April 6, 2022 Hays Free Press by Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch

APRIL 6, 2022 KAPS IN CRISIS

LIGHTS OUT!

Katherine Anne Porter School raises funds to keep doors open

Hays County approves Lights Out proclamation to benefit birds.

– Page 10

– Page 2

Hays Free Press

75¢

HaysFreePress.com

Vol. 128 • No. 4

Serving Hays County, TX

County strives to update renters, SWAT called to homeowners with assistance Saddle “Any letter that is received by a homeowner pursuant to them either being behind on their taxes or if they are in fault of their last tax bill, there is direct Creek in information in that letter to that program.” Kyle BY MEGAN WEHRING

STAFF REPORT KYLE — At approximately 4:28 p.m. on March 31, Hays County Narcotics deputies attempted to serve a search/arrest warrant on a male individual at the Saddle Creek Apartments in Kyle. The suspect refused to come outside and barricaded himself inside the apartment.The Hays County SWAT team was utilized and the male suspect came out of the residence and was apprehended without incident. The individual is identified as: Zamarron, Juan Oscar (DOB: 05/05/1963). Zamarron was charged with the following: tampering/fabricating physical evidence, manufacture/ delivery of a controlled substance and possession of marijuana. This is an ongoing investigation and no further information is available at this time. However, there is no danger to the public. As more information becomes available, the Hays County Sheriff’s Office will release it, including a booking photo. If you have information regarding this incident, please contact Hays County Sheriff’s Office at 512-3937896. You can also contact Crime Stoppers anonymously by calling 1-800324-8477 from anywhere in the U.S. or you can submit your information online to Tip Line: P3tips.com or the Hays County Sheriff’s app.

HAYS COUNTY — Hays County has provided over $2 million in financial relief to residents through its COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) Program. The ERA program was created after the county received federal funds

from the U.S. Department of Treasury to contribute rent, utilities and housing stability to qualifying households that were

affected by the pandemic. Hays County currently has approximately 400 open tickets, 130 pending citizen completion, 25

under Auditor review and 230 under case worker review, according to

RENT/MORTGAGE RELIEF, 10

Hays High School advanced to Regional competition with their UIL One Act Play presentation of Frankenstein, written by Nick Dear and based on the novel by Mary Shelley. The students advanced after placing first at zone, district, bidistrict and area competitions. See more photos on page 5.

Hays High School Theater's

Frankenstein PHOTO COURTESY OF HAYS CISD

PHOTOS BY CJ VETTER One of the attractions at the festival included The Little Red Lunch Box catering car, a k-pop dance team, and a ‘birthday card’ for Buda, where guests could sign their names and leave a message wishing the city well on it’s special day. The card also featured a mural painted by Joy Bliss, a local artist affiliated with Inspired Minds Art center.

Buda celebrates 141st birthday with first annual festival BY CJ VETTER

Buda – On April 2, Buda held its first ever Buda Birthday celebration in honor of its 141 birthday at the Buda City Park and Amphitheater, with over 3,000 people in attendance. Food, vendors, and carnival rides were all offered in addition to free, live performances from award winning Texas bands Jamestown Revival, W.C. Clark Blues Revue and Money Chicha. Festivities began at

12 p.m. with a parade down Buda’s historic downtown, followed by the selection of their first annual local legend award. Amongst 22 candidates who were nominated by the community, it was former mayor Jim Hollis who was selected to receive the honor, followed by a surprise performance by his daughter who flew in from outstate. After the award, attendees had a few hours to enjoy the numerous local food stalls and vendors; some

HEALTH GRANTS

County receives grants to address local health disparities.

– Page 2

of the product on sale ranged from handcrafted jewelry to native American tool reproductions,

such as those made by local craftsman Oscar

BUDA BIRTHDAY, 10

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

Big build comes to small city of Hays BY BRITTANY ANDERSON Hays Commons, a large development being proposed by MileStone Community Builders in the small city of Hays, continues to raise infrastructure and environmental concerns for residents. During the council meeting on April 4, attorney Jeff Howard and engineering consultant Dan Ryan, both working with MileStone, were present to discuss and provide updates on the development. MileStone CEO Garrett Martin was not present despite being expected, according to Mayor Pro Tem Lydia Bryan-Valdez. MileStone has also proposed a large development in Buda off FM 967 — the Bailey and Armbruster tracts — that would be nearly adjacent to Hays Commons, and has raised traffic, safety and similar environmental and infrastructure concerns for its residents. The original development agreement for Hays Commons was signed in September 2013 with Walters Southwest. MileStone has been looking to take over the development for around a year and a half. The original, and current, development calls for hundreds of homes and a one million square foot retail center. MileStone’s new agreement proposes 271 residential units — 206 being within Hays ETJ (extraterritorial jurisdiction) and the remaining 65 within Austin’s ETJ — that will include a mixture of quarter-acre, third-acre and one-acre lots. Additionally, there is approximately 12 acres of commercial space planned. Howard explained that their proposed plan is in keeping with some of the objectives that have been expressed by the community. “The decision the city is at is, do you want that larger retail space in the current development agreement that will generate sales tax revenue, or have something more in-line with lower-density residential on the other side of the creek that is not connected to you?” Howard said. But Hays residents and some council members have not been easily swooned by presentation maps — during the meeting, they again brought up concerns regarding lot sizes, wastewater infrastructure and the effects of putting a development of this size over the Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone.

HAYS COMMONS, 10

Page 2

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • April 6, 2022

The proclamation states that birds are important to the Texas economy, helping to control the population of pest insects, and are essential to the ecology of the planet, providing ecosystem services, acting as benchmarks for environmental health, increasing livability and connecting people of all ages and abilities to the natural world.

Hays County approves Lights Out proclamation STAFF REPORT More than one billion birds die annually in the United States in collisions with buildings due to light pollution from nonshielded rural and urban lights in both residential and commercial spaces. In an effort to help prevent this, Hays County Commissioners unanimously approved a Lights Out Hays County proclamation during the commissioners court meeting on

March 29, naming March through June 15 and Aug. 15 through November 2022 as “Lights Out Hays County.” The proclamation is part of a collaborative effort to propose and implement solutions that dramatically reduce hazards to migrating birds, allowing them to safely proceed with their journeys during critical migration periods. The Lights Out Texas program is a statewide collaborative effort of education,

County commissioners proclaimed during the commissioners court meeting on March 29, naming March through June 15 and Aug. 15 through November 2022 as “Lights Out Hays County.” awareness and action run by Texas by Nature and Texas Audubon that focuses on protecting the nearly two billion birds that travel through Texas annually. The proclamation asks businesses, residents and

governments to turn off nonessential lights from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. during spring migration season, which lasts from March 1 through June 15, and fall migration season, which lasts from Aug. 15 though Nov. 30.

who contribute to the local economy. Hays County will work with the collaborative team organized by Hays County Friends of the Night Sky to provide information to the public about the Lights Out campaign, the impact of lights on bird migration and the benefits of reducing light pollution and energy consumption. More light pollution prevention tips can be found at www.texanbynature.org/ projects/lights-out-texas.

County receives grants to address local health disparities STAFF REPORT

As part of National Public Health Week (April 4-10), the Hays County Local Health Department (HCLHD) is aiming to spotlight its efforts to address health disparities. With grants from the Texas Department of State Health Services, the HCLHD created the Community Outreach Program to address health disparities in the local Hispanic community and among school-aged

children that resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic. The COVID-19 Health Disparities Grant and the Public Health Workforce Expansion Grant provide $400,000 and $330,000, respectively, to the HCLHD for the program. Funding runs through May 2023. “During National Public Health Week, we will be promoting various public health topics to highlight the many ways in which we can improve the health and social determinants of our residents,” said

program manager Matthew Gonzales. Focal points of the program include:

INFRASTRUCTURE Identify the workforce in place/to be hired to engage the targeted communities disproportionately impacted by COVID-19 and build sustainable relationships in those communities

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Identify and engage the

targeted communities to explore and document reasons why their community was so impacted by COVID-19

community partners to address health disparities

COVID-19 AND INFLUENZA VACCINATIONS

Describe efforts to design an intervention aimed at addressing one of the factors that made the targeted community so vulnerable to COVID-19

Identify and develop activities to maximize COVID-19 and Influenza vaccination rates in the targeted communities

PARTNERSHIP DIRECTORY Identify and engage with new and existing

Rep. Doggett secures $1.6 million for Buda commercial corridor STAFF REPORT In a new bill signed into law by President Biden, U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett (D-TX) announced that he has secured $1.6 million in federal appropriations to fund critical infrastructure for economic expansion in Buda. The new service will pair with the newly expanded Robert. S Light Boulevard to create a new commercial corridor. The project is expected to expand the city of Buda’s sewer system and create an important commercial avenue by serving about 70 acres of land in the area. “This federal funding will open 70 acres as a

The new service will pair with the newly expanded Robert. S Light Boulevard to create a new commercial corridor. The project is expected to expand the city of Buda’s sewer system and create an important commercial avenue by serving about 70 acres of land in the area. strategic priority area for economic development by providing wastewater service for the first time,” Rep. Doggett said. “This $1.6 million will supplement efforts by the city of Buda, which faces so many costly demands in such a rapidly-growing community.” Doggett said that this funding can go directly

uty Chief of Staff/Communications Director for Rep. Doggett, adding that this infrastructure is critical for there to be economic expansion along this transportation corridor. “Congressman Doggett’s support in getting this $1.6 million will enable us to handle a major part of water and wastewater needs without placing the — and quickly — towards financial burden on the foundational infrastructure homeowners and busifor businesses along a new nesses through property commercial corridor to taxes,” said John Hatch, serve the community and Chair of the Buda Area create more local jobs. Chamber of Commerce. “Doggett got this idea “This is the biggest direct and proposal from the appropriation Buda has Buda Area Chamber of ever received, and it will be Commerce, and other folks a big help as we continue working on this in the city,” to grow and create more said Kate Stotesbery, Dep- local jobs.”

