July 14, 2021 News-Dispatch

JULY 14, 2021 BREAKING QUORUM

RELIEF COMING

State Democrats break quorum, take their fight to U.S. Capitol

COVID rent, utility relief coming to Hays County July 12

– Page 2

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Vol. 41 • No. 41

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Updated CDC guidelines suggest kids to return in person

BY SAHAR CHMAIS

Online school has proven to be burdensome for many children with failing rates that nearly doubled in Hays CISD and Dripping Springs ISD during the pandemic. Once again, the difficulty was proven when STAAR test grades dramatically dropped between 2019 and 2021 across the

state.

Although this is the CDC’s suggestion, Based on the impact of online learning, the Cenbefore the end of the school year, ters for Disease Control Texas Governor Greg Abbott released and Prevention (CDC) set out new guidelines for the an ordinance that said schools cannot upcoming school year. enforce mask-wearing and the Teachers and children who are fully vaccinated do decision is up to individuals. not need to wear masks in schools to fully return to spread of the virus. But the school, according to the in-person learning, even CDC wants districts to be new guidelines. meticulous in monitoring The CDC is highly urging if schools cannot curb the

the spread of COVID-19 within schools. Some things districts can monitor include local health data to determine when to tighten or relax prevention methods, such as mask-wearing and social distancing.

Although this is the CDC’s suggestion, before the end of the school year, Texas Governor Greg Ab-

BY SAHAR CHMAIS

BY MEGAN WEHRING

KYLE FIREWORKS, 2

CDC SCHOOL GUIDELINES, 10

4-way stop approved at Cypress Springs Elementary

July 4 fireworks show called short in Kyle KYLE — Kyle residents only got to see 10 minutes of fireworks with no big finale, even after a promise of a 30-minute show.

“Happy Independence Day, Kyle,” said Mayor Travis Mitchell in a Facebook statement on Sunday.

“Sorry the fireworks show was a failure. You deserved better.”

The city’s vendor, American Fireworks, ended the show early due to a fuse box that was programmed to the wrong channel and it was not receiving the signal to launch. Additionally, three crew members from the firework company did not show up.

Due to the shortfall, the city of Kyle will not be paying the vendor.

American Fireworks was also used in last year’s July 4 celebration and Kyle did not see a need to seek a new vendor this year, according to the city’s incident report. When Mariana Espinoza, parks and recreation director, went to deliver the check on Sunday, she decided to hold on to the check after there was a possibility the full 30-minute show would not go on.

bott released an ordinance that said schools cannot enforce mask-wearing and the decision is up to individuals.

The updated guidelines will also add information to promote vaccination against COVID-19. In Hays County, there are 4,085 children between the ages

PHOTO BY CYNDY SLOVAK-BARTON

The Barton Springs/Edwards Aquifer Conservation District July 8 lifted the Stage II Drought Declaration and declared a No-Drought condition for the aquifers. Above, kids take advantage of the Buda City Park’s new waterscape.

Drought declaration lifted in Edwards and Trinity aquifers

BY BRITTANY ANDERSON

While the local aquifer district is lifting water restrictions, that doesn’t mean all cities are following suit.

The Barton Springs/ Edwards Aquifer Conservation District July 8 lifted the Stage II Drought Declaration and declared a No-Drought condition for the aquifer.

However, residents within Buda and Kyle city limits must follow their local restrictions.

Kyle plans to maintain its drought standing, while Buda is following in line

Kyle is currently in Stage II drought and there is no timeframe for moving into a lesser drought stage.

with BS/EACD. The Edwards and Trinity Aquifer region, which includes Kyle and Buda, has received a little over 18 inches of rainfall since the beginning of 2021. Consistent small rain events in March and April raised the amount of water present in the soil, and May and June produced above-average rainfall at 10 inches.

These events generated

plenty of runoff to area creeks and gave the aquifer a much-needed recharge, according to the BS/EACD. For the district to declare drought conditions, either Lovelady Well water levels or Barton Springs flow need to be below their respective drought thresholds.

However, to declare a drought stage, both Barton Springs and Lovelady

must rise above their respective drought trigger values. This requirement keeps the district from making multiple drought declarations over short periods of time.

Without additional rainfall over the next couple months, the district could return to Stage II Alarm Drought Status.

Kyle is currently in Stage II drought and there is no timeframe for moving into a lesser drought stage. Water consumption is moni-

DROUGHT LIFTED, 5

COMING UP THIS WEEK LA VERDE AND CULTURAL TRAIL GROUNDBREAKING & STREET FAIR

Enjoy an evening of fun and learning at the La Verde and Cultural Trail Groundbreaking & Street Fair. Food trucks, live music, and interactive art are just a few of the festivities that will be held.

Hosted by the city of Kyle, this event is to teach people within the community about the 1.6 acre La Verde Park and Cultural Trail that is to be built in Kyle and offer a preview of its ability to be used as a community gathering space and event lawn. The groundbreaking and street fair will be from 6:30 to 8 p.m. July 15 at the intersection of Doherty and Burnham

street. Attendees will be able to park at the Hays Performing Arts Center.

FAMILY SKATE NIGHT

See what’s really going on in your community.

–Page 8

PAINTING IN THE PARK

Skate around Ash Pavilion with your family on Family Skate Night hosted by the Kyle Parks and Recreation Department. The event will contain concessions, music, and lights to create an environment that you and your family can enjoy. Adults 21 and over must accompany any child younger than 16, and everyone attending must be registered, although families can register under 1 account. Family Skate Night will be from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m July 16 at Ash Pavilion in Gregg-Clarke Park. Regis-

PUBLIC NOTICES

ter at: http://www.teamsideline.com/kyle.

Experience an afternoon of peace at Painting in the Park. Head to Historic Stagecoach Park in Buda with your art supplies for a chance to use your creativity and paint outside under beautiful oak trees. Joy Bliss of Inspired Minds Art Center will be hosting the guided open studio from 9 to 11 a.m Saturday, July 17.

The class will be held in the park’s amphitheater, and make sure to bring your own paint, brushes, and canvas.

If you need to borrow an easel or stool, you can email Sinead@inspiredminds.art to

HAYS COUNTY – Commissioners approved a 4-way stop for the new Cypress Springs Elementary School in Dripping Springs.

The stop will be established at the intersection of Darden Hill Road, Sawyer Ranch Roach and the entrance of the elementary school. It will be a temporary solution, as to not create a large construction project and disruptions as the new school year approaches.

This stop will be in place through the 2021-2022 school year.

When the upcoming school year ends, construction of a roundabout will take place, according to Pct. 4 Hays County Commissioner Walt Smith.

BSEACD board position open after director resigns

BY SAHAR CHMAIS

reserve their limited supply.

You can RSVP at www.

InspiredMinds.art.

ARTISINAL FOODS FAIR

Family Business Beer Company in Dripping Springs will be hosting an Artisanal Foods Fair for the very first time in history. The fair will include live music, handcrafted snacks, beverages, and more. Craft food and beverages will be from businesses such as Jeany’s Caribbean Elixirs, a Caribbean inspired food and beverage company, and Do, which makes Cottage Artisan Breads. The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Saturday, July 17 at Family Business Beer Company.

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

After nine years of serving on the board of the Barton Springs Edwards Aquifer Conservation District (BSEACD) and also as secretary, Blake Dorsett has resigned his position.

BSEACD is now accepting applicants for a new board member.

Dorsett brought a wealth of experience to his job as Precinct 3 director, as he was a certified Class C Groundwater Treatment Operator and has been running, maintaining and upgrading water systems in Texas for 20 years. He resigned due to personal commitments and prior-

BOARD SPOT OPEN, 4

Page 2

NEWS

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • July 14, 2021

Zwiener files grid infrastructure bills

BY BRITTANY ANDERSON

Two House Bills were filed by Rep. Erin Zwiener (D-Driftwood) to provide grants for local infrastructure and ensure resilience in the face of future severe weather events.

In response to February’s harsh winter storm, Uri, Zwiener filed House Bills 236 and 242 on July 12, which will help take pressure off Texas’ grid by improving local power infrastructure and implementing energy efficient practices across the state.

“Texas is a global leader in energy production and is more than equipped to provide a stable power supply to its residents,” Zwiener said. “These bills will help get us there.”

Texas witnessed blindspots in the state’s electric

grid and its associated infrastructure during Winter Storm Uri, Zwiener said.

