Montgomery County News

WEDNESDAY VOLUME XXII NUMBER 14***** Section 1 8 pages

April 1, 2020 Home of the ‘Lone Star Flag’ and

Brian Hampton

Montgomery County’s Only Locally Owned Newspaper

Established 1995

Montgomery County News

Montgomery, Texas 77356

50

Weekly

PRE-SRT POSTAGE PD #80 MONTG. TX

PBOX Magnolia, TX 77353

SJRA Wins Texas COVID-19 Update For Major

Weekly

Gas Prices (March 30, 2020) Texas gas prices have fallen 10.5 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $1.75/g today, according to GasBuddy's daily survey of 13,114 stations. Gas prices in Texas are 38.0 cents per gallon lower than a month ago and stand 71.0 cents per gallon lower than a year ago.

According to GasBuddy price reports, the cheapest station in Texas is priced at $1.25/g today while the most expensive is $2.54/g, a difference of $1.29/g. The lowest price in the state today is $1.25/g while the highest is $2.54/g, a difference of $1.29/g.

The national average price of gasoline has fallen 10.1 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $1.97/g today. The national average is down 45.5 cents per gallon from a month ago and stands 72.7 cents per gallon lower than a year ago.

Neighboring areas and their current gas prices: Midland Odessa$1.88/g, down 12.0 cents per gallon from last week's $2.00/g.

San Antonio- $1.66/g, down 9.2 cents per gallon from last week's $1.76/g.

Austin- $1.70/g, down 8.6 cents per gallon from last week's $1.79/g.

“Today, we enter the 38th straight day the national average gas price has fallen, and the first week of the national average being under $2/gal for the first time in over four years as motorists park their cars and shelter in place, leading to an unprecedented drop never before seen in U.S. gasoline demand, causing prices to sink like a rock," said Patrick DeHaan, head of petroleum analysis for GasBuddy. "With the nation continuing to be under siege from the coronavirus and millions staying parked at home, there's quite a bit more downside that's in the pipeline coming in the weeks ahead. We could easily see the national average fall 50 cents to a dollar per gallon, while pricey states like California will see the biggest drops to come, playing catch up to the drop that has seen twenty nine states average gas prices fall under $2.

Motorists should continue to be vigilant if they need to fill their tanks- bring hand sanitizer and potentially wipes, but also shop around as the gap between station widens to historic levels."

Montgomery County M O N T G O M E RY COUNTY – Montgomery County Public Health District, in conjunction with Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management, can confirm Montgomery County now has 81 positive cases of COVID-19, an increase of 16 from yesterday. We also have a few more recoveries! They are detailed here: https://mcphdtx.org/coronavirus-covid19/confirmed-cases/.

Montgomery County will no longer provide numbers of negative tests or those that are pending results. Since healthcare providers are only required to notify the Health District of positive results, moving forward, we want to ensure that the information we provide is accurate and truly reflective of Montgomery County. Thank you for understanding.

Mass testing is not

available in Montgomery County because of the scarcity of test kits. If you believe you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, the best steps to take at this time is stay home, hydrate well, and take fever-reducing medications like Tylenol.

Since there are no approved treatments for COVID-19, there is no need to be tested. If your symptoms become SEVERE, please call

ahead to your healthcare provider for further instructions. In the case of a life-threatening emergency, call 9-1-1. The decision for an individual to be tested depends on the healthcare provider and the availability of tests at that location and time.

At this time, it is important to follow CDC guidelines and governmental orders to STAY HOME in order to limit your contact with

others.

Montgomery County Public Health District’s mission is promoting a healthy, resilient community through health education, disease prevention, clinical services, and emergency preparedness.

For more information about the Montgomery County Public Health District please go to www.mcphd-tx.org.

Willis ISD And Montgomery County Precinct 1 Delivered 248 Meals

The Willis Independent School District (I.S.D.) in conjunction with Montgomery County Precinct I Constable's Office, has set out to feed those students who were unable to pick up lunches at designated campuses.

Willis I.S.D. Food Service compiled over 248 meals (breakfast and lunch) this Monday. The deliveries are being made by deputies contracted by the school district throughout the Willis Independent School District; including Walker and San Jacinto Counties.

This program is offered Monday thru Friday and helps families with limited food resources or do not have County Precinct 1 and Willis ISD Food Services Packing up transportation to the Montgomery meals to deliver to children. distribution centers. The program is scheduled to continue as long as the School’s resources last.

Constable Philip Cash and the Precinct 1 C o n s t a b l e ’s o ff i c e continues its work with our area Law Enforcement and Community partners during this Disaster Declaration. For updated Covid-19 information, the public is asked to go to the Montgomery County website (www.mctx.org).

As always Constable Cash says: “Be Sensible, Be Safe and follow the CDC Guidelines”.

115 Business Park · Willis, TX 77378 Community............2, 3, 7, 8 19380 Hwy. 105, Ste. Commentary............................4 507 · Montgomery, TX Devotional..........................5 77356 (936)539-7821 Willis ISD Food Services Prepared lunches.

Legals.................................6

Index Business Directory.............7

Ruling by Texas Supreme Court Conroe, Texas—The Texas Supreme Court today ruled in favor of the San Jacinto River Authority (SJRA) in its longstanding dispute with the City of Conroe over the validity of existing Groundwater Reduction Plan (GRP) contracts.

In its ruling, the Court unanimously agreed that SJRA was entitled to file a lawsuit in Travis County and use an expedited process to have its GRP contracts declared valid.

The Court also recognized current state law makes those contracts “‘incontestable’ and ‘valid, binding and enforceable according to [their] terms.’”

The Texas Supreme Court’s decision fasttracks the resolution of a dispute that began in 2016 when Conroe and Magnolia claimed the GRP contracts were not valid and refused to pay current wholesale water rates—a term of the GRP contract—to the detriment of the more than 80 participants in the GRP program. The cities’ decision left the other G R P participants—including area cities, municipal utility districts, and ultimately citizens—to make up the shortfall. The Supreme Court ruling also helps protect the underlying Texas public bonds that were used to finance the $500 million GRP Water Treatment Plant at Lake Conroe and pipeline system throughout Montgomery County.

“We are very pleased with the Supreme Court’s opinion,” said SJRA General Manager Jace Houston. “When 80-plus utilities join together to implement a regional project, it’s critical that everyone participates as agreed to in the contract. Every participant must fulfill its contract obligations, otherwise it puts at risk the entire legal apparatus protecting Texas public bonds for regional p r o j e c t s . Wi t h t h i s decision, the Supreme Court supports public entities who step up to the plate to provide regional large-scale water and infrastructure solutions.”

The case before the Texas Supreme Court came after Conroe and Magnolia appealed a previous decision by the Austin Third Court of Appeals that determined SJRA was entitled to an expedited action declaring the validity of its GRP contracts and rates.

To address Conroe’s refusal to pay the GRP water rates, SJRA and Conroe will have to head

See SJRA, page 2

www.montgomerycountynews.net

Page 2, Montgomery County News, Wednesday, April 1, 2020

United States Daughters Of 1812, Thomas Bay Chapter, Welcome National Officers During The Texas Society State Council U.S.D 1812: During the recent Texas Society United States Daughters of 1812, State Council, held in Temple Texas, Carol Anderson Hicks, Texas Society state President and leader in the Thomas Bay chapter, U.S.D. of 1812, welcomed very special guests Dianne Brown Cannestra (First Vice President National) and Felicia Carole Wilt (Corresponding Secretary National). The ladies are pictured during the Star Spangled Banner Banquet w h i c h w a s a great celebration during Mrs. Hicks term as State President, 2018-2020.

Mrs. Hicks was elected Honorary Texas State President and endorsed by the Texas Society to run for a National Office during the upcoming National Society United States D a u g h t e r s o f 1812 National convention to be held in April in Washington DC. During the evening, Mrs. Cannestra installed the new officers of the Texas L to R: Seated: Wendy Hicks (State chair, 1812 Ancestor Plaques and Chapter Librarian); Karen Kurth Hall (Honorary Texas Society State Society for the 2020- President and Thomas Bay Chapter President); Carol Hicks (Texas Society United States Daughters of 1812, State President); Dianne Cannestra 2022 term with Ella Wright (United States Daughters of 1812 First Vice President National); Felicia Wilt (United States Daughters of 1812 Corresponding Secretary National) G u a q u e t a a s Back Row: standing: Pat Spackey (Texas Society U.S.D. 1812 State Pubic Relations Chair and chapter Historian); Liddie Henderson; Carolyn State President.

