December 21, 2022 Hays Free Press

Hays Free Press

HCISD approves Academic Support Center

By Amira Van Leeuwen amira@haysfreepress.com

HAYS COUNTY — The Hays CISD Board of Trustees unanimously approved the design for the Hays CISD Academic Support Center (ASC) and guaranteed maximum price (GMP) 1 from Bartlett Cocke General Contractors on Dec. 12.

Local teenager’s journey to boxing championships

By Brittany Anderson brittany@haysfreepress.com

Being able to commit to a sport takes immense discipline and enthusiasm and one local teenager has been able to take his love for boxing to new levels.

Anthony “The Ghost” Lona, a 15-year-old boxer and student at Lehman High School, recently competed at the USA Boxing National Championships from Dec. 3-10 in Lubbock.

Lona’s boxing journey started many years ago. After following

in his father’s footsteps of playing football, it was boxing that truly piqued his interest one day.

“Out of nowhere, I was just interested in boxing. I kept seeing it everywhere, so I begged my dad for two years and he finally put me in it,” Lona said. “We went to a gym on the east side [of Austin] and that is where it started. I started training every day; I was watching everybody.”

Now, Lona is going on eight years of being a boxer. His rigid practice schedule was instrumental in getting him to the championships, which was no easy feat.

“I practice every day, most of the time on Sundays [too],” Lona said. “And every training’s different. There’s different things to work on, to study, to improve on, to get stronger on. There’s mental practices and also physical practices, like strength and conditioning.”

Lona began training for the championships about six to eight weeks prior to competing, describing the experience as “hardcore” — eating, sleeping and breathing boxing.

“You have to wake up at 5 a.m., run, work out then go to school.

The GMP 1 includes long lead items like HVAC equipment, electrical equipment, structural steel, a roofing package, select demolition and site work.

The center, which will cost $11,552,361, is slated to become the new home for the board, superintendent, curriculum and instruction, special education, human resources, benefits, finance, payroll, safety and security, communications, technology and operations. According to agenda documents, the proximity of these workspaces will “enhance productivity” and “increase customer satisfaction.”

The A&E Design Group began programming for this building in 2020 and the original schematic design was presented to the voters in a 2021 Bond proposition, but was unsuccessful. The firm continued the design process and produced a revised layout, which voters approved in May. Since then, A&E Design Group has partnered with O’Connell Robertson Architects to deliver the project.

Trustee Raul Vela Jr. thought the ASC design would give him “plenty of room to work and be comfortable.” Trustee Courtney Runkle agreed.

“I think it looks great,” trustee Byron Severance said.

Hays CISD staff anticipates bringing forward a guaranteed maximum price for the balance of the work in early 2023.

“We’re real excited about the Academic

New restaurant headed to Buda’s Main Street

By Brittany Anderson

BUDA — An upcoming restaurant in Buda is getting ready to bring something fresh to the community and continue to amp up the city’s robust restaurant scene.

Tamra Tindol and her husband Travis have owned the renowned and well-loved restaurant Hays City Store in Driftwood for nearly eight years. The couple is embarking on another exciting food venture: a seafood and steakhouse situated on Buda’s Main Street, appropriately named TasTe on Main.

“Buda’s always been a great town, both historically and community-driven,” Tamra said about their decision to open up shop here. “There’s so much going on, so that was intriguing.”

Tamra said that TasTe on Main will be “completely different” from Hays City Store, and that while there will be a few similarities between the two, such as having two bars and three dining areas, the atmosphere itself will bring something

PHOTO COURTESY OF TAMRA TINDOL

TasTe on Main, located at 116 Main St. in Buda, is planning to open in January 2023.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MELISSA LONA

Anthony Lona, 15, recently placed third in the USA Boxing National Championships in Lubbock.

‘I want to be a world champion’

HCISD school board receives demographic presentation

By Amira Van Leeuwen HAYS COUNTY — Last

Monday, the Hays CISD Board of Trustees received a presentation from Population and Survey Analysts (PASA), giving an overview of the district’s demographic and student population for fall 2022.

According to its website, PASA is a “demographic consulting firm that partners with Texas school districts

in planning for long-range utilization of schools by projecting future student enrollment.”

PASA previously worked with Hays CISD in the early 2000s, and the board approved PASA to provide the demographic report and planning services on Aug. 28, 2022.

The study will be used to track student enrollment for capital improvement, grade level projections and staffing.

According to the study, the district should anticipate nearly 5,200 additional students within a 10-year period.

“I think what that shows is it validated our planning for Johnson High School and it validated our planning for the timing of high school four but the data suggest that we might need to look at the work at Hays and Lehman a few years earlier than we had previously thought,” said Max Cleaver, Hays CISD’s

chief operations officer.

With the study’s projected geocodes and transfers, elementary, middle and high schools are expected to grow exponentially but the study considers utilization to propose new school placements.

Utilization is a planning tool that factors in how many people can fit into a building comfortably, without being overcrowded.

For example, in 2027, Hemphill elementary's

utilization will be at 207% and in 2032, the school’s utilization will be at 340% if the district does not add any other elementary schools. But the PASA study suggests that if the district did add another elementary school in 2024, near Negley for example, it would help offset Hemphill’s exploding student population.

Factors considered in

San Marcos Art League benefits county food bank

Food drive, art initiative bring in food, funds

By Brittany Anderson

SAN MARCOS —

The San Marcos Art League (SMAL) is once again teaming up with local artists and the community to support the Hays County Food Bank (HCFB) throughout the holiday season.

For years, SMAL has held a food drive and, more uniquely, an art initiative to help provide food and funds for HCFB.

The art league enlists the help of local artists to create a variety of artworks to be displayed at the art league center and made purchasable for the community. This year, approximately 12 artists are contributing to this initiative.

Manda Miller of

entirely new.

“It’s a steak and seafood restaurant but without the old steakhouse standards. The old stuffy rules don’t apply,” Tamra said.

The menu will be geared toward groups with things like shareable plates with reasonable price points, making it

the ideal spot for date nights, office work parties and more. Some of Tamra’s favorite items you’ll be able to find on the menu include a tomato carpaccio, two different kinds of gnocchi, a lobster bisque and, of course, steak.

Many cities tend to have a “restaurant row,”

according to Tamra, and Main Street is slowly becoming that for Buda.

“We feel like what we’re offering is not something that is easily accessible unless you drive into downtown Austin or New Braunfels,” Tamra said. “We’re excited about the community and historic aspect of Main Street. My husband and I are both from small towns and we love the small town vibe … I feel like the restaurants that Buda offers now are awesome. They’re different, most are family owned and operated, and it’s a cool restaurant destination.”

