Bike camp helps kids with special needs
‘Tiny Mites’ comes to Hill Country
page 3
Fourth of July snapshots page 8
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News-Dispatch Volume XXXVII No. 40 • Serving Western Hays County, Texas since 1982
75¢ Thursday, July 13, 2017
EPA greenlights Dripping Springs discharge permit STAFF REPORT Citing resolution of potential environmental concerns, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has withdrawn its interim objection to Dripping Springs’ proposed wastewater discharge permit. The decision comes after the EPA deter-
mined the city’s proposal “successfully meets the environmental governing body’s rigorous standards,” according to a city press release. In December 2016, the EPA filed the interim letter of objection citing six issues in Dripping Springs’ proposed permit, which is meant to expand the city’s wastewater
The EPA’s letter also stated a wastewater facility would “contribute significantly fewer pollutants, nutrients” to Onion Creek than individual septic systems, which are used by homes in the area. system. The letter stated it wasn’t clear how the city’s permit conformed with guidelines and require-
ments of the Clean Water Act. The News-Dispatch reported some concerns the EPA had regarding the phosphorous levels of
potential treated effluent that could be discharged into Onion Creek. Dripping Springs in October 2015 filed a
Construction begins on Roger Hanks extension
PHOTO BY MOSES LEOS III
The Roger Hanks Parkway connection will eventually connect U.S. 290 with the new Tiger Stadium in Dripping Springs.
STAFF REPORT Construction has begun on a roadway that will eventually connect Roger Hanks Parkway at U.S. 290 to Ranch Road 12 Lee Lewis Construction, Inc. began work on the first phase of the Roger Hanks Parkway project July 5. The first phase of the project would extend Roger Hanks Parkway from U.S. 290, across Old Highway 290, and connecting to the southwest
parking area of the new Tiger Stadium on the campus of Dripping Springs High. With construction ongoing, drivers can expect the permanent closure of the east end of Old Highway 290. Motorists in need of access to homes or businesses in this area will have access only from the intersection of U.S. 290 and Meadow Oaks. The Roger Hanks Parkway extension is the result of
several parties working together to see the project come to fruition. “This project would not be possible without the collaborative efforts of the Dripping Springs Independent School District, the City and private land owners,” said Bill Foulds, Dripping Springs mayor pro tem. Dripping Springs ISD Superintendent Bruce Gearing said the district is proud to be
a partner. “This first phase of the project will allow more efficient ingress and egress from the new competition stadium. We are grateful to the other partners in this endeavor,” Gearing said. Weather permitting, construction is scheduled to be completed mid-September. Please exercise caution when driving through the area of construction.
State law outlaws texting while driving BY MOSES LEOS III After several attempts in past legislative sessions, Texas lawmakers in May were able to pass a bill outlawing use of electronic devices while driving statewide. House Bill 62, authored by State Rep. Tom Craddick (R-Midland) and sponsored by State Sen. Judith Zaffirini (D-Laredo), was signed into law June 6 by Gov. Greg Abbott and will become law Sept. 1. Under the new law, which
Those who are prosecuted in a fatality accident where it was determined texting while driving was a factor could be subject to one year in jail and up to a $4,000 fine. would make using an electronic device while driving a Class A misdemeanor, drivers will be cited for driving their vehicle while they are using a device to make a phone call or sending and receiving text messages. Exceptions would be for those
who use hands-free devices, such as a bluetooth headset, or use their phones as a global positioning system (GPS) or making an emergency phone call. According to language in the bill, those who are prosecuted
in a fatality accident where it was determined texting while driving was a factor could be subject to one year in jail and up to a $4,000 fine. But the bill also would nullify existing texting while driving ordinances passed by local municipalities in the state. According to the Texas Tribune, more than 50 cities in Texas, including Buda and Kyle, have enacted their own texting while driving laws.