Collmorgan; Lisa Harvey, (State Patriotic Education Committee); Gail Utley (chapter Registrar, State Patriotic Education committee chair and chapter JROTC Awards Chair.

SJRA from page 1

back to a trial court in Montgomery County on the rate issue. “According to the Supreme Court’s ruling, the portion of the case related to water rates cannot be considered under the expedited time table,” said Houston. “If

Conroe and Magnolia insist on not paying the rates owed under the GRP contract, that will have to go forward in a separate case, which will take longer and be more costly for all SJRA GRP Participants in Montgomery County.”

Background: In 2010, more than 80 public and private water utilities in Montgomery

County entered into a contract with SJRA to implement a joint, countywide Groundwater Reduction Plan in direct response to requirements set by Lone Star G r o u n d w a t e r Conservation District (LSGCD) to conserve groundwater supply. The contract specified that SJRA would deliver treated surface water from

Lake Conroe to supplement existing aquifer supplies and meet growing demands. The GRP contracts also included provisions for periodic rate increases, which would be reviewed and approved by a committee comprised of GRP Participants prior to adoption by SJRA’s board of directors.

The cities’ refusal to

pay the full amount due has forced other GRP Participants to make up over $3.5 million in unpaid rates.

One of the major river authorities in Texas, SJRA's mission is to develop, conserve, and protect the water resources of the San Jacinto River basin. Covering all or part of seven counties, the organization’s jurisdiction

includes the entire San Jacinto River watershed, excluding Harris County. For additional information on SJRA visit o u r w e b s i t e at www.sjra.net, like SJRA o n F a c e b o o k @SanJacintoRiverAuthori t y, f o l l o w u s o n Twitter @SJRA_1937, or find us on Instagram @sanjacintoriverauthority sjra.

Suggestions For Mindful Eating: Risotto Food for Thought Diana Anderson

DianaCAnderson@ gmail.com

Risotto is a northern Italian rice dish cooked with broth until it reaches a creamy consistency. The broth can be derived from meat, fish, or vegetables.

Many types of risotto contain butter, onion, white wine, and Parmesan cheese. It is one of the most common ways of cooking rice in Italy. It can be tricky

to cook, as you usually have to hover close while it cooks on a stovetop and you add broth little by little as it absorbs.

This effort has been done away with in today’s recipe in which the rice is cooked all at once in the broth in the oven and finished on the stove.

I made this last week and was really impressed with the versatility of the leftovers so lets take a look at how to make and use this classic rice dish.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups Arborio rice 5 cups simmering chicken stock, divided 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup dry white wine 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, diced 2 teaspoons kosher salt 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 cup frozen peas Directions Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Place the rice and 4 cups of the chicken stock in a Dutch oven, such as Le Creuset. Cover and bake for 45 minutes, until most of the liquid is absorbed and the rice is al dente.

Remove from the oven, add the remaining cup of chicken stock, the Parmesan, wine, butter, salt, and pepper, and stir vigorously for 2 to 3 minutes, until the rice is thick and creamy. Add the peas and stir until heated through. Serve hot This is crazy easy and

really delicious. If you are not familiar with Arborio rice it is Italian short-grain rice. It is named after the town of Arborio, in the Po Valley, which is situated in the main growing region of Doron. Arborio is also grown in Arkansas, California, and Missouri in the United States. When cooked, the rounded grains are firm, and creamy and chewy compared to other rices, due to their higher amylopectin starch content. It has a starchy taste and blends well with other flavors.

Rice is organized into three groups: long-, medium-, and short-grain, based on its length-towidth ratio when cooked.

Short-grain rice plumps to an almost spherical shape.

Long-grain rice resembles that of a long, drawn-out grain of wheat. And medium-grain falls somewhere in between.

While Arborio plumps as it cooks, making it appear shorter, it is actually classified as a mediumgrain variety.

I f y o u c a n ’t f i n d

Arborio chances are you won’t be able to find any of the lesser-known Italian substitutes but you may see Sushi rice. This shortgrain variety has both a high-starch content and a firm texture. To substitute sushi in a risotto, make sure you don't rinse it first (like you do for sushi), as keeping the starches on the grain will yield the best results. And while sushi rice won't quite give you the rich flavor of Arborio it does provide a hack option.

Just make sure not to overcook a sushi rice risotto, as you may end up with a sticky glop of a mess.

I cooked this as a side dish at dinner the first night then used the leftovers as a main dish two nights later.

I simply sautéed some onions and garlic in olive oil until soft and added some salt, pepper and frozen shrimp which I had run under cold water in a colander for a minute or two and sautéed that all together. I then added the risotto to the pan and cooked on low with a little

bit of water to soften the rice until it was all warm.

Perfection. If you don’t like or have shrimp consider using any leftover meat available.

Another idea is to take scoops of this leftover risotto and actually shape it into patties that hold their shape when pan-fried. The outside of the risotto cakes turns crispy and golden while the insides warm and soften. As an extra treat, slip a piece of cheese into the middle of the cake as you shape it, You can also use your leftovers as a stuffing for peppers, tomatoes or a giant Portobello mushroom that you will then bake.

I think having leftovers with some versatility is important in these semiquarantined times as we now have to scramble for three meals a day. I hope you are doing well during this time and that possibly planning and cooking can be a fun activity. Take a photo of your dishes and share it to inspire others to enjoy this pastime.

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Montgomery County News, Wednesday, April 1, 2020, Page 3

Comments According to Doc Alone But Not Lonely: The Amazing Benefits of Solitude!

Walden Happenings

By Doc Fennessy The opinions expressed in this editorial do not necessarily reflect those of MCN.

There is a great difference between ‘Being Alone’ and ‘Loneliness!’

The benefits of “Being Alone” were greatly emphasized during the 1970’s and 1980’s by the “mystical Maharishi” from the orient and his followers, as they swept throughout the nation recruiting millions of followers to h i m .

T R A N S C E N D E N TA L MEDITATION!!!!!!!!!! ” The Maharishi” had millions of followers all over the world at the time and terrific “testimonials” of the benefits of temporary isolation and relief of mental stress.

It went along with the current saying of, “Stop the world for a while and let me get off!!” To start with, there was a short oriental ceremony where you received a mystic “Mantra” word Tes and, not vocally or non-vocally, though repeatedly until you slipped off into a trance for 20-minutes and you automatically woke up refreshed.

It worked!

Where you sat alone in a quiet atmosphere twice a day for 20-minutes and you actually woke up in 20minutes mentally refreshed!! IT WORKS! I meditated for over 30years in some pretty weird places all over the world in my time. At this time of self-quarantine news writer Niki Harper does a superb job of explaining the difference between “Loneliness” and “SelfIsolation,” or placing yourself “alone!”

Nike Harper is a[D1] Staff Writer

for “Wake Up World,” and this article, “Alone But Not Lonely: The Amazing Benefits of Solitude!” was first published February 24th and republished in The Sunday Family Humour – March 8th, 2020. Harper’s article follows.

“SOLITUDE,” - what images does this word conjure up for you? Do you picture yourself in blissful isolation, enjoying downtime, peace and quiet, or do you picture yourself locked away somewhere remote, feeling lonely, bored and miserable? In today’s hyper-connected, high speed world, solitude can be difficult to find, even if you want to find it – and yet this state of aloneness can bring many benefits.

Craved by some, and feared by others, our relationship with solitude is somewhat mixed. We know that ‘solitary confinement’ is a disturbing kind of punishment, and we know that loneliness can severely impact mental health [1].

Yet there’s a lot of research which shows that solitude can be a very positive choice – providing that it is indeed a choice, and not something imposed against someone’s will [2] [3].

WHAT DO WE MEAN BY “SOLITUDE?” - To understand the benefits of solitude, it’s important to understand that solitude is not the same as ‘loneliness.’

By definition, loneliness is a state of wishing for company or greater social contact, whereas solitude is a deliberate act of withdrawing from company.

Loneliness can last for years, whereas solitude may last for only a few moments – half an hour or so of solitude here and there will still bring benefits.

“SOLITUDE does not necessarily mean being physically isolated. For sure, being miles from anywhere helps, but you

can experience solitude in your own home, at work and in your normal neighborhood. It’s a state of mind which is not linked to your physical environment.

