June 17, 2020 News-Dispatch by Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch

JUNE 17, 2020 JUNETEENTH

DREAM IT

Juneteenth/Black Lives Matter parade begins in Buda.

Luling man becomes a veterinarian despite struggle, rejection.

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News-Dispatch

75¢

Vol. 126 • No. 9

HaysNewsDispatch.com

Amazon to bring 100s of jobs to Buda

Serving Buda, Kyle and Northeast Hays County, TX

COVID-19 Testing

BY SAHAR CHMAIS The coronavirus pandemic has put millions of Americans out of work, and Hays County was no exception when the unemployment rate rose to 12.8 percent in April. Still, there may be a saving grace that will open hundreds of jobs in Buda. An Amazon shipping center plans to open outside of Buda’s city limits sometime later this year, and it is expected to bring hundreds of part-time and full-time jobs. Since the facility will be outside of the city limits, property taxes will be paid to the county and not the city of Buda. Wages start at $15 per

AMAZON IN BUDA, 11

Kyle mayor sets his sights on renaming Rebel Road BY ANITA MILLER The slow disassociation of the Hays ISD from the Confederacy has gone on for almost two decades, with the last major step taken in 2015 when “Dixie” was dropped as a fight song. In the wake of the murder of Houston native George Floyd beneath the knee of a Minneapolis police officer, there have been calls on social media for the district to go further, with some suggestion the “Rebel” be replaced as mascot.

REBEL ROAD RENAME, 9

Arrest made in Caldwell County double homicide BY ANITA MILLER

PHOTO BY ANITA MILLER

Free COVID-19 tests were performed on 701 people Sunday at Bohnam Pre-K in San Marcos. Similar events will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, June 17 at Simon Middle School in Kyle, on Thursday, June 18 at Uhland Elementary in Uhland and on Friday, June 19 at McCormick Middle School in Buda. The tests are for anyone five years old or older. See full story on page 5.

‘Dialogue for Peace and Progress’ Kyle hosts summit Friday at City Hall BY ANITA MILLER An open conversation between local law enforcement and the community will be the focus of a “Dialogue for Peace and Progress” summit at 7 p.m. Friday at Kyle City Hall. City Council member

Dex Ellison will moderate the event, said to be the first such discussion. “This as a springboard to education and understanding of what is ailing or might be lurking in the shadows to breed distrust and concerns in our community,” Ellison said. “Only then can

we identify what truly needs to be addressed or changed about our approach to building mutually safe, respectful and empathetic relationships between those that make, those that enforce and those living by laws passed.” Ellison said the first

step to identifying issues is education and he hopes that many in the community will see the panel as a starting point for future conversations and action. “We must first educate ourselves, so we

PEACE AND PROGRESS, 9

COVID-19 cases especially high in Kyle, mayor questions why BY SAHAR CHMAIS

Last week, the city of Kyle was experiencing the highest number of COVID-19 cases in Hays County, making up almost half of the county’s coronavirus illnesses. Mayor Travis Mitchell wants answers from the county as to why his city is being hit by this wave. “There are simple levels of analyses that can be performed and the county is saying they are not willing to provide this information,” Mitchell said. Mitchell met with county commissioners and epidemiologists on Monday to understand his city’s situation. This week, San Marcos has reached more active cases than Kyle; San Marcos at 215 active cases and Kyle hitting 131.This data does not change the fact that Hays County is not disclosing detailed

The county said in a press release that it would not be releasing any data “that identifies particular business types or industries” where there have been positive tests, citing potential harm to the businesses “struggling to get back on their feet.”

information on possible hot beds of these cases so that cities better understand where they need to focus prevention efforts, he said. An official statement from the Hays County Local Health Department states that they “will not be releasing any data that identifies particular business types or industries where individuals have tested positive for COVID-19. We understand the basis for questions regarding trends that point toward

RELIEF

Dripping Springs launches business relief program.

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potential clusters or hot spots. However, we do not believe providing this type of information will assist with policy decisions or messaging. In fact, it could be harmful to businesses that are already struggling and trying to get back on their feet.” It is not the local health department’s job to withhold this type of information, rather, they should send this information to the commissioners who have an overall say in what gets disclosed to city

leaders, Mitchell said. When it comes down to it, the city’s residents have questions and they look to the mayor for answers. “The residents hold leadership accountable,” Mitchell said, “and we need commissioners to be our advocates. If we are not able to get reliable information from the county, we cannot help residents understand what is happening.” Kyle is working from a semi-blind point of view. The city knows its ETJ of about 20,000 residents is host to many of the cases. City leaders are doing what they can by posting COVID-19 safety messages on social media and placing posters in the area’s commonly-spoken Spanish dialect and English. These messages are

COVID IN KYLE, 7

The News-Dispatch Barton Publications, Inc. The News-Dispatch (USPS 011-401) published weekly by Barton Publications, Inc., P.O. Box 339, Buda, TX 78610. Periodicals postage paid at Buda, TX 78610 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Barton Publications, Inc., P.O. Box 339, Buda, TX 78610. ISSN#1087-9323

The man accused of fatally shooting two Caldwell County teenagers June 9 later told his brothers he believed they were “aliens” disguised HAYNES as firefighters that he had to kill. Investigators found more than 50 9-millimeter shell casings near the bodies of 18-year-old Klayton Manning and his 16-year-old cousin Landin Robinson along Tenney Road in a rural area of the county. Manning was a volunteer with the Southeast Caldwell County Volunteer Fire Department and the teens were riding in a fire department ATV along Tenney Road when they were shot multiple times – both in the vehicle and as they were

DOUBLE HOMICIDE, 8

County gears up for July 14 runoffs BY ANITA MILLER Securing additional ballots ahead of an expected surge in mail-in voting for the July 14 primary runoff elections, as well as sanitizing supplies for in-person voting, were among anticipated uses of a federal CARES grant discussed by the commissioners court on June 10. Elections Administrator Jennifer Anderson explained to the court that the grant of more than $191,000, which commissioners voted to accept on June 2, will require a 20 percent county match, and can be used through the end of November for “anything above and beyond our normal budget” for an election. “Anything that can help us prepare,”

JULY 14 RUNOFFS, 5

NEWS

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Hays County COVID-19 Statistics • as of June 1 Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • June 17, 2020 Deaths

Confirmed cases

Hays County COVID-19 Confirmed cases cases continue to escalate 574

Active Cases

Currently hospitalized

Hays County COVID-19 Statistics • as of June 16

350350

120 120

300300

100 100

250250

80 80

200200

60 60 40 40

100100

20 20

50 50

Added cases Confirmed cases Active cases Total deaths

800

800 350

Total hospitalizations

766 666

Current hospitalizations

140 300 300

600 600

140 135

125127 121 402 117

400 400

109 103

9-Jun

5-Jun

3-Jun

8081

13-Jun

43 39 4243 3434349734 34 32 2434 2427 9 85 4 92 5 5 5 5 513 514 5 61214 65 6 6 65 610

1-Jun

30-May

26-May

4647 14 515 5

70 69

5-Jun

3-Jun

1-Jun

30-May

28-May

26-May

24-May

22-May

20-May

18-May

16-May

14-May

8-May

6-May

41 43 43

4 1

24-Apr

22-Apr

21-Apr

20-Apr

19-Apr

18-Apr

17-Apr

15-Apr

14-Apr

11-Apr

8-Apr

7-Apr

6-Apr

0 0 02 0

12 14 14 14 14 10 10 8 8 6 44 44 4 4 45 1 2 1 1 1 12 1 1 0 1 1 2 7

10-Apr

13-Apr

Total 9-Apr

5-Apr

4-Apr

3-Apr

2-Apr

1-Apr

31-Mar

28-May

24-May

12-May

22-May

20-May

10-May

16-May

4-May

18-May

14-May

2-May

8-May

12-May

10-May

30-Apr

28-Apr

26-Apr

6-May

2-May

30-Apr

4-May

24-Apr

6567

7273 6769 7274

168 164 161 160 152 144 155 129 99 82 109 115

68 43 65 65 67 32 3234343434 343439 61 262728 28 2828 29 25 24 24 27 24 23 59 59 20 20 20 20 20 18 1819 58 15 16 16 16 14 12 14 1415 12 12 12 9 9 9 518 515 510 512 54 51 717 81 614 424 421 425 35 35 432 5 41554 43 533 63 638 63 53 53 4 65 85 56 654 65 65 6510 50

Active 4

30-Mar

6867

32 2828 18 29 9 3 5 5 4 3

265

0 02 0 0

29-Mar

8228 2728 25 142612 8 12 63 6 3 6 3 77347735376

28-Mar

22-Apr

7881

12-Apr

20-Apr

27-Mar

26-Mar

25-Mar

24-Mar

02 02 02

18-Apr

16-Apr

14-Apr

12-Apr

8-Apr

6-Apr

10-Apr

24 16 18

13 9 11 23-Mar

Mountain City

7 01

22-Mar

Uhland Uhland

20-Mar

Maxwell

19-Mar

18-Mar

17-Mar

16-Mar

11 0

6 01

21-Mar

Woodcreek Woodcreek San Marcos Niederwald 5 Wimberley Wimberley 32 2

28-Apr

26-Apr

24-Apr

22-Apr

20-Apr

18-Apr

16-Apr

14-Apr

8-Apr

12-Apr

6-Apr

4-Apr

2-Apr

10-Apr

4-Apr

2-Apr

27-Mar

Wimberley

656777767273 6769 7274 23 24 20 20 20 20 16 12 9 18 7 19 5 3 5 7 820 4 2 4 2 5 6 1 912 2 35 3 4 4 4 4 1 1 1 1

7681 75 65 6568677069 54 58 5059 414343

Uhland

16 14 8 15 5 15 5 16 5 5 5 5 2 4 0 1 1 1 1 1

2832 34 16 161810 141414 14 14 8 12 8 7 7 101010 7 3 2 0 0 0 04 02 0 05 02 0 05 0 14 1 216 21 414 414 412 41 415 41 31-Mar

31-Mar

27-Mar

25-Mar

23-Mar

21-Mar

19-Mar

17-Mar

Woodcreek

25-Mar

23-Mar

1113 302 502 601 701 902 02 02 21-Mar

00 1 01

7881916867

7681 75 54 58 6550596568677069 34 41434316 182832 16 14 8 12 8 14 7 6 10 5 14 4 14 4 14 2 1 4 4 4 4 4 4 110 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 2 03 02 10 0 04 02 07 05 02 0 05 07 14 10

29-Mar

19-Mar

3 02 5 02 6 01 7 01 911 02 0213 02

15-Mar

0101

29-Mar

100 80 100

168 164 161 160 93 152 129144 109 115 89 80819297

230 210 203

306 230 210 203

7-Jun

200 200 150

17-Mar

100

11-Jun

200 200

15-Jun

250 120

147

9-Jun

400

26-Apr

400 160

7-Jun

1000 1000

>80 > 80 yrs yrs.

25-Apr

450

16-Apr

180

500

500 1200 1200

Phase 1 opening

200

0-9 10-19 yrs yrs yrs. 30-39 yrs yrs. yrsyrs 50-59 yrs 60-69 yrs >80 70-79 yrs 0-9 yrs yrs 10-19 yrs yrs. 20-2920-29 yrs 30-39 yrs 40-49 yrs40-49 50-59 60-69 yrs yrs10-19 10-19 20-29 yrs. 30-39 yrs. 40-49 yrs. 60-69yrs yrs. yrs. 0-9 0-9 yrs yrs. 20-29 yrs. 30-39 40-49 50-59 yrs. 50-59 60-69yrs. yrs. 70-79 70-79 yrs. >70-79 80yrs yrs.

