January 19, 2022 Hays Free Press

JANUARY 19, 2022 WANTED

LATEST RULES

Hays CISD seeking guest teachers due to shortage of substitutes.

Local municipalities respond to shortened quarantine, isolation guidelines by CDC.

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Vol. 127 • No. 43

Serving Hays County, TX

Buda seeks dewatering solutions for homes

BY BRITTANY ANDERSON

BUDA – After years of dealing with foundation cracks, constantly-flooded backyards and unlevel streets and driveways, a handful of residents in the southeast portion of Buda’s Whispering Hollow subdivision may soon find

Prior to the subdivision’s construction, a report by BSEACD (Barton Springs Edwards Aquifer Conservation District) geologist Brian Hunt identified historical springs and seeps in the area, which explains that the conditions homeowners are facing today are caused by perched aquifers.

some relief.

Following a groundwater study conducted by Aqua Strategies Inc. (ASI),

a water planning and engineering company, a meeting between some of the subdivision’s affected

residents and officials in the city’s engineering and public works department took place on Jan. 10 to

discuss the study’s findings and form an ‘implementation committee.’

ASI’s study was included

in the city’s 2021 Capital Improvements Plan, and the establishment of the committee was requested by city council in order to further investigate the issue and come to find a solution.

Several Whispering Hol-

DEWATERING SOLUTIONS, 8

What to know about the COVID booster shot

BY MEGAN WEHRING

Go, cat, go!

PHOTOS BY DAVID WHITE

Elvis shakes it up at Kyle Area Senior Zone

Elvis was in the building Sunday – that building being the Krug Activity Center in downtown Kyle. Elvis, or Dennis Hall as he’s known to those close to him, performed many of the King’s classics and wooed the ladies with silk scarfs. Elvis tossed several teddy bears to his fans as well during his rendition of Teddy Bear. Bottom left, KASZ Program/Entertainment Coordinator Vanessa Westbrook shared some dance moves with the King as well. The event is one of many fundraisers planned to help with the design and construction of a new senior activity center. Once the KASZ organization raises $200,000, the city of Kyle and Hays County will each match the $200,000 to begin the design and construction planning phase of the center.

With the recent emergence of the Omicron variant, doctors and health officials are urging people to get fully vaccinated and boosted.

“Vaccination is extremely critical for people,” said Dr. Michael Kerr at Ascension Seton Hays, “especially at high risk to give them both protection from catching [COVID] but more importantly, some protection against becoming extremely ill.”

The Omicron variant has been sweeping through communities at a rapid rate, causing an increased need for more people to get their booster. People who are fully vaccinated with a booster have built-in protection to keep from getting critically ill, Kerr explained.

“Their immune system essentially has a head start at fighting off any infection,” Kerr said.

FINDING A BOOSTER SHOT Hospitals across the state and nation are struggling to keep up with the demands of the COVID-19 pandemic, and many are seeing more patients because of it.

“What Ascension has been doing,” Kerr said, “which I have been really happy and proud of is they have been trying to respond to the community’s need. They have been setting up appoint-

ment testing centers so people don’t have to come to the emergency department just looking for a test.”

Kerr said when people visit his emergency department looking for a COVID-19 test, the staff gives them a phone number and a testing clinic.

“Now obviously, if you are sick, please come in [and] let us take a look at you,” Kerr said. “We sometimes get things started in the waiting area with a clinician team trying to figure out what’s going on and get things moving for you. I don’t like people waiting when you are sick.”

While Seton Hays did see a low volume of patients in the wake of the pandemic because people didn’t want to go to the hospital, Kerr said it’s starting to pick back up.

“We are responding to the numbers, just seeing everybody that’s coming in,” Kerr told the Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch, “and trying to do the best we can. We are seeing a slight increase in volume but we expected it.”

Those seeking COVID-19 testing who are either asymptomatic or with mild symptoms are encouraged to call 2-1-1, or (877) 541-7905 or visit 211texas.org to find a testing site.

Ascension asks residents to reserve emergency departments for those who are seriously ill or injured.

WHO CAN GET A BOOSTER SHOT

Hays CISD sets dates for 2022 bond public forums

BY BRITTANY ANDERSON

Hays CISD is holding two public forums regarding a $115 million, four-item bond package that is being considered for the May 2022 ballot.

The bond package is focused on the continued growth of HCISD. The items being proposed for the bond include an academic

The first public forum will take place on Jan. 19 at 6 p.m. in the Lehman High cafeteria. The second public forum will take place on Jan. 20 at 6 p.m. in the Kunkel Room at the Historic Buda Elementary School.

support center, construction for elementary school #16, design fees for elementary school

NEW AG AGENT

Hays County names new Agricultural Extension Agent.

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People should observe the following guidelines when getting a booster shot, according to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

#17 and 55 school buses.

The first public forum

HCISD BOND PROPS, 8

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ISSN#1087-9323

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STATE NEWS

Dozens of school districts close due to COVID-19 outbreaks Several dozen school districts across the state were forced to close last week due to the omicron variant of COVID-19 sending home students, staff and teachers. Most school districts planned to reopen on Tuesday following the MLK holiday.

“Every superintendent wants to be able to have kids in the classroom and teachers in the classroom … but you get to a certain critical place where you don't have enough staff available and you have to shut the campus down,” Kevin Brown, executive director of the Texas Association of School Administrators, said in a Texas Tribune report. “We want to keep kids safe, and you have to have a certain number of adults in the building.”

The Hutto school district, northeast of Austin, will remain closed at least through Wednesday with 200 staff members and 1,680 students reported absent, according to the Austin American-Statesman. In North Texas, more than three dozen school districts closed last week.

The number of new cases of COVID-19 cases in Texas during the past week reached a record high of 506,226, up 22% from the week before, according to the Coronavirus Resource Center at Johns Hopkins University. The number of new deaths dropped slightly, with 623 reported statewide in the past week.

Hospitalizations are on the uptick, with 12,071 lab-confirmed COVID-19 hospitalizations reported by the Texas Department of State Health Services.

That is up 23% from the previous week.

EMPTY SHELVES RESULT OF WORKER SHORTAGE It feels a bit like March 2020 when one goes to the grocery store lately.

But this time, it’s not necessarily supply chain woes but a shortage of workers to restock, as the omicron variant of COVID-19 sweeps the state. The Dallas Morning News reported shoppers should expect the shortages to continue until the fourth wave of the virus subsides.

“Either other employees work overtime, or the shift goes empty,” said Gary Huddleston, grocery industry consultant to the Texas Retailers Association. That means groceries are stuck on trailers, in stockrooms or at distribution centers, he added.

One trend since the pandemic began is the marked increase in self-checkout aisles, which now account for nearly a third of all transactions, The Morning News reported.

VOTING DEADLINE FOR PRIMARY IS APPROACHING Folks who want to vote in the March 1 Texas primary have to be registered to vote by Jan. 31.

Texas Secretary of State John Scott encouraged all eligible Texans to register as they prepare to head to the polls for early voting next month.

“We want all eligible Texans to participate in all of this year's upcoming elections, including the primary elections in which voters will choose the candidates to appear on the November 2022 general election ballot,” Scott said. “Don't wait until the last minute — start the registration process today!”

Texans will pick nominees in the Republican and Democratic

Capital Highlights

by Gary Borders

primaries for governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, land commissioner, agriculture commissioner, and all 38 members of the U.S. House who represent Texas.

HOTTEST DECEMBER IN TEXAS SINCE SUL ROSS WAS GOVERNOR Yup, it was hot last month as we hung Christmas lights and decorations.

Texas experienced the warmest December on record since 1889.

Throughout the state, temperatures ranged 5 to 9 degrees above average.

“It’s like the entire state moved south for the winter,” said John Nielsen-Gammon, the state climatologist. “Amarillo got Dallas’s normal temperatures, Dallas got Corpus Christi’s normal temperatures, and Austin got Brownsville’s normal temperatures.

“Not only is it by far the warmest December since the beginning of comprehensive weather records, it will probably also turn out to be the warmest winter month, period,” said Nielsen-Gammon.

The hot weather increased drought conditions throughout the state. More than two-thirds of the state is experiencing drought conditions, with 10% in extreme drought.

“In much of West Texas, it hasn’t rained for over two months,” Nielsen-Gammon said.

“The high temperatures increase the rate of evaporation, drying out everything and leading to increased wildfire risk.”

WILDLIFE VACCINE AIRDROPS TO COMBAT RABIES The state has resumed airdrops of oral rabies vaccines that have led to the elimination of the domestic dog-coyote and Texas fox rabies virus variants along the Texas border. DSHS began using aircraft on Jan. 12 to airdrop more than 1.17 million baits containing the rabies vaccine in 19 border counties.