To experience micro solitude, in your daily life, when you don’t have much time, simply stop interacting with other people for a short while. Turn off all of your devices and let it be known that you’re not to be interrupted. Don’t work, or read, or attempt to entertain yourself – just be. You may experience solitude while out for a run, if you’re not actively engaging with other people, or in a crowded station where you’re sitting with just your own thoughts. You can create moments of solitude anywhere and at any time you choose – although admittedly it’s easier to notice the benefits if you’re in a cabin in the woods rather than in a bustling coffee shop. However, in today’s hectic world, moments of solitude are something of a luxury, to be grabbed when and where you can.”

SIX (6) BENEFITS OF SOLITUDE. – “ {Hearing Your Own Thoughts!} “If you’re lucky enough to experience solitude somewhere very quiet, or if you’re good at tuning out extraneous noise, then you’ll start to notice more and more of your own thoughts. Many of us have an internal monologue as a constant companion in any case but few of us pay a great deal of attention to what it’s telling us. When you’re in solitude, you can hear your own thoughts much more clearly – and that means you can pick up on self-doubt, self-criticism and nagging insecurities.

Once you know these are an issue, you can take steps to address them.

E N H A N C E D INTUITION - When you

are in solitude, with just your own thoughts to occupy your mind, you’ll start to notice that your “intuition Is” strengthened. In our busy daily lives, we tend to gloss over intuitive feelings, or not even notice them at all. A hint of a feeling that something isn’t right or that someone isn’t quite who they seem is easily suppressed when you have to get the dinner cooked or turn in that report. In solitude, you will notice these intuitive gut feelings and learn to hear them – and to trust them.

BETTER DECISION MAKING - Regular solitude can help to provide clarity of mind. Extraneous details often cloud our judgement when we face a problem or a choice and it’s hard to hear or see clearly through the chaos. Periods of solitude strip away the unnecessary layers, allowing us to get to the heart of the matter. This, coupled with an increase in intuition, allows us to make more “confident decisions,” and to stop second guessing ourselves.

HUMILITY AND SELF-SUFFICIENCY When you’re in solitude – whether you’re on a week’s escape somewhere or

simply taking 15 minutes out of your day to sit quietly in your car – you’re allowing the world to turn without you. And, turn it does. Who knew? You’re not as indispensable as you thought you were. Regular periods of solitude increase your sense of humility as your ego learns that the world does not depend on your presence. Crucially, you also learn that you do not depend on anyone else either, which is a very empowering realization.

AN END TO H A R M F U L COMPARISONS - In our daily lives, we typically can’t help but compare ourselves to others – very often, unfavorably. So and so is younger, prettier, more artistic, more intelligent, richer, better liked, more loved – the list goes on. And on. During periods of solitude, even if they come in very short bursts, it’s just you. You’re not interacting with anyone else. There is nobody to compare yourself to. Sure, at first, your thoughts may still be dominated by this kind if negativity, but that will lessen as you practice solitude more and more. It’s a process which truly facilitates you being comfortable and confident

“in your own skin”.

DISCOVERY OF THE DIVINE - Periods of quiet solitude allow you to hear your own thoughts, as first mentioned above. However, they also allow you to hear something else too, something much more important – when your mental clutter has cleared, you’ll start to sense something of the “divine i n t e r c o n n e c t e dness” around us. Moments of solitude are a great opportunity to practice mindfulness and meditation, which in turn can reveal your link to the divine. Spending solitude outdoors, close to nature, can also lead to divine insights, particularly if you spend time simply paying close attention to the nature all around you.

Remember, to start experiencing the benefits of solitude, you don’t need to decamp to a hermit’s cave, and you don’t need to commit huge chunks of y o u r d a y. M a k i n g a conscious decision to be alone – or mentally alone if not physically alone – is a glorious thing, and as little as 15 minutes a day is a great way to start.

Aggie Engineers Create Step-by-Step Method of Making Protective Medical Masks Emergency Room physicians asked Texas A&M’s John Criscione for help as supplies diminish COLLEGE STATION, Texas — With a touch of inspiration from MacGyver, Aggies have developed a way to make medical protective gear from readily available materials.

A group of professors and graduate students from the College of Engineering at Texas A&M University are researching methods to construct desperately needed personal protection masks for medical personnel who have seen a depletion of resources as the number of COVID-19 cases increases.

John Criscione, a Texas A&M professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering and a Johns Hopkins-educated medical doctor, said he and his colleagues are investigating a low-technology solution to a growing problem. Dr. Criscione and his team have figured out a way to build masks with materials such as airconditioning filters, sheer curtains, staples and stretchable cords.

John Sharp, chancellor o f T h e Te x a s A & M University System, said the Texas A&M community has a long tradition of helping society when it needs assistance the most.

“This is exactly the kind of Aggie ingenuity that has been evident on our campus for generations,” he said.

See a video about the engineering professors and

their efforts at https://www.youtube.com/ user/tamusystem?sub_con firmation=1.

Also, see a video with a step-by-step guide concerning construction of protective masks at https://enmed.tamu.edu/DI Ymasks/ Dr. Criscione said his team will be quantitatively testing do-it-yourself masks in the coming days.

The team will continue its efforts to create a mask that has features similar to the N95 respirator, which is capable of filtering 95 percent of airborne particles, including viruses.

(Surgical masks cannot block as much.)

“If the gap between supply and demand continues to worsen, and particularly our emergency medical colleagues are forced to use DIY masks, we want them to have technical guidance as they make their choices of materials and construction,” Dr. Criscione said.

“We see this as our selfless

service responsibility to the general public, as Aggies, and we are here to help.”

The project began after emergency room physicians asked Dr. Criscione to explore potential solutions, in case masks become unavailable. The result is a work-product that would be approved by MacGyver, the innovative namesake of a n i c o n i c l a t e 1 9 8 0 s /e a r ly 1 9 9 0 s T V show.

The prototype never was intended to join the supplychain of approved personal protective equipment, or PPE, Dr. Criscione said.

Rather, he said that the Aggie masks should be reserved for worse-case scenarios where overwhelmed hospitals “had no protective masks to use for life-saving procedures.”

Another group at Texas A & M ’s C o l l e g e o f Engineering is working on options to produce similar personal protective masks with 3D printers.

About The Texas A&M University System

T h e Te x a s A & M University System is one of the largest systems of higher education in the nation with a budget of $6.3 billion. The System is a statewide network of 11 universities; a comprehensive health science center; eight state agencies,

i n c l u d i n g t h e Te x a s Division of Emergency Management; and the RELLIS Campus. The Te x a s A & M S y s t e m educates more than 151,000 students and makes more than 22 million additional educational contacts through

service and outreach p r o g r a m s e a c h y e a r.

System-wide, research and development expenditures exceeded $1 billion in FY 2019 and helped drive the state’s economy.

Page 4, Wednesday, April 1, 2020, Montgomery County News

www.montgomerycountynews.net

My Five Cents...

Texas State Senator

Robert Nichols As we all settle into a new normal for the time being, it can often be unsettling. I know that Texas and Texans are strong, and we will continue on and come back as strong as we were before. I encourage everyone to do your part in helping to slow the spread of this virus and help those around you who may be struggling. Together, we will overcome this challenge as we have many times before.

If you need assistance please don't hesitate to contact my office at (512) 463-0103, or by emailing Robert.Nichols@senate.te xas.gov.

Here are five resources to help you during this time: 1. Where to Find Accurate COVID-19 Information During this time, you may be hearing or seeing different reports on the number of cases in your area or in the state. To get up to date, accurate information you can visit the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) website which includes daily updated numbers they have received from local public health authorities. Their dashboard provides specific information from around the state. Please visit https://www.dshs.texas.go v/news/updates.shtm#coro navirus.

T h e 2 - 1 - 1 Te x a s Hotline, which is available 24/7, is also a good place to

Weather for the Lake Conroe area Wednesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 75. Light east wind becoming southeast 5 to 10 mph in the morning.

Wednesday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 58. Southeast wind around 5 mph.

Thursday A slight chance of showers, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 76. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph.

Chance of precipitation is 40%.

Thursday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 65.

Friday Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 1pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 80. Chance of precipitation is 70%.

Friday Night Showers and thunderstorms likely. Cloudy, with a low around 65. Chance of precipitation is 70%.

