January 26, 2022 Hays Free Press

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Hays County Youth Livestock Show brings out the best in ag talent.

Hays County feral hog management to include bounty program.

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Residents raise traffic concerns about Buda FM 967 development

BY BRITTANY ANDERSON BUDA — A proposed development in an already congested area of Buda has residents and planning and zoning commissioners concerned for potential traffic and safety issues, among others.

During the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting on Jan. 11, the commission held a workshop to provide feedback regarding a proposed residential and non-residential development on the Bailey and Armbruster tracts.

The tracts are located north of RM 967 and south of FM 1626, near the future SH-45.

The development would feature a mix of thousands of condos, townhomes, single-family homes and potentially apartments, as well as non-residential uses such as park space, trails and other amenities.

The combined properties span approximately 775 acres. Jeff Howard of MileStone Community Builders, the project developers, said that 40-45% of the tracts are within Austin’s extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ), while the rest is within Buda’s ETJ. The developers requested an expedited 90-day approval in the hopes of beginning construction in March, as well as entitlements that would allow the development to proceed, including the creation of a Municipal Utility District (MUD), a Development Agreement (DA) and a Planned Development (PD) zone.

Previously, only the Bailey tract was proposed, which has been in development since 2018.

The project has since doubled in size to include the Armbruster tract, shown during the Jan. 11 meeting, which developers have said is part of their solution to the traffic concerns that have been voiced.

The Armbruster tract would implement an additional four-phase transportation improvement plan – phases D, E, F and G — that would

PHOTO BY ASHLEY KONTNIER

Welcome center renovation denied for old library

BY MEGAN WEHRING

include a connection through to 1626. In addition to phases A, B and C of the Bailey tract, the improvements would total $41 million.

A roundabout where the road currently curves would be constructed during phase A for the development’s entrance and exit.

Because developers are unsure how long it would take to reach phase D – the 1626 connector — the singular entrance and exit present throughout phases A through C could linger for quite some time, causing increased traffic and safety issues in and around the development.

Developers said that the “ballpark” completion date of the entire project could be up to 10 years, but some of the commissioners believe it could take longer.

Commissioner Meghan McCarthy said that while she is appreciative of the

BUDA BUILD PROP, 10

The developers requested an expedited 90-day approval in the hopes of beginning construction in March. Commissioner Meghan McCarthy said that while she is appreciative of the addition of the Armbruster tract in the sense that it makes a more cohesive development, it is unwise on the developer’s part to put hundreds of homes on one entrance and exit that is being shared with construction traffic.

BUDA — Despite the fact that the Buda City Council denied converting the former library into a new welcome center which would cost nearly $1 million, the Destination Services department will move into the former library building, utilizing the space with new furniture, fixtures and equipment (FFE).

On Jan. 18, the city council rejected all bids for the renovation at 303 Main Street, a building that would give more efficient space for the Destination Services department in downtown Buda.

“We are looking to create more space,” said Lysa Gonzalez, Destination Services director. “Right now, staff has very limited space and functionality in our current office. So, this space allows for us to have space for our growing staff and provide functionality that our community is needing without having to build a new building.”

Gonzalez added that the department is needing more visibility, along with accessibility, for both the businesses within the city and the department’s staff. The department is currently housed at the Stagecoach house, located at 880 Main St, where staff have experienced pest problems, climate issues and increased maintenance costs.

Plans for the reno-

“When we started this, we were talking about $300,000 and it’s tripled now.

We are getting closer to a million now to redo this and I was hoping for something less in cost.

It’s pretty up there.”

–Paul Daugereau, council member

vation project were set in motion in 2019; the total for the project was set to be $916,021, with $770,000 in total allocated hotel occupancy tax (HOT) funds and $163,000 of American Rescue Plan Act funds.

Construction bid invitations were issued in November 2021 and out of the six bids received, the city recommended that Mooring Recovery Services, Inc. be awarded the contract for $694,014.02 While Mooring did offer the lowest bid, council members were still concerned about the cost.

“When we started this, we were talking about $300,000 and it’s tripled now,” said Paul

DESTINATION SERVICES, 10

Buda Bond Oversight Committee members announced

BY MEGAN WEHRING BUDA — Nearly 20 individuals were selected to serve on the city of Buda’s bond committee.

The Buda City Council adopted a resolution Tuesday, Jan. 18, creating the ad-hoc Buda Bond Oversight Committee and selecting 17 representatives and five alternates to serve on the committee.

The purpose of the committee will be to advise and provide guidance to the city council

Last year, Buda voters approved Proposition A (Transportation) and Proposition B (Parks and Recreation) bond packages that totaled $89.66 million. and city staff to ensure that the 2021 General Obligation bonds approved by the Buda voters on November 2, 2021, are implemented timely, efficiently, transparently, fairly and with quality and equity, according to the adopted resolution.

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Free COVID tests available through the mail.

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Last year, Buda voters approved Proposition A (Transportation) and Proposition B (Parks and Recreation) bond packages that totaled $89.66 million.

Committee members

BOND OVERSIGHT, 10

THE FOLLOWING INDIVIDUALS WILL SERVE ON THE BUDA BOND OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE. • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

David Nuckels Lori Moya Ricardo Garay Sarah Miller Keith Hester Krista Phillips Theo Kosub Tia Pair Tish Burlund Brandy Vela Jaime Romine Kimberly Goodman Terry Carroll Wendy Scott

The Hays Free Press Barton Publications, Inc. The Hays Free Press (USPS 361-430) published weekly by Barton Publications, Inc., P.O. Box 339, Buda, TX 78610. Periodicals postage paid at Buda, TX 78610 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Barton Publications, Inc., P.O. Box 339, Buda, TX 78610.

ISSN#1087-9323

• Jay Heinrich • Economic Development Corporation Representative (name not specified) • Cody Clayton (Alternate #1) • Mary Davis (Alternate #2) • Shane Phillips (Alternate #3) • Bradley Smelley (Alternate #4) • Sheryl Barcenas (Alternate #5)

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Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • January 26, 2022

SMPD officer involved in car crash Free at-home COVID tests fatality indefinitely suspended are available

BY BRITTANY ANDERSON

SAN MARCOS — Nearly two years after a car accident that resulted in the death of a woman and left her partner critically injured, the off-duty San Marcos Police Department (SMPD) officer responsible has been ‘indefinitely suspended.’

A letter from San Marcos city manager Bert Lumbreras said Sgt. Ryan Hartman’s suspension by SMPD on Jan. 18 came as the result of “sustained misconduct related to dereliction of duty and insubordination.”

On June 10, 2020, Hartman was on his cell phone and going 16 miles over the speed limit in his F-250 truck in Lockhart when he ran a stop sign and crashed into the Honda Accord of Jennifer Miller and her partner Pamela Watts.

Miller, 56, died at the scene while Watts was airlifted to a hospital in Kyle.

At the scene, officers found an open can of Dos Equis beer in the cuphold-

“We have a lot of questions. It’s remarkable that they would find there wasn’t enough evidence to move forward with the case.”

attorney. She has found support in Mano Amiga, a San Marcos-based group that works to amplify underrepresented communities within the rural I-35 corridor, who have –Sam Benavides, Mano Amiga’s communications director been vocal about bringing justice for Miller and Watts. er of the truck with several July 2020 due to a conSam Benavides, Mano ounces of beer in it; body flict of interest. Lockhart Amiga’s communications camera footage showed a police filed the case in director, said that the next Lockhart officer pouring August 2020 as a criminal step the group is looking it out. negligent homicide, but to take is following Watts’ Body camera footage a Caldwell County grand lead in pushing for Judge also showed Hartman jury in November 2020 did Schneider to take the refusing to provide a not charge Hartman due Negligent Homicide charge blood specimen, saying, “I to ‘insufficient evidence.’ back to a new grand jury so already caused the death The case was presented Hartman can face criminal of somebody,” and was

by Bastrop County District charges. not given a field sobriety Attorney Bryan Goertz.

“We have a lot of questest at the scene. A blood Hartman was able to tions,” Benavides said. “It’s test obtained several hours return to work later that remarkable that they would later at a hospital revealed month with nothing more find there wasn’t enough that there was no trace of than a citation for running evidence to move forward alcohol in his system at the stop sign, where he rewith the case.” that time. mained an officer until his Benavides said that The case has been met January 2022 suspension.

Mano Amiga will continue with intense controversy However, he will be able to to support the case and are and scrutiny due to the appeal the suspension if he encouraging the comlack of disciplinary action chooses. munity to contact Judge against Hartman.

