August 26, 2020 News-Dispatch by Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch

AUGUST 26, 2020 GOT SHOT?

HAYS LEADS

Flu vaccinations urged amid Coronavirus

Hays leads five-county area in key real estate markers in July

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News-Dispatch

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HaysNewsDispatch.com

Vol. 40 • No. 46

Serving Hays County, TX

Kyle City Council puts a fork in Fajita Drive While the Rebel sparked “There are many ways, so many ways to its own controversy, city Public outcry was raised council voted Aug.18 to honor the late great Sonny Falcon. Fajita after the recent renaming rename the road to Fajita Drive is a joke and Kyle, Texas, is not.” of Rebel Drive to Fajita Drive per Mayor Travis Drive. Kyle City Council Mitchell’s suggestion. –Joseph Fenity, former Kyle resident expressed their sentiments Mitchell said the decision for the aftermath of the was meant to bring a original vote in a special more positive name to the any disputes within the “I felt that the entirety meeting Aug. 25. road, rather than creating community. of the council had the best

BY MEGAN WEHRING

Cite & Divert delayed until Oct. 1

interests of the community at heart even if the action that we took was one where the public was just not on the same page as we were,” Mitchell said. Frank Molina, Kyle area veteran, questioned the city council’s decision to name a road after a person

Caring during COVID

STAFF REPORT HAYS COUNTY – County officials have delayed the implementation of the Cite & Divert policy past the original Sept. 1 date in order to better comply with the latest COVID-19 related guidelines from Gov. Greg Abbott. Abbott pushed back to Oct. 1 guidelines concerning in-person court functions and, Hays County District Attorney Wes Mau said, the start of the policy at most county law enforcement agencies was changed “to coincide” with the relaxation of those guidelines. The policy was announced in early July by Mau and Sheriff Gary Cutler and would apply within the Hays County Sheriffs Office and the police departments of Kyle, Buda, San Marcos and Texas State University. The move is a step beyond the Cite & Release policy adopted by San Marcos police department earlier this year in that it gives officers the discretion to allow certain offenders the chance to avoid the criminal justice system entirely and keep their record clean. “We also have some work to do coordinating the process with our pretrial services office and with the defense bar to address issues raised by the defense counsel representative,” Mau said during the most recent meeting of the county’s Criminal Justice Commission, which met last week.

that some residents may not recognize. “Though the action on this council was done with good intentions, I feel it wasn’t thought out very well,” Molina said. “My only question was: Why

RENAMING REBEL DRIVE, 6

Suspect in police pursuit, exchange of gunfire dies BY ANITA MILLER

dences on Thursdays and Sundays. Commercial, mixed use and multi-family properties have designated days of Tuesdays and Fridays. Although twice weekly is allowed, limiting

WIMBERLEY – The Texas Rangers have launched an investigation into an officer-involved shooting following the death of the suspect in an incident HARRINGTON Aug. 20 that began in Wimberley. Nathan Harrington, 43, was pronounced dead at a local hospital by Pct. 2 Justice of the Peace Beth Smith. His last known address was in Pflugerville, reports show, although online records indicate he was a resident of Kyle when booked into Hays County Jail in 2017 and 2019. One deputy was injured during the Thursday incident. Lt. Dennis Gutierrez did not name the deputy but said his injuries were the result of a vehicle crash. He did not elaborate on the circumstances, but did say Monday that the deputy was fine, having received only bruises. Harrington came to the attention of authorities around 4:40 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20 when deputies responded to the Exxon station in the 14000 block of Ranch Road 12 in Wimberley for a report of a possibly suicidal subject. Subsequently, they learned the man had stolen a vehicle and was headed north on RR 12 toward Dripping Springs. While being pursued by Hays County deputies and a Texas Highway Patrol trooper, the suspect vehicle turned east on FM 150 and was brought to a stop by a “pursuit immobilization technique.” Once the suspect vehicle was stopped, Harrington began firing a weapon and deputies responded.

WATER RESTRICTIONS, 7

SHOOTING DEATH, 10

Pulling people up with pulled pork sandwiches BY ANITA MILLER WIMBERLEY – He is, admittedly, out in the “middle of nowhere.” But actually, given the constantly-connected state we’re all a part of nowadays, Rob Moon is right around the corner. Moreover, Moon recognizes that because of COVID-19 and other factors, people everywhere are hurting. Believing a hand up is better than a hand out, Moon figured his best way to help was simple: Putting a free pulledpork sandwich in every hand that needs one. From his driveway at 5995 Mount Gainor Road between Wimberley and Dripping Springs, Moon gives out free sandwiches every Thursday from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., averaging about 30 sandwiches a week, which he says for four is about a $20 value. Since the first week in June, Moon has been smoking pork every Wednesday, then giving away sandwiches the

From his driveway at 5995 Mount Gainor Road, Rob Moon gives out free sandwiches every Thursday from 4:30 to 7 p.m.

“I just wanted to do something, with the COVID situation and millions unemployed. “Back in these hills where I live are a lot of working class people. I thought probably I could do something to help people at the margins. –Rob Moon, Dripping Springs resident

next day from under a colorful canopy decorated in red, white and blue. “I just wanted to do something,” he said, “with the COVID situation and millions unemployed. “Back in these hills where I live are a lot of working class people. I thought probably I could do something to help people

at the margins. People are very, very thankful when they stop.” Moon has also launched a web page, helpinhandsbbq, which includes a quote from Oscar Wilde: “One is not always happy when one is good; but one is always good when one is happy.” Each Tuesday, Moon

puts out homemade signs for free barbecue in tough times. To be sure, his ranch is remote, located “25 minutes from civilization, halfway between Wimberley and Dripping Springs.” Even so, stopping by his little stand is catching on. About onethird of his business each week is repeat customers, others simply saw the signs. “I think people are starting to spread the word a little bit,” he says. “The last two weeks I had people from Henly, 30 miles away.” Moon says he’s in it for the long haul, though he’s ready to be done with 100-degree heat. “I look forward to doing this in October, look at it that way.”

Buda enters Stage 1 water restrictions STAFF REPORT

BUDA – This week, Stage 1 water restrictions will go into effect for those who get their water from Buda’s municipal system. Weeks of no consistent rainfall and higher

than normal demands prompted the measure, officials said. Watering with a handheld or soaker hose or handheld bucket or drip irrigation system is allowed at any time. However, doing so with a sprin-

RE-OPENING PLAN

Dripping Springs and Wimberley ISD prioritize student safety during school re-opening.

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kler attached to a hose or automatic sprinkler system is limited to between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. twice a week: • Odd-numbered residences are allowed to water on Wednesdays and Saturdays; even-numbered resi-

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

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NEWS

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • August 26, 2020

Jobless numbers and claims fall in Kyle and Hays County BY ANITA MILLER

The state’s lowest unemployment rate in July was the Amarillo Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) at 5.1%. Next came the College StationBryan MSA at 5.8%.

food service (3,945), health care and social assistance Both the unemployment (3,815), and construction rate and the number of (3,460). claims for jobless benefits On Aug. 21, Gov. Greg fell in July, according to Abbott officially approved figures released by the Texas a $300 weekly federal Workforce Commission benefit President Donald (TWC) on Friday, Aug. 21. Trump announced over Hays County and Kyle a week earlier. Earlier this 13.3% in April. In March, Regarding claims for both saw decreases as week, the TWC had offiKyle’s rate was 3.8%. unemployment benefits, well, with both staying Texas, the TWC said, had claims filed in Hays County cially applied for the funds, under figures reported for an unemployment rate of peaked at 2,475 during the which would partially the state as a whole. replace the $600 weekly 8% in July, down from 11.1% week ending April 4. By Hays County’s July in June, 13.3% in May and the week that ended Aug. 8 the federal government last jobless rate was 7%, down 14.7% in April. The pre-pan- that number had dropped paid at the end of July. from 7.7% in June, 11.8% Trump had promised demic March rate was 4.4%. to 241. in May and 12.8% in April. unemployed workers $400 The state’s lowest unemThe largest number of In March, before the a week but didn’t commit ployment rate in July was claims filed statewide the COVID-19 pandemic hit, it the Amarillo Metropolitan week that ended Aug. 8 the federal government was 3.9%, and it had been Statistical Area (MSA) at to more than $300, saying were from administration near that figure for many the states would supply 5.1%. Next came the College and support and waste months prior. an additional $100 weekly. Station-Bryan MSA at 5.8%. management and remeIn Kyle, the July rate was Abbott’s statement did not The rate for the Ausdiation services (4,609) 7.1%, down from 7.6% in address that $100 weekly tin-Round Rock MSA was followed by retail trade June, 11.8% in May and additional benefit. 7.3%. (4,116, accomodation and

County seeks input on plans for SH 21 SAN MARCOS – Hays and Caldwell county residents are asked to take a second look at long-range planning along the SH 21 corridor as part of a virtual Town Hall. The roadway, which connects portions of eastern Hays County with Caldwell County, is also a major thoroughfare between San Marcos and Bastrop. This second Virtual Town Hall on SH 21 runs through Sept. 1. Hays County, in cooperation with neighboring Caldwell County, is gathering public input about improvements and right-ofway preservation along SH 21 from SH 80 to S 130. The state highway, also known as Camino Real because it follows roughly along the old Spanish “Kings Road,” connects some of the fastest growing communities in all of Texas. Now SH 21 – on the eastern border of Hays County – is being studied to make it easier, and safer, to travel. This long-term corridor preservation study – funded by bond money approved by Hays County voters in 2016 – aims to gather feedback on highway improvements that are necessary due to the rapid growth the region has already seen, and the anticipated growth the county expects will continue. The study will focus on one of the critical sections of the road, an approximately 17-mile stretch of the highway between its intersection with SH 80 in San Marcos and the Hays County line near U.S. 183 at the Travis County line, close to Niederwald. Hays County is cooperating with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and other local governments on the project. In this second virtual Town Hall for the roadway,

Hays County and the project team are reporting back on comments heard in May’s first Town Hall (also virtual), present options for possible solutions and roadway improvements along SH 21, and ask for more opinions and feedback from citizens about these options. Additionally, the virtual Town Hall will feature a welcome video by Hays County Commissioners Mark Jones, Pct. 2, and Debbie Ingalsbe, Pct. 1. “Over 1,300 people participated in our first virtual Town Hall and gave their opinions,” Jones said. “We want to welcome these residents – and others – back to see our progress and let us know their thoughts once again. It’s important that the solutions we come up with are community based and protect the us reach that goal.” character and historic opportunity to be heard. The Virtual Town Hall elements of our region. Commissioner Ingalsbe Involving the public at key website offers those who wish to submit feedback an steps in the process helps INPUT SOUGHT FOR SH21, 7

Kyle special election for $47 million bond set for November BY MEGAN WEHRING

our new facility.” Proposition B is a KYLE – Kyle voters $10 million bond that will consider two bond will give $7 million for propositions on the a regional sportsplex Nov. 3 ballot. and festival grounds, $2 Proposition A is a million to upgrade the $37 million bond for Plum Creek trail and $1 a new public safety million for a skate park facility, specifically a at Gregg Clark Park. new police station and The estimated tax rate emergency operations impact for an average center. The estimated homestead in Kyle is tax rate impact for an 0.0201 per $100. average homestead Council member in Kyle, valuing at Robert Rizo said new $215,762, is 0.0744 per city parks, along with $100. improving those alMayor Travis Mitchready in place, would ell said a new police provide opportunities station would profor all members of the vide officers with the community. necessary equipment “Something I always to effectively do their think about is the jobs. health of our citizens,” “No locker rooms, Rizo said. “So havno training equiping that trail system, ment in our police having the skate park facility,” Mitchell said. and having places for “We struggle to mainkids to play soccer will tain ADA compliance get them out of those because the buildvideo games and out ing wasn’t built for a into breathing fresh air. police department. That’s where we can It was built a long win as a city is promottime ago for a bank ing health.” and we spent a very Mitchell said the small amount to try to bond would bring a retrofit that building so little something to the the police department city of Kyle for every could use it.” resident. Chief of Police Jeff “Whether you love Barnett said the desoccer, whether you partment could use a love taking walks, new facility to provide whether you love skatadditional services that ing, the city of Kyle has were not previously a need,” Mitchell said. available. “This bond has the “One of the things we potential to allow for us hope to be able to do to expand on all those with a new facility is to offerings.” better serve the comBonds are planned munity,” Barnett said. to be issued for March “Especially in areas of or April 2021 with the mental health, victim tax impact planned services and the treatfor fiscal year 2022, if ment of our victims will approved by voters in be at the forefront of November 2020.

