Construction begins on preserve
Tiger softball shuts out two teams
page 2
Tiger Baseball beats Lions
page 5
News-Dispatch Volume XXXVIII No. 24
Serving Western Hays County, Texas since 1982
page 5
75¢ Thursday, March 22, 2018
Hays County on alert due to bomb incidents BY MOSES LEOS III
RENDERING COURTESY OF MATT FAJKUS ARCHITECTURE
Tuesday’s vote marked the third time the Dripping Springs City Council had taken up the site development permit for the proposed wedding venue, which is located along Crystal Hills Drive in Dripping Springs’ extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ).
Controversial Mark Black wedding venue approved by 2-1 council vote BY EXSAR ARGUELLO
After weeks of debate, the Dripping Springs City Council Tuesday approved a permit application for the Mark Black Wedding Venue by a split 2-1 vote. Council member Taline Manassian and Mayor Pro Tem Bill Foulds approved the agreement, while Council member Wade King cast the lone
dissenting vote. Council members John Kroll and Travis Crow were absent from the meeting. Approval of the Site Development Permit Application for the venue was contingent on adding a note to the Water Quality Sheets regarding vegetative filter strips. Requirements called for a minimum 75 percent vegetative cover before final acceptance of the project and im-
plementing additional cross-sections and details regarding temporary sedimentation ponds to its plans. Tuesday’s vote marked the third time the Dripping Springs City Council had taken up the site development permit for the proposed wedding venue, which is located along Crystal Hills Drive in Dripping Springs’ extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ). City leaders
had previously tabled discussion on the matter Feb. 13 and Feb. 20. Prior to the vote, concerned residents of a neighborhood near the venue packed into Dripping Springs City Hall to voice their discontent. Dripping Springs City Hall Tuesday was at capacity, according to the Hays County Fire Marshal. The Friendship Alliance, a group represent-
ing the neighborhoods of Radiance, Goldenwood and Goldenwood West, brought to the table deficiencies found in the venue’s site development plans. Laura Ross, an engineer representing Friendship Alliance, said the engineering plans for the wedding venue only achieve around 76 percent removal of pol-
WEDDING VENUE, 2
Dahlstrom Ranch preserve construction begins Dreams of the late Gay Dahlstrom for turning part of her family’s vast ranch into a space for ecological stewardship and education is slowly coming to fruition. With the help of $100,000 in state grants, Hays County earlier this year began construction on a public 3.15-mile trail system located within the 384-acre Gay Ruby Dahlstrom Preserve. The preserve is part of a 2,254-acre conservation
easement, or protected natural land, located along FM 967 that’s owned by the Dahlstrom family. Clint Garza, Hays County Development Services coordinator, said moving forward with the preserve “means a ton,” as it will provide more open space to Hays County residents. “That’s the direction our commissioners court has wanted to go toward and that’s great,” Garza said. “It’s going to give folks access to venture
out in to nature and for us to hang on to the things that make this area so great.” Origins of the Gay and Ruby Dahlstrom Preserve began in 2007 when Hays County voters approved a $30 million bond for parks improvements. Part of those improvements were to create more open space areas and parkland for residents. But a major component was securing
DAHLSTROM RANCH, 2
BOMB AWARENESS, 2
LAGNIAPPE New locations for probate hearing dates PHOTO BY CYNDY SLOVAK-BARTON
The wildlife manager for the ranch shows one of the caves that funnels water into the Edwards Aquifer.
Through traffic?
Concerns rise over neighborhood connectivity in Dripping Springs BY EXSAR ARGUELLO Dripping Springs officials are looking at ways to alleviate traffic concerns along Highway 290 by connecting neighborhood roads to provide alternative routes to Travis County. One of the newest methods theorized by city and Hays County officials would be a road connecting Tierra Trail in the Headwaters subdivision to Oak Meadow Drive in the Sunset Canyon North neighborhood. The idea, however, was met with concern from area residents regarding the proposed new connection. While a compromise
CONNECTIVITY, 6
*
BY MOSES LEOS III
A state of high alert stemming from the actions of a serial bomber in Austin has led to a handful of suspicious package calls across Hays County. While none of the reasons for the calls were deemed to be of any threat, authorities continue to urge vigilance for residents when it comes to receiving packages on their doorstep. Jeff Barnett, Kyle Police Chief, said the department has received roughly a dozen calls relating to suspicious packages over the past week. None of the packages were found to be a threat, Barnett said. Meanwhile, Buda Police fielded five calls over the weekend for suspicious packages, said Brittany Tate, Buda Police Department Public Information Officer. None of the five packages were threatening and all of them were shipped through regular mail, Tate said. In one instance, a call came from a person who did not recognize the sender of a package that contained a gift from a friend. “It’s people being overly cautious, I think,” Tate said. “It’s definitely got everyone on high alert.” But the mantra of “see something, say some-
A proposed road connecting Tierra Trail in the Headwaters subdivision to Oak Meadow Drive in the Sunset Canyon North neighborhood would allow Headwaters residents to shave nearly four miles off their commutes to Bee Cave via CR 185
Area attorneys and other individuals seeking probate court dates now have an opportunity to have their cases heard outside of San Marcos. County Court-at-Law #2 Judge David Glickler will hear probate cases March 29 in Kyle at 2 p.m.; May 2 in Wimberley at 3 p.m.; and April 23 in Dripping Springs at 2 p.m. All cases will be held at County precinct offices in the Justice of the Peace courtrooms. To have a hearing placed on the docket, call 512-393-7625 to make arrangements. Probate matters are usually heard by the two County Court-at-Law judges at the Hays County Government Center in San Marcos. Attorneys and other individuals who are interested in attending these localized dockets can contact the County Court-at-Law offices at 512-393-7625 to make arrangements. County Precinct Offices are located at 195 Roger Hanks Parkway in Dripping Springs, 5458 FM 2770 in Kyle, and 200 Stillwater in Wimberley.
