March 3, 2021 Hays Free Press

MARCH 3, 2021 STATE NEWS

MILITARY CHILD

Political fallout from winter storm continues.

Buda 17-year-old finalist for Military Child of Year.

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Vol. 126 • No. 49

Serving Hays County, TX

Villalobos resigns as county chief of staff

BY SAHAR CHMAIS AND CYNDY SLOVAK-BARTON

Alex Villalobos, Hays County top aide to the commissioners court, resigned this week, according to Pct. 4 County Commissioner Walt Smith.

No formal announcement was made, but Smith said Villalobos was pursuing other options.

Villalobos told the Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch

he has been recruited to another job, where he can continue to utilize his skillset while receiving a higher wage. He did not disclose any information about his new work.

No one will fill his position in the county, Villalobos said.

Instead of a new recruit, other staff members will take over different parts of Villalobos’ job duties.

Although this is the first time his resignation has been made public, Villalobos VILLALOBOS said it has been under discussion in the commissioners court for some time.

Villalobos was hired

as County Judge Ruben Becerra’s right hand man when Becerra took the reins of the county after the 2018 General Election.

Becerra defeated former county commissioner Will Conley, who was also running for the judge position.

Villalobos was hired as Becerra’s chief of staff, but the commissioners later changed his position so that he worked for the

entire court, not just for Becerra.

Questions were raised at the time Villalobos was hired about whether he could remain as a Kyle city council member while taking the county administrator’s job.

Kyle ruled that it was not against its charter for Villalobos to hold both positions. “... laws governing dual office holding and com-

mon law incompatibility as currently interpreted do not prevent him from serving both positions,” a statement from the city of Kyle said at the time. “Mr. Villalobos will need to recuse himself and disclose the reason for disclosure where required by the Ethics Ordinance.”

There were many ups and downs for Villalobos

VILLALOBOS RESIGNS, 8

STORM RECOVERY

Know what insurance or FEMA can do

BY SAHAR CHMAIS HAYS COUNTY – Hays County is one of the Texas counties approved under the major disaster declaration from the federal government. This opens up disaster relief programs for residents to partake in.

Before residents can receive the help they need, they must understand their eligibility in the program and how to navigate the system. Last month, State Rep. Erin Zwiener (D-45) hosted a virtual Disaster Recovery town hall to help residents.

Zwiener invited two guests to discuss options on whom to contact and where to get funds for repairs and losses. Lee Loftis, director at Independent Insurance Agents of Texas, gave insight on the private insurance side. Michelle Ziegler, a technical analyst for Rand Corporation and volunteer with Team Rubicon, gave perspective on how to receive aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and other organizations, although she does not represent FEMA.

STORM RECOVERY, 4

PHOTO COURTESY OF DRIPPING SPRINGS RELIEF Three Dripping Springs women started a Facebook page called Dripping Springs Relief which garnered more than 1,000 members either in need of help or willing to volunteer help following the winter storm.

PHOTO BY SAHAR CHMAIS

Justin of the Peace Scott Cary has served in the Pct. 5 position for 12 years. He retired Sunday.

Hanging up the robe

Cary retires from JP position

BY SAHAR CHMAIS

The walls in Justice of the Peace, Pct 5 Scott Cary’s office, speak the tales of a full and diverse lifetime. The trophies, newspapers and awards hanging on all four sides of the room tell of an athlete who dedicates countless hours to running, a husband and father who loves his family, a police officer who saved lives and a judge who serves his constituents.

But Cary will be packing up all his memorabilia as he, at the age of 67, has decided to retire and hang up his robe.

He sent in his letter of resignation on his birthday, Dec. 1.

Cary has served countless hours as a police officer, Sergeant, homicide detective, bomb squad officer, SWAT member, basketball coach for people with disabilities at Marbridge and more.

His successor, Lucinda Doyle, will have some large shoes to fill – literally and metaphorically – for Cary towers over many at six feet and two inches. Doyle has a long-standing friendship with Cary and said she knows it will take work to fill in that

position.

The two met 25 years ago, volunteering at their children’s elementary school in Buda. In the decades Doyle has known Cary, she has gotten to understand how knowledgeable he is on many subjects, given his wealth of experience.

Doyle said that Cary is a humble man with a big heart, given his long history volunteering with the school and coaching the Marbridge basketball team, winning six state championships.

It seems that Cary has fulfilled many callings

JUDGE RETIRES, 4

Vista apartment flooding amid water outage, repairs

BY SAHAR CHMAIS

Water is flowing from every crevice except through the faucets in the Vista at Plum Creek apartments. Many residents are going into their second week without fresh water, and their apartments are beginning to smell like mildew.

Some residents hit the one-week mark before their water was back on.

Residents began posting photos and videos of the flooding, with the sound of water squishing under their feet on the carpet, water going over electric boxes, soaked personal belongings and holes in walls.

Others do not have an exact date, though the apartment management said it is aiming to have repairs complete by the

PUBLIC NOTICES

See what’s really happening locally.

–Pages 7-8

end of the week.

“Our goal is to restore water to all residents

FLOODED APARTMENTS, 2

Storm Uri brings Dripping Springs closer together

BY SAHAR CHMAIS DRIPPING SPRINGS – After hearing stories of mothers feeding their children gummy bears for lunch, seeing shelves emptied out and cars getting stuck in ditches, Monica Willis could not rest.

She felt an overwhelming urge to help out her community but did not know how.

“I woke up at 1 a.m. frantic,” said Willis, a working mother in Dripping Springs, “my heart was in my toes wondering what can I do – I have to do something. It was like a burning urgency to help this community.

I reached out to my friends that love the community and their children. I knew they would help me figure it out.”

In less than 24 hours, three women, Willis, Stefanie Reinold and Catharine Layton, formed a Facebook page called Dripping Springs Relief. In a twoday span, the page had more than 1,000 members. While the storm settled over a week ago, people continue to use the page in search of help.

Dripping Springs Relief helped connect an entire community in need of help, from those who needed it to those who were giving the aid. Some were already doing these

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“we had a 70-year-old woman who was running out of wood for heat, and in 45 minutes somebody was at her door with the pile of wood. It was our community out doing this.

I am absolutely touched and moved by how people were helping.”

–Monica Willis, Dripping Springs neighbor

efforts, but now had an added way to spread the word, and some found refuge in neighbors who could lend water and food.

“People within 30 minutes were getting their help,” Willis said.

“I could not put my phone down. For example, we had a 70-yearold woman who was running out of wood for heat, and in 45 minutes somebody was at her door with the pile of wood. It was our community out doing this.

DRIPPING SPRINGS RELIEF, 2

Page 2

NEWS

Zwiener takes on education budget, public health

BY SAHAR CHMAIS

lower attendance. In Texas, school districts In a tougher than are funded based on normal budget year, attendance and not on State Rep. (D-45) Erin enrollment. COVID-19 Zwiener has been aphas made attendance pointed as the vice chair volatile due to virtuof the appropriations al school challenges, subcommittee Article 3, people moving because handling the education of lost jobs and more, budget for PreK-12 and Zwiener explained. university students.