DISTRACTED DRIVING, 6
Hays County to outsource prisoners to two new locations BY SAMANTHA SMITH Continued capacity issues at the Hays County Jail led county leaders to approve a pair of interlocal agreements to potentially outsource prisoners to two new locations. Per the agreements, which were approved by a 3-0 vote, Hays County would be able to send prisoners it cannot house to McLennan County and, if needed, Limestone County. Hays County Pct. 3 Commissioner Will Conley and Pct. 2 Commissioner Mark Jones were absent when the vote was taken. Captain Julie Villalpando, the Hays County Jail administrator, said the Hays County Jail is at capacity and needs to relocate inmates on an as-needed basis
Due to capacity issues, the county transfers 2,600 prisoners annually to other county jails, which include Burnet and Caldwell counties, Villalpando said. until expansion of the current facility is complete. The 1-year agreement stipulates that Hays County will pay $49 per day, or $17,885 annually, per inmate to McLennan County, with a total number of transferred inmates not to exceed 100. McLennan County reserves the right to refuse or return inmates if needed. The terms of the agreement with Limestone County have not yet been ironed out, Villalpando said. Only
McLennan will be used at this time, with the possibility of sending inmates to Limestone if needed. Villalpando said in an emailed interview the agreement with McLennan could last a minimum of two years or longer, depending on the capacity conditions at the Hays County facility. The county’s facility, built in 1989, only has 311 available beds to house prisoners. Due
JAIL, 2
Texas Pollutant Disposal Elimination System (TPDES) permit with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to expand the city’s wastewater system to 995,000 gallons per day. The permit called for the potential to discharge treated effluent into Wal-
PERMIT, 6
Ballot system still up in air BY SAMANTHA SMITH Calls for a paper ballot election system continue from some Hays County residents, even as the county’s Election Equipment Advisory Committee recommended purchasing electronic equipment. Disgruntled residents voiced their concerns June 27 regarding the committee’s recommendation to purchase the Hart Verity Touch voting machines due to the lack of a paper audit capability. The recommendation went to Hays County commissioners July 11, which held a public workshop on the matter.
VOTING, 7
LAGNIAPPE Burn ban back on
The heat is on and so is the burn ban. Earlier this week, Hays County officials officially reinstated the burn ban due to continuously windy conditions and low humidity in the county. Additionally, county officials said the number of grass fires and house fires have risen throughout the county. Grills with lids are allowed to be used during the burn ban, but burn barrels are banned. Violators can face a fine of up to $500.
Town Hall with U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett All citizens are invitied to join Congressman Lloyd Doggett for a town hall meeting on Sunday, July 16 at 2 p.m. in the Great Hall at the First United Methodist Church at 1300 Lavaca Street in Kyle. “So much is at risk with possible cuts of hundreds of billions of dollars from Medicaid,” Doggett said. “Come share your stories and hear my update on what is happening in Washington regarding efforts to repeal the Affordable Care Act.”
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 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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Texas Crossword Solution See puzzle on pg. 3
Thursday, July 13, 2017
Trial set for Dripping Springs man who threatened mass shooting STAFF REPORT A Dripping Springs man indicted in March for allegedly threatening to conduct a mass shooting at Fort Hood has been found competent to stand trial, according to reports. A July 31 trial date has now been set for Thomas Anthony Chestnut, 28, of Dripping Springs, who entered a plea of not guilty to Federal Magistrate Jeffrey Manske, according to a report from KWKT-TV in Waco. Manske’s decision to set the trial date came after he received a 16page report from doctors informing him Chestnut was competent to stand trial, according to the report. In March, a Federal grand jury in Waco indicted Chestnut on one count of interstate communica-
Chestnut allegedly threatened to go to Fort Hood, kill the sergeant, take hostages, start a mass killing spree and then kill himself if he was not allowed to speak with someone of rank. tions with threat to injure after he allegedly made threats to kill individuals at Fort Hood. If convicted, Chestnut faces up to five years in federal prison. According to court records, on February 22, 2017, Chestnut made verbal threats when he called and spoke with a sergeant at the U.S. Army 1st Calvary Division at Fort Hood, according to a Department of Justice press release. Chestnut allegedly
threatened to go to Fort Hood, kill the sergeant, take hostages, start a mass killing spree and then kill himself if he was not allowed to speak with someone of rank. Chestnut then spoke with a major and advised that he was a former soldier wrongly accused of a crime and eventually released from prison in 2016, according to the release. In 2014, Chestnut was convicted of one count of sexual assault relating to
an August 2012 incident at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio. However, an appellate court overturned the verdict in December 2014 citing evidence as “factually insufficient,” according to a report in the Killeen Daily Herald. Chestnut allegedly said if he was unable to speak with a U.S. Army III Corps Commander or a Sergeant Major regarding back pay, or did not receive the money he believed was owed to him, that he planned to shoot soldiers at Fort Hood. “Threats of this nature are taken seriously,” said United States Attorney Richard L. Durbin, Jr. in a March statement. FBI agents arrested Chestnut without incident on February 24 and he has remained in federal custody since.