LAGNIAPPE, 2
Page 2
News-Dispatch
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EDITOR Moses Leos III
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News-Dispatch (USPS 011 - 401) is published weekly except for the weeks following July 4 and Christmas by Barton Publications, Inc., 113 W. Center St., Kyle, TX 78640. Subscription price: $42 local, $59 county, $62 out of state. Periodicals Postage paid at Driftwood, TX. Email paper@ haysnewsdispatch. com for subscriptions and address changes. POSTMASTER: send address changes to News-Dispatch, PO Box 339, Buda, TX 78610 LETTERS GUIDELINES 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.
Bomb Awareness: Hays County on alert after Austin incidents Continued from pg. 1
thing” still applies, especially after a fourth bombing occurred Sunday in Austin, Barnett said. According to multiple reports, two men were injured after an explosive device went off in a neighborhood in Southwest Austin. The incident marks the fourth bombing that’s taken place in Austin in the last two weeks, and the first to have happened west of Interstate 35. The previous three bombings in Austin took place in east Austin and involved an explosive device in unmarked packages. “This is a time when we need everyone to be vigilant for each other and watch out and be aware of what’s going on in your community,” Barnett said. He added residents should pay attention to packages they receive. Additionally, Barnett said residents should notify
How prevalent is crime in Buda and Kyle? A recent report showed Buda and Kyle were within the top 55 safest cities in Texas, according to statistics from the 2016 FBI Uniform Crime Report. Below are the number of offenses known to law enforcement, according to the 2016 crime report results.
BUDA
Violent crimes – 13 Murder or non-negligent manslaughter – 0 Rape – 0 Robbery – 6 Aggravated Assault – 7 Property Crime – 273 Burglary – 14 Larceny (theft) – 236 Motor vehicle theft – 23 Arson – 0
law enforcement immediately if they see an unmarked package, and should avoid picking up any unmarked packages. “It’s created more awareness for something that we have taken for granted,” Tate said. “It nev-
KYLE
Violent crimes – 77 Murder or non-negligent manslaughter – 3 Rape – 8 Robbery – 7 Aggravated Assault – 59 Property Crime – 612 Burglary – 75 Larceny (theft) – 483 Motor vehicle theft – 54 Arson – 1
er hurts to be more vigilant and cautious on the items you’re receiving.” Dennis Gutierrez, Hays County Sheriff’s Office public information officer, said county officials have fielded 51 suspicious package calls since the
initial Austin bombing March 2. The most recent call came from a residence on Elderberry Road in Dripping Springs. Much like other departments, authorities have not found a threat, but continue to urge vig-
ilance. Gutierrez said many people are “scared and rightfully so,” and that the county takes all suspicious package calls seriously. “It’s always been someone that’s left a lunchbox or forgot they were getting a package,” Gutierrez said. Hays County Sheriff’s officials are also making residents aware of indicators pf a suspicious package. Those include packages wrapped in string or twine, or packages with no postage or excessive postage. “Due to the recent bombing incidents in Austin the last two weeks, Sheriff Gary Cutler is encouraging everyone to call 9-1-1 to report any suspicious person or vehicle that they observe in their neighborhood,” according to Hays County officials.
Dahlstrom Ranch: Preserve construction begins Continued from pg. 1
land with the help of willing landowners, whether through its outright sale or through a conservation easement. In 2010, Hays County, along with the city of Austin and the Hill Country Conservancy (HCC), agreed to purchase a conservation easement for the Dahlstrom Property. According to the HCC, the agreement was the first of its kind to involve a private landowner and local and state government. Frank Davis, Director of Land Stewardship at the HCC, said Gay Dahlstrom, who passed away in 2015, was “integral” to making the preserve a reality. Dahlstrom also insisted on making part of her ranch accessible to the public for educational purposes. That includes the trail system, which has a total price tag of $200,000, Garza said. “She (Dahlstrom) told us, the whole step of the way, to provide limited access for folks to see the legacy of this ranch,” Da-
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With the help of $100,000 in state grants, Hays County earlier this year began construction on a public 3.15-mile trail system located within the 384acre Gay Ruby Dahlstrom Preserve. The preserve is part of a 2,254-acre conservation easement, or protected natural land, located along FM 967 that’s owned by the Dahlstrom family. vis said. Dahlstrom’s mentality also strayed from what typically occurs with a conservation easement. Davis said most conservation easements are purchased from private landowners who have “good reason” for wanting to maintain privacy on their ranches. Davis said the conservation easements provide benefits to water quality protection and the protection of wildlife. In the case of the Dahlstrom Ranch, Davis said the goal was to preserve karsts, or small caves, that are critical for recharge of the Edwards
Aquifer. A steering committee was formed a decade ago to start the planning process, Davis said. The committee included all stakeholders. Starting the project, however, has taken some time. Garza said recovery efforts stemming from the 2015 Memorial Day flood led to the delay of the Dahlstrom preserve. Davis said deliberation also centered on ensuring the trail was done correctly and wouldn’t impact the water quality aspects of the ranch. “It’s been a slow process to make this a reality, but
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it will be a huge benchmark to have the groundbreaking,” Davis said. Public access will have its limitations. Unlike other area trails, such as the Violet Crown, only a certain number of people will be allowed in the park at one time, Davis said. The preserve will also only be open during certain seasons. The preventive measures are to ensure the habitat remains as unspoiled as possible. “The idea is basically, as a team, we’re all ensuring the land is protected while allowing folks to enjoy the beauty of it at the same time,” Davis said. Part of that process is ensuring the construction of the trails, as well as a parking lot for visitors, is done in an environmentally sensitive manner. Brooke Leftwich, Hays County natural resource manager, said the county
has employed Blair Wildlife Consulting, as well as Plateau Wildlife Management as a third-party to oversee trail and parking lot construction. Hays County, along with Austin, HCC and the Dahlstrom family are also involved in the construction process. “It’s a nice partnership,” Leftwich said. “We’re working to build a new green space for people.” The challenges of protecting greenspace in a rapidly growing county is ever present, Davis said. While he believes area governments are doing “quite a lot” to preserve green space, these entities are not keeping pace with growth. The HCC holds 10,000 acres of easements in Hays County, with plans to work on another 1,000 or so acres of land near the Blanco River in Wimberley in the future. Davis believes focusing on green infrastructure, or land that assists with flood mitigation is needed. Garza said Hays County asks developers to dedicate green space for future subdivisions or properties. “It will not be a desireable place to live if we don’t pick up the pace of protecton,” Davis said.
