location and
distance of your property relative to the facility; (6) a description of how
you use the property which may be impacted by the facility; and (7) a list
of all disputed issues of fact that you submit during the comment period.
If the request is made by a group or association, one or more members
who have standing to request a hearing must be identified by name and
physical address. The interests the group or association seeks to protect
must also be identified. You may also submit your proposed adjustments
to the application/permit which would satisfy your concerns. Requests
for a contested case hearing must be submitted in writing within 30 days
following this notice to the Office of the Chief Clerk, at the address provided
in the information section below.
A contested case hearing will only be granted based on disputed issues
of fact or mixed questions of fact and law that are relevant and material
to the Commission’s decisions on the application. The Commission may
only grant a request for a contested case hearing on issues the requestor
submitted in their timely comments that were not subsequently withdrawn.
Issues that are not submitted in public comments may not be considered
during a hearing.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ACTION. If a timely contested case hearing
request is not received or if all timely contested case hearing requests
are withdrawn, the executive director may issue final approval of the
application. The response to comments, along with the executive director’s
decision on the application will be mailed to everyone who submitted public
comments or is on a mailing list for this application, and will be posted
electronically to the CID. If any timely hearing requests are received and
not withdrawn, the executive director will not issue final approval of the
permit and will forward the application and requests to the Commissioners
for their consideration at a scheduled commission meeting.
MAILING LIST. You may ask to be placed on a mailing list to obtain
additional information on this application by sending a request to the Office
of the Chief Clerk at the address below.
AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION. Public comments
and requests must be submitted either electronically at www14.tceq.
texas.gov/epic/eComment/, or in writing to the Texas Commission on
Environmental Quality, Office of the Chief Clerk, MC-105, P.O. Box 13087,
Austin, Texas 78711-3087. Please be aware that any contact information
you provide, including your name, phone number, email address and
physical address will become part of the agency’s public record. For more
information about this permit application or the permitting process, please
call the Public Education Program toll free at 1-800-687-4040. Si desea
información en Español, puede llamar al 1-800-687-4040.
Further information may also be obtained from LBC Houston, L.P. at the
address stated above or by calling Mr. John Powe, Regional Manager - Air
Compliance at (281) 961-3368.
Notice Issuance Date: May 9, 2024

ORDINANCE No. 2024-086
Amendment to the Code of Ordinances of the City of Pasadena, Texas at Chapter 31,
Standard Sign Code, Sec. 31-19 Electronic off-premises signs, to prohibit conversion
of existing off-premises ground sign structures to ones with an electronic face; providing a repealing clause; providing a savings clause; providing for severability; and providing a penalty.
SECTION 7. That it shall be unlawful and a misdemeanor to violate any provision or
requirement hereof and any person convicted of violating any provision, restriction,
requirement, or prohibition of this Chapter shall be fined in a sum of not more than
Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) for each violation. A separate offense shall be
deemed committed on each day during or on which a violation occurs or continues.
PASSED ON SECOND AND FINAL READING by the City Council of the City of Pasadena, Texas, in regular meeting in the City Hall this the 7th day of May, A.D., 2024.
APPROVED this the 7th day of May, A.D., 2024.
_______________________________
JEFF WAGNER, MAYOR
OF THE CITY OF PASADENA, TEXAS
ATTEST: APPROVED:
________________________
AMANDA F. MUELLER
CITY SECRETARY
CITY OF PASADENA, TEXAS

________________________
JAY W. DALE
CITY ATTORNEY
CITY OF PASADENA, TEXAS

Notice is hereby given that the Board of
Adjustment of the City of Deer Park,
Texas will hold a public hearing at City
Hall, 710 East San Augustine Street, Deer
Park, Texas at 6:20 p.m. on the 3rd day of
June, 2024 at which time and place they
will hear all persons desiring to be heard
on or in connection with any matter or
question relating to the requests from the
following:
Michael and Amanda Olivarez for a four
(4) foot variance to the rear building line
to construct a patio cover at 2414 Pine
Lake Drive.
Lisa Plitt for a five (5) foot variance to the
side building line to construct a carport at
917 South Kaufman Drive.
Angela Smith, TRMC, CMC
City Secretary
Posted the 8th of May 2024
Published the 15th of May 2024
This Vehicle was towed and may be retrieved at BAYTOWN AUTO STORAGE,
5552 N Main St Baytown TX 77521. 281421-4666/0650337VSF YEAR: 2015
MAKE: Nissan MODEL: Pathfinder
VIN/SERIAL: 5N1AR2MM1FC626310 COLOR: SILVER LICENSE PLATE: NO PLATE
STATE: PA This vehicle was BAYTOWN,
Harris County, TX abandoned, and it was
picked up 4-15-24, at 4403 CRAIGMONT,
BAYTOWN, TX 77520. The charge as of
today is $778.91. REF#C404125

INVITATION TO BIDDERS: Topwater
Construction Services, LLC as Construction Manager at Risk for Deer Park ISD
will receive bids or proposals from qualified firms for the Deer Park HS South
Campus Pool Repairs and Restoration
project. All interested bidders, including
MBE, WBE, SBE, and HUB, should contact
Topwater Construction at the following
number, 281-347-4010, or email Roger
Graham at roger@topwatercsllc.com, for
all project related information and documents. Bids or Proposals are to be submitted to Topwater Construction no later
than 1:00PM on Monday, June 3, 2024.
Email proposals to roger@topwatercsllc.c
om or fax to 281-347-4006.

BRAZORIA COUNTY MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT NO. 63A
NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF
RULES AND REGULATIONS GOVERNING
SEWER HOUSE LINES AND SEWER CONNECTIONS
Notice is hereby given that the Board of Directors of the captioned District, at a
meeting held on May 11, 2023, adopted rules and regulations governing sewer house
lines and sewer connections.
These rules and regulations were adopted for the purpose of preventing
overloading of wastewater treatment plants, preventing increased plumbing and
wastewater treatment costs, and preventing line failures and service disruptions.
The rules and regulations establish standards for service lines, connection of building sewer outlet to service lines, fittings and cleanouts, requirements for connection
permit, including requirements for backfilling and repairs to damaged facilities, and
type of flow and waste that is to be excluded.
Failure to adhere to said rules and regulations can result in a fine of up to $10,000
per violation, with each day a violation continues being considered a separate
violation.
A full copy of the rules and regulations is on file at 1300 Post Oak Boulevard, Suite
2400, Houston, Texas 77056, and will be on file in the office of the District Operator.
The rules will be in full force and effect from and after five (5) days following the
publication of this notice.
BRAZORIA COUNTY MUNICIPAL
UTILITY DISTRICT NO. 63A
/s/ MATTHEW J. WELLS
By:_____________________________
President, Board of Directors
(SEAL)

BRAZORIA COUNTY MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT NO. 65
NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF
RULES AND REGULATIONS GOVERNING
SEWER HOUSE LINES AND SEWER CONNECTIONS
Notice is hereby given that the Board of Directors of the captioned District, at a
meeting held on May 12, 2023, adopted rules and regulations governing sewer house
lines and sewer connections.
These rules and regulations were adopted for the purpose of preventing
overloading of wastewater treatment plants, preventing increased plumbing and
wastewater treatment costs, and preventing line failures and service disruptions.
The rules and regulations establish standards for service lines, connection of building sewer outlet to service lines, fittings and cleanouts, requirements for connection
permit, including requirements for backfilling and repairs to damaged facilities, and
type of flow and waste that is to be excluded.
Failure to adhere to said rules and regulations can result in a fine of up to $10,000
per violation, with each day a violation continues being considered a separate
violation.
A full copy of the rules and regulations is on file at 1300 Post Oak Boulevard, Suite
2400, Houston, Texas 77056, and will be on file in the office of the District Operator.
The rules will be in full force and effect from and after five (5) days following the
publication of this notice.
BRAZORIA COUNTY MUNICIPAL
UTILITY DISTRICT NO. 65
/s/ ALBERT T. TOMCHESSON
By:_____________________________
President, Board of Directors
(SEAL)

ORDINANCE No. 2024-085
An Ordinance to repeal and revoke Ordinance Nos. 2023-096 and 2023-098, Amendment to the Code of Ordinances of the City of Pasadena, Texas at Chapter 31, Standard Sign Code, section 31-19 Electronic off-premises signs.
SECTION 2. That, to the extent necessary, the City Council of the City of Pasadena
hereby authorizes and approves repealing and revoking Ordinance Nos. 2023-096 and
2023-098.
PASSED ON SECOND AND FINAL READING by the City Council of the City of Pasadena, Texas, in regular meeting in the City Hall this the 7th day of May, A.D., 2024.
APPROVED this the 7th day of May, A.D., 2024.
_______________________________
JEFF WAGNER, MAYOR
OF THE CITY OF PASADENA, TEXAS
ATTEST: APPROVED:
________________________
AMANDA F. MUELLER
CITY SECRETARY
CITY OF PASADENA, TEXAS

________________________
JAY W. DALE
CITY ATTORNEY
CITY OF PASADENA, TEXAS

NOTICE OF RECEIPT OF APPLICATION AND INTENT TO OBTAIN
AIR PERMIT (NORI) RENEWAL
PERMIT NUMBER 22059
APPLICATION. The Lubrizol Corporation, has applied to the Texas Commission on
Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for renewal of Air Quality Permit Number 22059, which
would authorize continued operation of Lubrizol Deer Park Plant 177 Unit located at 41
Tidal Road, Deer Park, Harris County, Texas 77536. AVISO DE IDIOMA ALTERNATIVO.
El aviso de idioma alternativo en espanol está disponible en https://www.tceq.texas.gov/
permitting/air/newsourcereview/airpermits-pendingpermit-apps. This link to an electronic
map of the site or facility’s general location is provided as a public courtesy and not part of
the application or notice. For exact location, refer to application. https://
gisweb.tceq.texas.gov/LocationMapper/?marker=-95.114595,29.716375&level=13. The
existing facility and/or related facilities are authorized to emit the following air contaminants:
carbon monoxide, hazardous air pollutants, hydrogen sulfide, nitrogen oxides, organic
compounds, particulate matter including particulate matter with diameters of 10 microns
or less and 2.5 microns or less, sulfur dioxide and sulfuric acid.
This application was submitted to the TCEQ on April 15, 2024. The application will be
available for viewing and copying at the TCEQ central office, TCEQ Houston regional
office, and the Deer Park Public Library, 3009 Center Street, Deer Park, Harris County,
Texas beginning the first day of publication of this notice. The facility’s compliance file, if
any exists, is available for public review in the Houston regional office of the TCEQ.
The executive director has determined the application is administratively complete and
will conduct a technical review of the application. In addition to the renewal, this permitting
action includes the incorporation of permits by rule, standard permits, and changes in
emission factors related to this permit. An amendment application that is not subject to
public notice or an opportunity for a contested case hearing is also being reviewed. The
reasons for any changes or incorporations, to the extent they are included in the renewed
permit, may include the enhancement of operational control at the plant or enforceability
of the permit. The TCEQ may act on this application without seeking further public
comment or providing an opportunity for a contested case hearing if certain criteria
are met.
PUBLIC COMMENT. You may submit public comments to the Office of the Chief
Clerk at the address below. The TCEQ will consider all public comments in developing
a final decision on the application and the executive director will prepare a response to
those comments. Issues such as property values, noise, traffic safety, and zoning are
outside of the TCEQ’s jurisdiction to address in the permit process.
OPPORTUNITY FOR A CONTESTED CASE HEARING. You may request a contested
case hearing if you are a person who may be affected by emissions of air
contaminants from the facility. If requesting a contested case hearing, you must
submit the following: (1) your name (or for a group or association, an official
representative), mailing address, daytime phone number; (2) applicant’s name and
permit number; (3) the statement “[I/we] request a contested case hearing;” (4) a
specific description of how you would be adversely affected by the application
and air emissions from the facility in a way not common to the general public; (5)
the location and distance of your property relative to the facility; (6) a description
of how you use the property which may be impacted by the facility; and (7) a list of
all disputed issues of fact that you submit during the comment period. If the request
is made by a group or association, one or more members who have standing to
request a hearing must be identified by name and physical address. The interests
the group or association seeks to protect must also be identified. You may also
submit your proposed adjustments to the application/permit which would satisfy
your concerns.
The deadline to submit a request for a contested case hearing is 15 days after
newspaper notice is published. If a request is timely filed, the deadline for
requesting a contested case hearing will be extended to 30 days after mailing of
the response to comments.
If any requests for a contested case hearing are timely filed, the Executive Director will
forward the application and any requests for a contested case hearing to the Commissioners
for their consideration at a scheduled Commission meeting. Unless the application is directly
referred to a contested case hearing, the executive director will mail the response to
comments along with notification of Commission meeting to everyone who submitted
comments or is on the mailing list for this application. The Commission may only grant a
request for a contested case hearing on issues the requestor submitted in their timely
comments that were not subsequently withdrawn. If a hearing is granted, the subject
of a hearing will be limited to disputed issues of fact or mixed questions of fact and
law relating to relevant and material air quality concerns submitted during the
comment period. Issues such as property values, noise, traffic safety, and zoning are
outside of the Commission’s jurisdiction to address in this proceeding.
MAILING LIST. In addition to submitting public comments, you may ask to be placed on a
mailing list for this application by sending a request to the Office of the Chief Clerk at the
address below. Those on the mailing list will receive copies of future public notices (if any)
mailed by the Office of the Chief Clerk for this application.
AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION. Public comments and requests must be
submitted either electronically at www14.tceq.texas.gov/epic/eComment/, or in writing to
the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Office of the Chief Clerk, MC-105, P.O.
Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. Please be aware that any contact information you
provide, including your name, phone number, email address and physical address will
become part of the agency’s public record. For more information about this permit
application or the permitting process, please call the Public Education Program toll free at
1-800-687-4040. Si desea información en Español, puede llamar al 1-800-687-4040.
Further information may also be obtained from The Lubrizol Corporation, P.O. Box 158,
Deer Park, Texas 77536-0158 or by calling Ms. Nyx Black, Environmental Systems and
Air Permitting Manager at (832) 260-7525.
Notice Issuance Date: May 1, 2024