Watts has filed a petition Schneider via phone (512) Fred Weber, the crimcalling for Caldwell County 398-1807 or email chris. inal district attorney for District Judge Chris Schnei- schneider@co.caldwell.txCaldwell County, recused der to reconvene a grand .us and ask him to reinstate himself from the case in jury under a new district a new grand jury.

Hays County feral hog management to include bounty program STAFF REPORT Feral hogs are responsible for significant agricultural and property losses in Texas – exceeding $500 million each year – and a bounty program in Hays County is working to mitigate this problem.

The county is continuing its feral hog management efforts into 2022 after receiving a $7,500

Beginning in February 2022, there will be two bounty claim opportunities per month for feral hogs harvested in Hays County. A $5 per-hog bounty will be paid by check on tails and/or certified buying station receipts. grant from Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Wildlife Services.

Beginning in February

2022, there will also be two bounty claim opportunities per month for feral hogs harvested in

Hays County. A $5 perhog bounty will be paid by check on tails and/or certified buying station receipts.

Participants will be required to complete a W-9 and a participation form, which can be obtained at the Hays County bounty station, or from the Central Texas Feral Hog Task

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FERAL HOG BOUNTY, 6

STAFF REPORT

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Opinion

QUOTE OF THE WEEK “We have a lot of questions. It’s remarkable that they would find there wasn’t enough evidence to move forward with the case.”

–Sam Benavides, Mano Amiga’s communications director. Story, page 2.

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • January 26, 2022

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Beat inflation. Life becomes ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ Spend now.

In these inflationary times it’s not easy to laugh as you watch the value of your hardearned savings being destroyed.

But I chuckled out loud when I read some of the tips offered by Bloomberg News to beat inflation, which is at its highest point in more than 40 years.

Since Americans have enjoyed low inflation and stable consumer prices for a long time, Bloomberg explains, Americans are “a little rusty on basic inflationary-era tactics.”

Bloomberg turned to the long-tortured people of Argentina for guidance, as they have become experts at navigating hyperinflation rates as high as 50 percent in a typical year.

The tips the Argentines offer are the polar opposite of everything my Depression-era parents taught my sisters and me about managing our money – nutty tips that suddenly make sense in a nutty world.

Here’s the first one: spend your paycheck immediately.

Why put money in the bank where its purchasing power will decline in value every day, when you can buy a new refrigerator, sofa or some other big-ticket item that will cost more a month from now?

In these goofy times, the sooner you buy it, the less you will pay for it.

Another tip: borrow lots of money.

If you can borrow a million today at a 3 percent annual rate and the inflation rate continues at 7 percent, you will enjoy a 4 percent gain.

That is, as today’s dollars inflate, it will be easier for you to repay the loan in the future.

Even this English major can see that makes sense – sort of.

Another tip: buy cars.

That was certainly my strategy in my spendthrift 20s, when I lived paycheck to paycheck, in part because I always had to have a nice ride that I couldn’t afford.

I can’t believe any news outlet would encourage Americans to put their money into automobiles, traditionally a horrible, rapidly depreciating investment.

Guest Column

by Tom Purcell

But in a world turned on its head – there is a shortage of cars due to a shortage of computer chips used in their manufacture – even new and old cars are soaring in value.

My father has lost a fortune in cars over his lifetime, as they depreciated 30 percent or more the day he drove them off the car lot.

Finally, he got lucky.

He leased a 2020 Kia. A year from now when his lease is up he will make the payoff of $13,500 and keep the car because it will be worth significantly more than that.

Bloomberg offers some traditionally sensible tips, such as buying inflation-linked bonds, which increase in value as inflation increases.

Bloomberg also suggests buying a home, which also makes sense, as a house is a great hedge against inflation.

Though good luck finding one at a reasonable price, as housing values have soared.

Covid has caused considerable market disruptions that have contributed to rising prices and our inflation woes.

The federal government’s stimulus spending, massive borrowing and especially its continuous money printing are major drivers of inflation.

I wish we had confidence that our political leaders had a sound strategy to solve this problem – a problem largely of their own making – but we don’t.

I’m surely not alone in my worry that financial matters may get plenty worse before they get better.

Until then I’ll demonstrate my investor acumen by squandering my hard-earned savings on a shiny new car I can’t afford.

Tom Purcell is an author and humor columnist for the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. Email him at Tom@TomPurcell.com.

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CORRECTIONS

Seventy years ago, in response to a fantasticalbut-true event on the ball field, sportswriter Red Smith wrote: “The art of fiction is dead. Reality has strangled invention.”

Indeed there are times, as we all know, when life imitates art imitates life. But this week nothing can top the twisty absurdism of the true tale that bonds Larry David with his ex-TV wife and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. It’s a tale I find worth telling, if only because I yearn not to write today about the usual downers, like encroaching fascism and Russian troop movements.

Nevertheless, if you do want some downer material, stay tuned.

Because I can offer you Robert F. Kennedy Jr. For those of you who haven’t seen the 11 seasons of “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” here’s the gist: Seinfeld creator Larry David, playing a curmudgeonly character named Larry David, is relentlessly punished, in big and small ways, for his various meddlings, inactions, and passive aggressive actions.

The Jerusalem Post newspaper approvingly points out, “Curb Your Enthusiasm has always been a Jewy show,” operating on the Yiddish

were both guests at a real wedding in 2012.

At that wedding, Larry introduced Cheryl to another guest, RFK Jr.

by Dick Pol(one of the slain RFK’s 11 man children). The two hit off.

Cheryl nicknamed him principle middah k’neged “my Cutie Booby Bobby.” middah – which roughly They got hitched in 2014. translates to “what goes Fast forward to last around comes around.”

Sunday, when people As our star would say, he who refuse to get gets “prit-tayy…prit-ayy” vaccinated – people pissed. dedicated to the further Jewish themes and spread of the virus and tropes predominate, its variants – gathered moreso than ever. for a rally in Washington.

Larry, as “Larry,” RFK Jr. was a prominent detests Trumpists and speaker. Suffice it to say, anti-Semites, and he’s statistically speaking, obsessed with the that in a family of 11 Holocaust. This past children, there was season, when a Klansman bound to be at least one comes to his house, nutcase. Precisely the ticked off that Larry’s kind that makes Larry’s friend Susie had sewn a head spin.

Star of David on his Klan This particular robe, Larry alerts the Kennedy is part of the neighborhood by blowing crowd that somehow the Rosh Hashanah equates vaccine shofar from his balcony. mandates (that are That’s all consistent designed to save people’s with some of the stuff he lives) with Nazis (whose produced on “Seinfeld,” Holocaust snuffed six like the episode when million lives).

Jerry and George got On Sunday, Kennedy stuck in a limo with posited the notion that two Nazis who said the in today’s America, we’re Holocaust was a hoax. all worse off than Anne Anyway, in our realFrank. The vaxxers, he life Curb episode, real said, are using satellites Larry and the real actress and 5G mobile networks Cheryl Hines, who was to create a massive pretend-married to surveillance network that “Larry” on the show until will ferret out anyone they pretend-divorced, refusing to get vaxxed. In

Guest Column

his words, “None of us can run and none of us can hide…Even in Hitler’s Germany, you could hide in the attic like Anne Frank did.”

Well. I suspect that Anne Frank’s family could’ve enlighten Kennedy about a few things, had they not all died in Nazi camps. As the Auschwitz Memorial tweeted yesterday, exploiting the deaths of people who perished in the Nazi epidemic “is a sad symptom of moral and intellectual decay.”

One can only imagine what’ll happen with Larry and Cheryl meet on the set for season 12: “Hi Larry, I hope you’re not mad at me because of Cutie Booby.”

“Eh.” “Because, remember, you’re the one who introduced us.”

“Eh.” “Fine. What’s our first scene?”

“Forget it, Eva Braun.

You are prit-tayy…prittayy…fired.”

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

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Chief Stan Standridge’s Chappiquiddick The Chappiquiddick Incident was a single car crash that occurred on Chappiquiddick Island in Massachusetts some time around midnight between Friday July 18, and Saturday July 19, 1969. The incident caused by Senator Edward Kennedy resulted in his conviction for leaving the scene with bodily injury. This incident forever doomed his quest for President of the United States.

This incident juxtaposed with the retention of Sergeant Ryan Hartman in the San Marcos Police Department, regrettably for me, compromises support I have for Chief Standridge in his quest to lead our department. Chief Standridge should review the policy of the Georgia Houston County Sheriffs Department: “... An Officer at all times must, on and off duty, conduct him/herself in a manner which does not bring discredit to the department or county ….