School costs have This time-consuming gone higher and not all position is not her only of them are reimbursrole – Zwiener is also able. A big cost that is serving on the Public not reimbursable is the Health committee. She need for extra substiis the youngest memtute teachers. There ber in both of these has been an increased positions, potentially demand for substitute bringing in a diverse teachers because of perspective on student COVID-19, but because loans that Generation it is not a reimbursable X and older have not expense, schools are experienced. Both dipping into their finanpositions will come with cial reserves, Zwiener their own set of chalsaid. lenges, brought forth The challenge with by the one-year-old being on the Article 3 pandemic. board is that they can“I’m really grateful for not make new laws. this position because “I can’t go into the we have to prioritize budget document and student wellbeing,” say we’re going to switch Zwiener told the Hays from school funding Free Press/News-Disbased on attendance to patch. “We have a lot of enrollment,” Zwiener work to do to counter said. “That has to be the loss from the pandone by law. What we demic and address the can do is allocate dollars school needs. We want for things.” to make sure school Much of Zwiener’s districts stay whole time is being spent because of the expenses serving on the school from COVID.” budget committee with Some of Zwiener’s meetings that somebiggest concerns are times last eight hours. creating additional Soon, her focus will education days to make have to shift to public up for lost time and not penalizing districts for ZWIENER PRIORITIES, 8

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • March 3, 2021

Flooded Apartments Continued from pg. 1

by Friday,” said Tiffany Reynolds, senior regional manager for the apartment group. “We know that kinks happen but we are working as fast as possible to avoid any further water intrusion by not working systematically and restoring water without a plan in place.”

Residents’ outcries can be seen on social media; they began posting photos and videos of the flooding, with the sound of water squishing under their feet on the carpet, water going over electric boxes, soaked personal belongings and holes in walls.

Some residents are concerned about the health hazard.

Resident Richelle Lenoir said she is allergic to mold and said she expressed her concern to management.

To help the mold situation, Lenoir set her air conditioner to 60 degrees to control the humidity.

Then she began sleeping on her couch with the patio door open.

Lenoir’s guest room and laundry room flooded. She claims it smells like “pigs have lived here for days.”

Others are worried about what the mold will do to their kids. Sierra Gomez, another resident living in a flooded apartment who has an 18-month-old son, said she notified management about a leak in her home.

“So I called and they didn’t even ask what unit I was in, just that they will get to it,” Gomez said. “I had to leave work in North Austin to come down to the office to physically tell them. They asked what unit once I said ‘aren’t you going to ask what unit I’m in?’”

Gomez said she could not afford going to a hotel

at this time, and her family does not have room to temporarily house her.

Another resident, Joy Cuellar and her five children have been without water for one week.

Although their apartment did not flood, they were without water for a long time.

“It is stressful,” Cuellar said regarding the challenges of parenthood without water. “How do you tell a toddler not to touch something because they can’t get their hands dirty? And one of my kids is in the middle of potty training – now we can’t do that. Wipes cost money, too.”

Vista residents have begun to seek options about where to move.

Vista apartments had 260 pipe breaks, according to management, and a total of 264 apartments are in need of inspection and/ or repair. Half of the Vista apartments have had water restored throughout their six buildings.

The extensive issue is attributed to the weather plus the placement of water heaters, washers and dryers.

“Inclement weather, with the duration of time with temperatures below freezing caused damage to the water lines,” Reynolds said. “Specifically, the water heaters and washers/ dryers are located outside on the patio where there is little to no insulation from the extreme temperatures.

Communities that have their washers/dryers located outside are experiencing the same issues.”

Reynolds said that the neighboring apartment complexes in Plum Creek have their washer/dryers

distilleries in the area began to distribute water.

“Right now we are opening up our water supply for anyone in need,” Hunter Stewart, CEO of Twisted X said of their ongoing efforts to give aid.

Another business that offered a water service, although in a different manner, was Salon Mystique. Many residents were left without running water for nearly a week.

This salon decided to help in whichever way they could.

On Feb. 18, the salon opened its doors for people who needed to shampoo their hair. They began shampooing people’s hair and giving them blowouts free of charge.

In a span of two days, the salon shampooed more than 60 heads.

They also have a café in their salon, so they did a food distribution. This idea came from the salon’s co-owners, Michael and Misty Uzuanis.

The couple owns a 4x4 vehicle. When they would see a resident announce

on Facebook that they needed to shampoo their hair but could not drive anywhere, the couple would pick them up and bring them to the salon.

Salon Mystique is now offering help to residents by giving them water.

“If anybody has no water in their house,” Michael Uzuanis said, “they can come with containers and fill up on water.”

While many people have been able to resume some type of normalcy after storm Uri’s passing, many are finding their way to recovery. Willis said she continues to see members trickling into the group who are in need of financial assistance to pay for rent, some still need water and many are looking for help to get their homes fixed.

“For me, it has been amazing to be able to connect people,” Willis said. “I want to see how we can continue to connect people. If we are [in a situation] like this again, it would be simple to get everything people need.”

inside the homes, where the lines remained insulated from freezing temperatures.

In the Vista complex, when the ice began to melt and water was restored, the lines had split from the expanding water and broke, Reynolds said.

In order to repair the breaksm the water had to be turned on and off intermittently. When the water is turned on, it is to identify where the leaks are coming from, Reynolds said.

On Wednesday, Feb. 24, management finally opened up a model apartment to let residents take hot showers.

Vista residents are not the only ones facing the aftermath of the storm.

With broken pipes in many homes, businesses and apartments in Texas, stores are running short on supplies. Hays County residents have been seeking guidance all over Facebook on where they can find pipes and materials to repair breaks.

Residents who depend on wells are also having trouble finding parts for broken well pumps and other equipment.

In the meantime, community members have found dependable shoulders to lean on – each other. Businesses have been helping out across Hays County, people have been inviting each other over for a shower and some are delivering fresh water to those in need.

Dripping Springs Relief Continued from pg. 1

I am absolutely touched and moved by how people were helping.”

Other businesses, groups and churches were also helping out Dripping Springs residents. According to Willis, the Jeep Club was pulling people’s vehicles out of ditches or getting them unstuck.

The Dripping Springs Presbyterian Church opened its doors for a food exchange, provided water and more items such as toilet paper.

This church handed out grocery store gift cards to those who were economically impacted. These services proved to be necessary enough to become an ongoing effort.

“We will be expanding the effort, to have a certain amount of pantry items, for people in need,” said church pastor Mitch Kolls. “It’s still going right now; especially because people are struggling to get their wells fixed, so we are still distributing water and will continue to distribute meat on Thursdays.”

Food and water donations from the church will be available during the church’s operating hours.

Other businesses were also instrumental in getting out the help.

When COVID-19 hit, breweries were the first to step up; they shifted gears and began manufacturing hand sanitizers, which many donated to first responders. Once again, breweries came to the rescue.

Twisted X Brewing Company began supplying residents with warm meals on Feb. 20, feeding nearly 500 residents, using the help of other businesses as well. They took meals to first responders and line workers and delivered meals to the churches.

Once their feeding efforts stopped, they began providing water to residents. Many Dripping Springs homes depend on water from wells, but the freezing temperatures broke water pumps and ruined the well equipment. Twisted X along with other breweries and

Gomez spoke of the benevolence she has seen across the community.

“People at the Ariza complex offered to let people drop their clothes off,” Gomez said. “She would wash it for us and have us pick up, due to COVID. Some have offered toilet paper.”

While Gomez received help, she also found a way to give back. A family was looking for milk for their son, so Gomez gave her some. In exchange, the family helped Gomez by giving her snacks. Another woman gave Gomez drinking water. She also helped others out by giving away candles and baby wipes.

Family Elder Care has also donated water, formula, diapers, canned goods, snacks, toilet paper and more to the Vista community, Reynolds said.

The situation is continuously evolving. According to management, their goal was to restore water use for all residents by Feb. 26, but the work continues.

“Contractors, plumbers, electricians, and maintenance technicians are walking, inspecting, repairing every unit,” Reynolds told the Hays Free Press/News Dispatch on Wednesday, Feb. 24. “Each unit presents its own set of repairs but all repairs will be done to restore homes.

Water extraction and appropriate remediation measures are being taken in every unit where it is needed.”

2021 PEC Board of Directors Election

Interested in serving your community?

Consider running for a PEC Board Director seat in the district where you live. This year, districts 1, 6, and 7 are on the ballot. Nomination materials are due by 5 p.m., March 22.