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Opinion

QUOTE OF THE WEEK “Back in these hills where I live are a lot of working class people. I thought probably I could do something to help people at the margins. –Rob Moon, Dripping Springs resident. Story on page 1.

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • August 26, 2020

Page 3

Rebels love Fajitas

here are two reasons I live here in the Buda/ Kyle area. Mainly because I live on a small ranch that’s been in our family for several generations, and secondly, I did not want to live in the big city just north of here where it is plumb weird and the citizens want to keep it that way. Buda and Kyle used to be small Texas towns, but both towns have evolved into citified suburbs of Austin. We have numerous subdivisions, horrific traffic and overcrowded schools, but it also appears some of the idiotic stuff the Austin city council does has oozed down into the city of Kyle. Due to the constant desire to eradicate all American history that occurred in the 1860s, members of Kyle’s city government have decided to rename Rebel Road because, God forbid, the name might offend someone who doesn’t realize the Civil War ended in 1865. Okay, thanks to the KKK and some depilated racists, we had to get rid of the Confederate flag, and then “Dixie” became offensive, leaving the band at Hays High School to come up with some new fight song to play at the games of the Hays Football Team, once known as the mighty Rebels. So now, what name do the profound minds in the city council come up with to replace Rebel Road? Fajita Drive. Oh, yeah, you read that right. Of all the possible street names available, this road gets named after a dang taco. Don’t get me wrong, I love fajitas. I’ve eaten them ever since the early 1980s when a friend grilled up some marinated flank steak. Just writing about fajitas has caused me to wipe drool of my keyboard several times. By naming a street after a delicious fajita taco, I’m afraid there may be some local residents who simply don’t like fajitas. Or perhaps fajitas cause painful acid reflux and they are reminded of trips to an ER believing they are suffering a heart attack. These sensitive Tums-popping residents might find the new name offensive. Other residents might prefer a different entrée when they go to a Mexican food restaurant. Should another street be named

Crow’s Nest by Clint Younts

Tamale Turnpike or Burrito Boulevard? Lengua Lane has a nice ring to it. How about renaming the section of I-35 that runs through Kyle the Frijole Freeway? Oh, wait, what about other ethnic food? We can’t neglect other residents of Kyle. Over on Center Street, there’s the Chinese restaurant East Buffet. How about changing Center Street to Chow Mein Street? Across the interstate, we could get a bucket of fried chicken on Popeye’s Parkway and pick up some dessert on Apple Pie Trail. If the city council is going to rename the streets after good vittles, then they should go whole hog. The city of Kyle was founded in 1880. Lots of important folks lived there between then and now. Couldn’t the astute council members find at least one name in the history books to rename Rebel Road? Or the name of a native plant or critter? Armadillo Avenue sounds a lot better than Fajita Drive, I’ll tell you what. I’m guessing the evening the council was sitting around debating what to call the road, somebody’s stomach growled and he said, “I’ve got a hankerin’ for fajitas”. How else does such an inane suggestion for a street name pop up in a government assemblage? I understand there’s a petition going around asking to rename Fajita Drive to something that doesn’t sound like it intersects Sesame Street. If the city council had just asked the residents of Kyle for their opinion, I doubt we’d be having this discussion, but those elected officials thought it was a fine choice and ordered up new street signs. If you ask me, I think a more appropriate name for that street would be Birdbrain Bureaucrat Boulevard. Clint Younts loves his fajitas. We wonder if he would like a street named after him? That might be called Goofy Grove. crowsnest78610 @gmail.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 News Editor Anita Miller Sports Editor Moses Leos III Reporters Megan Wehring, Sahar Chmais, Chase Rogers

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

Arlene Monroe David White, Distribution

CORRECTIONS

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

Small business survival essential for recovery

etaining and expanding businesses of all sizes in Hays and Caldwell counties is an effective tool used by the Greater San Marcos Partnership (GSMP) to help grow our region’s economy. Now more than ever though, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, retaining and assisting small business is essential to reach a full economic recovery. Small business makes up approximately 99.7% of our country’s employer firms, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration. Small businesses also make up a significant number of employers in the Greater San Marcos region. They provide a strong economic engine enhancing the local tax base, as well as keeping dollars circulated in our economy. Keeping these small businesses financially stable is a critical part of COVID-19 economic recovery. Our economic development partners in communities across our two-county footprint have recognized this re-

Guest Column by Jason Giulietti

ality and have responded by providing a number of financial resources for those small businesses. For example, as part of a county-wide collaboration, the Emergency Cash Assistance Program (ECAP) grant fund will deploy $600,000 in grants to local businesses in Hays County. Applications are being accepted now, with all the details available at HaysCountyECAP.com. This free financial resource, which was developed by the Hays County Commissioners Court, and supported by the financial institution PeopleFund, GSMP, and the city of Kyle, which contributed $100,000 to the grant fund. Other grant funds have also been established throughout the region. In San Marcos through the Revive SMTX program, businesses can apply

for up to $5,000 to help pay for operation safety, training, PPE and other business needs. In Buda, the #StillBudaful Small Business Loan Program is offering interest-free loans of up to $10,000 that can be forgiven under qualifying circumstances. In the city of Dripping Springs, the COVID-19 Disaster Relief Program for Businesses has waived wastewater fees for commercial properties, discounted permits and inspections, and removed sign permits in an effort to sustain business endeavors. In Caldwell County, the Luling Economic Development Corporation Grant Assistance Program offered grants of $3,000. The Lockhart Chamber of Commerce and Caldwell County Community Services Foundation Business Grant Assistance Program is offering $2,500 grants for qualifying small businesses. Lastly, our partners at Workforce Solutions Rural Capital Area (WSRCA) have been busy as well to

help assist the entirety of Hays and Caldwell counties with the Skills Development Fund program. The program finances the design and implementation of customized job-training projects, which allows local businesses to train staff and improve our workforce. We must do all we can to support small businesses during this challenging time. Our region will only benefit from their continued operation, resulting in the retention and creation of jobs and better economic opportunities for our residents. Keeping those businesses intact is essential for an economic recovery from COVID-19. Jason Giulietti is President of the Greater San Marcos Partnership. Questions about how one of our region’s grant programs can assist your business can be tweeted to @JasonGiulietti or emailed to jasong@greatersanmarcostx.com. jasong@ greatersanmarcostx.com

Home ownership will make you pay attention

merican home ownership is soaring, which is good for all

payments harder. Higher income taxes would leave you less monof us. ey for future payments. Home sales slowed The economy, if hobbled by Tom during the early months of by restrictive policies Purcell COVID-19, as millions of – Google “Venezuela” – Americans stayed inside. would produce fewer jobs, building effect of homeIn the past few months, affording you less opownership and the sense however, with interest portunity for a better job of control it provides to rates at historic lows, to continue paying your homeowners in a stable homes have been selling mortgage and improving housing market affect at a record pace, USA your home. homeowners’ mental and Today reports. You’re certainly going As Americans flee dense physical health in a posito need a “rainy day fund” tive way,” according to The when you own a home. urban areas, they’re looking for room to spread out Journal’s 2017 study. In fact, your home knows But, in my opinion, the when you create one – and – what we call “distancing” these days – and big yards greatest benefit of owning exactly how much you a home is that it forces for their kids to play in. have in it. you to embrace common I can’t wait for millions You see, every home has sense. of erstwhile renters to a sadistic sense of humor Common sense, as become homeowners just and will do something – defined by Merriam-Web- say, explode its terra cotta like me. ster, is “sound and The Journal of the sewage line on Thanksgivprudent judgment based Center for Real Estate ing morning – that causes Studies reports homeown- on a simple perception of you to create new curse ers enjoy long-term social the situation or facts.” Re- words but, most of all, grettably, common sense and financial benefits. forces you to become ever Their children do better in isn’t so common anymore, more sensible. but home ownership is a school. Homeowners are You’ll become suspifantastic way for people to cious of smooth-talking more likely to participate master it. in community and civic politicians who promise No sooner do you activities and vote than are all kinds of freebies withmake your first mortgage renters. They experience out explaining how they’ll payment than you begin health benefits and, for pay for them. You’ll realize wondering if the popumost, a sense of well-bethat you, a hard-working, larity of socialist policies ing. homeowning taxpayer, you were taught in school will foot the bill. You’ll “More recent studies have found that the wealth might make your future realize you’re being bam-

DEADLINES

Guest Column

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

LETTERS GUIDELINES

boozled. That will make you irritable and your irritability will make you pay closer attention and demand answers. If every voter had the sensibility you now have, imagine how much better our representatives – our whole government – would be. Imagine how much better the country would be if every American had “sound and prudent judgment based on a simple perception of the situation or facts.” Be cautious buying your first home, however. Low rates and high demand have prices rising fast. Be sure you’re making a sound decision, as MarketWatch covers. The best way to do that? Ask a homeowner for advice. Tom Purcell. Tom Purcell, author of “Misadventures of a 1970’s Childhood,” a humorous memoir, is a Pittsburgh Tribune-Review humor columnist and is nationally syndicated exclusively by Cagle Cartoons Inc. Tom@TomPurcell.com

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.