County submits annual grant application for bulletproof vests BY SAMANTHA SMITH
New bulletproof vests for Hays County Sheriff’s Office deputies could be on the horizon after commissioners authorized submission of a grant application for the items. The application, which was approved by a 3-0 vote June 27, is part of a grant from the U.S. Department of Justice Bulletproof Vest Partnership Program (BVP). Commissioners WIll Conley and Mark Jones were absent when the vote was taken. “We want our officers to be protected,” said Bert Cobb, Hays County judge. He continued by explaining that the county applies for the grant every year. The grant program provides a reimbursement for 50 percent of the cost of each vest and
The total cost of the new and replacement vests is $36,750 for up to 49 vests, with each vest costing $750.
the county must pay the remainder of the cost, according to county documents. The total cost of the new and replacement vests is $36,750 for up to 49 vests, with each vest costing $750. If the county is awarded the grant, it will cover $18,375 of the cost. According to Hays County Grants Administrator Jeff Hauff, even though the county ap-
plies for the grant every year, it doesn’t necessarily mean they are awarded the grant. “The county does apply annually for funding to provide for bulletproof vests through the Bulletproof Vest Partnership program…but that does not necessarily mean we receive the grant from this program,” Hauff said in an emailed response. Hauff said the BVP program supplies funds for new bulletproof vests to law enforcement agencies all over the country. Since the demand for the vests is high, there is a shortage of funds within the program. “Lately funding has been allocated to jurisdictions of less than 100,000 population due to both the shortage of funding within the program and the nationwide
demand for these funds,” Hauff said. Bulletproof vests for county officers have a life expectancy of five years, while vests are upgraded in the department based on need, Hauff said. Hays County officials can turn to other programs for assistance if needed. “We have also applied through the Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) program, also administered by DOJ, to help defray the costs of the vests to the County,” Hauff said. Hauff said the county’s half of the funding requirement would come from the General Fund. When acquiring new bulletproof vests, “upgrades to the armoring materials are taken into account,” in order to better protect officers from the advanced weaponry they may come into contact with, Hauff said.
Jail: Hays to outsource to McLennan, Limestone Continued from pg. 1
The county’s facility, built in 1989, only has 311 available beds to house prisoners. Due to capacity issues, the county transfers 2,600 prisoners annually to other county jails, which include Burnet and Caldwell counties, Villalpando said. In November, voters passed a $106.4 million bond for an emergency operations center and a jail expansion. The expansion, however, isn’t
Due to capacity issues, the county transfers 2,600 prisoners annually to other county jails, which include Burnet and Caldwell counties, Villalpando said. expected to be complete until 2020. “We currently have inmates in other counties, so we would continue
to monitor our inmate count and send only what we need to McLennan,” Villalpando said. Villalpando said in
addition to sending inmates to various nearby counties, law enforcement agencies try to keep the jail population down by cite and release and pretrial services programs. “All agencies in Hays County already practice a cite and release program for those allowed by law,” Villalpando said. “Also we have a pre-trial services program that keeps the lesser offenses moving and out of the jail.”
Master Gardeners on the Porch
Dripping Springs Fair and Rodeo
Blanco River/ Onion Creek Water Forum
Lagniappe
Continued from pg. 1 To RSVP for this event, please call Doggett’s Austin office at (512) 916-5921 or email lloyd. doggett@mail.house.gov, using the subject line “RSVP to July 16 Town Hall.” RSVPs are not required but appreciated.
Leaf 'em alone. Don’t trim your tree limbs near power lines. pec.coop/safety
Dog Days of Summer Picnic
Picnic with PAWS at this fundraiser on July 12 from 6-9 p.m. at Hog Heaven, 491 Hog Hollow Road in Dripping Springs. Enjoy great food, drinks, live music, games, a raffle, silent auction & pet adoptions. Proceeds from the event benefit the homeless pets at PAWS Shelter of Central Texas. Buy tickets and see more info at www.pawsshelter.org/ dogdays.
It’s time to plan, prune and plant! Bring your gardening questions to the Hays County Master Gardeners at the Dripping Springs Community Library on July 13 from 3-6 p.m. Hays County Master Gardeners are a part of the state-wide Texas Master Gardener Volunteer Program. Each certified Master Gardener completes 50 hours of formal training and 50 hours of volunteer service during their training. If you are interested in this program, check the library calendar for other free events for gardeners. RSVP to adultservices@ dscl.org. The gardeners meet the first and third Thursday of each month at the library.
The 6th Annual Dripping Springs Fair and Rodeo will return to Dripping Springs Ranch Park and Event Center (DSRP) July 20-23 with thrilling rodeo action, live entertainment, a steer show, a Mutton Bustin’ Shootout, good food and drinks, kids’ activities, and family fun. Hosted by Dripping Springs Ag Boosters Association and the City of Dripping Springs, this annual tradition has transformed into a top notch Cowboys Professional Rodeo Association (“CPRA”) Rodeo and fundraiser to support area 4-H Club and Future Farmers of America (FFA) youth, who are involved in agricultural projects and programs.
Meet your neighbors at this forum discussing the Blanco River and Onion Creek at the Wimberley Community Center, 14068 Ranch Road 12 in Wimberley on Thursday, July 13. Exhibits and a meet and greet will begin at 9 a.m., and presentsations by local water experts will begin at 10 a.m. For more information contact David Glenn, VAGabond Chief, Hays Trinity Aquifer Volunteer Advisory Group at david. glenn@vownet.net or (512) 557-3595. Do you know a free event to be included in Lagniappe? Send an email to christine@ haysfreepress.com.