Details at pec.coop/nominations.

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Opinion

QUOTE OF THE WEEK “We will be expanding the effort, to have a certain amount of pantry items, for people in need. It’s still going right now; especially because people are struggling to get their wells fixed, so we are still distributing water and will continue to distribute meat on Thursdays.”

–Mitch Kolls, pastor at Dripping Springs Presbyterian Church

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • March 3, 2021

Page 3

Texans pulling together The Kyle File

by David Abdel

sight of someone in need, the empathy felt in that moment, caused people to abandon the tenets of modern, derisive society and revert to our most sincere, selfless selves.

Innate to us is the joy in helping, in caring. It no longer mattered if you were a Democrat or Republican. The sermons you enjoy or ignore ceased to matter. The color of your skin was irrelevant. In this moment of need, you were human. As the polarizing of America seems to be pulling us further and further apart, it took devastation to center us again. I ask, can’t it remain this way?

Must we go back to criticising each other over elections, opinions and beliefs? Can we not just all agree that our humanity trumps affiliation? The hand we extend should be a grip to lift each other, not a fist to knock each other down. The common good has permeated the minds of millions over the last week, and I beg that you allow it to take root and grow. A return to civility, to decency, and to community could be the one true good that may come from this tragedy.

Lastly, for many this was the first time flirting with the edge of uncertainty, but for many of us, this is the way of life.

Grappling with the ability to keep warm, keep the lights on, provide for a family on the absolute bare minimum is not the once in a lifetime disaster but the everyday struggle. Many have now learned that the struggle is, in fact, real. Please, seek ways to continue the philanthropic spirit you’ve employed this week. Allow altruism to persist in your daily affairs. Recognize that for so many, the hardship you suffered for a few days, is a lifestyle they must endure. Help your neighbors, in any way, in every way. We are all but one bad storm from the brink, be the lighthouse and not the crashing wave.

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Sudoku puzzle courtesy of www.4puz.com

Texas faced an unprecedented challenge this week. The snowstorm that bore down on our beloved state left many without heat, power and water. Still today, cities and towns across the state are struggling to recover. Impressively, the resilience of Texans was yet again demonstrated.

Hurricanes, tornados, a pandemic and now a winter storm; Texas always forges onward.

What I believe to be most important about this, and what I believe needs to be recognized, is how we do it.

The crisis at hand has once more brought out the best in us. The news reports often detailed the difficult tconditions that we had to endure, highlighting the visually stimulating broken pipes, empty shelves and serviceless gas pumps.

For every one of those stories though, I’ve seen a handful of instances where neighbors have come together to support one another. We have seen neighbors offer space in their homes, or provisions from their cabinet to one another.

Large scale food and water distributions were conducted by charitable organizations and other entities. Electricians, plumbers, first responders and other utility personnel worked beyond overtime hours to service people as quickly and as best as possible. As has happened before, and undoubtedly will again, Texans worked to help Texans. At the surface, that is admirable and could be the takeaway, but there is something deeper to appreciate.

As neighborhood message boards began to fill up with pleas for help or offers of assistance, we never saw anyone ask “who did you vote for?”, “what faith do you serve?” or any other divisive qualifiers. By and large we cast aside our perceived differences and honed in on our shared humanity. The

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NEWS

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • March 3, 2021

Kyle fills P&Z seat Buda 17-year-old finalist for

BY MEGAN WEHRING

KYLE — The search to fill the seventh seat on the Kyle Planning & Zoning Commission is over.

Kyle City Council approved the appointment of Brandon JAMES James to fill the seat during its regular meeting on Feb. 24.

“We made an advertisement on the city’s website, through our social media and had a fantastic response rate,” said Howard Koontz, director of planning and community development. “We had a

number of great qualified individuals who wanted to take the slot of the seventh position.”

James moved to Texas from Wichita, Kansas, and has resided in the Plum Creek area of Kyle for about two years. He works as a field manager for MOVE Texas. While he previously served on a Planning and Zoning Commission in Wichita for several years, he is excited to now volunteer his time in Kyle.

“I love this community,” James said. “It’s been an amazing place to live. I have lived in quite a few places in the United States and this is by far, one of the best places I’m looking forward to serving my community effectively and to the best of my ability.”

Military Child of Year award

BY MEGAN WEHRING

place about BUDA – When Nyah every two Gray was nominated years. for the Military Child of Gray’s the Year Award, she did father not expect to become a was killed finalist. in action “I’m actually surprised in 2012. that I made it this far,” In 2016, GRAY Gray said. “I think it’s Gray’s pretty amazing. I never mother realized what could married an Air Force come of this sort of Civil Engineer, which thing.” was a job that required Experiences of military more community children vary. When her involvement than travel. biological father served “My biological dad in the U.S. Air Force, would travel a whole lot Gray and her family more,” Gray said. “He moved from place to would be on temporary

duty for weeks at a time and then come back for a while. Then I had a whole other experience with my stepdad. He was involved with things close by where we live.”

Currently, Gray is an an Austin Community College dual enrollment homeschooler. Gray is still deciding on a specific college but she is looking to study interdisciplinary studies and languages. She also plans to travel abroad when she can.

Operation Homefront announced 32 finalists for the Military Child

of the Year award, five for each branch of the armed forces.

Recipients will be judged on their scholarship, volunteerism, leadership, extracurricular involvement and other criteria as they face challenges of military family life.

The final seven award recipients will be announced in March and each will receive $10,000, a laptop and other donated gifts. A celebration program is currently scheduled for April 8, 2021; details will be released in March.

be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one's lifetime,” wrote Mark Twain.

After serving as JP5 in Hays County for 12 years where he was on call 24/7, Cary can finally relax and see more of the world without worrying about which event he will be pulled out of or which vacation might be cut short.

He and his wife, Merry Cary, will get a recreational vehicle (RV) to travel all around the U.S.

The couple will also have more time to visit their daughter in California and their other daughter and grandchildren in Conroe.

“This has always been a pretty corny saying people say – ‘the next chapter,’ but I’m really looking forward to the next chapter,” Cary said with his robust voice. “I don’t know what it’s going to hold. But it’s just time for me to retire… it’s time for me to move aside and let someone else take over.”

Judge Retires Continued from pg. 1

in his lifetime, but he did not always have that direction. When he first went to junior college on a football scholarship, Cary was unsure what he wanted to do. Eventually he found his way into the police department and let the athleticism follow him in every step of the way, even when it stopped being part of his job.

His volunteerism spans beyond coaching the Marbridge basketball team; he is a Hays YMCA board of director, member of Buda Lions Club and a member of the Buda Area Chamber of Commerce. And in 2019, Cary was called on to become a trainer for the Texas Justice Court Training Center, where all JPs in Texas do their training. This achievement is one Cary was particularly proud of, but it was cut short by the COVID-19 pandemic and eventually was moved online.

Even on the job, Cary

finds creative ways to incorporate work and a physical workout. In 1995, there was a string of robberies in Austin on Town Lake’s hike and bike trail.

Cary devised a program to get off-duty police officers to run on the trail and in return he would compensate their time while they get in a workout. Within two months, the robbers were caught.

Cary’s creative solution won him a golden shoe, which hangs high on his office wall.

Beneath the shoe sit pictures and more showing another part of Cary’s life, unrelated to his work – a passion for travel.

Cary has hiked in many continents and plans to visit more. From the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu, to Spain, Germany, the Great Wall of China and the bottom of the Grand Canyon, Cary has seen the highs and lows of the world.

PHOTO BY DAVID WHITE

Buda attorney Lucinda Doyle was sworn in as the new Hays County, Pct. 5 judge. She was sworn in by her father and former Pct. 5 judge Lamont Ramage. Outgoing Pct. 5 judge Scott Cary is on the left.

His favorite place, which warranted a second visit with his wife, was Machu Picchu.