Local George Floyd protests Phase 2 opening

600 0 0 00

15-Mar

begun to see a levelling. However, upwards of 12 states, including Texas, are reporting record seven-day averages, as reported in the Washington Post. Those states showing upward trends include Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Florida, Kentucky, New Mexico, North Carolina, Mississippi, Oregon, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Utah. Dr. Fauci was cautious about states opening up. What people need to know is that when they open, “you still have to practice a degree of caution and carefully go through the practice of normalizing,” he said. Even as businesses open and customers begin to shop, they should still wear a mask, have physical distancing, wash hands as often as possible can and avoid congregating in large numbers, Dr. Fauci said. “Be careful and do it prudently,” Dr. Fauci said, regarding opening up of the economy.

Male

13-Mar

Phase 1 – May 1 Phase II – May 29 Phase III – June 3 with restaurants allowed to open at 75% June 12. George Floyd protests began May 26

Female

150150

15-Mar

TEXAS PHASES OF OPENING

cases has increased. In addition, with the protests of the death of George Floyd beginning around May 26 and continuing, specialists expect to see an even higher increase in coming weeks. Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases since 1984, said on ABC recently that he was concerned about the spike that could occur following the protest and demonstrations, and also about the opening of businesses when the curve of the pandemic had not yet flattened. With reports that national guardsmen were infected at the protests, Fauci said he expected an increase in cases among demonstrators. Physical separation is still important, and with congregations with demonstrations, “that’s taking a risk,” he said. Regarding the flattening of the curve of new cases, some states, such as New York, has

766

Currently hospitalized

23-Apr

167 - May 1 203 - May 8 221 - May 15 270 - May 23 329 - May 29 398 - June 5 1093 - June 16

1,093

13-Mar

1 - March 13 6 - March 20 13 - March 26 47 - April 3 82 - April 10 121 - April 17 147 - April 23

306

Active Cases

140 140

14-Mar

Sometimes it’s good to be the last on the list, but Texas seems to be determined to move up when it comes to coronavirus cases. And Hays County is helping to add to the figures, as its number of cases of COVID-19 continue to increase. In Hays County, the first coronavirus case was reported March 13. Weekly since then, confirmed cases and the number of new cases have increased in an upward curve: According to a recent WalletHub study, Texas is one of the states with an upward trend in COVID-19 cases, ranking 16th in the nation in death rate per thousand and 24th in estimated transmission number (the average number of people to whom an infected person will transmit COVID-19). According to the New York Times, which has been maintaining a database of every state and county in the nation regarding COVID-19, as of June 15, Texas has a total of 91,7271 cases, with 2,018 deaths. There was a leveling out of cases toward the end of May, but since that time, the number of Texas cases has moved upwards. Consider that Texas Governor Greg Abbott started phasing in a gradual opening of restaurants, retail stores and bars, with many doing business in a more open style by the end of May, and it’s not hard to see why the number of

TIMELINE OF CONFIRMED HAYS COUNTY CORONAVIRUS CASES

13-Mar

BY CYNDY SLOVAK-BARTON

Deaths

San Marcos San Marcos

Kyle

Niederwald Niederwald

Hays

Mountain City Maxwell

Drip. Springs

Maxwell Mountain City

County’s business relief package still finding its legs BY ANITA MILLER A Hays County program to provide economic relief to small businesses whose futures are in jeopardy due to the coronavirus pandemic is not yet up and running. Because the commissioners court does not meet on June 16, it’s unlikely to be much closer by the end of this month. The structure of the Economic Cash Assistance Program (ECAP) was approved by the court June 2, designed as a partnership between the county and municipalities, each of which would be able to appoint board members. Each governmental entity would be required to help fund the effort in exchange for input on who winds up on the Awards Committee.

The ECAP provides for grants of up to $10,000 to qualifying businesses on a first-come, first-served basis. Qualifying businesses are those that employ 10 or fewer employees and grants will be awarded on the basis of $1,000 per employee. But on June 9, General Counsel Mark Kennedy told commissioners that two municipalities – San Marcos and Wimberley – have yet to respond to the county’s outreach, being conducted at least in part by Jason Giulietti, president of the Greater San Marcos Partnership (GSMP). It also appears that not all municipalities are eager to put up cash. “I think Buda is interested,” Kennedy told the court, “in appointing a repre-

sentative for Buda.” He noted that Buda already has an incentive program that has already delivered to many small businesses. “They are inquiring how much they need to contribute,” Kennedy said. Although there’s not stated minimum contribution, Kennedy said since Hays County is putting in $500,000, “anything less than $25,000 (is) not even a gesture.” The ECAP provides for

RELIEF PACKAGE, 5

Dripping Springs launches business relief program STAFF REPORT

Businesses in Dripping Springs can now apply for relief from the impact of COVID-19. The city council adopted the program June 10 and applications are available on the city’s website. The COVID-19 Disaster Relief Program for Businesses addresses fees and permits. Specifically: • The city will waive one month of wastewater fees for commercial properties. Businesses must apply by June 26. • A one-time, 25 percent discount will be given on permit or inspection

renewals, including food establishment permits, child/adult care, church and school establishment inspections and alcohol beverage permits. (Renewals only for existing businesses and must be requested at time of renewal.) • Temporary sign permit fees are waived until Sept. 30. The city will also allow one additional temporary sign through Sept. 30 on all properties in Dripping Springs. The program will be in effect for 60 days from June 10, and is not retro-

active. “Businesses across the country, including many local businesses in Dripping Springs, are facing tough times,” because of the coronavirus, Mayor Bill Foulds Jr. said. “While businesses are beginning to open, they are still facing an uphill financial road ahead. We want to do anything we can to support and provide relief for our local businesses that have been financially affected during this pandemic.” Applications and more information are available at cityofdrippingsprings. com and 512-858-4725.

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Opinion

QUOTE OF THE WEEK “It’s about whether or not we still find it acceptable to project ‘Rebel Pride’ to those who don’t live here.” –Travis Mitchell, Kyle Mayor. Story on page 1.

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • June 17, 2020

Page 3

What’s in a name, Rebels? It’s time to change W

aybe I should have said something every time I saw the stars and bars flapping behind the two-ton pickup trucks my friends drove during my time at Hays High. Perhaps that might have been the right time to speak up and express my concern with an image whose history was interwoven by hate, malice and cruelty. In a perfect world, I would have approached them and tried to make them understand that flag symbolized not only a lost cause, but treason of the highest order against our land. But the truth is none of that happened. There was no amazing Hollywood-style outburst or protest from me fighting to diminish support for something that continues to be a rallying cry for racists, bigots and white supremacists. No, the sad truth is that I just didn’t understand. I just didn’t get it. I fell into the “pride, not prejudice” trap some of us were fed to believe, and worse, accepted. That will forever bring me great shame. It’s that shame that drives me, a 2005 Hays High graduate, to advocate for Hays CISD to begin the process of looking at alternative mascots for the district’s first high school campus. Understandably, such a move will generate much consternation and frustration among those who feel losing the Rebel name will forever change the school. Many will also claim the move could “whitewash” history (It won’t. Read a history textbook if you’re so inclined to find references to the Confederacy.) But is that a bad thing? Because for decades, the only fact people knew of the Hays Rebels was how the school embraced symbols synonymous with slavery and oppression, primarily toward those in the black community. Yes, in recent years we’ve seen the removal of the flag as a symbol, “Dixie” as the fight song

From the Sidelines by Moses Leos III

and other elements that were associated with the Confederacy. Hays CISD has also done its best to dissociate the Rebel mascot from its Confederate connections by inferring the word itself has many different meanings. And, to an extent, that is true. Our country was founded by rebels who stood up to Great Britain and created our nation. Some of our world’s most enduring fictional characters, ranging from Star Wars to the Avengers, are themselves rebels in a way. However, Hays High’s Rebel mascot is none of those things. Because the Hays Rebels will always be those Hays Rebels. The “south shall rise again” Rebels. The same Hays Rebels whose fan base once countered a black San Marcos city leader’s call for the school to remove the stars and bars by waving enough of them around to mirror a Klan rally during a football game. Who are we as a society to urge our community to rally behind a high school mascot that many still associate with hate, while also pushing for our children to be tolerant and accepting of others? As Hays CISD grows and becomes more diverse, the district’s sordid symbols of the past will continue to catch up to it. Why not start fresh? Why not begin a new chapter in our district’s timeline? If you’re still unable to shake the Rebel name, if you’re not sold that it should be replaced, perhaps you should reread last week’s story on the amount of racism Hays High alumnus Rashaad O’Neal had to endure during his high school years. No one should ever have to go through that again. Because it’s time, Hays CISD. It’s time to change.

Barton Publications, Inc. News tips: news@haysfreepress.com Opinions: csb@haysfreepress.com 113 W. Center St., Kyle, TX 78640 www.haysfreepress.com 512-268-7862 Publisher Cyndy Slovak-Barton News Editor Anita Miller Sports Editor Moses Leos III Reporters Megan Wehring, Sahar Chmais, Chase Rogers Columnists Bartee Haile, Pauline Tom, Clint Younts Proofreaders Jane Kirkham

NEWS TIPS

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

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CORRECTIONS

hen I began teaching at Hays High School in 2008, the Confederate flag had just recently been removed from the school. It would not be officially banned from the school until 2012, and the fight song would not be changed until 2016. Of the flag, the song, and the mascot, only the mascot remains, and its presence is getting harder to defend with each passing day. Generally the defenders of the name Rebel use one of three justifications. “It’s tradition.” The best traditions honor those who partake in them. Ceremonies that cease to have meaning, or those that honor one group while demeaning another, are left behind. In 1968, the year that Martin Luther King was assassinated and the country was gripped by civil strife, Hays adopted Dixie, the Confederate flag, and the Rebel mascot to represent us. Many traditions from that era are gone now. For example, we have moved on from Slave Day, a tradition in Hays HS where students were sold at auction, and no one mourns its passing. Tradition alone is not reason enough to cling to the

is an argument that is strongest in the heart of Guest Kyle/Buda, and weakens as we leave our city’s Column walls. Whether our stuby Billy Norton dents go to Texas State or Harvard or the Army, they return with new eyes. “I Rebel mascot. can’t believe we used to “Our mascot isn’t really play Dixie,” they say. “I a Rebel.” In recent years, can’t believe we waved Hays has changed the that flag. I can’t believe uniform of our sideline we marched up and down mascot to resemble a in our Rebel uniforms ranger, not a Confederate and never thought about soldier. Why? The change what it meant.” Symbols in uniform is an acknowl- have meaning. There is edgement that a Confed- a reason NASCAR and erate soldier is no longer the Marines are both resocially acceptable. But, moving the Confederate a simple costume change flag from their apparel does not change the fact and their stadiums – they that the Hays Rebels are have an evolving awarenamed for Confederate ness that the symbols soldiers. We do not show they once embraced are up to basketball games not acceptable. The Maand tell the opposing rines are not suddenly team, “Yes, we’re the Reb- snowflakes. They, like so els, but we’re not those many Americans, are havrebels. We’re just sort of ing to answer legitimate generic rebels, like James questions about how they Dean or Luke Skywalker.” show the world their valWe can’t say that with ues. They are choosing to a straight face, because be more inclusive, more the history of our school aware of their responsimeans that we are rebels bilities to all Americans. like Robert E. Lee or NaBy embracing the name than Bedford Forest. Until Rebels, by marching into we change the name, we other schools with “Rebare those Rebels. els” on our uniforms, and “There’s nothing wrong by telling our students with Rebels. The name and ourselves that there doesn’t bother me or anyis nothing problematic body I know, no matter about this particular what color they are.” This mascot, we are making a

choice. We are choosing to ignore a brutal, unjust part of American history and culture, and in doing so we both deny and embrace institutional racism. Some will say now is not the time to change. But if not now, when? Do we wait until we are the last school in America to change our mascot? Do we wait until our neighbors and friends kneel in protest just to get our attention? Do we wait till a murder occurs in our town, a murder like the murders of Ahmaud Arbery or George Floyd, before we decide that now is the time to act? The nickname Rebel is growing harder and harder to justify. We have already shed the Confederate flag, and we have shed Dixie. In doing so we have made our community a bit more welcoming. Institutional racism hasn’t evaporated, but our community has demonstrated that we know our actions matter, that we do care, and that we are willing to have honest discussions about who we are and who we want to be. Unless we have more compelling reasons to keep the name Rebel, now is the time to let it go.