Hundreds of Texans across the state died largely due to hypothermia and carbon monoxide poisoning, while at least 4.5 million homes and businesses were without power and 14.9 million people faced water disruptions.

House Bill 236 would issue grants to support necessary improvements to local infrastructure such as covering wells, purchasing reserve power supply like onsite generation and energy storage systems, installing smart metering and building connectivity to neighboring water suppliers.

House Bill 242 would require the state to take the lead in lowering its energy consumption during

House Bills 236 and 242 on July 12, which will help take pressure off Texas’ grid by improving local power infrastructure and implementing energy efficient practices across the state.

power shortages. This legislation comes in response not just to the blackouts during Winter Storm Uri but also the power shortages in June. State-owned buildings would have to implement demand response technologies that would lower energy usage by up to 30%. In the event that the grid is over-extended, state-owned buildings would have their thermostats raised and lights shut off.

Protections at the local level are the critical pieces

missing from the government’s response, Zwiener said. During the Legislature’s regular session, legislation was passed that would help with the weatherization of natural gas facilities and rework the structure of the Electric Reliability Council of Texas’ (ERCOT) governing board. However, nothing was passed to help reduce overall pressure on the grid or guard against future severe weather events.

In addition to the bills,

the Texas Caucus on Climate, Environment, and the Energy Industry, led by Zwiener, called on Governor Greg Abbott to add the electric grid to the special session agenda.

The caucus is requesting that the Legislature focus on a number of grid-related issues, including infrastructure resiliency and reliability.

“The Legislature cannot afford to meet in a peak summer month and completely ignore the electric grid,” Zwiener said. “While we took some positive steps through the regular session, we left untouched low-hanging fruit like energy efficiency and demand response.”

On July 6, before the Legislature’s special session began, Abbott sent a letter to the Public

Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) and ERCOT to take immediate actions to increase power generation capacity and ensure reliability of the Texas power grid.

In response, ERCOT sent a letter detailing the strategies they have taken to achieve this.

Those strategies include increasing the amount of electric power generation, purchasing more power reserves, releasing power reserves to meet customer demand quicker and procuring additional power reserves during uncertain weather forecasts. ERCOT’s letter to Abbott can be read here.

Additionally, ERCOT will release a plan this week to ensure grid reliability and improve communication.

Democrats break quorum, take fight to U.S. Capitol

BY SAHAR CHMAIS

bill that would limit access to voting and a bill that Democrats broke would further restrict aborquorum and left the state tion access in Texas. of Texas in a move to stop “Texans came out in the bills prioritized by Gov. droves this weekend to Greg Abbott in the special signal their support for the session. freedom to vote – and their State legislators are takopposition to this legislaing these issues to Washtion,” said Taylor Bounds, ington D.C., according to Zwiener’s communications State Rep. Erin Zwiener director. “In a 23-hour (D-Driftwood). hearing, the committee “The decision to leave heard the testimony of the state was not an easy hundreds and still chose one,” Zwiener said, “but I to move this legislation know that this is the only forward. Everyday Texans way to keep the harmful – House Democrats includlegislation that Governor ed – are doing everything Abbott has prioritized for they can to preserve the the special session from freedom to vote. We need passing. I do not take this Congress to act now.” move lightly, and it is with Abbott said Democrats a heavy heart that I leave must put their partisan my community – but I politics aside to do the job know that this is necessary they were elected for. Some to do right by them. The bills the governor cited that freedom to vote is sacred.” the legislators are abanSome of the priority bills doning include property legislators did not want tax relief, funding to suppassing include a bill that port law enforcement in will disallow transgender high-crime areas, funding students from competing for children in foster care in teams of the opposite and funding for retired sex they were born into, a teachers.

“Texas Democrats’ decision to break a quorum of the Texas Legislature and abandon the Texas State Capitol inflicts harm on the very Texans who elected them to serve,” Abbott said. “As they fly across the country on cushy private planes, they leave undone issues that can help their districts and our state.”

This is not the first time Democrats broke quorum in the 87th Legislative Session over bills restricting access to voting.

House Bill 3 and Senate Bill 1 are the omnibus bills Democrats refuse to vote on. Provisions in these bills include requiring voter identifications for mail-in ballots, prohibiting drivethrough early voting and extended hours of early voting. Additionally, they will impose a higher standard of eligibility for voting by mail on the ground of disability, prohibit pre-filling of any portion of information on voter registration applications and more.

Continued from pg. 1

of the company’s larger contracts.

“If we are lucky enough to be able to do a show for Kyle again,” Davis said, “I will have our best pyrotech crew together for this show. If I knew things were going to play out like they did with this other company, I would have done that. … It wasn’t too high of an expectation to get that show ready if they had held their bargain up.

It’s my fault for trusting them and I will not do that again.”

Following the fireworks show on Sunday, numerous negative comments

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Kyle Fireworks: Show was shortened “I’m extremely embarrassed by it,” said Steve Davis, director of pyrotechnic displays at American Fireworks. “That’s not what we are about [and] that’s not the quality that we provide.”

American Fireworks was working with another company, which was in charge of the Buda show, to have enough help to build the full show in Kyle.

But that company did not follow through.

Mitchell said if the city were to use American Fireworks again, he would like to see Kyle as top priority as the area is one

FOR BEING OUR

from Kyle residents circulated across social media. Council member Yvonne Flores-Cale said the community should understand that Davis is apologetic for what happened that night.

“My heart really went out to you,” Flores-Cale said during Tuesday’s council meeting. “I can’t even imagine how you felt showing up, knowing that you were not going to have [enough]workers there. … I think as a community, dais and people in general, that it’s important not only to give grace but to get grace.”

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Opinion

QUOTE OF THE WEEK “Texans came out in droves this weekend to signal their support for the freedom to vote – and their opposition to this legislation. In a 23-hour hearing, the committee heard the testimony of hundreds and still chose to move this legislation forward.

–Taylor Bounds, State Rep. Erin Zwiener’s communications director. Story on page 2.

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • July 14, 2021

Page 3

RVing trend good for civility It’s an old dream of mine and I just may do it: Buy a travel trailer and live on the American road for weeks at a time.

Recreational vehicle living is a growing trend, particularly for younger people, who, post-Covid, prefer to work at home instead of commuting to their company’s office building.

Thanks to technology, your “home office” can now be in an RV parked next to a rushing creek in the middle of nowhere.

I’ve been critical of the downsides of digital innovation, which has given us social media tools that cause many of us to embrace narrower viewpoints and become intolerant of anyone who disagrees with us.

But here’s the big upside: All anyone needs now to live on the road is an RV with a solar panel and a cell phone that can provide a WiFi signal.

That will allow anyone anywhere to access his company’s computer network, manage his finances and life online, and relax in the evening by watching hundreds of channels of television through streaming services.

Better yet, technology is also enabling many of us to make our livings in unconventional ways.

One family, reports CNBC, sold two houses, purchased an RV and is making a handsome living filing blog reports about its travels.

As a long-time provider of communications and cybersecurity services, I’ve been able to work remotely for years. So why not hit the road with my Labrador buddy, Thurber?

I’m searching daily for a modest RV that would meet my basic needs, which pretty much amounts to a small table where I can sit and write.

Why not visit family and friends scattered all over the country? I can park in their driveway as long as I want or return to my house anytime I want.

Why not take an extended trip to Alaska, a long-time dream, or to Nova Scotia, another place I’ve always want-

Guest Column

by Tom Purcell

ed to explore?

At this moment, I’m really longing for a visit to the ocean. The sound of large waves splashing has always held a restorative power for me. Every time I visit the Atlantic Ocean, my blood pressure drops and a calm comes over me.

The biggest upside to the growing RVing trend, though, will benefit our testy society.

RV-ing will help open minds and hearts by enabling people to have conversations with other people faceto-face around a campground bonfire, rather than swapping snarky insults while hiding behind the safety of a computer screen.

Author Ken Stern, formerly president of National Public Radio, wrote a great road book in 2017 describing the year he spent outside of his politically “parochial” urban East Coast neighborhood.

He set out to meet people across the American Heartland who he had considered wrong-headed on a variety of issues — until he sat down and actually talked with them.

Stern discovered that Americans of all backgrounds have a much more nuanced understanding of their country and the world — and that our country would benefit from re-embracing the art of conversation.

I’m hankering to do just that.

I dream of parking my truck and travel trailer right on the beach at Assateague Island, MD. It only costs 30 bucks a night.