For all the latest news in Hays County, visit

HaysFreePress.

www.

HEALTH DISPARITIES INTERVENTION DESIGN

The program is also working to establish the HCLHD as a focal point for public health education, resources and information for other organizations.

“This program enables us to create partnerships that will empower local governmental agencies, organizations and providers with the capability to decrease health disparities across Hays County,” said HCLHD Director Tammy Crumley. If any individual or organization would like to get involved with the program, contact program manager Matthew Gonzales at (512) 214-5918 or matthew.gonzales@co.hays. tx.us.

HAVING VISION PROBLEMS? IT COULD BE CATARACTS

SPECIALIZING IN:

• • • •

Cataract Surgery Premium IOL Implants Lasik Surgery Glaucoma Medical and Surgical • Macular Degeneration

Schedule your visit today 512.443.9715 www.HowertonEye.com Kyle Office 5401 FM 1626, Ste 365 Kyle, TX 78640 Austin Office 2610 S IH-35 Austin, TX 78704

Three locations to serve you Southwest Austin Office 5625 Eiger Rd, Ste 100 Austin, TX 78735

Ask about our Kleer dental membership for uninsured patients

com

HaysNewsDispatch

www.

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

.com

Dr. Steve Howard and Associates

512-268-4200

CapstoneDentalKyle.com 809 W. Center St., Kyle

C apstone D ental Family Dental Care

Mon-Thurs 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Se habla español

Opinion

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • April 6, 2022

Page 3

Have you slapped anybody lately?

fter the Academy Awards incident between Will Smith and Chris Rock, I started wondering how many of my gentle readers have resorted to physical violence in their adult life. In 1983 a co-worker sucker-punched me at the end of second shift and in 1999 (at a different workplace) a co-worker shoved me to the ground; but so far, I haven’t been in any two-way fights since childhood. (Some folks play tennis. Some folks play cornhole. Some folks play “the long game.” Bwahahahaha…) But what about you? Have you ever slapped, punched, head-butted, butt-kicked, snatched bald-headed anyone who has run afoul of you? Do you regard it with pride or shame? If you have a story, I hope you acted in self-defense, or to protect someone from a bully or to defend your country or at least to keep that &^%$# hussy from interfering with your sacred right to the last Samsung 85inch TV on Black Friday. (“With liberty and justice and Crystal Processor 4K for all who lay hands on it first!”) PLEASE don’t tell me that you have instigated a family squabble at a funeral, scuffled with a conscientious police officer or manhandled an editor who didn’t use my columns often enough. (Regarding the latter, “don’t tell me” is the operative phrase. Plausible deniability and all that.) AT LEAST tell me you were thorough with your use of force. No knocking someone into the opening of Happy Hour when you were AIMING for the middle of next week. No giving someone an UNSOUND thrashing and getting the Building Codes people involved. For statistical purposes, I hope any hypothetical disciplinary slaps can be broken down in terms of being provoked by sass or backtalk or attitude or “that look” or at least copyright infringement. (“How DARE you plagiarize and use the excuses I used on MY parents!”) I pray that you spring

Tyrades by Danny Tyree

into action only when totally justified, Grasshopper. The world certainly has enough lowbrows who tend toward the hair-trigger mode. (As Yoda once observed, “The Jerry Springer Show is strong with this one.”) Yes, “taking umbrage” seems to be the default value in our culture. “Them’s fightin’ words, mister” lurks in our psyche decades after its introduction in Westerns. Hey, how come no one ever announces, “Them’s huggin’ and dancin’ and singin’ Kumbaya words, mister”? Okay, self-restraint is harder than the Decorum Police imply. More than once when I’ve encountered an infuriating jerk, I’ve dutifully retreated to my Happy Place -- only to discover that the scumbag was already there, using the American flag for a picnic blanket and groping my grandmother! Today’s brawlers can always conjure up an excuse for their behavior, but it’s sad just how wimpy we’ve gotten since the halcyon days of chivalry, the Hatfields and McCoys or dueling. (“Defending my sister’s honor is worth a night in jail, but I ain’t getting shot at over her! I mean, she always got the most toys and let’s face it, she IS sort of a flirt…”) Taunts, challenges, unintentional slights and the ensuing donnybrooks may always be with us; but there is a glimmer of hope that social media trends may take a lot of oomph out of the animosity. (“You say my momma is so fat her blood type is Ragu??? Let me fact-check that before we do anything hasty. Your aspersion is probably missing context.”) Danny Tyree welcomes email responses at tyreetyrades@aol.com and visits to his Facebook fan page “Tyree’s Tyrades.”

What’s wrong with the world? S

ometimes, I catch myself, as I explain to 19 and 20-year-olds what life was like before Al Gore invented the Internet. “In my day, if you wanted to read an old newspaper, you had to walk over to the library.” I actually said this. I’ve never said, “I had to walk a mile and a half in the snow to get to school” even though this is technically accurate. There was no school bus in my neighborhood so I legged it. The point is, I think, every generation believes it has the market cornered on hardship. I can remember my greatgrandmother, not known for her sunny disposition and optimistic outlook, saying in the 1970s, “This country is going to hell in a handbasket.” I wasn’t sure what she was on about – Vietnam, hippies, clouds. I was about seven at the time and I remember asking my mother, “What’s a handbasket?” I’ve yet to receive a satisfactory answer. I confess that even a brief scan of any news website today can lead one to despair – war, pandemic, violent crime, chaos, inflation, gas prices. The list goes on but none of this is new. I can remember – I’m dating myself again – the

Publisher David White

Marketing Director Ashley Kontnier

Reporters Megan Wehring, Brittany Anderson CJ Vetter

Marketing Rep Kimberly Fannin

Columnists Bartee Haile, Clint Younts Photographers Wayland Clark, Albert Sanchez Proofreaders Jane Kirkham

NEWS TIPS

If you think it’s news, we probably do too! • Newsroom phone: 512-268-7862 • E-mail: news@haysfreepress.com • Mail: 113 W. Center St., Kyle, TX 78640

Production Assistant Elizabeth Garcia Office Manager Arlene Monroe Circulation/Classifieds Arlene Monroe, Charles Rhea Distribution Kimberlee Griffon Charles Rhea

CORRECTIONS

by Rich Manieri

gas lines of the 1970s. Of course, my father, who drove a Pontiac Bonneville Brougham, which was about the size of Noah’s Ark, was singlehandedly responsible for the fuel shortage in our neighborhood. However, we had no air conditioning in the house so we did our part in balancing the energy consumption scales. My parents lived through World War II, rationing and air raid drills. Their parents survived the Great Depression, soup lines and 25% unemployment. Hand wringing over the current state of affairs is understandable, but also unproductive. The question, “What’s wrong with the world?” inevitably directs our focus outward and away from the mirror. In the early 1900s, the Times of London asked, on its opinion page, “What’s wrong with the world?” Writer and philosopher G.K. Chesterton responded, “Dear Sirs: I am. Sincerely, G.K. Chesterton.” In his full-length treatise not coincidentally titled,