Lagniappe
Continued from pg. 1
Easter Bunny comes to historic railroad depot The Easter Bunny will be at Kyle Railroad Depot and Heritage Center on Saturday, March 31 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Come and enjoy this free event. Lemonade and cookies will be served, along with
treat bags for the children, and there will be plenty of opportunities for parents to take photos of their children with Mr. Bunny. The Depot and Center is located at 100 N. Front Street. Regular hours are Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for visitors. Additional information about this historic site is at http://www.cityofkyle. com/community/historic-train-depot or call 512-262-1188.
Mark Black Wedding Venue Continued from pg. 1
See solution, page 5
lutants, where the requirements for the removal of total phosphorus and total grease is at 90 percent. Andrew Evans, project manager at Kimly-Horn and engineer for the Mark Black Wedding Venue, refuted Ross and said the project’s permits are inline with the requirements set by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and the city’s ordinances. The agreement was approved after an hour of deliberation from engineers of both parties. Carlos Torres-Verdin, president of the Friendship Alliance, said he believes the city is breaking its own ordinances by approving this project. He
cited information presented to the city council on Feb. 20 that claimed to show five violations to city ordinance. Verdin said the Friendship Alliance is exploring several options moving forward. One option centered on the Friendship Alliance potentially buying Black’s property, so he can “move his venue to a safer location,” Torres-Verdin said. “We will take action according to a study we will be conducting with the neighbors and lawyers,” Torres-Verdin said. “The city is breaking its ordinances by approving this project and that it was troubling to see how bias the process was.”
Thursday, March 22, 2018
www.HaysNewsDispatch.com
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Sports
Tiger softball shuts out Chargers, Mules BY MOSES LEOS III
A complete game, no-hit effort from pitcher Logan Hulon paved the way for the Dripping Springs Tigers to shut out the Boerne Champion Chargers 7-0 March 13. Two days later, the Tigers followed with a 10-0 run-rule March 15 win in six innings over the Alamo Heights Mules. The two Spring Break victories allowed Dripping Springs (16-6, 4-1) to take possession of second place in the district standings as the midpoint of the district slate nears. Dripping Springs began its Spring Break with a lopsided win over Champion. Tiger bats picked apart Champion freshman pitcher Blake Holtorf, who went six innings and conceded 12 hits and seven earned runs. Tiger junior Ryann Campbell provided the offense by going 2 for 3 in the contest and finishing with five total RBIs, which included a double and a home run. Dripping Springs junior Camille Corona went 3 for 4 at the plate and
PHOTOS BY WAYLAND CLARK, WFOTOS.COM
Ryann Campbell (above) blasts the ball off of the Tigers’ right field fence for a three run in the park home run in the bottom of the fifth inning. Campbell had 5 RBI in the 7-0 win against Boerne Champion during Spring Break on Tuesday, March 13. (right) Riley Dunn displays classic form by following the ball all the way into her glove on an infield pop-up for the second out in the top of the sixth inning. Dunn, at shortstop, also helped turn a double play with second baseman Camille Corona in the top of the fourth to end the inning.
scored two runs, while senior Danielle Northrup and Izzy Bermudez went 2 for 3. Hulon struck out 14 Charger batters over the course of seven innings and was four walks away from a perfect game. Hulon returned on March 15 and struck out
Tiger baseball crushes Lions 7-2 BY MOSES LEOS III Consistent offense helped the Dripping Springs Tigers blast the Lockhart Lions 7-2 March 15 and extend the team’s win streak to seven games. The victory also capped off a successful Spring Break for the Tigers as they outscored their three opponents 19-8. Dripping Springs began the week by defeating Seguin 3-1 March 13 to even the team’s district record to 1-1. Dripping Springs then cruised past Del Valle in a non-district 9-5 victory. Leading the way for Dripping Springs was senior pitcher Johnny Hoyle, who struck out 10 batters and gave up two unearned runs on seven hits in a complete game effort. Hoyle helped his own cause at the plate by going 3 for 4 with a pair of RBIs in the game. Tiger senior Brittain Howeth went 2 for 4 with a double and 2 RBIs, while senior Reed Beverly went 1 for 3 with a triple in the game. As a team, Dripping Springs went 11 for 28 at the plate on the afternoon. Dripping Springs led 4-0 over Lockhart after two innings, and then increased its lead to 6-0 after the fifth frame. Lockhart countered with a pair of runs in the sixth frame, but the Tigers responded with a pair of runs in the bottom half. The Tigers continued district play Tuesday when they hosted Boerne Champion, which entered the game unbeaten in district. Dripping Springs travels to play at Alamo Heights on March 23 before returning home to play Medina Valley on March 26.