Conduct unbecoming an Officer shall include that conduct (2) Which has a tendency to destroy public respect for employees and confidence in the department. …”

Two occurrences for me, the Kyle Rittenhouse and Sergeant Ryan Hartman incidents add credence to my point. These two occurrences do not pass the Elie Mystal (a lawyer and frequent contributor to MSNBC) and James Bryant, Jr.’s reality test.

Mr. Mystal stated

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.

DEADLINES

I write this article because of the profound respect I have for law enforcement personnel. As a member of law enforcement during those years, I considered it an honor and privilege solidified by remembrances of my prior interactions with law enforcement (paraphrasing), “If I would have taken my AR-15 and my (sic) ‘Black Ass’ to protect businesses and protect myself, where would I be?”

If, I, as a Correction Officer/Registered Nurse would have ran through two stop signs 16 mph over the speed limit, talking on my cell phone, with an opened can of beer in my console 75% empty, and refused field sobriety tests do you believe for one Planck Time Unit that I would still have a job and be vigorously defended by my Chief, who allegedly said “there was only one stop sign” and “cell phone records do not substantiate use of his cell phone at that time.”

The incident that took Jennifer Miller's life, severely injured Pamela Watts, and latter precipitated profound egregious ramifications of the criminal justice system that unrelentingly sickens me greatly.

During my time in law enforcement, two of my long term superiors were “instantaneously” fired by my Sheriff. The Lieutenant was fired because his wife called the department thinking

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that he was on the job; however, he was with his mistress. The Sergeant was fired because he spoke condescendingly to Family members who presented query to him on the location of their loved one.

Even I was suspended for “one day with pay because no one likes you.”

I write this article because of the profound respect I have for law enforcement personnel. As a member of law enforcement during those years, I considered it an honor and privilege solidified by remembrances of my prior interactions with law enforcement, unlike the new mayor of New York City who was beaten by police officers in his youth. As a former NYC Police Captain and now NYC mayor he revisited that precinct station. On the DPS Memorial Wall, in Austin, I remember two officers very vividly.

Upon attempting for forty-five minutes to enter the Highway 95 exit from Interstate 35, which was under heavy construction in 1972, I was unable to do so. I became frustrated and “lit my afterburner” on

LETTERS GUIDELINES

my Chevy to continue on to Austin. Patrolman Billy Dan Howry stopped me for doing 97mph in a 35mph construction zone. Ladies and gentlemen, taking into consideration what my fine would be in 2022 – well go figure. He gave me a ticket for being eleven miles over the speed limit. I never forgot Patrolman Howry. A significant portion of my life I have always lived in his honor “paying it forward.”

Patrolman Billy Dan Howry was killed by a drunk driver two weeks after our encounter.

Chief Standridge’s endeavor to learn "ANYTHING" from the Austin Police Department precipitates profound unspeakable insufferable anguish in my psyche.

Austin Police Officers kill juveniles running down city streets unarmed and stark naked. Members of cadet classes resign because the curricula is “too violent.” They take elementary school teachers and toss them around throwing them to pavement commenting Black People have “violent tendencies” just to name a few.

Respectfully submitted, James Bryant, Jr. Editor’s note: Sergeant Ryan Hartman was terminated from the San Marcos Police Department last week for “sustained misconduct related to dereliction of duty and insubordination,” according to San Marcos City Manager Bert Lumbreras.

We welcome locally written letters to the editor on timely topics of community interest. We ask that you keep them to about 350 words in length and that you not indulge in personal attacks on private individuals. Letters may be edited for brevity and clarity. All letters should be signed by the author and include a daytime phone number where the author can be contacted for verification. Letter writers are limited to one letter per month. Letters can be emailed to csb@haysfreepress.com.

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Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • January 26, 2022

STATE NEWS

Registration form shortage as deadline nears Less than a week remains before the Jan. 31 deadline to register to vote in the March 1 primary. While Secretary of State John Scott publicly assured Texas voters that “every single eligible Texas voter will be able to register to vote if they have not done so already,” the League of Women Voters on Friday threatened to sue his office if the nonpartisan group isn’t provided with additional voter registration forms.

The Austin American-Statesman reported the league contends the state has decided to “sharply limit” the number of voter registration forms distributed to the league and other groups, claiming that is a violation of the National Voter Registration Act. “It is crucial that the Secretary of State’s office act swiftly to provide the necessary voter registration forms for the people of Texas. The deadline to register to vote for the upcoming primary election is quickly approaching, and Texas is one of 11 states without online voter registration,” said Grace Chimene, president of the League of Women Voters of Texas.

Sam Taylor, assistant secretary of state for communications, told KUT.org that supply chain issues have made it harder and more expensive to get paper, which means the Secretary of State's office will be giving out fewer voter registration forms to groups ahead of elections this year.

“We are limited in what we can supply this year because of the paper shortage and the cost constraints due to the price of paper and the supply of paper,” he said.

Texas is one of the few states that does not have online voter registration.

LEANDER MAN CHARGED FOR THREATENING ELECTION OFFICIALS A Leander man is the first person to be charged by federal officials in a case brought by a task force formed to combat threats against election officials. Numerous media outlets reported that Chad Christopher Stark posted a message last January on Craigslist, saying it was time to kill a Georgia elections official.

“Georgia Patriots it’s time for us to take back our state from these Lawless treasonous traitors.

It’s time to invoke our Second Amendment right it’s time to put a bullet in the treasonous Chinese [Official A]. Then we work our way down to [Official B] the local and federal corrupt judges,” Stark wrote, according to the indictment.

The three officials allegedly threatened were not named.

The Texas Tribune reported Georgia officials were especially targeted by a flood of hostile messages after they refused to back then-President Donald Trump’s claims of election fraud. Election officials across the country have faced criticism and personal attacks

by Trump supporters claiming the election was stolen. No widespread instances of election fraud have come to light despite dozens of investigations.

STATE AGAIN REACHES RECORD JOB LEVEL The Texas Workforce Commission reported last week that the seasonally adjusted state unemployment rate dropped to 5.0%

Capital Highlights

by Gary Borders

in December, down 0.2 percentage points from the previous month.

The state added 50,000 nonagricultural jobs last month — marking job gains in 19 of the last 20 months. The state set another record level of employment with more than 13 million jobs.

“Seeing a second consecutive month of record-setting employment, with more than 13 million jobs, highlights the underlying strength of the Texas economy,” said TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel. “This economic strength creates an environment for Texas employers to continue to create jobs and provide opportunities for the workforce in the Lone Star State.”

The state has added 694,000 jobs since December 2020.

COVID-19 CASES SET RECORD HIGH Spurred by the omicron variant, the number of new COVID-19 cases in Texas in the past week climbed to a record 433,584, with 971 new deaths reported as well by the Coronavirus Resource Center at Johns Hopkins University. Since the pandemic began in March 2020, the state has recorded 5.9 million cases and 78,055 deaths — equivalent to the entire population of Cedar Park.

Hospitalizations in Texas of lab-confirmed COVID-19 patients also continued to rise, up 36% from the previous week at 13,324, according to the Texas Department of State Health Services.

That figure is approaching the record high of 14,106 set in January 2021.

PAXTON DENIES OPEN RECORDS LAW VIOLATION Attorney General Ken Paxton denied that he violated the state’s open records law, rejecting an allegation by the Travis County district attorney that his office should release communications from the week of the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack, The Dallas Morning News reported.

Five of the state’s largest newspapers filed a joint complaint after Paxton denied their open records requests. The district attorney’s office warned it would file suit if Paxton did not release the information. In a letter to the Travis County district attorney’s public integrity unit, Paxton’s office called the claims “meritless” and said there was “no violation to cure.”

Editors for the newspapers released a joint statement saying: “We believe these records are public and should be released. We hope the Travis County district attorney continues to hold the attorney general accountable for following our state’s open records laws and continues to advocate for the public’s right to know in this case.”

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.

Lloyd Doggett

Beth Smith

Chip Roy

Amaya Cuellar

Erin Zwiener

Sandra Bryant

Angie Villescaz

Jessica Mejía

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Karen Marshall

Terry Strawn

Michelle Lopez

Carrie Isaac

Walt Smith

Joe Bateman

Mark Jones

Ruben Becerra

Brandon Burleson

Matthew Dowd

Political landscape changes with voter redistricting

BY CYNDY SLOVAK-BARTON

State Representative Joe Bateman. There is no area), is running on District 45 is currently Democrat running for the Republican ticket represented by State this seat, so the winner for County Judge. He Rep. Erin Zweiner (D), of the March 2022 will face the winner With the March who beat Carrie Isaac primary will take that of the primary race Democratic and (R) during the 2020 seat. between Ruben Becerra Republican primaries election. Zweiner has Other familiar names (incumbent) and just around the corner, two opponents in the who will be on the ballot Brandon Burleson. some voters might be Democratic primary include Beth Smith (D) Finally, Wimberley looking for familiar – Angela “Tia Angie” incumbent for Justice resident and national names – but with the Villescaz and Jessica of the Peace, Pct. 2. political pundit and new maps signed into “Sirena” Mejía. Kyle Her opponent in the consultant Matthew law by Gov. Greg Abbott resident and former Democratic Primary Dowd pulled his name following the 2020 Kyle council member is Amaya Cuellar. No from the race for Texas Census, several will no Michelle Lopez has filed Republican is running Lieutenant Governor, longer be a part of Hays on the Republican ticket for JP Pct. 2. citing a need for greater County. to face Zweiner.

