Music fest to benefit Austin fosters
Who wins with charter schools?
page 2
Bold eats in local food scene
page 5
News-Dispatch Volume XXXVII No. 38 • Serving Western Hays County, Texas since 1982
page 6
75¢
Thursday, June 29, 2017
Hispanic population rises 41% in Hays County BY MOSES LEOS III
Nearly 80,000 people made up the Hispanic population in Hays County in 2016, which constituted a 41 percent rise since the 2010 Census. That figure, part of newly released Census Bureau estimates, followed the trend of a rapidly growing Hispanic population in Texas and the United States. Pauline Anton, President and CEO of the Texas Association of Mexican American
Elder Hill projects begin July 10
Chambers of Commerce (TAMACC) in Buda, says the numbers show what many in the community have known for some time. “We’ve been saying this (increase is coming). Now that the new Census data is out, it shows the huge population burst,” Anton said. “It’s here in Texas and it’s huge in Texas, and always has been.” Growth in the Hispanic population is reaching into communities, such as Hays County, that “may not had as much diversity” in the past, Anton said.
2016 CENSUS BUREAU ESTIMATES
Hays County total population – 204,470
The state’s proximity to Mexico is one factor that’s led to the rapid rise in the population.
APRIL 1, 2010 CENSUS BUREAU NUMBERS Hays County total population – 157,107
White
White
Black
Black
Asian
Asian
Two or more races
Two or more races
Hispanic
Hispanic
American Indian
American Indian
Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander
Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander
As a result, business growth in the population is also on the rise. Anton said the Hispanic
population is the fastest growing when it comes to entrepreneurship. In Texas, Anton said
POPULATION, 3
Safety first this Fourth of July
Cultivating success
STAFF REPORT
STAFF REPORT Commuters who use Elder Hill Road in Driftwood may have to add time to their drive next month as Hays County begins its reconstruction and resurfacing project. Hays County’s improvements to the road, which will start July 10, will run on Elder Hill Road from the FM 150 intersection to just past the La Ventana entrance, according to a county press release. The project is expected to cause driving delays. Speed limits will be reduced in the work area and motorists should plan on singlelane traffic between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. on week days. Constriction will begin on the eastern portion of the roadway and move west, according to the release. The entire project is expected to be completed by the fall. Hays County Precinct 4 Commissioner Ray Whisenant is encouraging motorists to slow down and obey construction zone signs. “Let’s make sure that our neighbors and our road workers are safe as this much-needed repair is completed,” he said.
there are more than 700,000 business owned by a Hispanic person. Businesses range from landscaping to restaurateurs, as well as doctors, certified public accountants (CPAs) and attorneys. “It’s putting people to work. That is driving the population growth here,” Anton said. “If there’re jobs, people will come. If there’re no jobs, they will look elsewhere.” Many segments of
With the Fourth of July holiday upcoming, Hays County Fire Marshal Clint Browning is asking residents to not only adhere to laws governing fireworks, but to remember about safety. Many cities in Hays County have laws prohibiting the use of fireworks. Dripping Springs prohibits the use of fireworks in the city if Hays County enacts a burn ban. Fireworks are also prohibited in city
FIREWORK REGULATIONS, 2
LAGNIAPPE PHOTO BY MOSES LEOS III
Above: Dripping Springs resident Michael Ryan shows off a first place blue ribbon won during the sixth annual Dripping Springs Tomato Roundup held on the Triangle near Mercer Street. Below: Wearing an appropriate t-shirt, Dan Hayes shows off samples of heirloom tomatoes at the annual Tomato Roundup.
Tomato Roundup showcases resurgence of local gardeners BY MOSES LEOS III
H
aving already won a handful of red and blue ribbons Saturday, Dripping Springs resident Michael Ryan had a sheepish grin after placing in another category at the sixth annual Dripping Springs Tomato Roundup. For 20 years now, Ryan has placed his heart and soul into the gardens he’s tended to. Every year, those gardens keep expanding, he said. Where some go to the links to find their inner peace, Ryan goes to his garden. “At the end of the day, it’s a place where I can go out there and leave myself to,” Ryan said. Ryan’s story is a common theme among those who attended the festival, which not only allows local growers to show off their ripest, reddest, juiciest tomatoes, but also to give a glimpse into the resurgence of the local organic garden. Getting to that point began six years ago when John Dromgoole, famed organic gardner and owner of The Natural Gardener in Austin, hosted the inaugural event on McGregor Road, where his
TOMATO ROUNDUP, 8
Market Days
Come celebrate Independence Day at Wimberley Market Days Saturday July 1 from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. rain or shine. Listen to live music on three stages from 11 a.m. through 2 p.m. This free event is located at Lions Field on RR 2325 Wimberley with ample parking in three lots. For more information see the Market Days web site at www.shopmarketdays. com or follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/ wimberleymarketdays.