The Tindols are also making use of the building’s “huge potential” and intriguing features, like historic brick walls and expansive outdoor space and incorporating creative designs like a raised deck under and within the grove of oak trees behind the restaurant to create a “treehouse” feel.

SMAL said that each year brings something unique, as a handful of different artists come in and create art in their own styles. A portion (or all) of the proceeds made from these artworks, which include ornaments, glass trees, upcycled items and more, go toward benefiting HCFB.

The league also incorporates a food drive into its efforts, in which community members can bring non-perishable food items to the center that will go directly to the food bank.

Last year, SMAL was able to collect 100 pounds of food and raise $1,000 for the food bank, which equates to 4,000 meals. This year, Miller

Although there is still some work to be done even after doors officially open, TasTe on Main anticipates an early to mid-January opening. It is located at 116 Main St. in Buda and is currently hiring for both front of house and back of house staff. Contact Hays City Store on Facebook or in-person for more information.

said they are hoping to do even better going into 2023.

“We’re always happy to give back to our community, because everybody needs to put food on the table for the holidays,” Miller said. “As long as we can do some

good, we’re happy.”

If you would like to support HCFB before Christmas, visit SMAL to make a food donation or purchase an artwork.

The art league center is located at 117 N. Guadalupe Street, Suite 101, San Marcos.

Senator Judith Zaffirini embraces two of her favorite blessings. What she works for and hopes for Asher and George is what she works for and hopes for all children. May you and yours enjoy a blessed Christmas.

darling

Asher and George!

PHOTO COURTESY OF TAMRA TINDOL

TasTe on Main will bring steak, seafood and cocktails in a whole new way to the community.

TASTE, from Page 1

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SAN MARCOS ART LEAGUE

Stop by the San Marcos Art League before Christmas to purchase artworks from local artists or donate non-perishable food items, both of which will go towards benefiting the Hays County Food Bank.

CENTER, from Page 1

Support Center, and we’ve had a lot of input from the different departments and everybody,” said Max Cleaver, Hays CISD’s chief operations officer. The district expects to break ground in January 2023 and complete phase one of construction in early 2024.

The next school board meeting will be held in the Kunkel Room at the Historic Buda Upper Campus, at 300 San Marcos St., on Jan. 17 at 5:30 p.m.

Sometimes, I would even leave school early to run before my training, train, then get home and train again. Then, do it all over again. It was exhausting,” Lona said.

Still, his efforts paid off. Lona ended up placing third in his weight and age class (145 pounds and 15- and 16-year-olds). He is also ranked third nationally in this bracket.

Of course, actually getting to Lubbock was half the battle, so he and his family held a series of food

plate fundraisers to help him get there.

“I’m thankful to the community that I was able to make it to all my tournaments from the fundraising they helped us do,” Lona said. “I’m glad that people helped me get to where I needed to be and everything they’ve done. They bought the barbecue plates, the pozole, all of the stuff we did.”

For Lona, it all comes down to his fervor for boxing and everything that comes along with

it that helps him work through the mental and physical challenges.

“Sometimes, I really don’t feel like doing it [training],” he said. “So it’s not even motivation, it’s the discipline to be able to keep doing it and make yourself better.”

“It’s really a mental game,” Lona continued. “It’s usually the weight that gets everybody. You have to face that struggle watching everybody eat.

On Thanksgiving, I ate a small piece of turkey and

went upstairs. Everyone around you is eating; during the tournament, you fight one day and have to make weight the next day, so everybody else gets to eat dinner after and you’re just watching them. It makes you think, ‘Do I still want to do this?’

It’s something that you really have to want to do to be able to do it … One

thing is, boxing’s not for everybody.”

Lona’s talent and passion has even sparked an interest in bringing boxing to Lehman HS. For now, he continues to train with Montopolis Boxing out of Austin, constantly striving to improve himself. As for what’s next?

“I want to be a world champion,” Lona said.

Left, Emma Respondek, a Carpenter Hill Elementary fifth grader, won the 2022-23 Spelling Bee title. Her correct spelling of the winning word, “retribution,” came in the school-record 16th round of competition, where she outlasted a field of 20 talented spelling bee participants. Right, finishing in second place was fourth grader Norah Honea, third place was fourth grader Olivia Schweke and fourth was fourth grader Turner Haines. Helping to organize and run Tuesday’s spelling bee was former Hays CISD Board Member Meridith Keller as pronouncer and judges Heather Russell, Carrie Comisso and Crystal Stevens.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MONTOPOLIS BOXING Lona in the ring at the championships.

Beatrice Diaz

Beatrice (Bea) Diaz, 75, of Kyle, Texas, passed away peacefully at home with her loving family by her side on Saturday, Dec. 10, 2022 after a two-year battle with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.

Bea was born in San Marcos, Texas to Juan and Isabel Diaz. She graduated from San Marcos

Barbara LaBorde

Barbara Ann (Walker) LaBorde, passed away with family by her side on December 14, 2022. Born on July 12th, 1935, in Refugio, Texas, to Louise and Thurman Walker. She graduated from Austin High School and shortly after married the love of her life, Carroll LaBorde. She and Carroll married in 1952 at St. Mary Cathedral. It was the beginning of a beautiful love story, building a life and family that they valued above all else.

Barbara was a beloved mother, wife, grandmother and greatgrandmother. She enjoyed gardening and

High School in 1966, earning her undergraduate degree in Education from Southwest Texas State University. She began a 30+ year career in teaching, first at Goodnight Junior High and then San Marcos High School. She spent her career teaching various business courses – evolving from shorthand and typing to eventually teaching computer courses before her retirement

in 2000. A huge advocate for education, she also completed her Master’s degree in Education while raising her daughters.

After her retirement, Bea held several different jobs including Director of the Youth Unlimited Program and retired full-time after working for Hays CISD for several years. She moved to Kyle, Texas to be closer to her grandson, Matthew. She took great pride in being part of his life and helping wherever she could to support him. Bea also loved to travel, setting out with Lisa to New York, Chicago, and Memphis, to name a few.

with all of them. She and Carroll shared the love of travel with their children over many trips that created lasting memories. In addition to volunteering her time at Seton Hays, Barbara loved playing Mahjong with friends, attending Garden Club meetings, and sitting in the front row at Mass.