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WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A7

PEARLAND JOURNAL

CALENDAR
MAY 15
Healthy carbs. Texas A&M
AgriLife Extension instructors detail an ideal
diet for disease risk reduction. Noon-1 p.m. Evelyn
Meador Branch Library,
2400 N. Meyer Ave. Free,
registration required. Info:
tinyurl.com/23rfjhu3.
Dungeons & Dragons.
Middle and high school
players choose characters
and confront deadly perils.
4:15-5:45 p.m. Evelyn Meador Branch Library, 2400
N. Meyer Ave. Free, registration required. Info:
tinyurl.com/7ffabthc.
Character sketch. Teens
learn to draw their favorite
video game characters. 7-8
p.m. Pearland Tom Reid
Library, 3522 Liberty Drive.
Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/m6uuuwj8.

MAY 16
Cinema Sequels. The
Next Chapter presents
“The Amazing Spider-Man
2” (2014). 10:15 a.m.-1 p.m.
Clear Lake City-County
Freeman Branch Library,
16616 Diana Lane. Free.
Info:
tinyurl.com/4ywphbmw.
Talk time. English learners
polish their conversation
skills and learn new expressions. 1-2 p.m. West
Pearland Library, 11801
Shadow Creek Parkway.
Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/3cpe2ncx.
Watercolor work. Artists
use plastic bags and markers to create a print. 4:305:30 p.m. Clear Lake CityCounty Freeman Branch
Library, 16616 Diana Lane.
Free, registration required.
Info:
tinyurl.com/2n7pxyuk.
Chill Zone. Elementaryage students unwind with
sensory activities, crafts
and reading. 4:30-5:30
p.m. Clear Lake City-County Freeman Branch Library,
16616 Diana Lane. Free,
tickets available 30 minutes before the program.
Info:
tinyurl.com/43tzu2m9.
Story time. A master naturalist leads craft hour.
4:30-5:30 p.m. Evelyn
Meador Branch Library,
2400 N. Meyer Ave. Free.
Info: tinyurl.com/3zahnet5.
Watercolor workshop.
Artists create bookmarks
using fundamental watercolor techniques. 5-6 p.m.
Evelyn Meador Branch
Library, 2400 N. Meyer
Ave. Free, registration
required. Info:
tinyurl.com/4kch8sce.
Language lesson. Volunteer Eva Reyes leads

“Spanish for Absolute
Beginners.” 6-7 p.m.
Friendswood Library, 416 S.
Friendswood Drive. Free.
Info: tinyurl.com/2r9jnv9z.
Book launch. Author Barbara Gruener introduces
her newest book, “Birdy
and Mipps.” 6-7 p.m.
Friendswood Library, 416 S.
Friendswood Drive. Free.
Info:
tinyurl.com/ypw6n8vn.
Collage art. A volunteer
instructor provides materials and project guidance.
6-8 p.m. Friendswood
Library, 416 S. Friendswood
Drive. Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/5ct8aas2.
Regency Reads. Austenites, Anglophiles and romance lovers review
Amanda Grange’s “Mr.
Darcy’s Diary.” 7-8 p.m.
Friendswood Library, 416 S.
Friendswood Drive. Free.
Info:
tinyurl.com/4usvvmt5.

MAY 17
Computer refurb. Learn
how to install Linux on an
old laptop. 1-2 p.m. Evelyn
Meador Branch Library,
2400 N. Meyer Ave. Free,
registration required. Info:
tinyurl.com/h8e8rbwu.
Book sale. Shoppers
browse books, movies and
music. Proceeds support
library services and programs. 3-5:30 p.m. Friendswood Library, 416 S.
Friendswood Drive. $5-$10.
Info: tinyurl.com/27pbtf5k.
Meet the author. Girl
Scout Carrie Durso reads
from her children’s book,
“You’re Not Alone Little
Zebra.” 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Friendswood Library, 416 S.
Friendswood Drive. Free.
Info:
tinyurl.com/2sbu7z29.

MAY 18
Morning prayer. Moe
Mays, executive director of
PCS Ministries, leads the
Friendswood Community
Prayer Breakfast. 7:10-9
a.m. Trinity Fellowship, 301
Leisure Lane. $10. Info:
RSVP to Steve Martin,
steve.n.martin@sbcglobal.net or 832-607-1734.
Book sale. Shoppers
browse books, movies and
music. Proceeds support
library services and programs. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Friendswood Library, 416 S.
Friendswood Drive. $5-$10.
Info: tinyurl.com/mspj8yfs.
Teen advisory board.
Volunteers between the
ages of 12 and 18 earn
service hours as they share
thoughts about library
programming. 11 a.m.-noon.
West Pearland Library,
11801 Shadow Creek Park-

A New Dawn

Two-year-old terrier mix Bubba brings a sweet,
happy and loving energy to the halls of A New Dawn
Pet Adoption, 202 W. San Augustine St., staff say.
Bubba is vaccinated, neutered and
heartworm-negative, according to his bio. Learn
more at www.anewdawnpetadoption.org.
way. Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/2duk86sn.
Writers Corner. Authors
discuss their work and
best practices. 1:30-3:30
p.m. Clear Lake City-County Freeman Branch Library,
16616 Diana Lane. Free.
Info: tinyurl.com/mr3nrvby.
3D orientation. Instructors
demonstrate the library’s
3D printing capabilities.
Children under 12 must be
accompanied by an adult.
5:30-7 p.m. Clear Lake
City-Freeman Branch
Library, 16616 Diana Lane.
Free, registration required.
Info:
tinyurl.com/2p8nyxmp.
Mariachi music. Latin
Grammy nominated Mariachi Herencia de Mexico
performs. 8 p.m. The
Grand 1894 Opera House,
2020 Postoffice St. $25$88. Info:
www.thegrand.com.

MAY 20
Open garden. Visitors
meet Harris County Master
Gardeners and discover a
variety of exhibits, including vegetable, rose
and tropical. 8:30-11 a.m.
Genoa Friendship Gardens,
1210 Genoa Red Bluff Road.
Free. Info:
hcmga.tamu.edu.
Book club. Readers review
“Praying with Jane Eyre,”
by Vanessa Zoltan. 11
a.m.-12:30 p.m. Evelyn
Meador Branch Library,
2400 N. Meyer Ave. Free.
Info: tinyurl.com/jvh8na2k.
Page Turners. Book club
members check out
“Beautiful Country,” by
Qian Julie Wang. Noon-1
p.m. Clear Lake City-County Freeman Branch Library,
16616 Diana Lane. Free.
Info:
tinyurl.com/4umdmwwd.
Advanced Spanish. Lan-

guage learners polish their
skills with Miss Naheily.
3-4 p.m. Evelyn Meador
Branch Library, 2400 N.
Meyer Ave. Free, registration required. Info:
tinyurl.com/3h2zs2hp.
Learn Spanish. Beginners
practice their vocabulary.
4-5 p.m. Evelyn Meador
Branch Library, 2400 N.
Meyer Ave. Free, registration required. Info:
tinyurl.com/ttzsznuy.
Diabetes education. Registered nurse Charlotte
Wisnewski reviews physical activity guidelines for
disease management. 4-5
p.m. Friendswood Library,
416 S. Friendswood Drive.
Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/5n8jt8kn.
Play Testers. Competitors
take turns over blob-based
Puyo Puyo and blockbased Tetris. 5-6 p.m.
Friendswood Library, 416 S.
Friendswood Drive. Free.
Info:
tinyurl.com/mt5k3nhw.
Checkmate. Chess players
gather for friendly competition. Participants under
14 must be accompanied
by an adult. 6:30-8:30
p.m. Friendswood Library,
416 S. Friendswood Drive.
Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/msau52jb.
Novel Discussions. Readers share thoughts about
“Maame,” by Jessica
George. 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Pearland Tom Reid Library,
3522 Liberty Drive. Free.
Info: tinyurl.com/mr2jkey6.

MAY 21
Freeman Needlecrafters.
Hobbyists make progress
on knitting, crochet and
embroidery projects. 10
a.m.-noon. Clear Lake
City-County Freeman
Branch Library, 16616 Diana
Lane. Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/ycx5pta8.
Business counseling.
Mentors share expertise
with small business owners. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Evelyn
Meador Branch Library,
2400 North Meyer Ave.
Free, registration required.
Info: tinyurl.com/wdj7s5vx.
Green Thumb series.
Experts from Harris County
Master Gardeners provide
tips for differentiating
between beneficial and
damaging insects. 11 a.m.noon. Online. Free. Info:
facebook.com/harriscountypl/events.
Chair yoga. Health and
wellness coach Herban
Girl offers modified physical poses as well as meditation and breathing techniques. 11 a.m.-noon. Evelyn Meador Branch Library,
2400 North Meyer Ave.

Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/2c74txmf.
Intermediate Spanish.
Instructor Tiffany Salinas
guides adult learners
through vocabulary, grammar and conversational
skills. 11 a.m.-noon. Friendswood Library, 416 S.
Friendswood Drive. Free.
Info: tinyurl.com/fpk3ykt6.
Shapes and sheets. Staff
provide an overview of the
library’s vinyl cutting and
Cricut equipment. Children
under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. 5:30-7
p.m. Clear Lake City-County Freeman Branch Library,
16616 Diana Lane. Free,
registration required. Info:
tinyurl.com/47uzr22e.
Laser workshop. Discover
the basics of creating with
a laser cutter. Participants
under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. 6-7:45
p.m. Evelyn Meador Branch
Library, 2400 N. Meyer
Ave. Free, registration
required. Info:
tinyurl.com/5n7xhk9m.

MAY 22
Story time. A City of Seabrook youth ambassadorship program includes
conservation-themed
stories, games and crafts.
11 a.m.-noon. Evelyn Meador Branch Library, 2400
N. Meyer Ave. Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/5azepav3.
Game development.
Learn to program using
Microsoft MakeCode Arcade. Children under 12
must be accompanied by
an adult. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Clear Lake City-County
Freeman Branch Library,
16616 Diana Lane. Free,
registration required. Info:
tinyurl.com/2k6d9236.
Yarn craft. Teens and
adults work on crochet,
knitting and needlepoint
projects. 4-5:30 p.m.
Friendswood Library, 416 S.
Friendswood Drive. Free.
Info:
tinyurl.com/22x48wmr.
Mental health. Wellness
coach Valerie Coyle presents “Anxiety SOS” and
offers coping skills. 7-8:30
p.m. Friendswood Library,
416 S. Friendswood Drive.
Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/3sjcxyzd.
Reading group. The Hoffstetter Science Fiction &
Fantasy Book Club meets
virtually for a discussion of
“Emperor’s Soul,” by Brandon Sanderson. Contact
Clear Lake City-County
Freeman Branch Library,
832-927-5420, for a meeting link. 7-9 p.m. Online.
Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/5xwxveve.

legals@chron.com

Michael Miller/San Antonio Express-News

Shoppers browse the selection during at Buc-ee’s in Luling.