I’ll wake early to make a pot of fresh coffee. I’ll sip it from a mug as I walk along the beach with my dog as the sun rises.

As I think about making this my new reality, I can already feel my blood pressure dropping.

Tom Purcell is an author and humor columnist for the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review.

Tom@TomPurcell.com

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 Reporters Megan Wehring, Sahar Chmais Columnists Bartee Haile, Clint Younts

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REO Speed Wagon wasn’t just a 70s band T

BY DAVID WHITE

he activity of camping may seem like a concept that’s been around forever. But in the years following the birth of our nation, early American pioneers had little desire to “rough it.” But as those pioneers turned into established citizens thriving enough to live a comfortable, modern life, there was a need to get back to nature – somewhere they could face the challenges of the wilderness that they couldn’t find at home.

Some credit books like William H.H. Murray’s successful 1869 “Adventures in the Wilderness, Camp-Life in the Adirondacks,” the first book printed in America on the topic of camping, and John B. Bachelder’s 1875 book “Popular Resorts and How to Reach Them,” for sparking the rebirth of the camping spirit. The book points out that, at that time, camping by horse and wagon was a far more favorable choice among the wealthier class.

According to a Smithsonian Magazine article, “A Brief History of the RV,” the popularity of camping increased significantly after 1910 when automobiles became much more affordable to the masses. And in 1904, the first RV was handbuilt onto an automobile that featured bunks for four adults, lighting, an icebox and a radio. This prototype encouraged several camping enthusiasts with deep pockets to modify their own vehicles.

One such couple reached a new plateau in recreational vehicle (RV) technology in 1915 when Roland and Mary Conklin, founders of Roland Conklin’s Gas-Electric Motor Bus Company, launched the creation of a fully furnished, double-decker vehicle that they named “the Gypsy Van.”

Above is Roland Conklin’s gas-electric motorbus that had its maiden voyage across the nation from New York to San Francisco in 1915. It was one of the prototypes for the modern-day RV. Left is a 1923 REO Speed Wagon, built by the REO Motor Car Company.

The Gypsy Van turned heads across the nation on a maiden tour from New York to San Francisco. The family received much media attention, especially from the New York Times which chronicled the trip in great depth. The Times described the vehicle as having “an electrical generator and incandescent lighting, a full kitchen, Pullman-style sleeping berths, a folding table and desk, a concealed bookcase, a phonograph, convertible sofas with throw pillows, a variety of small appliances and even a roof garden … a sublimated English caravan, land-yacht,

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or what you will.”

Automobile and truck manufacturers quickly followed suit and offered a limited number of fully complete motorhomes including REO Motor Car Company’s Speed Wagon Bungalow and Hudson-Essex’s Pullman Coach. While the novelty of these beasts captured the imagination of camping enthusiasts, the large motorhomes had limitations that kept them from being hugely popular, in that they could only get as close to the wilderness as a well-maintained road and parking area, and the price,

resulting in the popularity of the less expensive travel trailer. RVs took the back seat to trailers until the 1960s when technological advancements and the economy breathed new life into the RV industry.

The RV has found its place in American culture.

It fills the need to escape the stress of modern life by returning to nature while ironically bringing all the comforts of modern life to our wilderness destination.

The modern-day 34-foot Class A motorhome with multiple TVs, two bathrooms and a king bed is a tribute to the Gypsy Van introduced over a hundred years ago. And so, the spirit of the RV keeps on truckin’.

The following article was reprinted from the Spring 2020 Hays County Echo.

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NEWS

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • July 14, 2021

Zwiener proposes bill to limit state campaign contributions

BY SAHAR CHMAIS

Limiting campaign contributions for state officials and state candidates is the goal set by State Rep. Erin Zwiener (D-Driftwood).

House Bill 121, introduced by Zwiener, proposes to limit contributions to $5,000 per election, per individual, and $10,000 per election, per political action committee (PAC).

Texas has no contribution limit for state candidates and is one of 11 states without a campaign limit

HB 121, initiated by Zwiener, proposes to limit contributions to $5,000 per election, per individual, and $10,000 per election, per political action committee (pac).

for state-level offices.

“House Bill 121 will bring integrity and transparency to our campaign finance system,” Zwiener said. “The best way to ensure that our elections have integrity is to make sure Texas elected offi-

cials aren’t for sale. This legislation would provide common sense campaign contribution limits, just like we have at the federal level.”

HB 121 aims to create equity in state elections, while lessening the influ-

ence that “big money” has on elected officials and their campaigns, according to Zwiener. In 2018, 10 contributors donated over $18 million, according to Zwiener. This number has jumped to over $68 million during the 2020 election cycle.

“I want elected officials to be accountable to their constituents, not their big donors,” Zwiener said.

“We need to set a new standard of putting people first in politics, instead of money.”

HB 1535 could help Texans find pain relief

BY MEGAN WEHRING

There are 6,698 patients listed in the medical marJax Finkel watched a ijuana registry, according close friend take prescrip- to a report by the Texas tion after prescription to Department of Public ease the pain of Becker Safety in June 2021, while Muscular Dystrophy there are only 348 physi(BMD), yet the dozens of cians approved to prepills were only causing scribe low tetrahydrocanmore suffering. Using nabinol (THC) cannabis cannabis as treatment through the program. allowed him to be present “Not many doctors with his family and beare familiar with THC come an advocate for his and its benefits,” said Dr. fellow patients with the Zulfigar Shah. “It’s still a time he had left. taboo subject for a lot of “He reminds me why physicians. They don’t talk patients should have more about medical marijuana control over their medical [in medical school]. When decisions and therapies you have a brand new with the guidance of their doctor right out of med doctors,” said Finkel, school, they are afraid of executive director of Texas prescribing something NORML, a pro-marijuana like this. Even though they organization, “why qualshouldn’t be, it’s because ifying conditions essenthey weren’t taught and tially pick winners and they didn’t open their losers by leaving patients minds to doing more behind and how much a research.” plant could empower an Shah is a board-certiextremely ill person.” fied and medical cannabis On Sept. 1, Texans with physician at Texas THC post-traumatic stress Doctor located in Seguin. disorder (PTSD) and any Because there are only 348 stage of cancer will qualify registered physicians in for medical marijuana the state, Shah does treat under the state’s Compatients who travel from passionate Use Program. out of town to his clinic.

Hays County only has one physician that can prescribe low-THC cannabis.

PTSD patients can finally be eligible for alternative medication, Jude Prather of the Hays County Veteran Services Offices said.

“I’m glad our veterans are going to have access to a natural herbal medicine that can help alleviate their pain and suffering,” Prather said.

Some advocates, like Rep. Erin Zwiener (D-Driftwood), said House Bill 1535 is incomplete.

“It’s a meaningful improvement to our existing medical cannabis laws,” Zwiener said.

“However, it doesn’t go nearly far enough. The House version of the bill would have also included chronic pain and stripped out unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles. I’m grateful we made some progress but disappointed we didn’t go further to ensure access for all Texans who can benefit from medical cannabis.

The legislation was originally written to in-

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clude chronic pain under the eligible conditions and raise the cap on THC level from 0.5% to 5%. But the Senate stripped those provisions and lowered the new THC limit to 1%.

“An increase in THC percentage means a reduction in the amount of carrier oil,” Finkel explained, “which will make for more effective medicine while [also] decreasing the cost of medicine for patients. Since Texas must make all changes through the legislature at this time, this means patients’ and doctors’ hands are tied for another two years till the legislature meets.”

The state of Texas only has three dispensing organizations: Fluent Cannabis Care, Compassionate Cultivation and Goodblend. To participate in the Compassionate Use Program, a patient must get a prescription from a registered doctor and then they can make a purchase from one of the licensed dispensaries for either a pick up or delivery.

Hays CISD extends superintendent contract

BY MEGAN WEHRING Superintendent Dr. Eric Wright will continue leading Hays CISD until June 2026.

The Hays CISD Board of Trustees agreed to employ Wright on a twelve-month annual basis from July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2026. The

district will now pay the superintendent a salary of $334,000 per year — it was $318,000 last year.

Wright’s contract is

still in draft form and has not been finalized yet. The district expects the contract to be signed by all parties at the end of this month.

Board Spot Open: Barton Springs Edwards Aquifer District Continued from pg. 1

ities.

The board and of directors and district management said they are thankful for Dorsett’s hard work and service to the community and that he will be missed.