She enjoyed her many trips to Disney World with her daughter Tammy, Troy, and Matthew. Bea also cherished reconnecting with her high school friends in retirement.

She enjoyed lunch with ‘the girls,’ laughing and reminiscing about the old days.

Bea is survived by her two daughters, Tammy Boddy and her husband Troy, of Kyle, and Lisa Truppa and her husband Tony, of Dallas, in addition to her grandson, Matthew Boddy.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Juan and Isabel Diaz, and her brother John Diaz.

A visitation and rosary will

be held at Harrell Funeral Home in Kyle, Texas on Thursday, December 22, 2022 at 7pm. A funeral Mass will be held at Santa Cruz Catholic Church in Buda, Texas on Friday, December 23, 2022 at 10am.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider a donation to a scholarship that will be set up in Bea’s name to support her passion for education (www.bold.org/ funds/beatrice-diaz-memorialscholarship-fund), to further ALS research (www.als.org), or to Santa Cruz Catholic Church (www.santacruzcc.org).

building the beautiful, loving home that she and Carroll would share together in their almost 63 years of marriage. Her devotion to her faith, family and friends was unmatched. She took immeasurable pride in the family that she and Carroll built and treasured her time

Barbara leaves behind a family that is forever grateful for her example of what it means to be a wife, mother and friend. She is survived by her four children, Susan Feely and husband Jim, Carroll (Sandy) LaBorde and wife Lee Ann, Chad LaBorde and wife Laura, and Leah Ann Stapp and husband James. She was lovingly

known as Mommie by her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She is survived by eight grandchildren: Brandi Johnsen and husband Erik, Danna Robertson, Makenna and Alexa LaBorde, Sarah LaBorde, Lauren Collier and husband Michael, Kristen White and husband Ryan, and Megan Milstead and husband Lamar. She is also survived by twelve great-grandchildren: Kayla, Haley, Houston, Honor, Hayes, Cameron, Giovanni, Channing, Copeland, Crawford, Coy, and Cybil.

She had many friends, dearest of which was Faye Simon who shared the sentiment that “getting old was not for Sissies.”

Even in her final days she was comforting those that she was leaving behind.

She was welcomed into heaven by her love, Carroll LaBorde, her grandsons Colton, and Chad (Cal) LaBorde as well as her sister Dorothy Britton. Pallbearers are James Stapp, Jim Feely, Erik Johnsen, Ryan White, Lamar Milstead, Michael Collier. Honorary Pallbearers are Gary Simon and Paul (Kirk) Hutson. We want to thank

the incredible staff at Querencia for their compassionate care. Visitation will be at Harrell Funeral Home in Kyle, Texas December 26th from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. Services will be at Santa Cruz Catholic Church, 1100 Main St. Buda, Texas at 10:00 A.M. on December 27th with interment following at Assumption Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Santa Cruz Catholic Church or Ascension Seton Hays.

ASSEMBLIES OF GOD

Faith Assembly of God 1030 Main St., Buda

BAPTIST

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

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

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

CHRISTIAN

New Life Christian Church 2315 FM 967, Buda

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

CHURCH OF CHRIST

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

Southern Hills Church of Christ 3740 FM 967, Buda

EPISCOPAL

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

METHODIST

Buda United Methodist Church San Marcos & Elm St., Buda

Kyle United Methodist Church Sledge & Lockhart St., Kyle Journey United Methodist 216 Kirkham Circle, Kyle St. Paul’s United Methodist Church 7206 Creedmoor Rd., Creedmoor

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

Driftwood United Methodist Church RR 150 at County Road 170

PUBLIC NOTICE

By order of the Hays County Commissioners Court, notice is hereby given that on January 3rd, 2023, 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:

Hawk Ridge, Phase 1, Block B, Lots 11, 17 & 18, Replat

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Notice is given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of Margaret Downie McGuinness, Deceased, were issued on November 30, 2022, in Cause No. 22-0447-P, pending in the County Court at Law of Hays County, Texas, to: Richard Lawrence McGuinness.

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.

Richard Lawrence McGuinness, Independent Executor c/o Fay Cliett Gillham, Attorney at Law 325 East Hopkins Street San Marcos, Texas 78666

DATED the 1 day of December, 2022.

/s/: Fay Cliett Gillham Fay Cliett Gillham, State Bar No. 04382170

325 East Hopkins Street San Marcos, Texas 78666

Telephone: (512) 392-3300 Fax: (512) 392-3334 E-mail: faygillham@austin. rr.com

Attorney for Richard Lawrence McGuinness

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

HAVING

NOTICE TO ALL PERSONS

CLAIMS AGAINST

DONALD

THE ESTATE OF

LEX CURRY, DECEASED: Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary upon the Estate of DONALD LEX CURRY, Deceased, were issued to DEBORAH MAYES CURRY on the 5th day of December 2022, in Cause No. 22-0419-P, County Court, Hays County, Texas, which is still pending, and that DEBORAH MAYES CURRY now holds such Letters. All persons having claims against said estate are required to present the same within the time prescribed by law. Claims should be billed to DEBORAH MAYES CURRY, Independent Executor, at the offices of Bourland, Wall and Wenzel, P.C., 301 Commerce Street, Suite 2500, Fort Worth, Texas 76102, care of Lisa H. Jamieson.

ATTEMPT TO NOTIFY

Will the owners or lien holders of a food trailer with a Vin # of 571BE1628HM019359, please contact Quantum Towing at 512-295-8697. This trailer is being held at our facility (VSF0658080) located at 800 Summit Dr. Kyle, TX 78640. This trailer has been in our possession since 12/1/2022 and has accrued fees of 910.14 as of 12/16/2022. This trailer will continue to accrue storage fees of 36.80 + tax a day until trailer is released. The failure of the owner to claim the trailer & personal property before the 30th day after the date of this notice is provided is a waiver by the person of all right, title or interest in the trailer & personal property and is a consent to the sale of the trailer at a public auction.

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, January 18, 2023

12:00 pm AAA Self Storage Dripping Springs @ 2300 W. US Hwy 290, Dripping Springs, TX 78620 www.SelfStorageAuction. com Amanda Cox: misc. Items.

NOTICE OF REVISED PLAT

Project name: Replat of Lots 1, Block E, Resubdivision of Lots 1-4, Block E, Bush Ranch, Phase 1, Revised Mailing date: 12/6/2022

Project location: 12400 W U.S. Highway 290 Hays County, Texas

Please be advised that the resubdivision of Lots 1, Block E, Bush Ranch Phase 1, recorded in Document No. 22047589 of Bush Ranch Phase 1 is being replated to create a new lot configuration. With the replat, Lot 1 will be converted into five lots, Lots 1-5. Please see the attached plat for details.