Buc-ee’s touted for pay
Gas station chains starting salary ranks fifth among U.S. retailers
By Richard Webner
C O N TR IB U T OR

Buc-ee’s comes in first
place worldwide for the
size of its convenience
stores and length of its car
washes. It also ranks high
for employee salaries, according to a recent study.
The Texas-based gas
station chain ranks fifth
among U.S. retailers for
entry-level salaries with
an average starting wage
of $18.18 an hour, according to the study by Business Insider, which is
based on data provided by
the workplace review site
Glassdoor.
The outdoor apparel
company Patagonia came
in first with an average

wage of $21.88, followed by
recreational equipment
retailer REI with $18.88.
Costco and IKEA came in
third and fourth, with
wages of $18.57 and $18.50,
respectively.
The yoga apparel company Lululemon ranked
sixth with an average
wage of $18, according to
the study.
At a starting wage of
$18.18, a full-time worker
at Buc-ee’s would earn
gross pay of about $37,800.
That’s well below the median annual salary in Texas, which was was $68,744
in 2023, according to data
from the Bureau of Labor
Statistics.
In signs posted at its
stores, Buc-ee’s has adver-

tised starting wages of $16
an hour for cashiers, grocery stockers and other
entry-level employees; $19
for food service and car
wash workers; and between $23 and $31 for department managers.
And in recent years,
Buc-ee’s has often attracted attention for its
high wages compared
with some other workplaces. General managers
at its convenience stores
can
make
between
$150,000 and $225,000, for
example.
Retail wages have generally been increasing in
recent years as they compete to attract employees
in a tight labor market.
Last year, for example,

Walmart boosted its starting wages to $14 an hour
from $12 an hour. Now, according to ZipRecruiter,
the average wage for Walmart employees in Texas
at the end of April was
$22.37 an hour. That
topped the average wage
at Buc-ee’s, the hiring
website said, where the
average this month is
$21.05.
Lake
Jackson-based
Buc-ee’s was born and
grew in Texas but in recent years has expanded
into other states. It now
has 49 locations, including stores in Alabama,
Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Missouri,
South Carolina and Tennessee.

NOTICE TO BIDDERS
Sealed proposal, addressed to the CITY OF PASADENA, TEXAS, for the following:
SYCAMORE WATER PLANT IMPROVEMENTS
CIP#W071
For the CITY OF PASADENA, TEXAS, hereinafter called "OWNER" will be received
at the office of the CITY SECRETARY, 1149 Ellsworth Drive, 2nd Floor, Pasadena, Texas
until 4:00 p.m., the day of MONDAY, JUNE 17, 2024, and then will be publicly
opened and read aloud on TUESDAY, JUNE 18, 2024 AT 3:00 p.m. at 1149 Ellsworth
Drive, 2nd Floor Suite 236. Any bid received after the closing time will be returned
unopened.
Plans and specifications may be procured from the Public Works Department, via
email at Engineering@pasadenatx.gov . No bids may be withdrawn after the scheduled closing time for receiving of bids, for at least thirty (30) days.
The "OWNER" reserves the right to reject any and/or all bids and to waive formalities.
MANDATORY PRE-BID MEETINGS - BIDDERS ARE REQUIRED TO ATTEND
BOTH PRE-BID MEETINGS:
Tuesday, MAY 28, 2024 at 10:00 a.m.
Thursday, MAY 30, 2024 at 10:00 a.m.
Conference Room, 1149 Ellsworth Drive, Fifth Floor,
Pasadena, Texas 77506
This project is financially assisted with federal funds from the U.S. Department of
Treasury. Pertinent legal requirements are included in the bid package. Equal opportunity employer.
The work to be performed under this contract is subject to the requirements of section 3 of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968, as amended, 12 U.S.C.
1701u (section 3). The purpose of section 3 is to ensure that employment and other
economic opportunities covered by section 3, shall, to the greatest extent feasible, be
directed to low- and very low-income persons, particularly persons who are recipients
of HUD assistance for housing. Section 3 Residents, Minority Business Enterprises,
Small Business Enterprises, Women Business Enterprises, and labor surplus area
firms are encouraged to submit bids.
Attention is called to the fact that not less than, the federally determined prevailing
(Davis-Bacon and Related Acts) wage rate, as contained in the contract documents,
must be paid on this project. In addition, the successful bidder must ensure that employees and applicants for employment are not discriminated against because of
race, color, religion, sex, sexual identity, gender identity, or national origin.
All contractors/subcontractors whose System for Award Management (SAM.gov)
registration is not active or that are debarred, suspended or otherwise excluded from
or ineligible for participation on federal assistance programs may not undertake any
activity in part or in full under this project.
Publish: MAY 15, 2024 & MAY 22, 2024
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
Sealed proposals, in duplicate, marked “ Refuse Bags ” will be received at the office of
the City Secretary, City Hall, 710 E. San Augustine Street, Deer Park, Harris County,
Texas, until 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 29, 2024 at which time the bids are to be
opened and publicly read in the Council Chambers (per Council Chambers clock).
The City of Deer Park does not accept faxed bids.
The City of Deer Park is not responsible for sealed bids or proposals labeled incorrectly
or mislabeled.
Proposals are to be submitted on bidders’ own forms including name of bidder, contact
and telephone number. The City reserves the right to reject any and all bids or parts of
bids, to waive any and all technicalities, and to accept any bid or part of bid which it
deems advantageous to itself.
BY ORDER OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF DEER PARK, TEXAS
Dated this 8th day of May, 2024.
Angela M. Smith, TRMC, CMC
City Secretary
City of Deer Park, Texas

A8 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

A

PEARLAND JOURNAL

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A10 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

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ADVICE: Explaining Medicare enrollment. A2

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AN EDITION OF

STRAWBERRY FEST

The annual Pasadena Strawberry Festival returns to town this week at the Pasadena Fairgrounds. The annual celebration features what is said to
be the larges strawberry shortcake, seen above last year. Below are scenes of the 2022 Strawberry Festival parade. The festival begins Thursday,
with free admission from 5-11 p.m. The event continues from 3 p.m.-midnight Friday, 10 a.m.-midnight Saturday and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday. Music
performances are planned each night, with mutton bustin’ and carnival rides among other events. Visit strawberryfest.ort
STAFF FILE PHOTOS

LOCAL

LOCAL

BUC-EE’S GAS
STATION

ELECTRIC
VEHICLES

Buc-ee’s comes in first place
worldwide for the size of its
convenience stores and length
of its car washes.

For first time, 2 Teslas
ranked among the Houston area’s most popular
models last year.

PAGE A7

PAGE A7

A2 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

PASADENA CITIZEN

ADVICE
HOME IMPROVEMENT

Zinsser hits the spot for antique furniture
Many of my
customers have
furniture from
their parents or
relatives that
mean so much
Trudy
to them. It
Chuoke
might have been
Mom’s dressing
H AP PY
H A N DYMA N
table, or Dad’s
bedside table
and just looking at them brings
back many memories. I have a
few things that I have kept
from my late husband, and I
just like having them in the
house...a sweet remembrance
of the time we had together.
But sometimes the furniture
pieces that you get from your
family have been in storage. I
have this friend who collected
from her mom’s estate. The
furniture and clothing had
been stored in a barn. A very

stinky barn. And the furniture
had adsorbed all the odor.
She told me about all the
different things she tried before
coming to me. She tried airing
it out, she put charcoal in the
drawers, she cleaned it with a
degreaser, but the furniture
smelled so bad she couldn’t
keep it in the house. So she
asked me for help.
Zinsser makes great primers.
Primers for sheetrock that is
crumbling, primers for peeling
paint and a primer for odor.
Older furniture is made so well,
all wood no composite or laminates and that old wood can be
a sponge absorbing odors.
Odor Killing Primer can be
painted on a surface, and it will
seal in the offensive smell. My
friend sealed all the drawers
and the inside of the drawer.
Then she wanted to put a new

finish on the outside of the
furniture, and I suggested Varathane. Her pieces now made
their way into the house.
Another way to use Zinsser
is on kitchen cabinets. If you
had smoke damage from a
kitchen fire and nothing gets
rid of the odor in the cabinets.
You don’t have to have your
whole kitchen torn down. Try
Zinsser first. I used it on my
kitchen cabinets because the
previous owner was a smoker.
That smoke permeated into the
cabinets and when I would
leave for a trip and come backthe whole house had this lingering smell like someone had
been smoking inside my house.
When I finally figured out
what was causing the odor…..I
used Zinsser. All I had to do
was seal the inside of all the
cabinets, and there was no

lingering odor when I returned
from the trip. And this primer
goes on milky so you can see
where you have applied the
primer and then dries clear.

Now to some great
email…..

Question: After listening
to your Saturday afternoon
show on WOAI, I have decided to remove the silicone
caulk in my shower. So how
can I remove the caulk and
what caulk would you suggest that I replace for the
silicone?
Answer: Contractor’s DeSolv-It is great for removing
silicone caulk. First, use a single edged razor blade to cut the
caulk right down the middlw
and along each side. Then
spray the caulk with De-Solv-It.
Spray every 15 minutes for an

hour. Then re-caulk with Sashco Sealant Clean Seal. It has a
7-year guarantee to resist mildew. Allow 48 hours to cure.
Question: I have slippery
steps on a small outdoor
deck. I know that you paint
them with a texture paint,
but I love the color of the
deck and I don’t want to
change that – so is there
something else that is not an
abrasive tread.
Answer: Absolutely yes!
There is a tread that is soft to
the touch but will provide traction and a safe step. They are
called Handi Treads. I like
them because they are translucent and don’t stand out on the
deck. You can use Handi
Treads on wet surfaces also like
in the tub and shower.
www.happyhandyman.com

HEALTH CARE

Medicare enrollment process explained
Toni: I need
to make the
right Medicare
decision because I turn 65
in August and
have
not had a
Toni
health plan for
King
2 years. I do
M E D ICA RE
not know
ADV IC E
where to start
or what to do.
My friends are advising me if
I do not sign up for Medicare
when I turn 65, I will be making a major Medicare mistake.
Can you please simplify the
Medicare enrollment process?
Thanks, Toni
Cynthia, Alvin

Hi Cynthia: Medicare is exploding with an American turning 65 every 8 seconds.
The Medicare basics America
needs to know are:

1) Remember to enroll at the

right time:

a) Turning 65 and receiving
your Social Security check, your
“Welcome to Medicare” kit will
be mailed to you with your
Medicare card 90 days before
you turn 65.
b) Turning 65 and NOT receiving your Social Security check and
not working full time with true
employer group health insurance from either you or your
spouse’s work, you may want to
enroll in Medicare Parts A and
B online via www.ssa.gov.
c) Turning 65, working full-time
with “true” employer group health
insurance whether through your
or your spouse’s employer benefits may want to delay enrolling
in Medicare until you or your
spouse retire or are laid off.

2) Medicare is not free

Medicare covers a lot and
there is a cost associated with
Medicare Parts A and B. The

premium for Part A is at no cost
if you worked 10 years or 40
quarters and paid Medicare
taxes. Medicare Part B has a
premium which is means-tested
depending on your annual income. In 2024, most Medicare
beneficiaries pay $174.70 each
month for their Part B premium. Medicare Part A (hospital)
deductible for 2024 is $1,632, not
once a year but is every 60 days
or 6 times a year. The 2024
Medicare Part B deductible is
$240 once a year with Medicare
paying 80% of the Medicareapproved amount and you paying the remaining 20%.

3) Learn the different
Medicare Parts (A, B, C and
D)
Original Medicare is Medicare Parts A and B which covers hospital, medical and provider expenses. Medicare Part
C, known as Medicare Ad-

vantage plan, is another way of
receiving your Medicare benefits. Part D is the Medicare
Prescription Drug plan that can
be a stand-alone plan with Original Medicare and a Medicare
Supplement, or with a Medicare
Advantage plan that includes a
prescription drug plan.

4) “Original” Medicare

Original Medicare Parts A
and B have no network. Medicare Part A covers in-patient
hospital, skilled nursing/rehab
facility, home health and hospice care. Medicare Part B covers doctor services whether at
the office or surgical care, outpatient surgery/services, lab/Xrays, MRIs, durable medical
equipment, and preventative
services.