Page 4

NEWS

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • August 26, 2020

Flu shots urged amid coronavirus Kyle Charter BY SAHAR CHMAIS

100

In May 2020, the number of milestone vaccines and immunizations nationwide administered fell among all age groups, when comparing vaccine dosages order from January13, 2020 to April 13, 2020, according to the Centers for Disease Control. People were afraid to visit their doctors’ offices due to COVID-19. This trend may continue into influenza season, but doctors are urging people to get flu vaccines now more than ever. “Pandemic or not, it’s really recommended for everyone to get a [flu vaccine],” said Dr. Emily Fisher, a physician at Baylor Scott & White in Buda. “But this year, it goes back to preventing what we can. In this case, flu shots allow us to mitigate the virus and reduce the burden of respiratory illness.” Hospitals are already overwhelmed when it comes to coronavirus cases; Travis County has 234 COVID-19 hospitalizations, which includes patients from Hays County. Additionally, hospitals in Hays County are also taking in some patients. In the fall, more respiratory diseases will come about and hospitals will need more beds and breathing apparatuses. Fisher said hospitals need to keep doctors available to respond to COVID-19 cases and other emergencies and they want to keep as many people out of the hospital as possible. “We want to prevent what we can,” Fisher said, “and make sure we are not over-taxing the healthcare system.” She said she hopes we do not have a lot of episodes of overlapping COVID-19 and flu cases because no one knows how that scenario will play out, making it yet another reason for people to make sure they are up to date on their vaccines. The effectiveness of this

May 2016

May 2017

May 2018

May 2019

amendments on November ballot

May 2020

Percentage vaccinated

80 70

BY MEGAN WEHRING

60 50 40 30 20 10 0

1 mo

3 mos

year’s flu vaccine is not yet known, but most years it prevents about 40% to 60%, according to Fisher. But there are other vaccines and immunizations to keep in mind during this pandemic. Many people have not visited their children’s pediatricians for wellness visits, in an effort to minimize physical contact. For example, for 5-month-old children, routine vaccines declined from about 68% in 2019, to about 50% in May 2020. Measles containing vaccination declined by about 5 percent. Other routine vaccinations have also declined, according to the CDC, with the declines beginning the week after the national COVID-19 emergency delcaration. The best way to combat this scenario is to talk to the provider about the safest way to administer the vaccines and check what vaccinations their children need, Fisher said. Some parents are opting out of giving their children their vaccines for school, an option provided by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS). Still, DSHS says that “maintaining adequate immunization rates in school is critical to preventing disease outbreaks.” Fisher said even those students who will be par-

5 mos

7 mos Milestone Ages

16 mos

taking in at-home learning should get their flu vaccine and other routine immunizations. COVID-19 so far has shown to be milder in children than adults, but that is not the case with the flu and other illnesses. In support of providing all students the option for a flu vaccine, as done in previous years by Hays CISD, the school district is working on a plan for this year’s students. “[Student health services] are working with several vendors,” said Hays CISD chief communication officer Tim Savoy, “and are developing a plan to allow students to have access

19 mos

24 mos

to flu shots whether they are learning in-person or remain at-home for virtual learning. They have not finalized the plan, but should have an announcement within the coming weeks. We are targeting October for the main push for student flu shots.” Plans for how to administer the flu vaccine are still developing, but Baylor Scott & White in Buda is working on doing a drive thru for flu shots, Fisher said. “Take your flu shots and vaccines,” Fisher told the Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch. “We don’t know what’s in store for us, so let’s prevent what we can.”

KYLE – Propositions for an amended Kyle Charter will now be in the hands of voters to consider on the Nov. 3 ballot. Kyle City Council voted unanimously to order the special election after finalizing amendments that could be made to the charter. Amendments to the annexation and deannexation, city boundaries, non-binding ballot propositions, polling places and police department sections will be listed on the ballot. The list of proposed amendments include:

ANNEXATION & DEANNEXATION City Council proposed, before territory is annexed or disannexed, a public hearing will be held at least 10 but not more than 20 days after a notice is published in a newspaper. Notices will also be officially circulated in

means established by the city council.

NON-BINDING BALLOT PROPOSITIONS According to the proposed amendment, city council would be authorized to call elections on non-binding propositions when they want voters’ positions on an issue. City attorney Paige Saenz said it would ultimately be up to council if they elect to use a survey instead. “Your answers are only as good as the number of people who participate,” Saenz said. “So you always have to take that into consideration. You got that issue with those surveying and voting.” An ordinance calling an election for non-binding propositions must be approved by an affirmative vote of at least six members of council if the amendment is passed.

KYLE AMENDMENTS, 12

We proudly support our hometown teams Texas hometown friendly bank

512-858-5159

401 E. Hwy 290W. P.O. Box 1243 Dripping Springs, TX 78620

How Are Pipelines Constructed? A Permian Highway Pipeline Project Update

Pipelines are constructed in accordance with strict regulatory and environmental standards and industry best practices. Underground pipelines are the safest and most efficient method of transporting energy products. 1. Clearing & Grading

6. Inspection & Coating

2. Trenching

7. Pipe Lowering

After the right-of-way (ROW) is carefully surveyed and staked, the ROW is graded. Top soil is carefully removed and segregated.

A wheel ditcher or backhoe digs the trench for the pipeline. The bottom of the trench is then padded with sand to cushion the pipe.

For quality assurance, technicians inspect the pipe coating prior to installation and also inspect all welds using ultrasound. Each weld is then coated by a coating head. Sidebooms move together to gently lower the welded pipeline into the trench.

3. Stringing Pipe

8. Padding & Backfill

4. Field Bending Pipe

9. Hydrostatic Testing

5. Welding

10. Restoration

Each piece of pipe is laid on the ROW to ensure proper positioning prior to bending, welding and installation.

The pipe is bent, as needed, to accommodate elevation and horizontal changes.

The construction crew welds each section of pipe together into one continuous length.

www.phpproject.com

php_project@kindermorgan.com

The pipe trench is backfilled and graded.

The pipeline is filled with water and pressurized to ensure the pipe’s integrity and that it is fit for service. The pipe trench and land within the ROW are contoured and revegetated. The landowner may continue using the ROW for most purposes after restoration.

@PermianHwyPL

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • August 26, 2020

Page 5

Water District Notice of Public Hearing on Tax Rate

The CROSSWINDS MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT will hold a public hearing on a proposed tax rate for the tax year 2020 on Thursday, September 10, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. via teleconference toll-free by calling 1-888-594-6783 and entering passcode 512 370 2939# pursuant to Texas Government Code, Section 551.125, as amended, and as modified by the Governor of Texas in the Governor's proclamation on March 13, 2020, concerning the COVID-19 pandemic. If the Governor’s proclamation is lifted or expires or if the Governor terminates the partial suspension of the Texas Government Code, Section 551.125, a meeting in a physical location may become necessary. In such case, the Board will conduct the meeting at the District’s regular meeting place at Carlson, Brigance & Doering, Inc., 5501 West William Cannon Drive, Austin, Texas 78749. Please consult the public notice for said meeting for details regarding public access. Your individual taxes may increase at a greater or lesser rate, or even decrease, depending on the tax rate that is adopted and on the change in the taxable value of your property in relation to the change in taxable value of all other property. The change in the taxable value of your property in relation to the change in the taxable value of all other property determines the distribution of the tax burden among all property owners.

The NORTH HAYS COUNTY MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT NO. 2 will hold a public hearing on a proposed tax rate for the tax year 2020 on Tuesday, September 8, 2020 at 12:00pm by teleconference at (888) 808-6929, Access Code: 5611700 . Your individual taxes may increase at a greater or lesser rate, or even decrease, depending on the tax rate that is adopted and on the change in the taxable value of your property in relation to the change in taxable value of all other property. The change in the taxable value of your property in relation to the change in the taxable value of all other property determines the distribution of the tax burden among all property owners. FOR the proposal: Meghan Skornia, Hillary E. Sotello, Erica Allison AGAINST the proposal: None PRESENT and not voting: None ABSENT: Kevin Howard The following table compares taxes on an average residence homestead in this taxing unit last year to taxes proposed on the average residence homestead this year.

FOR the proposal:

Amy Laine, Lee Weber, Elizabeth P. Edwards and Michael Gideon AGAINST the proposal: None PRESENT and not voting: None ABSENT: Tony Dell’Abate

Total tax rate (per $100 value)

This Year

$0.90000/$100

Adopted

This Year $0.15000/$100

Adopted

The following table compares taxes on an average residence homestead in this taxing unit last year to taxes proposed on the average residence homestead this year. Last Year

Last Year $0.15000/$100

Difference in rates per $100 of value Percentage increase/decrease in rates (+/–)

0.00%

Average appraised residence homestead value

$0.00

General homestead exemptions available

$0.00

(excluding 65 years of age or older or disabled person’s exemptions)

Proposed

Proposed $0.00000/$100

Average residence homestead taxable value

$0.00

Difference in rates per $100 of value

$0.00

Tax on average residence homestead

$0.00

Percentage increase/decrease in rates (+/–)

0.0%

Annual increase/decrease in taxes if

Average appraised value General exemptions available

(excluding senior citizen’s or disabled person’s exemptions)

Average taxable value Tax on average residence homestead

$263,896.17

$263,879.80

$0.00

$263,896.17

$263,879.80

$2,375.07

$2,374.92 –$0.15

and percentage of increase (+/–)

–0.01%

The 86th Texas Legislature modified the manner in which the voter-approval tax rate is calculated to limit the rate of growth of property taxes in the state. Should you have any questions concerning this notice, please contact the tax office at 281-482-0216.

512-302-5555 | www.atfcu.org

The HAYS COUNTY DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT NO. 1 will hold a public hearing on a proposed tax rate for the tax year 2020 on Tuesday, September 8, 2020 at 8:30 a.m. by teleconference 1-800-366-8028, Conference Bridge No. 605; Pin No. 5011 . Your individual taxes may increase at a greater or lesser rate, or even decrease, depending on the tax rate that is adopted and on the change in the taxable value of your property in relation to the change in taxable value of all other property. The change in the taxable value of your property in relation to the change in the taxable value of all other property determines the distribution of the tax burden among all property owners.

Home Equity Loan as low as

2.75

FOR the proposal: David Reynolds, Kevin Pogue, Shawn Connolly, Gregory Merrill, George Baker AGAINST the proposal: None PRESENT and not voting: None ABSENT: None

Last Year

This Year

$0.90000/$100

Adopted Diﬀerence in rates per $100 of value

General homestead exemptions available

(excluding 65 years of age or older or disabled person’s exemptions)

Average residence homestead taxable value Tax on average residence homestead

APR1

Proposed $0.00000/$100

Percentage increase/decrease in rates (+/–) Average appraised residence homestead value

5 Years Fixed

The following table compares taxes on an average residence homestead in this taxing unit last year to taxes proposed on the average residence homestead this year. Total tax rate (per $100 value)

N/A%

*There were no residential homesteads for comparison purposes.

The 86th Texas Legislature modified the manner in which the voter-approval tax rate is calculated to limit the rate of growth of property taxes in the state.

Water District Notice of Public Hearing on Tax Rate

$N/A

and percentage of increase (+/–)

NOTICE OF VOTE ON TAX RATE If the district adopts a combined debt service, operation and maintenance and contract tax rate that would result in the taxes on the average residence homestead increasing by more than 8 percent, an election must be held to determine whether to approve the operation and maintenance tax rate under Section 49.23603, Water Code.