The property falls within the following jurisdictions/service areas: Water: West Travis County Public Utility Agency Wastewater: Hays County MUD No. 4 Electric: Pedernales Electric Cooperative Emergency Service District: ESD No. 6 Ð 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: Ledgestone East Ltd.

Agent’s name: Natalia Garau, P.E.

Agent’s phone number: 737202-3214

CITY OF KYLE, TEXAS REQUESTS FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) OPERATION OF CARNIVAL, CONCESSIONS, AND AMUSEMENTS FOR KYLE FAIR TEX-TRAVAGANZA

EVENT: RFP-2023-05-PARD

SPECIFICATIONS AND GENERAL PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS FOR CARNIVAL, CONCESSIONS, AND AMUSEMENTS OR KYLE FAIR TEX-TRAVAGANZA EVENT FOR THE CITY OF KYLE PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT

NOTICE TO RESPONDERS:

The City of Kyle is accepting proposals for the selection of a company to provide carnival rides, concessions, and amusements during the Kyle Fair Tex-travaganza as stated in this RFP and posted on our website: www. cityofkyle.com. The City of Kyle invites qualified companies to submit proposals. The city is seeking a company experience working with public municipal agencies. Proposals marked OPERATION OF CARNIVAL, CONCESSIONS, AND AMUSEMENTS FOR KYLE FAIR TEX-TRAVAGANZA EVENT: RFP-2023-05-PARD are to be submitted to:

Mariana Espinoza City of Kyle, Director of Parks and Recreation 700 Lehman Rd Kyle, TX 78640 (512) 262-3939

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL DEADLINE: 4:00 PM, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2023

All proposals received will

PUBLIC NOTICES

be reviewed by City Staff. The staff’s recommendation will go to the Kyle City Council for final approval.

Proposals should be clearly marked, “OPERATION OF CARNIVAL, CONCESSIONS, AND AMUSEMENTS FOR KYLE FAIR TEX-TRAVAGANZA EVENT: RFP-2023-05PARD”. Any proposal received later than the specified time, whether delivered in person, postal mail or emailed shall be disqualified. The City of Kyle will not be responsible for delivering mail from the post office. The City of Kyle will not be responsible for proposals delivered to any location other than the one specified above. The City of Kyle will not be responsible for emailed proposals that did not get into “in-box”. Respondents are encouraged to hand deliver their proposals well ahead of opening time or follow up to confirm their proposals were received before the deadline.

The complete RFP can be found at https://www.cityofkyle. com/rfps

CITY OF KYLE, TEXAS

show. The city is seeking a company with experience working with public municipal agencies. Proposals marked KYLE FAIR FIREWORKS: RFP-2023-04-PARD are to be submitted to:

Mariana Espinoza City of Kyle, Director of Parks and Recreation 700 Lehman Rd Kyle, TX 78640 (512) 262-3939

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL DEADLINE: 4:00 PM, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2023

All proposals received will be reviewed by City Staff. The staff’s recommendation will go to the Kyle City Council for final approval.

REQUIREMENTS

FOR AN INCLUSIVE PLAYGROUND FOR THE CITY OF KYLE PARKS AND RECREATION

DEPARTMENT

NOTICE TO RESPONDERS: The City of Kyle is accepting proposals for the design construction of one (1) inclusive playground located at Lake Kyle Park as stated in this RFP and posted on our website: www.cityofkyle.com. The City of Kyle invites qualified companies to submit proposals to provide complete cost estimates for delivery, training and cost of the Mobile LED screen. The city is seeking a company experience working with public municipal agencies. Proposals marked INCLUSIVE PLAYGROUND: RFQ-202303-PARD are to be submitted to:

later than the specified time, whether delivered in person, postal mail or emailed shall be disqualified. The City of Kyle will not be responsible for delivering mail from the post office. The City of Kyle will not be responsible for proposals delivered to any location other than the one specified above. The City of Kyle will not be responsible for emailed proposals that did not get into “in-box”. Respondents are encouraged to hand deliver their proposals well ahead of opening time or follow up to confirm their proposals were received before the deadline. The complete RFP can be found at https://www.cityofkyle. com/rfps

DIRECT CARE COUNSELORS

Provide positive role modeling, structure, and supervision to adolescent boys. No exp. required, We train comprehensively. Overtime available. $43,500 Average Annual Income. Flexible 8 & 16 hr shift schedules. Health/life/dental/vision insurance after 60 days. Min. requirements: Must be 21 yrs old, HS/ GED, clean TDL, clean criminal history, preemployment TB skin test, and drug screen. Growing (25+ year old) non-profit organization. www.pegasusschool.net. Call (512)432-1678 for further information.

REQUESTS

FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) KYLE FAIR FIREWORKS: RFP-2023-04PARD

SPECIFICATIONS AND GENERAL PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS FOR FIREWORKS AT THE KYLE FAIR FOR THE CITY OF KYLE PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT

NOTICE TO RESPONDERS:

The City of Kyle is accepting proposals for the selection of a Firework vendor as stated in this RFP and posted on our website: www.cityofkyle. com. The City of Kyle invites qualified companies to submit proposals to provide complete cost estimates for planning and delivery of a 15-minute firework

Proposals should be clearly marked, “KYLE FAIR FIREWORKS: RFP-2023-04PARD”. Any proposal received later than the specified time, whether delivered in person, postal mail or emailed shall be disqualified. The City of Kyle will not be responsible for delivering mail from the post office. The City of Kyle will not be responsible for proposals delivered to any location other than the one specified above. The City of Kyle will not be responsible for emailed proposals that did not get into “in-box”. Respondents are encouraged to hand deliver their proposals well ahead of opening time or follow up to confirm their proposals were received before the deadline.

The complete RFP can be found at https://www.cityofkyle. com/rfps

CITY OF KYLE, TEXAS REQUESTS FOR PROPOSAL (RFP)INCLUSIVE PLAYGROUND: RFQ-2023-03PARD SPECIFICATIONS AND GENERAL PROPOSAL

Public Notice Notice of Public Hearing

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS, THAT:

The City of Kyle shall hold a public hearing on a request by Sergio Lozano-Sanchez, P.E. (Z-21-0080) to rezone approximately .99 acres of land from ‘A’ (Agriculture) to ‘NC’ (Neighborhood Commercial) for property located 7755 Camino Real in Hays County, Texas.