BSEACD will need a candidate to serve until the term expires. Residents can vote on a board mem-

ber in the general election in November 2022.

The interim director of Precinct 3 will overlook the areas of Creedmoor Water Supply, Goforth Special Utility District and Monarch Utilities. Candidates must submit a letter of interest with a summary of qualifications to the district and mail it to the

following address: BSEACD Attn: General Manager 1124 Regal Row Austin, TX 78748 To qualify, applicants will need to make the required time commitment and must have a voting residency within Precinct 3. The four board members will evaluate the candi-

dates for the position.

District directors will help set and enforce policy that protects, conserves and manages groundwater resources within the district.

More information can be found at https:// bseacd.org/about-us/ board/, or by contacting the General Manager at vescobar@bseacd.org.

Serving the Hill County Since 1983 ANGIE DAHL • AGENT

With two locations to serve you.

107 E. Summit Dr Wimberley 512-847-5549

102 Fitzhugh Rd Dripping Springs 512-894-2286

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • July 14, 2021

HISTORY/COMMUNITY

Page 5

Eviction day for the Cherokees ends in death of chief Refusing to submit to peaceful eviction from the Lone Star Republic, the Cherokee warriors stood their ground on July 16, 1839 against the advancing Texans and thereby ensured a bloody day of reckoning for the Civilized Tribe.

The tide of public opinion had shifted ominously against the Cherokees since San Jacinto. The anti-Indian hysteria that swept the beleaguered nation did not distinguish between the allies of yesteryear and the Comanches, Apaches and other hostile bands terrorizing the frontier. When an angry consensus jelled in favor of ridding the Republic of all Indians, not even Sam Houston, lifelong champion of the Cherokees, could stop the coming confrontation.

A resolution passed by the provisional government in November 1835 reflected a high opinion of the East Texas tribe as well as the desire to enlist the Cherokees in the rebellion against Mexico. “We solemnly declare that they are entitled to our commiseration and protection, as the just owners of the soil, as an unfortunate race of people, that we wish to hold as friends and treat with justice.”

As the logical follow-up to this overture, Gen. Sam

Texas History

by Bartee Haile

Houston signed a treaty in February 1836 with his old friend Chief Bowles, the Cherokee patriarch.

During his youth and the dark days after resigning as governor of Tennessee, Houston had spent many happy months with the Cherokees. For the man destined to lead the Texans to victory, the peace pact provided a proud and satisfying moment.

The treaty affirmed the Cherokees’ right to the land in East Texas that they had occupied for two decades. Covering 150 square miles, their domain included the current counties of Smith and Cherokee plus portions of Rusk, Van Zandt and Gregg. Despite this generous gesture, the Cherokees watched the Lone Star Revolution from a neutral corner.

This standoffish attitude, coupled with the rumor that the tribe was poised to attack the retreating Texans should Santa Anna prevail at San Jacinto, created intense hostility. As president, Houston waged an uphill campaign for ratification

The Friends Foundation announces 28th Annual Fundraiser at Salt Lick social media and the online auction site. Sponsorship forms can be downloaded from the website, and mailed with a check or paid for online at www.thefriendsfoundation.org.

Donated items or gift certificates are accepted before Sept. 1 to be included in the online auction.

Contact The Friends Foundation at info@thefriendsfoundation.org or call (512) 592-1345.

The Friends Foundation is an all-volunteer nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. All proceeds from the fundraiser are used to support services and programs improving the quality of life for the elderly in the greater Dripping Springs area.

“Doing good deeds to meet the elderly’s needs.”

of his treaty, but in December 1837 the Republic senate declared the agreement null and void.

The sinister Cordova Affair deepened doubts about Cherokee intentions. Vincente Cordova, a Mexican agitator, organized a well-armed rabble of 600 malcontents, Mexican sympathizers and renegade Indians for the overthrow of the unstable Republic. His regular meetings with Chief Bowles raised the specter of Cherokee collaboration with the Texans’ mortal enemies.

Ignoring repeated pleas from Houston, Bowles refused to disavow Cordova or to bar the insurgents from tribal lands. The revolt finally fizzled, but suspicions lingered about the Indians’ part in the plot.

The worst massacre in East Texas history occurred in October 1838,

when 18 members of the Killough family were butchered in Cherokee territory. Indians under Cordova’s control were likely responsible for the slaughter, but in the eyes of Texas the blood of the slain settlers was on the Cherokees’ hands.

At this critical juncture, Mirabeau Lamar assumed the presidency. Opposed to the presence of any Indians in the Republic, he called for the expulsion of all tribes, a get-tough policy frightened Texans cheered.

Sensational documents seized in the spring of 1839 sealed the fate of the Cherokees. Searching for his comrade Cordova, Manuel Flores was killed by a Texas patrol. Papers discovered on his body implicated Chief Bowles in a conspiracy to assist the Mexicans in the reconquest of their lost province.

Texas

Crossword Puzzle sponsored by

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In June 1839, Lamar’s emissaries served Bowles with a terse eviction notice. After ten days of deliberations, the 83-yearold head chief informed the waiting Texans that his people would not budge.

A subdued Bowles blamed younger chieftains and cocky braves, who believed they could whip the whites in a fair fight.

Near the banks of the Neches River in present-day Van Zandt County, the Texans found the Cherokees ready and waiting. The line of warriors stretched almost a mile. After an hour and a half of hand-to-hand combat, the badly mauled Indians fell back in total defeat.

Thrown from his wounded horse, Bowles rose only to be shot in the back. While other Texans urged mercy, Robert Smith, who had lost a

water required to keep plants healthy. Additionally, check that irrigation system is functioning at peak efficiency, replace leaking gaskets and hoses and install a rain barrel or rainwater harvesting system.

For more information on the aquifer’s drought conditions, you can visit the district’s Drought Monitor Blog at http://droughtmonitor.blogspot.

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

Your Business & Referrals Are Appreciated

DeMasters - Daniel Insurance Agency, Inc. Serving Hays County since 1983 “Call us for all of your insurance needs” Angie Dahl

Wimberley: 512-847-5549 or 512-847-9325 Dripping Springs: 512-858-4608

Continued from pg. 1

BS/EACD encourages continued conservation through July and August as those months are usually the hottest and driest times of the year. Planting native or drought-tolerant landscapes, mulching and using compost can reduce the amount of irrigation water required to keep plants healthy.

“Murder Most Texan” is a must read for fans of true crime and Texas history.

Order your copy for $24.00 by mailing a check to Bartee Haile, P.O. Box 130011, Spring, TX 77393.

AUTO • HOME • LIFE • BOAT • HEALTH

Drought Lifted tored by staff and drought stages are recommended in order to maintain adequate supply within Kyle’s water system. If the rain continues and demand stays down, the recommendations will be made to move into Stage I drought.

The city encourages residents to be aware of who their water provider is and be vigilant in following drought stage requirements. More information on current Kyle water restrictions can be found at https://www.cityofkyle. com/publicworks/current-drought-stage-watering-restrictions.

Effective July 9, Buda lifted Stage I drought restrictions in light of the district’s declaration.

However, year-round conservation measures are still in effect. Irrigation with hose-end and automatic sprinkler systems is not allowed between the hours of 10 a.m. and 7 p.m., and residents may water on any day of the week but are encouraged to abide by the twice-per-week watering schedule.

BS/EACD encourages continued conservation through July and August as those months are usually the hottest and driest times of the year. Planting native or drought-tolerant landscapes, mulching and using compost can reduce the amount of irrigation

relative to the Cherokees, rushed forward and killed the ancient chief with a single bullet to the head.

Further resistance was futile. At sunrise the demoralized survivors headed north for the Indian Territory with the Texans following at a safe distance.

Land lust and racial hatred were but two of the ingredients in the rout of the Civilized Tribe. Most Texans were willing to give peaceful coexistence a try until the Cherokees started playing high-stakes politics. Bowles’ risky game of intrigue invited and ultimately assured disaster.