Wimberley Fourth of July
The Wimberley Valley Chamber of Commerce extends an invitation to one and all to attend the annual July 4th Parade, the “Best Little Parade in Texas.” Wimberley’s parade theme this year is “Wimberley the Beautiful.” The parade begins at 10 a.m. at the intersection of Green Acres Road and FM 2325, proceeds to Ranch Road 12, continues through the Wimberley Square and ends at Blue Heron Run. Parade participants who are walking or riding horses will exit the parade route at Blue Heron, the remaining participants will exit the route at RR 12 and Stillwater. Entry PHOTO BY MOSES LEOS III
LAGNIAPPE, 2
Page 2
News-Dispatch
News-Dispatch PHONE: 512-268-7862 FAX: 512-268-0262 PUBLISHER Cyndy Slovak-Barton csb@haysfreepress.com EDITOR Moses Leos III moses@haysfreepress.com REPORTERS Samantha Smith news@haysfreepress.com PRODUCTION David White Christine Thorpe ADVERTISING/MARKETING Tracy Mack tracy@haysfreepress.com Leon Vigil ads@haysnewsdispatch.com Jim Darby ads@haysfreepress.com Daniela Arriaga ads@bartonpublicationsinc. com PHOTOGRAPHERS Wayland Clark PROOFREADER Jane Kirkham CIRCULATION MANAGER/ LEGAL NOTICES David White paper@ haysnewsdispatch.com
News-Dispatch (USPS 011 - 401) is published weekly except for the weeks following July 4 and Christmas by Barton Publications, Inc., 113 W. Center St., Kyle, TX 78640. Subscription price: $32 local, $45 county, $56 out of state. Periodicals Postage paid at Driftwood, TX. Email paper@haysnewsdispatch. com for subscriptions and address changes. POSTMASTER: send address changes to NewsDispatch, PO Box 339, Buda, TX 78610 LETTERS GUIDELINES We welcome locally written letters to the editor on timely topics of community interest. We ask that you keep them to about 350 words in length and that you not indulge in personal attacks on private individuals. Letters may be edited for brevity and clarity. All letters should be signed by the author and include a daytime phone number where the author can be contacted for verification. Letter writers are limited to one letter per month. Letters can be emailed to csb@ haysfreepress.com.
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Call (512) 268-7862 or email news@haysfreepress.com for news tips, notable community events, letters to the editors and anything else you think your local paper needs to know.
Texas Crossword Solution See puzzle on pg. 3
Thursday, June 29, 2017
Annual music festival to benefit Austin foster children, musicians
T
STAFF REPORT
he Dripping Springs Songwriters Festival will once again donate festival proceeds to Kids in a New Groove, an Austin-area nonprofit. The mission of Kids in a New Groove is to provide youth in foster care in Central Texas with a committed one-on-one mentoring relationship through weekly private music instruction, giving students the ability to build concrete strategies for lifelong success. Because youth in foster care are frequently moved between homes and placements, they aren’t able to participate in regular after-school programs that most children have access to. The program takes into account the frequency foster children are moved from hometo-home, as well as the lack of reliable transportation. But organizers also realize the “overwhelmingly positive impact of mentorship” and artistic opportunities. Music mentors travel to the students’ homes and teach them through their various placements, no matter how
COURTESY PHOTO
GET INVOLVED
To learn more about Kids in a New Groove, to volunteer as a mentor or to make a donation please visit their website at www.kidsinanewgroove.org, and to get more information about the October 20-22, 2017 Dripping Springs Songwriters Festival please visit www. drippingspringssongwritersfestival.com.
many times they may be moved. This provides the children with an important, consistent positive relationship, one of the few they are able to cultivate while in foster care. This
mentoring relationship gives the support that allows for the students to not only affect positive changes in their lives through music, but they also learn that they can break out of the pattern
FIREWORKS RULES AND REGULATIONS
that follows youth in foster care. Jim and Laurie Halfpenny, along with Dave Niemeyer, organizers of the Dripping Springs Songwriters Festival, have pledged to continue their support, both with cash and musical instrument donations. They hope that by associating the charity with the Festival that it will shed more light and encourage public response to the incredible work that Kids in a New Groove is doing.