Saturday A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Mostly cloudy, with a high near 78.

Saturday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 66.

Sunday A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Mostly cloudy, with a high near 82.

Sunday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Mostly cloudy, with a low around 69.

Monday A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms.

Mostly cloudy, with a high near 84.

Montgomery County News Phone (936) 449-6397 Fax (936)597-6395 E-mail: news@montgomerycountynews.net web; http://www.montgomerycountynews.net Publisher: M. Ryan West Editor: Monte West Account Executive: Camilla Blum, M. Ryan West Photography: Monte West, Wade Stultz, Bobby Strader, Lance Bridges R e p o r t e r s / C o n t r i b u t i n g Wr i t e r s : D o c Fennessey, Carol Fennessey, Gail Box, Margie Barlow, Kim West, Sharon Faison, Dortha Ruthstrom, Megan West Stultz, Narcissa Martin Boulware, Gary Curran, Students and Staff of MISD, and friends of Montgomery County News. ©Copyrights, Montgomery County News, Montgomery, Texas 2017-2018 Montgomery County News is a weekly, locally owned and operated newspaper and is published by Montgomery County News at 14375 Liberty St. PO Box 1, Montgomery, TX 77356.

Telephone number 936-449-6397, Fax 936-597-6395.

MCN welcomes any comments or suggestions, submitted in writing to the paper. Any editorials or opinions used in this publication are those of the writers and in no way reflect the views and opinions of the Montgomery County News.

MCN is currently circulating 6,220 copies throughout the Montgomery County area by retail, subscriptions and occasional random distribution. Subscription rates are $40 per year in county and $45 outside Montgomery County. Bulk Rate Permit is held by the Postmaster at Montgomery, TX 77356, Montgomery County News is an official publication of the County of Montgomery, Texas.

MCN expects honest advertising standards from its patrons, and does not in any way take responsibility for false or misleading advertisements. MCN reserves to right to refuse advertisement.

All contents of Montgomery County News are reserved, and we prohibit reproduction of the items without permission.

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POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to Montgomery County News, PO Box 1 Montgomery, TX 77356

Editor’s Express Your letters are appreciated and will be published as space will allow. We ask that you furnish facts that pertain to your letter, which you sign with your signature, address and daytime phone number to verify the author. We hold the right to edit or not publish letters that may not conform to the mission of this paper.

Mail, Fax or E-mail: Montgomery County News, 14375 Liberty St, P.O. Box 1, Montgomery, Texas 77356-0001, Fax 936-597-6395, E-mail: news@montgomerycountynews.net Web page: http://www.montgomerycountynews.net

access information on COVID-19, and local community resources on health care, testing, utilities, food, housing and more.

2. Small Business Assistance The COVID-19 pandemic is affecting small businesses, even where there are no local cases of the virus. These businesses are the lifeblood of local economies as they provide essential goods and services, and employment. It is important that we continue to support them during these hard times.

The Small Business Administration has announced the availability of the Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program.

This program provides small businesses with working capital loans up to $2 million, to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they may be experiencing. Businesses interested in pursuing the Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program should visit www.disasterloan.sba.gov

/ela for more information.

3. DPS and DMV Office Closures Governor Abbott has directed all Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) offices to close to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19. DPS has extended the expiration of Texas identification cards, drivers licenses, commercial drivers licenses, and election identification certificates. This suspension will be in effect until 60 days after DPS provides public notice that normal Drivers License operations have resumed.

The Texas Department o f M o t o r Ve h i c l e s (TxDMV) have also closed their offices. A temporary waiver has been put in place for initial vehicle registration, renewal of registration, vehicle titling, and renewal of a permanent disabled parking placard. This also applies for those with an expired 30 day temporary permit.

This waiver, which is for all Texas vehicle owners, will stay in effect until 60 days after TxDMV notifies

the public that normal vehicle registration, vehicle titling and related services have resumed.

4. Texas Education Agency Meal Finder App Many Texas children rely on their school district meal programs to ensure they receive a meal everyday. Due to the closures of school districts, this has created a challenge for many families. To assist families and students while school districts are closed, t h e Te x a s E d u c a t i o n Agency (TEA) have l a u n c h e d t h e " Te x a s Students MealFinder Map", which is available on TEA's website. This map, which will be updated continuously, will include the address of each facility, and the days and times when meals will be served.

To be included on this map, school districts must file with the Texas Department of Agriculture and that information will then be sent to TEA. 5.

Texas Workforce Commission Many businesses have been forced to lay off their

employees due to the spread of this virus, which has lead to an increase of Texans filing for unemployment. The Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) has created pages on their website https://twc.texas.gov to provide up to date information for employers, job seekers, as well as information on child care.

Due to the high volume of claims that are coming into TWC, they are working to be able to expand their capacity to accept claims through both their website and vie telecenters. Governor Abbott has waived the waiting week period for unemployment insurance claims which will allow claimants to get paid for their first week of unemployment benefits. Previously applicants had to wait to receive their first week payment till after the first week. In addition to this, TWC has waived work search requirements for claimants.

Governor Abbott Announces Increased PPE Supply, Issues Executive Order To Strengthen Reporting Capabilities AUSTIN - Governor Greg Abbott today held a press conference to provide an update on incoming supplies of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and other resources to aid Texas’ response to COVID-19. The Governor announced that the newly established Supply Chain Strike Force has already secured more than $83 million of purchase orders for essential supplies.

Additionally, the Governor announced that the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) will begin receiving 100,000 masks per day by the end of this week and the Supply Chain Strike Force will begin receiving an additional 100,000 masks per day by the end of next week—meaning the State of Texas will soon be receiving more than one million masks per week.

The Governor also announced the launch of an online portal run by the Supply Chain Strike Force to streamline the process and validation of leads for more supplies. The portal, accessible through www.texas.gov, will serve as an intake process for those wanting to provide

valid leads on PPE and donations. The portal also serves as a portal for those wanting to donate supplies, services, or your time—including medical professionals and nurses looking to volunteer.

“The State of Texas is rapidly accelerating the purchasing and delivery of essential personal protection equipment and other supplies to aid in our COVID-19 response,” said Governor Abbott. “The Supply Chain Strike Force is working in concert with the Texas Division of Emergency Management to secure these vital resources and to swiftly distribute them to medical professionals, hospitals, and first responders in communities throughout the state. We thank all those who have already offered donations to meet our supply needs. I urge all Texans who would like to donate essential supplies and all medical professionals who are willing to volunteer their time and expertise to visit www.texas.gov to find out how they can help.”

The Governor also issued an Executive Order to better track both hospital bed capacity and COVID-

(PHOTO: Office Of The Governor, 3/24/20) 19 test results across the state. The Executive Order requires all hospitals, excluding psychiatric hospitals, to submit daily reports on hospital bed capacity to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) who will then share this information with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The order also requires every public or private entity utilizing FDA-approved COVID-19 tests to submit daily reports of all results to the local health department and DSHS who will then share this information with the CDC. The Governor was joined at the press conference by:

* John Hellerstedt, MD, Commissioner, DSHS * Nim Kidd, Chief, TDEM * Luis Rios, MD, President, Texas Society of Plastic Surgeons * Raymond Risk, CEO and President, Texas Construction Association * David Fleeger, MD, President, Texas Medical Association * Mahlon Kerr, MD, President, Austin Society of Plastic Surgeons * Kenneth Shaffer, MD, President/Governor, Texas Chapter of American College of Cardiology * David Yu, DDS, MS, Member, Texas Society of Periodontists

Governor Abbott Issues Executive Order Mandating 14-Day Quarantine For Travelers Arriving From New York Tri-State Area, New Orleans AUSTIN - Governor Greg Abbott today held a press conference at the State Capitol where he issued an Executive Order mandating a selfquarantine of 14 days for individuals traveling to Texas as their final destination through an airport from the Tri-State Area of New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut as well as the city of New Orleans, Louisiana. This Executive Order is consistent with the guidance of Dr. Anthony Fauci and Dr. Deborah Birx of the White House Coronavirus Task Force and will be enforced by the Texas Department of P u b l i c S a f e t y (DPS). During this period, a quarantined person shall not allow visitors into or

out of the designated quarantine location, other than a physician or healthcare provider, and cannot visit any public spaces. These mandatory self-quarantines will last a period of 14 days or for the duration of a person’s p r e s e n c e i n Te x a s , whichever is shorter.

