THE WIND UP: VYPE Softball Rankings, No. 6 Katy Tigers
The Katy Tigers have made the Regional Semifinals in back-to-back seasons heading into 2023. Led by legendary coach Kalum Haack, who enters his 25th season at Katy and his 36th overall as a head coach, the Tigers could make another deep run in 2023.
The Affordable New Option for Power Outages
You know how it goes in Houston. It is sunny and warm one minute and cold and icy the next. Then, the lights go out. Well, what about all that food in the refrigerator or even worse, a life saving medical device that can’t run? What can you do to prepare your family or your home for a power outage?
‘Remain weather aware’: Gov. Abbott activates state emergency response resources ahead of severe weather threats
Gov. Greg Abbott directed the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) to activate state emergency response resources in anticipation of severe weather and potential flooding expected in the state beginning Tuesday through the evening.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott bans TikTok on government-owned devices, citing concern about potential Chinese threat
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said on Wednesday that he's banned the use of the social media platform TikTok on any government-issued devices as he claims the "threat of the Chinese Communist Party gaining access to critical U.S. information and infrastructure continues to grow."
Fort Bend, Katy voters reject tax rate for teacher pay raises, added security to schools – Houston Public Media
Katy’s tax increase would have bumped up salaries for teachers and staff by 4 percent this year. Fort Bend would have increased starting pay for teachers, created a bonus program and placed a police officer at every elementary campus.
houstonpublicmedia.orgWoman pleads guilty to smuggling spider monkey into the U.S.
A 20-year-old Katy woman Tuesday pleaded guilty in federal court to smuggling a spider monkey from Mexico into the United States via the Gateway International Bridge in Brownsville. The spider monkey is valued at about $8,500. However, when authorities opened the box, they discovered a live spider monkey and referred Valdez to secondary inspection. According to the press release, later that day, agents found multiple online postings advertising the sale of the spider monkey in the Katy and Houston areas with Valdez’s phone number listed in the advertisements. She admitted to knowingly importing the monkey despite not declaring it and intentionally fleeing from law enforcement, the press release reads.
myrgv.comKaty ISD calls on voters to approve same tax rate to provide salary increase for teachers; Sen. Bettencourt fires back
Voters living in the area of Katy Independent School District will soon vote on a tax rate election (TRE.) It would keep the rate the same and the school district says the extra money they gain would help some staffing shortages.
‘Free and anonymous’: Dispose of expired, unwanted drugs as part of ‘National Prescription Drug Take Back Initiative’
The Katy ISD Police Department, in partnership with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), will allow the public to safely dispose of potentially dangerous, expired, unused and unwanted prescription medications on Saturday.
Justice Department Settles with Cooler Production Company to Resolve Immigration-Related Discrimination Claims
The Department of Justice announced today that it reached a settlement with Igloo Products Corp., a company that produces coolers, jugs and hydration products, based in Katy, Texas. Instead, Igloo reserved its seasonal production helper positions for workers with H-2B visas based on their immigration status. Under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), employers generally cannot discriminate based on citizenship, immigration status or national origin at any stage of the hiring process. The Civil Rights Division’s Immigrant and Employee Rights Section (IER) is responsible for enforcing the anti-discrimination provision of the INA. The statute prohibits citizenship status and national origin discrimination in hiring, firing or recruitment or referral for a fee; unfair documentary practices; and retaliation and intimidation.
justice.govMayor’s Reversal On Housing Deal, Greg Travis, & Growth in Katy (Oct. 12, 2021) – Houston Public Media
On Tuesday's show: Why the mayor changed his mind on a controversial housing contract, City Council Member Greg Travis answers your questions, what's behind recent growth in Katy, and a new memorial to Houstonians lost to COVID-19.