The project will last two weeks.

“The annual rabies vaccine/bait distribution along the border of Texas and Mexico is critical for the protection of humans, pets and livestock in Texas,” said Dr. Susan Rollo, with DSHS. “The maintenance distribution levels help keep the U.S. free of the canine strain.”

The vaccine baits are small plastic pellets dipped in fish oil and coated with fishmeal crumbles that attract coyotes, gray foxes and other wild carnivores.

Rabies spreads through a bite of an infected animal. Skunks and bats are now the most common source of rabies in Texas.

Gary Borders is a veteran award-winning Texas journalist. He published a number of community newspapers in Texas during a 30-year span, including in Longview, Fort Stockton, Nacogdoches and Cedar Park. Email: gborders@texaspress.com.

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • January 19, 2022

Municipalities respond to shortened quarantine, isolation guidelines by CDC

BY MEGAN WEHRING

“The isolation period has been reduced from School districts and 10 days for people who cities implemented proto- test positive for COVID to cols after health officials five days,” said Tim Savoy, released new quarantine chief communications ofand isolation guidelines. ficer, in the district’s letter, On Dec. 27, 2021, the “if they are asymptomatic, Centers for Disease Confever-free for 24 hours trol and Prevention (CDC) and wear a mask for an shortened the recomadditional five days while mended isolation time for around others. People who the public. People who meet the criteria to end test positive for COVID-19 isolation after five days should isolate for five days but who do not wish to and if they are asymptom- wear a mask, or are unable atic or their symptoms are to do so for the next five resolving without a fever days, must remain home for 24 hours, they should and away from school for follow that with five days the full 10-day isolation of wearing a mask when period.” around others.

Students who are out The CDC also updated of school with a positive the recommended quarCOVID test result, or for antine period for anyone close-contact isolation, no who is exposed to somelonger need to login daily one with COVID-19. Those for remote conferencing, who have received their according to HCISD. booster, completed the “This was something primary series of Pfizer or the state had required for Moderna vaccine within attendance counting purthe last six months or poses,” Savoy said in the completed the primary se- letter. “Since it is no longer ries of the Johnson & John- necessary, and was burson vaccine should wear a densome on students and mask around others for 10 teachers; the district will days and test on day five if no longer offer it. Instead, possible. If symptoms start COVID-related absences to develop, get a test and will be managed as would stay home. any other absence for illPeople who have comness. Students can access pleted the first series of assignments directly from Pfizer or Moderna over six their teachers to make up months ago, completed missing work. Secondary the first series of J&J over students can access their two months ago, have assignments in Schoology not been boosted or have and elementary students not received any of the will be able to get assignvaccines should stay home ments in hard copy, or by for five days and after that, other means at the teachcontinue to wear a mask around others for five more days. If quarantine is not possible, wear a mask for 10 days and test on day five if possible.

“The Omicron variant is spreading quickly and has the potential to impact all facets of our society,” said Dr. Rochelle Walensky, CDC director. “[The] CDC’s updated recommendations for isolation and quarantine balance what we know about the spread of the virus and the protection provided by vaccination and booster doses. These updates ensure people can safely continue their daily lives.

Prevention is our best option: get vaccinated, get boosted, wear a mask in public indoor settings in areas of substantial and high community transmission, and take a test before you gather.”

er’s discretion.”

HCISD said the community should prepare for a “bit of an uncertain January” and to continue keeping one word in mind as the Omicron variant continues to unfold: grace.

DRIPPING SPRINGS ISD Students, staff and visitors at Dripping Springs ISD (DSISD) who have symptoms of COVID-19 are required to stay home.

People who are confirmed to have COVID-19 or are showing symptoms need to be isolated regardless of their vaccination status.

Parents should report to the school nurse if their student tests positive, according to DSISD’s health protocols. The student is required to isolate and may return to school by checking in through the nurse’s office when the following criteria are met: At least 24 hours have passed with no fever, symptoms have improved and at least 10 days have passed since symptoms first appeared (or since testing positive if asymptomatic).

Staff members will not be permitted to be at work and will be required to use personal or local leave for absences if they test positive, according to the district’s protocols.

Staff can return to work when: • If symptomatic, at least five days have passed since symptom onset, and fever free, and

other symptoms have improved • For those with no symptoms, at least five days have passed since the day they tested positive • DSISD strongly recommends staff wear a mask for an additional five days after their return to work per CDC guidance.

LOCAL CITIES RESPOND The cities of Kyle, Buda and Dripping Springs, along with Hays County, all recommend residents follow the CDC guidelines regarding COVID-19 protocols and precautions.

For more information, please visit the following websites.

KYLE: https://www.

cityofkyle.com/communications/city-kyle-coronavirus-covid-19-update

BUDA: https://www.

ci.buda.tx.us/677/Curative-COVID-19-Testing

DRIPPING SPRINGS:

https://www.cityofdrippingsprings.com/emergency-management/pages/covid-19-information

HAYS COUNTY: https://

hayscountytx.com/ covid-19-information-for-hays-county-residents/

HAYS CISD Prior to the return of students, Hays CISD sent an email letter to the district community Jan. 3 explaining new protocols and precautions. The district is installing air purifiers in all classrooms and other areas on campuses to help neutralize viruses like COVID-19 and the flu but to also reduce other airborne contaminants.

HCISD is following the CDC’s recommended isolation protocols.

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Opinion

QUOTE OF THE WEEK “We may have all come on different ships, but we’re in the same boat now.”

–Martin Luther King, Jr.

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • January 19, 2022

Journalists need to hold the forces that be accountable Journalists have been debating how to most effectively cover a defeated ex-president who lies as he breathes and aspires to restore his reign by any means necessary.

Donald Trump has an iron grip on his cultish party, so it’d be a dereliction of duty to ignore him – and the existential threat he represents.

But by indulging him in an interview, does that not give him more oxygen?

I’m happy to report that Steve Inskeep at NPR found a way Monday to thread the needle. The solution is to over prepare, give the listeners and the readers as much context as possible, and push back in real time whenever the liar lies.

For instance: TRUMP (still obsessing about the 2020 election): You look at the findings. You look at the number of votes…

Look at Philadelphia. Is it true that there were far more votes than there were voters?

INSKEEP: It is not true that there were far more votes than voters.

Inskeep gave Trump air time to recycle his lie that he actually won Arizona but that it was stolen by voter fraud.

But instead of letting the lie stand unchallenged, NPR checked in with Arizona’s Republican election officials – who recently conducted a ballot review and reaffirmed Joe Biden’s statewide win. The posted NPR story says this: Republican officials in Maricopa County (the most populous and pivotal county) debunked the characterizations of Trump and his allies in a 93-page rebuttal issued last week. “The people who have spent the last year proclaiming our free and fair elections are rigged are lying or delusional,” said Bill Gates, the GOP chair of the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors.

At another point in the interview – which NPR had sought for the last six years – Inskeep reminded Trump that he lost all of his post-election court cases. This exchange was revealing: INSKEEP: Let me read you some short quotes. The first is by one of the judges – one of the 10 judges you appointed – who ruled on this. And there were many judges, but 10 who you appointed.

Brett Ludwig, U.S. District Court in Wisconsin, who was nominated by you in 2020. He’s on the bench and he says, quote, “This court allowed the plaintiff the chance to make his case, and he has lost on the merits.” Another quote, Kory Langhofer, your own campaign attorney in Arizona, Nov. 12, 2020, quote, “We are not alleging fraud in this lawsuit. We are not alleging anyone stealing the election.”

TRUMP: When you

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Guest Column

by Dick Polman

look at Langhofer, I disagree with him as an attorney. I did not think he was a good attorney to hire. I don’t know what his game is…

He maligned one of his own lawyers, and didn’t even bother to address the fact that 10 of his own judicial appointees had ruled against him in case after case (including his Hail Mary in Pennsylvania).

All told, NPR accurately observed: “Repeatedly in the interview, Trump presses his party to adhere to his point of view and false claims…

That’s a typical strategy among purveyors of disinformation and misinformation.”

And this was a fun exchange, Trump being unable to fathom how Biden won without drawing huge crowds in the midst of a pandemic: TRUMP: How come Biden couldn’t attract 20 people for a crowd?

How come when he went to speak in different locations, nobody came to watch, but all of a sudden, he got 80 million votes? Nobody believes that, Steve.

Nobody believes that.

INSKEEP: If you’ll forgive me, maybe because the election was about you.

The interview was scheduled to last 15 minutes. But at the nine-minute mark, when Inskeep started to bring up the Capitol insurrection, Trump hung up. Inskeep exclaimed, “Whoa whoa whoa, I have one more question!” Alas, his guest had cut and run to the MAGA cocoon.