FIREWORKS SAFETY TIPS
• It is illegal to sell or shoot fireworks within 100 feet of a place where flammable liquids, flammable compressed gasses or fireworks are sold or stored. • Despite what you may have seen in the movies, it is illegal to shoot fireworks from or towards a motor vehicle, including boats. • It is illegal to shoot fireworks from a public roadway, public property, park, lake or U.S. Corps of Engineer property. • The minimum age to buy or sell fireworks was recently changed from 12 to 16. • It is illegal to shoot fireworks within 600 feet of a church, hospital, day-care center or school. • It is illegal to shoot fireworks within city limits and, in many cities, it’s also illegal just to possess them. • In unincorporated areas where fireworks are legal, you may only shoot off fireworks if you own property there, or if you receive written permission from a property owner. • If you start a fire by shooting fireworks and the fire was found to be started intentionally, you may be subject to the charge of arson. If the fire is found to be accidental, you may be subject to a fine. In either case, you may be held civilly liable for damages.
• • • • • •
• Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them. • Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby. • Never allow young children to play with or ignite fireworks. Always have an adult supervise all fireworks activities. Children can suffer injuries even from sparklers, which parents often assume are “safe.” Sparklers can burn at temperatures of about 2,000 degrees, which is hot enough to melt some metals. • Avoid buying fireworks that are packaged in brown paper because this is often a sign that the fireworks were made for professional displays and that they could pose a danger to consumers. Never place any part of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Back up to a safe distance immediately after lighting fireworks. Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully. Never point or throw fireworks at another person. Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly. Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers. To prevent a trash fire, douse spent fireworks with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding.
Fireworks
Continued from pg. 1 parks. Fireworks use is illegal in the Wimberley and Kyle city limits. Jeff Barnett, Kyle Police
Chief, said the city will enact a zero tolerance policy regarding fireworks use in the city, with officers writing
citations and not warnings for violators. In Buda, fireworks are prohibited in the city and cannot be denotated
within 5,000 feet of the city’s limits, or extra territorial jurisdiction. Violations might result in a fine not to exceed $500.
proceeds benefit Camp Good Sam Wimberley. Call (512) 847-9956 for more information.
open event. The VFW Rodeo is sponsored by Wimberley’s VFW Post 6441 and Ladies Auxiliary as a not-for-profit event. Proceeds are used to support a variety of community activities and organizations.
liberty and justice for all. In that spirit, all are invited to this free professional fireworks show hosted by Rep. Jason Isaac. Although the fireworks themselves are free to enjoy, tickets are also available for a VIP dinner beforehand featuring the Salt Lick, live music, local beverages, and more. The optional air-conditioned dinner helps Rep. Isaac's campaign committee with the costs of producing the fireworks show. A major portion of the proceeds from Fire in the Sky benefits the North Hays County Fire Rescue. Park gates open at 5 p.m. on July 4. Doors open for private VIP dinner at 6:30 with dinner served at 7 p.m. Fireworks will go off at dark, around 9 p.m.
Lagniappe
Continued from pg. 1 forms can be found on www.wimberley.org or by contacting the chamber office - info@wimberley. org, (512) 847-2201.
Big Scoop Ice Cream Festival
The Wimberley Community Center will be the place to cool off while enjoying the Big Scoop Ice Cream Festival on July 1 from 1-7 p.m. This annual event is hosted by St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church and
VFW Rodeo
On June 30, July 1 and 2 the Wimberley VFW Post 6441 will host the 72nd Annual VFW Rodeo on Jacob’s Well Road. Fireworks will light up the night sky following each rodeo performance. Once the largest outdoor rodeo in Texas, the event still ranks near the top. This is a Cowboys Professional Rodeo Association sanctioned/
Fourth of July concerts To complete Wimberley’s July Jubilee, the Wimberley Community Chorus and the Hill Country Community Band will perform two patriotic concerts on July 4 at the Wimberley Baptist Church at 1 and 4 p.m. Come out and listen to some patriotic and Americana selections performed by your talented neighbors.
Fire in the Sky All DQ and Orange Julius trademarks owned or licensed by Am. D.Q. Corp. © 2017. All TDQOC trademarks owned by Texas Dairy Queen Operators’ Council Corp. © 2017. © 2017 Great Lakes Dairy Queen Owners Marketing Group, L.L.C., All Rights Reserved.
It's time to celebrate our country's founding and the values that knit our society together:
Do you know of a free community event to be included in Lagniappe? Send an email to christine@haysfreepress. com.