Annual increase/decrease in taxes if proposed tax rate is adopted (+/–)

proposed tax rate is adopted (+/–)

0.00% $539,192.00

$579,330.00

$0.00

$539,192.00

$579,330.00

$4,852.73

$5,213.97

Annual increase/decrease in taxes if proposed tax rate is adopted (+/–) and percentage of increase (+/–)

$362.14 7.44%

as low as

NOTICE OF TAXPAYERS’ RIGHT TO ELECTION TO REDUCE TAX RATE If the district adopts a combined debt service, operation and maintenance, and contract tax rate that would result in the taxes on the average residence homestead increasing by more than 8 percent, the qualified voters of the district by petition may require that an election be held to determine whether to reduce the operation and maintenance tax rate to the voter-approval tax rate under Section 49.23603, Water Code. The 86th Texas Legislature modified the manner in which the voter-approval tax rate is calculated to limit the rate of growth of property taxes in the state. Should you have any questions concerning this notice, please contact the tax office at 281-482-0216.

APR1

Up to 72 Months

Annual Percentage Rate. Actual rate may vary depending on credit qualifications. Rates and terms are subject to change without notice. This Auto Loan rate is applicable for the purchase of a new or used vehicle, or the refinance of an existing vehicle loan from another lender. New auto loan of $20,000 for 72 months at 2.29% APR will have a monthly payment of $298. Federally Insured by NCUA. Austin Telco NMLS #422857

Page 6

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON TAX RATE

Garison Memorial Park will feature a swimming hole, a place for fishing and non-motorized activities like kayaking and canoeing.

Construction date not set for Garison Memorial Park BY SAHAR CHMAIS

BUDA – John D. and Byrd Mims Garison Memorial Park in Buda, which was purchased in 2016, is on its way to getting developed. On Aug. 18, Buda City Council members listened to the proposed Garison Park features, which were planned in 2016. Greg Olmer, Parks and Recreation director, presented the plans to city council members, who overall liked the idea. There has not been a set date on when construction will begin. In 2016, it was estimated that renovating the park will cost about $12.5 million. That number is subject to change. The park, which sits between Garison Road and Onion Creek, will host

a variety of outdoor activities besides its current trails. It will feature a swimming hole, a place for fishing and non-motorized activities like kayaking and canoeing. Preservation of nature is a major component to the development, so Olmer told council members the prairies will remain a big part of the land. Although the park currently has trails, which are accessible by appointment only, Olmer said they should be redesigned to withstand the flooding that reoccurs in the area. The plan with this almost 40-acre land is grander than the park itself; it can be used as a means to connect east and west Buda simply through walking. This park also in-

cludes about 215 parking spaces. Garison Park is also designed to provide comfortable human interaction, so they have envisioned it with a relaxed atmosphere, similar to the Wimberley Blue Hole experience. With the current park budget proposal, about 11% of the money will go toward the design costs, but Mayor Pro-Tem Lee Urbanovsky hopes to lower that cost to about 6-8% to free up more money for the physical structure and amenities. Paying for the park will need some outside support, so council members hope Garison Park can be included in the upcoming Hays County park bond elections, set for November.

Renaming Rebel Drive Continued from pg. 1

does the name have to be changed to a person?” Former Kyle resident Joseph Fenity also said the name change needed to undergo more critical thought if the road was to be named after a person. “The proposal to change the word rebel to fajita is

not just a costly inconvenience,” Fenity said. “It’s an insult to many people I know and love. There are many ways, so many ways to honor the late great Sonny Falcon. Fajita Drive is a joke and Kyle, Texas, is not.” Council member Robert Rizo said despite initial ex-

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • August 26, 2020

citement over any project, the council should address the public before making decisions that directly affect them. “My excitement, without checking with the citizens to see if they were excited, has led us to where we are today right now.”

The Reunion Ranch Water Control and Improvement District will hold a public hearing on a proposed tax rate for the tax year 2020 on September 15, 2020 at 2:00 PM. The hearing will be held by remote access only in accordance with the March 16, 2020 Order by Governor Greg Abbott suspending certain requirements of the Texas Open Meetings Act to advance the goal of limiting face-to-face meetings to slow the spread of COVID-19. Members of the public may access this hearing by telephone and participate in the hearing by calling one of the following toll-free numbers: (877) 853-5247 or (888) 788-0099 and entering the following information: Meeting ID: 846 3254 9964 and Password: 702425. Your individual taxes may increase at a greater or lesser rate, or even decrease, depending on the tax rate that is adopted and on the change in taxable value of your property in relation to the change in the taxable value of all other property. The change in taxable value of your property in relation to the change in taxable value of all other property determines the distribution of the tax burden among all property owners. FOR the proposal: Dennis Daniel, Rick Triplett, Nathan Neese and Eileen Grass AGAINST the proposal: None PRESENT and not voting: None ABSENT: Thomas J. Rogers, Jr. The following table compares taxes on an average residence homestead in this taxing unit last year to taxes proposed on the average residence homestead this year.

Total tax rate (per $100 value)

Last Year

This Year

$0.875/$100

Adopted Difference in rates per $100 of value Percentage increase/decrease in rates (+/–) Average appraised value General exemptions available

(excluding senior citizen’s or disabled person’s exemptions)

Proposed $0.00 0.0%

$524,108

$556,262

$0.00

Average taxable value

$524,108

$556,262

Tax on average residence homestead

$4,585.95

$4,867.29

Annual increase/decrease in taxes if proposed tax rate is adopted (+/–) and percentage of increase (+/–)

$281.35 6.1%

NOTICE OF TAXPAYER’S RIGHT TO ELECTION TO REDUCE TAX RATE If the District adopts a combined debt service, operation and maintenance, and contract tax rate that would result in the taxes on the average residence homestead increasing by more than eight percent, the qualified voters of the District by petition may require that an election be held to determine whether to reduce the operation and maintenance tax rate to the voter-approval tax rate under Section 49.23603, Water Code. The 86th Texas Legislature modified the manner in which the voter-approval tax rate is calculated to limit the rate of growth of property taxes in the state.

Police Blotter The following is a tally of all calls made to law enforcement within Hays County between August 10 and August 16, 2020.

Below is a sample of events reported by law enforcement from August 10 through August 16, 2020. The location is where the event was reported or responded to and may not necessarily be where the event occured.

Abduction/Kidnapping ...........................................................................1 Civil Matter............................................................................................12 Information............................................................................................30 Property Lost/Found/Imp.......................................................................5 Alarm Business .....................................................................................46 Alarm Residential .................................................................................29 Animal Calls ..........................................................................................60 Field Euthanasia .....................................................................................1 Loose Livestock ...................................................................................22 Assault ....................................................................................................9 Assist EMS ..............................................................................................9 Assist Fire Dept ......................................................................................1 Assist Outside Agency .........................................................................14 Burglary Building ....................................................................................2 Burglary Habitation ................................................................................6 Burglary Vehicle ......................................................................................5 Criminal Mischief ..................................................................................10 Illegal Dumping .......................................................................................2 Attended Death ......................................................................................3 Death Investigation ................................................................................4 Disturbance Noise ................................................................................23 Disturbance Physical Fight ..................................................................12 Disturbance Verbal ...............................................................................18 Child Custody .........................................................................................4 Fraud .....................................................................................................11 Forgery ....................................................................................................1 Harassment...........................................................................................10 Threat ......................................................................................................5 Mental Health Follow Up ........................................................................3 Mental Health Invest...............................................................................6 Mental Health Transport .........................................................................5 Canine Search ........................................................................................2 Canine Training .......................................................................................1 Viol City Ordinance .................................................................................2 Drone Deployment..................................................................................2 Missing Person .......................................................................................3 Runaway .................................................................................................1 Public Assist ...........................................................................................7 Community Contact .............................................................................47 Disabled Vehicle ...................................................................................21 Foot Patrol ............................................................................................41 Close Patrol ........................................................................................283 Flagged Down ........................................................................................2 Welfare Concern ...................................................................................41 Suicidal Person.....................................................................................10 Investigation ...........................................................................................2 Supplement...........................................................................................61 Suspicious Circumstances ..................................................................17 Suspicious Person................................................................................10 Suspicious Vehicle ...............................................................................31 Wanted Person .......................................................................................1 Identity Theft...........................................................................................1 Theft ......................................................................................................21 Vehicle Theft ...........................................................................................1 Accident Minor .....................................................................................20 Accident Hit and Run .............................................................................7 Accident Major/Injury ...........................................................................11 Accident Fleet.........................................................................................1 Accident Unknown .................................................................................4 Traffic Incident General ..........................................................................1 Abandoned/Stored Vehicle ....................................................................5 Traffic Control/Direction .........................................................................6 Directed/Area Enforcement .................................................................32 Traffic Hazard........................................................................................15 Attempt to Locate.................................................................................73 Parking Enforcement ..............................................................................8 Traffic Stop..........................................................................................834 Solicitors .................................................................................................1 Trespassing/Unwanted ........................................................................16 911 Abandoned/Open ........................................................................274 911 Abon/Misdial/Open .........................................................................3 Deadly Conduct ......................................................................................3 Discharged Firearm ................................................................................6 Illegal Hunting/Poaching ........................................................................1 Private Tow/Repo .................................................................................20

Agency BPD HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO BPD HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO BPD HCSO BPD HCSO BPD HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO BPD HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO BPD HCSO

Activity Abduction/Kidnapping Burglary - Building Burglary - Vehicle Missing Person Suicidal Person Burglary - Habitation Burglary - Vehicle Death Investigation Suicidal Person Suicidal Person Suicidal Person Burglary - Habitation Burglary - Habitation Burglary - Vehicle Burglary - Vehicle Disturbance - Phys/Fight Harassment Accident - Major/Injury Assault Assault Assault Assault Disturbance - Phys/Fight Accident - Major/Injury Assault Harassment Harassment Burglary - Habitation Suicidal Person Assault Assault Disturbance - Phys/Fight Harassment Harassment Harassment Harassment Accident - Major/Injury Assault Assault Disturbance - Phys/Fight Burglary - Habitation Death Investigation Suicidal Person Burglary - Habitation Suicidal Person Burglary - Vehicle Death Investigation Suicidal Person Disturbance - Phys/Fight Assault Assault Disturbance - Phys/Fight Disturbance - Phys/Fight Disturbance - Phys/Fight Harassment Harassment Harassment Accident - Major/Injury Accident - Major/Injury Accident - Major/Injury Accident - Major/Injury Disturbance - Phys/Fight Disturbance - Phys/Fight Harassment Accident - Major/Injury