Granted, the MAGA crowd doesn’t listen to NPR or read its website.

But journalists who have a laudable bias for facts have no rational choice but to do their jobs.

As veteran Washington reporter Barton Gellman said recently, “What we’re for as journalists is truth. And what we’re for as journalists is democracy. We are unambiguously in favor of our democratic system and of allowing the people to choose their own leaders. And the conundrum is that right now we have a political party that is bowing to authoritarian forces, that is systematically lying about the political process, about the election process itself.”

The only way forward – as Inskeep demonstrated – is to hold those forces accountable.

Dick Polman, a veteran national political columnist based in Philadelphia and a Writer in Residence at the University of Pennsylvania, writes at DickPolman. net. dickpolman7@gmail.com

CORRECTIONS

Page 3

Readying airlift for reproductive rights What state will be next to fall under the Iron Curtain?

We speak here not of the ‘50s-‘60s, Commie kind.

We speak but of the ‘22 Republican kind – the 12 GOP-controlled states prepared to ban abortion as soon as the Supreme Court gives the word.

In a land based on “freedom” – a word on many a pickup truck – it’s the most oppressive thing a state can do: order a woman, once pregnant, to gestate to term with almost no exceptions.

Several nations do that: Iran, Saudi Arabia, Chile, Indonesia, Nigeria and the Philippines among them.

Most developed countries, like ours once upon a time, came to reject this oppression.

Dating back to the ‘60s, Romania banned abortion and contraception under a Communist government.

When the Iron Curtain collapsed in 1989, an estimated 170,000 deprived children were found in decrepit orphanages.

One of the first things Romanians did when the Red thumb was lifted was legalize abortion and birth control.

In a country like Com-

en without such means self-aborted or went to Young at shady back-alley providers.

People who support a Heart woman’s right to choose –

by John Young and that’s most Americans based on poll after poll – should shake out of their munist Romania, women stupor. truly were captives of the The GOP has become state. They could not flee a party diametrically opto Switzerland or France posed not only to abortion for these services. but holistic means of Fortunately our nation avoiding pregnancy, like has open highways and birth control. This was not willing organizations to the case when President help women deal with George H.W. Bush and unwanted pregnancies as many other Republicans they see fit. identified family planning With Gov. Gavin Newas a smart and sound som and key Democrats policy. leading the way, CaliforRepublicans have nia is making plans, if continued and heightened necessary, to become an their political vendetta abortion “sanctuary” – to against Planned Parenthelp women get the service hood, though the preponthere, including paying derance of what it does for air fare, lodging and helps women avoid the medical care. abortion dilemma.

With the Supreme So, what can be done Court refusing to stop for women in Texas, for Texas’ abortion ban, we instance, who need this have already seen women service? traveling out of state for the Sarah Wheat with procedure.

Planned Parenthood of This happened routinely Greater Texas said that before Roe vs. Wade, but though prohibited from of course for women who providing the service, orgacould afford a plane ticket. nizations aren’t prohibited Too often in states that from helping women get it banned abortion, womout of state.

To that end, “an incredible network of organizations is working together to help people who are traveling out of state.”

Such groups include the Austin-based Lilith Fund, Fund Texas Choice, the West Fund and the Texas Equal Access (TEA) Fund.

From these organizations a woman might get help with gas and lodging, as well as direct contact with a health center.

Add to this the possibility of plane fare from California should the Supreme Court do what most expect of it because of court picks whose ideologies on this matter do not match up with most of America’s.

Though what California has in mind – as these funds to aid women – is not the same as the Berlin airlift of 1948, which focused on food and fuel.

Nonetheless it’s a mission that, like efforts to fight Red oppression in a sad and scary time in another era, will end up on the right side of history.

Longtime newspaperman John Young lives in Colorado. jyoungcolumn@gmail.com

Does the president really know what he’s saying?

Misspeaking requires some knowledge of what Guest you’re saying. For example, Column if you meant to order a Diet Coke but ordered a regular

by Rich Coke because you didn’t Manieri specify “diet,” you would have realized, either at that moment or, when you eulogy of Sen. Bob Dole. took your first sip, that you In my career, I’ve read misspoke. from a teleprompter and In a particularly divisive, I’ve written a fair amount of Jan. 11 voting rights speech speeches. that was mostly awful for I can honestly say I never a number of reasons, Pres- said anything while reading ident Joe a prompter Biden again that wasn’t Biden, at referred to meant to Vice Presibe spoken. times, will dent KamaI freestyle during Sure, la Harris as stumbled or “President messed up speeches.

Harris.” It’s but There’s nothing words, at least the I never utfourth time tered “end” more soulBiden has or “pause” crushing for a unknowingor “take ly elevated package” speech writer the vice – all terms than to watch president. that are or I’m not were comhis or her boss sure if mon in a TV meander off anyone has news script. checked the I never said script and Constituany of those wind up in a tion to see if things not there’s some rabbit hole from because obscure I was a which there provision genius but which aubecause is no graceful tomatically I knew escape. If the promotes what I was the vice supposed to president’s president be saying. speech if a sitting I suppose president some writer writers aren’t has called could have tranquilized, the VP slipped “president” they must each “You stink!” a certain in a script be sporting a number to really of times. If blood pressure test me but, there is, we thankfully, cuff. must be getit never ting close. happened.

The Biden camp preBiden, at times, will tends not to notice the freestyle during speecherror and simply changes es. There’s nothing more the text when publishing soul-crushing for a speech the speech transcript. The writer than to watch his or worrisome thing is I don’t her boss meander off script know if Biden notices. and wind up in a rabbit Much like Ron Burgundy, hole from which there is the president will say what- no graceful escape. If the ever is in the teleprompter, president’s speech writers i.e. his “end of message” aren’t tranquilized, they regurgitation at the end of must each be sporting a speeches, the most recent blood pressure cuff. and unfortunate of which Biden isn’t the first presoccurred at the end of his ident to butcher a speech,

Any erroneous reflection upon the character, standing or reputation of any person, firm or corporation which may appear in the pages of the Hays Free Press will be corrected upon being brought to the attention of the publisher.

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make a mistake, say something stupid or outrageous.

(See also Trump, Donald.)

True, Biden and Trump are prolific, but they’re not alone.

President Warren G. Harding said, “Oftentimes, I don’t seem to grasp that I am president.” Gerald Ford reflected, “If Abraham Lincoln was alive today, he’d roll over in his grave.”

Barack Obama said there were 57 states.

Some, like Biden, are gaffe-prone. Others are masters of malaprop.

George W. Bush said his opponents “misunderestimated” him.

The point is presidents are human and fallible. But it’s reasonable to expect that a president should at least know what he’s supposed to be saying.

Biden has had held fewer news conferences and fewer media interviews at this point in his presidency than his five predecessors.

As the Associated Press recently pointed out, Biden has held nine news conferences. At this point, Barack Obama had held 27, Donald Trump 22.

There’s a reason for this.

In fact, there can be only one – Biden’s handlers don’t

trust the president enough to expose him to questions.

Why? They’re afraid of what he might say. Because he often appears disoriented, inappropriately angry, confused and tired.

A Politico poll in the fall showed that almost half of Americans were concerned about Biden’s cognition.

For some reason, Biden, unlike Trump, didn’t undergo a cognitive test during his annual exam. There’s a reason for that too, only one – his advisers don’t want the results. Otherwise, he would take the test, if for no other reason than to put Americans’ minds at ease.

This need not be a partisan issue. The American people – Republicans and Democrats alike –need to know that their president, whether they voted for him or not, is functioning on all cylinders. This is a serious issue that needs to be addressed.

End of message.

Rich Manieri is a Philadelphia-born journalist and author. He is currently a professor of journalism at Asbury University in Kentucky. manieri2@gmail.com.

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Page 4

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • January 19, 2022

Hays CISD seeking guest teachers due to shortage

BY BRITTANY ANDERSON

COVID-19 isn’t just causing shortages in hospitals and grocery stores — local schools are feeling the effects, too, as teachers and substitute teachers are out sick in record numbers due to the virus.

In a flyer posted to its Facebook page on Jan. 6, Hays CISD asked teachercertified and eligible non-teacher certified parents to step in as ‘guest teachers’ to help fill the increasing need for substitute teachers in order for classrooms and campuses to remain open.

Per the flyer, the position provides competitive compensation, access to

health insurance, ongoing training opportunities and bonus programs.

Those who apply have to pass a fingerprint criminal background check and complete an orientation.

Additionally, if a principal knows and recommends an applicant, the district can waive the requirement of 30 or more college credit hours.

The demand for substitute teachers has maxed out the district’s sub pool, prompting this request.