The Planning and Zoning Commission may recommend, and the City Council may consider, assigning any zoning district which is equivalent or more restrictive.

A public hearing will be held by the Planning and Zoning Commission on Tuesday, January 10, 2023, at 6:30 P.M

A public hearing will be held by the Kyle City Council on Tuesday, January 17, 2023, at 7:00 P.M

This is a meeting taking place at Kyle City Hall, 100 W. Center Street, Kyle, Texas 78640; Spectrum 10; https://www.cityofkyle.com/kyletv/kyle -10-live

Owner(s): Federico Barboza, 21707 Hogeye, Manor, TX 78653

Agent: Sergio Lozano-Sanchez, P.E. LOC Consultants 2211 S. IH-35, Ste. 107 Austin, TX 78741

Publication Date: December 21, 2022 Z-21-0080

Mariana Espinoza City of Kyle, Director of Parks and Recreation 700 Lehman Rd Kyle, TX 78640 (512) 262-3939

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL DEADLINE: 4:00 PM, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2023

All proposals received will be reviewed by City Staff. The staff’s recommendation will go to the Kyle City Council for final approval.

Proposals should be clearly marked, “INCLUSIVE PLAYGROUND: RFP-2023-03PARD”. Any proposal received

CITY OF KYLE, TEXAS REQUESTS FOR PROPOSAL (RFQ) REPAIRS AND RENOVATIONS FOR THE JAMES ADKINS POOL: RFQ-202302-PARD

SPECIFICATIONS AND GENERAL PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS FOR THE REPAIRS AND RENOVATIONS AT THE JAMES ADKINS POOL IN THE CITY OF KYLE NOTICE TO RESPONDERS: The City of Kyle is accepting proposals for the selection of a company’s/contractors with expertise in design-build services for renovation of Aquatic Facilities. The location is James Adkins Pool, located in the City of Kyle as stated in this RFP and posted on our website: www.cityofkyle. com. The City of Kyle invites

Public Notice Notice of Public Hearing

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS, THAT:

The City of Kyle shall hold a public hearing on a request by Jackson Walker, LLP (Z22-0111) to rezone approximately 54.2 Acres of land from ‘RS’ (Retail Services, 24- Acres), “R-1-T” (Townhomes, 10.57Acres), “R-1-2” (Single Family Residential 2, 15.83 acres), “TU” (Transportation Utilities, 4.35-Acres) to ‘PUD’ (Planned Unit Development, “RS” 17.17 Acres, “R-1T” 14.56 Acres, “R-1-2” 22.49 Acres) for property located 1500 E RR 150 in Hays County, Texas.

The Planning and Zoning Commission may recommend, and the City Council may consider, assigning any zoning district which is equivalent or more restrictive.

A public hearing will be held by the Planning and Zoning Commission on Tuesday, January 10, 2023 at 6:30 P.M

A public hearing will be held by the Kyle City Council on Tuesday, January 17, 2023 at 7:00 P.M

This is a meeting taking place at Kyle City Hall, 100 W. Center Street, Kyle, Texas 78640; Spectrum 10; https://www.cityofkyle.com/kyletv/kyle -10-live

Owner(s): Woodmere Park Owner, LLC 12801 N Central Expressway, Ste. 1675 Dallas, TX 75243

Agent: Jackson Walker, LLP Pam Madere 2323 Ross Ave, Ste. 600 Dallas, TX 75201 512-236-2048

Publication Date: December 21, 2022

qualified companies to submit design/build services which comply with all applicable local, state, and federal regulations governing construction of said Aquatic Facilities including all associated agency or agencies permitting such projects.

The proposal must provide but is not limited to complete architectural and engineering design and construction cost estimates for the construction of the repairs and renovations the following location: James Adkins Pool. The city is seeking a company with governmental pool repairs and renovations experience as well as experience working with public municipal agencies.

Proposals marked REPAIRS AND RENOVATIONS FOR THE JAMES ADKINS POOL: RFQ 2023 02 PARD are to be submitted to:

Mariana Espinoza

City of Kyle, Director of Parks and Recreation 700 Lehman Rd Kyle, TX 78640 (512) 262-3939

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL DEADLINE: 4:00 PM, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2023

All proposals received will be reviewed by City Staff. The staff’s recommendation will go to the Kyle City Council for final approval.

Proposals should be clearly marked, “REPAIRS AD REMOVATIONS FOR THE JAMES ADKINS POOL: RFQ-2023-02PARD”. Any proposal received later than the specified time, whether delivered in person, postal mail or emailed shall be disqualified. The City of Kyle will not be responsible for delivering mail from the post office. The City of Kyle will not be responsible for proposals delivered to any location other than the one specified above. The City of Kyle will not be responsible for emailed proposals that did not get into “in-box”. Respondents are encouraged to hand deliver their proposals well ahead of opening time or follow up to confirm their proposals were received before the deadline.

The complete RFQ can be found at https://www.cityofkyle. com/rfps

CITY OF KYLE, TEXAS REQUESTS FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) MOBILE LED SCREEN: RFP-2023-01PARD

SPECIFICATIONS AND GENERAL PROPOSAL REQUIREMENTS FOR A MOBILE LED SCREEN FOR THE CITY OF KYLE PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT

NOTICE

TO RESPONDERS:

The City of Kyle is accepting proposals for the selection of a Mobile LED Screen as stated in this RFP and posted on our website: www.cityofkyle. com. The City of Kyle invites qualified companies to submit proposals to provide complete cost estimates for delivery, training and cost of the Mobile LED screen. The city is seeking a company experience working with public municipal agencies. Proposals marked MOBILE LED SCREEN: RFP-2023-01-PARD are to be submitted to:

Mariana Espinoza

City of Kyle, Director of Parks and Recreation 700 Lehman Rd Kyle, TX 78640 (512) 262-3939

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL DEADLINE: 4:00 PM, WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 4, 2023

All proposals received will be reviewed by City Staff. The staff’s recommendation will go to the Kyle City Council for final approval.

Proposals should be clearly marked, “MOBILE LED SCREEN: RFP-2023-01PARD”. Any proposal received later than the specified time, whether delivered in person, postal mail or emailed shall be disqualified. The City of Kyle will not be responsible for delivering mail from the post office. The City of Kyle will not be responsible for proposals delivered to any location other than the one specified above. The City of Kyle will not be responsible for emailed proposals that did not get into “in-box”. Respondents are encouraged to hand deliver their proposals well ahead of opening time or follow up to confirm their proposals were received before the deadline.