Date 08/10/2020 08/10/2020 08/10/2020 08/11/2020 08/10/2020 08/11/2020 08/11/2020 08/11/2020 08/12/2020 08/11/2020 08/11/2020 08/12/2020 08/12/2020 08/12/2020 08/12/2020 08/11/2020 08/10/2020 08/10/2020 08/12/2020 08/11/2020 08/12/2020 08/11/2020 08/11/2020 08/11/2020 08/12/2020 08/12/2020 08/12/2020 08/13/2020 08/15/2020 08/13/2020 08/13/2020 08/13/2020 08/13/2020 08/13/2020 08/13/2020 08/13/2020 08/13/2020 08/14/2020 08/14/2020 08/14/2020 08/15/2020 08/15/2020 08/15/2020 08/16/2020 08/16/2020 08/16/2020 08/16/2020 08/16/2020 08/15/2020 08/15/2020 08/15/2020 08/15/2020 08/15/2020 08/16/2020 08/15/2020 08/15/2020 08/15/2020 08/15/2020 08/15/2020 08/16/2020 08/16/2020 08/16/2020 08/16/2020 08/16/2020 08/16/2020

Time 12:53:04 12:40:10 11:10:56 1:41:59 17:13:25 17:28:04 7:20:56 6:02:13 3:40:55 7:45:19 11:18:50 16:29:32 16:33:13 13:38:44 16:05:07 5:53:58 17:58:27 15:02:14 2:31:30 15:17:28 2:31:30 15:17:28 11:11:02 15:27:50 18:12:36 11:31:38 20:25:47 11:36:50 2:32:40 15:53:34 20:21:47 15:13:39 9:35:51 18:40:15 19:08:00 21:51:18 21:09:00 19:31:46 23:13:31 20:18:39 16:34:50 7:57:46 21:26:49 15:58:07 0:55:49 19:53:09 15:51:25 15:01:16 1:08:32 14:23:28 17:14:30 14:32:58 21:56:17 4:14:29 20:31:49 19:20:07 23:45:24 15:40:03 16:24:22 4:01:23 5:18:56 13:51:15 15:34:51 18:18:45 16:33:26

Street/City Walmart Of Buda Sawtooth Mountain Way Dripping Springs Skyline Ridge Lookout Wimberley High Rd Kyle Cholla Cir Wimberley Bayberry Buda Tuscany Park Apartments Buda Philo St San Marcos Constellation Dr Buda Wimberley High School on Carney Bliss Spillar Rd Manchaca Snow Owl Holw Buda Friendswood Ln Austin Palomino Ln San Marcos Brinkley Dr Wimberley Overpass Rd Buda Green Meadows Ln Buda Hays Country Acres Rd Arikara St Buda Uhland Rd San Marcos Arikara St Buda Uhland Rd San Marcos Country Oaks Dr Buda Crosswinds Pkwy Kyle Martha Dr Buda W RR 150 Kyle Twin Mountain Rd Wimberley Sawtooth Mountain Way Dripping Springs Loma Vista Wimberley Uhland Rd San Marcos Black Forest Rd Buda Dragon Ridge Rd Buda Travertine Trl Buda Harmons Way San Marcos Signal Hill Rd Austin Goforth Rd Kyle Pacos Drive Through High Rd/Sunny Ridge Dr Kyle Joanne Loop Buda Cherry Blossom Ct San Marcos Desert Eagle Buda Hill Country Trl Wimberley Spanish Oak Trl Manchaca Cole Springs Rd Buda Hill Country Trl Wimberley Hilliard Rd San Marcos Blue Hole Regency Park Wimberley Palomino Rd Kyle Greystone Rd Dripping Springs RR 967 Buda Hill Country Recovery Iris San Marcos San Marcos W US 290 Dripping Springs Bunton Ln Kyle Albatross Cv/Spanish Trails Blvd Buda Kemp Hills Dr Austin Cabelas Dr Buda Carrington Oaks Camino Real Kyle Daybreak Cv Buda W RR 150/Quail Meadow Dr Kyle FM 2001/Blackbird Ln Buda Camino Real Kyle York Creek Rd New Braunfels W US 290 Dripping Springs Bebee Rd Kyle Park Place Storage Village Ln Buda Hilliard Rd San Marcos

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • August 26, 2020

Page 7

Dripping Springs, Wimberley ISDs prioritize student safety during school reopening In Wimberley ISD, 63 to 70% of parents chose to send their kids back to campus, while only 60% parents polled in the Dripping Springs ISD plan to send their kids back.

BY SAHAR CHMAIS DRIPPING SPRINGS/ WIMBERLEY – Wimberley and Dripping Springs independent school districts might be able to give other schools in Hays County insight on what it means to come back to school from the hyper-vacation students took since March. The two districts have differing reopening plans, but they are implementing many similar points when it comes to student safety. During an online town hall discussion with Dist. 45 State Rep. Erin Zwiener, the superintendents discussed how each district is handling COIVD-19 through attendance options and other safety measures. The three options students can partake in are synchronous, asynchronous or in-person classes. In Wimberley ISD, which has reopened its classrooms for Pre-K through fifth grade students and special needs students, between 63% to 70% of parents have chosen to send their children back to campus, said Superintendent Dwain York. Walking through the school hallways and getting feedback from teachers and students, York said that everyone was excited to be back on campus. The percentage of parents ready to send their children back to campus in Dripping Springs was slightly lower, about 60%, according to Superintendent Todd Washburn. Campuses for Dripping Springs will not reopen until Sept. 14, but the district

is planning ahead and has been in contact with other districts in Central Texas to help formulate the best plan. Since Wimberley ISD elementary schools reopened, York said the school campuses have been tailored in a way to minimize spread. Common areas, entrances and classrooms have been equipped with hand sanitizers. Everyone, even students under the age of 10, are required to wear masks. As an added safety measures, desks have plexi-glass around them. When students walk through hallways, they are to stay on their side and try to be as socially distant as possible. During lunchtime, students are separated by the six-feet rule. Highly touched areas, such as door knobs, are being sanitized while students sit in their classrooms. Dripping Springs ISD plans to follow a similar protocol when it comes to hand sanitizers and mask requirements. Washburn said the district will be adding more staff to the custodial department to keep up with all the cleaning. Schools in the district will also have stickers placed around reminding students to stay apart and to wash their hands. Screening is requested to be done by parents.

If a child shows any symptoms, both districts ask that parents keep their children home. The responsibility of staying safe goes beyond what the school does within its walls. Districts are asking that parents practice safety measures of social distancing, frequent hand washing and staying home if they have any symptoms. This reduces the chances of contracting and passing the virus within schools. While parents and schools work to minimize the spread from each end, there is still the risk of an outbreak. Both Wimberley and Dripping Springs ISDs are working with the Hays County Health Department for contact tracing. They are keeping track of the infection rates within the county and its weekly trends. Wimberley ISD said that if a student gets ill, they will follow up on whether they are staying home and make sure they have access to see a physician or that they are being taken care of. Outside of the safety concerns, these school districts want to find out how they can best serve students’ educational needs. Part of that has been providing the devices and tools for remote learning.

RE-OPENING PLAN, 12

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON TAX RATE

Input Sought for SH21 Continued from pg. 2

said the process was designed to be easy to use and not time consuming. “In May, we learned that it was important to residents to improve safety and mobility along 21 while minimizing negative impacts to the communi-

ty,” she said. “We want to continue to hear from area residents, business owners, and anyone else who has an interest in the roadway improvements to make sure we’re still getting it right.” The virtual town hall

Water Restrictions Continued from pg. 1

watering to once a week Commercial nurseries covering when not in use is recommended, Buda are subject to the same is suggested to minimize officials said. time restrictions when us- evaporation. Non recircuVegetable gardens may ing an automatic irrigation lating water features are be watered anytime with a system. prohibited, as is washing handheld bucket or hose It’s also allowable to of impervious surface CITY OF BUDA DECLARES STAGE 1 WATER RESTRICTIONS or drip irrigation. Irriwater foundations at any unless required for health Monday, August 24, 2020 gation to protect trees is Effective time. However, “saturation and safety. allowed with soaker hose Monday, to theAug. point it causes poolViolations are punAug. 21,a2020 - Effective 24, 2020, Stage 1 Water Restrictions will go into effect for City of automatic bubbler, runoff ishableand byDrought a fineResponse of up to Buda water customerstree in accordanceing with in the the City’s yard adoptedor Water Resource Management watering bag This or similar isconsistent prohibited.” Swimming per offense and a Ordinance. is due to the lack of precipitation, and higher than$2,000 normal demands on our water production Under Stage 1, twice per week watering restrictions are now in place. Violation of device placedsystem. within the pools maymandatory operate and be surcharge on the customordinance could result in a fine of up to $2,000 per offense and a surcharge on theutility customer’s utility bill. For tree’s the dripline. filled as normal. However, er’s bill. more on Stage 1 restrictions and water conservation tips visit: https://www.ci.buda.tx.us/232/Water-Conservation

Stage I Restrictions Waste of Water

Prohibited at all times

Irrigation with hose-end (sprinkler attached to a hose) and automatic sprinkler systems

Twice per week on designated day; prohibited between the hours of 10:00am and 7:00 pm • Odd-numbered residential: Wednesday and Saturday • Even-numbered residential: Thursday and Sunday • Commercial, mixed use and multi-family: Tuesday and Friday • It is recommended that outdoor watering be limited to one of the permitted watering days each week to promote conservation

Irrigation with handheld bucket, handheld hose, soaker hose, or drip irrigation system

Allowed any day and at any time

Irrigation of vegetable gardens Irrigation to protect trees Commercial Nurseries Foundation Watering Swimming Pools

Allowed using a handheld bucket, handheld hose, soaker hose or drip irrigation system any day and at any time Allowed using a soaker hose, automatic bubbler, tree watering bag, or

similar device placed within the tree’s dripline any day and at any time

Subject to the time restrictions when using automated irrigation systems, but may operate any day. Use of handheld bucket, handheld hose with positive shutoff device, soaker hose, and/or drip irrigation systems are permitted at any time on any day Any day and at any time. However, saturation to the point it causes pooling in the yard or runoff is prohibited Allowed to operate and be filled as normal. It is recommended that pools be covered while not in use to minimize evaporation loss.

Aesthetic water features

Non-Recirculating Prohibited

Washing of impervious surfaces

Prohibited, unless required for health and safety

Vehicle Washing

• • •

Noncommercial vehicle washing is allowed on any day and at any time, but must be done using a handheld bucket or a handheld hose equipped with a positive shutoff device Commercial vehicle washing is allowed on any day and at any time Charity carwashes are allowed, must be done using a handheld bucket or a handheld hose equipped with a positive shutoff device

Transfer high-rate credit card balances

The South Buda Water Control and Improvement District No. 1 will hold a public hearing on a proposed tax rate for the tax year 2020 on September 9, 2020 at 12:00 PM. The hearing will be held by remote access only in accordance with the March 16, 2020 Order by Governor Greg Abbott suspending certain requirements of the Texas Open Meetings Act to advance the goal of limiting face-to-face meetings to slow the spread of COVID-19. Members of the public may access this hearing by telephone and participate in the hearing by calling one of the following toll-free numbers: (877) 853-5247 or (888) 788-0099 and entering the following information: Meeting ID: 835 6583 6075 and Password: 595631. Your individual taxes may increase at a greater or lesser rate, or even decrease, depending on the tax rate that is adopted and on the change in taxable value of your property in relation to the change in the taxable value of all other property. The change in taxable value of your property in relation to the change in taxable value of all other property determines the distribution of the tax burden among all property owners. FOR the proposal:

Marvin B. Morgan, Sean M. Denton, Dante Angelini, Jeff Barton and John Fowler AGAINST the proposal: None PRESENT and not voting: None ABSENT: None

can be found online at: sh21corridor.com. For those without internet access, information on the study and possible roadway improvements can be obtained by texting the word INFO (in all caps) to 833-541-0677.