According to HCISD chief communication officer Tim Savoy, in a normal year, the district has about 500 people in its pool of substitute teachers. The district

‘Pre-pandemic’ — the district typically saw about 180 to 185 requests for subs each day in the week after Christmas break. This year, that number of requests increased to 250 to 289 per day. As of Jan. 14, Savoy said the number of sub requests had increased to 445.

The district was only able to fill 43% of the positions with subs, with the rest being covered by campus and central office staff.

started the 2021-2022 school year with only 100 subs due to the Delta variant, but have since increased the pool of approved subs to about 300.

Due to the Omicron

variant, however, the demand for subs has also greatly increased. Savoy said that in a normal year — ‘pre-pandemic’ — the district typically saw about 180 to 185 requests for subs each day in the

week after Christmas break. This year, that number of requests increased to 250 to 289 per day.

As of Jan. 14, Savoy said the number of sub requests had increased to 445. The district was only able to fill 43% of the positions with subs, with the rest being covered by campus and central office staff, as well as teachers being paid during their off-duty periods if they wanted to fill in.

There are also 537 active student cases and 102 active staff cases in the district as of Jan. 14, according to HCISD’s COVID dashboard data. Despite the sharp increase in daily reported cases after the recent holiday break, Savoy

said that guest teachers are helping the district keep schools open — something that many parents and students have been vocal about being important — and so far, 16 parents have applied.

Savoy said it’s important to note that while it’s challenging to have the increased teacher absences, it’s a sign that people who have either tested positive, are showing symptoms or have come in close contact with a positive case are heeding the call to quarantine and doing their part in keeping the virus from spreading.

For more information on how to apply to be a guest teacher, visit www.hayscisd.net/ applynewsub.

Hays County names new Agriculture Extension Agent

BY MEGAN WEHRING

Michael Haynes, HAYS COUNTY — District Hays County has a new Extension agent for agriculture and Adminisnatural resources. trator, “as The Hays County his innovaCommissioners Court tion is one unanimously approved that has Texas A&M AgriLife really led MCCOY Extension Service’s our district hiring of Aaron McCoy and many of our state as the Agriculture and efforts. We are excited to Natural Resources (ANR) have him as part of the Extension Agent for the Hays County team.” county. McCoy was the McCoy comes from finalist chosen for the Caldwell County, where position by the Extension he served as the county’s Administrator.

Extension Agent for 4-H “We are very excited and Agriculture for two to have him here,” said years.

“I grew up very close to this community,” McCoy said before the commissioners, “right outside of Burnet, Texas.

So this community really does mean a lot to me. I really love 4-H, agriculture and helping people.

Combining all of those, extension was the perfect profession for me.”

Informing and educating the public are two primary roles that county extension agents undertake, according to Texas A&M AgriLife Extension.

They also work with other people including local committees, fellow

agents, businesses and school districts.

Agricultural agents specifically have experience in the production, processing and distribution of agricultural products, conservation and environmental concerns, marketing and economics. They work primarily with farmers and ranchers.

“I want to continue to address the urbanization of the community.

I [also] want to address our small acreage owners and our large acreage owners to make sure they are adequately informed

on proper agricultural methods.”

With his own experience working in the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension field, commissioner Walt Smith encouraged McCoy to not lose sight of the importance of

connecting with the youth and 4-H programs.

“I would highly encourage you to do as much outreach as possible as soon as you can after the first of the year to those clubs and organizations,” Smith said.

For all the latest Hays County news, visit

HaysFreePress.com

www.

www.HaysNewsDispatch.com Have the Hays Free Press or News-Dispatch delivered to your home for only $42 a year.

Call 512-268-7862 or email paper@haysfreepress.com

Buda, Texas • 15300 S. IH-35 • 312-1615

Debbie Thames, Agent 251 N. FM 1626, Bldg. 2, Ste. C, Buda, Texas 78610 312-1917

Sudoku Solution

Come worship with us

ASSEMBLIES OF GOD

CHURCH OF CHRIST

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

Faith Assembly of God 1030 Main St., Buda

Buda-Kyle Church of Christ 3.5 miles south of Buda on FM 2770

Monte del Olivar Christian Center 2400 FM 150 E., Kyle

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Southern Hills Church of Christ 3740 FM 967, Buda

The Connection Church 1235 S. Loop 4, Buda

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Antioch Community Church Old Black Colony Rd., Buda

First Baptist Church-Buda 104 San Marcos St., Buda First Baptist Church-Kyle 300 W. Center St., Kyle Hays Hills Baptist Church 1401 FM 1626, Buda Sledge Chapel Missionary Baptist Church 709 Sewell, Kyle

Southeast Baptist Church 5020 Turnersville Rd., Creedmoor Manchaca Baptist Church Lowden Lane & FM 1626 Immanuel Baptist Church 4000 E. FM 150, 4 miles east of Kyle

Sudoku Puzzle, from page 6

Center Union Baptist Church Goforth Rd., Buda Primera Mision Bautista Mexicana Kyle

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Baptist Church of Driftwood 13540 FM 150 W. CATHOLIC Santa Cruz Catholic Church 1100 Main Street, Buda

Texas Crossword, from page 6

St. Elizabeth’s Episcopal Church 725 RR 967, Buda St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church RR 3237 (Wimberley Rd.), Kyle St. Alban’s Episcopal Church 11819 IH-35 South JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses FM 2770, Kyle Jehovah’s Witnesses South 10802 Manchaca Rd., Manchaca LUTHERAN Living Word Lutheran ELCA 2315 FM 967, Buda Redeeming Grace Lutheran LCMS FM 1626 & Manchaca Rd., Manchaca Resurrection Church, CLBA 401 FM 967, Buda St. John Lutheran Church 9865 Camino Real, Uhland The Well Buda Buda United Methodist Church San Marcos & Elm St., Buda

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203 Railroad Street Downtown Buda Pharmacy 312-2111 Fountain 312-2172

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New Life Christian Church 2315 FM 967, Buda

Manchaca United Methodist Church FM 1626 & Manchaca Rd., Manchaca

St. John’s Presbyterian Church 12420 Hewitt Ln., Manchaca

Iglesia Israelita Casa de Dios 816 Green Pastures Dr., Kyle

Driftwood United Methodist Church RR 150 at County Road 170

First Presbyterian Church 410 W. Hutchison, San Marcos, TX 78666

New Life Sanctuary Kyle Science Hall Elementary 1510 Bebee Rd. PRESBYTERIAN

First Baptist Church

A loving & caring Southern Baptist Church 104 S. San Marcos Street, Buda Buddy Johnson, Pastor • 295-2161 Sunday School...........................................9:30 a.m.

Morning Worship....................................10:45 a.m.

Wednesday Bible Study/Youth Activities...6:00 p.m.

AWANA’s (Wednesday)..........................6:00 p.m.

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New Covenant Community Church 1019 Main Street, Buda (in Dance Unlimited)

St. Michael’s Catholic Church S. Old Spanish Trail, Uhland

Adult (including an 8:30 a.m. early bird class), teen, children’s classes * Children’s worship Professionally-staffed nursery & pre-school

Providing you with your most important local news for Kyle, Buda and surrounding communities

Kingdom United Christian Church 100 Madison Way, Buda

Kyle United Methodist Church Sledge & Lockhart St., Kyle

9:30 a.m. Classic Service 10:45 a.m. Contemporary service

Hays Free Press

Completed & Perfected Faith Church Tobias Elementary Cafeteria, FM 150, Kyle

St. Anthony Marie Claret Church 801 N. Burleson, Kyle

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4000 E. HWY 290

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • January 19, 2022

Page 5

Jockey suffers career-threatening spill

N

o one who saw Willie Shoemaker take Texas that terrible tumble at Santa Anita Park on History Jan. 23, 1968 would have by Bartee Haile believed the tough little Texan would ever ride in another horse race.

Then at age 10 he moved Life had always been to El Monte, California a struggle for Billie Lee Shoemaker since the day outside Los Angeles to live with his father and he was born at Fabens, his new wife.

Texas downriver from El In high school Bill did Paso. The doctor who denot let his size stop him livered the three-pound from trying out for every baby in August 1931 presport, even football and dicted he would be dead basketball. The fierce by morning. competitor finally made According to family the boxing and wrestling folklore, Bill’s grandteams mother and won wrapped a Golden him in In high school Gloves blankets Willie Shoemaker title. and for A classextra did not let his size mate, warmth stop him for trying who placed the fragile out for every sport dated a jockey at bundle on even football and nearby the oven Santa door. A basketball. The Anita, relative fierce competitor casually who saw suggestthe infant finally made ed Bill two the boxing and ought to months try horse later exwrestling teams racing. claimed, and won a Golden Halfway “You through mean Gloves title. a guided that’s a tour of baby? Oh, the track, the wide-eyed my God! He looks like a 14-year-old was hooked little rat!