The complete RFP can be found at https://www.cityofkyle. com/rfps

NOTICE OF SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

State of Texas County of Hays Cause: 21-2559

By virtue of an Order of Sale issued by the clerk of the 428th District Court of HAYS County, Texas, October 13,2022, in cause numbered 21-2559, styled Waterleaf Falls (Kyle) Homeowners’ Association, Inc. versus Amy Stacavich on a judgment rendered against Amy Stacavich; I did on October 24, 2022, at 4:00 p.m., levy upon as the property of Amy Stacavich the following described real property:

LOT 3, BLOCK F, WATERLEAF SUBDIVISION PHASE B, SECTION 2, A SUBDIVISION IN HAYS COUNTY, TEXAS ACCORDING TO THE MAP OR PLAT THEREOF RECORDED IN VOLUME 11, PAGE 337-341, OF THE OFFICIAL PUBLIC RECORDS OF HAYS COUNTY, TEXAS ALSO DESCRIBED AS 131 TOWER DRIVE, KYLE, TEXAS 78640

On January 3, 2023, being the first Tuesday of the month, between the hours of 10:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M., beginning at 10:00 a.m., at the Hays County, at the South Door, 712 Stagecoach Trail of the Courthouse of the said County, in the City of San Marcos, Texas, I will sell for cash to the highest bidder, all the right, title and interest of Amy Stacavich in and to the real property described above.

Dated at Kyle, Hays County, Texas, October 24, 2022

Michael Torres Constable, Pct. 2 Hays County, Texas 5458 FM 2770 Kyle, Texas 78640

/s/ Patrick Chasse by Patrick Chasse, Deputy Notice to Bidders: You are buying whatever interest, if any, the Debtor has in the

property. Purchase of the Debtor's interest in the property may not extinguish any liens or security interests held by other persons. There are no warranties, express or implied, regarding the property being sold, including but not limited to warranties of title, merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.

Notice to Judgment Debtor: If there is any property, real or personal, you want to point out for levy in lieu of the above described property, you must contact this office immediately.

To place a classified ad, call us at 512268-7862 or email us!

paper@haysfreepress.com

LOTS & ACREAGE

RENTAL LOT AVAILABLE

ALL PROPOSALS (INCLUDING HUB PARTICIPATION PLANS) ARE DUE BY 2:00 P.M., Central Time, on Wednesday, January 18, 2023 at the San Marcos Activity Center PROPOSALS WILL BE PUBLICLY OPENED AND READ ALOUD AT THE SAN MARCOS ACTIVITY CENTER

The Proposal submission requirements and Contract Documents may be obtained without charge from www.CivcastUSA.com Offerors must register on this website in order to view and/or download Proposal Documents. At the time an Offeror registers on this website, the Offeror must provide a working e-mail address, so the Offeror will receive any addenda or clarification issued by the OWNER

A mandatory pre-proposal conference will be held as described in Section 00 21 14 –Instructions to Offerors at the following location, date, and time: Date: 1/5/2023, Time: 2:00 PM; Place: San Marcos Activity Center (501 E. Hopkins, San Marcos, TX 78666)

The contract is contingent upon release of funds from the Texas Water Development Board. Any contract or contracts awarded under this Invitation for Proposals is/are expected to be funded in part by a loan or grant from the Texas Water Development Board. Neither the State of Texas, nor any of its departments, agencies, or employees are or will be a party to this Invitation to Offerors or any resulting contract.

All procurements by the OWNER are subject to the OWNER’s Historically Underutilized Business (HUB) Program. The Program provides HUBs full opportunity to participate in all of the OWNER’s contracts. Goals for HUB participation are stated for each solicitation. Information on achieving the goals or documenting good faith efforts to achieve the goals are contained in the Proposal Documents and other Contract Documents. When a HUB participation goal applies each Offeror is required to complete and return a HUB Participation Plan with its Proposal. If a HUB Participation Plan is not submitted with a Proposal, the Offeror will not be accepted for consideration. The successful Offeror will be required to document compliance with their HUB Participation Plan with each monthly pay application.

Each Proposal must be accompanied by a Bid Bond on the furnished form, in an amount of not less than five percent of the total Proposal, as specified in Form 00 21 14, Instructions to Offerors Performance and payment bonds when required shall be executed on forms furnished by the OWNER. Each bond shall be issued in an amount of 100% of the Contract Amount by a solvent corporate surety company authorized to do business in the State of Texas and shall meet any other requirements established by law or by the OWNER.

The OWNER reserves the right to reject any or all Proposals and to waive any minor informality (one that does not affect the competitiveness of the Proposal) in any Proposal or in the solicitation process

Inquiries from Offerors regarding this Invitation must be submitted through CivCAST. If an Offeror contacts any officer or employee of the OWNER, or any other representative of the OWNER, during the period beginning on the date this Invitation is issued and ending on the date of contract award or rejection to all offers by the OWNER, any offer submitted by the Offeror is subject to rejection by the OWNER

State Capital Highlights: December 21

Most Texas pregnancy deaths preventable

A long-awaited state report concludes most pregnancy-related deaths in Texas in 2019 were preventable and disproportionately affected Black women.

The report, issued by the Texas Department of State Health Services and the Texas Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Committee, indicated deaths were mainly attributable to hemorrhage, mental health conditions and blood clots. Also playing a role were discrimination and violence, according to a Dallas Morning News analysis of the report.

DSHS issued the report after months of delay, which drew criticism from members of the committee and maternal health advocates, as well as Democratic lawmakers.

Fourteen women died during pregnancy over the study period, while another 45 died up to a year after giving birth. The Legislature in the coming session is again likely to consider extending post-partum Medicaid assistance from six

months to one year, The News reported.

The “consistence of maternal health disparities” was noted by the committee as a key theme that runs through the report. Black women are twice as likely to experience serious health issues during childbirth.

“The report makes clear that state leaders must do more to prevent maternal deaths and support healthy pregnancies among Texas women of all backgrounds, regardless but particularly among Black women,” said Diana Forester, Director of Health Policy for the advocacy group Texans Care for Children.

Tornadoes cause millions in timber damage

A series of tornadoes throughout Northeast Texas in November damaged timber on 13,000 acres, causing an estimated $10 million in damages, according to a survey by the Texas A&M Forest Service.