5) Medicare Advantage Plan
(MAPD)
You must be enrolled in Orig-

inal Medicare to qualify for a
Medicare Advantage Plan and
can select various Medicare
Advantage plans (Medicare Part
C) such as an HMO or PPO
plans that are offered by private
insurance companies. A MAPD
plan has an insurance provider
network with health care professionals or facilities that provide lower in-network rates.
You do not use your Medicare
(red, white, and blue) card because Medicare will pay the
MAPD plan for your care. You
will have co-pays, deductibles
and maximum out-of-pocket
costs associated with your
medical care.
Confused about Medicare Workshop in Katy is “Live” Thursday,
May 23 at 6 p.m. at Spring Creek
BBQ-Katy, 21000 Katy Frwy,
Katy, TX. 77449. RSVP:832/5198664 or visit www.tonisays.com.
Dinner not included.

PASADENA CITIZEN

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A3

A4 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

PASADENA CITIZEN

CALENDAR
MAY 15
Healthy carbs. Texas A&M
AgriLife Extension instructors detail an ideal diet for
disease risk reduction.
Noon-1 p.m. Evelyn Meador
Branch Library, 2400 N.
Meyer Ave. Free, registration required. Info:
tinyurl.com/23rfjhu3.
Dungeons & Dragons.
Middle and high school
players choose characters
and confront deadly perils.
4:15-5:45 p.m. Evelyn Meador Branch Library, 2400 N.
Meyer Ave. Free, registration required. Info:
tinyurl.com/7ffabthc.
Character sketch. Teens
learn to draw their favorite
video game characters. 7-8
p.m. Pearland Tom Reid
Library, 3522 Liberty Drive.
Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/m6uuuwj8.

MAY 16
Cinema Sequels. The Next
Chapter presents “The
Amazing Spider-Man 2”
(2014). 10:15 a.m.-1 p.m.
Clear Lake City-County
Freeman Branch Library,
16616 Diana Lane. Free.
Info:
tinyurl.com/4ywphbmw.
Talk time. English learners
polish their conversation
skills and learn new expressions. 1-2 p.m. West
Pearland Library, 11801
Shadow Creek Parkway.
Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/3cpe2ncx.
Watercolor work. Artists
use plastic bags and markers to create a print. 4:305:30 p.m. Clear Lake CityCounty Freeman Branch
Library, 16616 Diana Lane.
Free, registration required.
Info: tinyurl.com/2n7pxyuk.
Chill Zone. Elementaryage students unwind with
sensory activities, crafts
and reading. 4:30-5:30
p.m. Clear Lake City-County Freeman Branch Library,
16616 Diana Lane. Free,
tickets available 30 minutes before the program.
Info:
tinyurl.com/43tzu2m9.
Story time. A master naturalist leads craft hour.
4:30-5:30 p.m. Evelyn
Meador Branch Library,
2400 N. Meyer Ave. Free.
Info: tinyurl.com/3zahnet5.
Watercolor workshop.
Artists create bookmarks
using fundamental watercolor techniques. 5-6 p.m.
Evelyn Meador Branch

Library, 2400 N. Meyer Ave.
Free, registration required.
Info: tinyurl.com/4kch8sce.
Language lesson. Volunteer Eva Reyes leads
“Spanish for Absolute
Beginners.” 6-7 p.m.
Friendswood Library, 416 S.
Friendswood Drive. Free.
Info: tinyurl.com/2r9jnv9z.
Book launch. Author Barbara Gruener introduces
her newest book, “Birdy
and Mipps.” 6-7 p.m.
Friendswood Library, 416 S.
Friendswood Drive. Free.
Info:
tinyurl.com/ypw6n8vn.
Collage art. A volunteer
instructor provides materials and project guidance.
6-8 p.m. Friendswood
Library, 416 S. Friendswood
Drive. Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/5ct8aas2.
Regency Reads. Austenites, Anglophiles and romance lovers review
Amanda Grange’s “Mr.
Darcy’s Diary.” 7-8 p.m.
Friendswood Library, 416 S.
Friendswood Drive. Free.
Info:
tinyurl.com/4usvvmt5.

MAY 17
Computer refurb. Learn
how to install Linux on an
old laptop. 1-2 p.m. Evelyn
Meador Branch Library,
2400 N. Meyer Ave. Free,
registration required. Info:
tinyurl.com/h8e8rbwu.
Book sale. Shoppers
browse books, movies and
music. Proceeds support
library services and programs. 3-5:30 p.m. Friendswood Library, 416 S.
Friendswood Drive. $5-$10.
Info: tinyurl.com/27pbtf5k.
Meet the author. Girl
Scout Carrie Durso reads
from her children’s book,
“You’re Not Alone Little
Zebra.” 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Friendswood Library, 416 S.
Friendswood Drive. Free.
Info: tinyurl.com/2sbu7z29.

MAY 18
Morning prayer. Moe
Mays, executive director of
PCS Ministries, leads the
Friendswood Community
Prayer Breakfast. 7:10-9
a.m. Trinity Fellowship, 301
Leisure Lane. $10. Info:
RSVP to Steve Martin,
steve.n.martin@sbcglobal.net or 832-607-1734.
Book sale. Shoppers
browse books, movies and
music. Proceeds support
library services and programs. 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

A New Dawn

Two-year-old terrier mix Bubba brings a sweet,
happy and loving energy to the halls of A New Dawn
Pet Adoption, 202 W. San Augustine St., staff say.
Bubba is vaccinated, neutered and
heartworm-negative, according to his bio. Learn
more at www.anewdawnpetadoption.org.
Friendswood Library, 416 S.
Friendswood Drive. $5-$10.
Info: tinyurl.com/mspj8yfs.
Teen advisory board.
Volunteers between the
ages of 12 and 18 earn
service hours as they share
thoughts about library
programming. 11 a.m.-noon.
West Pearland Library,
11801 Shadow Creek Parkway. Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/2duk86sn.
Writers Corner. Authors
discuss their work and best
practices. 1:30-3:30 p.m.
Clear Lake City-County
Freeman Branch Library,
16616 Diana Lane. Free.
Info: tinyurl.com/mr3nrvby.
3D orientation. Instructors
demonstrate the library’s
3D printing capabilities.
Children under 12 must be
accompanied by an adult.
5:30-7 p.m. Clear Lake
City-Freeman Branch Library, 16616 Diana Lane.
Free, registration required.
Info:
tinyurl.com/2p8nyxmp.
Mariachi music. Latin
Grammy nominated Mariachi Herencia de Mexico
performs. 8 p.m. The
Grand 1894 Opera House,
2020 Postoffice St. $25$88. Info:
www.thegrand.com.

MAY 20
Open garden. Visitors
meet Harris County Master
Gardeners and discover a
variety of exhibits, including vegetable, rose and
tropical. 8:30-11 a.m. Genoa
Friendship Gardens, 1210
Genoa Red Bluff Road.
Free. Info:
hcmga.tamu.edu.
Book club. Readers review
“Praying with Jane Eyre,”
by Vanessa Zoltan. 11
a.m.-12:30 p.m. Evelyn
Meador Branch Library,
2400 N. Meyer Ave. Free.
Info: tinyurl.com/jvh8na2k.
Page Turners. Book club
members check out “Beautiful Country,” by Qian Julie
Wang. Noon-1 p.m. Clear
Lake City-County Freeman
Branch Library, 16616 Diana
Lane. Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/4umdmwwd.
Advanced Spanish. Language learners polish their
skills with Miss Naheily. 3-4
p.m. Evelyn Meador Branch
Library, 2400 N. Meyer Ave.
Free, registration required.
Info: tinyurl.com/3h2zs2hp.
Learn Spanish. Beginners
practice their vocabulary.
4-5 p.m. Evelyn Meador
Branch Library, 2400 N.
Meyer Ave. Free, registration required. Info:

tinyurl.com/ttzsznuy.
Diabetes education. Registered nurse Charlotte
Wisnewski reviews physical activity guidelines for
disease management. 4-5
p.m. Friendswood Library,
416 S. Friendswood Drive.
Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/5n8jt8kn.
Play Testers. Competitors
take turns over blob-based
Puyo Puyo and blockbased Tetris. 5-6 p.m.
Friendswood Library, 416 S.
Friendswood Drive. Free.
Info:
tinyurl.com/mt5k3nhw.
Checkmate. Chess players
gather for friendly competition. Participants under 14
must be accompanied by
an adult. 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Friendswood Library, 416 S.
Friendswood Drive. Free.
Info:
tinyurl.com/msau52jb.
Novel Discussions. Readers share thoughts about
“Maame,” by Jessica
George. 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Pearland Tom Reid Library,
3522 Liberty Drive. Free.
Info: tinyurl.com/mr2jkey6.

MAY 21
Freeman Needlecrafters.
Hobbyists make progress
on knitting, crochet and
embroidery projects. 10
a.m.-noon. Clear Lake
City-County Freeman
Branch Library, 16616 Diana
Lane. Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/ycx5pta8.
Business counseling.
Mentors share expertise
with small business owners. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Evelyn
Meador Branch Library,
2400 North Meyer Ave.
Free, registration required.
Info: tinyurl.com/wdj7s5vx.
Green Thumb series.
Experts from Harris County
Master Gardeners provide
tips for differentiating
between beneficial and
damaging insects. 11 a.m.noon. Online. Free. Info:
facebook.com/harriscountypl/events.
Chair yoga. Health and
wellness coach Herban Girl
offers modified physical
poses as well as meditation and breathing techniques. 11 a.m.-noon. Evelyn
Meador Branch Library,
2400 North Meyer Ave.
Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/2c74txmf.
Intermediate Spanish.
Instructor Tiffany Salinas
guides adult learners
through vocabulary, gram-

mar and conversational
skills. 11 a.m.-noon. Friendswood Library, 416 S.
Friendswood Drive. Free.
Info: tinyurl.com/fpk3ykt6.
Shapes and sheets. Staff
provide an overview of the
library’s vinyl cutting and
Cricut equipment. Children
under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. 5:30-7
p.m. Clear Lake City-County Freeman Branch Library,
16616 Diana Lane. Free,
registration required. Info:
tinyurl.com/47uzr22e.
Laser workshop. Discover
the basics of creating with
a laser cutter. Participants
under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. 6-7:45
p.m. Evelyn Meador Branch
Library, 2400 N. Meyer Ave.
Free, registration required.
Info:
tinyurl.com/5n7xhk9m.

MAY 22
Story time. A City of Seabrook youth ambassadorship program includes
conservation-themed
stories, games and crafts. 11
a.m.-noon. Evelyn Meador
Branch Library, 2400 N.
Meyer Ave. Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/5azepav3.
Game development.
Learn to program using
Microsoft MakeCode Arcade. Children under 12
must be accompanied by
an adult. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Clear Lake City-County
Freeman Branch Library,
16616 Diana Lane. Free,
registration required. Info:
tinyurl.com/2k6d9236.
Yarn craft. Teens and
adults work on crochet,
knitting and needlepoint
projects. 4-5:30 p.m.
Friendswood Library, 416 S.
Friendswood Drive. Free.
Info:
tinyurl.com/22x48wmr.
Mental health. Wellness
coach Valerie Coyle presents “Anxiety SOS” and
offers coping skills. 7-8:30
p.m. Friendswood Library,
416 S. Friendswood Drive.
Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/3sjcxyzd.
Reading group. The Hoffstetter Science Fiction &
Fantasy Book Club meets
virtually for a discussion of
“Emperor’s Soul,” by Brandon Sanderson. Contact
Clear Lake City-County
Freeman Branch Library,
832-927-5420, for a meeting link. 7-9 p.m. Online.
Free. Info:
tinyurl.com/5xwxveve.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A5

PASADENA CITIZEN

At Your Service

HoustonChronicle.com/Place-Legals legals@chron.com 713.362.6868

TO ADVERTISE: Call 281-378-1000
BUSINESS HOURS: 8am-5pm, Mon-Fri

City of Pasadena, Texas
Public Auction
Saturday, May 18, 2024

Outdoor

RIO GRANDE FENCE COMPANY
“A PROFESSIONAL FENCE COMPANY”

WOOD | WROUGHT IRON
PVC | CHAIN LINK
DRIVE GATES
ACCESS SYSTEMS
www.riograndefence.net
CONTACT US 713-862-7320
Remodel

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Painting
Services
Painting
& Remodeling
• Kitchen &
Bathroom
• Sheet Rock
• Texture
• Trim Work
• Flooring

No Money Down

Exterior

Insured & Bonded

• Hardi Plank-Siding
• Wood Replacement
• Fence & Decks
• Gutters
• Roofing
• Masonry Work

Family Owned & Operated
References Available

“No Job Too Big Or Small!”