In the JP Pct. 5 diversity on the ticket.

U.S. Rep. Lloyd Isaac has now filed position of Buda, Dowd filed on the Doggett, who currently for District 73, which Lucinda Doyle chose Democratic ticket. He represents Hays County not to run. She had been was the chief strategist as part of District 35, had includes Gillespie, Kendall and Comal appointed when former for the George Bush 2004 his home redrawn into counties. District 73 had JP Scott Cary decided presidential campaign. a district entirely within been represented by to step down. On the Lots of shuffling has Travis County. His new Kyle Biedermann, who Democratic ticket, gone down during the district is now District announced in October former Hays CISD school previous few months, 37. board member Sandra so stay tuned to the Doggett ran for former 2021 that he would not run for re-election. Isaac Bryant has tossed her Hays Free Press and U.S. Rep. J.J. “Jake” has two opponents name in the ring. She News-Dispatch for more Pickle’s congressional in the Republican is the only Democrat political news. district when Pickle Primary, and the winner running for this position The Primary is set stepped down in 1995. in that primary will and will face the winner for March 1, while the Doggett’s current face Democrat Justin of the Republican General Election is set district (35) runs from Calhoun. primary between Karen for Nov. 8. The last day east Travis County, In western Hays Marshall and Terry to apply for a ballot through east Hays County, representing Strawn. by mail (received, not County, along I-35 Pct. 4 on the Hays Mark Jones, who postmarked) is Feb. and into San Antonio, County Commissioners serves as County 18. The application and he has numerous Court is incumbent Walt Commissioner of can be found on the candidates in both Smith. He is faced in the Precinct 2 (currently Hays County elections parties running against Republican primary by the Buda and Kyle website. him for this district.

Congressman Chip Roy, who represents U.S. District 21 covering the Updated Property Tax Information Now Available for Texas Taxpayers western portion of Hays County, has filed to run New and updated property tax information has been compiled by Hays Central Appraisal again, with numerous District and is available now to assist taxpayers. This property tax information is current and covers a wide range of topics, such as taxpayer remedies, exemptions and appraisals, and opponents. has information for select groups, such as disabled veterans and persons age 65 or older.

Congressman Roger Williams, who serves “Whether you are a homeowner, business owner, disabled veteran or other property owner, U.S. District 25, will it’s important to know your rights concerning property tax laws”, said Laura Raven, Chief no longer be a part of Appraiser of the Hays Central Appraisal District. “Contact us with your questions and we’ll provide you the most complete, accurate and up–to–date information available to assist you.”

Hays County after the upcoming General • Property Tax Exemptions for Disabled Veterans – The law provides partial exemptions Election in November for any property owned by disabled veterans or surviving spouses and surviving children 2022. of deceased disabled veterans. Another partial exemption is for homesteads donated to

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disabled veterans by charitable organizations at no cost or not more than 50 percent of the good faith estimate of the homestead’s market value to the disabled veterans and their surviving spouses. The exemption amount is determined according to percentage of service–connected disability. The law also provides a 100 percent homestead exemption for 100 percent disabled veterans and their surviving spouses and surviving spouses of U.S. armed service members killed in the line of duty.

Homestead Exemptions – A homestead is generally defined as the home and land used as the owner’s principal residence on Jan. 1 of the tax year. A homestead exemption reduces the appraised value of the homestead and, as a result, lowers property taxes.

Applications are submitted to the appraisal district office and can be filed online at www. hayscad.com.

Productivity Appraisal – Property owners who use land for agricultural purposes or wildlife management can be granted property tax relief on their land. Visit the appraisal district’s website www.hayscad.com and go to the AG/WL INFO tab for more information.

You can file an application which may result in a lower appraisal of the land based on production, versus market value. You can file electronically using the Online Forms portal on the website.

Property Tax Exemptions – Non–profit organizations that meet statutory requirements may seek property tax exemptions and must apply at the appraisal district by a specific date. Businesses that receive tax abatements granted by taxing units; ship inventory out of Texas that may be eligible for the freeport exemption; store certain goods in transit in warehouses that are moved within 175 days; construct, install or acquire pollution control property; own and operate energy storage systems; convert landfill–generated gas; or store offshore drilling equipment while not in use may also be eligible for statutory exemptions.

Rendering Taxable Property – If a business owns tangible personal property that is used to produce income, the business must file a rendition with the appraisal district by April 15th. File online at www.hayscad.com using the Online Forms portal. Personal property includes inventory and equipment used by a business. Owners do not have to render exempt property such as church property or an agriculture producer’s equipment used for farming.

Residence Homestead Tax Deferral – Texas homeowners may postpone paying the currently delinquent property taxes due on the appreciating value of their homes by filing a tax deferral affidavit at their local county appraisal district. This tax relief allows homeowners to pay the property taxes on 105 percent of the preceding year’s appraised value of their homestead, plus the taxes on any new improvements to the homestead. The remaining taxes are postponed, but not cancelled, with interest accruing at 8 percent per year.

Property Tax Deferral for Persons Age 65 or Older or Disabled or Disabled Veteran Homeowners – Texans age 65 or older or disabled, as defined by law, or who qualify for a disabled veteran exemption may postpone paying current and delinquent property taxes on their homes by signing a tax deferral affidavit. Once the affidavit is on file, taxes are deferred, but not cancelled, as long as the owner continues to own and live in the home.

Interest continues to accrue at 5 percent per year on the unpaid taxes. You may obtain a deferral affidavit at the appraisal district.

Appraisal Notices – Taxpayers typically receive a notice of appraised value from the appraisal district in the spring. The notice should be reviewed carefully, it contains important information about the property record. Once notices are mailed the updated information is available at www.hayscad.com. The city, county, school districts and other local taxing units will use the appraisal district’s value to set property taxes for the coming year.

Protesting Property Appraisal Values – Property owners who disagree with the appraisal district’s appraisal of their property for local taxes or for any other action that adversely affects them may protest their property value to the Hays County Appraisal Review Board (ARB). The electronic portal for filing protests at www.hayscad.com will be open once 2022 Notices of Appraised Value are mailed, or send timely protests to protest@hayscad.com.

Property Taxpayer Remedies – This Comptroller publication explains in detail how to protest a property appraisal, what issues the county appraisal review board (ARB) can consider and what to expect during a protest hearing. The publication also discusses the options of taking a taxpayer’s case to district court, the State Office of Administrative Hearings or binding arbitration if the taxpayer is dissatisfied with the outcome of the ARB hearing. You can find it at comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/property–tax/.

Notice of Availability of Electronic Communication – Chief appraisers and ARBs may communicate electronically through email or other media with property owners or their designated representatives. Written agreements are required for notices and other documents to be delivered electronically instead of mailing. Visit www.hayscad.com and click Request for Electronic Communications to sign up.

To learn more visit www.hayscad.com. Information is also available on the Comptroller’s Property Tax Assistance Division’s website at comptroller.texas.gov/taxes/property-tax/.

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • January 26, 2022

Page 5

TEXAS HISTORY: Who bushwacked the Bandit Queen

Belle Starr, Fort Smith, Arkansas, 1886;The man on the horse is Deputy U.S. Marshal Benjamin Tyner Hughes who, along with his posse man, Deputy U.S. Marshal Charles Barnhill, arrested her at Younger's Bend in May 1886 and brought her to Ft. Smith for arraignment.

only through a narrow canyon and, for a steep price, provided an ideal sanctuary for criminal associates on the run.

Younger’s Bend evolved into an infamous hideout for highwaymen, horse thieves, bank robbers and bootleggers all under the cunning control of the Bandit Queen. Except for a lone conviction that resulted in a nine-month stretch in the county jail, Belle brazenly operated beyond the reach of the law.

After Sam Starr perished in a December 1886 shootout, Belle picked a replacement 16 years her junior. When the independent female refused to take his surname, Jim July tacked Starr onto his own.