Wait, I can’t watch that?

don’t know if it’s a side effect of the coronavirus or maybe from eating too much junk food during the quarantine, but I think a whole mess of folks have lost their ever-loving mind. I see stuff the major news networks are trying to cram down our throats, and I read absolutely insane hogwash on social media. I am convinced an increasingly large group of people in the great country of ours have simply gone cuckoo for Cocoa Puffs. I could toss in my 2-cents worth on all the social unrest stemming from actions from a few bad apples in the police force, but I won’t. I’m not going to voice my opinion on police brutality, racial inequality or much else because, no matter what I say, someone with twisted Jockey shorts and insufficient gray matter will go ballistic and throw an illiterate conniption on social media. I might occasionally get riled up over some subject and voice my opinion, but I try to retain my civility and southern charm. But lately, after reading so many reports of

Crow’s Nest by Clint Younts

utter insanity in the world of entertainment, music and sports, I need to vent and relieve some pressure. So, bear with me, and if you don’t mind, pull my finger. First of all, what in tarnation are the folks at HBO thinking by removing “Gone With the Wind” from their movie selection? This is an American classic, a love story set during the Civil War. Sure, there are characters in the fictional story that might offend some folks, but, dang, it’s a movie about life on a southern plantation. Are all movies set in the Civil War era gonna get shelved because it might offend some folks? Now, since we are no longer allowed to watch Clark Gable, Vivian Leigh and Hattie McDaniel, can l watch cartoons? What? Yosemite Sam can’t carry his six-shooters any more because it depicts violence.

He’s a dadgum cartoon character. Even my seven-year old granddaughter knows Yosemite Sam isn’t real. And correct me if I am wrong, I don’t believe he ever killed anyone with those guns? I know Elmer Fudd spent years trying to shoot that silly rabbit, but he always went home hungry. Did anyone take away his gun? And Sylvester never gobbled up Tweety, leaving entrails and feathers on that old lady’s doorstep like our cat used to do. I’m betting the folks at Warner Bros. Studios will soon require Wile E. Coyote to stop ordering stuff from Acme and resort to using live traps to catch that roadrunner. And will Foghorn Leghorn get canned because of his southern accent? If you ask me, it’s the studio executives who are looney and not the toons. So,if I can’t watch Bugs and Friends, maybe I’ll go visit my grandchildren and watch Paw Patrol with them. Hey, where’s Chase, the police pup? What? He’s been euthanized because he might be a bad cop? He’s a cartoon animal, for

Pete’s sake. He’s not Dirty Harry. Well, if I can’t watch TV, I will sit on my deck and listen to country music. Let’s see if Lady Antebellum has any new songs. What? The band is now called Lady A because “antebellum” refers to an era when there was slavery. I can’t even listen to music without offending someone. Speaking of music, at the University of Texas, some spoiled athletes wearing ill-fitted jockstraps want the school to drop Eyes of Texas as the school song because, get this, it was performed in a minstrel show back in 1903. Hey, if y’all don’t want free college education and play for the Longhorns, I bet you can go elsewhere and gripe on some other campus. I don’t hear hillbillies complaining about Rocky Top. Okay, I’m done venting for now. Phew, I feel much better. I think I will fix myself a mint julep, plop down on my recliner and watch Outlaw Josey Wales. And if that offends somebody, well that’s just too bad.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

It’s time to do away with the mascot Ms. Orozco, Mr. McManus, Ms. Patrea, Mr. Vela, Mr. Tenorio,Dr. Sanchez, and Ms. Keller, I am emailing to ask that you aggressively take action towards changing the Hays High nickname

Any erroneous reflection upon the character, standing or reputation of any person, firm or corporation which may appear in the pages of the Hays Free Press will be corrected upon being brought to the attention of the publisher.

DEADLINES

of “Rebels” to something else. As you know, due to their historical representation of prejudice, suppression and injustice against African Americans the former song, mascot and flag associated with

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

this adopted nickname have been changed, but that was not enough. It is now time to change the nickname as well. As a tax paying voter, who is a resident of Kyle, I ask that you take up the charge

LETTERS GUIDELINES

and teach our students to stand up for what is right. It will have a positive affect on our community which is important, even though it may be tough and/or unpopular. Jerod Bledsoe

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.

NEWS

Page 4

Probe continuing into fatal May 15 house fire in Buda BY ANITA MILLER

have been mum, except to say that a person found Dozens of volunteer unresponsive inside the firefighters responded home was identified as just past dawn on May 15 48-year-old Janie Zapata. to a house fire in the 400 Buda Fire Chief Clay block of Overlook Moun- Huckaby told the Hays tain West in Eliot Ranch Free Press that Zapata west of Buda. Arriving fire was rushed to a nearby crews found the home hospital where she was fully engulfed with flames pronounced dead. and smoke visible from Pct. 2 Justice of the all sides and the roof, ac- Peace Beth Smith said cording to a press release this week that she has issued by the county that nothing new in the case morning. including the results of Since then, officials an autopsy.

“Mayor Haehn has done an outstanding job representing Buda as mayor and a councilmember in every way possible.” –Kenneth Williams, Buda City Manager

I respect his decision to focus on his family. I have enjoyed his strong and steady leadership which certainly makes any city manager’s job of collaborating with the city council easier.” “After looking back, I have been in service to the people of this nation, state and city in various capacities for almost my entire adult life,” Haehn said. Haehn joined the United States Marine Corps after high school in 1978 and retired from active duty in 1999 after over 21 years of service. Once retired, he attended the University of Texas where he earned a Bachelor of

Happy Father’s Day!

“I haven’t gotten any updates at all,” Smith said on June 15. “It’s still pending investigation as far as I know. No final autopsy yet.” When the investigation was launched, Hays County Fire Marshal Scott Raven was at the heart of the probe; but, according to Lt. Dennis Gutierrez of the Hays County Sherrif’s Department, Raven is no longer in the position. He did not elaborate.

Buda Mayor George Haehn will not seek re-election After almost a decade of serving Buda, Mayor George Haehn has announced that he will not seek re-election in November. “After serving eight years, and trying my best to help the people of Buda, it is time that I end that service due to family and other commitments. Therefore, I will not be seeking re-election in November,” he said. Haehn was voted into office as a Buda Council member in November 2012. He sought re-election in 2015 and then ran for mayor in 2017. “Mayor Haehn has done an outstanding job representing Buda as mayor and a councilmember in every way possible,” City Manager Kenneth Williams said. “I am thankful for his dedication and heartfelt service to the citizens of Buda. While I regret to see that Mayor Haehn is not seeking re-election,

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • June 17, 2020

Arts in History. Haehn then became a Social Studies teacher for 7 years. “I cannot thank the members of city council who have helped me, from guiding me through the first term as a councilmember to today,” Haehn said. “All of these men and women serve selflessly and I will always believe they were one of the key elements of any success I have enjoyed. It has been an honor and a privilege to have served on the city council and as mayor of Buda. I will always remember this time of my life and the kind people of this city.”

From Senator Judith Zaffirini And her darling grandsons, Asher and George! Senator Judith Zaffirini embraces two of her favorite blessings, her grandsons, Asher Maxwell (3 years) and George William (11 months). What she wishes for them is what she works for and wishes for all children. They are the sons of her equally beloved son, Carlos Jr., and Audrey. She and Carlos Sr. relish their roles as “Ma Z” and “Pa Z.” Their prayer is that the Lord will continue to bless you and your loved ones and that you will enjoy a loving and memorable Happy Father’s Day!

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Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • June 17, 2020

Page 5

Juneteenth/Black Lives Matter parade in Buda STAFF REPORT

ticipants can use the area to decorate vehicles prior to the start of the parade at approximately 6 p.m. Rich in black history because of the Antioch Colony, Buda “is fortunate to have a police department that is amazing and respects all citizens and believes in de-escalation over force,” said Buda resident Amy Grant, who owns the Therapy Center of Buda and is the mother of a biracial child.

Unusual times call for unusual measures, and the COVID-19 pandemic certainly qualifies as unusual. That’s not stopping Buda-area residents, who are putting together a Juneteenth/Black Lives Matter Car Parade for Friday, June 19. Staging will start at 5:30 p.m. on Coldwater Hollow in front of Whispering Hollow Park. Par-

“This parade will celebrate Juneteenth and the descendants of the Antioch Colony as well as display solidarity with the black community and show the nation that racism has no place in Buda.” –Amy Grant, Buda resident and owner of Therapy Center of Buda

“I appreciate the recent statements of the Buda Police Department and

city manager condemning racism and pledging to do better for our black

community,” Grant said, adding that the parade will also be a “tribute” to descendants of the Antioch Colony, many of whom will be participating. Invited guests include the Buda Fire and Police departments, County Judge Ruben Becerra and family, State Rep. Erin Zwiener and family, Ray (Buda city council member) and Sandra Bryant, Kenneth Williams (Buda

City Manager” and family) and other community leaders. “This parade will celebrate Juneteenth and the descendants of the Antioch Colony as well as display solidarity with the black community and show the nation that racism has no place in Buda,” Grant said, adding that those who participate will be asked to wear masks and participate in social distancing.

Woodcreek mayor faces backlash over Black Lives Matter comments BY CHASE ROGERS

Floyd, a black man who was killed by Minneapolis A recent Facebook post police on Memorial Day. by the mayor of Wood“I’m not a racist,” Maycreek saying the Black or Gloria Whitehead said Lives Matter movement in the now-deleted series is a “threat to our lives” of posts to her personal sparked protests and con- Facebook, also stating demnation from other the movement is “not elected officials in Hays about Black Lives, what County. have they ever done but Her post was referring denounce AMERICA.” to demonstrations followWhitehead continued ing the death of George in the posts to tie Black

Lives Matter to socialism, communism and Marxism as well as the Black Panthers and the Weather Underground. In a special-called meeting June 10, more than a dozen protesters calling for Whitehead’s resignation were stationed outside of the city council’s meeting. Wimberley Democrats and Wimberley Indivisi-

ble had helped organize the protest, according to reporting by the Austin American-Statesman. The Wimberley Democrats release a statement Saturday, further calling for Whitehead’s resignation. “She has to go,” the post reads. “A public servant cannot openly be a bigot. … The mayor should resign. I do not

believe that she can run Woodcreek with her personal biases.” Elected officials in Hays County have come out to decry the posts, including State Rep. Erin Zwiener. “As a fellow elected official, I am disappointed to see this,” Zwiener said. “Black lives matter, full stop, and every single person in power should

be stepping up to make sure they’re treated as such.” Zwiener offered to sit down with Whitehead and discuss the situation and how her rhetoric is harmful to the Black community. Whitehead became the mayor of Woodcreek in 2019 in an uncontested race and her term is set to expire in November 2021.

COVID-19 cases explode as county cracks down on information release PATAKI

EKRUT

COX

Three elected to PEC Board of Directors Emily Pataki was re-elected and Mark Ekrut and Travis Cox were elected to the board of directors of the Pedernales Electric Coop. Pataki will continue to represent District 2, while Ekrut will represent District 3 and Cox will represent District 4. Pataki has served the coop since 2014; she and Ekrut will serve threeyear terms; since Cox was elected to fill a vacancy, he will serve for two

years. There were a total of 17,570 votes cast across all districts. Election results were administrated by Survey & Ballot systems. PEC will hold its annual meeting on June 19 but for health and safety concerns it will closed to member and public attendance. Members are encouraged to check pec. coop/annual/meeting to watch a video recording of the meeting.

BY ANITA MILLER The number of COVID-19 cases is exploding in Hays County along with the number of people willing to wait for hours in order to be tested for the virus. And only weeks after being allowed by Gov. Greg Abbott to open in increments, scores of businesses are closing down in the wake of employees testing positive. Though not mandated to do so, many of those businesses have gone public about their situation and social media is abuzz with theories about it all. Some businesses have even done their own “contact tracing,” letting recent patrons know of positive COVID-19 tests.