281-235-4932
Repair

rent-a-spouse
All Home Repairs
Small or LARGE

Services

ART PAINTING
& REMODELING

Year

MAKE/Color/Style

License

VIN

UNIT #

Year

MAKE/Color/Style

License

VIN

211411

2003

PONTIAC/SILVER/
SUNFIRE

CP7C068

1G2JB12F237136247

240413

2003

FORD/WHITE/
E-SERIES CARGO

DW2T599

1FTRE14W93HB29471

230146

2005

FORD/BLUE/F-150

NONE

1FTPW12525KD04390

240416

2013

HUNDAI/SILVER/
SONATA

NONE

5NPEC4AB5DH649452

2000

HONDA/GRAY/
ODYSSEY

NONE

2HKRL1857YH605328
240428

1995

HONDA/BLACK/
ACCORD

X938094

1HGCE1821SA005216

2005

NISSAN/WHITE
/XTERRA

SSN7051

240431

2000

CHEVROLET/
GRAY/
SILVERADO

3MMDW

2GCEC19T3Y1109990

240440

2011

CHRYSLER/
BLACK/200

MCC3275

1C3BC2FG4BN580766

240444

2003

GMC/TAN/ENVOY
XL

NONE

1GKES16S636102309

240448

2006

NISSAN/SILVER/
ALTIMA

BVD3681

1N4AL11DX6N402614

240450

1984

HOMEMADE
TRAILER/
BLACK/ UTILITY

360546J

NONE

240460

2009

FORD/GRAY/
FUSION

NONE

3FAHP07ZX9R206397

240465

2000

SATURN/SILVER/
S-SERIES

FPS8823

1G8ZH5284YZ220498

240469

2019

MERCEDESBENZ/
RED/ GLA

SDW9455

WDCTG4EB2KU010528

240473

2012

CHEVROLET/
BLACK/
SONIC

NONE

1G1JA5SH9C4110214

231313

• Cabinets
• Bathroom &
Kitchen Remodeling
• Siding

• Fence
• Wood Repair

Tony Hyska - Owner
(832) 877-9565

artpaintingandremodeling@outlook.com

painting
Interior/Exterior Painting • Sheetrock
Textures • Power Washing
Like Us on Facebook
and Get $100 Off
Min. of $500

Insured,
References

Call Luis Fuentes

713-298-8393
www.smart-improvements.com

Employment
TO ADVERTISE:

recruitment@hcnonline.com

PROJECT MANAGERS

Preferred Engineering, LP
Nassau Bay, TX
See Below to Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Exp Req/See Below
Full-Time

PROJECT MANAGERS, Nassau Bay, TX: Review project proposal/
plan to determine time frame, funding limitations, procedures, staffing, & allotment of resources to various phases of mechanical and
industrial engineering projects. Prepare project reports for management, client, or other stakeholders. Some local travel req’d. Send res
to: Preferred Engineering, LP, careers@preferred-engineering.com

SR. PROGRAMMER/ANALYST III

American National Group Services LLC
League City, TX
See Below To Apply

Edu Req/See Below
Yrs Exp/See Below
Full-Time

American National Group Services LLC (League City, TX) seeks a
Sr. Programmer/Analyst III to apply both technical concepts, skills
and knowledge of internal policies and procedures to solve complex
application development problems. Bachelor’s in Info Tech, Software
Eng., or closely rltd field. + 5 yrs. exp. Must be able to work in
various unanticipated locations throughout the U.S. To submit
resumes, apply online at jobs.americannational.com.

Planning your
garage sale?
www.southeasttexas.com

Advertise it!
281-378-1000

5N1AN08UX5C634365

231817

2009

ACURA/SILVER/
TSX

LCL5343

JH4CU26699C012649

232164

2011

TRAILER/SILVER/
ALUMINUM TRLR

NONE

4YMCL0816BT020429

2023

JEEP/RED/
WRANGLER
UNLIMITED

SGK2849

2007

TOYOTA/SILVER/
AVALON

NONE

240159

2005

TOYOTA/WHITE/
SEQUOIA

LLC4058

5TDZT34AX5S240339

240163

2001

CHEVROLET/
WHITE/
TAHOE

NBJ3143

1GNEC13TX1R187485

SATURN/SILVER/
S-SERIES

KTR2508

232340

240156

240170

2000

1C4JJXSJ3PW500113

4T1BK36B47U180191

1G8ZK5276YZ219006

240173

1998

FORD/
BLACK/F-150

BJY8057

1FTZX1764WKB54713

240175

2008

HONDA/SILVER/
CIVIC

NONE

2HGFA16548H524910

240182

2015

CHEVROLET/
WHITE/
SILVERADO

TKW1264

1GC1CUEGXFF127059

240474

2020

CHEVROLET/
SILVER/
SILVERADO

NONE

1GC1YNE76LF199749

240190

2010

VOLKSWAGEN/
WHITE/
JETTA

NONE

3VWRJ7AJXAM151203

240475

2012

CHEVROLET/
RED/
SONIC

NONE

1G1JA5SH9C4110214

240192

2009

TOYOTA/RED/
COROLLA

NONE

1NXBU40E49Z080789

240476

2017

GMC/BLUE/
SIERRA 2500HD

NONE

1GT12UEYXHF139470

240206

2007

ACURE/DARK
BLUE/TL

NONE

19UUA66207A002315

240478

2018

CHEVROLET/
BLACK/
TRAX

NONE

3GNCJLSB0JL189531

2007

CADILLAC/GRAY/
ESCALADE

RXJ2376

1GYFK63897R296029
240496

2004

CHEVROLET/
GREEN/
AVALANCE

NTB5845

3GNEC12T44G105563

2008

CHRYSLER/RED/
TOWN AND
COUNTRY

HLK0520

240502

2007

DODGE/ORANGE/
CALIBER

NHP4493

1B3HB48BX7D599617

2013

CADILLAC/BLUE/
ATS

NONE

240513

2002

FORD/GREEN/
EXPLORER

SNS2001

1FMDU65W72ZB15372

2001

CHEVROLET/
WHITE/
SILVERADO

JSY9954

24051

2004

OLDSMOBILE/
GOLD/
ALERO

CF8J569

1G3NL52F34C139183

FORD/BEIGE/
CROWN VICTORIA

GTG9779

240515

2004

CHEVROLET/TAN/
TAHOE

NONE

1GNEC13V14J304391

2003

INFINITI/SILVER/
G35

LHM4070

240519

2006

TOYOTA/WHITE/
CAMRY

BG2K935

4T1BE32K66U653861

2010

CHEVROLET/
SILVER/
SILVERADO

SSD4687

240523

2008

CHEVROLET/
GRAY/
COBALT

NONE

1G1AL58F287200939

2006

HONDA/WHITE/
ODYSSEY

RKS6399

240535

2008

BMW/DARK BLUE

HXM1876

WBANU53528CT05053

240272

2008

NISSAN/RED/
MAXIMA

NONE

1N4BA41E98C832704

240536

2012

KIA/WHITE/
FORTE

RKN5114

KNAFT4A25C5558620

240291

2011

HONDA/BLUE/
PILOT

GFB8151

5FNYF3H5XBB030761

240537

1998

HONDA/RED/CR-V

SDX8843

JHLRD2842WC016788

2003

1HGEM22543LO79059

HCW1738

1N4AA5AP9CC855234

HONDA/WHITE/
CIVIC

NKJ5893

2012

NISSAN/GRAY/
MAXIMA

240538

240297

2004

1FMRU15W64LB16821

RTX0020

2FMDK3GC1CBA80985

FORD/RED/
EXPEDITION

RTN7104

2012

FORD/BLACK/
EDGE

240540

240339

2000

1J4FT58S1YL111195

GFB8481

3N1AB6AP9AL721745

JEEP/BLACK/
CHEROKEE

GBX4930

2010

NISSAN/BLACK/
SENTRA

240547

240347

240350

2007

HONDA/SILVER/
FIT

BT9T882

JHMGD38677S009742

240550

2003

FORD/DARK
BLUE/
EXPLORER

NONE

1FMZU73W93ZA80320

240353

2013

HONDA/WHITE/
MOTORCYCLE

NONE

LALAF7006D3004217

240566

2010

LEXUS/WHITE/
IS 250C

HZV2324

JTHFF2C24A2503522

240368

2013

CHEVROLET/
WHITE/
SONIC

KMW7160

1G1JA5SH8D4127877

240569

2002

FORD/RED/
EXPEDITION

HHZ6441

1FMRU17L52LA56627

2008

CHEVROLET/TAN/
MALIBU

NONE

1G1ZK577X8F153908

2013

CHEVROLET/
WHITE/
EQUINOX

240571

240370

RKX7042

1GNALBEK3DZ111748
2006

TOYOTA/GOLD/
COROLLA

NONE

1NXBR32E06Z762024

240595

2004

FORD/
WHITE/F-350

NONE

1FDWF36P44EB51930

240612

1999

JEEP/RED/
GRAND
CHEROKEE

HDW2946

1J4G258S8XC624935

240617

2000

CHEVROLET/TAN/
SILVERADO

BZ25661

1GCEC14WXYZ367304

240624

2006

DODGE/RED/RAM
1500

CDZ1230

1D7HA18N46S607804

240626

2007

KIA/LIGHT BLUE

MCD0456

KNDMB233176109359

240636

2005

TOYOTA/TAN/
CAMRY

BKJ7041

4T1BE32K95U032306

240212

240215

240216

Interior - Exterior
• Sheetrock Repair
• Texture
• Carpentry
• Flooring

Cash, MasterCard, Visa, & American Express
(Debit or Credit)
NO CHECKS
Registration: Begins at 7:00 a.m.,
Saturday, Auction Starts at 9:00 a.m. sharp.

UNIT #

Ben Wortman - Owner
Cell: 281-610-5894

* No Warranty; As Is-Where Is; No Delivery.
* Free Parking. * All Sales Final, No Refunds.
* All Items Sold “AS IS” To Highest Bidder.
Viewing: Saturday (May 18, 2024)
7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.

A 5% buyer’s premium will be added to the final purchase price.
Auctioneer services provided by: Bear Hebert, Texas Auctioneer License # 13995
*City Of Pasadena Reserves The Right To Remove Items From Sale Without Notice.
For more information call:
Bear Hebert 832-731-3203
City Impound Lot
713-475-7047
ABANDONED & CONFISCATED VEHICLE AUCTION

230749

Free Estimates

Interior

Saturday, May 18, 2024
3124 Red Bluff Rd.
Pasadena, Texas 77503
Viewing: Friday (May 17, 2024)
8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

240226

240229

240242

240245

240257

2002

2A8HR44H18R721793

1G6AB5RA5D0112907

1GCEC19T01E241139

2FAFP74W02X121571

JNKCV51E33M300665

1GCSKSE33AZ163594

5FNRL38786B434100

240578
240376

NONE

HYUNDAI/WHITE/
ELANTRA

NONE

5NPDH4AE0BH041973

240377

2005

HONDA/SILVER/
ACCORD

KBB9188

1HGCM56745A019043

240387

2008

SCION/BLACK/XB

RYC9203

JTLKE50E181010503

240393

2003

HONDA/BLACK/
PILOT

BCL9565

2HKYF18743H594382

240394

2009

NISSAN/BLUE/
ALTIMA

PMH4944

1N4AL21E49N407987

240395

2002

FORD/YELLOW/
ESCAPE

DCW3641

1FMYU03122KA17798

240350

2007

HONDA/SILVER/
FIT

BT9T882

JHMGD38677S009742

240405

2007

FORD/GRAY/
FUSION

4782S73

3FAHP07Z57R279206

CLEAR LAKE CITY COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION, INC.
The Clear Lake City Community Association, Inc. will hold its Annual Election of
Trustees on May 18, 2024 from 7am-7pm in Room B, at the Kermit Applewhite Sports
and Recreation Center, located at 16511 Diana Lane, Houston, TX 77062 for early voting
and voting day.
2024 Slate of Candidates (3 Year Term):
Oakbrook: 1) Robert Kuhl
Oakbrook West: 1) Terry Canup
Meadowgreen: 1) David Martin

A call for a public hearing in the Pasadena City Council Chambers at 6:00 p.m. on
June 5, 2024 for the purpose of hearing any interested citizen on the proposed
budget for the Crime Control and Prevention District for the budget year beginning
October 1, 2024 and ending September 30, 2025. City Council Chambers is located
at 1149 Ellsworth Drive, Pasadena, TX 77506.
PUBLISH: MAY 15, 22, and 29, 2024

Early Voting Dates: May 16 & May 17, 2024, 11am – 7pm
Absentee balloting is allowed. To receive an absentee ballot, call 281-488-0360 and ask
to speak to the Election Judge or send a letter requesting an “Absentee Ballot” written
on the outside of the envelope to the Attn: Election Judge, c/o CLCCA, 16511 Diana Lane,
Houston, TX 77062. Your absentee ballot must be received in the mail by May 17, 2024
in order to be counted. You must bring your original ballot to the Election Judge if you
think your ballot would otherwise be late as no voter will be allowed to vote if there is
an outstanding absentee ballot registered to that voter. Absentee ballots first mailing
will be no earlier than May 8, 2024.
Write-in candidates are permitted. Qualifications are listed in the CLCCA Bylaws 4.5.
Candidate must submit the Write-in Application and pay the $20 fee to have a background check performed by 5pm on May 13, 2024.
For further information contact 281-488-0360 or www.clcca.org.