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The following table compares taxes on an average residence homestead in this taxing unit last year to taxes proposed on the average residence homestead this year.

Total tax rate (per $100 value)

Last Year

This Year

$0.9000/$100

Adopted Difference in rates per $100 of value Percentage increase/decrease in rates (+/–) Average appraised value General exemptions available

(excluding senior citizen’s or disabled person’s exemptions)

Proposed $0.00 0.0%

$245,520

$255,504

$0.00

Average taxable value

$245,520

$255,504

Tax on average residence homestead

$2,209.68

$2,299.54

Annual increase/decrease in taxes if proposed tax rate is adopted (+/–)

$89.86

and percentage of increase (+/–)

4.07%

Bear is a male, 2-year-old Rottweiler/Labrador. He the scales at 105 pounds but he’s a gental giant that gets along great with everyone he meets. He was raised with a homeless couple trying to get back on their feet. When they were finally able to secure housing, they weren’t allowed to keep Bear. He’s been raised with love and it shows.

Rachel is a female, 1-year-old Medium Hair Blue Tabby. She’s got all the makings for a wonderful pet but she just can’t bring herself to trust…yet. She is interested in people and will observe you from a distance or her cat tunnel. She will even allow you near her so long as you don’t make her feel like she’s in danger.

PAWS Shelter of Central Texas

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

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

Page 8

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • August 26, 2020

Texas switches from the noose to ‘Old Sparky’ W ith the modern and supposedly more humane electric chair due to replace the gallows at midnight, an overflow crowd packed the courthouse square in Angleton on Aug. 31, 1923 for the last public execution in Texas. The first dose of “manufactured lightning” was administered in 1890 to a convicted wife murderer in New York. But the much-heralded debut was something less than an unqualified success. The warden cut off the current after just 17 seconds on the advice of the attending physicians, who felt certain the subject must have expired. Upon closer examination, however, the doctors discovered to their astonishment that the man was still very much alive and called for a second jolt. This time the warden took no chances. Sixty seconds at full power not only finished the job but filled the execution chamber with a ghostly white vapor and the sickening stench of cooked flesh. Despite this inauspicious start, electrocution was soon accepted as the

Texas History

by Bartee Haile

most efficient and least painful method of capital punishment. By 1920 more than a dozen states had changed from the rope to the hot seat. Denouncing county-seat executions as a barbaric relic of the frontier past, L.K. Irwin launched a one-man campaign to bring Texas in tune with the times. The state legislator converted many to his cause with the argument that public hangings harmed society almost as much as the condemned. Irwin insisted executions usually degenerated into bloodthirsty carnivals that did nothing to instill in spectators a respect for the law. All too often untrained local officials made the spectacle even more gruesome when the drop failed to snap the victim’s neck. On those occasions, he slowly strangled to death in full view of women and impressionable children.

No National Night Out this October

Mt. City Montage

keep down attendance. Nevertheless, 150 people squeezed into the 25-foot square while hundreds more searched for cracks in the wooden barrier that might provide a peek at the proceedings. At 11 o’clock in the morning, a wedge of deputies escorted Nathan Lee to the scaffold. The confessed slayer of an elderly farmer reaffirmed his guilt and urged the sweltering spectators to learn from his fatal mistake. He hummed a church hymn as the traditional black hood was lowered over his head. Moments later, the sheriff released the trap door, and death by hanging became a part of Texas history. While the electric chair was under construction in a prison workshop, the warden abruptly resigned rather than assume his new duties. “It just couldn’t be done, boys,” he told reporters. “A warden can’t be a warden and a killer, too. The penitentiary is a place to reform a man, not to kill him.” A retired lawman volunteered to take his place. “I have hanged several men while I was sheriff,”

he noted, “and to pull the switch of an electric chair means no more to me than pulling the lever of the gallows.” But opening night for “Old Sparky” was a ghoulish ordeal even the experienced executioner found hard to stomach. Since no one had been put to death in several months, five executions were scheduled back-toback. After sending the fourth man to his doom, the shaken warden phoned the governor and pleaded with him to call it a night. Told to finish the job, he wearily ordered the guards to bring in the fifth and final inmate. The numb witnesses stared at the five sheet-shrouded forms

Read about Bonnie and Clyde and other Thirties outlaws in “Texas Depression Era Desperadoes.” Get your copy at reduced price of $20.00 by mailing a check to Bartee Haile, P.O. Box 130011, Spring, TX 77393.

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by Pauline Tom

During KissMe Care Orientation, I showed Bridget the professional snake snarer (obtained from Brent Ormand) I gave to RonTom for Dad’s Day. She sent a photo of the giant centipede dangling from the grasp of the giant purple tongs. I forgot to tell Bridget to a grab water hose to get KissMe out of the way if she needed the snarer. What an adventure KissMe brought her way. She sent the following message. “Hi Mis. Pauline, it’s Bridget - heard Kissme barking outside and went out to look and he was fighting with this centipede, I ran inside to grab that thing to catch snakes so I could pick it up, and when I did Kissme bit the centipede and it looked like it got his nose. I got rid of the centipede and am going to call Rosebrock, just to see what to do Kissme isn’t acting like he’s in pain, and I don’t see any swelling, but it just happened so I’m keeping my eye out. Just wanted to update you, I will let you know what the vet says.” Dr. Bob’s office counseled, “Give KissMe a Benadryl.” Not long afterward, Bridget sent a photo of KissMe sleeping. All was well. I kid you not, we were watching Call of the Wild from our hotel room that afternoon. RonTom came home calling KissMe “Buck.” What anecdote to you have that’s connected in some way to Mountain City? Please share. Ptom5678@gmail.com Thanks! Love to you, Pauline

See solution on page 9

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lying side by side on the floor next to the electric chair. Someone finally broke the eerie spell by heading for the exit, and the rest followed in a daze. A newspaperman caught up with L.K. Irwin in the parking lot and pumped the politician for his reaction. “It was more humane,” he argued lamely, “but at the next legislature I’m going to sponsor a bill to stop the death penalty.”

Sudoku puzzle courtesy of www.4puz.com

ongratulations to The Hallams on Maple, this week’s recipient of the Lawn of the Week Award from Loving Mountain City. Loving Mountain City’s annual Garage Sale Day is Saturday, Sept. 12, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. “Time to purge, visit with your neighbors and make a little money. Please make sure to wear your mask and practice social distancing.” Sheriff Gary Cutler cancelled this year’s Neighbor Night Out gatherings, scheduled for the first Tuesday evening in October, shortly after Mountain City printed postcards with a reminder of upcoming dates. The cancelled event is a night that enhances the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement while bringing a sense of true community. A way to connect with law enforcement is by downloading the new free Hays County Sheriff’s app. It’s available in the Google Play and Apple app stores. RonTom and I reconnected with Philip and Elaine Kiernan through a social-distanced lunch at their home in Phoenix, literally on the Scottsdale boundary line. We were in Arizona on the first of a series of trips celebrating our 49th on Dec. 11. Philip and Elaine moved from the end of Live Oak Drive in April and found their new home, within a few minutes of his children, by the end of the month. They send greetings back to Mountain City. Elaine especially misses the ladies who monthly play Bunco. KissMe, Our Great White Hunter with Red Spots, gave Bridget Garraway quite the scare during her stay with him while we were away. KissMe tangled with a Giant Texas Red-headed Centipede.

In the 1923 session of the Lone Star legislature, Irwin introduced the Electric Chair Bill. In addition to doing away with the gallows, the proposal relieved county sheriffs of the burden of the carrying out death sentences. Future executions would be held behind closed doors inside the Texas Department of Corrections. During the debate over the bill, an opponent put the sponsor on the spot. He offered to reverse his vote, if Irwin promised to be on hand for the initial execution. The lawmaker agreed, and the measure passed. Most counties were happy to put their gallows in mothballs and immediately shipped prisoners under death decrees to Huntsville. Not so in Brazoria County, where officials decided to proceed with the Aug. 31 hanging of a convicted killer. To avoid a replay of the recent mob scene at Waco, where ten thousand gave a mass murderer an unruly send-off, access to the Angleton execution was severely restricted. A high wall was hurriedly erected around the site in an effort to

512-504-3637 1180 Seton Pkwy, Ste 425 Seton Hays Medical Office Building

See solution on page 9

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • August 26, 2020

Page 9

OBITUARIES

104-year-old takes on COVID -19 and wins

HAYNES

and engine mechanics. wedding by renewing His service included a their wedding vows. Even Martha tour in Vietnam, and though he was already in Luan he earned the National the hospital, this year was Carter Defense Service Medal, no different. They used a Brunson Air Medal and Combat Zoom call to renew their Haynes, Air Crew Insignia. vows, with family by her 88, of Following his discharge side and hospital staff Wimberfrom the Marines in 1969, at his side. They loved ley, Texas, died Tuesday, Richard began a 40-year each other dearly and August 11, 2020. She was career with the Xerox born Sept. 29, 1931, in are a great example of Corporation, which led Anna, Illinois. A complete what true love is. him to meet Brenda obituary can be found Preceding him in Sanchez, a fellow Xerox at www.neptunesociety. death were his parents, employee. Romance com his brother Michael soon blossomed. They A celebration of life Telles, his daughter were married on July gathering with family Krystal Flores and 17, 1992, her birthday, and friends will be held granddaughter Sharon and celebrated 28 years at a future date. MemoCastro. Richard is together this year. rial donations may be Richard loved the Lord survived by his wife made in her memory and loved his family. He Brenda Telles, sons Tino to the Brunson Family was passionate about Telles and wife Trish, Endowed Scholarship reading the word of Michael Telles and wife in Literature at Texas God and sharing with Alexia, Eric Guzman and State University (https:// others. After retiring from wife Valerie, daughter secure.ua.txstate.edu/ Xerox in 2010, Richard Ronda Castro and site/SPageServer/?paand Brenda moved to son-in-law Joey Flores. gename=main_donaKyle to be closer to their PoPo is also survived by tion_form), to ovarian extended family. The 11 grandchildren and cancer research, or to a love he shared with charity of your choice. Brenda was like no other sisters Josie Juard and love. Everyone who knew Rosey Lopez, sisterTELLES in-law Miriam Telles, them knew how much plus numerous nieces, Richard they loved each other. nephews and friends. Telles of They had an annual Kyle, Texas A Celebration of Life tradition of recommitting died on was held Aug. 22 at their love on the August Christian Life Church. anniversary of their 17, 2020 at the age FREE COMMUNITY WEBINAR SERIES of 73 due to complications of COVID-19. His life began on Nov. 12, 1946 in Los Angeles, born to Faustino and Ydalusia Duran Telles. His father died when Richard was very young and his Learn five essential ways to prepare mother raised him and before an end-of-life event occurs every three siblings as a single Thursday in September at 6 p.m. mother. His mother worked Sept. 3 Estate Planning Sept. 10 Advance Care Directives seasonally between Sept. 17 Memorial Planning California and El Sept. 24 Palliative Care Paso, providing a Register online at beautiful, loving and HarrellFuneralHomes.com/areyourplansset/ adventurous childhood for her children. Richard graduated from Ysleta High School in El Paso in 1965 and in September of that year joined the U.S. Marine Corps, which trained him in aircraft

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

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

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

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Buda United Methodist Church Elm Street & San Marcos

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

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

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

a resident, salute our local superstar.