In truth Bill was unusu- and dropped out of school to devote every ally small. Although his waking hour to his chofather and mother were sen profession. normal height, 5-footBill’s apprentice debut 11 and 5-4 respectively, their grown son stood an on Mar. 19, 1949 was marred by the hardball inch shy of five feet and tactics of a famous jockey weighed less than 100 who cut him off coming pounds. out of the gate. Buried in After his parents divorced in 1934, Bill stayed the back of the pack, the nervous novice watched for awhile with an uncle on a ranch near Abilene. helplessly as Johnny

Bill "Willie" Shoemaker guides his mount War Allied to the victory circle after winning the first race at Hollywood Park in Inglewood, California, on May 27, 1981. Shoemaker, who had the second-highest number of victories in thoroughbred racing history, died Sunday, Oct. 12, 2003.

He was 72. Shoemaker died in his sleep at his suburban home near Santa Anita racetrack in California, according to longtime friend and trainer Paddy Gallagher. (AP Photo/Rasmussen)

Longden chalked up another victory.

A month and a day later, Bill broke the ice with his first winner. Friends and admirers cleaned up on the 9-1 long shot but not the ecstatic Texan.

He did not know how to place a bet.

The teenager ended a sensational rookie season with 219 wins, good enough for second place in the national rankings.

Off to a strong start in 1951, Bill challenged veteran rider Joe Culmone for the top spot. Their thrilling duel ended in a dead heat as each posted 388 first-place finishes, the most by an American jockey in 44 years.

By 1953 The Shoe was

already in a class by himself winning a record 485 races, 135 more than runner-up Bill Hartack.

He duplicated the feat in 1954 with 380 victories, far short of the incredible mark of the previous year but again well ahead of perennial rival Hartack.

During a get-acquainted blitz of the eastern tracks in 1951, Bill met the aging legend Eddie Arcaro. Four years later, the genial and generous Arcaro, who gladly acknowledged the youngster as “the new champ,” recommended the dazzling newcomer to Rex Ellsworth, who promptly signed Bill to ride his entry in the 1955 Kentucky Derby.

With Shoe at the controls, Swaps captured the Churchill Downs classic beating the favorite Nashua – and Eddie Arcaro – by a length and a half.

In a nationally televised match race that summer, Arcaro turned the tables in what Shoemaker humbly described as “a lesson from the master.”

Bill should have added a second Derby to his list of accomplishments in 1957, but the most embarrassing mistake of his career cost him the race. Misjudging the finish line, he pulled up too early on Gallant Man allowing Hartack and Iron Liege to win by a nose.

Prior to the fateful fall at Santa Anita in January

1968, Shoemaker had survived his share of racetrack mishaps without serious injury. But his usual luck deserted him on this frightening occasion.

A reckless apprentice, who ironically died in a similar spill seven years later, caused a multi-horse pileup. As Bill’s mount struggled to his feet, the animal stepped on his right thigh shattering the bone. At 37 his racing days appeared to be over.

But guts and determination made the critical difference. Thirteen months later, Shoemaker returned to Santa Anita for a dramatic comeback, winning three out of three contests. After that unforgettable performance, no one could doubt that he was better than ever.

Bill Shoemaker stayed in the saddle another 21 years and set horse racing records once thought impossible. His 8,824 wins were a record at the time and the same for his amazing 263 victories in events with purses of $100,000 or more. And how can anyone hope to top his 1986 Kentucky Derby triumph at the ripe old age of 54, which he called his single most satisfying moment?

Jockeys may come and go, but no one will ever fill The Shoe’s shoes.

“Unforgettable Texans” brings to life the once famous people no one remembers today. Order your copy for $24.00 (tax and shipping included) by mailing a check to Bartee Haile, P.O. Box 130011, Spring, TX 77393.

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Page 6

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • January 19, 2022

Classifieds EMPLOYMENT

PUBLIC NOTICES

New year, new career!

Up to

$8,000

JOB FAIR

NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS RFP NO. 2022-01 WATER & WASTEWATER IMPACT FEE UPDATE

The City of Kyle will accept sealed Proposals for Water Bonus *selec and Wastewater Impact Fee t posit * io ns/e apply Update until 2:00 P.M., – con xclusions tact H R February 16, 2022, in the City’s Engineering Department.

Proposals received after this time will not be considered.

Join the TDS family. We offer competitive pay, Three (3) complete bound great benefits, paid leave and paid holidays. copies and one (1) electronic We’re hiring for most positions, including: copy (flash drive) of the qualifications are required.

• Parts Clerk • Concrete Workers Proposals are to be delivered • Heavy Equipment Operators • Route Auditors by 2:00 p.m., February 16, • Drivers • Customer Care Reps, 2022 to: • Mechanics and more!

Leon Barba, P .E. • Excavation Laborers City Engineer City of Kyle City Hall 100 W. Center Street Kyle, TX 78640 The complete submittals shall be enclosed in an enveApply at TexasDisposal.com or lope and plainly marked on the outside of the envelope call 512.329.1778 for more information or on any carrier’s envelope: RFP No. 2022-01 Impact Fee Update Proposal specifications Join theCOUNSELORS TDS Family. We offer competitive pay, DIRECT CARE may be secured from the City benefits, structure, paid training/leave/holidays.

Offe of Kyle (City) website at the Provide positivegreat role modeling, and rifollowing ng u link: https://www. supervision to adolescent boys.for No most exp. required, We’re hiring positions, including: cityotkyle.com/rfps p to We train comprehensively. Pay starting at $12 per The City reserves the right • Drivers hour for flexible 8 & 16 hr shift schedules. to negotiate with any and all for Health/life/dental insurance after 60 days. Min. • Mechanics persons or firms. The City sele requirements: Must be 21 yrs old, HS/GED, clean ct p also reserves the right to • Equipment Operators osit any or all submittals, TDL, clean criminal history, pre-employment TB On- reject ion * • screen.

Excavation Laborers skin test, and drug Growing (20+ year old) Sitor oin the TDS Family. We offer competitive pay, s any submittal to accept I n e t • Concrete Workers non-profit organization. www.pegasusschool.net. erv deemed most advantageous, iew eat benefits,Call paid training/leave/holidays.

(512)432-1678 for further information.

Participating orsto waive any irregulari• Route Auditors Texas Newspapers ties or informalities in the e’re hiring for most positions, including: • Customer Care Reps, and more! submittal received, and to revise the process schedule Drivers Regional as circumstances arise. advertising Mechanics Leon Barba, P .E. Join the TDS Family. We offer competitive pay, starts at $250 City Engineer Equipment Operators great benefits, paid training/leave/holidays.

Off per week.

Hiring

Saturday, Jan. 29, 2022

JOB FAIR

10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Evo Entertainment Kyle 3200 Kyle Crossing, Kyle TX 78640

JOB FAIR

Saturday, May 22, 2021 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

JOB FAIR Saturday, May 22, 2021 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Evo Entertainment Kyle 3200 Kyle Crossing, Kyle TX 78640 Texas Press Statewide Advertising Kyle Network

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o for Apply at TexasDisposal.com or call 512.329.1778 s e l for moreeinformation. ct p er*iCertain osit exclusions apply. ngO We’re hiringLaborers for most positions, including: Excavation upn For more information, t-o Site ions *email NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE I david@haysfreepress.com n • Drivers t Concrete Workers ervor call 512-268-7862 Chapter 59 Texas Propfor i • Mechanics e erty Code. River Road Self w s elec s Route Auditors • Equipment Operators t po sitio OnCustomer Care Reps, and– Join more!

• Excavation Laborers We’re growing the Falcon Family! ns * Si

$8k

PHASE 2 GRAND OPENING LAND SALE! Sat & Sun, Jan 29 & 30 ALL NEW INVENTORY! Apply at TexasDisposal.com or call 512.329.1778 Inte t • Concrete Workers Attractive Salary & Benefit Packages rvie e ws • Route Auditors *Branch Manager • Customer Care Reps, and more!

10 ACRE HOMESITE only 99,900

*Newfor Accounts Representative more information. *Teller Apply at TexasDisposal.com or call * Certain exclusions apply. 512.329.1778 Visit www.falconbank.com for for more information.