14 more batters in the team’s shutout win over Alamo Heights. Over the course of her six innings, Hulon gave up three hits and three walks with only one wild pitch. Campbell went 3 for 4 in the Heights game and added three more RBIs to
her total. Corona went 2 for 4 in the game and had a trio of RBIs. Dripping Springs will hit the road for a ame against Marble Falls on March 23, followed by a road game at Kerrville Tivy March 27. The Tigers host Seguin March 29 at 7 p.m.
Thank you Coach Garrido for what you’ve done for the game of baseball BY MOSES LEOS III
One of the most common conventional wisdoms out there extends to a journalist’s ability to stay cool under pressure. This especially applies to the realm of interviewing a subject for a story, and how a journalist should keep his or her emotions in check and project an air of confidence. None of that took place when I was face-to-face with Augie Garrido at TD Ameritrade Park one night in June 2014 after his Texas Longhorns won a game at the College World Series. From the moment I walked up to Garrido and extended my recording device with a shaky hand, I knew I was in trouble. There in front of me was the man who would become the all-time winningest collegiate baseball coach in the game’s history. Garrido was also a guy who wasn’t afraid to speak his mind, especially to reporters, and call out poorly crafted queries. He was also someone I grew up admiring while living in the Austin area during my high school years. Watching his teams notch win after win, especially that 25-inning marathon over Boston College my dad and I got to see in 2009, was gratifying. So perhaps it was normal for me to lock up like a deer in the headlights when Garrido began to speak. But those ensuing eight minutes Garrido spent talking to me and other reporters felt as good as gold. My mind hung on every word that came out of his mouth, no matter how small the detail. And, by God, could that man wax wisdom. Garrido, known for his intellect and knowledge of life and the
PHOTO BY WAYLAND CLARK, WFOTOS.COM
Longtime Texas Longhorn head baseball coach Augie Garrido scans the field at UFCU Disch Falk Field. Last week, Garrido, who led the Longhorn baseball program to national championships in 2002 and 2005, passed away at the age of 79. Garrido coached several Dripping Springs area athletes, including former Tiger Parker French.
There in front of me was the man who would become the all-time winningest collegiate baseball coach in the game’s history. Garrido was also a guy who wasn’t afraid to speak his mind, especially to reporters, and call out poorly crafted queries. game, expressed his zen-like viewpoints to the crowd of senior journalists and a wobbly-kneed rookie. That wisdom was put on full display a few days later when Garrido faced a room full of reporters after Texas lost to eventual national champion Vanderbilt on an RBI infield single. Most coaches would have hemmed and hawed a season-ending loss. Instead, Garrido chose to approach it from a big-picture standpoint, understanding that the
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moment encapsulated the larger scheme of life and its disappointments, and to look on the bright side of things. Perhaps that’s what I’ll miss from Garrido, who sadly passed away earlier this week due to complications from a stroke at the age of 79. No doubt did Garrido play a vital role in the success of multiple programs over his career. But he also made an impact on those he coached and talked to as well. The local connection to Garrido also can’t be forgot-
ten. Garrido guided Dripping Springs Tiger alumnus and current professional baseball player Parker French to a whirlwind of success. In a statement on his Twitter page, French thanked Garrido for “teaching us that doing what’s right is paramount.” “Thank you for showing us that the team always comes first. Thank you for demanding us to win at every aspect of life,” French said in his statement. “These lessons are many more the real reason why you are the greatest of all time. It was an honor to play for you and be a small part of your incredible legacy.” Perhaps we in the local community should also thank Garrido for what he has done for the game, for his students and for his community. Thank you, coach. For everything.
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News-Dispatch
Thursday, March 22, 2018
Education
Dripping Springs Elementary named ‘Lighthouse School’ SUBMITTED REPORT
PHOTO BY XXXXXX
Varun Verna, Christopher Gearing, Christian Pundt, Mason Mohon pose for a photo at the UIL Class 5A CX Debate state tournament.
Two DSHS teams compete at state CX debate tourney SUBMITTED REPORT
Two policy debate teams from Dripping Springs High School compete March 16-17 at the UIL State Meet for CX Debate. The team of Christopher Gearing and Varun Verma reached the quarterfinals, which means the pair was one of the top eight teams in the 5A division. In addition, the team of Christian Pundt and Mason Mohon made the top 16 by advancing to octafinals. This year’s CX Debate topic was Resolved: the
United States federal government should substantially increase its funding and/or regulation of elementary and/ or secondary education in the United States. The affirmative team researched and prepared a case defending a policy to support the resolution. Teams debated about policies like equalizing funding for schools, improving school infrastructure, increasing funding for STEM education, and regulating school discipline procedures. The negative team is responsible for identifying the
flaws or disadvantages of implementing the affirmative policy. There were approximately 60 teams in the 5A division representing the 32 UIL districts across Texas. UIL CX State has four preliminary rounds on Day 1. The top 16 teams based on record and speaker points make it to Day 2. Both DSHS teams had a 3-1 prelim record. The advancing teams compete on Day 2 in a single-elimination format until only one team remains. Lindale High School repeated as 5A champions this year.