Thursday, July 13, 2017
www.HaysNewsDispatch.com
Obituary EASTERLING Born in Dublin Ireland in 1930, Helena Clare Easterling Foley of Wimberley, TX passed away unexpectedly on her 87th birthday, Tuesday, June 27th, 2017. Living with her family in England, Clare survived air raids, curfews and food rationing during the bombing of London and immigrated to the United States after World War II when she was 17. While living in Jackson, MS, Clare met and married career Air Force CMS Nevil Ward Easterling and traveled the world while raising their 4 children, settling in Buda, TX. Clare is remembered by many friends from her 22 year employment at HEB Bakeries in Austin and then at the Kyle Thrift Store. She is preceded in death by her husband Ward, daughter Paula, nephew Dean and life partner Lou Bonin. Clare is survived by her son Mark Easterling of Austin, daughter Susan Alexander and her husband Cliff of Wimberley, son John Easterling and his wife Karen of San Antonio. Clare was also very close to and survived by her grand-children and great-grandchildren; Nevil Easterling of Austin, Chad and Lee Ann Young (Hudson and twins Holden & Hondo) of Wimberley, Ben and Tracy Young (Jaci & Jenna) of Wimberley, Rodney Young of Buda, Cory and Tanee Young (Stockton) of San Marcos, Cliff “Bubba” Alexander Jr. and wife Joann (Taylor, Morgan, Sawyer and Braxton) of Kyle, Brandy Alexander (Ian and Shiloh)of Austin. Clare is also survived by sister Gerry Frasier of Jackson, MS, nieces Sandy & Colleen, brother Ronald “Ronnie” Foley and sister-in-law Sarah of Jackson, MS, nephews Carl & David and brother Harold “Harry” of Maida Vale, London, England. Clare will be lovingly remembered by special friends Dana Scott, Suzanne Wayne, and Cindy & Carlon Abshire and Clare’s best friend, traveling companion and gambling “partner-incrime” Trini Conroy. We all will remember Clare’s gracious dispo-
Bike camp offers independence to local kids with Down Syndrome
sition, her generosity with family and friends and her quick witted sense of humor. She was particularly proud of her great-grandchildren, who adored her. Clare created a loving, active and lively family who will remain close and carry on her legacy. Clare’s family received visitors and held a funeral service at Thomason Funeral Home in Wimberley on Friday, June 30, 2017. Interment will take place at Kyle Cemetery at a later date. For more information, call Thomason Funeral Home at (512) 847-2226 or visit www. thomasonfuneralhome. com to sign the guest book.
BY TIMOTHY STUCKEY
A
n event meant to give freedom and independence to those with Down Syndrome will make its way to Dripping Springs for the first time later this month. The Down Syndrome Association of Central Texas (DSACT) will host its inaugural fiveday bicycle event at Dripping Springs Ranch Park. The event, which is open to students ages eight and up, runs from July 31 to August 4. “It helps teach independence and promotes activity,” said Phil West, publicist for DSACT. “Bike riding is important for any kid, and children with Down Syndrome are just like any other kids.” Special needs children and their families can expect around 150 locally trained volunteers to attend to their various needs and questions during the event. Campers will attend 75 minute bike training sessions every day in order for trained workers, known as “bike technicians,” to educate the campers on the proper and safe methods to handle a bicycle. The methods of instruction vary
HOHMANN Marvin Eugene Hohmann, 77, of Wimberley, Texas (formerly of Dripping Springs for 40 years) passed away on July 3, 2017 after a courageous battle with COPD. He was born in San Antonio, Texas on March 26, 1940 to Laurel E. Hohmann and Ione Calhoun Hohmann. After serving in the U. S. Army at Ft. Carson, Colorado, he and his family returned to central Texas. He worked for many years for Mason’s Exxon in Austin, Texas, and later retired in 2002 from the Hays County Road Department. Marvin is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Kay Hohmann, daughter Kimberley Kay Bishop and husband Rick Bishop of Buda, TX and daughter Bobbi Michelle Hohmann and husband Terry Powis of Atlanta, Georgia; grandson Brandon Bishop and wife Bethany; granddaughters Shelby Bishop and Lilah Powis and great-grandson Parker Bishop. He is also survived by his sister Arline Crippen, brother Wayne Hohmann and wife Kathy, sister Sharon Felps, and many nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death were his parents and granddaughter Kayla Brooke Bishop. A memorial service was held Saturday, July 8 at the First Baptist Church, Dripping Springs, Texas. Condolences may be sent to: www.harrellfuneralhomes.com.