5 Acre Homesites * Certain exclusions apply. job requirements and application

Mail to: Falcon Bank, Attn: Rolando Negrette 1795 Main Street, Buda, TX 78610

For more info call us at (512) 295-1200

Email application to humanresources@falconbank.com EEO / AAP Employer

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5 Acres & New Barndo* Shell only $119,900

· Near Stephenville · Fiber-optic internet EXCELLENT LAND FINANCING 877-701-3337 x633 | RanchesatDeerCrossing.com *Price is for new 1,000 sq. ft. barndominium shell to be built on 5 AC homesite at The Ranches at Deer Crossing.

Storage will conduct a Public Sale to the highest bidder for cash on their premises. This sale is being listed below.

The company reserves the right to reject any bid and withdraw any from the sale at any time.

Date: February 5, 2022 (Saturday) River Road Self Storage wishes to avail themselves of the Texas Provision of Chapter 59 of the Texas Property Code. This sale is listed below.

Time: 9:00a.m.

Location: 880 River Road, San Marcos, Texas 78666 Unit #062 – E. Coronado – furniture, fishing poles, car jack, weights, dresser Unit #102 – M. Lopez – push mowers, totes, tools Unit #162 – V. Vasquez totes Unit #166 – J. Miranda – cooler, fishing poles, fish tanks, dresser, boxes Unit #177 – R. Rodriguez – mountain bike, décor, totes Unit #193 – L. Alonzo – shelving unit, Christmas tree, speakers, heater, chairs, boxes Unit #287 – R. Cameron – TREK bikes, spare wheels, tv’s, boxes Unit #342 – S. Gonzalez – snowboards, dresser, tool boxes, floor jack, couches, dining table Unit #348 – J. Hanselamn – drum chair, small table with chair, shelves, tote Unit #386 – B. Connor – ladders, tools, TREK bicycle, furniture, boxes Unit #407 – D. Richison-Golden – totes, weights, wooden fraternity letters Unit #441 – R. Villalpando – tool boxes, 26” tires with rims, car dolly, car speakers, pool table Unit #445 – B. Connor – hunting stuff, fishing poles, roll top desk, art décor, fridge

HAYS CISD IS REQUESTING PROPOSALS RFP #18-112102AS CONCRETE WORK Hays CISD is Requesting Proposals for RFP #18112102AS Concrete Work.

Proposals will be accepted until 02-04-2022 at 2:00 p.m. local time. Specifications are available in the HCISD Purchasing Office (512- 268-2141 ext. 46035) between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Proposal responses must be returned to the HCISD Purchasing Office 21003 IH 35, Kyle, TX 78640, by the date and time indicated above. Late Bids will be returned unopened.

The HCISD Board of Trustees reserves the right to reject any and/or all bids and waive all formalities in the bid process.

NOTICE OF SALE Morningstar Storage wishes to avail themselves of the Texas Provision of chapter 59 of the Texas Property Code by conducting a Public Sale to the highest bidder for Chas on their premises. This sale is listed below. The company reserves the right to reject any bid and withdraw any from the sale at any time.

Date : 01/27/2022 Time: 10:00 AM Location: Storage Auctions.com Unit: 1042 - Douglas Degirolamo, Furniture, tools, stacking chairs, wood, paint, wire, lamps.

Unit : 2148 – Robert Griffith, Furniture, pictures, boxes, totes, Misc, BBQ pit, clothes , computer Unit: 2072 – Ian Robles, Table, tools, clothes, home décor Unit: 3158 – Danniela DeLeon, Sectional Couch

Pre-Grand Opening Land Sale!

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The Texas Crossword and Sudoku Puzzle sponsored by

D & D Insurance Agency Serving Hays County since 1983 “Call us for all of your insurance needs” Angie Dahl

Wimberley: 512-847-5549 or 512-847-9325 Dripping Springs: 512-894-2286

Sudoku puzzle courtesy of www.4puz.com

See solutions on page 4

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • January 19, 2022

Page 7

Classifieds PUBLIC NOTICES NOTICE TO BIDDERS

Sealed bids for "Subdivision Improvements” for Driftwood Subdivision Phase 2, Hays County, Texas, addressed to the Owner, Driftwood Golf Club Development Inc, on behalf of Driftwood Conservation District (“DISTRICT”) will be received at the office of Atwell, LLC, 805 Las Cimas Parkway, Building III, Suite 310, Austin, Texas, 78746, until 2:00 p.m., local time, Wednesday, February 2nd, 2022, and then publicly opened. Starting Wednesday, January 19th, 2022, Invitations to Bidders and other documents will be available on an FTP site provided by the Engineer, Atwell, LLC, 805 Las Cimas Parkway, Building III, Suite 310, Austin, Texas, 78746, or may be examined at the Engineer's office. Please contact the Engineer by email, cschedler@atwellgroup.com to check on availability of plans and specifications.

The proposed project improvements include the following: right of way preparation; roadway construction; storm sewer improvements; water system improvements; wastewater system improvements; water quality pond construction; drainage improvements; underground electrical service installation; and necessary erosion and sedimentation controls.

A mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will be held at 2:00 p.m., local time, Wednesday, January 26th, 2022 at the office of the Engineer. Attendance is mandatory, and no bid will be opened unless the bidder or its representative was present at the Pre-Bid conference.

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

Sealed bids for "Subdivision Improvements” for Driftwood Golf & Ranch Club Phase 3, Hays County, Texas, addressed to the Owner, Driftwood Golf Club Development Inc, on behalf of Driftwood Conservation District (“DISTRICT”) will be received at the office of Atwell, LLC, 805 Las Cimas Parkway, Building III, Suite 310, Austin, Texas, 78746, until 2:00 p.m., local time, Wednesday, February 2nd, 2022, and then publicly opened. Starting Wednesday, January 19th, 2022, Invitations to Bidders and other documents will be available on an FTP site provided by the Engineer, Atwell, LLC, 805 Las Cimas Parkway, Building III, Suite 310, Austin, Texas, 78746, or may be examined at the Engineer's office. Please contact the Engineer by email, cschedler@atwellgroup.com to check on availability of plans and specifications.

The proposed project improvements include the following: right of way preparation; roadway construction; storm sewer improvements; water system improvements; wastewater system improvements; water

quality pond construction; drainage improvements; underground electrical service installation; and necessary erosion and sedimentation controls.

A mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will be held at 2:00 p.m., local time, Wednesday, January 26th, 2022 at the office of the Engineer. Attendance is mandatory, and no bid will be opened unless the bidder or its representative was present at the Pre-Bid conference.

REQUEST FOR BIDS LEHMAN HS RENOVATIONS - BID PKG. 2

Bartlett Cocke General contractors, Construction Manager-at-Risk, for: Lehman HS Renovations - Bid Pkg. 2, is requesting competitive proposals from subcontractors and suppliers.

Subcontractor and supplier proposals will be received via Fax to (512) 326-4339 or (512) 3263990 Fax or via email to bidaus@bartlettcocke.com no later than 2:00:00 PM on 2/8/2022. Any proposals received after this time will not be accepted.

Electronic copies of the proposal documents may be obtained from Bartlett Cocke or viewed at local and online planrooms. Contact Stephon Hill via email shill@ bartlettcocke.com or phone (512) 326-4223 Phone to make arrangements.

Small, Woman Owned, Disadvantaged, HUB, HUBZone, 8(a), Minority, and all similar firms are encouraged to submit proposals on this project.

Bartlett Cocke General Contractors is an equal opportunity (EEO) employer.

PUBLISHED NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN to all interested persons that the City of Creedmoor, Texas discuss and work on the Possible coming subdivision in Creedmoor located at 10912 FM 1625.

City of Creedmoor Council will meet on February 17, 2022 at the Creedmoor City Hall at 12513 FM 1625 Creedmoor, Texas at 7:05 pm.

All persons interested in the above have the right to appear and be heard.

By the order of the City Council of Creedmoor, Texas, Robert R.Wilhite Administrator.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Notice is hereby given that Original Letters of Testamentary for the Estate of Gabriel E. Hernandez, Deceased, were issued on the 12th day of January, 2022, in Cause No. 210465-P, pending in the County Court at Law of Hays County, Texas, to Robert Ray Hernandez, Independent Executor of the Estate of Gabriel E. Hernandez.

David H. Morris Morris & Wise Attorneys at Law 1921 Corporate Drive,

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR THE HAYS CISD 2020-2021 ANNUAL REPORT HAYS CISD

The Hays Consolidated Independent School District will conduct a public hearing for the 2020 – 2021 Annual Report on January 24, 2022, as part of the regularly scheduled meeting of the Hays CISD Board of Trustees.