Students receive honors at State Reflections contest SUBMITTED REPORT The work of six Dripping Springs ISD students received recognition at the 2017 Texas PTA “Reflections” State Contest. A total of 18 Dripping Springs students qualified for the state competition. Student work is submitted in one of six categories and evaluated based on artistic merit,
creativity, mastery of the medium, and interpretation of the theme; this year’s theme was “Within Reach.” Three students received the prestigious Award of Merit: Michael Gearing for his musical composition “Waves of Sound,” Devyn Bromley for her visual arts entry titles “Equality for All,” and Danica Best for her dance
choreography, “Believer.” In addition, receiving honorable mention were: Anna Haffelfinger for “Arm’s Length” (Photography), Grayson Anderson for “Nija Friends” (Photography) and Annika Revill for “The Lifesaver” (Visual Arts). All state qualifiers will be recognized at the March 26 DSISD Board of Trustees meeting.
Dripping Springs Elementary has been certified and named as a Leader in Me “Lighthouse School” by FranklinCovey Education. This designation recognizes that the school has produced outstanding results in school and student outcomes, has implemented the Leader in Me process with fidelity and excellence, and that DSE has an extraordinary impact on staff, students, parents, and the greater community. “We are honored to have been certified and named a Leader in Me Lighthouse School,” said Kelly Raymond, Dripping Springs Elementary principal. “We have seen amazing results from implementing the Leader in Me process at our school, such as student ownership of learning, decreased discipline issues, and an enhanced leadership environment.” The Lighthouse Certification is a highly regarded standard set by FranklinCovey Education that is attainable by every Leader in Me school. As it is a significant benchmark, applying for this certification typically occurs three to five years after a school begins the Leader in Me process. Dripping Springs Elementary first implemented Leader in Me in 2014. Of the nearly 4,000 schools that have adopted Leader in Me, only about 300 schools have achieved the prestigious Lighthouse certification. Dripping Springs Elementary will maintain its Lighthouse Certification the next two years and will continue to foster its growth and proficiency in exemplifying a leadership culture
In order to earn the Lighthouse designation, schools demonstrate the following:
• The principal, school administration and staff engage in ongoing learning and develop as leaders, while championing leadership for the school. • Leadership principles are effectively taught to all students through direct lessons, integrated approaches, and staff modeling. Students are able to think critically about and apply leadership principles. • Families and the school partner together in learning about the 7 Habits and leadership principles through effective communication and mutual respect. • The school community is able to see leadership in the physical environment, hear leadership through the common language of the 7 Habits, and feel leadership through a culture of caring, relationships, and affirmation. • Leadership is shared with students through a variety of leadership roles and student voice leads to innovations within the school. • Schoolwide, classroom, family and community leadership events provide authentic environments to celebrate leadership, build culture, and allow students to practice leadership skills. • The school utilizes the 4DX® process to identify and track progress toward Wildly Important Goals (WIGs) for the school, classroom, and staff. • Students lead their own learning with the skills to assess their needs, set appropriate goals, and carry out action plans. They track progress toward goals in Leadership Notebooks and share these notebooks with adults in student-led conferences. • Teacher planning and reflection, trusting relationships, and student-led learning combine to create environments for highly engaged learning.
and principles. At the end of the two years, DSE will be able to recertify its Lighthouse Certification through a virtual self-assessment, describing and celebrating its growth and accomplishments since its original Lighthouse designation. Leader in Me is a whole-school transformation model and process – developed in partnership with educators – that empowers students with the leadership and life skills they need to thrive in the 21st Century. Students learn how to become self-reliant, take initiative, plan ahead, set and track goals, do
their homework, prioritize their time, manage their emotions, be considerate of others, express their viewpoint persuasively, resolve conflicts, find creative solutions, value differences, and live a balanced life. Leader in Me integrates several leadership, social-emotional learning, quality, and educational models and processes from past and current thought leaders including The 4 Imperatives of Great Leaders and The 4 Disciplines of Execution. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People is also a key component of the overall process.