Page 3
COURTESY PHOTO
Members of the Down Syndrome Association of Central Texas (DSACT) pose for a photo during a 2017 kayaking camp excursion.
depending on the child, ranging from one-onone to group sessions. While bikes are provided by the DSACT, the group encourages parents to bring bicycles from home in order to transition the student from tandemriding with bike technicians to feeling comfortable riding independently. DSACT was founded in 1991 with the goal of allowing children with Down Syndrome to lead full and enriched lives. Over the last 25 years, it has grown into a 5,000 member strong
More information on services provided by DSACT can be found at www.dsact.org
WHAT’S REQUIRED FOR DSACT CAMP?
• Camper must be at least 8 years old and be a member of DSACT with Down Syndrome • Camper must be able to walk without an assisstive device • Camper must be able to sidestep both sides • Camper must be able and willing to wear a properly fitted bike helmet • Camper must have a minimum inseam of 20” (measured from floor while rider is wearing sneakers) • Camper’s weight must not exceed 220 pounds
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Texas Crossword
organization that covers 13 Central Texas counties. Although registration for the upcoming event is full, DSACT offers many events and classes for children and their families to attend throughout the year, including performing arts classes, fitness programs and social groups available for children as young as two years old to full grown adults.
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
Summertime’s for the birds I
BY JERRY HALL
t’s summertime and birds need all the help they can get. This is a great time to offer some sort of water feature to our feathered friends, whether it be a simple basin of cool water or a fancy circulating fountain with pool. A plain, sturdy birdbath is hard to beat, just make sure it is heavy enough not to tip over easily. My own concrete birdbath is very sturdy. In fact, I recently saw a fox standing in it, lapping up water. Birds and deer also partake on a regular basis. What can you do to make summer a happy season for birds? Here are five tips: Keep your pet cat indoors. Cats love to kill birds, it’s just their natural instinct. Cut down on pesticide use and never use so-called neonicotinoids or “neonics,” as they are deadly to wildlife. Leave some grass un-mowed and tall for
PHOTO COURTESY OF JERRY HALL
Keep local birds cool this summer with a dish of water.
ground-nesting birds, and don’t clean up all brush piles since they provide excellent bird habitat. Keep your hummingbird feeders filled with fresh sugar-water. Be tolerant of bird nests around your home, even those mud daubs used by swallows. Many birds will be leaving in a few short weeks as fall brings cooler weather. Birds reward us with cheerful, tuneful songs and are beautiful in the bargain. The least we can do is set out a dish of water.
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, July 13, 2017
Sports
COURTESY PHOTO
Pop Warner athletes give handshakes and high-fives as they congratulate each other in a ceremonial post-game show of sportsmanship.
Youngsters hitting the grid, but not each other
Rookie tackle pilot program comes to Hill Country BY MOSES LEOS III Like many kids who grew up in Texas, football was a building block in the lives of Clint Friday, president of Dripping Springs Pop Warner (DSPW), and his coaching staff. All nine men learned teamwork and perseverance while playing Pop Warner football in their youth. Friday went on to a collegiate playing career at Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls. Friday hopes to instill those life lessons in Dripping Springs as part of a pilot program aimed at teaching young football players how to safely play the game. This fall, Hill Country Pop Warner, which DSPW is a member of, will be one of a handful of Pop Warner affiliated organizations that will conduct a “Tiny Mite” division for players aged 5 to 7. Tiny Mite, or rookie tackle, is an 8-on-8 version of football that’s played on a 50-yard field. Players, who must weigh no more than 75 pounds, play between the numbers. Friday said the condensed playing field, along with the number of players, helps slow the game down and potentially limit the possibility of an injury. “It’s going to be more kids just running and bumping into each other and having a good time,” Friday said. As part of the pilot program, USA Football has offered to train the DSPW coaches to cater to the Tiny Mite league. Friday said the focus is teaching the game safely to the younger athletes, as well as teaching better ways for coaches to intro-
COURTESY PHOTOS
Above: A Bowie Bulldog player sprints down the sideline as a member of the Four Points Vipers tries to chase him down. Inset: Members of the Austin Bowie Bulldog Pop Warner team raise a trophy in the air following a game played in the 2016 season.
“You have to teach kids to be tough, but to also be smart.” – Clint Friday, president of Dripping Springs Pop Warner
duce the game to younger children. Additionally, coaches will learn new drills and new terminology specific for the game. That would, in turn, help the coaches teach players how to tackle and block in a safer manner.