“What’s Wrong with the World?” Chesterton takes on a variety of society’s ills – greed, hypocrisy, the impact of secularism, personal responsibility. “Most modern freedom is at root fear. It is not so much that we are too bold to endure rules; it is rather that we are too timid to endure responsibilities,” he wrote. It was difficult to argue in 1910, as it is today, against the reality that we would rather cast blame for our personal and societal deficiencies on external circumstances rather than acknowledge our own predicament. The Judeo/Christian tradition identifies this predicament as sin. The Bible shows us ourselves and it also shows us a Savior. Yet, we seek salvation in all the wrong places – in our politics, in our possessions, in our status. How much time do we spend on social media, or elsewhere, trying to show the world how wonderful and welladjusted we are? It seems to me that I have to acknowledge who and what I am before I begin pointing out society’s flaws and foibles, as much as I am naturally inclined to believe that I’m really a rather loveable fellow and everyone else has a problem. Robert Murray

M'Cheyne, a Scottish minister who died at 29, famously said, “The seed of every sin known to man is in my heart.” A young man only comes to such a realization on his knees. As a Christian, I’ve undergone a spiritual “before and after.” You might ask, “OK, so you’re a Christian. What’s so great about you?” My answer would be, “Not a thing.” But you didn’t see the “before” version of me and I might be absolutely intolerable today if not for God’s mercy and forgiveness. I might be pretty intolerable anyway, at least if the emails I receive are any indication. We do have a choice. We can bemoan the struggles of our age or we can realize that we live in flawed, fallen world and that strife and conflict transcend generations. That doesn’t mean we do nothing. We can get involved in a number of ways and on a number of fronts. For me, the mirror might be a good place to start. Rich Manieri is a Philadelphia-born journalist and author. He is currently a professor of journalism at Asbury University in Kentucky. You can reach him at manieri2@gmail.com.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Barton Publications, Inc. News tips: news@haysfreepress.com Opinions: csb@haysfreepress.com 113 W. Center St., Kyle, TX 78640 www.haysfreepress.com 512-268-7862

Guest Column

I AM ANGRY. In July of 2021 Hays County received over $6.9 million in Emergency Rental Assistance Grant from the Federal Government to help county residents who are in danger of being evicted from their homes during the COVID pandemic. The date by which all the funds had to be disbursed is March 31 of this year. County officials did not even begin to distribute funds until September when they had to return $772,791 of the funds. Another $1.7 million was returned on February 15 of this year.

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

A good percentage of the remaining funds is scheduled to be returned. Many county residents who needed the funds will not be helped. Why did this happen? Our commissioners thought they could save money by administering the funds through existing county staff and adding a few more people to the county payroll instead of hiring an experienced firm. What resulted was a formation of red tape filled structure that severely restricted the ability to get the funds to the people who needed them. County eligibility requirements

• The deadline for display advertising and any contributed news copy is 5 p.m. Friday the week prior to publication. • The deadline for Letters to the Editor and classified word advertising is noon Monday the week of publication, though we encourage readers and advertisers to observe the Friday deadline.

went far beyond the federal guidelines. For example, applicants were required to write a half page paragraph describing how COVID had adversely affected their lives where a box to check would have been sufficient. There has been a letter sent to the U.S Treasury officials asking for an extension and the Adurra Group, Inc. has been hired to oversee the distribution of funds. This is, however, too little, too late. Many residents will continue to struggle to stay in their homes. The budget process for Hays County for next

LETTERS GUIDELINES

year will soon begin. Our commissioners can help to redeem the situation by designating American Rescue Plan funds that would be equal to the amount lost to the mismanagement of ERA funds. This would greatly help residents who are still suffering the effects of the pandemic. If you are as angry as I am, please call your county commissioner and lend your voice in support of providing funds for the many vulnerable people who are still in danger of losing a safe place to live. Jeff Thompson Kyle

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.

Page 4

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • April 6, 2022

Why children may not disclose abuse BY CASEY CROSBY & BRANDON PENDLETON, HAYS-CALDWELL WOMEN’S CENTER ROXANNE’S HOUSE FORENSIC INTERVIEWERS

April is both Sexual Assault and Child Abuse Awareness month. Two in five women and one in five men will experience a form of sexual assault in their lifetime. Roxanne’s House is HCWC’s Children’s Advocacy Center with trained staff specializing in child abuse issues including licensed counselors, forensic interviewers and advocates to assist children in healing after abuse. Our forensic interviewers have the privilege to be trusted with listening to children tell their stories of being sexu-

ally abused, sometimes for the very first time. HCWC’s adult counselors often work with clients that seek our services for victimization they experienced when they were children but never received help for. This is often because the clients are just now able to talk about the abuse. On the surface, it seems simple. If somebody hurts you, why not just tell right away? The reasons that kids may not disclose are many, and below are some of the more common factors. One thing to keep in mind is that most children who are abused know and often like, love, and trust the person who has abused them even if they know that it is wrong. It is most often a family member, close fam-

OBITUARY

Even small children can understand the punishment their abuser may face and might not want their loved one to go to jail. Family dynamics can also play a role in whether children outcry. Sometimes the breadwinner of the family is the abuser, and ily friend (including other They may also convince the child knows that if they minors), or another trusted your child that what is hap- talk about being molested, person in their lives. pening feels good and so it their family will suffer fiEmotional barriers are is not wrong. It is important nancially. This is a concluespecially important, and to always let children know sion the child can reach on abusers are often good at that it is never their fault if their own or there could manipulating emotions. someone else touches them even be external pressure Children may feel guilt in an inappropriate way. from other family members or shame about what has Fear is another major who do not want the child happened to them, thinkbarrier to children talking to disclose for this reason. ing they did something to about sexual abuse. They One of the most overdeserve it. An abuser might may fear the offender looked reasons that a child make the child feel that hurting them or their loved has not talked about abuse they are just as much at ones, scared of others not is because they have never fault for what happened to believing them, or even been asked. Please talk to them, and the child may get scared of what will happen your children about body in trouble too if they tell. to their abuser if they tell. safety, boundaries, and

consent; it is never too early or too late to have these conversations. Tell your child as soon as you can that no one is allowed to touch or look at their private parts (unless they need help with hygiene or are at the doctor and you are present). Communicate that they will never be in trouble if they tell you about being touched and that you will always believe them and take it seriously. And most importantly, keep having these conversations. This is not an event but an ongoing dialogue to ensure the line of communication is consistent and can be trusted always. This article is part of an ongoing series throughout the month of April.

Do you have a news tip to share with us?

RODRIGUEZ Sad to announce the passing of Mark Allen Rodriguez in Hayes county. He passed away at age 68 on August 25th 2021. Mark was a very kind and loving intelligent & accomplished State employee and will be dearly missed. Born April 14th 1953 in Missouri.

On the surface, it seems simple. If somebody hurts you, why not just tell right away? The reasons that kids may not disclose are many, and below are some of the more common factors.

Do you have a news tip, or an idea for a story? Do you know someone in the community that does something amazing? Do you have a not-for-profit community event you’d like to share?

If you have obituary information you’d like to send directly to the Hays Free Press and News-Dispatch, email paper@haysfreepress. com or call 512-268-7862.

Email news@haysfreepress.com or call us at 512-268-7862

HaysFreePress.com

www.

www.HaysNewsDispatch.com

512-302-5555 | www.atfcu.org

Imagine the

Possibilities...

Home Equity Loans

as low as

3.00 5 Years Fixed

1. Annual Percentage Rate. Actual rate may vary depending on credit qualifications. Rates and terms are subject to change without notice. Federally Insured by NCUA. Austin Telco NMLS #422857

% APR1

BUDA CRAWFEST MAY 21 & 22 10+ BANDS OVER 2 DAYS, RETAIL AND FOOD VENDORS, CRAWFISH AND MORE

UPCOMING EVENTS

MARGARITA SALSA FESTIVAL • AUG 27 FOR EARLY BIRD TICKETS AND MORE INFORMATION, VISIT

WWW.VISITBUDA.COM

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • April 6, 2022

Page 5

Hays High One Act Play rises above STAFF REPORT

DIRECTORS:

CAST (IN ORDER OF APPEARANCE)

Creature - Tristan Stewart Victor Frankenstein Hosea Downing

Gretel - Giulianna Coco

Gustav - Copelan Wilhite Klaus - Johnny Ford Agatha/Servant Lilah Rodriguez

Felix - Justin Johnson De Lacey - Lance Honeycutt

Female Creature Kaya Shellhammer

Lory Stewart Heather Talley (Tech Director) Jacob Young (Student Teacher) Alyssa Flores (Student Teacher)

Elizabeth Lavenza Emma Pettiette Clarice - Julia Hall

William Frankenstein Bear Williams

Servant - Noel Flowers Servant - Mia Nieto

Servant - Catarina Suarez

PHOTOS COURTESY OF HAYS CISD AND PARENTS

Servant - Avery Witt

Understudies: Furious Richmond, Isaac Reyna, Pedro Marchessini

CREW: Stage Manager - Marlee Claes

Lights - Makaylah Scobee Sound - Harper Claes Projections - Maddie Moffitt

Produced by Special Arrangement with Faber and Faber

The Texas Crossword and Sudoku Puzzle sponsored by

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

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

Sudoku puzzle courtesy of www.4puz.com

ACROSS

1 TXism: “sharp as a ____” 5 TXism: “chew __ __ awhile” 6 Dallas TV station 7 TX Judith Ivey’s “Lonely Guy” role 8 actress Taylor of TX-based “Giant,” for short 9 TXism: “__ __ ___ with the chickens” (retire early) 16 this TX Lisa sang “Stay (I Missed You”) 18 ending for United or Confederate States (2 wds.) 21 TXism: “all vine, __ watermelon” 22 TXism: “___ _ donkey fly?” (no) 23 former Fort Worth baker: “___ Baird’s” 24 this TX John was a hostage in Iran for 444 days 30 Lubbock has an annual “Cowboy _________” 34 this Berlin wrote songs for TX Ginger (init.) 35 William Powell was a Texan in “How to _____ _ Millionaire” (1953) 36 aluminium ____ 37 Houston steakhouse: “_____ of Texas” 39 “The National Beer of Texas” (3 wds.)