Storms that swept across that area on Nov. 4 resulted in seven tornadoes, five of which

affected timberland in Bowie, Cass, Henderson, Morris and Red River counties, according to the forest service. A storm in Morris County resulted in one death.

Damaged trees were uprooted, snapped off below the crown or left leaning significantly. Most of the damage to timber was on private property, according to the report.

“We’ve developed protocols for rapidly assessing timber damage following major disasters that have become a model for similar efforts across the South,” said Dr. Aaron Stottlemyer of the forest service. “Our agency performance this work as a service to the people of Texas.”

Drought having considerable economic impact

The state’s ongoing drought has cost the Texas economy nearly $7.62 billion in direct agricultural losses, according to the Texas Water Development Board. With very little rainfall during the planting season, this year’s drought could have a similar effect next year on West Texas farmers and ranchers, who sustained serious losses in 2022. That’s according to a

recent report from the state comptroller’s office.

Currently about 15% of the state is experiencing extreme or exceptional drought conditions, while nearly 90% of the state still is abnormally dry, the report said.

“The state continues to work on improved management of its water resources as it continues to experience rapid growth in the urban areas, which potentially can compete with agricultural interests for a finite resource,” the report said.

“Whether in times of drought or flood, responsible water management ensures Texans see water as a resource — not a crisis. Texans around the state are employing innovative strategies to turn our water challenges into opportunities,” said Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar.

A welcome piece of news is that November was wetter than usual across much of the state.

Storage of the state’s water supply reservoirs is at 70% of capacity, 11 percentage points below normal for this time of year. Despite the bit of relief Texas experienced in November, drought conditions are expected to expand

over the next few months, according to Dr. Mark Wentzel, hydrologist with the Texas Water Development Board.

Wentzel wrote that La Niña conditions, which are largely responsible for the current drought, are expected to dissipate by spring, which may bring much-needed relief to drought-affected areas.

‘Seizing the moment’ in higher ed Texas Commissioner of Higher Education Harrison Keller has called on leaders in higher education, industry, philanthropy and government to “seize the moment” to meet three challenges facing Texas higher education today. Those areas are educational attainment, workforce education and research and development.

Speaking to nearly 300 attending this year’s Texas Higher Education Leadership Conference, Harrison said the foundation is in place because of added funding after the pandemic radically changed how higher education met the needs of its students.

“The heart of the matter is that expectations for

Santa Claus robs hometown bank

At high noon on Dec. 23, 1927, a man wearing a Santa Claus suit walked into the First National Bank of Cisco. With all eyes on their costumed confederate, three strangers took their assigned places in the lobby.

Behind the phony

known around the small town. During his stay in the state penitentiary, 24-year-old Marshall Ratliff dreamed of a homecoming hijacking. His twisted fantasy was about to become headline-grabbing reality.

Ratliff found willing accomplices in Wichita

and Bobby Hill were also alumni of the Texas Department of Corrections and needed little encouragement. Ratliff’s confident assurance of an easy $10,000 apiece was incentive enough.

The fourth recruit was a last-minute replacement for another ex-con, who had come down with the flu.

Related to Helms by marriage, Louis Davis was a rookie criminal in his mid-20’s with more children than dollars in his pockets. Quick cash for paying bills was all the desperate father wanted.

Everything went according to plan until a woman with her small daughter in tow opened the unlocked front door of the bank and strolled right into the robbery. Screaming hysterically, she rushed for the rear exit. The bandits froze, each apparently assuming someone else would stop her, and within seconds she was running down the brick street sounding the alarm at the top of her lungs.

Militant civic spirit and the lure of adventure attracted a small army. Besides police chief Bit Bedford and two patrolmen, dozens of armed merchants and

whiskers was a face well

passersby surrounded the bank. Another motivation was the $5,000 bounty.

Earlier that year, the Texas State Bankers Association offered to pay that colossal sum to any citizen who killed a bank robber. Since few Texans in the 1920’s could hope to earn $5,000 in an entire year, the First National felons represented a rare opportunity.

Clutching potato sacks stuffed with $12,200 in currency and $150,000 in negotiable bonds, the outlaw quartet stepped into an adjoining alley and a deadly shooting gallery. Undeterred by the sight of the woman bookkeeper and two teenaged girls serving as human shields, moneyhungry marksmen fired hundreds of rounds as the gang hurried toward their stolen getaway car.

Following a furious exchange of shots, the holdup men and hostages crowded into the waiting Buick. Buckshot and bullets riddled the sedan as it surged down the narrow alley and roared out of the downtown district.

The police chief and a patrolman lay mortally wounded. Six citizens had also been hit but would live to talk about the wildest day in the history of Cisco, Texas.

The desperadoes

HCISD, from Page 2

the report’s student projections include new housing construction, changes in birth rates, incoming kindergarten class sizes, aging of the existent student population, new charter schools, pandemicrelated loss and the regeneration of existing neighborhoods.

Charter schools are directly competing with HCISD in terms of student enrollment, which impacts the district’s funding. HCISD school enrollment only increased by 900 students instead of the likely increase of 1,500-1,700 since charter schools like

ditched the car, a rolling wreck with a flat tire, at the edge of town and

commandeered a passing Ford. But after transferring their passengers, loot and provisions to the second automobile, they realized the driver had made off with the ignition keys.

In a blind panic the gunmen jumped back in the crippled Buick and resumed their frantic flight. Louis Davis, dying from a shotgun blast to the stomach, was left behind along with the entire proceeds from the robbery and an emergency supply of food and water.

The Buick ran out of gas on the outskirts of Cisco because no one had remembered to refill the tank after the long drive from Wichita Falls.

The three remaining fugitives, two hobbled by gunshot wounds, turned the hostages loose and headed cross-country on foot. Ratliff was apprehended on the fifth day of the multi-county manhunt after a blazing gunbattle at a roadblock 50 miles north of Cisco.

Helms and Hill escaped into the thick underbrush but only postponed the inevitable. They crept into Graham two days later looking for food and a place to sleep and were captured without a fight.

Speedy trials resulted in death sentences for Helms and Ratliff, the nationally notorious Santa Claus. The tearfully contrite Hill rejoiced at receiving a 99-year prison term.

Henry Helms died at midnight on Sep. 5, 1929 in the electric chair at Huntsville. Unlike the stoic anti-heroes in the movies, he did not face his fate with cocky contempt. Two guards dragged him kicking and screaming to his doom.

The end for Marshall Ratliff came two months later at the hands of a lynch mob. Hours after his unsuccessful escape attempt, a crowd estimated at a thousand strong stormed the Eastland jail ten miles from Cisco chanting, “We want Santa Claus!” Ratliff was pulled from his cell and hanged on the spot.