State Rep. Erin Zwiener said the COVID-19 turnout numbers on Sunday demonstrate the urgent need for a permanent, drive-up, no appointment needed site. All that sets the stage for more public information, not less, according to State Rep. Erin Zwiener. In an open letter to the Hays County commissioners court and the county’s local health department last week, Zwiener called for them to work on testing, contact tracing, “public-facing” communications and transparency. Zwiener was on the scene Sunday in San Marcos, when 701 people were tested – some after waiting for hours – in

what was the first opportunity since the pandemic hit for people to get a test without having symptoms or a doctor’s referral. While she believes additional open, free testing also scheduled by the Texas Department of Emergency Management

COVID INFORMATION, 13

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July 14 Runoffs Continued from pg. 1

she said, mentioning items like sanitizers, masks, gloves, brochures and messaging necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic. When asked about the possibility of drivethrough voting, Anderson pointed out that the county already has curbside voting that allows someone to vote without actually entering the polling place, but noted that is subject to weather conditions that would be heightened during a summer election, especially humidity. “Drive-through is something we’ve talked about, having maybe one or two throughout the county,” Anderson said, though details

haven’t been finalized. She said Travis County encountered the humidity challenge when exploring drive-through testing for the July runoff. “The elements” impact both the ballots themselves as well as scanners, she said. However, she concluded, it’s “certainly something I’m willing to explore but would need a little more time.” Pct. 1 Commissioner Debbie Gonzales Ingalsbe noted that $30,000 of the grant would be used for postage and wondered whether that would handle the increased mail-in voting. She also questioned whether there would be adequate personal protective equipment (PPE) for election

workers. “I think we’re set for July,” Anderson said, adding that come November additional PPE may be required. Pct. 4 Commissioner Walt Smith pitched the idea of temporary buildings used as polling places, some located in the parking lots of churches and other facilities that have been used as polling places in the past but are now reticent to allow it because of the coronavirus. “We could locate them in population dense areas where we know there is a need for voting,” Smith said. “Temporary buildings we can set up completely contained. We would have the option to

used to acquire real property, benefits for terminated employees, repayment of a PPP or EIDL loan or personal expenses. The board that will administer the grants has yet to be named. According to what the court approved June 2, it would be made up of nine people, including: • A county-appointed representative of the underserved community organization • A county-appointed active or retired Certified Public Accountant with its principal place of business in Hays County • A representative of the Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area

• A representative of Texas State University (e.g. Small Business Development Center, McCoy School of Business, other) • A representative residing within San Marcos or the city’s ETJ • A representative residing within Kyle or the city’s ETJ • A representative residing within Buda or the city’s ETJ • A representative residing within Dripping Springs or the city’s ETJ • A representative residing within Wimberley or the city’s ETJ If the city is a donor, its city council will select the representative. If not, the county will appoint one.

control access, cleanliness, all the things we are concerned about. It could be very beneficial.” He went on to say that he would be happy to explore grant funding to help the county acquire the temporary buildings. The last day to register to vote in the July 14 runoff election was Monday, June 15. Early voting runs June 29 through July 10 and applications to vote by mail must be received by July 2.

Relief Package Continued from pg. 2

grants of up to $10,000 to qualifying businesses on a first-come, firstserved basis. Qualifying businesses are those that employ 10 or fewer employees and grants will be awarded on the basis of $1,000 per employee. Sole proprietors who have no employees may be eligible for a grant of $1,000, Employees earning up to $98,914.50 annually are considered qualifying employees so long as they do not have an ownership interest in the business greater than 10 percent. The grant can be used for paying rent and mortgage, buying inventory, supplies, fixtures, equipment, maintenance and payroll. They cannot be

Thelma is a female, 2-1/2-year-old, Spaniel mix. When she first arrived at PAWS, she was absolutely terrified of everything. After spending a few weeks with us, she is a completely different dog. She loves going for walks and will now run right up to her people friends. Thelma would do so well in a calm home without small children or cats.

Mickey is a male, 2-1/2-year-old, Shorthair Blue Tabby. He’s cool, calm, and collected with a sense of humility about him that makes him so loveable. Mickey very much enjoys the company of people and will gladly spend as much time with you as you will allow. He also makes for an excellent companion to lonely felines and dogs alike!

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Page 6

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • June 17, 2020

Hays alumna graduates Life of children’s champion inspired from Naval Academy ‘Blossoms in the Dust’ T STAFF REPORT

comparatively modest budget. Greer Garson was nominated a second time for Best Actress. And Edna Gladney, who never let all that attention go to her head, and her life’s work became known to millions. (Interested in reading more about Edna Gladney? I recommend Texas Adoption Activist by Sherrie S. McLeRoy published in 2014.) Order any of Bartee’s five books (see list on barteehaile.com) at special price of $18.50 tax and shipping included. Mail check to Bartee Haile, P.O. Box 130011, Spring, TX 77393. And hurry! This offer good only for limited time.

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Base in New London, Connecticut. She’s following a family tradition and maybe, starting one of her own, according to her grandfather, who served in the Navy from 1957 to 1961 before a stint in the U.S. Coast Guard. A grandson of Jim Hough also served in the Navy but is out now; Gracie’s father serves in the Army and is expecting a transfer to Fort Hood in Killeen before deployment to Kuwait. The fact that Gracie is to be married to a submariner might also figure into her thinking, her grandfather says. “We’re just real proud of her,” he said. “Whatever she does, she does well.” That includes her hobbies of playing trumpet, hiking and camping.

Sudoku puzzle courtesy of www.4puz.com

he producer of “Blossoms In The Texas Dust” flew to Fort Worth on June 19, 1941 History to keep MGM’s promise by Bartee Haile to a woman with a heart as big as Texas. Ralph Wheelwright, a and vote – at a time. Her screenwriter and pubpersistence paid off in licist for Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, and his wife 1936, a year after losing the love of her life, with traveled the country looking for just the right the passage of a law that adoption agency and just prohibited the branding the right baby. Their long at birth of any innocent baby brought into the search finally brought world by an them to Edna unmarried Gladney and mother. the Texas ChilRalph dren’s Home Wheelwright and Aid Socidid not need ety in 1939. to resort to the The happy usual begging couple caught and pleading the train back to sell Louis to California B. Mayer on with an infant Edna’s inspirthey named ing story. All Phinie Louise it took was a after her new Edna Gladney single surprismother and photo courtesy of an idea for the Gladney Center for ingly short meeting for perfect folAdoption the studio boss low-up to Boys to green light Town, the heartwarming the project. biography that made a Wheelwright quickly ton of money for the stushared the wonderful dio and earned Spencer news in one of his many Tracey the 1938 Oscar letters to the widow back for Best Actor. As soon in Texas. She was thrilled as he finished reading the newspaper clippings beyond words especially by the amount of monEdna had given him as ey MGM was prepared a going-away present, to pay for the rights to Wheelwright knew he put her life on the big had exactly the kind of screen. Five thousand story his boss Louis B. dollars was a huge sum Mayer wanted. during the Depression, Edna Browning Jones equivalent to $85,000 in was 18 years old when today’s dollars. she left her home in The casting of the Milwaukee, Wisconsin to co-stars was a critilive with better-off relacal decision certain to tives in Fort Worth. Her have a major impact aunt was active in the local women’s clubs and on ticket sales. Mayer picked Greer Garson, impressed upon her the the redhaired beauty he importance of helping personally discovered the less fortunate. on the London stage, In 1906 Edna eloped to play Edna. She had with traveling salesman demonstrated her star Sam Gladney after a love-at-first-sight court- potential by turning in ship. The newlyweds set- an Academy Award nominated performance in tled in Sherman, where the groom bought a flour her movie debut just two years earlier. company and the bride Canadian actor/dancjoined the Civic League. A routine inspection of er Walter Pidgeon was the Grayson County Poor no one’s first choice for Farm opened Edna’s eyes the role of Sam Gladney, but MGM could to the plight of abandoned children and mis- not have done better. treated cast-offs like the The on-stage chemistry of Garson and Pidgeon mentally ill and handimade them such a favorcapped. She overcame ite couple of moviegoers a host of bureaucratic that the pairing would obstacles that made it possible to transfer most be repeated seven more times. of the children to the True to its word, Texas Children’s Home MGM arranged a private and Aid Society in Fort preview of “Blossoms In Worth operated by Rev. I.Z.T. Morris. In addition, The Dust” at the Majestic Theater in Dallas for she opened a nursery Edna and a small party that provided free day of close friends on the care to poor working eve of the general release women in Sherman, the on July 25, 1941. Then, as first of its kind in Texas. at all subsequent showWhen Sam’s business went under in 1924, they ings around the country, there was not a dry eye moved to Cow Town where he built a new mill in the house. Blossoms was a hit that manufactured the with public and critics popular Gladiola brand alike. MGM turned a of flour. In the meanhandsome profit on its time, Edna immersed herself in every facet of Rev. Morris’ Home. After shouldering more and more responsibility for the day-today operation, she was ENTERTAINMENT put in charge with the 3200 Kyle Crossing title of “superintendent.” Under her direction, the (512) 523 9012 Home began to expand Experience it in its services to include ENHANCED VIEWING living quarters for lateEXPERIENCE term expectant mothers and pre-natal doctor’s For all showtimes and care. listings, please check our In spite of her website or call showline! heavy workload, Edna launched an uphill campaign for the removal of the stigmatizing word “illegitimate” from birth 1180 Thorpe Lane certificates issued in Tex(512) 210 8600 Cinema Eatery & Social Haus as. Since she was herself born “out of wedlock” by an unwed teenager, this issue had a deeply personal meaning. Spending nearly as 1250 WONDER WORLD DR. much time in Austin as (512) 805 8005 Fort Worth, Edna lobbied the state legislature EVO-ENTERTAINMENT.COM changing one mind – Films. Lanes. Games.

member of the Drum & Bugle Corp and, during When women her junior and senior were first allowed to year, served as drum serve on U.S. attack major. She finished her submarines in 2013, last senior semester Buda resident Gracie as the Drum & Bugle Hough was still Corp Company in high school. Commander. But Hough, The daughter who graduated of Russell and from Hays High Terry Hough, School three she had also years later, will been drum be an active major for the submariner band during soon enough. her high school Hough went career. HOUGH through the Always a motions of trailblazer, she graduating from the leaves the Academy U.S. Naval Academy with a Bachelor of Anapolis May 11, said Science degree in her grandfather Jim Political Science and Hough with more than a commission as a a touch of pride. Even U.S. Navy Ensign. now, he said, “There Next up, she will be are not many female attending the Naval submariners, but she Nuclear Power School was selected.” in Goose Creek, South While at the Carolina and then academy, she was a the Naval Submarine

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Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • June 17, 2020

Page 7

OBITUARIES COOPER

HEWITT

Keith Scott Cooper, a longtime resident of Hays County, died peacefully May 16, 2020. Keith, born on Aug. 3, 1964, was the only child to loving parents Darrell and Dianne Cooper. Keith was a much cherished husband to the love of his life Danielle Cooper and a loving stepfather to Ashleigh and Jamie. He was also a much loved grandson, nephew, cousin, son-in-law and a friend to many. He was a longtime and dedicated member and officer of the Buda Lions Club and a lifetime member of The Capitol Rod and Gun Club. He attended Buda United Methodist Church for many years and was a loved and respected member of the church community, always willing to lend a hand with much enthusiasm. Keith was also a passionate Texas Longhorns fan all his life. He attended Dripping Springs High School and developed lifelong friendships with students and teachers alike. He was loved by all who knew him including his wife's family in Australia. Keith's loved ones find solace that he is now rejoicing in Heaven with our Father as he watches over us. Services to be held at a later date.