Debbie Thames Insurance Agency

Sudoku puzzle courtesy of www.4puz.com

This year’s 28th Annual Friends Foundation Fundraiser will be a hybrid event with Gold Ticket sales and an online auction, as well as a traditional in-person barbeque fundraiser from 5 to 8:30 p.m. Oct. 14 at the Salt Lick Pavilion with fellowship, games and live music by the Hot Texas Swing Band. As in the past, vendors may provide complimentary drinks, but the event is BYOB. Businesses and individuals are encouraged to become sponsors and will benefit from exceptional publicity this year. All sponsors will be listed in ads in local newspapers. In addition, each will receive prominent promotional mention at the BBQ and be listed on The Friends Foundation website,

The worst massacre in East Texas history occurred in October 1838, when 18 members of the Killough family were butchered in Cherokee territory. Indians under Cordova’s control were likely responsible for the slaughter, but in the eyes of Texas the blood of the slain settlers was on the Cherokees’ hands.

See solution on page 7

See solution on page 7

Page 6

NEWS

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • July 14, 2021

COVID rent, utility relief on its way July 12

BY SAHAR CHMAIS

HAYS COUNTY - Residents struggling to make ends meet could receive some relief with rental and utility assistance. The application process will begin July 12.

The COVID-19 Emergency Assistance Program (ERA) is a federal fund that will assist with back rent, utility payments and late fee assistance,

for those affected by the pandemic. Money granted for rental assistance will be given to the landlord or tenant.

On July 12, landlords and tenants can begin registration and receive a receipt for their registration. The receipt will be used to show Hays County courts proof of application if eviction proceedings are in motion. Landlords can also

contact Hays County’s ERA Program for tenant flyers and encourage tenants with past due rent to apply to the program.

ERA Program can cover up to 12 months of rent and utility assistance, if eligible, and will account for payments accrued after March 13, 2020.

Applicants will receive funds three months at a time and will not receive more than 12 months of

DOCUMENTS NEEDED FOR APPLICATION SUBMISSIONS INCLUDE:

assistance.

Eligible applicants must have an income at or below 50% of the area median, which is $98,900 in Hays County. Another eligibility includes households with one or more individuals that have been unemployed for at least 90 days prior to the date of application; these applicants will be prioritized for the first 21 days of the program.

• • • • • • •

Amount due in rent Utilities, if not included in rent Reasonable accrued late fees W9, provided by landlord PDF bank deposit statements for unpaid rent Previous W2 Other applicant expenses

To learn more, visit the county website at hayscountytx. com/departments/veteran-services/emergency-rentalassistance-program/, or email erap@co.hays.tx.us.

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Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • July 14, 2021

OBITUARIES

Page 7

OBITUARIES HAUBER Dr. Janet Elaine Hauber, aged 83, of Driftwood, TX, formerly from Castro Valley, CA, went to be with God on Jan. 27, 2021. She died peacefully in her home.

Dr. Hauber is a founding member of the Texas Republic Ranches Legacy Foundation and served on the board of directors. She retired in 2004 after a 34-year career with the University of California at which time she moved to central Texas. She worked her entire career in the development of nuclear weapons to serve as a deterrent to war. Her expertise was in metallurgy, high temperature mechanical properties of metals, safe handling of radioactive materials, workplace safety, and project and personnel management.

Through performance she advanced to significantly higher

levels of responsibility in her career. She began as a staff scientist to the project leader, then advanced to project manager, section leader, plutonium metallurgy and engineering manager, program manager, division leader, and finally special assistant to the engineering department head for research and development. In 1998, she deferred her planned retirement for two years to take an assignment at the U.S. Department of Energy in Washington D.C. as program manager of the nuclear cities initiative, “Swords for Plowshares”, which was an effort between Russian nuclear weapons scientists and their U.S. counterparts.

Dr. Hauber was awarded the Distinguished Career Service Award by the National Nuclear Security Administration.

After retirement in 2000, Dr. Hauber was asked by her former employer to lead an effort to evaluate, decontaminate, and decommission

a highly radioactive materials facility. The project was completed on time and within the budget and she retired again in 2004.

She received her Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering degree from Marquette University in 1965, and her Master’s and Ph.D. degrees in Materials Science and Engineering from Stanford University in 1967 and 1970, respectively. Dr. Hauber received fellowships from the Ford Foundation as well as from the American Society for Testing Materials while in graduate school.

Dr. Hauber was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and lived in Virginia, California, and Moscow, Russia, before settling in Texas.

A long-time philanthropist, Dr. Hauber awarded 46, $1000 scholarships to aspiring women engineers, established a Presidential Endowed Scholarship for a female engineer undergraduate

at UT, donated $50,000 for computer equipment to the student athlete center at the University of Texas, sponsored numerous children’s educations, through Children Inc. In addition, she supported multiple youth athletic efforts aimed at obtaining athletic scholarships for minority girls.

Janet was also an avid Cowboy Action shooter and an officer of The Tejas Cabballeros Club.

She is survived by her daughter Kimberly Hauber, her grandchildren, Douglas Hauber, Caleb Wilde, and Jesse Hauber-Harris, her niece Jori Johnson, and her goddaughter Lynda Hauber.

A graveside memorial will be held at 9 a.m. July 21, 2021 at the Driftwood Cemetery, next to the Driftwood United Methodist Church, at the intersection of Farm to Market Rd 150 and Elder hill Road. Coffee and light refreshments will follow the service in the community room.

Solidified remains are a clean alternative to ashes that allow you to live comfortably with your departed.

Call us to learn more 512-443-1366 www.HarrelFuneralHomes.com

For all the latest Hays County news, visit

HaysFreePress.com

www.

www.HaysNewsDispatch.com

Kyle council considers roundabout ordinance

BY MEGAN WEHRING

we need to look at them very carefully to make KYLE — More sure that we determine roundabouts could be where we think we need making their way to city a roundabout. It gives us Kyle. the authority to do that.”

With a 6-1 vote, the Kyle Developers would City Council approved an need to request a waiver ordinance on first reading from the city and submit last week that would an explanation if they require the consideration wish not to include of implementing a roundabout, Barba roundabouts in certain explained. intersections. All Council member roundabouts must also be Robert Rizo said the designed and constructed city needs to have in compliance with specific regulations national standards. on constructing “It does not require roundabouts. every intersection to be “I’m glad that we roundabouts,” said Leon are able to put a plan Barba, city engineer. “But together where any future it gives us the opportunity roundabouts are going to look at the subdivisions to be built to a certain as they are coming and standard,” Rizo said.

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

Debbie Thames, Agent 251 N. FM 1626, Bldg. 2, Ste. C, Buda, Texas 78610 312-1917

Sudoku Solution

“They are not going to be built in a way that prohibits traffic.”

Council member Michael Tobias was the dissenting vote.

He raised his concerns for roundabouts being constructed near schools with pedestrian walkways, the drastic change in speed from about 50 miles per hour to 15 or 20 miles per hour, and emergency vehicles that have to travel through the small lanes.

“That’s the beauty of a roundabout,” Barba assured the council. “It does reduce accidents.

It does reduce the time through the intersection.

We are going to be looking at them very carefully.”

500 FM 150 E, Kyle, TX • 512 268-1611 • pawsshelter.org

All animals are fully vaccinated, spay/neutered, microchipped and dewormed.

sponsored by

Town & CounTry VeTerinary HospiTal Committed to your pet’s health since 1978

Bill Selman, DVM • Kayley Goldsmith, DVM • Ben Fox, DVM 6300 FM 1327 (East of I35 and Creedmoor) Austin, TX 78747 Give us a call at 512-385-0486

CHURCH OF CHRIST

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

Faith Assembly of God 1030 Main St., Buda

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

Southern Hills Church of Christ 3740 FM 967, Buda

The Connection Church 1235 S. Loop 4, Buda

EPISCOPAL

Antioch Community Church Old Black Colony Rd., Buda

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 Immanuel Baptist Church 4000 E. FM 150, 4 miles east of Kyle Center Union Baptist Church Goforth Rd., Buda Primera Mision Bautista Mexicana Kyle Baptist Church of Driftwood 13540 FM 150 W. CATHOLIC Santa Cruz Catholic Church 1100 Main Street, Buda

Texas Crossword, from page 4

PAWS Shelter of Central Texas

is a non-profit, no-kill shelter operated primarily on donations and adoptions.

ASSEMBLIES OF GOD

Southeast Baptist Church 5020 Turnersville Rd., Creedmoor

Texas Crossword Solution

Homer is a male, 1-year-old domestic shorthair mix.

This handsome gentleman loves to lounge, eat treats, and play with the staff and volunteers at PAWS. Got a jingle ball to chase? He’s got it! Maybe need help with your sandwich? He’s definitely got that!