“It’s like going to Disney World. It’s all manmade; it seems impossible,” Cary spoke of the experience.

“Hiking to Machu Picchu is a four-day trip. You go up almost 15,000 feet and come down into Machu Picchu and it’s a very spiritual experience.”

Cary’s travels are very

well fitting of his job. He drew on a Mark Twain quote which states that travel is necessary for humans to understand one another and opens the eyes.

"Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot

FEMA will also help with rental assistance and transitional sheltering assistance. If a resident is living in an unsafe environment, they can sign up to be placed in a hotel or other temporary housing, Ziegler said.

Depending on the insurer, there are some provisions for temporary housing, Loftis said.

The process, from claim to fix, will take some time. According to Loftis, it is too early to know how long it will take for inspections to be done or when adjusters will come out. If the claim was reported sometime last week, the client should expect a call by early next week, Loftis estimated.

Some companies have been doing a virtual walkthrough to speed up the process, Loftis noted.

It should take no more than 10 days before the applicant hears from a FEMA inspector and then no more than 10 days between the inspector coming out and making the decision, Ziegler said.

Sometimes a person can get rejected from receiving aid, but they can appeal that decision.

• For FEMA sheltering assistance, visit www. fema.gov/assistance/ individual/shelteringhousing-options • For more governmental assistance, visit www. disasterassistance.gov

Storm Recovery Continued from pg. 1

Given the magnitude of the disaster, which affected 254 counties, the process from beginning to end will take longer than a typical insurance claim.

A rule of thumb in the claims process: a person must first make their claim with their home insurance agency. If they do not have one, or if the damage is not covered by their private agency, that is when a person can continue to seek help from FEMA. After a disaster, the first thing a person should do is mitigate further damage, Loftis said, such as shutting off the water.

The next step would be to report the claim as quickly as possible and take photos and videos.

After notifying insurance, an adjuster should be in touch within three to four days, Loftis said. If the agent does not get back in touch, the person should reach out again and make sure their case did not fall through the cracks.

Since this is not an easy process, Ziegler and Loftis gave tips on how to get the best possible aid.

Loftis suggests that a person takes photos of everything that has been damaged. Even if it is carpet that will eventually get thrown away, it is best to document the damage.

The more context in the photos and videos, the better, Ziegler said.

It is best to get an overall photo of the full wall, for example, and not just part of it. For an extra measure of thoroughness, it may be best to turn on location settings when taking the photos as proof that the damage took place in the resident’s home.

Part of documenting the process means saving receipts; if repairs were made before insurance got involved, save the receipts.

Knowing about delays in the insurance process, some people will, or have already, gotten repairs done. The insurance companies should compensate people for plumbing repairs, Loftis said.

But once the home is livable, a person should wait to finish the repairs. As far as replacing carpeting or fully reconstructing the home, it is better to wait until the adjuster has given some direction, Loftis said. In either case, it is best to communicate with an adjuster as soon as possible, he added.

Loftis also asked people to manage their expectations by knowing this storm has stretched resources thin. That includes fewer adjusters, fewer plumbers and a shortage of contractors.

The process through FEMA will differ from that of a private insurance company. FEMA may refer the applicant to a governmental loan agency to get a low impact disaster loan.

Many people feel that they are being brushed off so they never finish applying, Ziegler said. She points out that until the applicant gets the loan or gets denied, FEMA cannot do anything else.

Whichever direction the applicant gets sent in, Ziegler encourages them to finish the process.

Oftentimes, it may not seem that a person has gotten enough funds to repair all their damages using FEMA, Ziegler said.

This is because FEMA will give enough funds to ensure that a home is habitable, nothing more, she explained.

If a den is still damaged, but it is not crucial to habitability, it will not be factored into the amount awarded, Ziegler said.

HERE ARE SOME RECOVERY RESOURCES:

• For FEMA disaster assistance, visit www. fema.gov/assistance • For Crisis Clean Up, a one-stop-shop for assistance from non-profit organizations visit www. crisiscleanup.org

We proudly support our hometown teams

To learn more from Ziegler and Loftis, watch the full video on the Facebook page: Erin Zwiener, Texas State Representative.

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Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • March 3, 2021

COMMUNITY

Page 5

OBITUARIES DAHLSTROM

arrowheads and kept a beautiful collection. Tom was a member Tom Philip Dahlof Bethany Lutheran Church. His strom, 66, died on legacy of loyalty and his knowledge Thursday, February and quiet disposition will be missed 25, 2021 in Buda, greatly. His final resting place will be Texas. next to his beloved daughter, Sarah, at He is reunited in Masonic Cemetery on Circle S in Ausheaven with his two tin. Pallbearers are Scott Dahlstrom, daughters, Sarah LorTy Dahlstrom, Robert Dahlstrom, raine Dahlstrom who Tim Dahlstrom, Blaze Hatchett and died in 1996 and Layla Dahlstrom Miguel Ramos Jr. Honorary PallbearAdams who died in 2010; his parents, ers are Axton Click, Huxley Hatchett, Charles and Peggy Dahlstrom, and his Parker Rux and Mack Crow. sister Joyce Marie Gaddis.

Survivors include his granddaugh- PERKINS ter Casady and husband Tucker Click, Donna Marice two great-grandbabies Layla Kate and Durham Perkins, a Axton Brice Click all of Lingleville, dedicated mother, brother Carl and wife Donna Dahlwife, grandmother, strom of Buda, brother Roy and wife Ruth Dahlstrom of Austin, niece Erica and best friend with a kind heart and gentle Shield of Austin, niece Leigh Anne spirit, passed away Dahlstrom of Bastrop, nephew Scott Sunday, February 28, and wife Shannon of Buda, niece 2021 in Buda Texas at Lisa and husband Thomas Rux of the age of 65.

San Antonio, niece Kiley Ramos of Donna was born to Rita and DonBastrop, numerous great-nieces and ald Durham in Austin Texas on March great-nephews, cousins and extended 11, 1955. She was one of five children. family.

Donna, being born and raised in AusTom P. Dahlstrom, was born July 18, tin, absorbed and exuded everything 1954 in Austin. He graduated from Del representing Austin’s lifestyle. She Valle High School in 1972. He enrolled loved to laugh, displayed a gentle in Southwest Texas State University kindness as well as a fiery presence in the Fall of 1972 and committed to that did not nix words. When Donna serve his country through the U.S. would state, “Put that in your pipe Air Force in 1973 and was honorably and smoke it”, you knew you were discharged in 1976. Tom was modeled in trouble. She was a best friend and by his parents the love for country, could talk for hours. She was a conficommunity and family. dant who never spilled the secrets of Tom’s greatest joy in life was to be others. Donna was warm and loving. a Dad and a Granddad. He lived in When she loved you, you knew you downtown Buda and worked for Ped- were truly loved. Donna was a talenternales Electric Cooperative for more ed painter who appreciated many than 28 years before retiring in 2011. forms of artwork, she enjoyed putting After retiring from PEC, he became together puzzles, journaling, tending the primary caretaker of his parents her flower garden, bird watching, in Fredericksburg and volunteered as and taking care of her dog, Stormy. the caretaker of Live Oak Cemetery She loved tulips and found the value in Manchaca where he provided deof a simple red rose. Donna had a votion and service to those who lost big heart. She had much concern for their loved ones. her loved ones and friends. Donna He was the family historian and prayed for everyone and exemplified loved genealogy and history. His forgiveness. research found that our GGGGrandfaDonna is survived by her husther, John Gladden King, fought in the band Daniel Perkins, her children; Battle of Medina in 1813 and King’s Tonya Voudouris, Crystal Gilpin son, William Philip King, went in his and her husband Johnnie, Kimberly father’s place as one of “The Immortal Voudouris and Chris Voudouris and 32” from Gonzales who answered Col. her beloved dog Stormy, as well as her William Travis’ letter from the Alamo. grandchildren: Micah, William, Skyler, William Philip King, who was Tom’s Preston, DeVanie, Aschley, Zachary, name sake, was the youngest Alamo Jessica, Shiii, Baby John, Carly, Emdefender and died serving his country erson, Bambi Jeanine, and Avianna, manning a canon on the Alamo wall. including 6 great-grandchildren.