Halie Ann Hewitt, an outgoing, loving daughter, sister, friend and devoted girlfriend, died unexpectedly while out with friends on June 5, 2020 in Austin at the tender age of 24. Halie was born to Julie Prussman and Stanley Hewitt in Sterling, Colorado on May 17, 1996. She was an only child. At the age of four, she moved to Buda, where she was raised as a daughter with her cousin Zoe Olvera by her aunt and uncle, Sandi and Del Ballinger. Halie was a sweet girl who cared for everyone. She had a huge, genuine personality which always radiated positive energy on everyone. Halie loved to be surrounded by her friends where she felt warm, safe and happy. She had an engaging grace which drew people to her. She listened intently to everyone and never judged. Forgiveness came natural to her and friendships never ended. Halie never wanted to be alone and being surrounded by her friends brought her great joy. She attended school in Buda and graduated from Hays High School, class of 2014. In addition, Halie’s life was blessed by those who loved her, including her aunt and uncle Sandi and Del Ballinger, her cousins Zoe Olvera and Lisa Ballinger and her boyfriend of four years Deaton Gutierrez. She will also be remembered and

missed by her parents Julie Preussman and Stanley Hewitt of Colorado, her grandmother Darlene Hewitt and Norma Ballinger as well as countless friends. A celebration of Halie’s life was held Thursday, June 11 with funeral Services the next day. Private cremation services followed. You may show your support by joining the “Hugs from Home” program located on Halie’s memorial webpage where your message will be given to the family during the service. Additional ways you can show you care: send flowers directly to the family, view a tribute video from the family, or share a memory in the tribute section.

often wear a tie and put a great deal of effort into his attire. Following his graduation from Lehman High school class of 2019, he attended a year at the University of Texas. When not studying or working at the family business, Kyle Donut, Jettra could be found playing his favorite online game, Call of Duty Warzone. Jettra loved people and always had a welcoming smile on his face. His cheerful demeanor was cherished by the patrons of Kyle Donut and his dedication to the family business kept their guests well served. Service came naturally to Jettra. He would often volunteer himself to help his friends with all kinds of projects and tasks. Jettra’s life was blessed KHUTH by those who loved him, including his parents Jettra DaOwn Khuth and Narith vid Khuth Phi, his siblings Kayarie, a quiet, Sarina, Alex and Kaylei, friendly and as well as his grandhardworkmother Tha Khuth, uncle ing young Saroun Slart and many man died cherished friends. unexpectA celebration of Jettra’s edly, on June 12, 2020 in life was held June 17, Kyle at the tender age of 2020 at Harrell Funeral 20. Jettra was born to Own Home. You may show your support by joining Khuth in Providence, the “Hugs from Home” Rhode Island on April 3, program located on 2000. He was the oldest of five children, raised in Jettra’s memorial webKyle with his four siblings page. We encourage you to Kayarie, Sarina, Alex and Kaylei by his mother Own reach out and show your and his stepfather Narith. support to the family Jettra loved to play the during this difficult time. Additional ways you can piano and sing. He pershow you care: send flowformed in the Hays High ers directly to the family, School Choir where his vocal prowess and love of view the tribute video from the family, or share the piano and keyboard flourished. Jettra loved to a memory in the tribute section. be dressed up. He would

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COVID in Kyle Continued from pg. 1

being presented to people outside of the city limits as well. Council member Alex Villalobos said they are trying to help people understand the importance of social distancing and providing reasons why people should follow it, hoping that residents will have an

emotional connection for better implementation. Mitchell said he is also relying on hospitalization data because those numbers cannot be broadly interpreted. So far, Kyle has seen zero deaths and an average of four to six hospitalizations at a time.

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

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More can be done, he said. Some things, like better heat maps, would help the city know where to better target the messages and tailor them to the community needs, and these are not being provided, the mayor said. But with the limited in-

ASSEMBLIES OF GOD

CHURCH OF CHRIST

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

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

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

BAPTIST First Baptist Church-Buda 104 San Marcos St., Buda First Baptist Church-Kyle 300 W. Center St., Kyle Hays Hills Baptist Church 1401 FM 1626, Buda

Manchaca Baptist Church Lowden Lane & FM 1626

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

512-312-2383

Locally owned and operated by Jimmy and Cindi Ferguson

Immanuel Baptist Church 4000 E. FM 150, 4 miles east of Kyle Center Union Baptist Church Goforth Rd., Buda Primera Mision Bautista Mexicana Kyle

Texas Crossword Solution

Baptist Church of Driftwood 13540 FM 150 W.

St. Anthony Marie Claret Church 801 N. Burleson, Kyle St. Michael’s Catholic Church S. Old Spanish Trail, Uhland CHRISTIAN

Santa Cruz Catholic Church

1100 Main Street • Buda, Texas 78610 Office: 512-312-2520 • Fax: 512-295-2034 • santacruzcc.org Rev. David Leibham, Pastor • Fr. Rito Davila, Parochial Vicar CONFESSION Saturdays: 4 p.m.-5 p.m. MASS SCHEDULE: Saturday evening: 5:30 p.m. Sunday 8:30 a.m. (Spanish), 11 a.m. (English) 5 p.m. (English)

OFFICE HOURS Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

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

CATHOLIC Santa Cruz Catholic Church 1100 Main Street, Buda

Texas Crossword, from page 6

A PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT

Faith Assembly of God 1030 Main St., Buda

Southeast Baptist Church 5020 Turnersville Rd., Creedmoor

McDonald’s of Buda

formation being presented, the city and county will continue to broadcast the basic tenets of COVID-19 prevention: frequent hand-washing with soap and water, standing six feet apart and wearing face masks when out in public.

Wash your hands!

Come worship with us

Sledge Chapel Missionary Baptist Church 709 Sewell, Kyle

Your Hometown McDonald’s

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

METHODIST Buda United Methodist Church San Marcos & Elm St., Buda Kyle United Methodist Church Sledge & Lockhart St., Kyle Journey United Methodist 4301 Benner Rd, Kyle, Tx St. Paul’s United Methodist Church 7206 Creedmoor Rd., Creedmoor

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The Connection Church 1235 S. Loop 4, Buda

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Antioch Community Church Old Black Colony Rd., Buda

Providing you with your most important local news for Kyle, Buda and surrounding communities

Completed & Perfected Faith Church Tobias Elementary Cafeteria, FM 150, Kyle Kingdom United Christian Church 100 Madison Way, Buda Mission Fellowship Church 200 San Marcos Street, Buda

Pure Texas

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

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Vertical Chapel 5700 Dacy Lane (McCormick M.S.), Buda A Fountain of Life Church 302 Millenium Dr. Kyle

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

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Word of Life Christian Faith Center 118 Trademark Drive, Buda

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Por Tu Gracia Fellowship 701 Roland Lane, Kyle Trinity United Chuch of Niederwald 13700 Camino Real, Hwy. 21, Niederwald PENTECOSTAL Mision de Casa de Oracion S. Hwy. 81, Kyle New Life Sanctuary Kyle Science Hall Elementary 1510 Bebee Rd. PRESBYTERIAN

New Life Christian Church 2315 FM 967, Buda

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

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

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

Driftwood United Methodist Church RR 150 at County Road 170

First Presbyterian Church 410 W. Hutchison, San Marcos, TX 78666

Buda United Methodist Church Elm Street & San Marcos

*Traditional Worship (Worship Center)-9 a.m. Sunday School (all ages)-10:00 a.m.

*Informal Worship (Worship Center)-11 a.m. Wednesday Evening (Chapel)-6:30 p.m.

Rev. Lisa Straus Office 295-6981 • www.BudaUMC.org

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First Baptist Church

Hays Hills

A loving & caring Southern Baptist Church 104 S. San Marcos Street, Buda Buddy Johnson, Pastor • 295-2161

Baptist Church

Sunday School...........................................9:30 a.m. Morning Worship....................................10:45 a.m.

9:30 a.m. Classic Service 10:45 a.m. Contemporary service Adult (including an 8:30 a.m. early bird class), teen, children’s classes * Children’s worship Professionally-staffed nursery & pre-school

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Wednesday Bible Study/Youth Activities...6:00 p.m. AWANA’s (Wednesday)..........................6:00 p.m.

www.hayshills.org 1401 N. FM 1626

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

Page 8

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • June 17, 2020

Double Homicide

Continued from pg. 1 attempting to flee. Their bodies were discovered around 6 p.m. – Manning’e some 82 feet from the vehicle and Robinson’s approximately 28 feet away. About an hour later, Bryan Haynes, 36, told his two brothers in Austin that he had shot at “aliens” on an ATV with fire department decals. A Caldwell County Sheriff’s Office investigator met with the brothers on June 10 and Haynes was arrested June 11 and charged with capital murder. The brothers told Caldwell deputy Jeff Ferry that they knew the suspect had been in possession of a 9-millimeter handgun. A prayer vigil for the cousins was held in Luling on June 15. The next day, community members lined roadways as an escort brought their bodies home. PHOTOS BY MOSES LEOS III

Area athletes get back in the swing of things After months of working out at home due to local and state Coronavirus restrictions, thousands of high school athletes hit the fields and the courts June 8 after the UIL allowed for schools to begin summer workouts. Included were incoming 9th-12th graders at Hays High, Lehman High and Johnson High who participated in strength and conditioning and sports-specific workouts with several safety measures in place. Per UIL rules, participating students were required to stay at least six feet apart from each other during workouts, while coaches were tasked with sanitizing equipment and surfaces after each group. Outdoor workouts were limited to 25 students per group, while indoor workouts were limited to 25 percent capacity of the facility. In addition, Hays CISD required schools to conduct daily temperature checks for students and staff prior to their participation.

Be Counted! For Census 2020 information, visit www.Census2020.org

Police Blotter The following is a tally of all calls made to law enforcement within Hays County between June 8 and June 14, 2020.

Below is a sample of events reported by law enforcement from June 8 through June 14, 2020. The location is where the event was reported or responded to and may not necessarily be where the event occured.

Civil Matter...............................................................................................8 Information.............................................................................................20 Property Lost/Found/Imp........................................................................2 Sex Offender Registry.............................................................................1 Alarm Business......................................................................................46 Alarm Residential..................................................................................37 Animal Calls...........................................................................................62 Field Euthanasia......................................................................................4 Loose Livestock....................................................................................16 Assault - Aggravated...............................................................................1 Assault.....................................................................................................4 Sexual Assault.........................................................................................1 Assist EMS.............................................................................................20 Assist Fire Dept.......................................................................................9 Assist Outside Agency..........................................................................12 Suspicious Package................................................................................1 Burglary Building.....................................................................................2 Burglary Habitation.................................................................................1 Burglary Vehicle.......................................................................................8 Criminal Mischief.....................................................................................9 Environmental Crime...............................................................................1 Illegal Dumping........................................................................................1 Death Investigation.................................................................................2 Attended Death.......................................................................................6 Disturbance Noise.................................................................................15 Disturbance Physical Fight...................................................................12 Disturbance Verbal................................................................................30 Child Custody..........................................................................................3 Narcotics/Information.............................................................................1 Marijuana.................................................................................................1 Fraud......................................................................................................12 Credit/Debit Abuse..................................................................................1 Harassment............................................................................................12 Threat.......................................................................................................5 Mental Health Follow Up.........................................................................7 Mental Health Invest...............................................................................5 Mental Health Transport..........................................................................4 Canine Search.........................................................................................6 Canine Training........................................................................................1 Viol City Ordinance..................................................................................1 Personal Break Medium..........................................................................1 Missing Person........................................................................................2 Drone Deployment..................................................................................3 Runaway..................................................................................................3 Public Assist............................................................................................7 Community Contact..............................................................................34 Disabled Vehicle....................................................................................29 Foot Patrol...............................................................................................4 Close Patrol.........................................................................................313 Parental Discipline Assist........................................................................1 Flagged Down.........................................................................................6 Welfare Concern....................................................................................32 Suicidal Person........................................................................................3 Investigation............................................................................................6 Supplement...........................................................................................51 Suspicious Circumstances...................................................................27 Extradition................................................................................................1 Suspicious Person.................................................................................19 Suspicious Vehicle................................................................................35 Wanted Person........................................................................................2 Vehicle Theft............................................................................................3 Identity Theft............................................................................................1 Theft.......................................................................................................14 Accident Minor......................................................................................26 Accident Hit and Run............................................................................18 Accident Major/Injury............................................................................12 Accident Fleet..........................................................................................1 Accident Unknown..................................................................................3 Abandoned/Stored Vehicle.....................................................................5 Traffic Control/Direction..........................................................................3 Directed/Area Enforcement..................................................................55 Traffic Hazard.........................................................................................16 Attempt to Locate.................................................................................65 Parking Enforcement.............................................................................11 Traffic Stop...........................................................................................388 Trespassing/Unwanted.........................................................................13 911 Abandoned/Open.........................................................................342 Deadly Conduct.......................................................................................3 Discharged Firearm...............................................................................10 Private Tow/Open....................................................................................9 EMS Response........................................................................................1