DSEF awards student leadership grants A total of 25 student-driven projects were funded through the Dripping Springs Education Foundation’s annual Student Leadership Grant program. Student Leadership Grants are designed to foster the development of students’ leadership skills through their efforts to serve their school, community, or others in the world. Students, together with their faculty sponsors, apply for the grants during the fall semester. A total of $27,630 was awarded. This year’s winners, along with the projects they will implement, are:
DRIPPING SPRINGS ELEMENTARY
“Game Nation” Faculty Sponsor: Kari Potter Student Leaders: Kyle Wigfield, Nixon Badilla, Anthony Keithly, Jax Leatherwood, Grover Bendall, Gram Bendall, Maverick Jacobs, Brady Donahue “Producing Privacy” Faculty Sponsor: Kari Potter Student Leaders: Everett Kling, Sloan Rodriguez, Bo Morton, Nicholas Dudek, Stephen Bohnenkamp “Science Seekers” Faculty Sponsor: Kari Potter & Vicki King Student Leaders: Carina King, Evan Bergeron “The Garden Center” Faculty Sponsor: Melanie Hernandez Student Leader: Katerina Thomas
“The Sunshine Society” Faculty Sponsor: Kari Potter Student Leaders: Gabrielle Faivre, Mackenzie Sullivan, Dane Mason
ROOSTER SPRINGS ELEMENTARY
“Rooster Writers” Faculty Sponsor: Kristen Northrup Student Leaders: Isla Conreaux, Taylor Temple
SYCAMORE SPRINGS ELEMENTARY
“Grant For Plant” Faculty Sponsor: Kelly Garner Student Leaders: Addison Murray, Molly Blackmon “ROAR - Researching Outdoor Animals Responsibly” Faculty Sponsor: Lisa Stoll Student Leaders: Addison Everline, Sophia Cipriano, Leah Minton, Katy Sonnier, Ashton Shipman, Giana Aluia, Stephanie Gearing “Protect Our Trail” Faculty Sponsor: Lisa Stoll Student Leaders: Trenton Trotter, Nolan Rojas, Will Gardiner, Ryan Shinn, Roman Pavlyk, Elandri Botha, Jackson Fowlkes “News On The SSE Block” Faculty Sponsor: Lisa Stoll Student Leaders: Evan Murphy, Glenn Banton, RJ Jones, Charlie Windsor, Matthew Johnson, Gavin Scott, Isabella Verhulst “Raised Garden at SSES” Faculty Sponsor:
Kim Bird Student Leaders: Annalisa McComas, Alyssa Lantz, Katrin Smith “Eggspert Learning” Faculty Sponsor: Sarah Chew Student Leaders: Tana Steinbach, Ella Constable, Elizabeth Gardner, Kylie May, Paige Harris, Ryleigh Neff, Lily Patterson, Colton Papp “School Maker Faire” Faculty Sponsor: Kelly Garner Student Leaders: Crispin Lovelace, Fletcher Lovelace, Vivian Sommer “Project Hydration” Faculty Sponsor: Kelly Garner Student Leaders: Vivian Sommer, Stephanie Gearing “Building a Community of Readers” Faculty Sponsor: Brandis Smoland Stu-
dent Leaders: Mia Wilson, Harper Whitenight, Abigail Stanaland, Soleil Bryant “Care Kits” Faculty Sponsor: Laura Roye Student Leaders: Becca Clement, Kaylee Cluver, Trudy Lagarde, Bliss Mohon
WALNUT SPRINGS ELEMENTARY
“Software Team” Faculty Sponsor: Kari Potter Student Leaders: Jacob Farley, James Engel, Brayden Herrick, Grant Gillam, Gram Bale, Max Osterhues, Caleb Nelson “Collaborative Classroom Companions” Faculty Sponsor: Denise Thomas Student Leaders: Bryce Rodrigue, Brandon Froidcoeur “Kemistry Kids” Faculty
Sponsor: Kari Potter, Kristi Fout Student Leaders: Jack Kroll, John Preston, Lebas Ellington, Jayson Ellington
DRIPPING SPRINGS MIDDLE SCHOOL “Handicap Accessible Garden” Faculty Sponsor: Catherine O’Grady Student Leaders: Gracie Kirk, Charlotte Evans Mariana Cruz
SYCAMORE SPRINGS MIDDLE SCHOOL
“SSMS Recycling/Ecology Club” Faculty Sponsor: Karen Hubley Student Leaders: Hailey Jarvis, Zoi Gilchrist, Sophie Caillabet, Jackson Rawls
DRIPPING SPRINGS HIGH SCHOOL
“Encouraging Reading in Children Library” Faculty Sponsor: Emily Groce Student Leaders: Riley Ruchti, Liliana Reyes “Computer-Aided Manufacture Technologies” Faculty Sponsor: Jad Jadeja Student Leaders: Bryce Fitzpatrick, Jason Fitzpatrick, Cole Scott “Foster Village Team Bags” Faculty Sponsor: Sara Freeman Student Leaders: Caitlyn Brack, Kiaya Brack, Korena Brack (DSMS), Hannah Brack (DSE) “Lend A Hand” Faculty Sponsor: Jad Jadeja Student Leaders: Gabrielle Avena, Sierra Stevens, Melissa Richardson, Alissa Ordway, Anya Thomas, Natalie Chavez
Worship in a church of your choice Call 512-268-7862 to join the church directory today.
Sunset Canyon Baptist Church 8:45 AM
Sunday Morning
11:00 AM
Sunday Worship
5:45 PM
Wednesday Meal
6:30 PM
Wed TouchPoint
A Family of Faith...
SCBC Preschool Children Ministries Youth Ministries Family Ministries
www.sunsetcanyonchurch.org
(512) 894-0480
4000 E. HWY 290
St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church Mass Schedule
Rev. Charlie
Spanish Mass Sunday: 1:30 p.m.
corner of RR 12 & Post Oak in Dripping Springs
Garza, pastor Saturday: 5 p.m. Located at the Sunday: 8:15 a.m., 11 a.m., 5 p.m.
512-858-5667
www.stmartindp.org
Classifieds Thursday, March 22, 2018
20 words for $8!
Place your classified ad by calling 512-268-7862 or send an email to paper@haysnewsdispatch.com. We accept Visa, Mastercard and Discover
DEADLINE: NOON MONDAY FOR THURSDAY’S PAPER
www.HaysNewsDispatch.com
Page 5
Employment
TDS JOB FAIR
On Site Interviews
March 24th, 9 a.m - 12 p.m. Fairfield Inn & Suites (Marriott) 1240 Cabelas Drive Buda TX 78610
Come join our growing company!