Tom was proud and honored for our Donna was preceded in death by her family to be a direct descendent of brother Don “Bubba” Durham. Don“The Immortal 32” and an Alamo na also leaves behind her siblings: defender.

Karen Scott, Roy Durham, and wife Tom joined the Sons of ConfedHolly Durham and Gaylon Durham erate Veterans, through Col. Sydney and wife Pauli Durham. Pallbearers Drake Jackman Camp No. 977 as a di- are as followed Chris Voudouris, Roy rect descendant of Major Lee Russell Durham, Gaylon Durham, Micah Sutof the 22nd North Carolina Infantry. ton, Larry Clopton, and Chris Garza.

He served many years as the camp Please keep Donna’s family in your commander. prayers as they heal from their loss.

He loved quiet walks, collecting Please join us in celebrating Don-

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

Sharron Starr Ross Vaught, dedicated mother and grandmother and rock of her family who would sacrifice everything for her children and grandchildren, died gracefully following a lengthy decline from Alzheimer’s disease, in San Marcos, on Feb. 26, 2021 at the age of 76.

Sharron was born to Eloise and Walla Easley in Zanesville, Ohio on April 15, 1944. She was one of nine children. Following marriage, she and her family moved to California where she spent many years. There, she began her career in the aerospace industry working at Lockheed as a comptroller. After moving to Texas 35 years ago, she went to work for the Scooter Store where she worked until 2011. Sharron was a collector. She had a passion for CocaCola memorabilia and artifacts. She collected everything from Christmas ornaments to still-full bottles of Coke. She loved to travel, enjoyed her weekend trips gambling and walking on beaches. She did not really care for the water but loved the sand and the ankle-deep lapping of water. Sharron had a penchant for ice cream before bedtime, considering it important bonding time with her cherished grandchildren. She loved purple roses and Christmas music, especially if sung by Elvis. Sharron had a big heart and would sacrifice without complaint to make sure her children and grandchildren were taken care of.

Sharron is survived by her loving children: Jim Mahon and his wife Teri, Patty Manco, John Mahon and his wife Amelia and, Stefanie Dougherty and her husband Thomas. She will also be missed by her 10 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, six of her siblings, and a large extended family.

A celebration of Sharron’s life will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 6 in the chapel of Harrell Funeral Home in Kyle. Sharron will be laid to rest at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio.

Memories and photos may be shared at her online webpage at www. harrellfuneralhomes.com In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Sharron’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org

512-504-3637 1180 Seton Pkwy, Ste 425 Seton Hays Medical Office Building

Full-Circle Aftercare Fast. Simple. Safe.

Keeping you safe by simplifying the next steps after a loss.

The staff at Harrell Funeral Homes provide each family we serve with aftercare help.

You can stay safe at home, and we will help you complete all the non-legal tasks and notifications over the phone in as few as 1 to 3 days.

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

BAPTIST

Southern Hills Church of Christ 3740 FM 967, Buda

The Connection Church 1235 S. Loop 4, Buda

EPISCOPAL

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

Manchaca Baptist Church Lowden Lane & FM 1626 Immanuel Baptist Church 4000 E. FM 150, 4 miles east of Kyle Center Union Baptist Church Goforth Rd., Buda Primera Mision Bautista Mexicana Kyle Baptist Church of Driftwood 13540 FM 150 W. CATHOLIC Santa Cruz Catholic Church 1100 Main Street, Buda St. Anthony Marie Claret Church 801 N. Burleson, Kyle

Texas Crossword, from page 3

KIDSDENTALSMILES.COM

VAUGHT

ASSEMBLIES OF GOD

Southeast Baptist Church 5020 Turnersville Rd., Creedmoor

Texas Crossword Solution

• Locally owned and operated • Board certified pediatric dentists • Treating kids 6 months to 18 years old • Convenient appointment times • Safe & fun environment

512-268-8200 HarrellFuneralHomes.com

Come worship with us

Sledge Chapel Missionary Baptist Church 709 Sewell, Kyle

Sudoku Puzzle, from page 3

na’s Amazing life at 1 p.m. on Thursday, March 4, 2021 at Harrell Funeral Home in Kyle. A viewing will be held at 12 p.m. until 1 p.m. Interment will follow at Onion Creek Memorial Park in Austin.

Memories and photos of Donna may be shared on her online webpage at www.harrellfuneralhomes.com

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 Kyle United Methodist Church Sledge & Lockhart St., Kyle

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

Journey United Methodist 4301 Benner Rd, Kyle, Tx

CHRISTIAN

St. Paul’s United Methodist Church 7206 Creedmoor Rd., Creedmoor

Mission Fellowship Church 200 San Marcos Street, Buda

Spring Water!

Privately owned From local springs FREE DELIVERY 1ST 20 GAL. FREE

Vertical Chapel 400 Old Post Road, Kyle A Fountain of Life Church 302 Millenium Dr. Kyle

Friendly, Courteous Service

Fellowship Church at Plum Creek 160 Grace Street at 2770, Kyle

Call 1-866-691-2369

Word of Life Christian Faith Center 118 Trademark Drive, Buda

BUDA

Por Tu Gracia Fellowship 701 Roland Lane, Kyle

DRUG STORE

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

PENTECOSTAL Mision de Casa de Oracion S. Hwy. 81, Kyle New Life Sanctuary Kyle Science Hall Elementary 1510 Bebee Rd. PRESBYTERIAN

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

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.

www.hayshills.org 1401 N. FM 1626

Pure Texas

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

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

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

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

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

New Life Christian Church 2315 FM 967, Buda

Baptist Church

Like us on Facebook

Trinity United Chuch of Niederwald 13700 Camino Real, Hwy. 21, Niederwald

METHODIST

Hays Hills

TEXAS LEHIGH CEMENT CO. LP

Nursery Provided

www.firstbaptistbuda.com • fbcbuda@austin.rr.com

Your Hometown McDonald’s

McDonald’s of Buda 15359 IH-35, Ste. B • P.O. Box 1364, Buda, TX 78610

512-312-2383

Locally owned and operated by Jimmy and Cindi Ferguson

Sunset Canyon Baptist Church 8:45 AM

Sunday Morning

11:00 AM

Sunday Worship

5:45 PM

Wednesday Meal

6:30 PM

Wed TouchPoint SCBC Preschool Children Ministries Youth Ministries Family Ministries

A Family of Faith... www.sunsetcanyonchurch.org

(512) 894-0480

4000 E. HWY 290

Page 6

NEWS

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • March 3, 2021

Political fallout from winter storm continues

As Texans across the state continue to deal with the damage from the mid-February winter storm, so does the political fallout in Austin.

So far, seven of the 16 board members of the Electric Reliability Council of Texas have resigned. CEO Bill Magness defended ERCOT’s decision to order widespread blackouts while testifying before a joint hearing of two state House committees last week.

Meanwhile, the Public Utility Commission, which oversees ERCOT, says it has opened an investigation into retail electric providers whose flexible pricing plans inflicted electric bills in the thousands of dollars on some Texas customers in the wake of the storm. In a televised address on Wednesday, Gov. Greg Abbott said he had ordered that Texans will not have their power shut off because of unpaid bills until the

the equipment would fail.”

Additional hearings are scheduled this week in the Texas Senate.