The following vacant property has accumulation or growth of high grass, weeds, rubbish, carrion filth, brush and debris, bees and / or stagnant water, including stagnant
water in a swimming pool. These violations must be removed or remedied from the
entire property. If you are the owner or know how to contact the owner, please contact the City of Pasadena Health Department at 713-475-5529.
1. 1903 Alabama St., LT 5 BLK 3, BLUE GRASS ESTATES SEC 2, Pasadena, Tx 77503
2. 2711 Norman St., LT 27 BLK 3, RED BLUFF TERRACCE SEC 7, Pasadena, Tx 77506

A6 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

PASADENA CITIZEN

HoustonChronicle.com/Place-Legals
TEXAS COMMISSION ON ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

EXAMPLE A
NOTICE OF APPLICATION AND PRELIMINARY DECISION
FOR AN AIR QUALITY PERMIT
PROPOSED AIR QUALITY PERMIT NUMBER 3467B AND
NONATTAINMENT PERMIT NUMBER N306
APPLICATION AND PRELIMINARY DECISION. LBC Houston, L.P.,
2625 Bay Area Blvd Ste 200, Houston, TX 77058-1551, has applied to the
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for issuance of
Proposed Air Quality Permit Number 3467B and Nonattainment Permit
Number N306, which would authorize construction of a LBC Houston
Bayport Terminal at 11666 Port Rd, Seabrook, Harris County, Texas 77586.
AVISO DE IDIOMA ALTERNATIVO. El aviso de idioma alternativo en
espanol está disponible en https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/air/
newsourcereview/airpermits-pendingpermit-apps. This application was
submitted to the TCEQ on January 3, 2023. The existing facility will emit
the following air contaminants in amounts significant enough to require a
Nonattainment Review: volatile organic compounds. In addition, the facility
will emit: carbon monoxide, hazardous air pollutants, nitrogen oxides,
organic compounds, particulate matter including particulate matter with
diameters of 10 microns or less and 2.5 microns or less and sulfur dioxide.
No other pollutant emission increase will result from this facility.
Harris County has been designated nonattainment for ozone because
Continuous Ambient Air Monitoring Stations have shown that ambient
concentrations of ozone exceed the National Ambient Air Quality Standards
(NAAQS) for ozone. Ground-level ozone is not emitted directly into the air,
but is created by chemical reactions between nitrogen oxides (NOx) and
volatile organic compounds (VOC). The Federal Clean Air Act (FCAA)
requires that new major stationary sources and major modifications at
sources in designated nonattainment areas must satisfy nonattainment
new source review prior to commencement of construction.
As required by the nonattainment review, all air contaminants have
been evaluated and the “lowest achievable emission rate” has been
addressed for the control of these contaminants. The emission increases
from this project will be offset with emission reductions by a ratio of 1.3 to
1. Furthermore, the applicant has demonstrated that the benefits of the
existing facility significantly outweigh the environmental and social costs
imposed as a result of its location, construction, or modification. Finally,
the applicant has certified that all major stationary sources owned or
operated by the applicant in the state are in compliance or on a schedule for
compliance with all applicable state and federal emission limitations and
standards. The executive director, therefore, has made the preliminary
determination to issue this permit.
As required by the nonattainment review, all air contaminants have
been evaluated and the “lowest achievable emission rate” has been
addressed for the control of these contaminants. The emission increases
from this project will be offset with emission reductions by a ratio of 1.3 to
1. Furthermore, the applicant has demonstrated that the benefits of the
existing facility significantly outweigh the environmental and social costs
imposed as a result of its location, construction, or modification. Finally,
the applicant has certified that all major stationary sources owned or
operated by the applicant in the state are in compliance or on a schedule for
compliance with all applicable state and federal emission limitations and
standards. The executive director, therefore, has made the preliminary
determination to issue this permit.
The executive director has completed the technical review of the application
and prepared a draft permit which, if approved, would establish the
conditions under which the facility must operate. The permit application,
the executive director’s preliminary decision which includes the draft
permit, the executive director’s preliminary determination summary, and
the executive director’s air quality analysis will be available for viewing
and copying at the TCEQ central office, the TCEQ Houston regional
office, and at Evelyn Meador Branch Library, 2400 North Meyer Avenue,
Seabrook, Harris County, Texas, beginning the first day of publication of
this notice. The facility’s compliance file, if any exists, is available for public
review at the TCEQ Houston Regional Office, 5425 Polk Street, Suite H,
Houston, Texas.
INFORMATION AVAILABLE ONLINE. These documents are accessible
through the Commission’s Web site at www.tceq.texas.gov/goto/cid:
the executive director’s preliminary decision which includes the draft
permit, the executive director’s preliminary determination summary,
the air quality analysis, and, once available, the executive director’s
response to comments and the final decision on this application. Access
the Commissioners’ Integrated Database (CID) using the above link and
enter the permit number for this application. The public location mentioned
as follows: Evelyn Meador Branch Library, 2400 North Meyer Avenue,
Seabrook, Harris County, Texas, provides public access to the internet.
This link to an electronic map of the site or facility’s general location is
provided as a public courtesy and not part of the application or notice.
For exact location, refer to application. https://gisweb.tceq.texas.gov/
LocationMapper/?marker=-95.025277,29.6075&level=13.
PUBLIC COMMENT/PUBLIC MEETING. You may submit public
comments or request a public meeting about this application. The purpose
of a public meeting is to provide the opportunity to submit comment or to
ask questions about the application. The TCEQ will hold a public meeting
if the executive director determines that there is a significant degree of
public interest in the application, if requested by an interested person, or
if requested by a local legislator. A public meeting is not a contested case
hearing. You may submit additional written public comments within 30
days of the date of newspaper publication of this notice in the manner set
forth in the AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION paragraph
below.
After the deadline for public comment, the executive director will consider
the comments and prepare a response to all public comment. The
response to comments, along with the executive director’s decision on the
application, will be mailed to everyone who submitted public comments
or is on a mailing list for this application. The mailing will also provide
instructions for requesting a contested case hearing or reconsideration of
the executive director’s decision.
OPPORTUNITY FOR A CONTESTED CASE HEARING. After the
deadline for public comment, the executive director will consider the
comments and prepare a response to all relevant and material or
significant public comment. The response to comments, along with the
executive director’s decision on the application, will be mailed to everyone
who submitted public comments or is on a mailing list for this application.
The mailing will also provide instructions for requesting a contested case
hearing or reconsideration of the executive director’s decision.
A contested case hearing is a legal proceeding similar to a civil trial in a
state district court. A person who may be affected by emissions of air
contaminants from the facility is entitled to request a hearing. A contested
case hearing request must include the following: (1) your name (or for a
group or association, an official representative), mailing address, daytime
phone number; (2) applicant’s name and permit number; (3) the statement
“I/we request a contested case hearing;” (4) a specific description of how
you would be adversely affected by the application and air emissions from
the facility in a way not common to the general public; (5) the location and
distance of your property relative to the facility; (6) a description of how
you use the property which may be impacted by the facility; and (7) a list
of all disputed issues of fact that you submit during the comment period.
If the request is made by a group or association, one or more members
who have standing to request a hearing must be identified by name and
physical address. The interests the group or association seeks to protect
must also be identified. You may also submit your proposed adjustments
to the application/permit which would satisfy your concerns. Requests
for a contested case hearing must be submitted in writing within 30 days
following this notice to the Office of the Chief Clerk, at the address provided
in the information section below.
A contested case hearing will only be granted based on disputed issues
of fact or mixed questions of fact and law that are relevant and material
to the Commission’s decisions on the application. The Commission may
only grant a request for a contested case hearing on issues the requestor
submitted in their timely comments that were not subsequently withdrawn.
Issues that are not submitted in public comments may not be considered
during a hearing.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ACTION. If a timely contested case hearing
request is not received or if all timely contested case hearing requests
are withdrawn, the executive director may issue final approval of the
application. The response to comments, along with the executive director’s
decision on the application will be mailed to everyone who submitted public
comments or is on a mailing list for this application, and will be posted
electronically to the CID. If any timely hearing requests are received and
not withdrawn, the executive director will not issue final approval of the
permit and will forward the application and requests to the Commissioners
for their consideration at a scheduled commission meeting.
MAILING LIST. You may ask to be placed on a mailing list to obtain
additional information on this application by sending a request to the Office
of the Chief Clerk at the address below.
AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION. Public comments
and requests must be submitted either electronically at www14.tceq.
texas.gov/epic/eComment/, or in writing to the Texas Commission on
Environmental Quality, Office of the Chief Clerk, MC-105, P.O. Box 13087,
Austin, Texas 78711-3087. Please be aware that any contact information
you provide, including your name, phone number, email address and
physical address will become part of the agency’s public record. For more
information about this permit application or the permitting process, please
call the Public Education Program toll free at 1-800-687-4040. Si desea
información en Español, puede llamar al 1-800-687-4040.
Further information may also be obtained from LBC Houston, L.P. at the
address stated above or by calling Mr. John Powe, Regional Manager - Air
Compliance at (281) 961-3368.
Notice Issuance Date: May 9, 2024

ORDINANCE No. 2024-086
Amendment to the Code of Ordinances of the City of Pasadena, Texas at Chapter 31,
Standard Sign Code, Sec. 31-19 Electronic off-premises signs, to prohibit conversion
of existing off-premises ground sign structures to ones with an electronic face; providing a repealing clause; providing a savings clause; providing for severability; and providing a penalty.
SECTION 7. That it shall be unlawful and a misdemeanor to violate any provision or
requirement hereof and any person convicted of violating any provision, restriction,
requirement, or prohibition of this Chapter shall be fined in a sum of not more than
Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) for each violation. A separate offense shall be
deemed committed on each day during or on which a violation occurs or continues.
PASSED ON SECOND AND FINAL READING by the City Council of the City of Pasadena, Texas, in regular meeting in the City Hall this the 7th day of May, A.D., 2024.
APPROVED this the 7th day of May, A.D., 2024.
_______________________________
JEFF WAGNER, MAYOR
OF THE CITY OF PASADENA, TEXAS
ATTEST: APPROVED:
________________________
AMANDA F. MUELLER
CITY SECRETARY
CITY OF PASADENA, TEXAS

________________________
JAY W. DALE
CITY ATTORNEY
CITY OF PASADENA, TEXAS

legals@chron.com

713.362.6868
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE TO BIDDERS
The City of Pasadena, Texas invites you to submit sealed proposals for:
DEMOLITION AND CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENCE AT:
BID NO. 24-004 513 WAFER ST., PASADENA, TEXAS 77506
Sealed bids in duplicate will be received by the City of Pasadena, Texas on or before 4:00 p.m. CST, Monday, June 03, 2024 in the
Office of the City Secretary, 1149 Ellsworth Dr., Suite 200, Pasadena, Texas 77506. Bids will be publicly opened and read on Tuesday, June 04, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. in Room 236, 2nd Floor, City Hall, 1149 Ellsworth Dr., Pasadena, TX 77506.
Plans and specifications may be obtained by contacting the Community Development Department, at (713) 475-7294 or CommDev@
pasadenatx.gov.
All bidders must be registered with the System Award Management (SAM) a www.sam.gov, proof must be enclosed with bid.
Invitation for Bids documents may be obtained via the Internet by contacting DemandStar.com Commodity Code: 912-40 and
909-54 or from the City of Pasadena Purchasing Department web page at https://www.pasadenatx.gov/. If you do not have internet access, you may obtain the documents by contacting the Community Development Department at 1149 Ellsworth Dr., Pasadena,
Texas, 77506, (713) 475-7294.
Bids may be either mailed or hand delivered to the City Secretary’s Office, 1149 Ellsworth Drive, Suite 200, Pasadena, TX 77506.
Any bids received after the above stated time will be returned to the bidder unopened.
MAILING INSTRUCTIONS: ALL BIDS ARE TO BE ADDRESSED TO THE OFFICE OF THE CITY SECRETARY. PLEASE MARK PLAINLY ON THE ENVELOPE, IN THE LOWER LEFTHAND CORNER, “BID PROPOSAL.”
CAUTION: It is the bidder’s responsibility to ensure that bids are received in the City Secretary’s Office prior to the date and time
specified above. Receipt of qualifications in any other City office does not satisfy this requirement.
No bids may be withdrawn after the scheduled closing time for the receiving bids, for at least ninety (90) days.
The City reserves the right to reject any and/or all bids and to waive formalities.
Published in the Pasadena Citizen & on the City of Pasadena Website on May 15, 2024 & May 22, 2024