The sole survivor of the Christmas caper was quietly paroled during World War II. Bobby Hill changed his name and disappeared to start a new life.

So many Cisco sharpshooters took credit for killing Louis Davis, the bankers association refused to pay the $5,000 reward. Just like Santa Claus and his helpers, no one got a dime.

Warmest Christmas wishes to the newspapers that carry “This Week in Texas History” and to my many loyal readers who have made it such a success.

Valor School and Doral Academy opened.

“Let’s just say, when we staff for teachers, we divide by 22 and that’s how many teachers we might get in the section. Well, if one or two of those students decide to go to the charter school, we’ve still got those 17 or 18 students. We don’t just get rid of a teacher, we don’t get to turn off the lights, we still got to keep the lights on, we still have to have that teacher there,” Cleaver said. “Incrementally, we lose that funding and so that’s why it’s kind of devastating to us.”

PASA predicts that

70% of total new housing projections over the next 10 years will be single family units in 132 active, planned or potential developments, with Sunfield, Waterstone and Prairie Lakes being the largest drivers of new occupancies. Multi-family occupancies are estimated to account for 26% of the total.

If you are interested in reviewing the full report, go to www.pasatx.com/ recent-reports/.

The next school board meeting will be held in the Kunkel Room at the Historic Buda Upper Campus, at 300 San Marcos St., on Jan. 17 at 5:30 p.m.

Falls. Henry Helms

Capital Highlights by Gary Borders

Texas History by Bartee Haile

Santa on Parade: Dashing through Kyle streets

higher education have changed, faster than anyone expected,” said Commissioner Keller. “Now, there is a significant disconnect between the scale of our needs in each of these areas versus what our higher education institutions and policies were designed to do.”

West Texas quake prompts RRC response

Another 5.4 magnitude earthquake, this time about a dozen miles north of Midland, prompted the Texas Railroad Commission to send inspectors to the area on Friday evening to “protect public safety and the environment.”

RRC inspectors are examining disposal activity at injection

wells near the site of the earthquake.

This comes after a similar-sized temblor was reported in Reeves County, near Pecos. That quake spurred the commission to implement several revisions designed to reduce the occurrence of such events, generally believed to be caused by water injected into disposal wells during oil and gas operations.

The goal, according to the RRC, is to “address the intensity and frequency of earthquakes in the area.”

The West Texas area that will come under the restrictions has been expanded northward to the New Mexico border. There are 78 active disposal wells in that area, according to the

RRC.

New COVID-19 cases rise slightly

The number of new COVID-19 cases reported in Texas during the past week inched up to 29,557, with 84 deaths reported by the Coronavirus Resource Center at Johns Hopkins University. The Texas Department of State Health Services reported 2,181 lab-confirmed hospitalizations across the state as of Sunday, also a slight increase.

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

~ NANCY Ascension Seton patient and new mom

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Hear more from Nancy and others:

My doctors collaborate, and that makes my life easier.

PHOTOS BY BRITTANY ANDERSON

Left, Santa made his way through dozens of neighborhoods in Kyle on Dec. 13-15 to spread Christmas cheer. Right, the community gathered at Mary Kyle Hartson City Square Park on Dec. 14 to wave to Santa and the Grinch before they headed down Center Street and through more neighborhoods in southeast Kyle. Residents also got to see the lighted Hays CISD school bus.

PHOTO BY BRITTANY ANDERSON

The Grinch proclaimed his innocence, but was caught wearing a Hays County Jail shirt and trailing behind Santa’s sleigh behind bars.

Christmas in North Hays County

By Amira Van Leeuwen

KYLE — When Kristine Lilly was growing up, her mother sent her off to school with homemade gingerbread houses for her class party before Christmas break.

“It was magical,” Lilly said.

As COVID-19 exploded in 2020, Lilly recalled handing out candy with a mask and tongs at Halloween and her kids, being in the armed forces, could not come home.

“I was really concerned. How are we going to feel joy at Christmas time?” she wondered.

She reflected on her childhood and thought, “Maybe I can just turn my whole house into the gingerbread house and people can just drive by and maybe it'll spark some magic in their heart for the season.”

That was when the Kyle Gingerbread House, a life-sized gingerbread house, was born.

The house is located at 285 McGarity St. in Kyle. Most of the house’s decorations are handmade by Lilly, who sits on her living room floor with cutting tools to cut and glue things together. Lilly is good at math, which helps her when measuring the roofline and figuring out how the pieces will fit together.

Lilly also bakes gingerbread cookies and sells gingerbread house kits, wax melts, candles and hot cocoa to offset the cost of the Gingerbread House decorations. But there is more to the Gingerbread House than meets the eye.

When she was in her 20s, Lilly and her children suffered from

food insecurity, so she would make transportation arrangements to and from the food bank. She was grateful for the food bank during that time of hardship and wanted to give back.

“Food insecurity is not an issue that just affected us then, it’s every day, everywhere, and it shouldn’t be that way. Nobody should be hungry ever in this country — the wealthiest country in the world,” she said.

On a few nights of the holiday season, she hosts food drives requesting that attendees bring non-perishable food items to donate to the Hays County Food Bank. The drive also includes a visit with Santa and free hot cocoa and peppermint candies.

Over the past couple of years, she noticed that the second drive is “always bigger” than the first. In a food drive on Dec. 3, she collected $230 in cash donations and more than 500 pounds of food.

Lilly’s granddaughter, Gabrielle Helms, 11, loves helping at the Gingerbread House.

“I like how we can raise donations for the Hays County Food Bank,” Helms said. “We work really hard to put all this together.”

One of Lilly’s favorite products is her infamous gingerbread cookies, which is an old family recipe.

“I don’t share it with anybody, but everybody says my gingerbread cookies are the best they’ve ever had in their entire life,” Lilly said. “I really enjoy making them too.”

At its most recent food drive on Saturday, the Kyle Gingerbread House raised $665 and received 1,011 pounds of donated food.

PHOTOS BY AMIRA VAN LEEUWEN

Above, the Kyle Gingerbread House in the daytime. Below, owner and creator of the Kyle Gingerbread House, Kristine Lilly.

‘Tis the season

The countdown to Christmas is in full swing! From twinkly lights to candy canes and even character inflatables, families have decked out their homes with holiday décor. We asked our readers to send in their festive photos to have a chance of being featured in the paper.