Capital Highlights

by Gary Borders

MORE COUNTIES ADDED TO MAJOR DISASTER Legislature has had time DECLARATION to act. He acknowledged that power generation from all sources failed under the harsh weather, including natural gas, coal, nuclear, wind and solar. Abbott has made it a legislative priority to mandate and fund winterizing the Texas power infrastructure.

However, the head of Irving-based Vistra energy testified at last week’s committee hearing that winterizing power plants could backfire in summer months. According to the Texas Standard, Curt Morgan said, “We don’t put structures around our equipment down here. Why? Because in the summer when it’s 105 degrees you’d bake inside there;

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has added an additional 31 Texas counties to the federal disaster declaration, making a total of 108 counties covered.

Abbott originally asked that all 254 Texas counties be included. Texans across the state are urged to fill out a form to help the state identify damages that occurred during the storm, which can be accessed at: https://tdem.texas.gov/ warming-center/.

FREE LEGAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE FOR LOWINCOME PERSONS AFFECTED BY STORM The State Bar of Texas, American Bar Association and legal aid

providers remind Texans that free legal assistance is available through a toll-free hotline to help folks pursue government benefits, insurance claims, home repairs and other issues.

The hotline – 800-5047030 – is available in English, Spanish and Vietnamese. It connects low-income callers with local legal aid providers.

band devices and Wi-Fi hotspots, using funds from the Texas Education Agency, local school districts, businesses and federal funding.

A bipartisan group of 88 Texas legislators in November recommended that the state create a comprehensive broadband plan and establish a state broadband office.

Jennifer Harris is state program director of Connected Nation Texas, PUSH TO EXPAND BROADBAND CONTINUES which partners with private and public entities The latest issue of to push for expansion of Fiscal Notes from the broadband. She noted, state comptroller’s office “The pandemic has provides a comprehenshown everyone how sive look at the issue important broadband is. of expanding broadTen years ago, we had to band, which Abbott tell people why broadmade an emergency band would be good for legislative priority item the community. We don’t in early February. The need to tell anyone that COVID-19 pandemic anymore.” accelerated demand for broadband Internet PLUMES OF SMOKE IN A service as schools went virtual and telemedicine FOREST NOT ALWAYS A became more common. SIGN OF WILDFIRE As of January, educaWhen you see smoke tors had paid for more rising from a forest, than 4.5 million broadparticularly in rural

areas, it’s not always wildfire. It could be a prescribed burn, according to the Texas A&M Forest Service.

That has become one of the most effective tools for land management, according to TFS, as it eliminates fuel for actual wildfires.

Landowners interested in learning how to safely conduct a prescribed burn can get technical guidance from TFS. Grants are also available to help pay for the burns. This website provides more information: https:// tfsweb.tamu.edu/ PrescribedBurns/.

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

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Financial Planning• Insurance Planning Investment Planning Financial Planning• Insurance Planning Investment Planning

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Professional Office Home and RV Service in north Hays Co. Consulting Setup Training Backups Upgrades

Computer Systems Software Development Networking Technical Systems Maintenance

Component Selection Digital Photos System & Process Docs Website Maintenance CD/DVD Duplication

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For all the latest news in Hays County, visit

www.HaysFreePress.com or

www.HaysNewsDispatch.com To subscribe call 512-268-7862 or email paper@haysfreepress.com

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BUSINESS LAW/ WILLS/TRUSTS/ PROBATE/FAMILY LAW/DIVORCE/ CUSTODY/ CONSUMER LAW/ DECEPTIVE TRADE PRACTICES ACT/ PROPERTY LAW/ LANDLORD-TENANT LAW/PERSONAL INJURY/DWI/ CRIMINAL DEFENSE/ DEBT/DEFENSE/ GENERAL CIVIL LITIGATION

Plumbing

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Serving Hays County since 1990

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MC • Visa

Pool Service Over 10 years of experience Keith Miller, owner

Remodeling & Repairs

Septic Services

Wild West Remodeling

ALL AMERICAN SEPTIC SOLUTIONS, LLC

One Time & Weekly Cleanings Drain & Cleans Pressure Washing Full Service Repairs HIGH TIDE Pool Replastering POOL SERVICE FREE ESTIMATES HIGHTIDEPOOLSERVICE@YAHOO.COM HIGHTIDEPOOLSERVICE.COM

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O Painting O Tile O Siding O Decks

O Trim O Door & Window Replacement O Drywall Repair O Custom Cabinets O Patio Covers O Electrical & Plumbing

Curtis Dorsett 512-402-4704

“No Job Too Small or Too Big”

Locally serving our community since 1982.

Septic Problems... LET US HELP!

www.ALLSEPTICCHECK.com

Septic Repair & Installation Specialist Septic Tank Pumping & Servicing

Tank Lid Replacements & Tank Refurbishing

Aerobic System Servicing

Septic Inspections & Consulting

Aerobic Licensed Maintenance Provider

Fully Licensed & Insured For Your Protection

Hydrojetting & Pump Replacements

Shoe Repair

Septic Services

SELLMAN ENTERPRISES, INC. (512)

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• Boot Experts • Purse Repair • Belt Repair • Luggage Repair • Shoe Care Products

AustinShoeHospital.com

SELLMAN ENTERPRISES, INC. Serving the Hays Metro area, including Travis, Blanco, Bastrop, Williamson & surrounding counties.

www.SellmanSepticServices.com

G&S

Serving S. Austin, Dripping Springs, Driftwood, Kyle and Buda since 1994.

Pool and Spa Service

Commercial & Residential

locations in in 10 locations Central Texas Texas, including: 1010Locations in Central Texas including: including: 1911 Manchaca • 512-440-8788 3932Ben RR White 620 S.and in Bee Caves Rd • 512-263-4630 316 Round Rock Ave. Round Rock 512-244-9124 12119 and Nutty • 512-827-3398 1911 W W. Hwy Ben 290 White Blvd. in Brown Austin Rd • 512-440-8788 306WSouth Park 6781 HwyBell 290 in Hill- •512-219-8387 512-288-6386 3300 Bee Caves Rd.Cedar in Oak Westlake • 512-329-8104

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Computer Help

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Tree Service

Lees Trees

38 years experience in the hill country Firewood • Pruning • Removal • Chipping Planting • Cedar Posts • Bulk Mulch

Free Assessments & Estimates • Insured MARCUS LEES (512) 858-4018 leestreestexas@gmail.com

Classifieds Hays Free Press • March 3, 2021

EMPLOYMENT

PUBLIC NOTICES

SERVICES CITY OF BUDA LEGAL NOTICE

DIRECT CARE COUNSELORS Provide positive role modeling, structure, and supervision to adolescent boys. No exp. required, We train comprehensively. Pay starting at $12 per hour for flexible 8 & 16 hr shift schedules.

Health/life/dental insurance after 60 days. Min. requirements: Must be 21 yrs old, HS/GED, clean TDL, clean criminal history, pre-employment TB skin test, and drug screen. Growing (20+ year old) non-profit organization. www.pegasusschool.net.

Call (512)432-1678 for further information.

Family owned & operated since 1958

Downtown Kyle Next door to CVS 512-268-9995

CAREGIVER NEEDED

Central, southeast Austin. $10/hour. Full time and Part time available. For interview, call 512-486-0931.

TEXAS DISPOSAL SYSTEMS

TDS IS NOW HIRING! Find your career with us.

Opportunities Include: Landscape Workers, CDL Drivers, Wash Technicians, Mechanics, Labor Positions and more.

Visit our website www.texasdisposal.com/careers to view and apply! For more information call 512-329-1778 TEXAS STATEWIDE ADVERTISING NETWORK

Sign-On Bonus Available* *Certain positions

FOR RENT TRAILER FOR RENT IN BUDA Late model 30’ Trailer, $750 month.

Water and electricity paid. Contact Toby (512) 552-6106.

Single male or couple only.