Notice is hereby given that the Board of
Adjustment of the City of Deer Park,
Texas will hold a public hearing at City
Hall, 710 East San Augustine Street, Deer
Park, Texas at 6:20 p.m. on the 3rd day of
June, 2024 at which time and place they
will hear all persons desiring to be heard
on or in connection with any matter or
question relating to the requests from the
following:
Michael and Amanda Olivarez for a four
(4) foot variance to the rear building line
to construct a patio cover at 2414 Pine
Lake Drive.
Lisa Plitt for a five (5) foot variance to the
side building line to construct a carport at
917 South Kaufman Drive.
Angela Smith, TRMC, CMC
City Secretary
Posted the 8th of May 2024
Published the 15th of May 2024
This Vehicle was towed and may be retrieved at BAYTOWN AUTO STORAGE,
5552 N Main St Baytown TX 77521. 281421-4666/0650337VSF YEAR: 2015
MAKE: Nissan MODEL: Pathfinder
VIN/SERIAL: 5N1AR2MM1FC626310 COLOR: SILVER LICENSE PLATE: NO PLATE
STATE: PA This vehicle was BAYTOWN,
Harris County, TX abandoned, and it was
picked up 4-15-24, at 4403 CRAIGMONT,
BAYTOWN, TX 77520. The charge as of
today is $778.91. REF#C404125

INVITATION TO BIDDERS: Topwater
Construction Services, LLC as Construction Manager at Risk for Deer Park ISD
will receive bids or proposals from qualified firms for the Deer Park HS South
Campus Pool Repairs and Restoration
project. All interested bidders, including
MBE, WBE, SBE, and HUB, should contact
Topwater Construction at the following
number, 281-347-4010, or email Roger
Graham at roger@topwatercsllc.com, for
all project related information and documents. Bids or Proposals are to be submitted to Topwater Construction no later
than 1:00PM on Monday, June 3, 2024.
Email proposals to roger@topwatercsllc.c
om or fax to 281-347-4006.

There will be a mandatory pre-bid meeting on: Friday, May 24, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. in the Community Development Conference
Room, 1149 Ellsworth Dr., Suite 545, 5th Floor, Pasadena, Texas 77506.
THIS PROJECT IS FINANCIALLY ASSISTED WITH FEDERAL FUNDS MADE AVAILABLE UNDER THE HOME INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIPS (HOME) PROGRAM (24 CFR PART 92) THROUGH THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT (HUD).
PERTINENT LEGAL REQUIREMENTS ARE INCLUDED IN THE BID PACKAGE. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.
IN ADDITION, IF THE CONTRACT AMOUNT EXCEEDS $200,000.00, THE WORK PERFORMED UNDER THIS CONTRACT WILL BE
SUBJECT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF SECTION 3 OF THE HUD ACT OF 1968, AS AMENDED, 12 U.S.C. 1701U (SECTION 3). THE
PURPOSE OF SECTION 3 IS TO ENSURE THAT EMPLOYMENT AND OTHER ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES GENERATED BY HUD ASSISTANCE OR HUD-ASSISTED PROJECTS COVERED BY SECTION 3, SHALL, TO THE GREATEST EXTENT FEASIBLE, BE DIRECTED
TO LOW- AND VERY LOW-INCOME PERSONS, PARTICULARLY THOSE WHO ARE RECIPIENTS OF HUD ASSISTANCE FOR HOUSING.

BRAZORIA COUNTY MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT NO. 63A
NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF
RULES AND REGULATIONS GOVERNING
SEWER HOUSE LINES AND SEWER CONNECTIONS
Notice is hereby given that the Board of Directors of the captioned District, at a
meeting held on May 11, 2023, adopted rules and regulations governing sewer house
lines and sewer connections.
These rules and regulations were adopted for the purpose of preventing
overloading of wastewater treatment plants, preventing increased plumbing and
wastewater treatment costs, and preventing line failures and service disruptions.
The rules and regulations establish standards for service lines, connection of building sewer outlet to service lines, fittings and cleanouts, requirements for connection
permit, including requirements for backfilling and repairs to damaged facilities, and
type of flow and waste that is to be excluded.
Failure to adhere to said rules and regulations can result in a fine of up to $10,000
per violation, with each day a violation continues being considered a separate
violation.
A full copy of the rules and regulations is on file at 1300 Post Oak Boulevard, Suite
2400, Houston, Texas 77056, and will be on file in the office of the District Operator.
The rules will be in full force and effect from and after five (5) days following the
publication of this notice.
BRAZORIA COUNTY MUNICIPAL
UTILITY DISTRICT NO. 63A
/s/ MATTHEW J. WELLS
By:_____________________________
President, Board of Directors
(SEAL)

BRAZORIA COUNTY MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT NO. 65
NOTICE OF ADOPTION OF
RULES AND REGULATIONS GOVERNING
SEWER HOUSE LINES AND SEWER CONNECTIONS
Notice is hereby given that the Board of Directors of the captioned District, at a
meeting held on May 12, 2023, adopted rules and regulations governing sewer house
lines and sewer connections.
These rules and regulations were adopted for the purpose of preventing
overloading of wastewater treatment plants, preventing increased plumbing and
wastewater treatment costs, and preventing line failures and service disruptions.
The rules and regulations establish standards for service lines, connection of building sewer outlet to service lines, fittings and cleanouts, requirements for connection
permit, including requirements for backfilling and repairs to damaged facilities, and
type of flow and waste that is to be excluded.
Failure to adhere to said rules and regulations can result in a fine of up to $10,000
per violation, with each day a violation continues being considered a separate
violation.
A full copy of the rules and regulations is on file at 1300 Post Oak Boulevard, Suite
2400, Houston, Texas 77056, and will be on file in the office of the District Operator.
The rules will be in full force and effect from and after five (5) days following the
publication of this notice.
BRAZORIA COUNTY MUNICIPAL
UTILITY DISTRICT NO. 65
/s/ ALBERT T. TOMCHESSON
By:_____________________________
President, Board of Directors
(SEAL)

ORDINANCE No. 2024-085
An Ordinance to repeal and revoke Ordinance Nos. 2023-096 and 2023-098, Amendment to the Code of Ordinances of the City of Pasadena, Texas at Chapter 31, Standard Sign Code, section 31-19 Electronic off-premises signs.
SECTION 2. That, to the extent necessary, the City Council of the City of Pasadena
hereby authorizes and approves repealing and revoking Ordinance Nos. 2023-096 and
2023-098.
PASSED ON SECOND AND FINAL READING by the City Council of the City of Pasadena, Texas, in regular meeting in the City Hall this the 7th day of May, A.D., 2024.
APPROVED this the 7th day of May, A.D., 2024.
_______________________________
JEFF WAGNER, MAYOR
OF THE CITY OF PASADENA, TEXAS
ATTEST: APPROVED:
________________________
AMANDA F. MUELLER
CITY SECRETARY
CITY OF PASADENA, TEXAS

________________________
JAY W. DALE
CITY ATTORNEY
CITY OF PASADENA, TEXAS

NOTICE OF RECEIPT OF APPLICATION AND INTENT TO OBTAIN
AIR PERMIT (NORI) RENEWAL
PERMIT NUMBER 22059
APPLICATION. The Lubrizol Corporation, has applied to the Texas Commission on
Environmental Quality (TCEQ) for renewal of Air Quality Permit Number 22059, which
would authorize continued operation of Lubrizol Deer Park Plant 177 Unit located at 41
Tidal Road, Deer Park, Harris County, Texas 77536. AVISO DE IDIOMA ALTERNATIVO.
El aviso de idioma alternativo en espanol está disponible en https://www.tceq.texas.gov/
permitting/air/newsourcereview/airpermits-pendingpermit-apps. This link to an electronic
map of the site or facility’s general location is provided as a public courtesy and not part of
the application or notice. For exact location, refer to application. https://
gisweb.tceq.texas.gov/LocationMapper/?marker=-95.114595,29.716375&level=13. The
existing facility and/or related facilities are authorized to emit the following air contaminants:
carbon monoxide, hazardous air pollutants, hydrogen sulfide, nitrogen oxides, organic
compounds, particulate matter including particulate matter with diameters of 10 microns
or less and 2.5 microns or less, sulfur dioxide and sulfuric acid.
This application was submitted to the TCEQ on April 15, 2024. The application will be
available for viewing and copying at the TCEQ central office, TCEQ Houston regional
office, and the Deer Park Public Library, 3009 Center Street, Deer Park, Harris County,
Texas beginning the first day of publication of this notice. The facility’s compliance file, if
any exists, is available for public review in the Houston regional office of the TCEQ.
The executive director has determined the application is administratively complete and
will conduct a technical review of the application. In addition to the renewal, this permitting
action includes the incorporation of permits by rule, standard permits, and changes in
emission factors related to this permit. An amendment application that is not subject to
public notice or an opportunity for a contested case hearing is also being reviewed. The
reasons for any changes or incorporations, to the extent they are included in the renewed
permit, may include the enhancement of operational control at the plant or enforceability
of the permit. The TCEQ may act on this application without seeking further public
comment or providing an opportunity for a contested case hearing if certain criteria
are met.
PUBLIC COMMENT. You may submit public comments to the Office of the Chief
Clerk at the address below. The TCEQ will consider all public comments in developing
a final decision on the application and the executive director will prepare a response to
those comments. Issues such as property values, noise, traffic safety, and zoning are
outside of the TCEQ’s jurisdiction to address in the permit process.
OPPORTUNITY FOR A CONTESTED CASE HEARING. You may request a contested
case hearing if you are a person who may be affected by emissions of air
contaminants from the facility. If requesting a contested case hearing, you must
submit the following: (1) your name (or for a group or association, an official
representative), mailing address, daytime phone number; (2) applicant’s name and
permit number; (3) the statement “[I/we] request a contested case hearing;” (4) a
specific description of how you would be adversely affected by the application
and air emissions from the facility in a way not common to the general public; (5)
the location and distance of your property relative to the facility; (6) a description
of how you use the property which may be impacted by the facility; and (7) a list of
all disputed issues of fact that you submit during the comment period. If the request
is made by a group or association, one or more members who have standing to
request a hearing must be identified by name and physical address. The interests
the group or association seeks to protect must also be identified. You may also
submit your proposed adjustments to the application/permit which would satisfy
your concerns.
The deadline to submit a request for a contested case hearing is 15 days after
newspaper notice is published. If a request is timely filed, the deadline for
requesting a contested case hearing will be extended to 30 days after mailing of
the response to comments.
If any requests for a contested case hearing are timely filed, the Executive Director will
forward the application and any requests for a contested case hearing to the Commissioners
for their consideration at a scheduled Commission meeting. Unless the application is directly
referred to a contested case hearing, the executive director will mail the response to
comments along with notification of Commission meeting to everyone who submitted
comments or is on the mailing list for this application. The Commission may only grant a
request for a contested case hearing on issues the requestor submitted in their timely
comments that were not subsequently withdrawn. If a hearing is granted, the subject
of a hearing will be limited to disputed issues of fact or mixed questions of fact and
law relating to relevant and material air quality concerns submitted during the
comment period. Issues such as property values, noise, traffic safety, and zoning are
outside of the Commission’s jurisdiction to address in this proceeding.
MAILING LIST. In addition to submitting public comments, you may ask to be placed on a
mailing list for this application by sending a request to the Office of the Chief Clerk at the
address below. Those on the mailing list will receive copies of future public notices (if any)
mailed by the Office of the Chief Clerk for this application.
AGENCY CONTACTS AND INFORMATION. Public comments and requests must be
submitted either electronically at www14.tceq.texas.gov/epic/eComment/, or in writing to
the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Office of the Chief Clerk, MC-105, P.O.
Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711-3087. Please be aware that any contact information you
provide, including your name, phone number, email address and physical address will
become part of the agency’s public record. For more information about this permit
application or the permitting process, please call the Public Education Program toll free at
1-800-687-4040. Si desea información en Español, puede llamar al 1-800-687-4040.
Further information may also be obtained from The Lubrizol Corporation, P.O. Box 158,
Deer Park, Texas 77536-0158 or by calling Ms. Nyx Black, Environmental Systems and
Air Permitting Manager at (832) 260-7525.
Notice Issuance Date: May 1, 2024

