Governor Greg Abbott is putting the Texas economy's re-opening on warp speed.
The Governor opened child care centers, youth clubs, and beauty services to the list of businesses that can re-open immediately. On Friday, restaurants can have up to 50% capacity and bars can open to 25% capacity. Other businesses that can open Friday include zoos and aquariums. And at the end of the month, youth sports can return, as can professional sports without fans. Abbott explained to KTRH's Sean Hannity on Fox why he is moving quickly.
"Let me tell you what many, media outlets will not tell you. Today, when Texas re-opened even more for business, was the lowest number of COVID deaths since April the third," Abbott said. You can watch the rest of that interview HERE.
Abbott says the state reported nine new deaths yesterday for a total 1,352.
The Greater Houston area added no deaths yesterday, so our total remains 382.
Elsewhere:
- The Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston says a priest who worked at Holy Ghost Catholic Church in Bellaire has died after five members of his religious order tested positive for coronavirus. Public Masses at the parish have been cancelled. Father Donnell Kirchner was 79.
- Students at Harmony School of Innovation-Katy don't want a virtual graduation. They have started a petition to have a full graduation ceremony. So far they have 600 signatures.
- The Houston zoo, which can re-open Friday, says they will reveal their plans to return later this week. The Museum of Fine Arts says it plans to re-open Saturday.
- Miller Outdoor Theatre has canceled all of its events through the end of July.