Thursday, June 29, 2017
www.HaysNewsDispatch.com
Page 3
COURTESY PHOTO
Driftwood Conservation Society cleans up FM 150
Over the past weekend, members of the Driftwood Historical Conservation Society collected over 21 bags of trash lining FM 150. The move to keep Driftwood beautiful was the focus for the DHCS, which has adopted a two-mile section of the road around the small town. Twenty-one volunteers assisted with cleaning the roadway. Courtesy photo
Take a quick bird vacation to South Africa
I
BY JERRY HALL
f you have a couple of weeks to spare this fall, you might consider a trip to southern Africa for a birding safari. You’ll want to visit Zambia, Zimbabwe and Botswana and see such diverse birds as carmine bee-eater, snake eagle, jacana, sacred ibis and many more. You’ll also have a chance to see one or more of the “Big Five” – lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and Cape buffalo. On my trip to this area, a highlight was seeing Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, and featuring a 30-story drop on the Zambezi River. I still recall the thunderous roar of the falling water and the
Population
Continued from pg. 1 society are also starting to take notice of the Hispanic population increase. Anton said corporations recognize Hispanics and Latinos are a growing consumer base. Corporations also realize many Hispanics and Latinos are also loyal to sponsors and brands, and that loyalty is passed down through generations, Anton said. But amid the successes and the rising population, Hispanics still face a variety of challenges. Starting up a business is more challenging for Hispanics than it was 10 to 15 years ago. “The Hispanic business owners, they have an entrepreneurial spirit that’s like no other,” Anton said. “They create business to be able to provide for families, not only for their families and future generations.” Struggles in representation continue for those in the Hispanic community. While larger cities such as Austin, Dallas and San Antonio harbor a diverse city council, smaller communities may not represent the overall Hispanic population as much. For example, only five of the 21 total elected officials on the Kyle and Buda City Councils and Hays CISD school board are Hispanic. Michael Torres is the only Hispanic constable in Hays County, while Debbie Gonzales Ingalsbe is the only Hispanic Hays County Commissioner. Serving on a school board is still a new concept in Hispanic
cool mist that floated over the observation area. We saw lions close enough to look into their bright golden eyes and we rode in canoes around the Okavango Delta, where hippos yawned, exposing huge gaping maws. Our guide said hippos killed more of the local natives than any other animal. “They can just bite you in two,” he explained. So enjoy the colorful birds, marvel at the roaring Victoria Falls and take lots of photos of the beautiful scenery. But watch out for those hippos. Road Scholar offers a 13-night trip to Botswana from November 3 to 16. If interested, call 877 426-8056 or visit www.roadscholar.org.
Texas Crossword
DeMasters - Daniel Insurance Agency, Inc. Serving Hays County since 1983 “Call us for all of your insurance needs” Angiel Dahl
sponsored by...
Wimberley: 512-847-5549 or 512-847-9325 Dripping Springs: 512-858-4608
Growth by the numbers 57.5 MILLION
Hispanic population in the U.S., according to 2016 estimates, which rose by two percent.
10.8 MILLION
Hispanic population in Texas in 2016
9.4 MILLION
Hispanic population in Texas in the 2010 Census
77,953
Hispanic population in Hays County in 2016
41 PERCENT
Increase in the Hispanic population in Hays County from 2010 to 2016
families. Often times, Hispanic entrepreneurs are operating their businesses and providing for their families and don’t have the time to volunteer for these positions. “It hasn’t really been pushed in the community,” Anton said. “Now it is, because the community recognizes the importance of Hispanic representatives and elected officials.” Anton said it’s important for leaders and businesses to look at the demographics and “embrace” that the Hispanic population will become the majority population in the near future. “Instead of fighting or ignoring, let’s start embracing our neighbors and figure out how to work together,” Anton said.
See Solution, pg. 2
Worship in a church of your choice Call 512-268-7862 to join the church directory today.
Sunset Canyon Baptist Church 8:45 AM
Sunday Morning
11:00 AM
Sunday Worship
5:45 PM
Wednesday Meal
6:30 PM
Wed TouchPoint
A Family of Faith...
SCBC Preschool Children Ministries Youth Ministries Family Ministries
www.sunsetcanyonchurch.org
(512) 894-0480
4000 E. HWY 290
St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church Mass Schedule
Rev. Charlie
Spanish Mass Sunday: 1:30 p.m.
corner of RR 12 & Post Oak in Dripping Springs
Garza, pastor Saturday: 5 p.m. Located at the Sunday: 8:15 a.m., 11 a.m., 5 p.m.
512-858-5667
www.stmartindp.org
Page 4
News-Dispatch
Thursday, June 29, 2017
Sports
PHOTOS BY MOSES LEOS III
Tiger football returns for 7-on-7
The Dripping Springs Tiger football team’s quest for College Station and the Texas 7-on-7 state tournament began and ended at Lake Travis High during the Lake Travis State Qualifying Tournament last week. The event, which was rescheduled from the start of the summer due to weather, had Dripping Springs paired with Waco Midway, Copperas Cove and Austin High in their pool. Dripping Springs dropped its first game to Midway, but followed by defeating Cove and Austin in round robin play. Dripping Springs football will next be in action August 14 for the start of summer practices. Dripping Springs opens the 2017 season at home against Bastrop on Sept. 1. See more photos online at HaysNewsDispatch.com.