Learn more about Sodalis Buda

512.295.5600 Assisted Living I Memory Care

SodalisBuda.com

For all the latest Hays County news, visit

HaysFreePress.com

www.

www.HaysNewsDispatch.com

CHURCH OF CHRIST

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

BAPTIST

Southern Hills Church of Christ 3740 FM 967, Buda

First Baptist Church-Buda 104 San Marcos St., Buda

The Connection Church 1235 S. Loop 4, Buda

EPISCOPAL

Antioch Community Church Old Black Colony Rd., Buda

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

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

Baptist Church of Driftwood 13540 FM 150 W. CATHOLIC Santa Cruz Catholic Church 1100 Main Street, Buda

Texas Crossword, from page 8

and especially Sodalis Buda where Betty is

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

Primera Mision Bautista Mexicana Kyle

Texas Crossword Solution

The entire Sodalis Senior Living community,

Faith Assembly of God 1030 Main St., Buda

Manchaca Baptist Church Lowden Lane & FM 1626

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

at the age of 104 is a resounding victory.

ASSEMBLIES OF GOD

Southeast Baptist Church 5020 Turnersville Rd., Creedmoor

McDonald’s of Buda

achieved over her lifetime, beating COVID-19

Come worship with us

Sledge Chapel Missionary Baptist Church 709 Sewell, Kyle

Your Hometown McDonald’s

Of the many accomplishments Betty has

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 5700 Dacy Lane (McCormick M.S.), Buda 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

Sudoku Solution

Por Tu Gracia Fellowship 701 Roland Lane, Kyle

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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Sudoku Puzzle, from page 6

Sunset Canyon Baptist Church 8:45 AM

Sunday Morning

11:00 AM

Sunday Worship

5:45 PM

Wednesday Meal

6:30 PM

Wed TouchPoint SCBC Preschool Children Ministries Youth Ministries Family Ministries

A Family of Faith... www.sunsetcanyonchurch.org

(512) 894-0480

4000 E. HWY 290

Page 10

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • August 26, 2020

Hays leads five-county area in key real estate markers for July BY ANITA MILLER

HAYS COUNTY – New cases of COVID-19 are dropping in Hays County faster than in some surrounding counties, the New York Times reported on Friday, Aug. 21. That may explain why Hays County saw the biggest increase in the number of home sales across a five-county region in July 2020 compared to July 2019, according to the Central Texas Housing Market Report released Aug. 19 by the Austin Board of Realtors. The number of home sales in Hays County rose by 32.8% in July, compared to 21.4% in Austin, 17% in Travis County, 24.5% in Williamson County, 28% in Bastrop County and 3% in Caldwell County. The report illustrated “resiliency” in the face of the pandemic, with sales increases demonstrating “the vital role real estate will play as the region begins its economic recovery.” In addition to home sales, the report tracks the median price of homes, sales dollar volume and pending sales and active listings. Hays led the five counties in sales dollar volume percentage increase and the percentage increase in median home prices, with sales volume percentage increasing by 59.3% and the median home price rising by 18.1%. Regarding sales dollar volume percentage increase, Hays was followed by the city of Austin with a 41.8% increase. Sales dollar volume rose 40.7% in Bastrop County, by 34.2% in Travis County, 34.6% in Williamson County, and in Caldwell County by 1.7%. Median home sales in Hays County, meanwhile,

NGYUEN

SOZA

New clinic opens in Kyle next week KYLE — Austin Regional Clinic (ARC) will open its second Kyle location, ARC Center Street, on Sept. 1. Located at 22420 IH-35, Suite 203 in Kyle, on the northwest corner of I-35 and Center Street, ARC Center Street is a 15,000 sq.ft. clinic offering family medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, and an onsite Lab. Other services include sameday appointments, 24/7 phone and online scheduling, flu shots, well-check exams and more. The clinic has 40 exam rooms. Physicians include Thu “Stephanie” Nguyen, DO and Amanda V. Soza, MD, pediatrics; and Amanda E. Schultz, MD, Family Medicine. Shao-chun “Rose” rose by 18.1% to $310,000, putting Hays County median home price just $5,000 below Williamson County at $314,995. New Hays County listings jumped by 24.9% to 587 and active listings fell 35% to 683. Pending sales rose by 66.5% to 621, and housing inventory decreased to 1.9 months. In the city of Austin, median home prices rose 11.3% to $423,000, new listings jumped 20.4% to 1,676. Active listings de-

creased by 19.1% to 1,653 and pending sales grew by 25% to 1,413. Housing inventory stood at 1.7 months. Williamson County had a median home price increase of 10.5% to $314,995,new listings rose 6.5% to 1,450, active listings fell by 39.5% and pending sales jumped 29.5% to 1,518. Housing inventory was at 1.5 months. In Bastrop County, the median home price climbed 6.2% to $265,500

while new listings rose by 31.5% to 192, active listings dropped 10.1% to 329 and pending sales grew by 23.5% to 147. Bastrop has 3.4 months of housing inventory. Caldwell County, meanwhile, saw the median home price increased by 7.3% to $205,000. New listings fell 7.9% to 35, active listings dropped by 27.6% to 76 and pending sales increased by 33.3% to 44. Housing inventory was at 2.9 months.

Don’t delay the important care you need Broken bones, signs of a heart attack or stroke, difficulty breathing or other life-threatening symptoms — don’t delay when you or a loved one needs emergency care. Ascension Seton ER care teams are here with you, and we’re making sure our hospitals and sites of care are safe and ready for you when you need us. Ascension Seton ERs are open 24/7, close to home, and because we're more than emergency care, we'll connect you to the follow-up care you need.

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Chang-Jackson, MD, an ob/gyn, will join the group in November, and Drew D. Benac, MD, another ob/gyn, will open practice in January 2021. ARC Center Street joins ARC Kyle Plum Creek, which opened in 2009. Like much of Central Texas, Kyle has experienced rapid growth, with more than 50,000 residents, and is one of the fastest-growing communities in Texas. “We are excited to have a second location in this vibrant city corridor,” said Laura Crapps, ARC Center Street clinic manager. “With our longtime clinic in Plum Creek by the Hays CISD, we are expanding our quality primary and specialty care, including ob/gyn, to area residents.”

Shooting Death Continued from pg. 1

Though he only had two prior arrests in Hays County, Gutierrez said Harrington had “an extensive criminal history that included multiple felony drug arrests, evading and weapons arrests” elsewhere. Harrington’s name

An emergency is still an emergency

SCHULTZ

was not released until the next morning because of difficulty in locating and notifying his next of kin. Gutierrez said the Rangers and the sheriff’s office are investigating jointly and will release information as it becomes available.

Classifieds

20 WORDS FOR $8!

• Place your classified ad by calling 512-268-7862 • Email paper@haysfreepress.com We accept Visa, Mastercard and Discover Deadline: Noon Monday for Wednesday’s paper

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • August 26, 2020

Page 11

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.

For all the latest Hays County news, visit

HaysFreePress.com

www.

www.HaysNewsDispatch.com

Service Directory Air Conditioning

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“Proudly Serving Central Texas”

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Handyman

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107 S. Main St., Ste. A • Kyle, TX

For all the latest news in Hays County, visit www.HaysFreePress.com or

www.HaysNewsDispatch.com To subscribe call 512-268-7862 or email paper@haysfreepress.com

Pool Service Over 10 years of experience Keith Miller, owner

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Classifieds Page 12

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • August 26, 2020

PUBLIC NOTICES CITY OF BUDA LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, pursuant to City of Buda Charter, Article III, Section 3.11 (D). Ordinances, that the Buda City Council, at its regular meeting on August 4, 2020, adopted an ordinance(s) to amend Ordinance 2016-25 granting an exclusive franchise to Texas Disposal Systems, Inc. for the collection of refuse for residential, multi-family, commercial and industrial establishments; adding temporary construction roll

offs as part of scope of the exclusive franchise containing various terms and conditions with regard to the grant of such franchise; providing for penalties for failure to comply with such ordinance(s); providing for publication; and, providing for an effective date. By: Mayor George Haehn. Attest: Alicia Ramirez, City Clerk. (full text is available in the Office of the City Clerk, City Hall, 405 E. Loop Street, Building 100, Buda, TX, during business hours and on www.ci.buda.tx.us.)

NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO SUBDIVIDE An application has been filed with HAYS COUNTY to subdivide 41.46 acres of property located at along Camino Real, Kyle, TX 78640. Information regarding the application may be obtained from Hays County Development Services (512) 393-2150. Tracking number: PLN-1455-NP.

PUBLIC NOTICES, 13

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INVITATION FOR BIDS CBD No. 4993 This Invitation for Bids is for the constructions of CALITERRA PHASE 4 SECTION 11. The work generally consists of Streets, Drainage, Water, Wastewater and Erosion Control Improvements (the “Project”). Sealed Bids should be addressed to Development Solutions CAT, LLC, (“Owner”), on behalf of the Hays County Development District No. 1 (“District”). Attn: Greg Rich, 12222 Merit Drive, Suite 1020, Dallas, Texas 75251. Bids will be received at the office of the Project Engineer, Brian Kelling, Jr., P.E., Carlson, Brigance & Doering, Inc. (CBD, Inc.), 5501 W. William Cannon Dr., Austin, TX 78749 until 2:00 p.m. on the date of Thursday, September 24, 2020 at which time the proposals will be publicly opened and read aloud. Any proposals received after the closing time will be returned unopened. Bid documents for this project will be available for purchase from the office of the Project Engineer-CBD, Inc. A non-refundable purchase fee of $125.00 will be charged per USB. The USB will contain CAD files, pdf set of plans and bid documents. Make checks payable to Carlson, Brigance and Doering, Inc. Bid documents may be viewed at the office of CBD by scheduling a time with Cynthia Litton cynthia@cbdeng.com. All questions, clarifications and requests regarding the project must be received in writing via email to Brian Kelling, Jr., P.E. at bkelling@cbdeng.com and Oscar Tovar at oscar@cbdeng.com and received no later than 12:00 p.m., September 21, 2020. Any requests received after said time and date will not be addressed. A Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 3, 2020 at CBD, Inc., 5501 W. William Cannon Dr., Austin, TX 78749. The Pre-Qualification Statement included in the proposal packet and as required by Hays County Development District No. 1 shall be completed in its entirety and submitted as part of the proposal. Any proposal lacking the Pre-Qualification Statement will not be considered. A Cashier’s Check, Certified Check or Bid Bond payable to the “Owner” and “District” in an amount not less than 5% of the total bid must accompany each Bid as a guarantee that, if awarded the contract, the bidder will within 10 days of the award of the contract, enter into a contract and furnish an acceptable Performance and Payment Bond in the amount of 100% of the Contract price. The Bidder’s surety will be forfeited and become the property of the Owner should the bidder fail to enter into a contract and furnish bonds acceptable to the Owner within 10 days after award of the contract. No proposals shall be withdrawn for a period of 90 days after the opening of the bids. The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all Bids and to waive all defects and irregularities in bidding. The Successful Bidder, if any, will be the responsible Bidder which in the Owner’s judgment will be most advantageous to the District and result in the best and most economical completion of the Project. A Maintenance Bond will be required and is to remain in force for a period set by the governing requirements from the date of the letter of final acceptance from Hays County, City of Dripping Springs, Dripping Springs Water Supply Corporation and the District. Prevailing Wage Rates, in accordance with Government Code 2258 are applicable to this project.