Agency HCSO HCSO BPD BPD

HCSO BPD

HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO BPD

HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO

HCSO BPD

HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO BPD

HCSO HCSO BPD

HCSO HCSO HCSO BPD BPD BPD

HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO BPD BPD BPD

HCSO

HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO

Activity

Date

Sexual Assault

06/08/2020

Burglary - Vehicle

06/08/2020

Burglary - Building Harassment Harassment

Accident - Major/Injury Accident - Major/Injury Assault

Suicidal Person Suicidal Person

Deadly Conduct

Disturbance - Phys/Fight Disturbance - Phys/Fight Wanted Person

Accident - Major/Injury Death Investigation Suicidal Person Assault

Disturbance - Phys/Fight Harassment

Harassment Harassment

Accident - Major/Injury

Disturbance - Phys/Fight Death Investigation Burglary - Building Harassment Harassment

Wanted Person

Accident - Major/Injury Accident - Major/Injury Burglary - Habitation Burglary - Vehicle Burglary - Vehicle Missing Person Assault

Disturbance - Phys/Fight Disturbance - Phys/Fight Harassment Harassment Harassment

Accident - Major/Injury Accident - Major/Injury Accident - Major/Injury Deadly Conduct Deadly Conduct

Accident - Major/Injury Assault - Aggravated Assault

Burglary - Vehicle Burglary - Vehicle Burglary - Vehicle

Disturbance - Phys/Fight Disturbance - Phys/Fight Disturbance - Phys/Fight Accident - Major/Injury

Disturbance - Phys/Fight Disturbance - Phys/Fight Disturbance - Phys/Fight Disturbance - Phys/Fight Accident - Major/Injury

06/08/2020 06/08/2020 06/08/2020 06/08/2020 06/08/2020 06/09/2020 06/08/2020 06/08/2020 06/08/2020 06/09/2020 06/09/2020 06/09/2020 06/09/2020 06/09/2020 06/09/2020 06/11/2020 06/10/2020 06/10/2020

06/10/2020 06/10/2020 06/10/2020 06/11/2020 06/10/2020 06/11/2020 06/11/2020 06/11/2020 06/11/2020 06/11/2020 06/11/2020 06/12/2020 06/12/2020 06/12/2020 06/12/2020 06/12/2020 06/12/2020 06/13/2020 06/12/2020

Time

Street/City

7:07:19

13000 W Us 290 Austin

19:19:00 7:27:46

10:25:58 14:18:02 17:54:02 16:51:23 19:27:35 14:11:51 5:37:16

18:23:23 13:42:45 20:54:40 9:04:00

16:57:30 20:44:59 12:57:17 1:15:45

19:50:30 16:50:12 21:23:09 23:29:22 11:33:16 13:31:21 11:52:31 9:41:19

10:04:17 21:30:58 20:38:41 19:10:43 11:56:27 15:49:59 6:56:09 7:07:22

12:50:41 18:31:28 22:10:35 1:36:15

20:30:40

06/12/2020

9:04:08

06/12/2020

10:03:49

06/12/2020 06/12/2020 06/12/2020 06/13/2020 06/14/2020 06/13/2020 06/14/2020 06/13/2020 06/14/2020 06/14/2020 06/14/2020 06/14/2020 06/14/2020 06/14/2020 06/13/2020

06/14/2020 06/14/2020 06/14/2020 06/15/2020

06/14/2020

10:47:07 22:26:52 22:34:33

11:07:35 4:17:10 2:27:09 3:07:10

14:04:40 14:28:11 15:37:11 20:20:31 0:07:22 2:40:56 5:28:37

19:58:12 15:13:21

20:11:49 22:13:12

1:01:04

13:00:41

Purcell Pl Dripping Springs Royston Rd Buda Speedy Stop Jack C Hays Trl Buda

Palomino Ln San Marcos EXIT 217 SB Buda

RR 3237/W RR 150 Driftwood Lavaca Heights Dr Austin Joanne Loop Buda

Willis Way San Marcos

6050 S IH 35 San Marcos Canyon Trail RV Park Signal Hill Rd Austin

Char Crest Ct San Marcos Clair Dr San Marcos

N FM 1626/RR 967 Buda

SH 80 San Marcos Sunny Acres MHP

Robert S Light Blvd Trails At Buda Ranch Apts S Oak Forest Dr Dripping Springs Susan Dr Buda

Oak Meadow Dr Dripping Springs W US 290 Dripping Springs Sunrise Dr Kyle

Niederwald Strasse/Camino Real Kyle Green Meadows Ln Buda

Morningwood Dr San Marcos FM 2001 Buda Wibtech Prairie Cir Buda

Arroyo Doble San Marcos Summit Dr Kyle

Old Goforth Rd/FM 2001 Buda

Roger Hanks Pkwy Dripping Springs Niederwald Strasse Kyle Livonia Dr Buda

Woodbrook Trl Buda

Smarty Jones Ave Austin Quail Run San Marcos

East St/Prairie Ave Buda

Main St Buda Candlewood Suites

Cabelas Dr Buda Carrington Oaks Coronado Ln Kyle Coronado Ln Kyle

RR 2325/RR 12 Wimberley

S Old Bastrop Hwy San Marcos

Hog Hollow Rd Dripping Springs

Melody Way Wimberley Wimberley Boutique Windy Hollow Ln Kyle

Hilliard Rd San Marcos

Mt Sharp Rd Wimberley

Jack C Hays Trl Kyle All Weather 15570 IH 35 FR Buda Cabelas 15570 IH 35 FR Buda Cabelas

550 Old San Antonio Rd Buda Cracker Barrel Southern Dr Buda

Windy Hollow Ln Kyle

Overlook Mountain West Buda Camino Real Kyle

Green Pastures Dr Kyle Freedom Dr Wimberley Overpass Rd Buda Mercedes Ln Kyle

Robert S Light Blvd Buda

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • June 17, 2020

Page 9

AP English courses change DSHS Health Science at Johnson High School students earn certifications BY MEGAN WEHRING Johnson High School in Buda will have the first advanced placement literature class at the junior level next year while other high schools keep it strictly for seniors. While elementary and middle schools focus primarily on literature, AP language and composition is currently required for high school juniors. Tim Savoy, chief communication officer for Hays CISD, provided a statement to the Hays Free Press about the adjustment. “The AP language and composition class in the junior year can interrupt the cumulative formation due to the focus on rhetoric, synthesis and

argument,” the statement read. “It will not build the cultural literacy bank of novels and plays since none are read in this class.” The course will focus on preparation for the AP literature exam. Students will learn to read with more depth and read complex literary works while looking at the key elements authors use. “The novels, plays and poetry selections will be made to concentrate on those that appear most frequently on the AP literature and composition exam, not only in the FRQ [free-response question] #3, but for multiple choice questions and the other two FRQs as well,” the statement read. While AP language and

A total of 19 seniors from the Dripping Springs High School Health Science Academy passed health science certification exams for personal trainer, pharmacy technician and medical assistant. This is the highest number of certifications earned since DSHS began offering this opportunity. The Pharmacy Technician and Clinical Medical Assistant certifications have been offered the past three years; this is the first year for the Personal Trainer course of study. Three of the newly cer-

composition is fairly new to students, it will be the class that most will take their freshman year of college. It’s considered to be a preparation course for high school seniors in reading and writing papers for other classes in college. Johnson High School is the only campus that will implement the change, thus far. Savoy said the district will only make the transition to Johnson for the upcoming school year. “We made the change at Johnson because they do not have an established practice yet,” Savoy said. “The sequence will stay the same for now at Hays and Lehman since any changes would require a doubling-up in course offerings.”

tified personal trainers already are working in internships with Swift Sessions, a local sports performance facility and one of the pharmacy technicians is employed at Walgreen’s. Passing the certification requirements for Certified Personal Trainer were: Matthew Hernandez, Emma Jones, Joshua Malcom, Alexa Smith and Tyler Wolff. Students who have passed the exam to earn certification as Certified Pharmacy Technicians are: Chloe Aguilar, Carson Darling, Katherine

Farber, Jessica Heinz, Isabella Tyler and Jeffrey Walker. New Certified Clinical Medical Assistants are: Yesenia Collazo, Audrey Dykoff, Cassedy Fuselier, Avery Kalsu, Evelyn Ortega, Dylan Smith and Colby White. Isabella Tyler received certification as both a Pharmacy Technician and Clinical Medical Assistant. Approximately 30 additional DSHS students will be taking an exam this month in one of these areas. The exam process has been slowed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Peace and Progress Continued from pg. 1

know exactly what we are standing for and why we are standing for it. Solving this issue takes exposure, education, compassion and empathy,” Ellison said. “We hope this is just the beginnings of many more actions to come. The momentum must be sustained, and the moment cannot be lost.” A group of panelists from a multitude of perspectives and backgrounds have been recruited to participate, including: Mayor Travis Mitchell, Chief of Police James Barnett, police Chaplain Marquet Curl, President of the Kyle Law Enforcement Association Phillip Cleary, Keito Academy of Ethno-Cultural Performing Arts Executive Director Keito St. James, Founder and President of Kyle Cultural Awareness Laura

McMahon, Ben Wempe of JP Morgan, standup comedian and former teacher Winston Dean, Director of Marketing at BrainJuice, LLC and recording artist Richard Robinson, former Texas State University instructor and former executive director of the Calaboose African American History Museum Vanessa Westbrook, Marine veteran and managing principal and Chief Financial Planner at Simonet Financial Group Bill Simonet, father of four and editor-in-chief of INSTORE Magazine Trace Shelton, Gladys Carrillo and Mariah Santos of Mothers4BlackLives, current General Counsel for the Hays County Republican Party Bud Wymore and Rubén Castañeda, who works

to defend children and juveniles in the Travis County juvenile court system. “We hope that people all over this city and area tune in with their families, and then feel encouraged to then have further discussions within their homes, amongst neighbors, churches, community organizations, officials, law enforcement and so on,” Ellison said. The event will be held in-person at Kyle City Hall, 110 W. Center St., but other options for participation include streaming the panel online through Kyle10, the city’s YouTube channel (https://www. youtube.com/cityofkyletx) or the City of Kyle Facebook page (https://www. facebook.com/cityofkyletx/live/).

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Refinance and Save for the Things that Matter Most

Rebel Road Rename

Auto Loans

Continued from pg. 1

“This isn’t about me, it’s about our values,” Mitchell told the Hays Free Press. “To most graduates of Hays High School, ‘Rebel Pride’ means the same thing as ‘Ranger Pride’ or ‘Lobo Pride.’ But to the outside world it means something different.”

as low as

New, Used, and Refinance

–Travis Mitchell, Kyle Mayor

downtown square. When seen from above, the square’s perimeter and diagonal sidewalks resemble the “stars and bars” of the Confederate battle flag, he pointed out. He told the newspaper he plans to ask the Historical Commission “for permission to remove the sidewalks.” When he floated his ideas about Rebel Road on Facebook, many of the comments were predictable. Many Hays High School graduates defend-

ed “tradition,” while others agreed that it is time for a change. Still others wondered if Kyle residents could have a hand in what the road’s new name might be. One noted that Fergus Kyle, who founded the city named in his honor, himself served in the Confederate Army. According to the Texas Handbook, even after hostilities ceased, “Kyle continued throughout his life to wear his Confederate gray uniform on frequent occasions.”