Belle was ambushed while horseback riding in

BBB TIP: Beware of scams when preparing for winter storms As February approaches, Texas residents may be taking action to prepare for another possible winter storm, much like the one that shut down the state in 2021. Preparing for winter storms is a process that many Texans may be unfamiliar with, as winter temperatures in the Lone Star state typically average above the freezing threshold. However, consumers are taking the lessons learned in 2021 to heart and are preparing for worstcase scenarios by purchasing generators, hiring landscapers to manage tree limbs and winterizing their plumbing systems.

Scammers are also carrying out a series of cons focused on appealing toward the winter-wary consumer.

In October 2021, one Texas resident reported to BBB Scam Tracker they encountered an online scam when attempting to purchase a solar generator advertised on Facebook to prepare for a possible repeat of February’s winter storm.

“I was first aware this was probably a scam when I got an order confirmation email from a Hotmail address and received no response when I requested to cancel the order,” the consumer reported. “The company provided a fake tracking number to PayPal when I disputed the charge, which showed the item was delivered the day after I placed the order. I will probably never receive reimbursement of my funds.”

While obtaining a generator is a good step in preparing for winter storms, there are many other considerations that Texas residents should take the time to address. Accord-

ing to FEMA, checking the condition of your home’s insulation, caulking and weather-stripping can help to keep the cold out and the heat in. It is also important to understand what winter weather alerts mean: • Winter Storm Warning: Issued when hazardous winter weather in the form of heavy snow, heavy freezing rain or heavy sleet is imminent or occurring.

Winter Storm Warning are usually issued 12 to 24 hours before the event is expected to begin.

• Winter Storm Watch: Alerts the public to the possibility of a blizzard, heavy snow, heavy freezing rain, or heavy sleet. Winter Storm Watches are usually issued 12 to 48 hours before the beginning of a winter storm.

• Winter Weather Advisory: Issued for accumulations of snow, freezing rain, freezing drizzle, and sleet which will cause significant inconveniences and, if caution is not exercised, could lead to life-threatening situations.

Better Business Bureau cautions Texas residents to carefully choose contractors to assist in winter storm preparations and to be wary of online purchases for winter-related equipment that seem too good to be true. Aggressive selling tactics, including the use of fear or coercion, are indications that either the company may not be legitimate or acting in the consumer's interest.

“Businesses and individuals that use fear to sell products or services should be handled with extreme caution,” said Heather Massey, vice president of communications for Better

Business Bureau serving the Heart of Texas. “While we all remember the dangers associated with being unprepared for a winter storm from last year’s experience, it is important not to rush purchasing or contracting decisions. Take the time to research the business or seller on BBB.org and other websites to determine if they are legitimate.”

To assist consumers in preparing for the possibility of a winter storm, BBB provides the following tips and information: • Price gouging is illegal.

The Office of the Attorney General has the authority to prosecute any business that engages in price gouging after the governor or president has declared a disaster.

Price gouging is defined as selling or demanding an excessive price for fuel, food, medicine, lodging, building materials, construction tools, or another necessity. While businesses are allowed to determine the prices for their products, raising prices to take advantage of increased demand due to a disaster may indicate that price gouging has occurred. Consumers should report instances of price gouging to the Texas Attorney General.

• Winterizing your home.

To properly winterize your home, it may take contracting the services of multiple trades and industries, such as plumbers, carpenters and landscapers. BBB recommends receiving an estimate for the work you need to be completed by at least three separate businesses and staggering payments throughout the length of the project. Be cautious of

AVOID SCAMS, 7

February 1889. The ambush happened the week before her forty-second birthday, and the grisly coup de grace was a shotgun blast in the back.

The sensational unsolved murder yielded a bumper crop of suspects.

A local farmer allegedly blackmailed by the victim was questioned and released. Jim July Starr was a popular choice, while another leading candidate was the vengeful brother of a dead boyfriend. The most sinister innuendo hinted that the killer was none other than Ed Reed, Belle’s own flesh and blood.

Neither of her children won any “good citizen” awards. Pearl’s adult performances were private affairs in Arkansas brothels.

A prostitute and notorious

madam, she died from natural causes in 1925. As for her half-brother Ed, he was a three-time loser when gunned down at the age of 22.

Although her colorful exploits inspired a stack of books, several movies and television shows and two Broadway plays, the Bandit Queen could not get the time of day from her original love. Bitter over Belle’s failure to spring him from prison, Cole Younger did not even mention her name in his 1903 autobiography.

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Serving a life sentence in the federal penitentiary at Stillwater was Belle’s first love. But to break Cole Younger out of prison or to buy his freedom, she would need a mountain of money.

The romantic trailblazer showed a scandalous preference for younger men.

When she was pushing 40, they were barely out of their teens. The objects of her affection had a short life expectancy as six successive paramours met violent ends in just four and a half years.

Marriage to Sam Starr gave Belle her famous last name plus a sizable chunk of Oklahoma real estate.

The property, which she indelicately called Younger’s Bend, was accessible

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Myra Belle Shirley never blamed her life of crime on an impoverished saloons of Dallas, where childhood. Her folks were, Belle worked as a partin fact, quite well-to-do. time entertainer and Daddy owned a block of full-time gambler, she met businesses in Carthage, Jim Reed, future father of Missouri, and the doting her son Ed. Reed was an parents gave their little Indian, like all of Belle’s darling the best of everylovers after Younger, and thing. a third-rate As a borbandit who The romantic der state introduced caught in her to the trailblazer the Northexciting showed a South world of crossfire, the frontier scandalous Missouri outlaw. preference for became After a battleBelle and younger men. ground her latest When she was after beau stole secession. pushing 40, they $30,000 When Carworth of were barely out thage was gold in torched Oklahoma, of their teens. and a son Reed was The objects of slain by shot to abolitionist death by a her affection raiders, the friend near had a short life Shirleys Paris, Texas decided to who killed expectancy as spend the him for the six successive rest of the reward. His Civil War in financialparamours met Texas and ly secure violent ends in moved to widow Scyene on temporarily just four and a the eastern retired to half years. outskirts of a respectDallas. able life in Teenaged Belle fell head Dallas, where she tried to over heels for a dashing mold her daughter into a young fugitive. The impul- child star. sive girl took off with Cole Auditions were easy to Younger and his sidekick come by for a pistol-packJesse James and wandered ing stage mother, and at back home only after the age 14 Pearl made her gunfighters resumed their vaudeville debut. But, as robbing ways. is so often the case, the The following year, Belle offspring’s talent did not gave birth to a baby girl match mama’s ambition. she named Pearl Younger.

Belle, even on her best Her folks bought the story behavior, was a wild and that Cole tied the knot unpredictable hellion. before skipping town, but Following arrests for arson skeptical neighbors ostra- and horse stealing, she cized the unwed mother. abandoned the straightIn the dance halls and and-narrow and headed

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Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • January 26, 2022

Feral Hog Bounty

OBITUARIES BOWMAN

Odgen, Utah. They were also Temple workers in the John Edward BowOgden and San Antonio man, 89, of Buda, Texas, Temples for over 20 years. passed way They built a home and January lived for 16 years in Buda, 21, 2022 in Texas.

Buda. John John is survived by his was born in beloved spouse Lovina San Diego, Bowman, of Buda, sister California Barbara Hollowell of to John EaBerkeley, CA, daughters ley Birdsall Cyndee Cook (Bill), Pam and BarbaBowman, Polly Floyd ra Bronson (Rory) and Mariah Nelson on March 16, 1932.

John served in the mili- (Jon), and sons Jeff Marble tary for 7 years as a Marine (Jodi), James Bowman (Elaine), Thomas Bowin the US Air Force and man (Loyce), John Marble the US Army as a heavy (Debbie), and Daniel equipment operator in the Combat Engineers. He Bowman (Nancy). He was preceded in death by his worked as a cowboy for sister Rose Arnold, brother ranches in Arizona and Jack Birdsall, daughter Sue the Texas Panhandle for 7 De Wit, grandson Porter years.

Bowman, granddaughter John married LoviSarah Hane Bowman, na Marble in 1960 in great-grandson Parrin Flagstaff, Arizona. They Sheya and great-grandraised 10 children while daughter Eowyn Sheya. he worked on an Arizona Funeral services will be power plant as a heavy equipment operator and a held at 11:00 am on Saturday January 29, 2022 at traffic manager – retiring The Church of Jesus Christ after 19 years. of Latter-day Saints, locatJohn and Lovina were ed at 3751 Trail Ridge Pass, married for 62 years and San Marcos, TX 78666 with were members of The Bishop John Anguiano ofChurch of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Together ficiating. Burial will follow at Kyle Cemetery, located they served a two-year at 3354 CR 136 (Old Stagemission in New Zealand and a one-year mission in coach Rd.) Kyle, TX.