Sell it in the
It’s As Easy As 1 - 2 - 3!
1. Collect your items
2. Call

281-378-1000

3. Sit back and watch the
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www.southeasttexas.com

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A7

PASADENA CITIZEN

Buc-ee’s touted for pay EVs make
Gas station chains starting salary ranks fifth among U.S. retailers
By Richard Webner
CON T R IB U T OR

Buc-ee’s comes in first
place worldwide for the
size of its convenience
stores and length of its car
washes. It also ranks high
for employee salaries, according to a recent study.
The Texas-based gas
station chain ranks fifth
among U.S. retailers for
entry-level salaries with
an average starting wage
of $18.18 an hour, according to the study by Business Insider, which is
based on data provided by
the workplace review site
Glassdoor.
The outdoor apparel
company Patagonia came
in first with an average

wage of $21.88, followed by
recreational equipment
retailer REI with $18.88.
Costco and IKEA came in
third and fourth, with
wages of $18.57 and $18.50,
respectively.
The yoga apparel company Lululemon ranked
sixth with an average
wage of $18, according to
the study.
At a starting wage of
$18.18, a full-time worker
at Buc-ee’s would earn
gross pay of about $37,800.
That’s well below the median annual salary in Texas, which was was $68,744
in 2023, according to data
from the Bureau of Labor
Statistics.
In signs posted at its
stores, Buc-ee’s has adver-

tised starting wages of $16
an hour for cashiers, grocery stockers and other
entry-level employees; $19
for food service and car
wash workers; and between $23 and $31 for department managers.
And in recent years,
Buc-ee’s has often attracted attention for its
high wages compared
with some other workplaces. General managers
at its convenience stores
can
make
between
$150,000 and $225,000, for
example.
Retail wages have generally been increasing in
recent years as they compete to attract employees
in a tight labor market.
Last year, for example,

Walmart boosted its starting wages to $14 an hour
from $12 an hour. Now, according to ZipRecruiter,
the average wage for Walmart employees in Texas
at the end of April was
$22.37 an hour. That
topped the average wage
at Buc-ee’s, the hiring
website said, where the
average this month is
$21.05.
Lake
Jackson-based
Buc-ee’s was born and
grew in Texas but in recent years has expanded
into other states. It now
has 49 locations, including stores in Alabama,
Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Missouri,
South Carolina and Tennessee.

bestseller list
By Nusaiba Mizan
STAF F WRI TE R

Two all-electric vehicles,
both from Tesla, became
the first of their kind to
rank among the Houston
area’s bestselling models
last year, according to
Houston-based InfoNation
Inc.
Tesla’s Model Y SUV debuted on the list at No. 10
while the Model 3 made its
first appearance at No. 18.
More than 5,000 of the
Model Y and 4,000 Model
3s were sold last year. Tesla
cut the prices of both in
2023.
RoShelle Salinas, executive vice president of the
Houston Automobile Dealers Association, called the
rising popularity of electric
vehicles “exciting to see for
the first time for us.”
“They’ve got plenty of
variety to choose from,
which makes it easier to
commit to an electric vehicle — along with partners
like the energy providers
and groups like Evolve
Houston, and the different
apps and charging stations,” Salinas said.
InfoNation’s ranking uses state Department of Motor Vehicle records from
Harris and nine surrounding counties.
It will surprise no one
that the region’s top-selling
vehicles are pickups. The
Ford F-150 topped the list
in 2022 and 2023, while the
Chevrolet Silverado 1500
was second both years.
Pickups occupied four of
the top 10 spots.

HOUSTON AREA’S
BEST-SELLING
VEHICLES
1. Ford F-150 pickup (14,934
sales)
2. Chevrolet Silverado 1500
pickup (10,252)
3. Toyota RAV4 SUV
(9,002)
4. Toyota Camry (8,397)
5. Nissan Rogue SUV
(7,552)
6. Honda CR-V SUV (6,739)
7. Ram 1500 pickup (6,693)
8. Mazda CX-5 SUV (6,182)
9. Toyota Tundra pickup
(5,889)
10. Tesla Model Y SUV
(5,870)

Sales of both models,
however, declined in the
Houston area and nationally, InfoNation wrote in its
report. Nearly15,000 F-150s
and 10,000 Silverado 1500s
were sold in the region in
2023.
In Houston, two SUVs
jumped into the top 10: The
Honda CR-V rose to sixth
from No. 18 in 2022 while
the Mazda CX-5 jumped to
eighth from No. 22. SUVs
grabbed five of the top 10
spots.
“You get what you need
as a higher-level vehicle,
especially in the high waters that we can sometimes
see in Houston,” Salinas
said. “You can fit your family, and all of their sporting
equipment.”
Among sedans, the Toyota Camry was the top
choice at No. 4.

Elizabeth Conley/Staff photographer

Birds fly by as people watch the Houston skyline as the sunsets on Monday, March 6, 2023 in Houston.

Area Latinos play big economic role
Study finds demographic group
responsible for about two-thirds of
regional GDP growth
By Jhair Romero
STA FF WRIT E R

Houston-area Latinos
have played an outsized
role in growing the region’s economy in recent
years, according to a study
published this week.
From 2018 to 2021, Latinos were responsible for
68.3% of the metropolitan
area’s gross domestic
product growth despite
making up about 40% of
the population.
The study, funded by
Bank of America, found
the share of Latinos in the
Houston metro’s labor
force grew by 39% from
2010 to 2021, compared to
only 14% for non-Latinos
in the same period. Researchers from California
Lutheran University and
UCLA’s Center for the
Study of Latino Health
and Culture produced the
analysis.
“Those increased numbers have allowed the region to grow and prosper,
and jobs have been

brought to these areas and
businesses,” said longtime Houston Hispanic
Chamber of Commerce
President Laura Murillo.
She added that Houston
suburbs with growing Latino populations, such as
Katy and Spring, are some
of the biggest beneficiaries
of the growth.
Researchers cited the
Houston area’s young Latino population to explain
the economic boost in recent years. (About a third
of the city’s Hispanic population is under 18, and
43% is between 18 and 44,
according to the University of Houston’s Hobby
School of Public Affairs.)
The Cal Lutheran and
UCLA study said the metro’s coming-of-age Latinos are “overwhelmingly”
second- and third-generation Americans, and the
number of Latinos with a
bachelor’s degree grew at
a rate 2.9 times that of nonLatinos from 2010-21.
These shifts, though
more evident in the Hous-

ton area, have also played
out on larger scales despite the disproportionately high mortality rates
Latinos faced in the first
years of the COVID-19
pandemic.
The study said that in
2021, Latinos contributed
$581.2 billion to the Texas
economy, with the top sectors being finance and real
estate, government, professional and business
services, mining and
quarrying, and construction.
And across the country,
the Latino population’s total economic output in
2021 was $3.2 trillion. The
Latino GDP grew by 7.1%
that year, about 2% more
than that of non-Latinos.
Murillo said she hopes
studies like this will influence how companies,
from small businesses to
large corporations, market toward and hire Latino
consumers and workers.
The purchasing power of
U.S. Latinos reached $3.4
trillion in 2021, according
to an Arizona State University study published
last year.
“I can’t imagine there’s
a corporation that can afford to overlook 45% of the

demographic,” she said,
referring to Latinos’ large
share of Houston’s population. “And these are not
anecdotal stories. These
are hard facts. It’s data.”
A recent census data release revealed that the
Houston
metropolitan
area grew by almost
140,000 last year, with
Harris County accounting
for more than a third of
that growth.
Although the U.S. Census Bureau won’t release
more detailed demographic information —
such as population by age,
sex, race and Hispanic origin — until this summer,
the data shows much of
the county’s population
growth was fueled by international migration.
More than 41,100 immigrants moved to Harris
County last year, second
in the country only to
Florida’s
Miami-Dade
County. We won’t know
exactly how much Latinos
contributed to that population growth until June,
but Murillo sees a clear
trend.
“As go Hispanics, so
goes Houston,” Murillo
said. “And the rest of the
country for that matter.”

John Keeble/Getty Images

A Tesla Model 3 and Model Y at the Everything
Electric London 2024 show in March. The two cars
are the first all-electric vehicles to rank among the
best-sellers in the Houston region.

legals@chron.com

NOTICE TO BIDDERS
Sealed proposal, addressed to the CITY OF PASADENA, TEXAS, for the following:
SYCAMORE WATER PLANT IMPROVEMENTS
CIP#W071
For the CITY OF PASADENA, TEXAS, hereinafter called "OWNER" will be received
at the office of the CITY SECRETARY, 1149 Ellsworth Drive, 2nd Floor, Pasadena, Texas
until 4:00 p.m., the day of MONDAY, JUNE 17, 2024, and then will be publicly
opened and read aloud on TUESDAY, JUNE 18, 2024 AT 3:00 p.m. at 1149 Ellsworth
Drive, 2nd Floor Suite 236. Any bid received after the closing time will be returned
unopened.
Plans and specifications may be procured from the Public Works Department, via
email at Engineering@pasadenatx.gov . No bids may be withdrawn after the scheduled closing time for receiving of bids, for at least thirty (30) days.
The "OWNER" reserves the right to reject any and/or all bids and to waive formalities.
MANDATORY PRE-BID MEETINGS - BIDDERS ARE REQUIRED TO ATTEND
BOTH PRE-BID MEETINGS:
Tuesday, MAY 28, 2024 at 10:00 a.m.
Thursday, MAY 30, 2024 at 10:00 a.m.
Conference Room, 1149 Ellsworth Drive, Fifth Floor,
Pasadena, Texas 77506
This project is financially assisted with federal funds from the U.S. Department of
Treasury. Pertinent legal requirements are included in the bid package. Equal opportunity employer.
The work to be performed under this contract is subject to the requirements of section 3 of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968, as amended, 12 U.S.C.
1701u (section 3). The purpose of section 3 is to ensure that employment and other
economic opportunities covered by section 3, shall, to the greatest extent feasible, be
directed to low- and very low-income persons, particularly persons who are recipients
of HUD assistance for housing. Section 3 Residents, Minority Business Enterprises,
Small Business Enterprises, Women Business Enterprises, and labor surplus area
firms are encouraged to submit bids.
Attention is called to the fact that not less than, the federally determined prevailing
(Davis-Bacon and Related Acts) wage rate, as contained in the contract documents,
must be paid on this project. In addition, the successful bidder must ensure that employees and applicants for employment are not discriminated against because of
race, color, religion, sex, sexual identity, gender identity, or national origin.
All contractors/subcontractors whose System for Award Management (SAM.gov)
registration is not active or that are debarred, suspended or otherwise excluded from
or ineligible for participation on federal assistance programs may not undertake any
activity in part or in full under this project.
Publish: MAY 15, 2024 & MAY 22, 2024
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
Sealed proposals, in duplicate, marked “ Refuse Bags ” will be received at the office of
the City Secretary, City Hall, 710 E. San Augustine Street, Deer Park, Harris County,
Texas, until 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 29, 2024 at which time the bids are to be
opened and publicly read in the Council Chambers (per Council Chambers clock).
The City of Deer Park does not accept faxed bids.
The City of Deer Park is not responsible for sealed bids or proposals labeled incorrectly
or mislabeled.
Proposals are to be submitted on bidders’ own forms including name of bidder, contact
and telephone number. The City reserves the right to reject any and all bids or parts of
bids, to waive any and all technicalities, and to accept any bid or part of bid which it
deems advantageous to itself.
BY ORDER OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF DEER PARK, TEXAS
Dated this 8th day of May, 2024.
Angela M. Smith, TRMC, CMC
City Secretary
City of Deer Park, Texas

A8 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

A

PASADENA CITIZEN

PASADENA CITIZEN

WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024 A9

A10 WEDNESDAY, MAY 15, 2024

PASADENA CITIZEN

!

MONTHS

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