Come worship with us

Sledge Chapel Missionary Baptist Church 709 Sewell, Kyle

Sudoku Puzzle, from page 4

Hondo is a male, 2-year-old Black Mouth Cur mix.

Hondo got his start on the rough Texas plains, but we know with a little TLC he will adjust to the good life and be a cuddly companion for his forever family.

He would do best in a quiet home with a large yard.

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

Mission Fellowship Church 200 San Marcos Street, Buda

Spring Water!

Privately owned From local springs FREE DELIVERY 1ST 20 GAL. FREE

Vertical Chapel 400 Old Post Road, Kyle A Fountain of Life Church 302 Millenium Dr. Kyle

Friendly, Courteous Service

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

Call 1-866-691-2369

Word of Life Christian Faith Center 118 Trademark Drive, Buda

BUDA

Por Tu Gracia Fellowship 701 Roland Lane, Kyle

DRUG STORE

203 Railroad Street Downtown Buda Pharmacy 312-2111 Fountain 312-2172

PENTECOSTAL Mision de Casa de Oracion S. Hwy. 81, Kyle

Journey United Methodist 4301 Benner Rd, Kyle, Tx

CHRISTIAN

St. Paul’s United Methodist Church 7206 Creedmoor Rd., Creedmoor

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

New Life Sanctuary Kyle Science Hall Elementary 1510 Bebee Rd. PRESBYTERIAN

First Baptist Church

A loving & caring Southern Baptist Church 104 S. San Marcos Street, Buda Buddy Johnson, Pastor • 295-2161 Sunday School...........................................9:30 a.m.

Morning Worship....................................10:45 a.m.

Wednesday Bible Study/Youth Activities...6:00 p.m.

AWANA’s (Wednesday)..........................6:00 p.m.

www.hayshills.org 1401 N. FM 1626

Pure Texas

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

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

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

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

Kingdom United Christian Church 100 Madison Way, Buda

Kyle United Methodist Church Sledge & Lockhart St., Kyle

9:30 a.m. Classic Service 10:45 a.m. Contemporary service

Hays Free Press

Completed & Perfected Faith Church Tobias Elementary Cafeteria, FM 150, Kyle

St. Anthony Marie Claret Church 801 N. Burleson, Kyle

Baptist Church

Like us on Facebook

Trinity United Chuch of Niederwald 13700 Camino Real, Hwy. 21, Niederwald

METHODIST

Hays Hills

TEXAS LEHIGH CEMENT CO. LP

Nursery Provided

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Your Hometown McDonald’s

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

512-312-2383

Locally owned and operated by Jimmy and Cindi Ferguson

Sunset Canyon Baptist Church 8:45 AM

Sunday Morning

11:00 AM

Sunday Worship

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Wednesday Meal

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(512) 894-0480

4000 E. HWY 290

Page 8

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • July 14, 2021

Classifieds PUBLIC NOTICES NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of Dixie Eileen Pate, Deceased, were issued on June 16, 2021, in Cause No. 21-0202-P, pending in the County Court at Law of Hays County, Texas, to Ellen Ann Pate, as Independent Executor. All persons having claims against the Estate which is currently being administered are required to present them within the time and in the manner prescribed by law. The address for claims is: Estate of Dixie Eileen Pate, c/o Stebler & Sulak, PLLC, 509 W. 18th St. Austin, Texas 78701 Date: July 12, 2021 Attorneys for the Independent Executor: Stebler & Sulak, PLLC, 509 W. 18th St.

NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO SUBDIVIDE

An application has been filed with HAYS COUNTY to resubdivide 6.8292 acres of property located along Thurman Roberts Way in Driftwood, TX 78619.

Information regarding the application may be obtained from Hays County Development Services (512) 393-2150. Tracking Number: PLN-1691-PC.

NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO SUBDIVIDE

An application has been submitted with HAYS COUNTY to subdivide 137.282 acres of property located at FM 2001, Niderwald, Texas 78640.

Information regarding the application may be obtained from Hays County Development Services (512) 393-2150. Tracking number: PLN-1733-NP.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of Roger Raymond Jaracz, Deceased, were issued on June 28, 2021, in Cause No. 21-0222P, pending in the County Court at Law No. 1, Hays County, Texas, to: Carolyn Patricia Andrews.

All persons having claims against this Estate which is currently being administered are required to present them to the undersigned within

the time and in the manner prescribed by law.

Carolyn Patricia Andrews c/o: Ryan V. Vickers 130 Hall Professional Center Kyle, Texas 78640 DATED the 8th day of July, 2021. /s/ Ryan V. Vickers Ryan V. Vickers Attorney for Carolyn Patricia Andrews State Bar No.: 24079518 130 Hall Professional Center Kyle, TX 78640 Telephone: (512) 268-6425 Facsimile: (512) 268-5404 E-mail: rvickers@ johnhalllawfirm.com

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The Buda City Council will hold a public hearing at its meeting to be held Tuesday August 3, 2021 at 5:30 PM in regards to Zoning Map Amendment from Interstate 35 Business (B-3) to Light Industrial (LI) for the properties known as Lifschultz Subdivision, lots 52, 53 and 54, City of Buda, Hays County Texas. The properties are addressed as 108, 110, and 112 Rodriguez Street, Buda, TX 78610 (Z 21-02) The meeting will be held in the Council Chambers at Buda City Hall, 405 E. Loop St. Building 100, Buda, TX 78610. For more information regarding this matter as well as any questions, please contact the City of Buda Planning Department at (512) 312-5745.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of Elwanda Jean Rexroat, Deceased, were issued on June 28,2021, in Cause No. 21-0233-P, pending in the County Court at Law No. 3, Hays County, Texas, to: Pleasant Franklin Rexroat.

All persons having claims against this Estate which is currently being administered are required to present them to the undersigned within the time and in the manner prescribed by law. c/o: Ryan V. Vickers Attorney at Law 130 Hall Professional Center Kyle, TX 78640 DATED the 8th day of July,

2021.

Ryan V. Vickers Attorney for Pleasant Franklin Rexroat State Bar No.: 24079518 130 Hall Professional Center Kyle, TX 78640 Telephone: (512) 268-6425 Facsimile: (512) 268-5404 E-mail: rvickers@ johnhalllawfirm.com

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Notice is hereby given that on the 16th day of June, 2021, Letters Testamentary upon the Estate of Martha L. Foster, Deceased, were issued to Robert Bruce Foster, as Independent Executor of said Estate, in proceedi­ngs in the County Court at Law No. 3 of Hays County, Texas, numbered 210221-P, and pending in said Court and that he now holds such letters.

All persons having claims against the Estate are hereby required to present the same to the said Robert Bruce Foster, as Independent Executor of said Estate, at the post office address given below and within the time prescribed by law.

The address of Jovana Popovich, the registered agent for Robert Bruce Foster, is as follows: Jovana Popovich 5718 Westheimer Road, Ste. 1750 Houston, Harris County, TX 77057 Dated the 9th day of July, 2021.

FIZER, BECK, WEBSTER, BENTLEY & SCROGGINS, a professional corporation

By Jovana Popovich State Bar No.: 24079152 Attorneys for Robert Bruce Foster, Independent Executor of the Estate of Martha L. Foster, Deceased 5718 Westheimer Road, Suite 1750 Houston, Texas 77057

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON REVISING WATER SERVICE LAND USE ASSUMPTIONS, CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN AND IMPACT FEES FOR COUNTY LINE SPECIAL UTILITY DISTRICT

Notice is hereby given pursuant to Texas Local Government Code, Chapter 395 that the Board of

Directors for County Line Special Utility District will hold a public hearing at its regular meeting, open to the public, on Monday, August 16, 2021 at 6:30 p.m., located at the County Line Special Utility District office, 8870 Camino Real, Uhland, Texas 78640. The purpose of the hearing is to consider the revision of the land use assumptions, capital improvement plan and impact fees. Any member of the public has the right to appear at the hearing and present evidence for or against the plan and proposed fee.

HAYS CISD, NEGLEY ES ADDITIONS & RENOVATIONS PROPOSAL INFORMATION PACKET

Subcontractor & Supplier Proposal Information Bartlett Cocke General contractors, Construction Manager-at-Risk, for: Negley ES Additions & Renovations, is requesting competitive proposals from subcontractors and suppliers.

Subcontractor and supplier proposals will be received via Fax to (512) 326-4339 or (512) 326- 3990 or via email to bidaus@bartlettcocke.com no later than 2:00:00 PM on 7/29/2021. Any proposals received after this time will not be accepted.