The biggest challenge for coaches is keeping players engaged, especially at that young of an age, Friday said. One way DSPW tries to maintain interest is using bags for tackling drills. Friday said DSPW doesn’t conduct much
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player-on-player contact in practice. Items such as a tackling wheel, a big foam wheel with padding that rolls like a tire, is implemented to show younger players the ways to
tackle. “It’s fun for the kids because it’s a wheel they can chase down and tackle,” Friday said. “They learn how to tackle with the shoulder and get their heads out of the
tackle.” The evolution of safety techniques at the younger levels of football is a far cry from days past, Friday said. In his youth, a culture of “being tough” was the mindset, with players at times playing through injury. As the game has evolved, so has awareness of potential repercussions from concussions and other injuries, said Friday. He added there is a fine line “between being tough and being stupid.” “You have to teach kids to be tough, but to also be smart,” Friday said. Friday said he is in favor of children playing the game, as equipment has made football much safer. He also believes the game “brought a lot out of me and myself in life in general” when it came to the life lessons learned. Friday tells parents it’s their choice on whether or not they allow their child to play. He believes playing the game at a younger age reduces the velocity seen with higher age groups. That could allow younger players to learn the proper way to tackle and grow up with the game. “If you’re going to play football, it’s safer to play younger than to play with older players,” Friday said.
Do Business Locally Texas hometown friendly bank
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401 E. Hwy 290W. P.O. Box 1243 Dripping Springs, TX 78620
Thursday, July 13, 2017
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Page 5
Education Dripping Springs ISD approves 2017-2018 budget BY TIMOTHY STUCKEY
Maintaining the current ad valorem tax rate was one of several highlights in Dripping Springs ISD’s Fiscal Year 2018 budget, which was approved unanimously by board trustees June 26. The budget, presented by Assistant Superintendent Elaine Cogburn, reflects the district’s practice of having revenues fund ongoing expenditures and limiting the amount of those expenditures in order to keep a balance. With this policy, the board prohibits exceeding beyond a two percent deficit of the proposed budget’s revenue. The goal of the policy, which was enacted in 2014, would prevent any potential deficit from draining the district’s fund balance below a threshold of four months of operating expenses. The total expenditure of the accepted budget comes to $76,496,069 which is spread among the general fund, debt service and child nutrition. However, the general fund faces a deficit of roughly 2 million dollars. General funding covers the revenues received from local taxes and entitlement from the state as well as expenditures for the district’s daily operations. Meanwhile, the district’s debt service budget will have a surplus of roughly $460,000, while the child nutrition budget will also face a deficit of $383,370. “The state’s portion of funding has dropped in recent years and the dis-
“The state’s portion of funding has dropped in recent years and the district’s recapture payment has increased, making budgeting more challenging for our district ... Our Board and administration are always cognizant of the importance of being efficient stewards of taxpayer money. The 2017-18 approved budget reflects the district’s continued growth and the opening of two new schools.” –Bruce Gearing, Dripping Springs ISD superintendent
Dripping Springs ISD’s budget by the numbers GENERAL FUND
Expenditures....................$58,947,199 Revenue...........................$56,836,771
DEBT SERVICE
Expenditures.................... $14,566,800 Revenue...........................$15,029,843
CHILD NUTRITION
Expenditures....................$2,983,070 Revenue...........................$2,596,700
trict’s recapture payment has increased, making budgeting more challenging for our district,” said Bruce Gearing, Dripping Springs ISD superintendent. “Our Board and administration are always cognizant of the importance of being efficient stewards of taxpayer money. The 2017-18 approved budget reflects the district’s continued growth and the opening of two new schools.”
Additionally, Gearing said the district was able to provide a cost-of-living increase for employees, maintain existing programs, and serve our students while maintaining the current tax rate. DSISD’s tax rate will remain at $1.52, with $1.17 going to maintenance and operations (M&O). The budget also highlighted several important developments for the district, including a pro-
jected student enrollment of 6,231, which was a 463 student increase over last year. Dripping Springs ISD had 95.5 employee position growth, a 2 percent average cost of living increase for employees and a contract extension for Gearing. In August 2017, the district will also be opening Sycamore Springs Elementary, the district’s fourth elementary school, and Sycamore Springs Middle School, the district’s second middle school, with the additional personnel and operating costs reflected in the recent budget. Dripping Springs ISD has consistently received strong ratings within financial accountability systems and currently carries one of the highest credit ratings of any school district in the state.
DSISD extends leader’s contract BY MOSES LEOS III
Prior to his hire, Gearing served as the Dripping Springs superintendent at MarISD leaders last month shall ISD and at Mount unanimously approved Pleasant ISD. to extend the “I sincerely contract of their appreciate leader. the support The Dripping of the Board Springs ISD of Trustees board of trustin extending ees extended Dr. my contract,” Bruce Gearing’s Gearing said contract by in a statement. one year, which “Dripping will have him Springs ISD GEARING as the schools’ is a fantastic leader until 2021-2022. district and I am grateTrustees also approved ful to be part of the a two percent salary Tiger Nation. I remain increase. committed to the famGearing, a native of ilies of our wonderful South Africa, was hired community as we help by Dripping Springs prepare our children ISD in February 2012. for their future.”