43 “Fiesta Diez _ ____” 44 TXism: “If I was any ______ _ couldn’t stand it” 45 TXism: “fair __ middlin’” 46 religious group 47 boat with sails, e.g. 49 “Hell in Texas” poem says the devil put “horns __ _____” 52 first manager of the Texas Rangers, Williams 24

TEXAS CROSSWORD

5 6

by Charley & Guy Orbison

9 17

See solutions on page 6

33 37

53 to Denton 47 from Abilene 54 NBC sitcom 52 53 of TX Crystal Bernard 55 55 “_______ Farms” in Gregg County 10 “Battle __ ______ (Christmas trees) Creek” was near 58 Dallas area: Goliad “______ Plaza” 11 TX academic test 59 donkey (1991-2002) (abbr.) 60 astrological lion 12 prefix meaning “all” 61 natl. ID no. (abbr.) 13 Murchison animal DOWN refuge “Black 1 1966 TX Matthew ______ Ranch” McConaughey film 14 TXism: “let ‘__ rip!” “A Time __ ____” 15 TXism: “his bulb 2 the Red ___ ___ glows kinda ___” Grande rivers are 17 beau Texas boundaries 19 TX Rex Reed, et al. 3 inhabitants 20 “do __ ____ as 4 Abilene ABC TV you can” 9 TXism: “from the 24 TX “Peter Pan” get-__” Martin (init.)

15 19

36 39

21 29

54 56

P-1579

58 59 60 61

25 Houston Texans CEO, McNair 26 Corpus Christi AM 27 TX singer Tubb 28 Crystal City has statue of “Pop___ ___ Sailor Man” 29 persevered 31 mafia, or crowd 32 pecan or apple

33 body rub 38 flower beginnings 40 TXism: “___ ninety” (small) 41 “art” in Mexico 42 Democrat who was in Texas House for 27 years (2 wds.) 48 TXism: “____ solid perfect” 50 kitchen floor often 51 TX Roy Orbison’s “____ the Lonely” 56 TX-based “Hud” star Patricia, et al. 57 flower holders

Page 6

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • April 6, 2022

PHOTOS COURTESY OF JANINE SKINES Kyle author Janine Skines, was originally from Boston, Massachussets, where she recently did a book signing and was recognized by Boston mayor Michelle Wu and other city leaders. Skines has also done readings at Tobias Elementary.

Local author writes children’s book for the times STAFF REPORT For Kyle author Janine Skines writing her first children’s book was the manifestation of a childhood dream. She began her book, The Magnificent Mask, during the pandemic when her primary work halted. It was an effort to capture

what her daughter was experiencing, as well as to encourage all children to get through the things that were going on positively and address some of the issues they were facing. Skines has recently done book readings at Tobias Elementary in Kyle, her church in Austin, the Greater Mount Zion Baptist

Debbie Thames Insurance Agency

AUTO • HOME • LIFE • BOAT • HEALTH

Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm 251 N. FM 1626 #2C, Buda, TX 78610 Oﬃce: (512) 312-1917 • Fax: 312-0688 dvthames@austin.rr.com

Church. Skines was also recognized by the mayor of Boston, Massachusetts, and other city officials on a recent trip. Skines is originally from Boston. The Magnificent Mask can be found on Amazon, Walmart and Barnes & Noble.

Your Business & Referrals Are Appreciated

We proudly support our hometown talent Texas hometown friendly bank

512-858-5159

401 E. Hwy 290W. P.O. Box 1243 Dripping Springs, TX 78620

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

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

Sudoku Solution

Come worship with us

ASSEMBLIES OF GOD

CHURCH OF CHRIST

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

Faith Assembly of God 1030 Main St., Buda

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

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

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 Sledge Chapel Missionary Baptist Church 709 Sewell, Kyle

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

Sudoku Puzzle, from page 5

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

Texas Crossword Solution

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 5

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 216 Kirkham Circle, Kyle

CHRISTIAN

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

Join us in person or online.

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

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • April 6, 2022

TEXAS HISTORY: Hot-tempered gunman pushed his luck

he surprising thing about the April 7, 1902 death of Barney Riggs was not the violent nature of his demise but that the West Texas gunfighter managed to live so long. There is no telling how many notches Riggs had on his six-gun before moving to Arizona in the early 1880s. Not that he was a professional killer, just an amateur with a fast draw and a bad temper. The fact that Riggs always seemed to have “reasonable doubt” on his side kept him out of jail until Sept. 29, 1886. That was the day he shot a friend in the head for fooling around with his unfaithful wife. This time there was no doubt as to Riggs’ guilt, and the judge saw no grounds for leniency. He started serving a life sentence for murder on New Year’s Eve 1886 in the infamous Territorial Prison at Yuma. Ten months later, Riggs was stretching his legs in the prison yard when five inmates, all Mexican, made a live-or-die bid for freedom. A convict named Puebla buried a blade in the shoulder of Superintendent Thomas Gate while two accomplices were busy being shot down, one by a guard and the other by the secretary of the prison board. Attracted by the screams and the familiar sound of gunfire, Riggs jumped in the middle of the mad melee. He grabbed a pistol from a mortally wounded Mexican, rammed the barrel into the chest of the superintendent’s assailant and pulled the trigger. The convict staggered back, and the fearless rescuer finished him with a second

"The fact that Riggs always seemed to have “reasonable doubt” on his side kept him out of jail until Sept. 29, 1886. That was the day he shot a friend in the head for fooling around with his unfaithful wife."

Texas History by Bartee Haile

shot. Stepping over the dead bodies of the five would-be escapees, the convicted killer from Texas helped his chief keeper to the prison infirmary. Riggs was the talk of the territory. A Tucson newspaper praised his heroism in a glowing report that took pains to point out that no one was “more brave and took more desperate chances than Barney Riggs” to prevent the escape and further loss of life. In record time, Riggs was rewarded with a full pardon. For the rest of his days, his favorite wisecrack was, “I had to kill a man to get into Yuma and killed another to get out. Riggs returned to West Texas with his young son but not his adulterous wife. She left town the minute she heard her foul-tempered husband was a free man. After four lean years in the private sector, Riggs landed a job on the public payroll. Andy Royal, the corrupt and hated sheriff of Pecos County, always had a badge for anybody who was handy with a gun. The ex-convict had been a deputy for a year or so, when his boss was voted out of office in November 1894. While working at his desk late one night a couple of weeks after the election, the lame-duck sheriff was given a shotgun send-off by an unknown assassin. The word on the dirt

streets of Fort Stockton was that Deputy Riggs was next, but he succeeded in dodging that particular bullet. However, try as he may, he could not avoid getting caught up in a classic West Texas feud. Reeves County Sheriff G.A. “Bud” Frazer and “Deacon” Jim Miller, the Old West’s original killerfor-hire, already had two shootouts under their gun belts by the time Riggs relocated to Pecos. Neutrality made the most sense, but their marriages to each other’s sisters compelled Riggs to side with the lawman in the private war. Riggs’ brother-in-law was no match, of course, for a killing machine like Miller. Frazer was playing cards in a Toyah saloon in September 1896, when “Deacon Jim” ended the feud with a fatal one-two punch from a double-barreled shotgun. Once again Riggs was on a hit list with a single name – his. He knew it was only a matter of time until Miller or his surrogates came gunning for him. Riggs did not have long to wait. Three weeks after Bud Frazer’s murder, John Denson and Bill Earhart showed up in Pecos. The pair spent the day hunting their prey and the courage to take him on but found neither. The next morning, Denson and Earhart burst into the watering hole where

Riggs was tending bar for a buddy. Earhart got off the first round but merely grazed Riggs, who returned fire in a heartbeat hitting him right between the eyes. With the odds suddenly even, Denson turned and ran. Riggs missed him on this way out the door, followed him into the street,

calmly drew a bead on the shrinking target and put a bullet in the back of his head. Following his acquittal in the double homicide, Riggs stayed out of serious trouble for several years. Then in 1901 his wife divorced him and was awarded a cash settlement of $2,000 payable to her son-in-law Buck Chadborn. On Apr. 7, 1902, Barney Riggs’ temper got the best of him one last time. He confronted Chadborn and, according to three different witnesses, either (a) threatened to strike him with a walking cane, (b)

Eazy is a male, 5-year-old, Chihuahua mix. This handsome chihuahua is great with cats, dogs, kids and even housebroken! Eazy hopes that he has some siblings (dog, cat, or even kids!).

reached in his back pocket for “a handkerchief or something” or (c) cursed the youth less than half his age. No one claimed the over-the-hill gunfighter was armed. But Chadborn shot him dead anyway, and a jury agreed it was an open-and-shut case of self-defense.