houstonpublicmedia.orgOMG! Burger Has Successful Soft Opening Of New Location In Spring
Spring, Texas – Katy-based OMG! Burger is opening a third restaurant and their first in the north-Houston area at 8854 Spring Cypress Road in Spring. Burger gives particular attention to being able to accommodate different dietary restrictions and offers multiple vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Burger is one of very few burger joints that offers halal and zabiha halal options. Burger is open Monday through Thursday from 11:00AM – 10:00PM, Friday and Saturday from 11:00AM – 10:30PM, and Sunday from 12:00PM – 9:30PM.
springhappenings.comTexans In Tokyo: Mensah-Stock Wins Wrestling Gold, U.S. Women’s Basketball Stomps Australia & More – Houston Public Media
Katy's Tamyra Mensah-Stock became the first American Black woman to win wrestling gold. The U.S. women's basketball team won its 53rd consecutive Olympic game. America regained the overall medals lead. At 77 total medals, the U.S. now leads China by seven.
houstonpublicmedia.orgTruck driver gets minimum of 16 years in crash that killed 5 Las Vegas bicyclists
An Arizona box truck driver who plowed into bicyclists on a stretch of Nevada highway last December, killing five and injuring four, was sentenced Wednesday to a minimum of 16 years in Nevada state prison for driving under the influence of methamphetamine causing death.
news.yahoo.comHe told cocaine traffickers a bribe would clear their charges. Now he’s headed to prison for scamming them.
James Morris Balagia, known as "DWI Dude," was sentenced to more than 15 years in prison for pocketing money from drug traffickers he represented that he falsely claimed would be bribes to officials for favorable treatment in their cases.
washingtonpost.comSome Texans use 2021 Ford F-150 hybrid pickup trucks to power homes amid winter storm
Randy Jones of Katy, Texas used his 2021 Ford F-150 to power space heaters and other appliances throughout his home when he lost power earlier this week during the winter storm. When Randy Jones of Katy, Texas, bought his new Ford F-150 pickup truck a few weeks ago, he didn't think he'd be using it to keep the lights on in his house during a historic winter storm that left millions without power. The 2021 hybrid's onboard generator "gives you the ability to use your truck like a mobile generator" that can produce up to 7.2 kW of power, according to Ford. When he lost power Sunday night, he decided to get out a few extension cords and put the generator to the test. "Quite a few of the neighbors said, 'Hey, I'm getting one,' like, 'I'm trading my Dodge or GMC,' because, South Texas, with hurricanes and things like that, we're always having power outages."
cnbc.comKaty's Cane Island presents new move-in ready luxury homes (Sponsored)
Photo courtesy of Cane IslandNew luxury homes, at or near completion for spring move-in, are now available in Katy’s Cane Island including a vast selection of three-, four- and five-bedroom designs by some of Houston’s leading builders. New Cane Island homes epitomize luxury at every turn, from island kitchens with butler pantries and morning rooms to secluded wine grottos, inviting owner’s suites, state-of-the-art media rooms and spacious outdoor entertaining spaces. Plus, move-in ready homes offer the dedicated space to create a professional, comfortable and functional home office setting.
chron.comCouple finds body behind house under construction in Texas
KATY, Texas (AP) — A couple found a dead man while looking at a house under construction Saturday in a Houston suburb. The man's body was discovered in a drainage ditch in the late afternoon behind the home in Katy, Harris County Sheriff's Office Sgt. “The individual had obviously suffered some form of trauma, but as of right now we're not really sure what happened to the individual,” Brown said. Brown said investigators will look at footage from nearby security cameras in search of clues about how the man died. Katy is about 30 miles (48 kilometers) west of Houston.
chron.comLuxury abounds in Katy's Cane Island (Sponsored)
Photo courtesy of Cane IslandFrom its award-winning arrival experience of lit Living Arches and expertly manicured esplanades to its resort-style Cane Quarter, expansive homesites and acclaimed builders, Katy’s Cane Island epitomizes luxury and quality is everywhere. In Cane Quarter, residents enjoy the convenience of a two-story fitness center housing advanced cardio equipment, strength-building machines and a selection of free weights.