Competitive Pay, Great Benefits, Paid Leave Current Openings • CDL Drivers • Heavy Equipment Operators
To apply, visit TexasDisposal.com/careers For inquiries, please call (512) 421-7624
• Mechanics • Sales Representatives • Customer Care Reps • Gatehouse Attendants ... and more.
OIL AND GAS RIGHTS
We buy oil, gas & mineral rights. Both non- producing and producing including non-Participating Royalty 20.2 acres, Duval County, south Texas brush country. Interest (NPRI). Provide us your desired price for an Deer, hogs, and quail. $4,035 down, $668/mo. (9.9%, offer evaluation. 806-620-1422, LoboMineralsLLC@ 30 years), larger tracts available. 866-286-0199. www. gmail.com. Lobo Minerals, LLC, PO Box 1800, Lubbock, TX 79408-1800. texasbrushcountry.com.
ACREAGE
AUCTION
TRUCK DRIVERS
Karnes City – Annual Long Live Cowboys Special Female Replacement Sale, Sat., March 24 at noon. 400+ females. Karnes City Auction, Inc., 830-623-2855, 1918 Hwy. 80, Karnes City, TX, www.karnescityauction.com.
Be Your Own Boss! Get Paid to see the Country! Quality Drive-Away is looking for CDL Drivers to Deliver Trucks! Apply Online at www.qualitydriveaway.com or call 574-642-2023.
Drivers Wanted: Owner Ops & Company. Home daily. Excellent money & benefits. Great bonuses. ADOPTION Newer fleet. Call now for opportunities in your area! Happy couple wish to adopt – endless love, laughter 888-549-1882. PAM Transport. and opportunity. Call or text anytime. Expenses Paid. SAWMILLS Heather and Matt 732-397-3117.
CAREER TRAINING
Sawmills from only $4,397.00 – Make & Save Money with your own bandmill – Cut lumber any Airline Mechanic Training – Get FAA certification. dimension. In stock ready to ship! Free info/DVD: Approved for military benefits. Financial Aid if qualified. Job placement assistance. Call Aviation Institute www.NorwoodSawmills.com. 800-567-0404, Ext.300N. of Maintenance, 800-475-4102.
TV/INTERNET
FINANCE
Receiving payments from real estate you DISH TV $59.99 For 190 Channels $14.95 High sold? Get cash now! Call Steve: 888-870-2243. Speed Internet. Free Installation, Smart HD DVR Included, Free Voice Remote. Some restrictions apply. www.SteveCashesNotes.com. Call 877-625-4980.
For Sale
EVENT
Custom Cat Habitat
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Outdoor fun for your indoor cat. Call for details. 615-828-8832
WE BUY
TexSCAN Week of March 18, 2018
Providing you with news for Dripping Springs, Wimberley and surrounding communities
OIL, GAS, &
MINERAL RIGHTS
Both non-producing and producing
including Non-Participating Royalty Interest (NPRI) Provide us your desired price for an offer evaluation.
Texas Press Statewide Classified Network 251 Participating Texas Newspapers • Regional Ads Start At $250 • Email ads@texaspress.com NOTICE: While most advertisers are reputable, we cannot guarantee products or services advertised. We urge readers to use caution and when in doubt, contact the Texas Attorney General at 800-621-0508 or the Federal Trade Commission at 877-FTC-HELP. The FTC web site is www.ftc.gov/bizop.
Earn more with Quality! 30 YEARS OF SERVICE
Annual “Long Live Cowboys”
Special Female Replacement Sale
Looking for CDL A or B drivers to deliver new trucks all over the US and Canada.
Sat., March 24 400+ FEMALES @ NooN
Experience preferred. Must have DOT physical and be willing to keep logs. No DUIs in last 10 years, clean MVR.
CALL TODAY: 806.620.1422
LOBO MINERALS, LLC PO Box 1800 • Lubbock, TX 79408-1800
WANTED
Ingleside – Round Up Days, March 23-24, N.O. Simmons Park, Ingleside, TX. Rides, games, food, live FREON R12 WANTED: Certified buyer will PAY entertainment, $6 Admission. Presented by Ingleside CA$H for R12 cylinders or cases of cans. (312) 291Chamber of Commerce. 9169, www.refrigerantfinders.com.
Call Josh
Apply Online at www.qualitydriveaway.com
830-623-2855 • 1918 Hwy 80, Karnes City, TX
Service Directory LoboMineralsLLC@gmail.com
Air Conditioning
APC
Service • Repair • Installation
512-410-7739 www.APCServicePros.com TACLB015741E
Licensed and Insured
TECL 24139
DANIEL
STONE & LANDSCAPING SUPPLIES -We DeliverGRASS: St. Augustine, Buffalo, Bermuda, Tifway PATIO ROCK GRAVEL SAND
12015 Hwy 290 W Cedar Valley, Austin
Dirt Cheap
M-F 8-5 Sat. 9-3
Central Garage, LLC Complete Auto Repair
(512) 894-4114 or (512) 858-4252 1 20 Hwy 290 W Mon-Fri, 8-5:30 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 Danny Hubbard
Lawn Care WHO DOES YOUR LANDSCAPING?
Landscaping
CHOPPED ROCK DRYSTACK MULCH
Dirt
Automotive
Service Pros, LLC
Air Conditioning • Heating • Electrical
FLAGSTONE RIVER ROCK LOAM
512-288-8488
Offering competitive pricing and superior service in the Manchaca, Buda, and Kyle area since 2010
Taking care of your yard so you can play!