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

Velcro Tony is a male, 2-year-old domestic shorthair mix. His sgoals include learning how to walk on a harness, meeting lots of new people and cats, and hopefully finding his forever home.

PAWS Shelter of Central Texas

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

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

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

sponsored by

Committed to your pet’s health since 1978

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

Service Directory Computer Help

Air Conditioning

Nemec HeatiNg & air

Consulting Setup Training Backups Upgrades

“Proudly Serving Central Texas”

Residential • Commercial • After Hours Available

Computer Systems Software Development Networking Technical Systems Maintenance

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

Want help selecting the best value? Office systems not maintained? Did your kids or employees leave your computer useless?

Email: Chris@nemecheatingandair.com O. 512-312-9081 • C. 512-789-5132 Buda, Texas 78610 • TACLA 34861C

Zachary Barton 512-686-7589 512-686-7589 107 S. Main St., Ste. A • Kyle, TX

Rick-Rob.com robinnds@aol.com

107 S. Main St., Ste. A • Kyle, TX

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

512-858-7952

www.HaysFreePress.com or

www.HaysNewsDispatch.com

Free estimates • Senior Discounts Licensed & Insured • Visa/MC accepted *Some restrictions apply

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

www.allensfoundation.com • 512-703-0020

Plumbing

Pool Service The only call you need to make

rince

#M14369

312-0710 Septic Services

Zachary Barton

Rick-Rob Trucking

For all the latest news in Hays County, visit

Pier & Beam, Concrete Slab, Skirting, Mobile Home Drainage Corrections, Financing Available*

• 40 yrs. Experience • Family Owned • Family Operated • Backflow Testing and Devices

TICL #629

Pool Service

G&S

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

Pool and Spa Service

Serving Hays County since 1990 MC • Visa

512-326-4695

www.gspoolspa.com

Septic Systems ENTERPRISES, INC. SELLMAN

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

Shoe Repair

Serving the Hays including Blanco, Serving the Metro Haysarea, Metro area,Travis, including Bastrop, Williamson & surrounding counties.

www.SellmanSepticServices.com

512-965-3465

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

Wild West Remodeling 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”

Tree Service

Lees Trees

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

SELLMAN AustinShoeHospital.com ENTERPRISES, INC. Free Assessments & Estimates • Insured SELLMAN ENTERPRISES, INC. 512-312-0002 10 Locations in Central Texas including: Commercial & Residential

312-0002 312-0002 (512)

SELLMAN ENTERPRISES, ENTERPRISES, INC. INC. SELLMAN

Septic Services Septic Services (512)

SEPTIC PUMPING • CLEANING REPAIRS • COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL

Remodeling & Repairs

Over 10 years of experience Keith Miller, owner

(512)

312-0002 Septic Pumping Travis, Blanco, Bastrop, Williamson www.SellmanSepticServices.com & surrounding counties.

Financial Planning Financial Planning

Newspaper

Allen’s Foundation Solutions

Plumbing Company

Loam • Topsoil • Sand • Gravel • Roadbase Asphalt Millings • Granite • Compost Mix Tractor Work Available Specializing in Country Driveways

mike@haystech.com

Foundation Repair

Dirt Cheap

Professional Office Home and RV Service in north Hays Co.

cHris Nemec

• Residential Repair Specialist • Remodeling & Water Heaters • Sewer Cleaning & Replacements Enterprises and • Slab & Gas Leak Repair and large like• BBB Member

ing out. e number.

Page 7

10locations locations in in Central 10 Central Texas 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 W Hwy 290 and Nutty Brown Rd • 512-827-3398 1911 W. Ben White Blvd. in Austin • 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

SEPTIC PUMPING • CLEANING 8211 Burnet Rd. Austin - 512-453-1961 REPAIRS • COMMERCIAL SEPTIC PUMPING • CLEANING & RESIDENTIAL REPAIRS • COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL SELLMAN ENTERPRISES, INC. Serving the Hays Metro area, including Travis, Blanco, SELLMAN ENTERPRISES, INC.

SELLMAN ENTERPRISES, INC.

MARCUS LEES (512) 858-4018 leestreestexas@gmail.com

Page 8

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • April 6, 2022

Classifieds

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

PUBLIC NOTICES NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of Michael Steven Daniel, Deceased, were issued on March 14, 2022, in Cause No. 22-0067-P, pending in the County Court at Law, Hays County, Texas, to: Ella Sheryl Smart. 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. c/o: M. Elizabeth Raxter Attorney at Law 705 State Park Rd. Lockhart, Texas 78644 DATED the 24th day of March, 2022. By: /s/ M. Elizabeth Raxter M. Elizabeth Raxter Attorney for Ella Sheryl Smart State Bar No.: 24050084 705 State Park Rd. Lockhart, Texas 78644 Telephone: (512) 398-6996 Facsimile: (512) 668-4501 E-mail: eraxter@tx-elderlaw.com

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of Edward J. Kelliher, Deceased, were issued on March 29, 2022, under Docket No. 22-0037-P, pending in County Court at Law No. 3 of Hays County, Texas, to Emily K. Kelliher as Independent Administrator. Claims may be presented in care of the attorney for the estate, addressed as follows: Representative, Estate of Edward J. Kelliher, Deceased, c/o Joseph C. Gagen, Attor-

ney at Law, P.O. Box 162834, Austin, Texas 78716-2834. All persons having claims against this estate, which is currently being administered, are required to present them within the time and in the manner prescribed by law. DATED: April 4, 2022--/S/ Joseph C. Gagen, Attorney for Applicant

PUBLIC NOTICE

By order of the Hays County Commissioners Court, notice is hereby given that on Tuesday, April 12, 2022 at 9 a.m. in the Hays County Courthouse, 111 E. San Antonio Street, the Hays County Commissioners Court will hold a public hearing to consider: ESTABLISHING A 4-WAY STOP LOCATION ON MAIN STREET AT THE INTERSECTION WITH CAMPO DEL SOL PARKWAY NEAR SUNFIELD SUBDIVISION.

THE CITY OF CREEDMOOR

The City of Creedmoor, Texas will hold a public hearing 7:00 p.m., April 21, 2022 at the Creedmoor Community Center, 12513 FM 1625, Creedmoor, Texas for public comments on a zoning change request from Commercial to Multi-family services from the property owner at the 5107 FM 1327. Also for the same piece of land there will be a request to several requirements of city; coverage, parking sizes, and height requirements. By the order of the City Council of the City of Creedmoor, Texas, Robert R. Wilhite, Administrator, City of Creedmoor.

Public Notice LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of Frank V. Puckett, Deceased, were issued on March 25, 2022, in Cause No. 22-0048-P, pending in the County Court at Law of Hays County, Texas, to: George Gerlach. 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. George Gerlach, Independent Executor c/o: Fay Cliett Gillham, Attorney at Law 516 West Hopkins Street, Suite A San Marcos, Texas 78666

NOTICE TO CREDITORS CAUSE NO. 22-0023-P

On the 28th day of February, Letters Testamentary upon the Estate of DARYL WILLIAM BALL, Deceased, were issues to ERIN RACHEL BALL, by the County Court at Law Number Two (2) of Hays County, Texas, in cause number 22-0023-P pending upon the docket of said court. All persons having claims against said Estate are hereby required to present them within the time prescribed by law at the address shown below. The name where claims may be sent is Deborah A. Newman, whose address is 245 W. 18th Street, Houston, Texas 77008, Telephone: 713-942-2501, Fax: 713-9422235, Texas Bar Number: 01237257.