Continued from pg. 2

BRIONES Susie Vela Briones, age 74, passed away on January 18, 2022 at her home in Kyle, Texas.

She was born on September 15, 1946 in Bastrop, Texas to Ysidoro and Sophia Vela and grew up in a loving home.

Susie was born in Bastrop but lived most of her life in Austin and attended Austin High School where she kept her brothers in line.

It was at a dance event held in Austin, where Susie met the love of her life, Moses R. Briones.

They dated and were married in 1965. From their marriage were born three children, Geneva, Gabriel, and Gina.

Ever the progressive mother of the day, Susie continued studying at Austin Community College and from her continuing education, gained employment with the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts. She retired from the Comptroller’s office after 28 years

of service.

Her family knew her as “The Bruiser”, disciplined, tough, but with a big heart and very loving.

She is survived by her son Gabriel Briones and wife Stella, daughter, Geneva Briones, grandchildren, Moses Smith, Arielle Arnold, Melonie Guerrero, Gabriel “JoJo” Briones, Andrew Chapa, Alyssa Avalos, Naomi Briones, Michael Avalos, Joshua Briones, and Jessica Danvers, along with 10 great-grandchildren.

Susie was also survived by siblings Emma Vela Rios, Vidal “Bill” Vela, and Arthur Vela.

She was predeceased by her parents Sophia and Ysidoro Lopez Vela,husband Moses Briones and daughter Gina Briones.

Visitation will be held at Harrell Funeral Home in Kyle from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. on Monday, January 24, 2022 with a Rosary at 7:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be conducted by Father Rito Davila at St. Anthony Marie de Claret Catholic Church at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 25, 2022 with burial to follow at Assumption Cemetery.

Force website.

Additionally, the program will include a workshop, a webinar, a countywide survey and damage assessment, and the continuation of a volunteer-led trapping effort.

Hays County Pct. 2 Commissioner Mark Jones said that feral hogs continue to pose significant problems for both agriculture producers and residential property owners within the county.

Texas is home to an estimated three million feral hogs. Lacking sweat glands, they seek shelter along creeks and rivers, which can result in contamination of those waterways, such as Cypress Creek and the San Marcos River.

Hays County is an affiliate of the Central Texas Feral Hog Task Force and has partnered with The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment at Texas State University, as well as the Cypress Creek Project, San Marcos Watershed Initiative and the Plum Creek Watershed Partnership to assist with the im-

plementation, research and educational components of the program in 2022.

“The 2022 feral hog program in Hays County has been a great opportunity for sustained success, as we have received both the continued funding and support to coordinate on a regional scale with projects in Caldwell County,” said Nick Dornak, Director of Watershed Services at the Meadows Center.

The Plum Creek Watershed Partnership will also coordinate educational workshops for Hays and Caldwell County stakeholders throughout the spring and summer. Landowners engaging with the Hays County feral hog program will also have the opportunity to participate in an ongoing, remote-operated feral hog trap sharing cooperative.

For more information on these programs and to complete your 2022 feral hog survey, visit the project website at www.feralhogtaskforce.com/hays.html, or email the task force at feralhog@txstate.edu.

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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

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

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

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

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Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • January 26, 2022

Volunteers give back to local congregation needed.

BY MEGAN WEHRING “I think the thing that KYLE — A little goes a was really outstanding long way. The Kyle United about it was the sheer Methodist Church found determination of this one this to be true after a small man, Butch LeFleur [who yet dedicated group of initiated the project],” men volunteered over 400 said Rev. Stella Burkhalter, hours for a beautification senior pastor. project on the church’s LeFleur was the first grounds. volunteer to step up for the As a congregation that job but three other men dates back to 1880, the his- also dedicated their time: toric Kyle United MethodSean Claes, George Daviist Church relies heavily on don, and Terry Schiesler. volunteers to keep up with They started working last the care of the building and March and continued landscaping. After Winter through the blazing sumStorm Uri swept through mer heat in June and July. last February, an outdoor Burkhalter credits the beautification project volunteers’ hard work for was just what the church motivating other members

The Kyle United Methodist Church showed its appreciation for the volunteers who dedicated several hours to an outdoor beautification project by rewarding them with individual pies, a dessert that is not uncommon in the city of Kyle. From left to right:Butch LeFleur, Sean Claes, Rev. Stella Burkhalter, George Davidon and Terry Schiesler. Photo courtesy of Rev. Stella Burkhalter

of the congregation to participate in smaller projects.

“We have a little blessing box in the back of our building where people can put food in and take food out,” Burkhalter said. “I see a lot of people that are not part of the church putting food in as well, so it’s really cool to have that in our community. We [also] added a picnic bench out there in honor of our matriarch, Sue Farrell, who passed away during the ice storm.

Their dedication to make it

look better fueled all of us.”

Kyle United Methodist is one of many churches recovering from the havoc of the pandemic.

“Trying to build back [due to] the pandemic, a lot of churches have been hit really hard,” Burkhalter said. “We lost rental income, we have had people cut back on giving [and] a lot of people are attending online. Kyle is growing so fast and we are trying to grow with it to make space for more people.”

Avoid Scams Continued from pg. 5

contractors that demand a large percentage of the total cost upfront or provide vague answers to your questions. Use BBB. org to find accredited businesses near your home. Low-income households in need of funds to winterize their homes can apply for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.

• Use protected payment methods.

Whether purchasing equipment online or contracting services, be cautious when interacting with businesses that demand payment by cash, wire transfer or mobile banking app. When possible, BBB recommends purchasing items with a credit card, which often offers a greater ability to dispute charges than a debit card. Be especially careful of businesses that offer their services after a disaster has occurred in your area, known as storm chasers, who only accept cash payments.

For more information on how to prepare for winter storms and recover, visit BBB.org/ Winter.

If you’ve been a victim of a scam, report it to BBB Scam Tracker.

Information provided may prevent another person from falling victim.

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Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • January 26, 2022

Helping to celebrate Nakachi’s achievement was Lehman High Principal Karen Zuniga and Lehman High PATH Teacher Mariza Rebmann (not pictured).

PHOTO BY ALBERT SANCHEZ Above, Jaguar Ripley Willis (#15)and goalkeeper Alex Kreutner (#26) apply tough defense and kept Tiger Ellie Hodsden (#7) from scoring.

Jags shut out by defending state champs On Tuesday Jan. 18, the Johnson Jaguars hosted the defending UIL 5A State Champions from Dripping Springs High School. The final score was Tigers 5 and Jags 0.

The Jags played tough but the current #1 State Ranked Tigers were too tough in the end. The Tigers had three goals at halftime and scored an additional two goals in

the second half. The Jags never gave up and their overall record is 6-2 and their district record is 0-2.

The Jags next home game is February 1st against Seguin High School.

PHOTO BY ALBERT SANCHEZ Above is Tiger freshman Ellie Hodsdon (#7). Her kick went just right of the goal with great defense by Cougar Shannon Best (#8). The Tiger’s next home game is Feb. 1 at 7:15 p.m.

D.S. Tigers shutout Canyon Cougars 5-0 On Friday, Jan. 21, the defending State 5A Champions and current state ranked #1, DSHS Tiger soccer team opened the first home

game of district play.

The Tigers hosted the NB Canyon Cougars in front of an exuberant home crowd. The Tigers shutout the Cougars

5-0. The team remains undefeated with a 7-0 overall record and 2-0 in district play. The Cougars fall to 4-3 on the season.

Lehman senior earns full ride to Stanford The dream of a full-ride academic scholarship toward a college education is now reality for Lehman High senior Yoshi Nakachi.

Earlier this school year, Nakachi was named a finalist in the prestigious Questbridge National College Match program, which earned him a four-year scholarship worth $309,472 to attend Stanford University in Palo Alto, California. The scholarship not only covers his tuition and room and board, but also books, supplies and travel expenses to and from home and Stanford.

It’s all part of the Questbridge National Scholarship Match Program, which provides the nation’s brightest high school students who come from low-income backgrounds the opportunity to earn a fully-paid college education at one of the nation’s leading institutions.

Students who typically apply for the scholarship are ranked in the top 5 to 10% of their graduating class, have an SAT score greater than 1260 or an ACT score higher than 27 and achieve high grades throughout high school. In addition, students also go through a rigorous application progress that starts in the summer of their senior year and concludes in December.

Students who apply provide a ranked list of colleges that they would like to attend. This includes schools that partner with Questbridge, including Stanford, Yale, Harvard and more. The program then works to see if students can match with one of the schools on their list for early enrollment and a fullride scholarship. A student

Students who typically apply for the scholarship are ranked in the top 5 to 10% of their graduating class, have an SAT score greater than 1260 or an ACT score higher than 27 and achieve high grades throughout high school.

is named a finalist if they were matched to a college or university on their list.