LANDSCAPING AND OUTDOOR CONSTRUCTION
Flower Beds • Fencing • Sprinkler Systems • Patios Gravel Driveways & Trails • Rock Gardens Garden Boxes • Build Sheds
Call Jesse Reyna at 512-788-2180 or email apa6207@sbcglobal.net
Signs & Banners
Shoe Repair QUALITY BOOT & SHOE REPAIR AS WELL AS PURSE AND LUGGAGE REPAIR
AustinShoeHospital.com
WORLD’S LARGEST SHOE REPAIR COMPANY 10 locations in Central Texas including: Highway 290 & Nutty Brown Road • 512-827-3398 Highway 290 West in Oak Hill • 512-288-6386 Bee Cave in Lakeway • 512-263-4630
or call 574-642-2023
www.karnescityauction.com
Loam • Topsoil • Sand • Gravel • Roadbase • Asphalt Millings • Granite • Compost Mix
Tractor Work Available
Specializing in Country Driveways
Rick-Rob Trucking 512- 858-7952 www.rick-rob.com
robinnds@aol.com
Fences & More
HTC Fence & More WOOD FENCES BUILT RIGHT Repairs, Gates, Post Replacement, Fully Insured. Mowing $45 for standard yard (mow, edge, cleanup) Free Estimates • Veteran Owned 830-556-7445
Texas Crossword Solution
Pool Service Over 10 years of experience Keith Miller, owner One Time & Weekly Cleanings Drain & Cleans Pressure Washing Full Service Repairs HIGH TIDE Pool Replastering POOL SERVICE FREE ESTIMATES HIGHTIDEPOOLSERVICE@YAHOO.COM HIGHTIDEPOOLSERVICE.COM
512-965-3465
Tree Service
Lees Trees 30+ years in the Hill Country
Firewood • Pruning • Removal • Chipping Planting • Cedar Posts • Bulk Mulch Free Assessments & Estimates • Insured
Marcus Lees Affordable Oak Wilt Treatment (512) 858-4018 by TTH Inc. TDA #270421 leestrees@vownet.net (512) 921-4661
Schedule ball moss treatment for March
See puzzle, page 4
Window Treatments Beautiful Blinds, Shades, Draperies & Shutters Custom window treatments at affordable prices!
Graber, Hunter Douglas, Norman & more. Low prices with lifetime guarantees and fast professional installation.
Call 512-847-8970
for free consultation & price quote.
www.MadeinTheShadeofwimberley.com
Page 6
News-Dispatch
Thursday, March 22, 2018
Traffic Connectivity: Residents fear connecting neighborhoods Continued from pg. 1
was reached when the Dripping Springs City Council approved the proposed connector for emergency access only, residents fear connecting neighborhoods could lead to an influx of traffic woes. The two neighborhoods, which are located west of U.S 290 going towards Austin, house more than 1,000 residents. Sunset Canyon North residents have the ability to access Bee Cave and County Road 185 through the neighborhood, but residents of Headwaters take Highway 290 to access these areas. The proposed connectivity would connect Headwaters and Sunset Canyon North, giving access to both neighborhoods without using Hwy. 290. During a March 13 Dripping Springs City Council meeting public hearing on the proposed project, Sunset Canyon North residents fear increased traffic and safety hazards will come with the new connection. However, Hays County Commissioner Pct. 4 Ray Whisenant said the connectivity is an opportunity to interconnect the city’s roadways and diverting traffic off of the major highways. “Our roads simply can’t handle the increased traffic that would come with this connectivity,” said Grant Tait, a resident of Sunset Canyon North. “We do not have sidewalks and proper road infrastructure. The commissioner has even told us that our roads are severely under developed.” Tait said the roads in his neighborhood are barely wide enough to accommodate two trucks passing each other, and the lack of sidewalks makes it a dangerous roadway for
“The children of this neighborhood play outside and our residents know that. As soon as we get people coming in and out of here that aren’t familiar with this area, there are potential risks with that.” –Grant Tait, a resident of Sunset Canyon North
people walking. “The children of this neighborhood play outside and our residents know that,” Tait said. “As soon as we get people coming in and out of here that aren’t familiar with this area, there are potential risks with that.” Ultimately, a compromise was crafted between the city, county and neighborhood residents. Dripping Springs city leaders approved the preliminary plat for Headwaters Phases 3, 4 and 5 with connectivity at Headwa-
ters and Sunset Canyon being emergency access only, at the request of the County. Hays County officials and the developer of the project are also planning to develop a roadway agreement for triggers to re-evaluate access at the intersection. But residents’ concerns also extend to talks of a future elementary school in the area and the road infrastructure that would come with it. “We aren’t against this connectivity,” Tait said.
“Our roads simply just can’t handle the traffic, and if this elementary
school gets approved, our roads will be destroyed with all the vehicles coming in and out of this area.” Ginger Faught, Dripping Springs deputy city administrator, said the city is committed to outlying potential connects through neighborhoods to alleviate traffic, with the goal of connection these neighborhoods
without having to travel along the major roadways. “The city and County wants this emergency access for now,” said Michelle Fischer, city administrator for the City of Dripping Springs. “We also want at some point that connection be open, but traffic studies will be conducted before we get there.”
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17-SDM-1265-ER Print Ad - Dripping Springs Dispatch.indd 1
11/9/17 1:54 PM