We Support the Tigers Is your business scoring with customers? We can help with the game plan. Reach thousands of potential customers in the News-Dispatch sports section every week. Call (512) 268-7862 or email ads@haysnewsdispatch.com for more information.
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Thursday, June 29, 2017
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Page 5
Education Sargent approved as principal for Rooster Springs SUBMITTED REPORT The Dripping Springs ISD Board of Trustees unanimously approved the recommendation of Mandy Sargent as principal of Rooster Springs Elementary at its June 26 meeting. Sargent has been
the school’s assistant principal for the past two years. Before becoming the assistant principal at Rooster Springs Elementary, Sargent was the district’s Coordinator for Learning and Innovation for two years. Previously, Sargent spent two years as an Edu-
cation Specialist at Region 13 following six years as an instructional strategist at Kyle Elementary in Hays CISD. She started her career in Round Rock ISD, where she taught seventh-grade math and fourth grade. “I have felt drawn
to the Rooster Springs Elementary community as a district employee, a parent and a community member,” said Sargent. “I believe in the vision of Dripping Springs ISD and am excited to work side by side with our staff and parents to continue to
move our campus forward. I am fully committed to the long-term success of this school and every one of our students, and am honored to be entrusted this opportunity.” Sargent earned her bachelor’s degree from Stephen F. Austin University
(Interdisciplinary Studies) and her master’s degree (Educational Leadership) from Texas State University. Sargent will assume her new role immediately. Steps will be taken to fill the RSE assistant position she is vacating.
Charter vs. public schools: Who wins? Who loses? Editor’s note: Earlier this month, officials with IDEA Public Schools, a south Texas charter school system, announced plans to build a 110,000 square foot, $20 million facility on Goforth Road in Kyle. The campus is expected to serve 1,400 students. Our story this week focuses on the Katherine Anne Porter School in Wimberley and how they operate as one of the few charter schools in Hays County.
BY MOSES LEOS III
F
or the better part of 23 years, Coni Wilson has operated in the business of education. While working at a charter school in Colorado “she fell in love” with alternative schools. Since then, Wilson, who is now the superintendent of the Katherine Anne Porter School (KAPS) in Wimberley, has supported the charter school movement as a way to offer parents and students a choice. But she also believes the campus isn’t in direct competition with area school districts, or IDEA Public Schools, which are eyeing a possible new campus in Kyle. “I believe (KAPS) can serve a unique population in a way where there is enough of the pie to go around,” Wilson said. “I like to think from the perspective of abundance, rather than scarcity.”
COURTESY PHOTO
Katherine Anne Porter School students take part in a cleanup along Cypress Creek. Charter schools often choose a unique aspect of education on which to focus.
WHAT EXACTLY ARE CHARTER SCHOOLS? A charter school, Wilson said, is a contracted campus with the state that differs from the traditional independent school district (ISD). Charter schools such as KAPS, a liberal arts focused alternative high school that serves seven counties, including Hays, must “prove” how they’re
different from ISDs, Wilson said. KAPS programs center on the arts and creative thought. The school’s programs focus on music, traditional art courses and theater, and the school partners with the EmilyAnn Theater in Wimberley. Generally, charter schools also offer smaller class size ratios than typical public schools.
Tiger musician earns honors at Sam Houston SUBMITTED REPORT
A
Dripping Springs High wind ensemble member earned co-outstanding soloist honors at the Sam Houston State University Conservatory Camp last week in Huntsville. Lettie Thomas Hastings, a Dripping Springs High junior, was named as a co-recipent of the outstanding soloist award, which was also given to cellist Kyle Victor, of Houston. Nine musicians took part in the solo competition at the camp. Hastings earned the award after playing “Arabeske No. 18” by Robert Shuman on the piano. She then played her solo
PHOTO COURTESY OF KATHI THOMAS
Tiger flautist Lettie Thomas Hastings displays her award for co-outstanding soloist for her piano performance at Sam Houton State University Conservatory Camp.
at the final performance of the camp.
In May, Hastings earned first divisions at the UIL State Solo and Ensemble competition for her solos on both the piano and flute. She is the only student from Dripping Springs to take two solos to state. Hastings, who studies piano at the Blue Frog School of Music, will perform at the CPC Thursday Noonday Concert Series, which will be held July 20 at Central Presbyterian Church in Austin. Hastings is a member of the Dripping Springs Tiger marching band and plays synthesizer on the field and flute in the stands. She also plays flute in the Tiger wind ensemble.