Page 7

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, pursuant to City of Buda Charter, Article III, Section 3.11 (D).

Ordinances, that the Buda City Council, at its regular meeting on February 22, 2021, adopted the ordinance amending Appendix A Fee Schedule for activities related to the Parks and Recreation Department, specifically Article A7.00 Facilities, Parks & Recreation (b)(3) (D); and, at its regular meeting on March 2, 2021, adopted the ordinance amending Appendix A Fee Schedule ratifying and suspending certain activities related to utility disconnects and waiving utility late fees and trade permit fees, specifically Article A4.00 Building and Development, (l); Article A4.00 Building and Development, (mm); and, Ordinance No. 080415-1; providing for penalties for failure to comply with such ordinance(s); providing for publication; and, providing for an effective date.

By: Mayor Lee Urbanovsky.

Attest: Alicia Ramirez, City Clerk. (full text is available in the Office of the City Clerk, City Hall, 405 E. Loop Street, Building 100, Buda, TX, during business hours and on www. ci.buda.tx.us.)

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The Buda City Council will hold a public hearing regarding the following item at its regular meeting to be held Tuesday, March 23, 2021: SUP 20-05, Specific Use Permit application for a Car Wash, Full Service in the B3 (Interstate 35 Business) zoning district within the Gateway Corridor Overlay District for the property known as Cabela’s Section Three, Block B, Lot 7A, City of Buda, Hays County, TX. The property is addressed as 310 Old San Antonio Road, Buda, TX 78610.

The meeting will be held in the Council Chambers at 405 E. Loop St., Bldg. 100 Buda, TX, but may be held virtually, please check the City of Buda website (www.ci.buda.tx.us) for details.

REQUEST FOR BIDS

Plum Creek Conservation District is accepting bids for ground application of fertilizer and herbicide to approximately 598 acres on 24 flood control structures. Approximately 296 acres to be applied around the 1st of April and 302 acres to be applied around the 1st of May. Bid information can be found at https://pccd. org/job-bids For more information, call 512-398-2383. Respond on or before noon on March 16th, 2021. Send bids to PO Box 328, Lockhart, TX 78644.

PCCD reserves the right to evaluate bids and to reject all bids.

SUMMARY FOR SERVICE BY PUBLICATION BY THE HAYS FREE PRESS

On or about February 23, 2019, Plaintiffs Oscar and Otilia Ysassi, Indv. and A/N/F next friends of Clarissa and Jelena Ysassi were operating their car on River Road approaching Highway 80, in San Marcos, Hays County, Texas, when Carey Jon Robbins, operating a motor vehicle slammed into the side of the Ysassi vehicle.

Plaintiffs, as a result of the collision, sustained injuries and damages for which they sue. Cary John Robbins was operating a vehicle owned by Shawn P Robbins. Petition has been filed for this personal

injury/auto accident lawsuit number 20-2920 of which Carey John and Shawn P. Robbins are Defendants.

Respectfully submitted, DAVIS LAW FIRM 10500 Heritage Blvd., Suite 102 San Antonio, Texas 78216 Telephone: (210) 444-4444 Telefax: (210) 870-1581 Email: desireem@davislaw. com /s/ Desiree Marrufo

By DESIREE MARRUFO State Bar No. 24046351 Attorney for Plaintiffs

ofkyle.com/rfps and are also available from the office of the City Secretary, 100 W. Center St., Kyle, Texas.

The City reserves the right to accept or reject any and all proposals and to accept only those proposals which are in the best interest of the City of Kyle.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON AMENDMENTS OF WASTEWATER LAND USE ASSUMPTIONS, CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAND AND IMPACT FEES

REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SEALED PROPOSAL Notice is hereby given CONSTRUCTION OF HEROES pursuant to Texas Local MEMORIAL PARK

The City of Kyle’s TIRZ #2 is seeking competitive sealed proposals for construction of the Heroes Memorial Park.

The Heroes Memorial Park includes a Memorial Garden, Cascade Garden, Art Garden, Family Garden, Peace Garden, Web Garden, Heroes Walk, other landscaping and connection to the Kyle Cultural Trail.

Competitive Sealed Proposals shall be marked with HEROES MEMORTIAL PARK RFP in the bottom left of the envelope and then addressed to Office of the City Secretary, City of Kyle, TX. Physical copies (1) original, (2) copies and (1) digital copy to be delivered to the office of the City Manager, 100 W. Center St. Kyle, Texas 78640 until 2:00 P.M. on Tuesday, March 30, 2021, and then considered by City Council in Executive session under Section 551.087, Texas Government Code.

Details of what the City seeks may be secured from the City website www.cityofkyle.com/rfps and are also available from the office of the City Secretary, 100 W. Center St., Kyle, Texas.

The City reserves the right to accept or reject any and all proposals and to accept only those proposals which are in the best interest of the City of Kyle.

REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SEALED PROPOSAL CONSTRUCTION OF UPTOWN CENTRAL PARK

The City of Kyle’s TIRZ #2 is seeking competitive sealed proposals for construction of the Uptown Central Park. The Uptown Central Park includes a Pavilion, Water Features, Rain Gardens, Playgrounds, Volleyball, Dog Park, and other landscaping.

Competitive Sealed Proposals shall be marked with UPTOWN CENTRAL PARK RFP in the bottom left of the envelope and then addressed to Office of the City Secretary, City of Kyle, TX. Physical copies (1) original, (2) copies and (1) digital copy to be delivered to the office of the City Secretary, 100 W. Center St. Kyle, Texas 78640 until 2:00 P.M. on Tuesday, March 30, 2021, and then considered by City Council in Executive session under Section 551.087, Texas Government Code.

Details of what the City seeks may be secured from the City website www.city-

Government Code, Chapter 395 that the Board of Directors of the County Line Special Utility District will hold a public hearing at its regular meeting, open to the public, on Monday, April 19, 2021, at 6:30 p.m., located at the County Line Special Utility District Office, 8870 Camino Real, Uhland, Texas 78640.

The purpose of the hearing is to consider the amendment of the land use assumptions and capital improvements plan and the imposition of wastewater impact fees. Any member of the public has the right to appear at the hearing and present evidence for or against the plan and proposed fee.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of Bonnie Jean Flemming, Deceased, were issued on February 1, 2021, in Cause No. 21-0017-P, pending in the County Court at Law Hays County, Texas, to: Wendy Lynn Raby and Sheila A. Del’Homme.

All persons having claims against this Estate which is currently being administered are required to present them to the undersigned within the time and in the manner prescribed by law.

Wendy Lynn Raby and Sheila A. Del’Homme, Co-Independent Executors c/o: Fay Cliett Gillham, Attorney at Law 516 West Hopkins Street, Suite A San Marcos, Texas 78666 DATED the day of , 2021. /s/: Fay Cliett Gillham Fay Cliett Gillham, State Bar No. 04382170 516 West Hopkins Street, Suite A San Marcos, Texas 78666 Telephone: (512) 392-3300 Fax: (512) 392-3334 E-mail: faygillham@austin. rr.com Attorney for Wendy Lynn Raby & Sheila A. Del’Homme

FIRST NOTIFICATION OF VEHICLE STORAGE

At Commercial Towing Services, 512-995-0468, 228-A Edwards Drive, Kyle TX, 78640, 0655460VSFKyle. 1999 Nissan Sentra XE 4-Dr Sedan VIN: 1N4AB41D0XC729122. IMPOUND DATE: 02/27/2021. AMOUNT DUE $411.02.

PUBLIC NOTICES, 8

LEGAL NOTICE

Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission for a (1) Mixed Beverage Restaurant Permit with FB, (2) Food and Beverage Certificate and (3) Beverage Cartage Permit by Taste Tindol Restaurant Incorporated L.L.C. to be located at 116 N. Main, Buda, Hays County, TX 78610. Owner Tamra Tindol.

