Layne’s Chicken Fingers CEO Garrett Reed told Community Impact the franchise held a soft opening for its new Cypress location on July 17 and its grand opening on July 18.

The details: Located at a former Zaxby's, Reed said the new Cypress location boasts an expansive dining area featuring a country-inspired design with rustic elements. Creating over 30 jobs for Cypress area residents franchise owner Masroor Fatany said the new location is located adjacent to Wendy’s within the HEB parking lot and across from Lifetime Fitness.

On the menu: Known for its crispy fried chicken meals, Reed said Layne’s Chicken Fingers contains marinated tenderloin chicken and is hand breaded to offer a crispy crunchy exterior that reflects traditional fried chicken.

Friendswood's daniéle laser + aesthetics is opening their second location on Aug. 24 in Cypress off House Hahl Road, staff confirmed.

The details: Offering laser hair removal services for men and women, staff said daniéle laser + aesthetics uses Candela GentleMax Pro technology which treats all skin tones. For their grand opening, staff said they will be offering 50% off laser hair removal packages.

• Opening Aug. 24

• 20049 House Hahl Road, Ste. 403, Cypress

Need to catch up on Community Impact’s coverage from this week? Check out these trending stories across the northern portion of the Greater Houston area from July 13-17.

1. Charolais by Chef Austin Simmons opens in The Woodlands featuring customized steak boards

2. Construction to begin in late July on Valley Ranch's H-E-B-anchored Commerce District

3. Houston Airport System welcomes more than 4M passengers during FIFA World Cup

4. Five Spring-Klein area restaurants to participate in Houston Restaurant Weeks

5. Magnolia names Bob Harvey as new city administrator

6. Compassion United opens 2 transitional homes, expanding housing capacity

7. Cy-Fair Fire Department Fire Chief to perform self-evaluation

Gov. Greg Abbott named Robert S. Howden, one of his senior advisers and his office's legislative director, as Texas' 116th secretary of state effective July 18. Howden will succeed Secretary of State Jane Nelson, who resigned effective July 17 more than three years after she took office.

As the state's chief elections officer, Howden will be responsible for overseeing the application of Texas election laws and assisting local election officials. The secretary of state's office also manages business records, government rules and regulations, and other official duties.

Following Abbott's appointment, Howden must be confirmed for the position by at least two-thirds of the Texas Senate. The state Legislature's next regular session will begin in January.