chron.comHomeAid partners with two builders for shelter renovation
HomeAid Houston, Gryphon Builders and Jeff Hunt Construction are combining resources to make renovations at the Krause Children’s Center, a Katy area residential treatment center for girls in crisis, ages 12 to 17. Both builders are members of the Greater Houston Builders Association’s Remodelers Council. HomeAid Houston is a 501(c)(3) charity of the Greater Houston Builders Association (GHBA). I am also impressed with the services Krause Center provides the teens who live there. HomeAid is a true partner on the project and provides support during the construction.”For more information on HomeAid Houston visit www.homeaidhouston.org or call 281-970-8970.
chron.comCane Island builders to ring in new year with special offers (Sponsored)
Photo courtesy of Cane IslandThe new year brings with it a number of money-saving offers in Cane Island, the award-winning Katy community of new homes, where for a limited time families can take advantage of free upgrades, money back at closing, and other special incentives. Buyers can see a builder representative or go to CaneIsland.com and choose from one or more of the community’s acclaimed builders to connect virtually or in person to learn more. There is a current list of the community’s move-in ready homes, virtual tours of model homes and information on premium, acreage properties in The Estates, Cane Island’s custom-home neighborhood.
chron.comHome for the Holidays Home Tour continues in Katy's Cane Island
There’s still time to delight in Cane Island’s Home for the Holidays Home Tour, a magical experience presented by the award-winning Katy community of new homes. Buyers who purchase a new, move-in ready Cane Island home by Dec. 31 will be automatically entered to win a one-of-a-kind family trip to Disney World. Visitors can also register in the community’s Cane Quarter Welcome Center, 2100 Cane Island Parkway. Entry forms are readily available, and each entry has an equal chance of winning.) Visit CaneIsland.com/HomeForTheHolidays for rules and restrictions.
chron.comOn-site restaurant, yoga studio highlight Cane Island's Cane Quarter
Whether it’s to keep up with fitness goals, grab a bite with friends and family or take in a concert or movie night under the stars, it’s all happening in Cane Quarter — the central gathering spot in Katy’s Cane Island. Here in this tranquil, tree-lined enclave, residents of the Katy community of new homes enjoy year-round fitness, entertainment and camaraderie with neighbors in a sophisticated, resort-quality setting.
chron.comMove-in ready homes are now available in Katy's Cane Island
New move-in ready homes are available in Katy’s Cane Island, featuring a selection of three-, four- and five-bedroom designs. Plus, Cane Island homesites start at 50 feet in width, giving families plenty of open space and the feel of a larger property. Starting in the low $300,000s, new Cane Island homes feature island kitchens with butler’s pantries and morning rooms, home office spaces, secluded wine grottos, spacious family rooms, owner’s suites, state-of-the-art media rooms, game rooms, outdoor entertaining spaces and more.
chron.comCane Island builders present money-saving offers in time for fall
Just in time for fall, home builders in Katy’s Cane Island are offering money-saving deals on new, move-in ready homes, including money back at closing, free upgrades and other special offers. Buyers can go to CaneIsland.com and choose from one or more of the community’s acclaimed builders to connect virtually or in person with their respective sales representatives to learn more. Buyers will also find a current list of the community’s move-in ready homes, virtual tours of model homes and information on premium, acreage properties in The Estates, Cane Island’s custom home neighborhood.
chron.comThe Estates at Cane Island adds Cason Graye Homes to custom builder lineup
The Estates at Cane Island adds Cason Graye Homes to custom builder lineupThe Estates at Cane Island offers acreage homesites where lot owners can build now or later, to allow for maximum flexibility. Image 1 of / 1 Caption Close The Estates at Cane Island adds Cason Graye Homes to custom builder lineup 1 / 1 Back to GalleryCason Graye Homes has been named a preferred custom builder in The Estates at Cane Island, where it joins Jeff Paul Custom Homes and William David Custom Homes in the Katy community’s gated enclave of estate properties. To reach The Estates at Cane Island, take the Cane Island Parkway, exit off I-10 west of Grand Parkway. Head north on Cane Island Parkway and take the roadway into Cane Island, then left on Franz Road. Go to www.caneisland.com/homes/the-estates to learn more about Cane Island’s collection of luxury builders, view available custom homesites and custom homes.