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At KAPS, the average class size is 14 students, with the total school population fluctuating between 160 and 170 students. Students who attend run the gamut from the extremely gifted and talented to those who struggle in school, Wilson said. Charter schools differ from private schools as they don’t charge tuition
and are open for anyone to attend. Charter schools are also subject to Texas Education Agency (TEA) accountability standards for academics and finances. However, KAPS regulates how many students they take in per year. Amy Crowell, communications director at KAPS, said if there are more students who apply than they can
accommodate, the school must conduct a random lottery to meet their numbers. Wilson said teachers “seek us out” as they want a little more freedom in the classrooms. Charter schools allow teachers to have flexibility for “blended learning,” which
CHARTER SCHOOLS, 6
Page 6
News-Dispatch
Thursday, June 29, 2017
Out of the ordinary
Local restauranteurs find success with adventurous appetites BY SAMANTHA SMITH
T
ake a trip along U.S. Highway 290 in Dripping Springs and one may come across an oasis of creative culinary offerings. Within the last decade, residents and visitors alike have shown support of a changing food movement within the city, as local foodies today are now offering menu items that have a little more flair than the normal. As a result, many businesses are starting to recognize the change and are now stepping up their game to meet the taste of residents. Pig Pen Bar-B-Q, a food trailer off Highway 290 in Dripping Springs, chose to present a more “upscale” version of barbecue than what people are accustomed to. Items such as the stick-sweet candied bacon is one example of what the business offers to its clientele. “People are looking for barbecue that’s a step up,” Lisa Lerma, co-owner of Pig Pen BBQ, said, “They care about presentation and the quality of the ingredients.” Shawn Johnson, owner of Dripping Wings, a food trailer also on Highway 290, said since he opened the business in February of this year, business is “going really good and we’re really excited.”
Johnson opened the funky wings food trailer to share his love of wings with a culinary twist. Adventurous items in-
clude the use of habanero peppers, Jamaican jerk seasoning and seasoned edamame. “We try to bring stuff that you wouldn’t normally find around here,” Johnson said. One culinary destination that’s not only changed the palates of residents and visitors, but has also altered the area’s restaurant culture is Crepe
Crazy. The business, located in a small house at the corner of Highway 290 and Sportsplex Drive, was opened in 2014 by the Giterman family, who emigrated from Russia. Sergei Giterman, one of the owners, dreamed of owning a business even though he and his family are deaf, according to a 2015 Austin American-Statesman article. Giterman found the location in Dripping Springs and soon opened the business, which offers savory crepe recipes found across Europe. Alyssa Galloway, an employee at the Rolling in Thyme and Dough Café on 290, said residents want to enjoy their dining experience in more of a European way, instead of the more traditional American fast food mentality. Galloway said owner Fabienne Bollom, a native of Belgium, opened the European style café 11 years ago. Since that time, Bollom expanded the small space from a single dining room and a small kitchen to an extended dining area, outside tables and a larger kitchen. European dishes such as traditional boeuf borguignon and tomato basil tarts are on the menu. “People really like this place because we use produce from our own garden and we provide a more relaxed ambience,” Galloway said.
PHOTOS BY SAMANTHA SMITH
Above: A customer displays a treat from Dripping Springs food trailer Voodoo Ice. At left (top to bottom) are treats offered at Crepe Crazy, Pig Pen BBQ and Voodoo Ice.
“People are looking for barbecue that’s a step up ... They care about presentation and the quality of the ingredients.” –Lisa Lerma, co-owner of Pig Pen BBQ in Dripping Springs
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COURTESY PHOTO
Above are VASE (Visual Arts Scholastic Event) students from the Katherine Anne Porter school.
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Charter Schools
News-Dispatch
Continued from pg. 5
equates to more one-onone instruction. “If a teacher can build a relationship with a student, it can make a difference.” Wilson said. According to the TEA website, teachers at open-enrollment charter schools must have at least a bachelors degree. Those who teach bilingual education or special education also must have certification with the state. Schools can also set additional parameters for teacher certification requirements. “In terms of requirements for teachers, we do prefer that our teachers have a state teacher’s certification,” Crowell said. “Most of our teachers are certified in several areas.”
HOW CAN CHARTER SCHOOLS AFFECT PUBLIC SCHOOLS? One possible effect charter schools could
have on public schools is a possible drop in state funding. Public schools are partially funded by average student attendance. Tim Savoy, Hays CISD public information officer, said Hays CISD’s growth would be able to offset the number of students who may attend charter schools. Savoy said IDEA public schools, which is planning a $20 million campus in Kyle, has reached out to district leaders regarding some of their plans. IDEA has not made a formal presentation to the school board. Even if IDEA pulled students just from Hays CISD, the district would still have a net gain of students. “If there were large numbers of students leaving the district, we could start to see an impact,” Savoy said. Other opportunities could include possible
partnerships between public and charter schools. Examples include sharing facilties, such as athletic stadiums or performing arts centers, Savoy said. With the added competition, charter schools may also be a way for public school districts to improve education, which hasn’t changed much since 1900, Savoy said. The challenge for school districts is updating education standards to meet innovative and technological advancements of the 21st Century. At the end of the day, public schools must reflect the needs of the students and parents. Ultimately, Savoy said having choices, no matter public, charter or private, makes everyone stronger. “We have to perform and provide an education that parents want and is good for the student,” Savoy said.