In 2021, 6,312 students were selected as National College Match Finalists

out of more than 16,500 applications.

Finalists exhibit outstanding academic achievement and qualify financially.

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See solutions on page 6

Hays Free Press • January 26, 2022

Page 9

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NOTICE OF APPLICATION January, 2022 TO SUBDIVIDE• Drivers Douglas A. Edwards

$8k

landlord’s lien. by 2:00 p.m., February 16, lettcocke.com no later than Sale to be held Online at 2022 to: 2:00:00 PM on 2/8/2022. Any Storagetreasures.com by Leon Barba, P .E. • Mechanics An application has been proposals received after this competitive bid.

City Engineer CITATION BY PUBLICATION lect time will not be accepted. filed with HAYS COUNTY • Equipment Operators Anytime Storage, LLC City of Kyle City Hall p osElectronic to subdivide 87.03 acres of TO: UNKNOWN HEIRS i copies of the 880 Windy Hill Rd. 100 W. Center Street t O NOTICE TO CREDITORS ion * • Excavation Laborers n-Si proposal property located at along oin the TDS Family.

We offer competitive pay, s OF BRIAN COOK AND TO documents may Kyle, TX 78640 Kyle, TX 78640 I t n e Notice is hereby given terthat Concrete Workers Six Creeks Blvd, Kyle, •TX be obtained from Bartlett Will be ending on or after The complete submittals v ALL UNKNOWN OWNERS, i original Letters Testamentary e eat benefits, paid training/leave/holidays.

78640. Information regardw Cocke or viewed at local and February 8, 2022 at 11 AM shall be enclosed in an enves • Route Auditors HEIRS, OR CLAIMANTS for the Estate of Ines Orta ing the application may be online planrooms. Contact Cleanup deposit is lope and plainly marked on e’re hiring for most positions, including: Benavides, Deceased, were • Customer Care Reps, and more!

IN THE LAND DESCRIBED obtained from Hays County Stephon Hill via email shill@ required. Seller reserves the outside of the envelope issued on January 12, 2022, Development Services (512) HEREIN, DEFENDANTS, bartlettcocke.com or phone the right to withdraw the or on any carrier’s envelope: Drivers393-2150. Tracking number: in Cause No. 21-0336-P, (512) 326-4223 Phone to property at any time before RFP No. 2022-01 GREETINGS: pending in the County Court PLN-1853-NP. Mechanics make arrangements. the sale.

Impact Fee Update Join the TDS Family. We offer competitive pay, YOU HAVE BEEN SUED. at Law #3, Hays County, TexSmall, Woman Owned, The property contents of Proposal specifications Equipment Operators You may employ an attorney. as, to: Richard Benavides great benefits, paid training/leave/holidays.

O ffer* Certain exclusions apply.

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS Disadvantaged, HUB, HUBall storage unit(s) sold at this may be secured from the If you or your attorney doinot All persons having claims ng We’re hiring forCocke most positions, Zone, 8(a), Minority, and all Excavation Laborers sale are purchased “as is” City of Kyle (City) website Bartlett General including: p to this Estate which file a written answer with the uagainst * is similar firms are encouraged is” for CASH/CREDIT. at the following link: https:// contractors, Construction • Drivers Concrete Workers for: Jack clerk who issued this citation currently being administered to submit proposals on this “where Unit items sold for cash to www.cityotkyle.com/rfps Manager-at-Risk, f by 10:00 a.m. on the Monday are required to present them o • Mechanics r se project. Bartlett Cocke Genthe highest bidder. All Units The City reserves the right C. Hays HS - HVAC EquipRoute Auditors l next following the expiration e to the undersigned within c • Equipment Operators t po eral Contractors is an equal have miscellaneous houseto negotiate with any and all ment, is requesting competof forty-two days O after you s the time and in the manner Customer Reps, • Excavation Laborers opportunity (EEO) employer. n-Si itio hold items, boxes, furniture. persons or firms. The City itive Care proposals from subcon- were served this citation, n * prescribed by law. s Inte t Property includes the • Concrete Workers tractors and suppliers. also reserves the right to rvie e the same being FEBRUARY c/o: Jo Ann Torrez ws Subcontractor and suppli- 28, 2022 a default judgment reject any or all submittals, NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE contents of spaces of the • Route Auditors Attorney at Law following tenant (s). er proposals will be received may be taken against you. or to accept any submittal 2520 South IH-35, Suite Sale of property to satisfy • Customer Care Reps, and more!

CAREY BARRERA – via Fax to (512) 326-4339 or deemed most advantageous, In addition to filing a written 102 a landlord’s lien. bench, bed, rims, washer, (512) 326-3990 or via email or to waive any irregularianswer with the clerk, you Austin, Texas 78704 Sale to be held online at fridge to bidaus@bartlettcocke.com ties or informalities in the Apply at TexasDisposal.com or call 512.329.1778 may be required to make DATED the 20th day of * Certain exclusions apply.

Storagetreasures.com by no later than 2:00:00 PM on information. submittal received, and to initial disclosures to the January, 2022. competitive bid. for more 2/10/2022. Any proposals revise the process schedule otherapply. parties of this suit.

NOTICE OF REQUEST Jo Ann Torrez Anytime Storage, LLC * Certain exclusions received after this time will as circumstances arise.

These disclosures generally Attorney for Richard Be2401 Windy Hill Rd. FOR PROPOSALS not be accepted.

Leon Barba, P .E. must be made no later than navides Kyle, TX 78640 Electronic copies of the City Engineer 30 days after you file your State Bar No.: 24015007 RFP NO. 2022-01 Will be ending on or after proposal documents may be answer with the clerk. Find 2520 South IH-35, Suite February 8, 2022 at 11 AM WATER & WASTEWATER obtained from Bartlett Cocke out more at TexasLawHelp.

102 Cleanup deposit is REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS or viewed at local and online org.

IMPACT FEE UPDATE Austin, Texas 78704 required. Seller reserves “Hays CISD is Requesting planrooms. Contact Stefan YOU ARE HEREBY Telephone: (512) 480-5995 the right to withdraw the NOTICE OF REQUEST Proposals for RFP #18Doerr via email Sdoerr@ COMMANDED to appear Facsimile: (512) 480-5981 property at any time before 012201AS Backflow Fire bartlettcocke.com or phone FOR PROPOSALS and answer before the 428th E-mail: service@torrezlaw. the sale.

Control Inspection & Repair.

(512) 326-4223 Phone to District Court, Hays Councom The property contents of RFP NO. 2022-01 Proposals will be accepted make arrangements. ty, Texas, at San Marcos all storage unit(s) sold at this until 02-25-2022 at 2:00 p.m.

Small, Woman Owned, then and there to answer WATER & WASTEWATER local time. Specifications sale are purchased “as is” NOTICE TO CREDITORS Disadvantaged, HUB, HUBthe PLAINTIFF’S ORIGIIMPACT FEE UPDATE are available in the HCISD Notice is hereby given that “where is” for CASH/CREDIT. Zone, 8(a), Minority, and all NAL PETITION SEEKING A Unit items sold for cash to Purchasing Office (512- 268original Letters Testamentary The City of Kyle will similar firms are encouraged JUDICIAL JUDGMENT FOR the highest bidder. All Units 2141 ext. 46035) between for the Estate of Kenneth accept sealed Proposals to submit proposals on this FORECLOSURE filed in said have miscellaneous houseLee Moore, Deceased, were the hours of 8:00 a.m. and for Water and Wastewater project. Bartlett Cocke GenCourt on AUGUST 5, 2021, hold items, boxes, furniture. issued on January 14, 2022, 4:00 p.m., Monday through Impact Fee eral Contractors is an equal and said suit being numProperty includes the under Docket No. 21-0497-P, Thursday. Proposal responsUpdate until 2:00 P.M., opportunity (EEO) employer. bered 21-1872 on the docket contents of spaces of the pending In County Court at es must be returned to the February 16, 2022, in the of said Court, wherein Penfollowing tenant (s).

Law No. 3 of Hays County, HCISD Purchasing Office City’s Engineering DepartREQUEST FOR nymac Loan Services, LLC CAPRICA PRIKRYL – tire Texas, to Emily A. Johnson 21003 IH 35, Kyle, TX 78640, ment. is the Plaintiff and Brittany rim, barstools QUALIFICATIONS as Independent Executor. by the date and time indiProposals received after Wells; Tammy Pauley Gunter; DAIMEAN JOE CORREA – Hays County ESD No. 8, Claims may be presented cated above. Late Bids will this time will not be considUnknown Heirs of Brian tripod, AC Buda Central Fire Station in care of the attorney for be returned unopened. The ered.