Electronic copies of the proposal documents may be obtained from Bartlett Cocke or viewed at local and online planrooms. Contact Stefan Doerr via email Sdoerr@ bartlettcocke.com or phone (512) 326-4223 to make arrangements.

Small, Woman Owned, Disadvantaged, HUB, HUBZone, 8(a), Minority, and all similar firms are encouraged to submit proposals on this project.

Bartlett Cocke General Contractors is an equal opportunity (EEO) employer.

NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO SUBDIVIDE

An application has been submitted with HAYS COUNTY to subdivide 7.93 acres of property located at along 1068 Satterwhite Road, Buda, TX 78610. Information regarding the application may be obtained from Hays County Development Services (512) 393-2150.

Tracking number: PLN-1608PC.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Morningstar Storage wishes to avail themselves of the Texas Provision of chapter 59 of the Texas Property Code by conducting a Public Sale to the highest bidder for cash on their premises.

This sale is listed below.

The company reserves the right to reject any bid and withdraw any from the sale at any time.

Date : 07/28/2021 Time: 10:00 AM Location: Storage Auctions.com Unit: A120 Jennifer Cantu Baby Bed, Dining Room Table , Corner Etagere , Boxes, totes, dryer, glider, TV\VHS player combo, Bags clothes

NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO SUBDIVIDE

An application has been filed with HAYS COUNTY to subdivide 37.982 AC of property into 3 lots located at and along SH-45 and FM 1626 in Austin, TX 78652.

Information regarding the application may be obtained from Hays County Development Services (512) 393-2150. Tracking Number PLN-1726-NP.

PUBLIC NOTICE

The Hays County Development Services Department hereby gives notice of the County’s intent to revise the flood hazard information, generally. For more information, contact Anne Taylor, ataylor@cecinc.com, 512318-9877.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Of property to satisfy a landlord’s lien. Sale to be held online at Storagetreasures. com by competitive bid.

Anytime Storage, LLC 880 Windy Hill Rd. Kyle, TX 78640 Sale will be ending on or after July 29, 2021 at 11 AM. Cleanup deposit is required.

Seller reserves the right to withdraw the property at any time before the sale.

The property contents of all storage unit(s) sold at this sale are purchased “as is” “where is” for CASH/CREDIT. Unit items sold for cash to the highest bidder. All Units have some miscellaneous household items, boxes, furniture. Property includes the contents of spaces of the following tenant(s): MARTIN WIERS: bedding vacuum; MARTIN WIERS: beds, lamps.

Public Notice Notice of Public Hearing LEGAL NOTICE Board of Adjustment Application has been made with the Texas Alcoholic

Beverage Commission for an Original Wine and beer retailer’s off-premise permit, by OKLAHOMA NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO ALL QUIKTRIP BEVERAGE CORPORATION dba INTERESTED THAT: QUIKTRIP #4154 toPERSONS, be located at 18720 IH-35, Kyle, Hays County, TX 78640. Joseph S. Faust, President; Jennifer G. Harlow.

V. Pres.; The City of Kyle shallRobert hold L.a Purnell, publicV.hearing on Pres; Tina L. Caldwell, Treas/Secre.; Susan E. Hunt, request byMarshall Noel and Maria (1417 & 142 Asst.

Secre.; J. Wells, Asst.Campos Secre.; Lora Bunton Creek Road) a variance to Lot Widt L. Zumwalt, Asst. Secre.; Lisafor K. Deys, Asst. Secre.; Jimmy Brown, Jr., Asst. Secre. and Side Setbacks for Sec. 53-33 (Chart 1) and

variance to Lot depth exceeding 5:1 ratio in Sec 41-136 Lots (c) Side Lot Lines of the City of Kyl Notice of Public Hearing Code of Ordinances.

(BOA-21-0005) Board of Adjustment

Notice is hereby Given to all interested persons, that: The public hearing will be held by the Board o The City of Kyle on shall Monday, hold a public August hearing on a2,request Adjustment 2021, at 6:3

by Noel and Maria Campos (1417 & 1425 Bunton Creek P.M. more pleaseforcontact th Road) for For a variance to Lotinformation, Width and Side Setbacks Sec. 53-33 (Chart 1) and a variance to Lot depth exceeding Planning Department at 512-262-1010.

5:1 ratio in Sec. 41-136 Lots (c) Side Lot Lines of the City of Kyle Code of Ordinances. (BOA-21-0005)

All interested encouraged to attend th The public hearing persons will be heldare by the Board of Adjustment on Monday, August and 2, 2021, at 6:30 P.M. virtual public hearing express their opinion For more information, please contact the Planning on the variance request.

Department at 512-262-1010.

All interested persons are encouraged to attend the

virtualis public hearingas andaexpress their opinions on the This planned hybrid meeting taking place variance request.

At 100 W. Center Street, Kyle, Texas 78640.

This is planned as a hybrid meeting taking place https://www.cityofkyle.com/kyletv/kyle-10-live At 100 W. Center Street, Kyle, Texas 78640. https://www.cityofkyle.com/kyletv/kyle-10-live

Hays Free Press • July 14, 2021

Page 9

Classifieds HOME FOR RENT

GARAGE SALES

LARGE HOME IN COUNTRY SETTING

GARAGE SALE Large garage sale Saturday the 17th from 7am to 3pm at 1111 Roland Lane Kyle Tx next to Texas Old Town

Four BR, 2.5 bath, two living rooms, fire place, large office. Sits on 3/4 acre. Will be available in August 2021.

Easy access to Hays High $2,300/month. Includes water & trash, Small dogs (under 20 pounds) allowed with nonrefundable deposit. Call for information. Cyndy, 512-7532700.

GARAGE SALE Saturday, June 17,7AM -2PM, 109 Pedernales Dr. Kyle, TX.

ONION CREEK COMMUNITY-WIDE GARAGE SALE Saturday, July 24, 7 am-2 pm, rain or shine!

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.

SEEKING EXPERIENCED METAL BUILDING ERECTORS

Crew members for Pre Engineered Metal Building Erection. Reliable Transportation is required.

Most work is in the Austin/ San Antonio. For more info, call Ethan Wright, EthanWright@HCSETX.com, 737-265-0975.

TIM KINGSLEY PLUMBING LLC

MASTER LICENSES # 15759 Looking for a Repair Plumber and New Construction Plumber.

Benefits offered and salary negotiable.

Call Matt Kingsey 512 487-1787

EXPERIENCED PAINTER

Busy Body Shop, auto, buses and trucks. Please call if interested, 512 7381238.

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

NEWSPAPER HELP WANTED We have several positions open that might be great for retirees, budding photographers, sports junkees or sales person.

• Advertising Sales position available for our newspapers, websites and various magazines. We are looking for an assertive and creative sales person to fill an immediate opening in the marketing sales department. The successful candidate will pick up a base account list, but will be focused on new business development. The ideal candidate has prior sales experience, preferably with a newspaper or other media. Other related sales experience with a proven track record of closing sales and growing customer base will be considered. Candidate will be aggressive in achieving personal and company goals and excellent at building professional relationships with customers. This full-time position is a Monday-Friday normal business hours kind of job, but some evening events might be necessary. Remember, you eat what you kill! A good driving record, dependable transportation and willingness to travel within and around Hays County and the suburban Austin area are a must for this position. The successful candidate will receiving training and a compensation guarantee during initial training period. A base pay/commission and benefits package is also included.

Submit resume and cover letter to: Tracy Mack Tracy@haysfreepress.com

Don’t get left behind.

• Are you a sports aficionado? Does the thought of keeping stats invigorate your senses?

Do you also enjoy putting pen to paper and writing? If that sounds like you or someone you know, you could be the person we’re looking for. Barton Publications is looking for a few individuals who can help cover our local high school sports scene for the 2021-2022 season. Those interested should send a resume and at least three writing samples to csb@ haysfreepress.com with the subject line, “Sports Coverage.” For more information, email Hays & Travis counties: 1 year for $42 csb@haysfreepress.com.

Keep up to date with Hays County’s best local news sources. Send form or call today.

Call 512-268-7862 or email

• Are you a budding photographer that just wants to get your name out? We are looking for gig photographer topaper@haysfreepress.com shoot sports or local events. Those interested should send a resume and photo samples to csb@haysfreepress.com with the subject line, “Photographer.” For more information, email csb@haysfreepress.com.