By: /s/ Deborah A. Newman, Attorney at Law Newman Law Firm 245 W. 18th Street Houston, Texas 77008 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Notice is given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of Charles Roger Addlesperger were issued on March 3, 2022, in Cause No. 21-0536-P, pending in the County Court of Hays County, Texas, to Kristin M. Hesse. All persons having claims against the estate, which is presently being administered, are required to submit them, within the time and manner prescribed by law, and before the estate is closed, addressed as follows: Representative Independent Executor, Kristin M. Hesse, for the Estate of Charles Roger Addlesperger; c/o Jessica Faulkner, Attorney-At-Law, 12912 Hill Country Blvd, STE F-233, Austin, TX 78738. DATED the 30th day of March, 2022. By _/s/ Jessica Faulkner Jessica Faulkner Attorney for Kristin M. Hesse, Executor of the Estate of Charles Roger Addlesperger

NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO SUBDIVIDE

An application has been submitted to HAYS COUNTY to subdivide 2.00 acres of property located along Yarrington Road in San Marcos, TX 78666. Information regarding the application may be obtained from Hays County Development Services (512)-393-2150. Tracking Number: PLN-1848-PC.

Public Notice

LEGAL NOTICE Notice of Public Hearing

Application hasof been made with The Texas Notice Public Hearing Alcoholic for a TO WineNOTI CE Beverage I S H E RCommission EB Y G I V EN A LL Only PackagePERSONS, Store Permit by FM 967 SBB INTERESTED THAT: Partners LLC DBA Bread Basket to be located The CityB of Texas, to initiate at 2550 FMKyle, 967, Suite 100,proposes Buda, Hays annexation proceedings County, Texas. Managersatofthe saidrequest LLC areof Jeff Howard of McLean & Howard, LLP to extend the Sufian Emmar – Manager, Bilal Omar – boundary of said city to include approximately Manager, and Baslan Omar – Manager. 176.023 acres of land located at 5260 Hillside Terrace, Hays County, TX.

ApplicationIShasHbeen made G with The Texas NOTICE EREBY IV EN TO A LL Alcoholic Beverage Commission INTERESTED PERSONS, THAT: for a WineOnly Package Store Permit By 1785 Bunton SBBCity Partners LLC DBA Baskettotoinitiate The of Kyle, Texas,Bread proposes be located at 1785 Bunton Creek Rd, Suite annexation proceedings at the request of Jeff 100, Kyle, Hays County, Texas. Managers Howard of McLean & Howard, LLP to extend the of said LLC are Sufian boundary of said city toEmmar include– Manager, approximately Bilal Omar – Manager, and Baslan 82.951 acres of land located on Omar FM –2001, Manager approximately 500’ north of the intersection of Windy Hill Road and FM 2001, Hays County, TX.

A public hearing will be held by the Kyle City NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Council on Tuesday, April 19, 2022 at 7:00 P.M. is hereby to all interested persons, that: in Notice the Kyle City Given Hall Council Chambers, 100 W. The City Kyle, Texas, proposes initiate annexCenter St.,of78640, for all personstointerested in the ation proceedings at the request of Jeff Howard of proposed annexation. At said time and place all McLean & Howard, LLP to extend the boundary of said such shall have the176.023 right to appear and be city topersons include approximately acres of land located Of at 5260 Hillside Terrace, Hays County, heard. all said matters and things, allTX. persons A public hearing will be held by the Kyle City Council interested in the things and matters herein on Tuesday, April 19, 2022 at 7:00 P.M. in the Kyle City mentioned, will take notice. Hall Council Chambers, 100 W. Center St., 78640, for

A public hearing will be held by the Kyle City OFApril PUBLIC Council on NOTICE Tuesday, 19,HEARING 2022 at 7:00 P.M. is hereby to all interested persons, that: in Notice the Kyle City Given Hall Council Chambers, 100 W. The City Kyle, Texas, proposes to initiate annexation Center St.,of78640, for all persons interested in the proceedings at the request of Jeff Howard of McLean proposed At boundary said timeof and place & Howard, annexation. LLP to extend the said city to all include approximately 82.951 of to land locatedand on be such persons shall have theacres right appear FM 2001, 500’ north the intersection of heard. Ofapproximately all said matters and ofthings, all persons Windy Hill Road and FM 2001, Hays County, TX. interested in the things and matters herein A public hearing will be held by the Kyle City Council on Tuesday, April 19, 2022 at 7:00 P.M. in the Kyle City mentioned, will take notice.

Published on April 6, 2022

all persons interested in the proposed annexation. At said time place all such persons have the Hall, right This is aand meeting taking place atshall Kyle City to appear and be Street, heard. Of all said things, 100 W. Center Kyle, TXmatters 78640;and Spectrum all persons interested in the things and matters herein 10; https://www.cityofkyle.com/kyletv/kyle-10mentioned, will take notice. live This is a meeting taking place at Kyle City Hall, 100 W. Center Street, Kyle, TX 78640; Spectrum 10; https:// www.cityofkyle.com/kyletv/kyle-10-live Published on April 6, 2022

Hall Council Chambers, 100 W. Center St., 78640, for all persons interested in the proposed annexation. At This is aand meeting taking place atshall Kyle City said time place all such persons have the Hall, right to appear and beStreet, heard. Of all said and things, 100 W. Center Kyle, TXmatters 78640; Spectrum all persons interested in the things and matters herein 10; https://www.cityofkyle.com/kyletv/kyle-10mentioned, will take notice. liveThis is a meeting taking place at Kyle City Hall, 100 W. Center Street, Kyle, TX 78640; Spectrum 10; https:// www.cityofkyle.com/kyletv/kyle-10-live Published on April 6, 2022

Separate sealed Bids for the County Line Special Utility District’s (SUD) GRISTMILL ROAD WATER MAIN, SWE Project No. 0017-076-21 will be received by and at the office of the General Manager, 8870 Camino Real, Uhland, Texas 78640 until Thursday, April 14, 2022 at 10:00 A.M. where they will be opened and read aloud. Bids must be clearly marked on the outside of the envelope or package with the words “County Line SUD – Gristmill Road Water Main Project”. Bids received after this time will be rejected and returned unopened. Project consists of, but is not limited to the following: Furnish and install approximately 1,200 L.F. of 16” and 12” water main including a 16” water line crossing of SH 21 to be placed in a 24” bored steel casing. The project will be located along Gristmill Road at SH 21 near Uhland, Texas. Each Bidder shall also include the time when he could begin work and the number of days needed to complete the project as part of his bid. This may factor into the award of the project. The Information for Bidders, Bid, Bid Bond, Contract, Plans, Specifications, Performance and Payment Bonds and the Contract Documents may be examined at the following locations: SOUTHWEST ENGINEERS, INC., 307 ST. LAWRENCE STREET, GONZALES, TEXAS 78629 (830) 672-7546 Plans and Specifications are available at the office of Southwest Engineers, Inc. in two different formats: Hard Copy - $80.00 (Non-Refundable) ~ Download - $25.00 (Non-Refundable). A bid bond in the amount of 5% of the bid issued by an acceptable surety registered with the U.S. Treasury shall be submitted with each bid. A certified check payable to the County Line SUD may be submitted in lieu of the Bid Bond. The County Line SUD reserves the right to reject any or all bids and to waive any informalities in the bidding. Bids may be held by the County Line SUD for a period not to exceed thirty (30) days from the date of the bid opening for the purpose of reviewing the bids and investigating the bidder's qualifications prior to the contract award. March 23, 2022 County Line SUD Chris Betz, President

BID NOTICE FENCE CONSTRUCTION PROJECT The Plum Creek Conservation District (PCCD), Lockhart, Texas is requesting sealed bids from qualified, responsible bidders for FENCE CONSTRUCTION PROJECT to Floodwater Retarding Structure Site 37 at Plum Creek Watershed in Caldwell County, Texas. One award for all items will be made. Performance time is 46 working days. Estimated price range is between $35,000 and $75,000. Major items of work are: Removal of approximately 6,922 LF of fence; steel line posts; t-posts; barbed wire; steel corner posts; gate posts; AND approximately 6,922 LF of fence to be constructed to include: 32 corner/gate posts; line posts; t-posts; five (5) sixteen (16) foot gates, two (2) stiles, and one (1) four (4) foot gate. PCCD reserves the right to accept or reject any and all bids. The successful bidder will be required to furnish a payment bond (for bids exceeding $25,000) and a bid bond (for bids exceeding $50,000). Invitation For Bids (IFB) documents will be available electronically beginning March 30, 2022. Complete IFB documents may be viewed and downloaded at no charge from the Plum Creek Conservation District website: https://pccd.org and click on Job Bids tab and then IFB No. PCCD-22-PCW37-FencePRJ-02. Contact Daniel Meyer (512) 398-2383 if you have problems downloading documents. No printed copies of the IFBs will be distributed to interested parties, but a printed copy is available for viewing at the PCCD office. Bids must be received by April 18, 2022, no later than 4:00 PM CST, at the PCCD office, 1101 W. San Antonio Street, Lockhart, Texas 78644. Electronic, facsimile, and telegraphic bids will not be considered. A Pre-Bid Site Showing can be scheduled with Daniel Meyer (512) 398-2383.