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“This isn’t about me, it’s about our values,” Kyle Mayor Travos Mitchell told the Hays Free Press. “To most graduates of Hays High School, ‘Rebel Pride’ means the same thing as ‘Ranger Pride’ or ‘Lobo Pride.’ But to the outside world it means something different. “It’s about whether or not we still find it acceptable to project ‘Rebel Pride’ to those who don’t live here.” Mitchell said though he’s not originally from Kyle, he’s “lived my whole life within a two-hour drive.” He said at the time he grew up on the Leon River in Coryell County, he lived on a rural road “without a single black neighbor for miles and miles.” Mitchell said he is also planning to petition the Texas Historical Commission about changes he would like to see to Kyle’s

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Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • June 17, 2020

Overcoming struggle and rejection

Luling man fulfills dream of becoming a veterinarian SUBMITTED REPORT

Victor Lopez wanted to become one thing in his life – a veterinarian. Born to immigrant parents with little money or education, going to school while working full-time and numerous rejections from veterinary colleges, the odds were stacked against Victor. But on June 1, 2020, he accomplished his goal. Lopez, 33, was raised in Luling in central Texas on his parent’s small ranch. One night, when Lopez was about 10, he and his father took a sick calf to the veterinarian to save its life. “This was something I never experienced before and I thought, ‘This is what I want to do,’” Lopez said. He began to spend his childhood caring for his family’s livestock and realized, “Families like mine may not like going to the veterinarian because of a language barrier. I hope to change that,” Lopez said. A chance encounter while Lopez was working at a sandwich shop located at a truck stop during his senior year in high school would become a pivotal point in his life. A customer, veterinarian Dr. John Davidson struck up a friendly conversation with Lopez about his life. When Lopez shared his goal, Davidson explained that he and his business partner, Dr. Steven Golla, of Chisholm Trail Veterinary Clinic, were opening

“My parents came to this country with nothing and they were looking for the American dream and I made it happen for them. I am able to finally tell my parents I am a doctor now!” –Victor Lopez, Luling native

a new animal hospital. “He was professional, detail-oriented and you could tell that he was just different,” said Golla. Lopez was quickly hired as a technician assistant in Golla’s veterinary practice. After graduating high school in 2005, Lopez earned his associate’s degree in veterinary technology from Palo Alto College in San Antonio and later a bachelor’s degree in animal science from Texas State University in San Marcos, all the while working full-time at the vet clinic and on his parents’ ranch. He becomes the first of his more than 50-member family to obtain an undergraduate degree. During his junior year at Texas State, Lopez applied to the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences and was rejected – not once, but twice. Undeterred, Lopez enrolled in a master’s degree program at Texas A&M University, Kingsville while continuing to work full-time. He applied to veterinary school for the third time and again, was

denied admission. By 2015, Lopez graduated with a master’s degree in animal science, another first for his family. “It was hard for my parents to comprehend what I was doing because they only had an elementary school education,” Lopez said. “Every time I graduated with a degree, they’d ask me, ‘Are you a doctor yet?’ and I’d have to say, ‘No not yet.’” Later that same year, Lopez applied to veterinary school outside his home state and was finally accepted by Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine in Alabama for the class of 2020. On May 1, 2020, Lopez graduated from Tuskegee with a “virtual” graduation ceremony with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. He is now the first doctor in his family. “My parents came to this country with nothing and they were looking for the American dream and I made it happen for them,” Lopez said. “I am able to finally tell my parents I am a doctor now!” “You meet people who

COURTESY PHOTO

Victor Lopez began dreaming of becoming a veterinarian when, at the age of 10, his father took him and their sick calf to the vet and the doctor saved the animal’s life.

are born to do things. And this is what he was born to do, to be a veterinarian,” Golla said. “If there was ever a sure thing, it was him.” Lopez joins Dr. Garrett Montgomery at Chisholm

Trail Veterinary Clinic as an associate veterinarian, a long way from his first job at the clinic more than 15 years ago. Lopez wants to be a role model for his community. “There are kids

from the same situation as I was who come into the clinic and want to follow the same path,” he said. “Now they can see first-hand that the American dream is not impossible.”

Hays YMCA re-opens, picks new chairperson STAFF REPORT

Even as the Hays YMCA opened its doors again on June 1, it also named a new chair to its board. At the end of May, the board affirmed the appointment of Brian Carter as its new board chair. As he takes this role on during uncertain times, Carter wants the community to know the role of the Y is as important now

as it ever has been. “For many within our area, the Y is their community center. Our neighbors come here for childcare, for programs that help them stay healthy and fit, and to participate in group sports and activities,” Cater said. “There’s an eagerness from our members to restore that sense of community with each other.” The Hays County

location was one of six Austin-area YMCA locations to open June 1 with reduced hours and new safety procedures for staff and facility users. While the doors physically opened to the public after being closed

for almost ten weeks, the members of the board continued to work closely with the leadership staff during that time. Financial support for the Y became a primary goal as many programs were cut short due to the

COVID-19 pandemic. The Y provided programs remotely to local essential workers and healthcare providers with childcare, virtual fitness programming, outreach to seniors, parent resources, and more. The

help of the community’s financial support assisted in carrying out these programs. From the beginning of March through the end of May, more than 60 donations were made totalling about $8,200.

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Hays Free Press • June 17, 2020

Page 11

Amazon in Buda Continued from pg. 1

hour, and offer entrepreneurs the opportunity to build their own business delivering packages on behalf of Amazon. Even though the location has been set and opening has been officially announced, the opening date remains a mystery. Having a large business entity choose to continue its business growth in Buda has long-term effects, besides the immediate job opportunities that it brings along. “When a company like Amazon chooses Buda,” said Jennifer Storm, president of Buda Economic Development Corporation, “it puts us on the map and affirms that Buda is well positioned

for growth with a prime location, a qualified workforce and a pro-business environment.” Bringing the 305,000 square-foot facility, located at 2956 Main St., Park 35 to Buda did not cost the BEDC any money; Storm said that no incentives were requested nor provided. Storm added that Amazon has been looking to come to Buda since last year. “We’re excited to increase our investment in Texas with a new delivery station in Buda,” said Amazon spokesperson Jen Crowcroft. John Ellis of the Greater San Marcos Partnership, a public/private economic development initiative

serving Hays and Caldwell counties, said the GSMP is also largely in the dark about Amazon’s plans. “We were providing support,” he told the Hays Free Press. “There’s very little information available right now other than what’s being shared by Amazon.” He did say the use of an existing facility makes an opening later this year possible. However, Ellis said he does not know the number of people the company plans to hire and what it meant when it referred to “permanent, full-time jobs and power job opportunities for hundreds of small businesses and independent contractors in Buda.”

PHOTO BY ANITA MILLER

Amazon says it will open a delivery center sometime later this year at 2965 Main Street in Buda. The facility will be hiring both full and part time, and will also provide opportunities for individuals to build their own businesses delivering.

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Pool Service Over 10 years of experience Keith Miller, owner

Rick-Rob Trucking 512- 858-7952 www.rick-rob.com

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Plumbing

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Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • June 17, 2020

Page 12

Public Notices

Employment

DIRECT CARE COUNSELORS Provide positive role modeling, structure, and supervision to adolescent boys. No exp. required, We train comprehensively. Pay starting at $12 per hour for flexible 8 & 16 hr shift schedules. Health/life/dental insurance after 60 days. Min. requirements: Must be 21 yrs old, HS/GED, clean TDL, clean criminal history, pre-employment TB skin test, and drug screen. Growing (20+ year old) non-profit organization. www.pegasusschool.net. Call (512)432-1678 for further information.

FIREWORKS STAND MANAGER NEEDED

Make up to $3,000 in ONLY 11 days managing fireworks stand!!! NO INVESTMENT REQUIRED! June 24 - July 4, mrwfireworks.com to submit application or call 210-6223788 M-F.

Yard Sale MULTI-FAMILY YARD SALE

HWY 21 between Niederwald cemetery and Valero gas station at 15288 Camino Real. MultiFamily Yard Sale. Men & women’s clothing, shoes, jewelry, athletic deadlift bar and weights, TVs & electronics, bed frame, home décor, holiday décor/,purses, misc. items! EVERYTHING MUST GO!!!! Friday, June 26th at 8 a.m.

Public Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE Gragg Tract LP, (1010 W. Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Austin, Texas 78701) filed a well drilling application on February 11, 2020, with the Barton Springs/Edwards Aquifer Conservation District (District) for one new nonexempt well. The well is proposed to be discretely completed in the Lower Trinity aquifer, and is planned to be used as a public water supply well to support a future mixed use development along the FM 1626 and SH 45 corridor. A separate Production Permit Application will be required in order to operate and produce from this well in the future. The proposed well is located in Travis County on a 36.9 acre tract at FM 1626 (30.133597°, -97.860964°).

Publication of this notice was published in the Austin American Statesman on June 8, 2020 and begins a 20-day public response period for which comments, written formal protests and requests for a public hearing will be accepted by the District through the close of business June 28, 2020. Parties interested in formally participating in a hearing on a contested application should refer to District Rule 4-9.13. For further information, please contact the District, 1124 Regal Row, Austin, Texas 78748, (512) 282-8441, bseacd@bseacd.org. You may also contact the applicant, Gragg Tract, LP at (512) 481-0404.

INVITATION TO BIDDERS

Sealed Bids addressed to North Hays County Municipal Utility District No. 2, Attention Meghan Skornia, President, Board of Directors, will be received, until 10:00 a.m. Local Time, Friday July 17, 2020, and then publicly opened and read at LandDev Consulting, LLC, 4201 W Parmer Lane, Suite C-100, Austin, Texas 78727, for “PLUM CREEK MARKETPLACE AVENUE PHASE 2 – WATER, WASTEWATER, DRAINAGE, AND PAVING FACILITIES” for North Hays County Municipal Utility District No. 2, Hays County, Texas.” Due to the pandemic and Federal guidelines, bids will be opened and read aloud over a teleconference hosted by LandDev Consulting, LLC. Bidders may call into the bid opening through the following phone number: (512) 900-8904, (User Pin: 4607) Scope of Work of the Contract includes the following: Furnish and install approximately 826 LF of new roadway along with drainage, water, and wastewater infrastructure in Plum Creek. Drainage improvements include approximately 543 LF of drainage lines and approximately 83 LF of 4 x 10’x5’ culverts. Water improvements include approximately 941 LF of water line and appurtenances. Sewer improvements include approximately 144 LF of sanitary sewer line and appurtenances. An additive bid alternate includes the construction of approximately 2007 LF of conduit with related appurtenances. Bids received after the closing time will not be considered. An OPTIONAL pre-bid conference will be held on Wednesday, July 8, 2020, at 3:00 p.m. Local Time. The teleconference will be conducted through the following link: https://join.me/landdevatx. If contractors choose to call-in instead of using the link above, please utilize the call-in number and meeting ID noted below: +1.720.650.5050 Conference ID: 411-683-201 # Attendance by each prospective bidder or its representative at the pre-bid conference is OPTIONAL. Please also include the name of the bidder and the words “Plum Creek Marketplace Avenue Phase 2 – Water, Wastewater, Drainage, and Paving Facilities” on the sealed envelope. Each Bid must be accompanied by a Bid Bond or a certified or cashier’s check, acceptable to the Owner, in an amount not less than five percent (5%) of the total amount Bid, as a guarantee that the successful bidder will enter into the Contract and execute the Bonds on the forms provided, and provide the required insurance certificates within seven (7) days after the date Contract Documents are received by the Contractor. If a certified or cashier’s check is provided, the successful bidder shall deliver, at the bid opening address, the original certified or cashier’s check within twenty-four (24) hours of receipt of the bid opening. Copies of the bidding documents may be reviewed and obtained from LandDev Consulting, LLC, by emailing Anthony.Ennis@LandDevConsulting.com. There is NO charge to view or download documents. A Bidder submitting electronic Bids must submit its Bid and bid securities in compliance with Owner’s Order Adopting Section 49.2731 Electronic Bidding Rules and all electronic Bids and bid securities must be submitted through www.civcastusa.com search: Plum Creek Marketplace Avenue Phase 2 – Water, Wastewater, Drainage, and Paving Facilities. Bidder must register on this website in order to submit a Bid and bid security and there is no charge to submit Bids and bid securities on this website. By submitting a Bid, Bidder acknowledges and agrees that the Contract Documents may be accepted, executed or agreed to through the use of an Electronic Signature, as defined by and in accordance with Owner’s Electronic Signature Rules for Construction Contracts. The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all Bids and to waive all defects and irregularities in bidding or bidding process except time of submitting a Bid. The Successful Bidder, if any, will be the responsible Bidder which in the Board’s judgment will be most advantageous to the District and result in the best and most economical completion of the Project. The requirements of Subchapter J, Chapter 552, Government Code, may apply to this Bid and/or Contract and the Contractor agrees that the Contract can be terminated if the Contractor knowingly or intentionally fails to comply with a requirement of that subchapter. NORTH HAYS COUNY MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT NO. 2