NEWS FROM AROUND THE STATE

Texas Legislature returns for special session The Texas Legislature convened in special session last Thursday and GOP legislators introduced a fresh set of voting bills after Democrats blocked an earlier attempt during the regular session by walking out in May, preventing a quorum.

HB3 and SB 1 don’t include some of the more controversial measures that were in the previous bill, such as restricting voting on Sundays. KUT. org reported the new bills include new ID requirements for people voting by mail and banning local election officials from sending vote-by-mail applications that have not been requested by the applicant.

The measures, still largely opposed by Democrats and voting rights groups, also ban drive-through voting and extended hours during early voting.

Those backing the new bills say those extended hours encourage voter fraud, though there is no evident of widespread fraud during the 2020 election. Republican lawmakers are pushing for a full House floor vote this week.

Gov. Greg Abbott announced the topics to be considered during the special session the day before it opened.

Besides the voting bills, they include: • Bail reform to “protect the public from accused criminals who may be released on bail.”

• Border security with increased funding to support law-enforcement agencies and counties.

• Social media censorship legislation to protect social-media users from being silenced by social media companies based on their viewpoints.

• Restoring funding to the Legislature and legislative agencies that was vetoed by Abbott after the walkout.

• Family violence prevention legislation to provide funding for education to middle school and high school students about dating violence, domestic violence and child abuses.

Parents would have the right to opt their children out of such programs.

• Youth sports measures to revive legislation passed by the Senate that bans transgender students from participating in UIL

Capital Highlights

by Gary Borders

athletic competitions “designated for the sex opposite to the student’s sex at birth.”

• Abortion-inducing drugs legislation that would prohibit providing such drugs by mail or delivery service.

• Thirteenth Check legislation to allow a one-time supplemental payment of benefits under the Teacher Retirement System of Texas.

• Bills targeting “critical race theory” and restricting how current events and the country’s history of racism is taught in Texas public schools.

• Appropriation bills targeting property-tax relief, protecting children in the state’s foster-care system and safeguarding the state from potential cybersecurity threats.

PUC ORDERED TO IMPROVE ELECTRIC RELIABILITY Abbott also last week directed the Public Utility Commission to make major changes “to ensure the reliability of the Texas power grid,” the Houston Chronicle and other media outlets reported.

Abbott asked the PUC, which oversees the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, to improve maintenance on power plants and speed development of some transmission projects.

“The objective of these directives is to ensure that all Texans have access to reliable, safe, and affordable power,” Abbott wrote in a letter released last Tuesday.

In response, PUC chairman Peter Lake in a letter to Abbott expressed “wholehearted agreement with its contents.” Besides the widespread blackout during the mid-February storm, a heat wave in June prompted ERCOT, which maintains the state’s electric grid, to urge Texans to conserve electricity as usage approached peak capacity.

$4.1 BILLION MORE IN SCHOOL STIMULUS FUNDS Texas will receive another $4.1 billion in federal stimulus funding for its public schools,

the San Antonio Express-News reported.

The U.S. Department of Education announced last week that it had approved the state’s plans for spending $12.4 billion that was allocated to the state. According to the Express-News, the top priority for the Texas Education Agency is bolstering the mental and emotional health needs of Texas students by expanding tutoring and other methods.

TEA estimates Texas students lost 5.7 months of learning during the pandemic school year.

“The approval of these plans enables states to receive vital, additional American Rescue Plan funds to quickly and safely reopen schools for full-time, in-person learning; meet students’ academic, social, emotional, and mental health needs; and address disparities in access to educational opportunity that were exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic,” Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona said in a news release.

NUMBER OF COVID-19 CASES IN STATE RISES At 12,426, the number of new COVID-19 cases in Texas increased 18% in the past week when compared to the previous week, according to the Coronavirus Resource Center at Johns Hopkins University.

The number of new deaths in the past week dropped slightly to 151. Hospitalizations of lab-confirmed COVID-19 patients in the state were on the rise, with 1,927 currently in Texas hospitals as of Sunday, according to Texas Department of State Health Services.

The number of Texans fully vaccinated crossed the 12 million mark this week, DSHS reported.

The rate of vaccinations in the state has slowed significantly in recent weeks, despite troubling reports of the spread of the delta variant of COVID-19.

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

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NEWS

Hays Free Press • July 14, 2021

Hays County residents sees uptick in COVID-19 cases

BY SAHAR CHMAIS

Hays County is seeing an uptick in active COVID-19 cases and an increase in hospitalization due to the virus.

Since June 14, active infection rates in Hays County have varied between 120 to 199 active cases, recorded every two days. After the July 10 weekend, that number spiked to 277 active

cases. COVID-19-related deaths in the county have reached 264.

There are 15 county residents hospitalized with the virus as of July 12, a rise from eight hospitalizations as of July 8 and 9.

Nearly 40% of active cases are coming out of Kyle, with 109 active infections. San Marcos has 77 and Buda has 54 active cases. Wimberley has 14

Since June 14, active infection rates in Hays County have varied between 120 to 199 active cases, recorded every two days.

active cases, Dripping Springs has 11, Austin has nine and Niederwald has three active infections.

Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) tests for the

Delta variant; so far, Hays County has not received confirmation of this strain within the county.

To prevent further spread of the virus, Hays County recommends that residents take the

vaccine, a method that has shown efficacy rates against COVID-19 and its variants. Children 12 and older can be vaccinated.

The vaccine is free to anybody, with locations across the county. Private pharmacies, such as HEB and CVS are giving the vaccine along with clinics provided by the county.

Hays County also has a mobile vaccination program which goes to

homes and businesses. For more about the vaccine, visit www. hayscountytx.com/ covid-19-information-for-hays-county-residents/.

Additional methods to slow the spread of the virus, as advised by the county, include avoiding large crowds of people, wearing a mask, hand washing and social distancing.

Austin-Bergstrom to undergo largest expansion in history

BY SAHAR CHMAIS If you recently travelled through the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (ABIA), chances are there was a longer wait than most have been accustomed to. The airport is working to fix the overcrowding issue through a massive expansion.

Contracting and public engagement opportunities are slated to begin in late summer 2021, with the airport’s most extensive improvement program in its history.

The pandemic’s impact played a hand in rethinking travel and how the airport plans to meet the need created by

COVID-19. The Airport Expansion Development Program (AEDP) includes components of the 2040 Master Plan that meet the immediate needs of passengers and airlines, according to ABIA’s press release.

“AUS is an economic engine in our community, already providing thou-

sands of jobs,” said Gina Fiandaca, Assistant City Manager for Austin’s Mobility Outcome. “Through this new program, AUS will be able to meet the needs of Austinites, Central Texas and global travelers while driving regional economic recovery.”

ABIA has seen a growth

in travel since March 2021, and summer 2021 activity is on track to match, or surpass, 2019 air travel activity.

IMPROVEMENTS WILL INCLUDE: • Optimization of the Barbara Jordan Terminal

• Enabling airfield and utility work to include building a new Central Utility Plant and removing existing structures to prepare for construction activities • Preparing for a new Midfield Concourse with 10+ new gates and two new taxiways

CDC School Guidelines Continued from pg. 1

of 12 and 15 vaccinated with one dose, and 2,937 fully vaccinated kids in that age range. Children under 12 are not yet authorized to receive the vaccine.

Pfizer and BioNTech began vaccine trials in children six months old to 11 years old in March 2021. Vaccines have proven effective against the Delta variant, but infection and spread among the vaccinated population is still possible.

Schools are also encouraged to space students at least three feet apart, but if maintaining this distance prevents schools from fully reopening, other strategies can be used. These include indoor masking, increased COVID-19 testing and

enhanced ventilation.

Unvaccinated individuals are highly encouraged to wear masks, according to the new guidance.

Although the CDC has cited studies showing transmissions in schools can be lower or equal to community spread when preventions are put in place, the new Delta variant is more highly transmissible than previous COVID-19 variants.

The Delta variant is the predominant strain that is circulating in the U.S. Hays County has not yet released information on Delta within the county, as these tests are administered by the state and they have yet to receive that information.

Kyle Market Days

Kyle Market Days continues every second Saturday of the Month throught Sept.

12 at GreggClarke Park. In addition to food and craft vendors, tap dance extraordinaire Movin’ Melvin entertained crowds at last weekend’s event.

PHOTOS BY DAVID WHITE

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