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Thursday, June 29, 2017
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Page 7
Public Notice
Have a safe and happy Fourth of July!
FM150 CHARACTER PLAN
PUBLIC MEETING
from the News-Dispatch
Tuesday, July 11, 6-8 p.m. Dripping Springs High School - Cafeteria 940 US 290, Dripping Springs, TX 78620
The News-Dispatch office will be closed Tuesday, July 4 to celebrate Independence Day. The News-Dispatch will not be published on July 6.
Attend the public meeting to review the concepts and alignments proposed for the FM 150 Character Plan from Arroyo Ranch Road outside of Kyle to RM 12 in Dripping Springs. The meeting is an open house format with a 10-minute welcome at 6:15. If you are unable to attend, meeting materials will be posted online and you may share input via email. www.improvefm150.com — (512) 533-9100 Ext #104
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Statewide Classifieds
Employment INTERESTED IN REAL ESTATE?
Real Estate Administrative Assistant , Dripping Springs office, 30-40 hours per week. 1 week paid vacation after 1st year. Computer skills a must, energetic, organized, self-starter, independent worker, opportunity for advancement, Real estate license is a big plus, qualified only need apply. Send your resume to hiring@stanberry.com.
Wanted
See your ad here!
WE BUY OIL, GAS, & MINERAL RIGHTS
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including Non-Participating Royalty Interest (NPRI)
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CALL TODAY: 806.620.1422
LOBO MINERALS, LLC PO Box 1800 • Lubbock, TX 79408-1800
LoboMineralsLLC@gmail.com
Service Directory Dirt
Automotive
Dirt Cheap
Central Garage, LLC Complete Auto Repair
(512) 894-4114 or (512) 858-4252 1 20 Hwy 290 W Mon-Fri, 8-5:30 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 Danny Hubbard
Tractor Work Available
Specializing in Country Driveways
Rick-Rob Trucking 512- 858-7952 www.rick-rob.com
robinnds@aol.com
Roofing
Pool Service Over 10 years of experience Keith Miller, owner One Time & Weekly Cleanings Drain & Cleans Pressure Washing Full Service Repairs HIGH TIDE Pool Replastering POOL SERVICE FREE ESTIMATES HIGHTIDEPOOLSERVICE@YAHOO.COM HIGHTIDEPOOLSERVICE.COM
Loam • Topsoil • Sand • Gravel • Roadbase • Asphalt Millings • Granite • Compost Mix
512-965-3465
Vocalist
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Absolutely No Money Down! See Website for Special Offers Claims Specialist on Staff Experience H Honesty H Integrity www.WranglerGutterProtection.com WranglerRoofing@aol.com
Window Treatments Beautiful Blinds, Shades, Draperies & Shutters Custom window treatments at affordable prices!
Graber, Hunter Douglas, Norman & more.
Voice Lessons Praise & WorshiP eVents Weddings/FuneraLs
Keren Hixon, Vocalist • 817-542-8813
Low prices with lifetime guarantees and fast professional installation.
Call 512-847-8970
for free consultation & price quote.
www.MadeinTheShadeofwimberley.com
Landscaping
DANIEL
STONE & LANDSCAPING SUPPLIES -We DeliverGRASS: St. Augustine, Buffalo, Bermuda, Tifway CHOPPED ROCK DRYSTACK MULCH
PATIO ROCK GRAVEL SAND
12015 Hwy 290 W Cedar Valley, Austin
M-F 8-5 Sat. 9-3
FLAGSTONE RIVER ROCK LOAM
512-288-8488
Shoe Repair
Lawn & Landscaping
LAWN SERVICE Offering competitive pricing and superior service in the Manchaca, Buda, and Kyle area since 2010
Takin g ca of A re LL NEED LAWN S so you can play .