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of NIKKI MACHAEL BARTH, deceased, were issued on March 2, 2020 under Docket number 20-0045-P, pending in the County Court of Hays County, Texas to ROY ELMER BARTH. Claims may be presented in care of the attorney for the Estate addressed as follows: ROY ELMER BARTH Independent Executor Estate of Nikki Machael Barth C/O Andrew Gary P. O. Box 727 San Marcos, Texas 78667 All persons having claims against this Estate which is currently being administered are required to present them within the time and in the manner prescribed by law. Dated this 11th. day of June, 2020 Andrew Gary Bar #7721000 P.O. Box 727 San Marcos, Texas 78667 512-396-2541 andrewgary@grandecom.net

CITATION BY PUBLICATION this case are cited to appear To all persons interested in the Estate of Alvin Ray McCulloch, Deceased, Cause No. 20-0158-P, in the County Court at Law, Hays County, Texas. The alleged heir(s) at law in the above-numbered and entitled estate filed an APPLICATION FOR PROBATE OF WILL AND FOR LETTERS TESTAMENTARY in this estate on the 2nd day of June, 2020, requesting that the Court determine who are the heirs and only heirs of Alvin Ray McCulloch, Deceased, and their respective shares and interests in such estate. The Court may act on this Application at any call of the docket on or after 10:00 A.M., on the first Monday next after the expiration of ten (10) days, exclusive of the day of Publication, from the date this citation is published, at the Hays County Government Center in San Marcos, Texas. All persons interested in

before this Honorable Court by filing a written contest or answer to this Application should they desire to do so. To ensure its consideration, you or your attorney must file any objection, intervention, or response in writing with the County Clerk of Hays County, Texas on or before the abovenoted date and time. Applicant’s Attorney: Anna Martinez Boling 1301 S. Old Stagecoach Road Kyle, Texas 78640 (512) 504-3051 and (512) 629-5353 Given under my hand and the seal of said Court at the office of the Hays County Clerk in San Marcos, Texas on this the 10th day of June, 2020. Elaine H. Cárdenas County Clerk, Hays County, Texas 712 S. Stagecoach Trail, Suite 2008 San Marcos, Texas 78666 BY Darren Jones, Deputy /s/ Darren Jones

CITY OF BUDA Buda, TX RFP 20-004 Depository and Banking Services ADVERTISEMENT FOR PROPOSALS Sealed Proposals, pursuant to Local Government Code Chapter 252, will be received for Depository and Banking Services by the City of Buda - Finance Department, 405 E. Loop Street, Buda, Texas until 2:00 PM local time on July 9, 2020. Immediately thereafter, the bid proposals will be publicly opened and read aloud in the Multi-Purpose Room 1034 within Buda City Hall located at 405 E. Loop Street, Building 100, Buda, Texas. The Banking services being requested under this RFP include full service basic banking services including but not limited to receiving deposits, remote deposits, paying items, wire transfers (in and out), stop payments, positive pay verifications, ACH services, account analysis, records management, monthly statements, special reports, meeting daily collateral requirements, quarterly feedback meetings, etc. The Issuing Office for this Solicitation is the City of Buda - Finance Department, 405 E. Loop Street, Building 100, Buda, Texas 78610, Attn: Rosemary Esparza, Purchasing Manager; purchasing@ci.buda.tx.us. Prospective Proposers may examine the Bid Documents at the Issuing Office, Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., or copies of the Bidding Documents may be obtained from the Procurement Website as described below. Proposals Documents may be viewed and accessed online through the Procurement Website as described at http://ci.buda.tx.us/137/Purchasing. The City of Buda has partnered with BidNet as part of the Texas Purchasing Group and posts bid opportunities to this site. The documents are made available for the sole purpose of obtaining Bids for completion of the Project and permission to download does not confer a license or grant permission or authorization for any other use. Authorization to download documents includes the right for Bidders to print documents for their sole use, provided they pay all costs associated with printing or reproduction. Printed documents may not be re-sold under any circumstances. All official notifications, addenda, and other documents will be offered only through the Procurement Website. The Procurement Website may be updated periodically with Addenda, meeting summaries, reports, or other information relevant to submitting a Bid for the Project. The cost of printed Bidding Documents from the Procurement Website will depend on the number and size of the Drawings and Project Manual, and method selected by the prospective Bidder. Any cost associated with accessing the Bid Documents is non-refundable. Upon Issuing Office's receipt of payment, printed Bidding Documents will be sent via the prospective Bidder's delivery method of choice; the shipping charge will depend on the shipping method chosen. The date that the Bidding Documents are transmitted by the Issuing Office will be considered the Bidder's date of receipt of the Bidding Documents.

CITY OF BUDA Buda, TX IFB 20-007 Buda ASR1 Surface Facilities Project ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Sealed Bids, pursuant to Local Government Code Chapter 252, will be received for the Buda ASR1 Surface Facilities Project by the City of Buda - Finance Department, 405 E. Loop Street, Buda, Texas until 2:00 PM local time on July 16, 2020. Immediately thereafter, the bid proposals will be publicly opened and read aloud in the Multi-Purpose Room 1034 within Buda City Hall located at 405 E. Loop Street, Building 100, Buda, Texas. The project includes construction of concrete pavement and well pad, installation of line shaft well pump, process piping, equipment shelter, electrical and instrumentation, security fencing, facility startup, and site restoration. Bids will be received for a single prime Contract. Bids shall be on a lump sum and unit price basis, with additive alternate bid items (if any) as indicated in the Bid Form. The Issuing Office for this Solicitation is the City of Buda - Finance Department, 405 E. Loop Street, Building 100, Buda, Texas 78610, Attn: Rosemary Esparza, Purchasing Manager; purchasing@ci.buda.tx.us. Prospective Bidders may examine the Bid Documents at the Issuing Office, Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., or copies of the Bidding Documents may be obtained from the Procurement Website as described below. Bid Documents may be viewed and accessed online through the Procurement Website as described at http://ci.buda.tx.us/137/Purchasing. The City of Buda has partnered with BidNet as part of the Texas Purchasing Group and also posts bid opportunities to this site. The documents are made available for the sole purpose of obtaining Bids for completion of the Project and permission to download does not confer a license or grant permission or authorization for any other use. Authorization to download documents includes the right for Bidders to print documents for their sole use, provided they pay all costs associated with printing or reproduction. Printed documents may not be re-sold under any circumstances. All official notifications, addenda, and other documents will be offered only through the Procurement Website. The Procurement Website may be updated periodically with Addenda, meeting summaries, reports, or other information relevant to submitting a Bid for the Project. The cost of printed Bidding Documents from the Procurement Website will depend on the number and size of the Drawings and Project Manual, and method selected by the prospective Bidder. Any cost associated with accessing the Bid Documents is nonrefundable. Upon Issuing Office’s receipt of payment, printed Bidding Documents will be sent via the prospective Bidder’s delivery method of choice; the shipping charge will depend on the shipping method chosen. The date that the Bidding Documents are transmitted by the Issuing Office will be considered the Bidder’s date of receipt of the Bidding Documents A pre-bid conference will be held on June 25, 2020 at 2:00 PM in the Multi-Purpose Room 1034 within Buda City Hall located at 405 E. Loop Street Building 100, Buda, Texas. Bid security shall be furnished in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders. Owner: City of Buda By: John Nett, PE Title: City Engineer Date: June 5, 2020

Hays Free Press • June 17, 2020

Page 13

COVID Information Continued from pg. 5

this week will have a smoother go, Zwiener said the numbers on Sunday demonstrate the urgent need for a permanent, drive-up, no appointment needed site. “San Marcos has a desperate need for that,” she said. She’d also like to see regular, public briefings on the coronavirus and its countywide impact. “I’m a State Representative and I don’t know what the county is doing. If I don’t know, the press and public don’t know either and that is alarming.” Zwiener also took issue with the county’s process of contact tracing and its refusal, at least so far, to take advantage of the state’s offer to help. The county has the option, Zwiener said, of asking the State Department of Health Services to help with initial contact

tracing. “They have so far turned that down,” she said, couching that with the fact that there have been questions about the company the state awarded the contact tracing contract to. What HIPAA laws say about the release of information also troubles Zwiener. “I understand that balancing essential HIPAA protections and public information can be a

challenge, and protecting patients’ anonymity is essential,” she wrote in her open letter. “However, I am concerned about a pattern of the county not releasing trend data on the grounds that it would violate HIPAA protections, even as other counties release similar data. Trend data doesn’t threaten patient anonymity and gives our local leaders and the public information they need to protect their communities.”

She said now is the time for more transparency. “I think we’re in a bad spot. In a week, we’ve had one out of every 500 people in Hays County test positive. We are seeing an exponential rise.”

TEXAS DISPOSAL SYSTEMS

TDS IS NOW HIRING! Find your career with us.

Opportunities Include: Landscape Workers, Welder, CDL Drivers, Temporary Special Event Workers, Mechanics, and more.

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

Sign-On Bonus Available* *Certain positions

Open for appointments Fully prepared for your safety in our care At Ascension Seton, the care you need is available today. From

routine visits and health screenings to surgical procedures and specialty care, our caregivers are fully prepared for your arrival. As we all embrace a new care experience, Ascension Seton will continue to maintain strict precautions for your safety in our care including screenings, social distancing and protective equipment. Yet our compassionate, personalized care remains unchanged. When you enter our open doors, you’ll be greeted by the Ascension Seton caregivers you know and trust. We are now open to schedule appointments for your urgent and ongoing care needs, including: surgical treatment for brain and spine, joints, heart, and bariatrics; wellness visits, prenatal care, pediatric immunizations, mammograms, heart and colorectal screenings; and all pediatric specialty care and procedures.

Page 14

NEWS

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch â&#x20AC;˘ June 17, 2020

Welcome to Sage Spring Assisted Living Here, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find a vibrant, welcoming senior living campus that is coupled with exceptional, personalized care in the heart of San Marcos. Our exquisite neighborhood strives to provide premier, tailored programming that will leave you feeling recharged, energized and stress-free. Our priority is to create a blend of relaxation, privacy, security and community for all our residents. Come and reap the luxurious rewards of Sage Spring Senior Living and embrace a celebration of life.

H OPENING SUMMER 2020 Call today to schedule a virtual tour.

H 800 Leah Ave San Marcos 78666 www.sagespringseniorliving.com 512-270-8668