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News-Dispatch
Thursday, July 13, 2017
State aims to crack down on union dues collections STAFF REPORT
With a special session looming in the Texas Legislature, State Rep. Jason Isaac (R-Dripping Springs) intends to file legislation banning the state from collecting union dues. “Texans don’t ask much of their government, but one thing they do expect is responsible and transparent stewardship of their hard-earned money,” said Isaac in a statement. “Texas is a right-to-work state, and it’s simply not appropriate for labor unions to be given preferential treatment.
It’s long past time to end the outdated practice of using taxpayerfunded resources to collect dues for private organizations.” Isaac’s bill will have a senate companion filed by State Sen. Bryan Hughes (R-Mineola), according to a press release. The bill to be filed is similar to Senate Bill 13, which was filed during the regular session by State Sen. Joan Huffman (R-Houston). Huffman’s bill, which was voted out of the senate along party lines in March, restricted the state or a local political subdivision from
“Texas is a right-to-work state, and it’s simply not appropriate for labor unions to be given preferential treatment. It’s long past time to end the outdated practice of using taxpayerfunded resources to collect dues for private organizations.”
was a “selective attack” on educators and other public servants. “They use their own money to pay their membership dues, and it doesn’t cost governments anything to deduct their dues payments from their paychecks. These dedicated public servants should be free to use their own money to pay their membership dues as they see fit,” Candelaria said. Candelaria also claimed the bill was politically motivated, even though he said the TSTA and other employee organizations don’t use membership dues for political purposes.
–State Rep. Jason Isaac
withholding or deducting an employee’s salary for dues or membership fees for a labor organization. However, the bill was the subject of controversy as several Democratic senators, including Kirk
Watson (D-Austin), opposed the measure. The bill also received pushback from Noel Candelaria, Texas State Teachers Association president, who said in a March 29 release the bill
SB 13 died before the end of the regular session as it wasn’t voted out of House committee. Prohibiting the use of taxpayer dollars to collect union dues is one of 20 items Gov. Greg Abbott included on his call for a special session, which begins July 18. Abbott said in a statement Texans “should not be on the hook for collecting union dues.” “The legislature made strides in advancing this measure during the regular session, and with the upcoming special session I feel confident we can get this measure across the finish line,” Abbott said.
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Permit: EPA greenlights DS discharge Continued from pg. 1
nut Springs, a tributary of Onion Creek. In a letter to the TCEQ, which was given to the city last week, the EPA found contributions from non-point sources might have a larger impact on nutrient additions to Onion Creek than treated effluent or discharge. Non-point sources include runoff from bordering fields. The EPA’s letter also stated a wastewater facility would “contribute significantly fewer pollutants, nutrients” to Onion Creek than individual septic systems, which are used by homes in the area. Dripping Springs’ focus on reusing treated effluent for subsurface irrigation would decrease the amount discharged into Onion Creek, according to the EPA’s letter. That includes contracts the city has with the Caliterra and the Howard Ranch subdivisions to accept close to 600,000 gallons per day of treated effluent. The city also received a letter of intent
“I hope this signals to our community how committed we truly are to doing everything we can to protect our community’s quality of life.”
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from Driftwood developer Scott Roberts, who plans to accept up to 1 million gallons of treated effluent. “With the significant amount of population growth in this area, EPA believes having a wastewater treatment facility is necessary to maintain the high quality waters in Onion Creek,” according to the EPA’s letter. Dripping Springs Mayor Todd Purcell said it’s “incredibly gratifying” to receive the feedback from the EPA. “The country’s leading environmental regulatory agency has validated the hard work we’ve put in to develop the most environmentally sensitive plan for expansion possible,” Purcell said. “I
hope this signals to our community how committed we truly are to doing everything we can to protect our community’s quality of life.” Dripping Springs will continue to work with TCEQ, as well as to meet with stakeholders in the region, according to the release. “I think EPA took note of how stringent our permit requirements are and how committed we are to beneficial reuse,” said Mayor Pro Tem Bill Foulds in a statement. “We’ve conducted years of research to identify this proposed plan as the best option to meet our growing wastewater needs. We’ve done our homework.”
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Continued from pg. 1
city enacted its law in 2015. While the law is in place and signage points people to that fact, Barnett said commuters “tend to focus” on their driving when they see a police car nearby. “We do know (texting while driving) is a contributing factor to accidents,” Barnett said. Buda Mayor Todd Ruge said the new law is a positive piece of legislation as it places a “blanket” over the entire state. Ruge added Buda and other Texas cities have done a good job of legislating themselves prior to the statewide rule. He believed Buda’s law worked as a deterrent and an educational
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What’s going on in Hays County?