Public Notice

LEGAL NOTICE Notice of Public Hearing

Application been The NOT I CE I ShasHE REmade BY with GI VE N Texas TO AL L Alcoholic Beverage Commission for a WineINTERESTED PERSONS, THAT: Only Package Store Permit By 175 Oldstage SBBCity Partners LLC DBA Bread Baskettoto initiate be The of Kyle, Texas, proposes located at 175 N Old Stagecoach Rd, Suite 100, annexation proceedings at the request of Edward Kyle, Hays County, Texas. Managers of said Coster Bullock, Jr. to extend the boundary of said LLC Sufian Emmar – Manager, Bilal Omar city to are include approximately 119.703 acres of land Baslan Manager l o– cManager, a t e d a t and 1111 & Omar 111 3 – R oland Lane, approximately 3000’ northwest of the intersection of IH-35 and Roland Lane, Hays County, TX. A public hearing will be held by the Kyle City OFApril PUBLIC Council on NOTICE Tuesday, 19,HEARING 2022 at 7:00 P.M. Notice is hereby Given to all interested persons, that: in the Kyle City Hall Council Chambers, 100 W. The City of Kyle, Texas, proposes to initiate annexation Center St., 78640, for all persons interested in the proceedings at the request of Edward Coster Bullock, Jr. proposed annexation. At said andapproxplace all to extend the boundary of said city totime include imately 119.703shall acreshave of land & 1113 such persons thelocated right at to1111 appear and be Roland Lane, approximately 3000’ northwest of the interheard. Of all said matters and things, all persons section of IH-35 and Roland Lane, Hays County, TX. interested in the things and matters herein A public hearing will be held by the Kyle City Council on Tuesday, April at 7:00 P.M. in the Kyle City mentioned, will 19, take2022 notice.

Hall Council Chambers, 100 W. Center St., 78640, for all persons interested in the proposed annexation. At This is aand meeting taking place atshall Kyle City said time place all such persons have the Hall, right to appear and be Street, heard. Of all said and things, 100 W. Center Kyle, TXmatters 78640; Spectrum all persons interested in the things and matters herein 10; https://www.cityofkyle.com/kyletv/kyle-10mentioned, will take notice. live This is a meeting taking place at Kyle City Hall, 100 W. Center Street, Kyle, TX 78640; Spectrum 10; https:// www.cityofkyle.com/kyletv/kyle-10-live Published on April 6, 2022

Published on April 6, 2022

Texas Press Statewide

Advertising Network Regional advertising starts at $250 per week. For more information, email david@haysfreepress.com or call 512-268-7862

273

Participating Texas Newspapers

Hays Free Press • April 6, 2022

Page 9

PHOTO COURTESY OF HAYS CISD Hays High School senior Soleil Johnson with her parents, HCISD fine arts director Patty Moreno and HCISD board members.

Hays High School student’s artwork on display in U.S. Capitol BY BRITTANY ANDERSON

“To be able to stand up for what you believe in is so incredibly important."

danger to shout their pain and fight for change. I wanted to speak my piece as well, During the Hays CISD as a high schooler. I was givBoard of Trustees meeting on en a gift in my art skills and March 28, Hays High School I wanted to do some good senior Soleil Johnson was with it. I’m really thankful I recognized for her digital art got the opportunity to share piece titled “No More,” which it with the world like this.” is currently being displayed the meeting, saying that she “Hearing you say that in the U.S. Capitol in Washfirst sketched the artwork brings tears,” trustee Courtington D.C. out on paper before taking a ney Runkle said. “To be able Hays CISD fine arts direcphoto of it and using a digital to stand up for what you tor Patty Moreno explained art program on her iPad to go believe in is so incredibly imthat through Artistic Disover it. portant. You are an inspiracovery, the U.S. House of “During the 2020 Black tion to not only to your peers Representatives official art Lives Matter movement, I but everyone in our district competition, house memhad a lot of pent up frustrathat is watching and can bers honor one high school see what can happen when student from their district by tion and fear towards the brutality of people of color,” you use your skills. That’s selecting their artwork to be Johnson said. “But I also felt beautiful.” included in an exhibit at the a surge of admiration and Johnson’s artwork will be Capitol. pride for the protestors who on display in the Capitol for Johnson explained her went out and risked personal one year. piece to the trustees during

PHOTO VIA HAYS CISD/SOLEIL JOHNSON. Soleil Johnson’s artwork, No More, is currently being displayed in the U.S. Capitol in Washington D.C.

Classifieds EMPLOYMENT

TEXAS STATEWIDE ADVERTISING NETWORK

GARAGE SALE

DIRECT CARE COUNSELORS

GARAGE SALE

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.

Church-wide Garage Sale at 8399 Niederwald Strasse, Friday, April 8, 8am4Pm and Saturday, April 9, 8am-1PM, Furniture, Crafts, Bake Sale, Misc.

EMPLOYMENT

JOB FAIR

JOB FAIR JOB FAIR JOB FAIR $8K FAIR JOB $8k TDS IS NOW HIRING! Find your career with us.

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

Join the TDS family. We offer competitive pay, great benefits, paid leave and paid holidays. We’re hiring for most positions, including:

Evo Entertainment Kyle

Recruiter 3200 KyleNeeded Crossing, Kyle TXOf78640 fer ing

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

JOB FAIR asthe well Join TDSas: Family. We offer competitive pay, great benefits, paid training/leave/holidays. • Drivers We’re hiring for most positions, including: for • Mechanics • Drivers • Equipment Operators • Mechanics Excavation Laborers • •Equipment Operators • •Excavation Laborers Concrete Workers • Concrete Workers • Route Auditors • Route Auditors Customer Care • •Customer Care Reps, andReps more! and

Offe

ring

sele

ct p

osit

up t

Evo Entertainment Kyle Kyle22, Crossing, Kyle TX 78640 Saturday,3200 May 2021

ions On * Intseele-cStitpe rOvie ositi ons * nw Int -Siste

for

Saturday, May 22,10:00 2021 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Evo Entertainment Kyle 10:00 a.m.Saturday, – 2:003200 p.m. Kyle22, Crossing, Kyle TX 78640 $8k May 2021 Evo Entertainment Kyle – 2:00 p.m. 10:00 a.m. More!

erv

iew

Join the TDS Family. We offer competitive pay, great benefits, paid training/leave/holidays. We’re hiring for most positions, including:

ring

up t

o • Drivers for • Mechanics Apply at TexasDisposal.com or call 512.329.1778 sele offer competitive ct p Equipment Operatorspay, for more information. Join the TDS Family.•We osit * Certain exclusions apply. great benefits, paid training/leave/holidays. Offe Onion * • Excavation Laborers S s r it I ing We’re hiring for most• Concrete positions,Workers including: up t ntervie e o ws • Route Auditors • Drivers for more! • Customer Care Reps, and • Mechanics TDS Family. We offer competitive pay,

3200 Kyle Crossing, Kyle TX 78640Kyle Evo Entertainment

Join the

Offe

Kyle Crossing, Kyle TX 78640 Saturday, 3200 May 22, 2021

$8k

sele

Page 10

NEWS

Hays Free Press • April 6, 2022

Katherine Anne Porter School raises funds to keep doors open BY MEGAN WEHRING

enrollment figures. But, with some new WIMBERLEY— The members in place, the Katherine Anne Porter Board recently decided to School (KAPS) communot vote on merging with nity has been fighting for ResponsiveEd. months to secure its finan“It doesn’t take anything cial stability. off the table,” said Cynthia Founded in 1998, KAPS Milonzi, Board President. is a tuition-free public char- “It just says that particular ter school, with diversity at vote and that whole scenarthe forefront of its mission, io is done.” located in Wimberley servNow, the strategic coming the Hays County area mittees led by Milonzi are along with surrounding working to raise enough cities. funds to keep the school’s On Jan. 31, the Board doors open through the of Trustees considered a summer and for the upmerger with ResponsiveEd, coming school year. a charter school operator, Milonzi explained that for a Premier High School they are currently sitting — which would ultimately at approximately $18,000 change the environment raised, excluding what of the school that many was raised last weekend at students have become acWimberley Market Days. customed to. That decision She set a goal of $500,000 was postponed for 90 days back in January, when the to allow for a reassessment postponement was still on of the school’s finances and the table. This included