Landscaping • Mowing • Trimming • Edging Debris Removal • Flower Bed Maintenance Call Jesse Reyna at 512-788-2180 or email apa6207@sbcglobal.net
Tree Service QUALITY BOOT & SHOE REPAIR AS WELL AS PURSE AND LUGGAGE REPAIR
AustinShoeHospital.com
WORLD’S LARGEST SHOE REPAIR COMPANY 10 locations in Central Texas including: Highway 290 & Nutty Brown Road • 512-827-3398 Highway 290 West in Oak Hill • 512-288-6386 Bee Cave in Lakeway • 512-263-4630
Lees Trees 30+ years in the Hill Country
Firewood • Pruning • Removal • Chipping Planting • Cedar Posts • Bulk Mulch Free Assessments & Estimates • Insured
Marcus Lees Affordable Oak Wilt Treatment (512) 858-4018 by TTH Inc. TDA #270421 leestrees@vownet.net (512) 921-4661
Schedule ball moss treatment for March
JOIN THE SERVICE DIRECTORY! Only $25 a week to run in the News-Dispatch, Hays Free Press and Hays County Echo. Cal Leon at (512) 827-7961 or send an email to ads@haysnewsdispatch.com to join today. (13 week minimum)
Page 8
News-Dispatch
Thursday, June 29, 2017
Tomato Roundup Continued from pg. 1
business once had a soil yard. Goole said the genesis of the event was avid tomato growers wanting to share their love of tomatoes with everyone else. Tomatoes was the focus as its the most popular produce item to grow. One of the most avid in the area was the late Harley Clark, a retired district judge and the person credited with creating the “Hook ’em Horns” hand signal for the University of Texas at Austin. Clark was also a big tomato grower and regularly frequented the Natural Gardener’s soil yard, which was near his home, Goole said. It was Clark who had the idea of holding the festival to help people understand how to grow tomatoes and to gain knowledge about the different varieties. The inaugural tomato festival was held in 2011. From there, the festival blossomed, with attendance growing every year. Laurel Robertson, manager of the Dripping Springs Farmer’s Market, said the city’s Farmer’s Market adopted the festival soon after the soil yard closed. The event, which was held at Founder’s Park, was moved to the Triangle along U.S 290 as popularity grew. “It’s the biggest tomato festival in Central Texas, at least,” Robertson said. Participants in the event include a mix of full-time farmers and home gardeners. What they bring to the festival is a color mix of tomatoes of varying sizes and shapes, ranging from dark heirloom tomatoes, to small, sweet cherries, to ripe romas. What comes in, however, varies on the vagaries of farming and gardening, Robertson said. Robertson said the biggest factor among tomatoes is flavor, texture
what he taught me to do,” Voges said. Gardening has also spread into the next generation. Gabby Robles, 10, of Dripping Springs, claimed the Prettiest Tomato blue ribbon Saturday. Dennis Robles, Gabby’s father, said his family started an urban garden at the house to teach his children about
time investment and responsibility. For Gabby, putting her hands into something and “not just buying (produce) from the store” got her started in her own organic garden. Tomatoes grown at the Robles garden are used for salads, salsas and are eaten raw. Learning how to tend to the garden is
something Dennis believes his children will gravitate to for the rest of their lives. “It’s a good thing to know about because I’m of younger age and I can teach people about how to grow many things other than tomatoes,” Gabby Robles said. “I can show people what I can do and how I’ve been taught.”
PHOTOS BY MOSES LEOS III
Above, Aaliyah Koehn, of Pflugerville, reaches over to sample some small tomatoes at the Tomato Roundup. Below, volunteer Cecilia Allen cuts up an heirloom tomato for competition judges to sample at the annual Tomato Roundup.
HELPING OUR NEIGHBORS RETURN TO HEALTH AND INDEPENDENCE DEER CREEK OF WIMBERLEY HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED FOR OVER
30 YEARS. OFFERING SCENIC VIEWS OF THE HILL
COUNTRY AND OF OUR SERENE ENCLOSED COURTYARD.
and mouth appeal, as opposed to size and color. Anna Voges, owner of Voges Gardens, said tomatoes are like wine for some people. One of the biggest differences between store-bought tomatoes and homegrown is the flavor, Voges said. She felt grocery store tomatoes are flavorless, while homegrown can be sweet or acidic. “Everyone has different tastes, so surely someone can find some tomatoes here they like,” Voges said. “It’s all on the taste and what you like to eat.” The event also one way of showing the comeback of the small, diversified
family farm that produces a variety of local produce, Dromgoole said. He said such operations keep money here, which is “an important thing.” “We can be proud of the family farm for coming back and supplying everything we need locally,” Dromgoole said. “That’s the beauty of a small farm coming back.” Voges, who grew up in Boerne, helped her dad produce crops of up to 3,000 tomatoes. While she hated growing tomatoes at an early age, she took up her father’s craft later in life. “I had a continued love of tomatoes and I do
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dripping springs
4th of july fireworks!
FIRE
IN THE
SKY
J U LY 4 , 2 017
DRIPPING SPRINGS R ANCH PARK FIREWORKS BEGIN AT DARK, AROUND 9 PM FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
JOIN US BEFORE THE SHOW FOR A FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE
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Pol. Ad. Pd. For by Committee to Elect Jason Isaac, 100 Commons Rd #7-125, Dripping Springs, TX 78620. Treas. Carrie Isaac