Distracted Driving: New law on books Jeff Barnett, Kyle Police Department chief, said he welcomes the new law as it creates consistency for travelers across the state. Those who go from town-to-town, especially along interstate highways, are subject to the different rules and regulations with each city’s texting while driving law, which could create issues for travelers. “With the state law, it’s consistent,” Barnett said. “They won’t have to worry about each city and each ordinance.” In Kyle, Barnett said citations for texting while driving are lower compared to other types of traffic violations. He estimates roughly 15 to 20 texting while driving citations have been written in Kyle since the
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INTERESTED IN REAL ESTATE?
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Dripping Springs Independent School District is requesting proposals for Charter Bus Services under RFP # 15019-1 Charter Bus Services Multiple Award. Proposals will be received in the Business Office of the Dripping Springs Independent School District, 510 West Mercer Street P.O. Box 479, Dripping Springs, Texas 78620. Proposals shall be addressed to Michelle Lyons, Purchasing Specialist. Any questions pertaining to the proposal specifications should be directed to Michelle Lyons, Purchasing Specialist – CTSBS, michelle.lyons@ dsisdtx.us. All proposals must be received by 2:00 P.M. (CST) on July 31, 2017. Dripping Springs Independent School District reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids, to waive any formalities and irregularities in the bids received, and to accept the offer(s) most advantageous to the District.
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Discussion on the recommendation continued as of press time. “Without an audit trail, why even have a recount?” Craig Young said during public comment June 27. Dr. Laura Presley, an election technology strategist for Travis County, said June 27 that Texas is one of only three states in the country without a paper ballot system or hybrid voting system. Presley called for commissioners to make Hays County a “clean election county.” Dan Lyon said that the county should invest in paper ballots “to restore voting integrity” in Hays County. However, Robert Smith, a security technology expert who was also on the county’s equipment advisory committee, said paper ballots constitute a barrier for possible voting centers, which the county claims voters desire. The requirements for voting centers are to only have direct recording electronic (DRE) voting machines. Voting centers would allow
“Under current Texas law, the use of a (direct recording electronic voting machine) is required for use in counties that wish to utilize Voting Centers.” –Jennifer Anderson, Hays County elections administrator
voters of any precinct to cast their ballot at that location, as opposed to the voter’s specific precinct. “Under current Texas law, the use of a DRE is required for use in counties that wish to utilize Voting Centers,” Jennifer Anderson, Hays County elections administrator, said regarding the decision of the Secretary of State
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to encourage the use of digital ballots. Anderson said in an emailed response the committee did not have preconceived notions on the voting machine that was selected, which was a claim made by a handful of Hays County residents. “The Election Commission appointed a well-rounded group of individuals that represented all the necessary skills to make an informed decision,” Anderson said. In a special workshop during the July 11 commissioners court meeting, Anderson also responded to residents’ questions regarding the mistakes made during the 2016 election. Anderson admitted that protocols and training methods needed to be updated moving forward to prevent similar issues from happening again. “The new systems provide components that would relieve much of the human error factor that caused concerns in the November election, under my predecessor,” Anderson said.
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Page 8
News-Dispatch
Thursday, July 13, 2017
PHOTOS BY MOSES LEOS III
PHOTOS BY DAVID WILSON
X-Raying ATX PHOTO BY DAVID WILSON
Bombs bursting in air
Above: Revelers at the Fire in the Sky event at Dripping Springs Ranch Park July 4 watch as fireworks explode overhead. Western Hays County residents showed their patriotic flair last week during various Independence Day events. In Wimberley, hundreds braved the heat and lined Ranch Road 12, as well as fill up the downtown square, for the annual Fourth of July parade in the downtown area. Meanwhile, those in Dripping Springs celebrated July 4 with a bang during the Fire in the Sky event hosted by State Rep. Jason Isaac. The event benefited the North Hays County Fire Rescue. Inset photos, clockwise from top left: A member of the Wimberley High volleyball team stirs up the crowd in her best red, white and blue during the city’s annual Fourth of July Parade in downtown Wimberley. A member of the Wimberley area Veteran of Foreign Wars shows off his patriotic garb on a float in the Wimberley Fourth of July Parade. Liam Murphy sporting his Independence Day glasses at the “Fire in the Sky” fireworks display at Dripping Springs Ranch Park on July 4th. Firefighter Laurie Shelton shows Isaac Long of Dripping Springs & Amber Wortham of Wimberley some of Station 75’s recuse equipment at the “Fire in the Sky” fireworks display at Dripping Springs Ranch Park on July 4th, 2017. Browse and buy photos online at www.HaysNewsDispatch.com. Just follow the Photos link.
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