"The State of Texas continues to act upon the recommendations of top state, federal, and local health experts as we implement a comprehensive strategy to limit the spread of COVID-19,” said Governor Abbott.

"The New York Tri-State Area and the City of New Orleans have become major centers of this pandemic, and it is vital that we take necessary precautions to prevent

additional exposure that could originate from people traveling from these areas to Texas. This Executive Order is another important measure we are taking to protect the health and safety of Texans, and we will continue to take any action necessary to mitigate exposure to COVID-19 in our state."

Those entering Texas as their final destination from the designated areas will use a form from DPS to designate their quarantine location. DPS special agents will conduct unannounced visits to designated quarantine locations to verify compliance. Failure to comply with this order is considered a criminal offense that is punishable by up to a $1,000 fine, up

to 180 days in jail, or both.

This order to selfquarantine shall not apply to people traveling in connection with military service, emergency response, health response, or critical-infrastructure functions, as may be determined by the Texas Division of Emergency M a n a g e m e n t (TDEM). This Executive Order will remain in effect and in full force until modified, amended, rescinded, or superseded by the Governor.

The Governor was joined for the press conference by Texas Department of State Health Services Commissioner John Hellerstedt, MD, and TDEM Chief Nim Kidd.

Montgomery County News, Wednesday, April 1, 2020, Page 5

www.montgomerycountynews.net

Devotional

In Crises And In Our Country - Hope Reigns Supreme Spreading the Word

By Gail J. Box Gailbox@consolidated.net

To hope for something means we expect or desire that things not yet seen, come about – sooner or later. There is another connecting word along with hope. It’s prayer. I would say this: “The backbone of hope is prayer.”

Another companion

word would be: “desire.”

Paul, in writing to the church in Rome, says this: “Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into His grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God…and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through

the Holy Spirit who was given to us. For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly.

Romans 5:1-2, 5-6.

Our country was founded by Pilgrims in crisis. They wanted to worship and grow with freedom from being persecuted for having a deep belief in God’s word.

They had great hope and determination and were led

by God. They withstood great loss of lives, and many other deadly trials as

they followed their desire for a free life in a new country. There is no doubt that God led them here.

Their hopes and dreams have been realized in us today. And like them, although things may look bad in the world, we don’t despair. We pray and seek His face in continuing our hope which reigns supreme. Paul told the Corinthian church this: “For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then I will

know fully just as I also have been fully known.

But now faith, hope, love, abide these three; but the greatest of these is love.” First Corinthians 13: 12-13.

It’s “hope” that is sandwiched in between faith and love; with love (as Jesus) being the Rock that ties all three together.

We could make an analogy of being like a geode. We’re rough-looking on the outside, but in the middle where our spirit dwells, there are the sparkling

jewels of love, hope, and faith as the scripture lists.

I close with God’s beautiful prayer given to Moses to pass on. It was for Israel and for us who are grafted into the vine: “ The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make His face shine on you, and be gracious to you; The Lord lift up His countenance on you and give you peace.”

Numbers 6:24-26.

Obituary Distinguished Teacher Passes Away Jeanette F. Ridgway, Ph.D. 1939 – 2020

1971, Niagara Falls, Photo by Sam Ridgway

Area Churches This Devotional and Directory page is made possible by these businesses ASSEMBLY OF GOD Cornerstone Christian Assembly of God of Conroe, located at 100 Mosswood Dr., Conroe, Texas in front of River Plantation. 936-2731755 New Life Assembly of God, Rabon Chapel Road, Montgomery, 936588-3399 BAPTIST Church of the Good Soldier (Baptist Affiliation), 1501 North Frazier (McKenzie's BBQ), Conroe, Texas, Phone: 936-494-5775, www.churchofthegoodso ldier.org.

Worship: Sunday at 10:30am, Sunday School: 9:30 am Heritage Baptist Church19087 Lake Mt. Pleasant Rd, Montgomery 77356 Phone: Pastor Bear 936 448-4027 Gary Chapel Baptist Church PO Box 125, Montgomery, Texas 77356, 5525 Spring Branch Road, Montgomery. 713478-1256, Sunday Bible Class 10:00 am, Worship Service at 11:00 am.

Faith Baptist Church Meets at 464 McCaleb Rd. Sunday Morning Bible Study 9:30 a.m. Worship Service 10:45 a.m.

Sunday Evening Worship 6:00 p.m.

St. Beulah Baptist Church, located in Dobbin, P.O. Box 112, Montgomery, 77356 Benui Baptist Church, Scott Ridge and FM 1097, Montgomery Antioch Baptist, Dobbin, 936-5975560 China Grove Baptist Church, Willis, 936-7674744 Dacus Baptist, Dacus, 407-735-6403, dacusbaptist@consolidat e d . n e t www.dacusbaptist.org First Baptist Church,

Hwy 105 W., Montgomery, 936-597-4230 Honea Baptist Church, FM 2854, Montgomery, 936-588-1260 Jones Chapel Baptist, FM 2854, 936-7562505 Mt. Calvary Baptist, Old Hwy 105, 936588-2330 Mt. Sinai Baptist, Bethel Road, Montgomery, 936-597-4668 Union Grove Baptist About 11 mi N of Montgomery on FM 149 Service 10:50, Sunday 9:45 CATHOLIC Sacred Heart Catholic, 1 0 9 N . F r a z i e r, Conroe, 936-756-8186 St. Mary’s Catholic, F M 1 7 7 4 , Plantersville, 936-894-2223 7:45 Service St. Joseph’s Catholic, CR 213, Stoneham, 936-894-2223 JEWISH Congregation Beth S h a l o m , 5 1 2 5 Shadowbend Place, The Woodlands, 281-362-1100 LUTHERAN Grace Lutheran (ELCA), Highway 105 W., Lake Conroe, 936-588-1944 Living Savior Lutheran Church-LCMS 309 Pond St. Montgomery 77356 Church phone: 936-597-8013 Web : www.livingsaviortexas.o rg Pastor David R. Bailes.

METHODIST Montgomery United Methodist Church 22548 Highway 105 West M o n t g o m e r y, T X 77356 Phone: 936-597-6162 S u n d a y Wo r s h i p : 8:30 a.m., 9:45 am., 11:00 a.m. Praise & Worship Sunday School: 9:45

Jeanette F. Ridgway, Ph.D. 1939 – 2020 Born in the wooded area south of Richards, Texas, Jeanette excelled in school and became an active member of Richards Baptist Church.

She graduated from Richards High School in 1956 and matriculated to Baylor University. She sang in the Baylor Religious hour chair that performed at many venues in Texas and the south. Jeanette earned a BA at the end of 1959.

Answering an add, she took the train to Pearsall, Texas in the dusty ranch land 60 miles south of San Antonio. The job had opened up because a teacher had been fired.

The fired teacher had refused to teach a black student who had been moved into the classroom.

Jeanette loved teaching English in that classroom with its Hispanic, African American and Anglo students. She taught only one semester in Pearsall.

There she met her husband, Sam Ridgway who was to graduate in veterinary medicine from Texas A&M University in a few months. Jeanette and Sam married that summer of 1960 just before Sam was ordered for Air Force service in California.

During 10 years in Camarillo, California, where Sam worked at Oxnard AFB, and at Point

Mugu Navy Base, Jeanette taught in public schools.

She served as pianist and was instrumental in founding the first Southern Baptist Church in Camarillo which is now the First Baptist Church of Camarillo on Temple Avenue.

Jeanette was a gifted a hostess who bathed her guests in warmth and joy. In 1970, Sam received a fellowship at Cambridge University in England.

The couple moved there and Jeanette gloried in all the campus life of the English University. They transferred to San Diego, CA in 1972 where Jeanette earned her MA in literature from San Diego State University.

She then

commuted to earn a Ph.D. from the University of California at Los Angeles.

Later she taught graduate and undergraduate literature at San Diego State University. Always a scholar, Jeanette loved teaching at all levels. She was married to Dr. Sam H. Ridgway for almost 60 years.

Jeanette is survived by her husband of San Diego, California, her brothers Dan Fuller and Bevin Fuller of Richards, Texas, her sisters Mary Ann Rogers of Wooster, Ohio, D o n n a Tr i v i l i n o o f Kingwood, Texas and Cheryl Lane of College Station, Texas.

a.m.