Milonzi added that it may not seem like KAPS is not getting close to reaching their goal of $500,000, which is set to roughly end around late August or September, but upcoming fundraising efforts will make a difference. –Cynthia Milonzi, KAPS Board President

approximately $270,000 (rounded to $300,000) to cover the budget shortfall for this year only; a mortgage balance of approximately $76,000 (rounded to $100,000); and an additional $100,000 as a buffer that could take care of some building maintenance. “Our finance committee and consultant have been hard at work looking at our finances,” Milonzi explained. “We were just briefed at last Monday’s Board meeting that we will make it through the [current] school year if all assumptions stay in place and any fundraising efforts will just make that easier.” Milonzi added that it may not seem like KAPS is

Buda Birthday

space is limited. • Flavor & Fire Chili CookOff & Cupcake Wars will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, April 28 at KAPS. Entry fee for the cook-off is $25; individual tastings are $10 and family pack is $25. • A Barn Dance featuring OTHER EVENTS INCLUDE: Big Cedar Fever will be held from 6 p.m. to 9 • Chef’s Dinner Fundraiser p.m. on Saturday, May 15 will be held from 6 p.m. at Montesino Ranch. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, April 9 at the Wimberley • The Fall Open House will be held from 9 a.m. to 11 VFW Post 6441. Jay Bacha.m. on Saturday, Aug. man (Wimberley Cafe), 6 at KAPS, styled as a Chef Robert (Longleaf grand reopening. Craft Kitchen + Bar), and James Francis and For more information Mark Grimes (Wimberabout KAPS fundraising, ley Supper Club) will events and enrollment prepare Cajun dining options and all proceeds opportunities, please visit will benefit KAPS. Tickets https://www.kapschool. are $35 in advance and org/.

Continued from pg. 1 day. The card also featured a mural painted by Joy Bliss, a local artist affiliated with Inspired Minds Art center, a local art institute ran by Sinéad Whiteside. “Inspired Minds talked to the city about what kind of display or thing they wanted to do, and Sinéad reached out to me about it, and the city went oh yeah, got a budget for it. I actually collaborated with Sinéad’s son. All in all, it was about 20 to 25 hours of work that went into this, and it came together pretty quickly, at least for murals,” Bliss said. “It’s a little messy over there, but it’s actually really sweet looking at all the little messages and the families that signed it.” The inspiration for the event came from a 2018 campaign formed by the city council to promote Buda on social media, where business members, city employees and citizens were asked to say happy birthday to Buda, followed by cupcakes at the visitor center on April 1. In 2019, it evolved further into the idea of festival, which then grew into the music festival. “It was amazing, we felt like it was a huge success. We heard positive feedback from everyone that was there, and that it was a really great first year. We feel

Do you have a news tip to share with us? Do you have a news tip, or an idea for a story? Do you know someone in the community that does something amazing? Do you have a not-for-profit community event you’d like to share? Email news@haysfreepress.com or call us at 512-268-7862

HaysFreePress.com

www.

created at the school. “It’s just a really good way to promote the kids,” said Alisha Berber, PTSO President. “Also, to [show them] how to price their art, go through the entire process and learn how to make a living out of it.”

Rent/Mortgage Relief

Continued from pg. 1

Duran. “I just flew in from California today, it’s my first time here, not in Texas but here, and it’s my first time at the festival, and I just love how everyone is so relaxing. They came out here, and it’s so family orientated, and it’s just been a really good time listening to music.” Shay Selva, a visitor to Buda, said. The park area included a small assortment of carnival rides and fun houses, as well as the public amenities available at the park, such as the playground and splash pad, which was especially activated ahead of its regular schedule for the event. From 3 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., the bands took center stage, ending an hour before the celebration ended, starting with Money Chicha, who record their albums in Buda. “All of this is great. We just moved back ten years ago, and we used to have field day here as a kid. It’s pretty wild, but it’s a nice venue though,” attendee Joel Perez said. Other noticeable attractions at the festival included The Little Red Lunch Box catering car, a k-pop dance team, and a ‘birthday card’ for Buda, where guests could sign their names and leave a message wishing the city well on it’s special

not getting close to reaching their goal of $500,000, which is set to roughly end around late August or September, but upcoming fundraising efforts will make a difference. “I won’t say that we are out of trouble, because we are not,” Milonzi told the Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch. “But, it’s not as dire as it was on Jan. 31.” Fundraising & events While KAPS is eligible to receive grants from the Texas Education Agency (TEA) this summer dependent on enrollment numbers, it still has a full calendar of events to help with fundraising. The community was invited to attend the KAPS ArtsFest on Thursday, March 31, where students sell arts and crafts that they

www.HaysNewsDispatch.com

like we can only go up from here,” Director of Destination Services Lysa Gonzalez said. “Being able to build and be what we want to be, where it’s a celebration of the everything the community is, rather than just the park.” While no formal plans have yet to be created, the city council intends to not only host the festival next year, but also attempt to grow it to include all of downtown Buda rather than just the park. Going into their next festival, Red, White and Buda, the cities fourth of July festival, the city plans to continue their goal of bringing the best of Buda to all visiting. “They came to me because I do Budafest, so they sent me an email to come to this event, so I accepted it, and I’m glad I did,” Duran said. “I hope they do it every year. They’ve been having birthdays for over a hundred years and they finally have a birthday celebration, so I’m glad to see it going on.” For more information, you can visit www.budaamphitheater.com/budasbday, or www.ci.buda.tx.us/102/ City-Council. To learn more about the Inspired Minds Art center, you can contact them at Info@InspiredMinds.art.

data given at the March 29 Commissioners Court meeting. Ardurra Group Inc., the new ERA program manager, is working on sending out communication materials to the public. “They are working on the material for not only print distribution but digital distribution,” said Tammy Crumley, Director of Countywide Operations. “They are working on drafts of emails and letters to go out from the renters to the landlords, vise versa. I’m not sure what that looks like yet. Then from school officials to parents.” County Judge Ruben Becerra emphasized that Ardurra should make sure that any communication materials should be included in both English and Spanish.

HOW CAN HOMEOWNERS GET HELP? Becerra also pointed out that homeowners who are struggling to pay their mortgage, property taxes and other home-related fees have an option. “There is a magnificent piece that the state and the federal government are working on,” Becerra said. “This is Emergency Rental

For more information about the county’s ERA program, please visit https://hayscountytx.com/ emergency-rental-assistanceprogram/. Homeowners can find information about the assistance program at https://www.texashome ownerassistance.com/. Assistance. I can’t get tired of saying it enough. All of those who are homeowners are left out. There is a program that the state manages, [which is] federally funded, that is mortgage assistance for all of the homeowners.” Commissioner Walt Smith said that over the course of the last few weeks, he had meetings with the state of Texas, specifically with the homeowner assistance program. “I’m happy to announce that to everyone who is in Hays County who is currently behind on their mortgage, our tax office has entered into a partnership with the state,” Smith explained. “Any letter that is received by a homeowner pursuant to them either being behind on their taxes or if they are

in fault of their last tax bill, there is direct information in that letter to that program.” Smith added that the program not only helps homeowners with their mortgage but it pays for any and all property taxes, utilities and HOA fees. There are a number of fees that fall under the program. “The state is looking at establishing permanent processing centers for people to go in and apply for that if they don’t have internet access,” Smith said. “They are talking about having a process for pop-up centers where they would advertise for two to three weeks and they come to a county to do a pop-up center where people can go in without an appointment and sign up for the program. They have not done that yet.”

Hays Commons Continued from pg. 1

Regarding a wastewater treatment facility, Howard said that although they aren’t “shutting the door” on the possibility, they are operating under the assumption that the city of Austin will not serve Hays Commons. As such, MileStone will seek to enact a MUD (municipal utility district) that would levy a tax on homeowners within the development to pay for the infrastructure and water, sewage and drainage services that would be provided. Bryan-Valdez pointed out

In preparation for the May 7 election, Hays will be holding a candidates forum on April 9 at 1 p.m. at Hays City Hall on 520 Country Lane. The mayor and two council seats will be on the ballot. Hays residents and surrounding community members are encouraged to attend. that a MUD would require long-term maintenance and voiced concerns not only about potential odor and airborne particles leading to health issues, but that the upkeep responsibility would fall to Hays residents. Howard, however, said Hays would not be in the MUD and would not be affected.

Despite council voting 3-1 during their March 14 meeting to hold a workshop session to better look at the development agreement before voting on the item, which would transfer the assignment from Walters Southwest to MileStone, a session has not been initiated yet. Meanwhile,

residents and council members still have many questions left unanswered. Council went into executive session during the April 4 meeting to receive further legal counsel regarding the development but no action was taken. This is a developing story.