The meeting will begin at 5:30 PM at the Historic Buda Elementary Upper Campus – Kunkel Room located at 300 San Marcos St., Buda, TX 78610. Texas Education Code B39.053 requires each school district's board of trustees to publish an annual performance report that includes the TAPR report; campus performance objectives; a report of violent or criminal incidents; and information received under the Texas Education Code B51.403(e) from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

AVISO DE AUDIENCIA PÚBLICA PARA EL INFORME DE RENDIMIENTO ACADÉMICO DE TEXAS HAYS CISD

El Distrito Escolar de Hays (HCISD) llevará acabo una audencia pública para el 2020 – 2021 informe de Rendimiento Académico de Tejas (TAPR) el 24 de enero, 2022, como parte de la reunión regularmente programada de la mesa directiva de Hays CISD. La reunion comenzará a las 5:30 pm en la Historic Buda Elementary Upper Campus – Kunkel Room ubicada en el300 San Marcos St., Buda, TX 78610. El Código de Educación de Tejas B39.053 requiere que la mesa directiva de cada distrito escolar publique un informe anual de desempeño que incluya la información de TAPR; objetivos de rendimiento de cada escuela; un informe de incidentes violentos o criminales; e información recibida bajo el Código de Educación de Tejas B51.403(e) de la Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

Ste. 102 San Marcos, Texas 78666 All persons having claims against this Estate, which is currently being administered, are required to present themselves within the time and in the manner prescribed by law.

DATED this the 14th day of January, 2022.

Respectfully submitted DAVID H. MORRIS State Bar No. 14476600 Morris and Wise Attorneys At Law 1921 Corporate Drive, Ste. 102 San Marcos, Texas 78666 (512) 396-7525 (512) 396-7599 Fax david@morrisandwise.com

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby Given to all interested persons, that: The City of Kyle shall hold a public hearing to consider a Conditional Use Permit for the purposes of allowing a height increase for future buildings located at 24801 IH-35 (Ord. No. 1161, Sec. 53-1047(12)).

The Planning and Zoning Commission may recommend, and the City Council may consider acting on the stated amendments.

A public hearing will be held by the Planning and Zoning Commission on Tuesday, February 8, 2022 at 6:30 P.M. A public hearing will be held by the Kyle City Council on Tuesday, February 15, 2022 at 7:00 P.M. Kyle City Hall Council Chambers 100 W Center St., Kyle, Texas Planning Dept.

(512) 262-3959 Publication Date: January 19, 2022

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

2022 at 7:00 P.M. Kyle City Hall Council Chambers 100 W Center St., Kyle, Texas Planning Dept.

(512) 262-3959 Publication Date: January 19, 2022

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Of property to satisfy a landlord’s lien.

Sale to be held online at Storagetreasures.com by competitive bid.

Anytime Storage, LLC 2401 Windy Hill Rd. Kyle, TX 78640 Will be ending on or after February 8, 2022 at 11 AM. Cleanup deposit is required. Seller reserves the right to withdraw the property at any time before the sale.

The property contents of all storage unit(s) sold at this sale are purchased “as is” “where is” for CASH/ CREDIT. Unit items sold for cash to the highest bidder. All Units have miscellaneous household items, boxes, furniture.

Property includes the contents of spaces of the following tenant (s).

CAPRICA PRIKRYL - tire rim, barstools; DAIMEAN JOE CORREA tripod, AC; EDDIE SOTO - TVs, Vacuum, Printer

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Of property to satisfy a landlord’s lien.

Sale to be held Online at Storagetreasures.com by competitive bid.

Anytime Storage, LLC 880 Windy Hill Rd. Kyle, TX 78640 Will be ending on or after February 8, 2022 at 11 AM. Cleanup deposit is required. Seller reserves the right to withdraw the property at any time before the sale.

The property contents of all storage unit(s) sold at this sale are purchased “as is” “where is” for CASH/ CREDIT. Unit items sold for cash to the highest bidder. All Units have miscellaneous household items, boxes, furniture.

Property includes the contents of spaces of the following tenant (s).

CAREY BARRERA bench, bed, rims, washer, fridge; GAGE FOULOIS mattresses, lamp; TIFFANY ODOM mattresses, lamp, file cabinet, office

LEGAL NOTICE

Application is being made with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for a Wine and Malt Beverage Retail Dealer’s Off-Premise Permit by Dolgencorp of Texas, Inc. d/b/a Dollar General Store #22772 located at 1569 Old Goforth Rd, Buda, Hays County, TX 78610. Officers of said Corporation are Steven R. Deckard, CEO, John Garratt, CFO, and Emily C. Taylor, Secretary.

INVITATION FOR BIDS

OVERVIEW AND PROJECT INFORMATION Following is a summary of information for this Project. Bidder is cautioned to refer to other sections of the Project Manual, Drawings and Addenda (Bid Documents) for further details.

The City of Kyle, hereafter called OWNER, is requesting sealed written Bids for furnishing all labor, materials, equipment, supervision, and incidentals, and for performing all Work required for the following: Project: Indian Paintbrush Lift Station Improvements Located at: 285 Peppergrass Cove, Kyle, Texas 78640 The Work consists of lift station improvements (pumps, wet well, valve vault, odor control equipment, electrical components, piping, fittings and valves, and instruments) and approximately 600 linear feet of HDPE, installed by pipe bursting. Other work includes site piping, paving, grading, fencing and slope protection.

BID DOCUMENTS Bid Documents, including Drawings and Technical Specifications, will be on file at the following location:

Notice is hereby Given to www.civcastusa.com, all interested persons, that: Project ID – “INDIAN PAINTBRUSH LIFT STATION IMPROVEMENTS” The City of Kyle shall hold All addenda and answers to Bidders’ questions will also be posted to Civcast at the a public hearing to consider above link and Project ID. an amendment to Sec. 53-1230 (Zoning), to restrict SUBMISSION OF BIDS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO ALL certain uses, and amend the Online bidding will be utilized via CivCast at www.civcastusa.com, Project ID – “INDIAN associated zoning use chart.

INTERESTED PERSONS, THAT: PAINTBRUSH LIFT STATION IMPROVEMENTS.” Online bid services will open for bidding on The Planning and Wednesday January 12, 2022 and close on Thursday February 10, 2022 at 2:00 P.M. CST. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO ALL Zoning Commission may Follow submittal instructions on www.civcastusa.com. Hard copies will not be accepted for City atoftheKyle a Training publicRoom hearing INTERESTED PERSONS, recommend, and the City thisTHAT: solicitation. Bid results will beThe read aloud Publicshall Workshold Building at Council may consider acting 520 E. RR 150, Kyle, Texas 78640on at 2:00 P.M. on day of deadline. a request by Travis Sawvell, (Z-21-0089) on the stated amendments. to rezone approximately 8.32 acres of land The City of Kyle a public hearing A public hearing will beshall hold PRE-BID CONFERENCE held Pre-Bid will be held on Thursday, 27th, located 2022 from ‘RS’ to ‘MXD’ forJanuary property at o nby athe rPlanning e q u e sand t b y A mAanon-mandatory nda Brow n , Conference Zoning Commission on 2:00pm, at the City of Kyle Public Works Department Training Room, 520 E. RR 150, Kyle, Kyle Marketplace Sec. 2 Lot A &is not 19.48 (Z-21-0093) to2022 rezone approximately 5.13 Texas. The Pre-Bid Conference will be followed by an optional site visit.

Attendance Tuesday, February 8, at mandatory.

6:30 P.M. of land from ‘A’ to acres of land from ‘RS’ to ‘MXD’ for acres ‘W’ for property A public hearing will be property atPRIOR KyleTO Marketplace located at 1351 Bunton Creek Rd, Hays ALL BIDS ANDin COMPLIANCE PLANS NOTlocated RECEIVED THE DATE ANDSec. TIME2 held by the Kyle City Council SET FORTH ABOVE WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED FOR CONSIDERATION. onCounty, Tuesday, Texas.

February 15, Block F, in Hays County, Texas.

Public Notice Notice of Public Hearing

The Planning and Zoning Commission may Public Hearing recommend,Notice and ofthe City Council may Notice is hereby Given to all interested persons,district that: consider, assigning any zoning which or amore The Cityisofequivalent Kyle shall hold publicrestrictive. hearing on a

request by Amanda Brown, (Z-21-0093) to rezone 5.13 acres of land from to ‘W’ Aapproximately public hearing will be ‘A’ held byfor the property located at 1351 Bunton Creek Rd, in Hays Planning and Zoning Commission on County, Texas.

Tuesday, February 8, 2022 at 6:30 P.M.

The Planning and Zoning Commission may recommend, the City Council may consider, assigning any zoning Aandpublic hearing will be held by the Kyle district which is equivalent or more restrictive.