Www.mumctex.org Richards United Methodist Church 6639 FM 1696 Richards Worship Service 11 AM Sunday School 10AM Porter Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church, 1308 S. Hwy 1486, Dobbin, 936-597-5331 or 936449-5983 Living Way Church, 2080 Longmire Rd, Conroe 936-441-8875 Hope Tabernacle Pastor David Whitaker Meets at 18961 Freeport Dr Montgomery 936.582.7722 Thursday 7:30pm Sunday School at 10:00am Sunday Worship at 6:00pm Community And Interdenominational Lone Star Cowboy Church 21627 Eva St. M o n t g o m e r y, T X 77356 (936) 597-5742 Pastors Randy & Darla Weaver Service Times: Sundays 8:30; 10:00 and 11:30am Mondays 7:00pm Livestream: Watch us live Sundays & Mondays @ live.lonestar.tv or go to the Lone Star Cowboy Church Facebook page and click on the Livestream link.

W e b s i t e : www.lonestar.tv Abundant Life Ministries Corner of FM 149 & FM 1097 W. Montgomery TX 77356 Prayer /Sunday School 9:30 am Sunday Service 11:30 am Wednesday Pray/Bible Study 6:30 pm RiverStone Community Church 19380 Hwy 105 Ste. 500 M o n t g o m e r y, T X 77356 Sun: 9:00 Kingdom Life, 10:30 Worship Wed: 6:30 p.m.

RiverStoneCC.org April Sound Church,

67 ½ April Wind S., April Sound, 936-5882832 Lighthouse Fellowship Church, Montgomery, 936582-7700 Living Branch Church, Highway 105 W., Lake Conroe, 936-588-3400 New Beginning Bible Church, 19087 Mt. Pleasant Cemetary Rd, 936-5978921 F a t h e r ’s H o u s e , Family Worship Center, Highway 105 W, Lake Conroe, 936-588-4660 Walden Community Church, 12400 Walden Rd, Walden, 936-582-6696 Services 9:30 and 11 a.m.

WaldenChurch.com River of Life Church, 17156 FM 1097, Montgomery, 936-4494414 Cornerstone Church, 1 0 1 1 W. L e w i s , Conroe, 936-756-7792 Lakeside Bible Church, 18940 Freeport Drive Montgomery, 936582-1977 Church of St. John, retreat and wildlife center, 2615 St. Beulah Chapel Rd., Montgomery, 936-597-5757 Fellowship of Montgomery Pastor: Dr. Dale Talbert Executive Pastor: Dr. Brian Roberson 12681 FM 149 Worship Service: 9:00 and 11:00 a.m. Wednesday Children & Student Ministries: 6:30 p.m.

936.597.3949 www.fellowshipofmo ntgomery.net EPISCOPAL St. James the Apostle Episcopal, 1803 Highland Hollow, Conroe, 936756-8831 The Grace Christian Outreach Center 25293 Tisdale Road, Dobbin, Texas 936-689-3141 Mt. Pleasent Baptist Church

FM 149 N., Montgomery, 936-449-6807 The Church @ Lake Conroe 1701 McCaleb Rd M o n t g o m e r y, T X 77316 936-588-4975 www.lakechurch.com Sunday worship @ 10:00 a.m. Wed. activites 6:30-8pm North Shore Church 1 0 a m Wo r s h i p Service 18501 Fm1097 West @ the Bentwater West Gate Entrance Pastor Cary Smith Covenant Fellowship 302 N. Danville, Willis, Tx. 77378 936/890-8034 www.cfmlife.org Celebration Service 10am Sundays Youth Explosing 7pm Wednesdays Pastors Sean & Lori Jo Cook PRESBYTERIAN

First Presbyterian Church of Conroe 2727 N. Loop 336 West Conroe, Texas 936756-8884 Sun. 9:00 & 11:00 Sun Sch 10:00 Nursery provided Church of Christ in Montgomery 301 Pond Street, Montgomery, TX. Sunday Bible Class 9:30 am Worship - 10:30 am and 6:00 pm Wednesday - 7:00 pm Phone: 936-582-4855 E m a i l : cofcmontgomery@cons olidated.net W e b : www.cofcmontgomery.o rg Paul Praschnik, Minister

Obituary

Page 6, Wednesday, April 1 2020, Montgomery County News

LEGAL

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LEGAL

PUBLIC NOTICE In compliance with (2303.157) of the Vehicle Storage lot Facility Act, the following vehicles will be sold “as is” to the Public on Tuesday March 3, 2020, 21587 Eva St. Montgomery, TX 77356 2015 ford focus Vin# 1FADP3L91FL275575 1969 Pontiac Vin# 223679u134121 2018 Ford Explorer Vin# 1FM5K7D86JGB42379 Published Date: April 1, 2020

LEGAL

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LEGAL

CITATION BY PUBLICATION - CIVIL Cause Number: 18-09-12714-CV Clerk of the Court Melisa Miller P.O Box 2985 Conroe, Texas 77305

Attorney Requesting Service G. Mark Creighton 414 W Phillips St #100 Conroe TX 77301 THE STATE OF TEXAS

NOTICE TO DEFENDANT: "You have been sued. You may employ an attorney, If you or your attorney does not file a written answer with the clerk who issued this citation by 10:00 a.m. on the Monday next following the expiration of forty-two days after the date of issuance of this citation and petition, a default judgment may be taken against you."

CITATION ON APPLICATION FOR INDEPENDENT ADMINISTRATION - (BY POSTING) CLERK OF THE COURT ATTORNEY OF RECORD MARK TURNBULL ERIN M. LUCKE P.O. BOX 959 PO BOX 131343 CONROE, TX 77305 SPRING TX 77393

To:

THE STATE OF TEXAS TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN THE ESTATE OF: CRAIG ALDEN WALTHER, Deceased, (D.OD.: 12/08/2019) 20-39074-P, County Court, MONTGOMERY County, Texas, TAMARA LOUISE WALTHER filed in the County Court of MONTGOMERY County, Texas on this the 27th day of January, 2020, an APPLICATION FOR INDEPENDENT ADMINISTRATION AND LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION of said CRAIG ALDEN WALTHER, Deceased, (the said will accompanies said application). Said application will be heard and acted on by said Court on or after the first Monday next after the expiration of ten days from date of posting this citation, at the County Courthouse in CONROE, Texas. All persons interested in said estate are hereby cited to appear before said to appear before said Honorable Court at said above mentioned time and place by filing a written answer contesting such application should they desire to do so. The officer executing this citation shall post the copy of this citation at the courthouse door of the county in which this proceeding is pending, or at the place in or near said courthouse where public notices customarily are posted, for not less than 10 days before return day thereof, exclusive of the date of posting and return the original copy of this citation to the clerk stating in a written return thereon the time when and the place where he posted such copy. GIVEN UNDER MY HAND AND THE SEAL OF SAID COURT at office in CONROE, Texas, on this the 28th day of January, 2020, A.D. ( SEAL County Court at Law #2) Mark Turnbull, COUNTY CLERK 1/28/2020 9:08:54 AM MONTGOMERY COUNTY, TEXAS Eloisa Salinas, Deputy Clerk Eloisa Salinas Published Date: April 1, 2020

Everett E McAnally

You are hereby commanded to appear by filing a written answer to the Plaintiff's First Original Petition at or before 10:00 A.M. of the Monday next after the expiration of forty-two days after the date of issuance of this citation the same being Monday, the 27th day of April, 2020 before the 284thJudicial District Court of Montgomery County, Texas at the Courthouse of said County in Conroe, Texas. Said Plaintiff's First Original Petition was filed in said court on this the 5th day of March, 2020, in this case, numbered 18-09-12714-CV on the docket of said court.

The names of the parties to the cause are as follows: Patricia Thigpen are Plaintiffs and Everett E McAnally are Defendants A brief statement of the nature of this suit is as follows, to wit: Title suit regarding Deeds & Title by limitation. Being a tract of land out of a 12.87acre tract lying and being situated in the Beasley Pruitt Survey, A-420, Montgomery County, Texas, as is more fully shown by Plaintiff's First Original Petition on file in this suit. as is more fully shown by Plaintiff's First Original Petition on file in this suit, The officer executing this writ shall promptly serve the same according to requirements of law, and the mandates thereof, and make due as the law directs.

Issued and given under my hand and the Seal of said Court, at office in Conroe Texas, this on this the 10th day of March, 2020.