Cook is the Defendant.

EDDIE SOTO – TVs, VacuNo. 1 is currently accepting the estate, addressed as HCISD Board of Trustees Three (3) complete bound The nature of said suit is um, Printer Request for Qualifications follows: Representative, Esreserves the right to reject copies and one (1) electronic as follows: ENFORCEMENT (RFQ) for Furniture, Fixtures, tate of Kenneth Lee Moore, any and/or all bids and waive copy (flash drive) of the OF NOTE ON PROPERTY NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE and Equipment vendors until Deceased, c/o Joseph C. qualifications are required. all formalities in the bid LOCATED AT 105 COLT 2:00 pm Tuesday, February Gagen, Attorney at Law, P.O. Of property to satisfy a Proposals are to be delivered process.”

LOOP, KYLE, TEXAS 78640 15, 2022. To obtain a copy Box 162834, Austin, Texas AND LEGALLY DESCRIBED of the RFQ contact Bob 78716-2834. All persons AS: Farmer, bfarmer@agcm.com, having claims against this PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE LOT 3, BLOCK B, SIL(512) 284-6738 or log on to estate, which is currently VERADO AT PLUM CREEK www.budafire.org for more being administered, are reThe City of Kyle received a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG-DR) Disaster SECTION lA, ACCORDING information. quired to present them within Recovery grant from the Texas General Land Office for recovery from the 2015 Flood TO THE MAP OR PLAT the time and in the manner & Storm events. The grant funding was used for the Windy Hill at Richmond Branch THEREOF, RECORDED IN prescribed by law.

Drainage Improvements. A public hearing has been called for 6:00 p.m. on January 31, NOTICE TO CREDITORS VOLUME 10, PAGE 183, 2022 via teleconference to review the program performance of the activities completed DATED: January 20, 2022 PLAT RECORDS, HAYS Notice is hereby givunder this grant. Comments are welcome. The City invites attendance of the public /S/ Joseph C. Gagen, COUNTY, TEXAS en that original Letters of hearing either through video or by phone at the following: Attorney for Applicant All as more fully appears Administration for the Estate Video with audio of record on file in this office, of Martin John Passmore, LEHMAN HS RENOVATIONS https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_ and which reference is here Deceased, were issued NGVjY2I3MWQtYjMyOC00YmFjLThkNTYtNTk4YTQ5MzQ0MDVi%40thread.v2/0?context made for all intents and on December 13, 2021, in - BID PKG. 2, =%7b%22Tid%22%3a%2201982cde-85e7-4de9-922b-335ada4892ef%22%2c%22Oid Cause No. 21-0310-P, pend- purposes.

BARTLETT COCKE GEN%22%3a%22605b0d5a-862c-4955-8f17-0e19c53b695e%22%7d ISSUED AND GIVEN UNing in the County Court at DER MY HAND AND SEAL Law of Hays County, Texas, ERAL CONTRACTORS, Or call in (audio only) of said Court at office, on to: Douglas A. Edwards CONSTRUCTION MANAG+1 512-910-3522 Phone Conference ID: 477314690# this the 12th day of January, All persons having claims ER-AT-RISK, FOR: LEHMAN La Ciudad de Kyle recibió una subvención del Programa de Desastres de la Oficina 2022. against this Estate which is General de Tierras de Texas para la recuperarse de las inundaciones y tormentas de HS RENOVATIONS REQUESTED BY: currently being administered 2015. La subvención fueron usado en las drenaje mejoras por Windy Hill en Richmond Sammy Hooda are required to present them - Bid Pkg. 2, is requesting Branch. Se ha convocado una audiencia pública para las 6:00 p.m. el 31 de Enero, Marinosci Law Group PC to the undersigned within competitive proposals from 2022 por teleconferencia para revisar el desempeño del programa de las actividades 14643 Dallas Parkway, the time and in the manner subcontractors and supplicompletadas bajo esta subvención. Los comentarios son bienvenidos. La Ciudad invita Suite 750 prescribed by law. ers. a asistir a la audiencia pública ya sea por video o por teléfono arriba.

Dallas TX 75254 c/o: Douglas A. Edwards Subcontractor and suppli972-331-2304 1401 Truxillo Street er proposals will be received For further information or assistance contact Jo Ann Garcia, Road Bond Project BEYERLY CRUMLEY Houston, Texas 77004 via Fax to (512) 326-4339 Manager at (512) 262-3949.

Hays County District Clerk or (512) 326-3990 Fax or DATED the 26th day of

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Page 10

NEWS

Hays Free Press • January 26, 2022

Destination Services Continued from pg. 1

Daugereau, council member. “We are getting closer to a million now to redo this and I was hoping for something less in cost. It’s pretty up there.”

Council member Terry Cummings echoed Daugereau’s concerns regarding costs, highlighting that the former library’s renovations would leave the historical Stagecoach House empty for some time.

“I immediately jump to we have more costs

PHOTO BY MICHAEL CARIAGA Back row, left to right are: Guy Massey, Senior Ambassador Emeritus; Colton Engler, Ambassador; Garrett Moore, Ambassador; Seth Herzog, *Senior Ambassador; Mikey Cariaga, Ambassador; Justin Hill, Ambassador; Robert Vasquez, Ambassador; Omar Rojas, Ambassador. Front row, left to right are: Alyssa Tate, Queen Emeritus; Dakota Dahlstrom, Duchess; Kamryn Medley, Duchess; Haley Ronshausen, Duchess; Madison Barbee, *Queen; Annaleah Lombardo, *Princess; Taryn Landes, Duchess; Lauren Craig, Duchess; Lizee McMillan, Duchess; Maddie Stevens, Duchess. *Queen, Princess and Senior Ambassador were awarded Buckles.

Stock Show 2022

because we can’t lose Stagecoach House,” Cummings said. “It just flows right into the need to rehabilitate that building and the cost associated with that. … I’m a lot concerned about the cost associated with this particular project for the welcome center and wondering what that’s going to mean, very shortly, for Stagecoach House because an empty building deteriorates that much faster.”

Bond Oversight Continued from pg. 1

PHOTO BY ALBERT SANCHEZ

Hays County youth compete at 76th annual livestock show

PHOTO BY ALBERT SANCHEZ

Clif Leinneweber, above one his horse Libby, won Reserve Champion Mare and was High Point Senior Speed. To the left is barrel racer Millie Powers on her horse Stormy. The Hays County Youth Livestock Show continues through this weekend at Dripping Springs Ranch Park.

must live within the incorporated limits of Buda and serve a three-year term (with availability for reappointment by the city council).

Members who are absent for three consecutive meetings will result in automatic resignation — This does not apply to an absence due to a medical reason of the commit-

tee member or member of the household, childcare for a newly born or newly adopted child, death of a family member, a scheduled vacation, business travel, school, or from an unexpected factor beyond the control of the committee member.

Members are to notify the city manager or designee in advance of an expected absence.

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 Build Prop Continued from pg. 1

addition of the Armbruster tract in the sense that it makes a more cohesive development, it is unwise on the developer’s part to put hundreds of homes on one entrance and exit that is being shared with construction traffic.

“So much of phases A, B and C are contingent on the connectivity that Armbruster allows,” McCarthy said. “To ask us to expedite an approval process … is not smart planning for us.”

While traffic was the main concern, residents and commissioners also brought up other issues such as the lack of large-housing lots offered, the removal of trees around the property and the inevitable need for a new school in the area to keep up with the explosive growth.

Commissioner Virginia Jurika said that this project is not something that Buda needs right now, and that the developer’s intent for project approval within 90 days is a “bumrush.”

“This is a very important subject, so it would be totally irresponsible on our part, or my part at least, to approve this

project,” Jurika said. “This is not looking out for the citizen’s interest. I’m a commissioner here, but I’m a citizen as well. This is going to directly impact what my quality of life is like if we accept this project as it is.”

Because it was a workshop item, no final decisions were made. Per a news release from the city, the city of Buda has not “solicited, sought or promoted this project,” but was simply exercising its

governmental authority in evaluating the proposal and providing regulatory oversight.

According to LaMarriol Smith, Buda’s director of communications, the developers are continuing to work with the city and plan to present a workshop during the Feb. 1 city council meeting. Any official approvals will have to go back through the commission and council Bailey and Armbruster tracts transportation improvements plan. Phases A, B and C are part for consideration and of the Bailey tract, while phases D, E, F and G are part of the Armbruster tract. Photo via approvals.

MileStone Community Builders.

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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