Public Notice Notice of Public Hearing

The Planning and Zoning Commission may Public Hearing recommend,Notice andof the City Council may Notice is hereby Given to all interested persons,district that: consider, assigning any zoning The Cityisofequivalent Kyle shall hold public restrictive. hearing on a which oramore

request by Travis Sawvell, (Z-21-0089) to rezone approximately 8.32 acres of land from ‘RS’ to ‘MXD’ A public located hearing be held for property at Kylewill Marketplace Sec. 2 by Lot Athe & 19.48 acres and of land Zoning from ‘RS’ toCommission ‘MXD’ for property Planning on located at Kyle Marketplace Sec. 2 Block F, in Hays Tuesday, February 8, 2022 at 6:30 P.M. County, Texas.

The Planning and Zoning Commission may recom-

City Council on Tuesday, February 15, 2022 public P.M. hearing will be held by the Planning and atA 7:00

A public hearing willmay be consider, held by the Kyle mend, and the City Council assigning City Council onwhich Tuesday, February 2022 any zoning district is equivalent or more15, restrictive. at 7:00 P.M.

This meeting will take place at 100 W. A publicStreet, hearing will be held by the Kyle City Council Center Kyle, Texas 78640

Zoning Commission on Tuesday, February 8, 2022 at This meeting will take place at 100 W. 6:30 P.M. Center Street, Kyle, Texas 78640.

This meeting will& take place atTenorio 100 W. Center Street, Owner: Abel Erlinda Kyle, Texas 78640 Agent: Amanda Brown Owner: Abel & Erlinda Tenorio 214-695-9219

Owner: CSW KC II, LLC This meeting will take place at 100 W. Center Street, Agent: Travis Kyle, Texas 78640. Sawvell 512-810-8154 Owner: CSW KC II, LLC

Publication Date: January 19, 2022 Publication Date: January 19, 2022 Z-21-0093

512-810-8154 Publication Date: January 19, 2022 Publication Date: January 19, 2022 Z-21-0089

Zoning Commission on Tuesday, February 8, 2022 at 6:30 P.M. on Tuesday, February 15, 2022 at 7:00 P.M.

Agent: Amanda Brown 214-695-9219 Z-21-0093

A public hearing will be held by the Planning and

A public hearing will be held by the Kyle City Council on Tuesday, February 15, 2022 at 7:00 P.M.

Agent: Travis Sawvell Z-21-0089

Page 8

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • January 19, 2022

37th AnnuAl DeWitt County All BreeDs Bull & FemAle sAle

Sat., Jan. 29 Cuero livestock Commission Co. Bulls sell at 11 am Females sell immediately following

approx. 30 BullS and 250 FemaleS Offering the following BUlls

PHOTOS BY MOSES LEOS III/HAYS CISD

Nail-biting win for Jags over tigers

Last Wednesday, the Johnson Jaguars girls basketball team defeated the Dripping Springs Tigers in a dramatic 56-55 home win.

The victory was spearheaded by a go-ahead three-pointer by junior Taylor Snyder with approximately 15 seconds left (top left) that ultimately sealed the deal for the Jaguars. Jaguars freshman Aniyah Soto (right photo) lowers her shoulder and attempts to drive toward the bucket as a Dripping Springs Tiger defends the paint.

Angus • Charolais • Brahman Polled Hereford • Beefmaster Females Featuring Bred, Pairs, and Opens

F1 Braford (many Tiger Stripes) • Brangus • Brangus Baldy Brahman • Angus • Other Crossbreds Sponsored by the DeWitt County Purebred Breeders Assoc. and the DeWitt County Beef and Forage Committee. For more information: Anthony Netardus 115 N. Gonzales, Suite E, Cuero, TX 77954 • 361-275-0816 If unable to attend the sale in person, cattle sale viewing and bidding can be done on “Cattle In Motion” (cattleinmotion.com)

Hays CISD Bond Props Continued from pg. 1

will take place on Jan. 19 at 6 p.m. in the Lehman High School cafeteria. The second public forum will take place on Jan. 20 at 6 p.m. in the Kunkel Room at the Historic Buda Elementary School.

Beginning in August 2021, the FBOC (Facilities and Bond Oversight Committee) held a series of meetings to discuss the need for a future bond election. During its Dec. 1 meeting, the committee

reached a consensus on what to recommend for the package.

During the Dec. 13 board meeting, trustees unanimously approved to continue the bond development process regarding FBOC’s recommendations, part of which includes holding public forums.

The board may decide to call for the bond election during the Jan. 31 business meeting, or at a special meeting prior

to Feb. 18, the statutory deadline to call for an election. If called, voters in the district will decide whether to approve the bond on May 7.

The board and FBOC also created an online way to comment about the bond election if you are unable to attend either public forum. Visit www. hayscisd.net/bond2022 to provide feedback online or more information about the proposed bond.

Jeffrey is a male, 2-year-old Domestic Shorthair mix. Jeffrey is a shier kitty that gains confidence the longer he knows people. He would love a quieter home with movie nights and nap times.

Roxy is a female, 2-year-old American Staffordshire mix. She is the goofiest of puppies!

Roxy is higher energy and would love a home that runs, hikes, or plays lots!

PAWS Shelter of Central Texas

is a non-profit, no-kill shelter operated primarily on donations and adoptions.

500 FM 150 E, Kyle, TX • 512 268-1611 • pawsshelter.org

All animals are fully vaccinated, spay/neutered, microchipped and dewormed.

sponsored by

Committed to your pet’s health since 1978

Kayley Goldsmith, DVM H Elizabeth Garriott, DVM H Michelle Kurkowski, DVM 6300 FM 1327 (East of I35 and Creedmoor) Austin, TX 78747 Give us a call at 512-385-0486

The study area (pink line) with highlighted areas where persistent storm sewer flow (dark blue) and shallow saturated conditions at homes (light blue) are a concern. The red circles indicate homes of residents who have reported seepage issues.

Dewatering Solutions Continued from pg. 1

low residents have experienced shallow saturated ground conditions, some dating as far back as 2008, that have caused a myriad of water-related problems for their homes.

Many have installed multiple sump pumps or made other drainage modifications, but the problem persists: excess water is discharged into yards or onto the street and sidewalks, causing yard flooding and the cracking and shifting of curbs, road surfaces and foundations.

Per ASI’s study, throughout 2021, ASI staff conducted field observations, pump tests and drilled 12 boreholes, concluding that geologic conditions are the source of the problems and confirming that residential-grade solutions (like drains and pumps) implemented so far have been ineffective in mitigating the issues.

Prior to the subdivision’s construction, a report by BSEACD (Barton Springs Edwards Aquifer Conservation District) geologist Brian Hunt identified historical springs and seeps in the area, which explains that the conditions homeowners are facing today are caused by perched aquifers.

A perched aquifer occurs when surface water infiltrates a porous medium that sits on top of an impermeable material, causing the water to build up.

The report also showed evidence of faulting in the area, which could explain why only some of the properties are experiencing this problem.

ASI’s study provided four options for a solution. Everyone present at the meeting agreed that its first option of ‘take no further option’ was not feasible.

Option 2 consists of changing the drainage

“There’s a place to build homes and a place to not build homes. They OK’d it [the building of the subdivision] with this [Hunt’s] study. What they did was wrong, and you all know that deep down in your heart.”

–James Fort, resident affected by the water saturation

configuration of sump pump discharges to tie into existing storm sewer inlets. The estimated cost is $7,000 to $15,000 per sump pit, with an estimated total of $150,000 for ten total installations.

Options 3 and 4 both consist of dewatering the perched aquifers. For option 3, the city would construct a dewatering installation at an estimated cost of $350,000 to $525,000, excluding long-term operations and maintenance costs. For option 4, since the issue is only affecting a handful of homes, the city would help guide residents in individually modifying their sump pumps to make dewatering efforts more effective.

ASI staff advised that dewatering could lead to further shifting of foundation slabs, so the city would need to consult with a structural engineer to devise a plan for these improvements.

One resident at the meeting denounced option 4, saying that the burden of the cost of dewatering should not be placed on the homeowners.

Per the study, any combinations of options 2, 3 and 4 could be implemented by the city in order to maximize the longevity of the solution.

James Fort, one of the most affected residents who has been vocal about this problem, offered his own solution during the meeting: that residents living in the ‘bad areas’ be

bought out of their homes, as these issues have rendered their homes practically unsellable.

“There’s a place to build homes and a place to not build homes,” Fort said.

“They OK’d it [the building of the subdivision] with this [Hunt’s] study. What they did was wrong, and you all know that deep down in your heart.”

The formation of the committee was discussed during the meeting and is still in the process of selecting members. City officials and residents agreed that being transparent and communicative with each other was important as they move towards a solution.

The full Aqua Strategies study can be found on the City of Buda website by searching for ‘Groundwater Study Stakeholder Meeting.’

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