Melisa Miller, District Clerk NOTICE TO CREDITORS Montgomery County, Texas By: /s/ Jeff Fiore Notice is hereby given that on the 23rd day of March, 2020, Dinah Reuss was duly Published Dates: March 18, 25, April 1, 8, 2020 appointed as Independent Executor of the Estate of Connie Ubanoski in Cause No. 2039146-P, County Court at Law No. 2, Montgomery County, Texas and Letters Testamentary have been issued to Dinah Reuss.

All persons having claims against the estate are hereby required to present same within the time required by law to the address of Dinah Reuss, being at: c/o Robert Markowitz Attorney at Law 18735 West Cool Breeze Lane Montgomery, TX 77356 DATED the 25th day of March, 2020 This notice issued by: Robert Markowitz Attorney at Law 18735 West Cool Breeze Ln Montgomery, TX 77356 936-582-1945 Fax: 1-888-518-1186

ram@utexas.edu Published Date: April 1, 2020

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The Woodlands Family YMCA It is SAFE to DONATE Though our doors are currently closed due to COVID-19, our hearts are open and our legacy of serve continues to meet the needs of our community.

The Y has scheduled additional blood drives in April to assist with the severe blood shortage.

Healthy and eligible donors are encouraged to donate and help save lives.

It is SAFE to DONATE. Blood Supply is at a critical low due to COVID19. More than 200 drives were canceled in the Greater Houston Metro Area after COVID-19 shut down schools, worship centers and many workplaces which have led to a shortage of lifesaving products and pleas for donors. The blood center needs 800 to 1,000 daily donations to meet the needs of local hospitals. Most of the blood collected during the academic year comes from high schools, which are now closed. In a typical week, the center conducts 130 blood drives, which translates to more than 24,700 units a month. A

unit, which is one pint of blood, can produce plasma, platelets and whole blood that can save up to three lives.

The Blood Donor Coach will be parked in the Shadowbend Y Parking Lot on Friday, April 3, 9am - 4pm and again on Tuesday, April 7, 9am – 3pm. The Y is located at 6145 Shadowbend Place, The Woodlands. For more info please contact Roxanne Davis, YMCA Community Liaison, 281681-6730.

Due to social distancing guidelines, no drop-ins accepted. Please make an appointment online by clicking on link: A p r i l 3 r d : https://www.commitforlife .org/donor/schedules/drive _schedule/310425 A p r i l 7 t h : https://www.commitforlife .org/donor/schedules/drive _schedule/310429 The Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center is following all heightened CDC recommendations regarding sanitization and safety to provide a clean,

safe environment for donations. In accordance with CDC and County, all Social Distancing practices will be observed. The coronavirus does not pose any risk to blood donors, either during the donation

process or while attending organized blood drives.

For more info on COVID19 and Donating Blood, http://www.giveblood.org/ mythbusters-the-truthabout-coronavirus-(covid19)/

The Blood Center is the sole provider of blood and blood components 24/7 to more than 170 hospitals and health care facilities in a 26-county Texas Gulf Coast region. Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center is a

non-profit organization and is accredited by the Food and Drug Administration Thank you and remember prior to donating: EAT. DRINK. BRING ID.

The Virus that may bring us together

by Volker Franke A country paralyzed. A booming economy about to crash. Citizens afraid of an enemy they can’t see, hear or smell. The coronavirus has captured the world.

Life as we have known it has stopped abruptly.

As of March 29, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported some 693,000 infection cases and nearly 30,000 deaths worldwide as a result of the pandemic for which there seems to be no end in sight any time soon.

In the United States, the number of infections is close to 150,000 with the death toll approaching 2,500. Faced with the grim prospect that more than 200,000 Americans could die even with aggressive action to slow the spread of t h e v i r u s , t h e Tr u m p

Administration extended guidelines for social distancing, tele-working and refraining from nonessential travel for another month until April 30, 2020.

Ever since the outbreak of the virus in early December 2019, government leaders face anew the age-old “security versus freedom” dilemma, having to make decisions about the extent to which to curb individual rights, liberties and freedoms in order to ensure public safety and security. But it is not only the physical security of each citizen, our political leaders have to be concerned about. Sheltering in place and reducing social interactions can also bring the economy to a shrieking halt, causing unemployment to explode and jeopardizing the survival

of many small businesses.

The nature and rapid spread of the virus demands a concerted, coordinated and collaborative response where governments, businesses and individual citizens pull together and cooperate to effectively control the greatest public health crisis in a century.

On March 27, along with one of my PhD students, I conducted a nationwide online survey of 445 Americans and asked them how much they trusted the government and their neighbors to “get through the current public health crisis.” Slightly more than half of respondents said they trusted the federal (52.6%) and their local (54.8%) government to address the crisis (24.7% and 18.4% distrust

respectively). Given confusing and sometimes contradictory information provided by the White House, especially in the early days of the outbreak and the fact that specific implementation decisions are made at the local level, this result is not surprising, although one would hope for higher levels of trust in a crisis that can only be addressed at the government level. When it comes to trusting others, more than half of respondents (56.1%) said they trusted “their neighbors to do what’s necessary to get through the current public health crisis” (16.2% distrust).

These findings remind us that when levels of trust in each other and in those we elect to ensure our safety and security are much lower than what they ought to be, we face not just a health crisis but also a democratic and a human connection crisis.

Local and state governments and the federal government are leveraging different strategies to combat the spread and effect of the virus, from social distancing to complete community lock downs. What all these strategies have in common is that public trust and immediate responsiveness is necessary for them to succeed. In a crisis that unfolds rapidly, that affects everybody, that requires fast and broad cooperation and that only governments can address, the results of our survey raise concern.

Public trust cannot be built overnight. It is a long process where those we entrust with our safety and security need to show concern and compassion for the interests, hopes and fears of the many and not just the few that fund their elections.

As horrible as this crisis is, and we cannot yet accurately predict its

Dr. Volker Franke is a Professor of Conflict Management at Kennesaw State University and the Founder and CEO of TRENDS Global, a metroAtlanta based non-profit organization dedicated to community empowerment and public service. magnitude, it ought to be a wake-up call for us to come together and use this shared experience to rebuild a social fabric that has been torn by partisanship and self-indulgence. In the end, the virus that keeps us apart may actually bring us together.

Lone Star College waiving fees for classes moving online Precautions Regarding COVID-19 HOUSTON (March 25, 2020) – Lone Star College announced it will waive fees for courses which are moving online due to the coronavirus and delay a planned tuition increase. The waived fee also applies to the 8-week term, any remaining Next Start classes, May MiniMester, Summer I and Summer II distance learning classes.

LSC will also delay the tuition increase that was scheduled for fall 2020.

“During these times of income uncertainty, it is important that Lone Star College remove obstacles students may face to finish their education,” said Stephen C. Head, Ph.D., LSC chancellor. “Lone Star College is in excellent financial shape and we look forward to welcoming back students.”

The adjusted distance learning fee schedule is: • A distance learning fee will not be charged for campus courses being converted to online.

• A distance learning fee will not be charged for classes that have not yet started (future classes are

tentatively scheduled to begin April 13).

• May Mini-Mester, Summer I and Summer II sessions will not charge a distance learning fee.

• Starting in fall 2020 there will be no distance learning fee assessed to any student.

At the recommendation of the administration, the Board of Trustees approved to delay the tuition fee increase scheduled for fall 2020 which it approved during the March 7, 2020 board meeting.

“Given the current circumstances facing our students and our country, Lone Star College recognizes that now is not the time to increase rates on students and has delayed this increase until spring 2021” said Head.

Distance learning fees for online classes that already started and a student was already charged will not be refunded.

Classes which need be moved online and which will remain face to face are still being determined.

That information will be

shared with students by April 10. All remaining classes are scheduled to resume April 13.

“All decisions will be made with each student’s health and academic success in mind,” said Head.

V i s i t LoneStar.edu/Coronavirus to learn more about how LSC is dealing with COVID-19.

Lone Star College offers high-quality, low-cost academic transfer and career training education to 99,000 students each semester. LSC is training tomorrow’s workforce today and redefining the community college experience to support student success. Stephen C. Head, Ph.D., serves as chancellor of LSC, the largest institution of higher education in the Houston area with an annual economic impact of nearly $3 billion. LSC consists of seven colleges, eight centers, two university centers, Lone Star Corporate College and LSCOnline. To learn more, visit LoneStar.edu.