NOTICE OF REVISED PLAT Project name: Belterra Plat – Lot 3G-1 and 3H Mailing date: 01/28/2021 Project location: Belterra Commercial Subdivision Please be advised that Replat of Lot 3G-1, amended plat of Lot 3G North Belterra Commercial Subdivision and Lot 3H, Block “B” Final Plat of the Resubdivision No. 3 of North Belterra Commercial Subdivision, recorded in document number 20022174 and document number 18019064 is being replated to create a new lot configuration. With the replat, Lot 3G-1 and 3H will be converted into one lot, Lot 3G-1. Please see the attached plat for details.

The property falls within the following jurisdictions/service areas: Water: Hays County WCID No. 1 Wastewater: Hays County WCID No. 1 Electric: Pedernales Electric Cooperative Emergency Service District: ESD No. 6 – North Hays County Fire Rescue, Hays County Development Services and the City of Dripping Springs is reviewing this development application to ensure that it is in compliance with applicable regulations. For more information please contact the project’s owner or agent.

Owner’s name: Belterra Hospitality, LLC and Belterra Lot 3H, Ltd. Owner’s phone number: 512-968-6141 Agent’s name: Natalia Garau, P.E. Agent’s phone number: 737-202-3214

Page 8

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • March 3, 2021

HCISD pushes credit recovery Brett Miksch, Johnson High principal, said they are stressing the importance of students coming back to campus again since in-person students are having more success.

BY MEGAN WEHRING

PHOTO BY ALBERT SANCHEZ

Tigers triumph over Champion

The Dripping Springs High School soccer team (14-0-3) hosted Boerne-Champion High School (12-4) on Friday night. The Tigers won the game 3 to 1. Pictured is Jr. Adam Knutson (2) jumping high and attempting a header in lots of traffic during the second half of the game.

Zwiener Priorities Continued from pg. 2

health issues when that committee begins to meet.

In this position, she will aid in overseeing medical and healthcare issues in the state. Zwiener said she is excited to serve on this committee, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We have an opportunity to make our infrastructure more robust,”

Zwiener said, “and have a strong reaction to be more prepared.”

And of course the job will come with its challenges. Zwiener said one of the biggest challenges the state and legislature have is with COVID-19 response.

Zwiener believes that coming from a family with many connections in the

medical world made her medically literate. She has also followed the pandemic closely and continues to publicize COVID-19 information through her social media pages. These attributes are what made her a good candidate for the position, Zwiener said.

“I have notes on how we could have handled COVID better and would

like to be part of the conversation as we move forward,” Zwiener said. “I worked really hard to get elected, it would not make a lick of sense to stop working once I’m in the building. I am honored by the opportunity to serve in some of the two hardest committees in the building. I am going to be tired – I am tired.”

promoting a for-profit company that sought to sell questionable COVID services to local and statewide residents.

The circumstances under which he left the Texas State police department, after allegations that he acted improperly

to access information that may have related to corruption charges against his brother, resurfaced this past year, during his unsuccessful race for sheriff.

Villalobos denied doing anything wrong in both cases.

Villalobos Resigns Continued from pg. 1

during his two-year tenure at the county. He worked to improve the criminal justice system, pushing for more efficiency in trial scheduling. He was assigned emergency service coordination and helped set up COVID-19 testing sites throughout

the county.

But a national, nonprofit investigative service also reported that Villalobos – along with the county judge – was under investigation by state officials concerning irregularities and potential conflict of interest for

PUBLIC NOTICES, CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7 NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of William Newton Robinson, Deceased, were issued on February 1, 2021, in Cause No. 20-0422-P, pending in the County Court at Law of Hays County, Texas, to: Stephen Newton Robinson.

All persons having claims against this Estate which is currently being administered are required to present them to the undersigned within the time and in the manner prescribed by law.

Stephen Newton Robinson, Independent Executor c/o Fay Cliett Gillham, Attorney at Law 516 West Hopkins Street, Suite A San Marcos, Texas 78666 DATED the 3rd day of March, 2021.

/s/: Fay Cliett Gillham Fay Cliett Gillham, State Bar No. 04382170 516 West Hopkins Street, Suite A San Marcos, Texas 78666 Telephone: (512) 392-3300 Fax: (512) 392-3334 E-mail: faygillham@austin. rr.com Attorney for Stephen Newton Robinson

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Pursuant to Chapter 59 of the Texas Property Code, TJO 10 X 10 Management, Ltd Managing properties listed below will hold a public auction of property being sold to satisfy a landlord’s lien. The sale will begin on or about the time indicated at www.Selfstorageauction. com. Property will be sold to highest bidder for cash.

Deposit for removal and

cleanup may be temporarily required. Seller reserves the right to reject any bid and to withdraw property from sale.

Property may be sold by the space. Property being sold includes contents in spaces of following tenants, with brief description of contents in each space.

Wednesday, March 10, 2021 12:00 pm AAA Self Storage Dripping Springs at 2300 W. US Hwy 290, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.SelfStorageAuction. com Amy McMillen: misc. items.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Pursuant to Chapter 59 of the Texas Property Code, TJO 10 X 10 Management, Ltd Managing properties listed below will hold a public

auction of property being sold to satisfy a landlord’s lien. The sale will begin on or about the time indicated at www.Selfstorageauction. com. Property will be sold to highest bidder for cash.

Deposit for removal and cleanup may be temporarily required. Seller reserves the right to reject any bid and to withdraw property from sale.

Property may be sold by the space. Property being sold includes contents in spaces of following tenants, with brief description of contents in each space.

Wednesday, March 10, 2021 12:00 pm AAA Self Storage Dripping Springs at 2300 W. US Hwy 290, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.SelfStorageAuction. com Amy McMillen: misc. items.

HAYS CISD — For students who have fallen behind due to pandemic stresses, Hays CISD is offering credit recovery early into the spring semester to allow them more time to get back on track.

In an effort to ensure that high school students are prepared to graduate, the district is giving students an early start on making up classes they have failed; this would typically not take place until right before summer school.

While there were many training for the Schoology Learning Management System (LMS), Hays CISD saw thousands of students fail classes last semester after the transition into virtual learning.

The district believes the students need more time to catch up.

Credit recovery will look different for each campus. Letters will be sent home for parents to understand the situation for their specific student.

“We knew this was going to be a challenging year,” said Derek McDaniel, director of curriculum and instruction.

Communication has been key, according to McDaniel, for campuses to reach out to parents and inform them of the situation with their student.

“We always ask parents and students, ‘What do you need,’” McDaniel said. “If something is not working for you, what do you need and what can we do to help support you?”

The district is working on several approaches to contact students. David Pierce, Hays High principal, said he favors home visits.

“I knocked on doors and had conversations, conferences right there in the driveway,” Pierce said. “We were able to get a lot of the kids back.”

Brett Miksch, Johnson High principal,

said they are stressing the importance of students coming back to campus again since in-person students are having more success.

“We are just trying to meet them where they are at,” Miksch said.

“Our main focus in the spring is to give them hope. For those kids who did nothing or did not participate, we are trying to cast that net out there to give them hope through credit recovery.”

Miksch is reminding students that the credit recovery does not have to be completed or crammed into one session — it will take time.

“We are going to work with you,” Miksch said. “We will get through this. We do not have to just chalk up 2021 as a wash. We can get through and get you those credits.”

Karen Zuniga, Lehman High principal, said the staff is concerned about 69 Lehman seniors, especially about 12 who will need to attend summer school. Last April, there were 44 seniors at that level with 24 who graduated during the summer.

Zuniga credits the teachers who have pushed through.

“You hit a pandemic and [teachers]are doing even better than anything they have done in a long time,” Zuniga said. “They are taking initiative and all they really care about is the students.”

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