chron.comPremium custom homesites now available in Katys Cane Island
Premium custom homesites now available in Katys Cane IslandHalf-acre plus homesites are now available in The Estates at Cane Island, the Katy custom home neighborhood with an impressive, tree-lined gated entry leading to a forested setting of distinctly lit oaks, crape myrtles and pines. Tucked away in the award-winning community of Cane Island, this gated custom home enclave is minutes from employment centers, shopping, dining and entertainment thanks to its convenient location just off Cane Island Parkway. Each custom home in The Estates at Cane Island also is built with a garage-attached, air-conditioned street pantry ideal for deliveries when a resident is away. To reach The Estates at Cane Island, take the Cane Island Parkway exit off I-10 minutes west of the Grand Parkway. Head north on Cane Island Parkway and take the roadway directly into the community.
chron.comSheriffs office: Estranged wife finds man shot dead in Katy home
Sheriffs office: Estranged wife finds man shot dead in Katy homeA Katy man was shot dead in the entryway of his home Friday afternoon, according to the Harris County Sheriffs Office. A Katy man was shot dead in the entryway of his home Friday afternoon, according to the Harris County Sheriffs Office. Photo: Courtesy Photo Photo: Courtesy Photo Image 1 of / 1 Caption Close Sheriffs office: Estranged wife finds man shot dead in Katy home 1 / 1 Back to GalleryPolice are investigating a Katy mans killing in the entryway of his home Friday afternoon, according to the Harris County Sheriffs Office. A man in his early 30s was found dead around 5 p.m. in his home in the 3300 block of Lindenfield Drive, Sheriffs Office Spokesman Jason Spencer said. The mans estranged wife found his body and called 911, said Spencer.
chron.com30 years ago: Clint Black dazzles at the rodeo and NKOTB packs the Summit
30 years ago: Clint Black dazzles at the rodeo and NKOTB packs the SummitKaty native Clint Black, who used to sing for free at picnic tables in Bear Creek Park, proved his star power Sunday, Feb. 18, 1990, with a record sellout crowd in the Astrodome. Photo: Richard Carson, Houston Chronicle Photo: Richard Carson, Houston Chronicle Image 1 of / 38 Caption Close 30 years ago: Clint Black dazzles at the rodeo and NKOTB packs the Summit 1 / 38 Back to GalleryIf its February, its rodeo time in Houston. In this months roundup of Houston Chronicle photos from 30 years ago, photographers were there for George Straits and Clint Blacks performances. Black, raised in Katy, opened the rodeo before a then-record-setting crowd of 55,000 at the Astrodome. The most enjoyable part of the whole evening for me was listening to Ron Stones introduction, Black told Mitchell afterward.
chron.comBuyers can live among nature at Grayson Woods in Katy
Buyers can live among nature at Grayson Woods in KatyDeveloped by Hines, Grayson Woods sits along the scenic Buffalo Bayou and features 180 homesites with roughly 50 acres designated as a nature preserve, including wooded forests, winding nature trails, community lakes, scenic overlooks, and more. less Developed by Hines, Grayson Woods sits along the scenic Buffalo Bayou and features 180 homesites with roughly 50 acres designated as a nature preserve, including wooded forests, winding nature trails, community ... more Image 1 of / 1 Caption Close Buyers can live among nature at Grayson Woods in Katy 1 / 1 Back to GalleryLocated in the heart of Katy, Grayson Woods is nestled among the areas finest amenities and top-reated schools. The community is set within the backdrop of wooded nature preserves, amenity lakes, open spaces and walking trails. Known for its intriguing streetscapes, Grayson Woods exhibits a broad range of award-winning architecture, from updated traditional favorites to bold, ultra-modern designs. Further detailsTo learn more about Grayson Woods or for sales center and model home information, visit www.graysonwoodskaty.com.
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