Lake Conroe open to families at this time Conroe, Texas—With the issuance by Montgomery County of an order directing citizens to “stay home, stop the spread,” the San Jacinto River Authority (SJRA) and Montgomery County wish to clarify that the order does allow individuals to go to “public parks and outdoor recreation areas, therefore Lake Conroe will still remain open to visitors. The community is strongly urged to observe federal, state, and local COVID-19 guidelines if visiting the lake, especially guidelines related to social distancing.

While visiting Lake Conroe, please observe the following guidelines: * Follow CDC recommendations on social distancing. * Gatherings of any number of people outside of a family unit are prohibited. * Follow recommended hygiene practices including frequent hand washing when visiting any common spaces such as marinas, gas

stations, or boat launches. * Review Montgomery County emergency proclamations for information related to county parks, including the Lake Conroe Park off of SH 105.

“It’s important that people take personal responsibility for their health and the health of those around them,” stated County Judge Mark Keough. “We are working with the SJRA to keep Lake Conroe open for recreation, just like our county parks, but we need cooperation from the public. Any recreational use of Lake Conroe should strictly adhere to the CDC guidelines and the County’s recent ‘stay home, stop the spread’ order.”

“Our highest priority is for the health and wellbeing of Lake Conroe visitors and businesses, so it’s important that people take the County’s order and CDC guidelines very seriously,” said SJRA General Manager Jace Houston. “However, we

still want people to be able to get outside with their families and enjoy the lake. We just need people to do it in a way that keeps them safe and healthy. As long as people are courteous to each other and follow the guidelines, we plan to keep the lake open.”

“Precinct 1 advises everyone to enjoy Lake Conroe but make sure that you are following best practices and social distancing while on the water,” said Lt. Cade Montgomery County Precinct 1 Constable’s Office. “Make sure to keep your party to family units only, wash your hands, and for more information regarding COVID-19 visit www.mctx.org.”

For additional information on SJRA visit our website at www.sjra.net, like SJRA on Facebook @SanJacintoRiverAuthori ty, follow us on Twitter @SJRA_1937, or find us on Instagram @sanjacintoriverauthority sjra.

MontgomeryCountyNews.net 936-449-NEWS (6397)

Page 8, Montgomery County News, Wednesday, April 1, 2020

www.montgomerycountynews.net

Veteran of the Week

Brian Wade Hampton, Conroe, Texas

By Lew McCreary Born the son of a motor transport operator in Jacksonville, NC, Brian volunteered (USMC) in 1974…the same day President Nixon resigned from office. He preferred to attend college (Louisiana Tech) but at the time did not have the resources to cover tuition payments.

Brian completed boot camp in San Diego and became part of The Marine Corps Department Depot, then attended an appropriate training school in 29 Palms, CA and took part in an overseas tour, unaccompanied (without his spouse) in Iwakini, Japan before returning to Camp Geiger NC and 2nd Radio Battalion. He then spent a season in the Philippines.

Brian was being groomed to become an electronics maintenance chief directing and managing worldwide military maintenance shops and some of these hitches lasted 2-3 years. His overall active duty time totaled almost 21 years.

Brian’s post high school timeline began in 1974

Montgomery County News has published VETERANS OF THE WEEK since 2014 numbering more than 200. The purpose? An endeavor to educate readers regarding the depth of personal valor and selfless sacrifice of patriotic men and women of WW2, Korea, Vietnam and Middle East deployments during their service commitment and the protection of the homeland. In particular these articles target younger generations that have not been adequately schooled in US history. WW2 still is the biggest event in human history and veterans of that world war are now in their 90’s so please thank them at every opportunity.

when he became a Marine and the world became his workshop. His extensive training in electronic instruction consisted of much specializing until 1975 before deploying a year overseas in an air wing unit and by ’77 was with 2nd Radio Battalion at Camp Lejeune where he labored three years in the art of radio transmission, jamming and radio direction finding. He also spent time on the Japanese island of Okinawa. During that trajectory he gained the key skills necessary to be a radio instructor including various advanced courses…then spent a two-year tour at an Arizona army base and also completed JITZ. (Joint Interoperational Testing Center). The overall objective was to be the smoothest operational specialist and ranking employee available. His next location was Granada where it became obviously impossible to deal smoothly with the variety of radio frequencies that were ‘out there”. Similarly,

these same complications were discovered to be “in play” within/between the U S m i l i t a r y branches…that unfortunately also had separate and unique systems of their own. Fortunately for Brian, he had his own senior enlisted rank, and his working partner was a full colonel…so they worked well together achieving their goals. Would he do it again if requested? Yes, and he would encourage young Americans to develop that same kind of innate skills. Brian acquired his “civilian world” higher education and training at Park College, MO to obtain his undergraduate degree and at Chapman U (Orange, CA) he received his masters in management and information systems respectively. As a civilian he was first employed by TRW, then Lockheed Martin…followed by 25 years with the Federal Aviation Administration as a manager…and for 18 years, and on one occasion, supervised 150 employees,

110 contractors and eleven managers all on one magnificent project. Brian participated in other various genres including the field of data improvement, information security and operations management where he often dealt with data storage and at which time he began thinking about retirement.

Presently in full retirement, he has run afoul of some medical issues that have slowed him down somewhat but he still relishes the role of being a functional “fix it” guy. He and Sharon have enjoyed 42 years of marital bliss together and very recently have acquired eleven acres of unimproved mother earth.

There they plan to exercise their green thumb skills.

Both are practicing Christians and staying comfortably balanced spiritually…and also persistently useful by volunteering for appropriate and worthy causes to explore.

Immediate Shelter-in-place CARES Act provides relief to Ordered For Senior Living Texas farmers, ranchers Apartment Complex

The following statement may be attributed to Texas Farm Bureau President Russell Boening following today’s signing by President Trump of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act. “Today’s signing by President Trump of the economic recovery package known as the CARES Act is welcome news for Texas farm and

ranch families suffering economic impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“These measures provide emergency funding to help farmers and ranchers survive during this national health emergency. Sharp declines in commodity prices and disruptions in market access have put a serious financial strain on America’s producers of food, fiber and fuel.

“This historic stimulus package represents a positive step in the economic recovery of Te x a s f a r m e r s a n d ranchers. Texas Farm Bureau thanks the administration and the Texas Congressional delegation for working to enact this important legislation. We look forward to its implementation.”

MONTGOMERY COUNTY – Montgomery County Judge Mark Keough, in consultation with Montgomery County Public Health District, has issued an Immediate Shelter-in-Place order for The Conservatory at Alden Bridge. This order requires the following: 1.) No one shall enter or exit the address or individual living units at this address: 6203 Alden Bridge Dr. The Woodlands, TX 77382. The only exemptions to this order are personnel required to maintain the facility, food services, medical professionals, caregivers, or law enforcement.

2.)

Until 6:00 p.m. t o m o r r o w ( Tu e s d a y, March 31st), residents may leave the facility in order to stay in another household provided they continue to self-isolate. All individuals located in the household where the resident has relocated must also selfisolate for the duration of this order.

3.)

Residents who

choose to leave the facility shall not return until this order expires on Monday, April 13, 2020 (unless revised and/or extended by County Judge).

It is important to note for accuracy in reporting, The Conservatory is not considered a nursing home or assisted-living facility.

This is an apartment complex for the 55+ community that offers communal dining and recreational activities.

Since the first case of COVID-19 was diagnosed in relation to this facility, all communal activities were suspended, and residents were asked to stay in their individual apartments and monitor themselves for symptoms of COVID-19.

Public Health guidance to the apartment complex’s residents who choose to stay in their individual units are as follows, to mitigate the spread of COVID-19: 1.) Stay in your own apartment at all times.

2.) Do not let visitors,

including family, neighbors or providers, in your apartment.

3.) Always stay at least 6 feet away from any other person.

4.) Take your temperature twice a day, once in the morning and once at night.

5.)

If you develop a fever or cough, call Public Health at 936-523-5040 (24 hours a day).

6.) If you have trouble breathing, call 911.

7.) Wash your hands, for 20 seconds, using soap at least four times a day, or as much as possible, especially after using the bathroom and before eating.

Montgomery County Public Health District’s mission is promoting a healthy, resilient community through health education, disease prevention, clinical services, and emergency preparedness. For more information about the Montgomery County Public Health District please go to www.mcphdtx.org.