INVITATION FOR BIDS Continental Homes of Texas, LP (Owner) on behalf of North Hays County Municipal Utility District No. 1 invites the submission of sealed Bids from qualified bidders for: North Hays County MUD No. 1, Trails at Windy Hill Phase Four & Five “Paving, Drainage, Water & Wastewater Improvements.”

For more information, email tracy@haysfreepress.com or call 512-433-0926

The work shall consist of the following: RCP Drainage Piping, Including Approximately 18”- 54” Pipe, Concrete Box Culverts, Inlets, Headwalls and Appurtenances; Water Piping, Including 8” & 12” PVC Pipe, Valves, and Appurtenances; Gravity Wastewater Piping consisting of 8” PVC Pipe, Manholes, and Appurtenances; Excavation, Embankment and Paving; Water Quality Pond Outfall Structures and Grading; Sedimentation & Erosion Control; and Various Other Site Improvements. Sealed Bids addressed to the Owner and marked "Bid for North Hays County MUD No. 1, Trails at Windy Hill Phase Four & Five Improvements" will be received until 10:00 AM on Friday, September 11, 2020 at the Project Engineer's office, BGE, Inc., 101 West Louis Henna Blvd., Suite 400, Austin, TX 78728. Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud at 10:00 AM on Friday, September 11, 2020 at the Project Engineer's office, BGE, Inc., 101 West Louis Henna Blvd., Suite 400, Austin, TX 78728. A non-mandatory pre-bid meeting will be held at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, September 1, 2020 at the Project Engineer's office, BGE, Inc., 101 West Louis Henna Blvd., Suite 400, Austin, TX 78728. Plans, specifications and bidding documents may be examined without charge at the offices of BGE, Inc., 101 West Louis Henna Blvd., Suite 400, Austin, TX 78728. Plans, specifications and bidding documents may be obtained without charge from www. civcastusa.com. Bidders must register on this website in order to view and/or download plans, specifications and bidding documents. A Cashier’s Check, Certified Check, or acceptable Bidder’s Bond in the amount of five percent (5%) of the Bid must accompany each bid. Performance and Payment Bonds will be required as stated in the Contract Documents. All questions pertaining to the bid must be submitted at least seven (7) calendar days prior to bid opening through www.civcastusa.com in the Q&A portal. The prices and terms of the bid must be made on the forms included in the Contract Documents. The Owner may, on its own initiative, issue Addenda before the Bid opening and, if necessary, delay the Bid opening to ensure that bidders have had sufficient time to consider the Addenda. All Addenda issued for this project will only be posted on www.civcastusa. com. You will be notified of Addenda automatically through email if you download Contract Documents via civcastusa.com. A Bid which, in the opinion of the Owner, deviates significantly from the Contract Documents, and which has not been clarified through a written Addendum prior to Bid submittal deadline, shall be considered an exception to the Contract Documents and grounds for the Bid to be rejected. Bidders should read and understand all terms and conditions contained in these Contract Documents. The Owner reserves the right to accept the lowest and best Bid as deemed by the Owner, or reject any and/or all Bids. The Owner may request qualification information including references, bonding, insurance and other information for use in determining the lowest and best Bid. Any bid may be withdrawn prior to the above scheduled time for the opening of the bids or authorized postponement thereof. Any bid received after the time and date specified will not be accepted.

Re-Opening Plan

Kyle Amendments

Continued from pg. 7

But in Wimberley’s case, wifi signal can be weak in certain areas. York said that the district has worked with churches and libraries around the city to help with wifi access. The district has also provided hotspot devices. If there is an issue with access and devices, York asked that parents notify his office so they can fix the issue. Washburn said that if there are connection issues, parents should reach out to their child’s school to get the problem fixed. Coming back to this year, districts have learned how to enhance the online learning experience and fix some of the previous mistakes. Both districts have taken the time to develop a better plan with teachers on how to better this year’s online courses.

For example, teachers in Dripping Springs ISD took a course of more than 15 hours, training for remote learning, Washburn said. Teachers are feeling more prepared and students have given positive feedback on the new system, Washburn added. This time around, parents should expect a better formulated and more organized learning curriculum. Parents are encouraged to reach out to teachers if they have any questions or concerns. Online resources should not only be used by those doing synchronous or asynchronous classes. If a student stays home due to illness and cannot come back until their COVID-19 test results are ready, they can utilize the online tools. This method ensures that

Continued from pg. 4 students do not fall behind on their coursework, especially if tests results take a long time to come back, said Washburn. One of the final thoughts discussed in the meeting flipped the narrative. Instead of saying what the school can do for its students, the superintendents talked about what the state can do for the schools. York said the district gives away millions of dollars to the Robin Hood act, which diverts property tax dollars from school districts considered wealthy in property, to poorer districts within the state. He said he would like his district to keep the money to pay for the additional employment and staffing that is needed, an idea both men agreed on.

POLICE DEPARTMENT City council proposed the Kyle Police Department remain transparent with the community. In-person briefings, news publications and social media on a quarterly basis are also proposed to maintain citizen engagement. The chief of police would also be held responsible for supervising and evaluating the entire police department, upon review by the city manager and city council. Council member Alex Villalobos said the police department would be able to plan for future success as they provide more timely data reporting and resources. “I would hope that the department, based

City council proposed for the Kyle Police Department to remain transparent with the community. Inperson briefings, news publications and social media on a quarterly basis is also proposed to maintain citizen engagement. on the criteria that they are going to be reporting, is going to be able to advocate for themselves on behalf of the community,” Villalobos said. “They’re going to show and be able to highlight what they are actually doing because they are going to be required to present them and it’s going to be based on data.” Council member Dex Ellison said the amendment could help create

a better relationship between the police department and the community. “To be abreast to what’s going on and to make sure that we are working with our PD to make sure all of us are building departments, enforcement and community policing that we can all be proud of so we are not in situations that we have seen in other countries,” Ellison said.

Classifieds Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • August 26, 2020

Page 13

PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICE CITY OF NIEDERWALD

Notice is hereby given, that, in accordance with order of the Office of the Governor issued March 16, 2020, the City Council of the City of Niederwald, Texas will conduct a telephonic public hearing in order to advance the public health goal of limiting face-to-face meetings (also called “social distancing”) to slow the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) on September 14, 2020, at 7:40 p.m., giving all interested persons the right to be heard on a Conditional Use Permit by the City of Niederwald, Texas, as petitioned by the property owner, said property being located at 100 El Rey Drive and 101 El Dorado Drive. The applicant desires to construct a convenience store with gas pumps. Dial-in number (US): (602) 580-9290 Access code: 5827870# If you have any questions regarding this annexation, contact Niederwald City Hall at 512-398-6338.

CITATION BY PUBLICATION

To all persons interested in the In The Estate of Lisa Pierce Hamilton, Deceased, Cause No. 20-0211-P, in the County Court at Law, Hays County, Texas. The alleged heir(s) at law in the above-numbered and entitled estate filed an FIRST AMENDED APPLICATION TO DETERMINE HEIRSHIP, FOR INDEPENDENT ADMINISTRATION, AND ISSUANCE OF LETTERS OF ADMINISTRATION PURSUANT TO SECTION 401.003 OF THE TEXAS ESTATES CODE in this estate on the 19th day of August, 2020, requesting that the Court determine who are the heirs and only heirs of Lisa Pierce Hamilton, Deceased, and their respective shares and interests in such estate. The Court may act on this Application at any call of the

docket on or after 10:00 A.M., on the first Monday next after the expiration of ten (10) days, exclusive of the day of Publication, from the date this citation is published, at the Hays County Government Center in San Marcos, Texas. All persons interested in this case are cited to appear before this Honorable Court by filing a written contest or answer to this Application should they desire to do so. To ensure its consideration, you or your attorney must file any objection, intervention, or response in writing with the County Clerk of Hays County, Texas on or before the above noted date and time. Applicant’s Attorney: Ana Marilín "Mari" Garza 102 Suttles Ave. San Marcos, Texas 78666 (512) 667-7274 Given under my hand and the seal of said Court at the office of the Hays County Clerk in San Marcos, Texas on this the 20th day of August, 2020. Elaine H. Cárdenas County Clerk, Hays County, Texas 712 S. Stagecoach Trail, Suite 2008 San Marcos, Texas 78666 BY Darren Jones, Deputy

REQUEST FOR BIDS

WALTZ CONSTRUCTION, CMAR; in conjunction with Turner Capital Impact, is soliciting bids beginning August 28, 2020 from all Trade Partners for the ground up construction of Doral Academy Texas in Buda. This is an @ 55,000 SF, metal stud, two-story charter school, 33 classrooms, gymnasium & site work. Bids are due by 2:00pm, September 11, 2020. Specific information on the project, and bidding instructions are available by emailing christian@waltzconstruction. com or Tel. 210.238.5622 Minority and Woman-Owned Businesses are encouraged to participate in this bid/proposal process.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary upon the Estate of I.C. Trimble, Jr., were issued to Barclay Charles Trimble, whose mailing address is 237 Graystone Lane, Bowling Green, Kentucky 42103, on August 10, 2020, by the County Court at Law Number Three of Hays County, Texas, in Cause No. 20-0231-P, which is still pending, and that the Independent Executor now holds such Letters Testamentary. All persons having claims against said estate are hereby required to present the claims to Barclay Charles Trimble, c/o Michele A. Mobley, DuBois, Bryant & Campbell, LLP, 303 Colorado, Suite 2300, Austin, Texas 78701, within the time prescribed by law. Michele A. Mobley DuBois, Bryant & Campbell, LLP 303 Colorado Street, Suite 2300 Austin, Texas 78701

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of James Ellis Wood, Deceased, were issued on August 26, 2019, in Cause No. 19-0193-P, pending in the County Court at Law of Hays County, Texas, to: Patricia Jane Wood. 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: Brad Wiewel Attorney at Law 1601 Rio Grande St., Ste. 550 Austin, Texas 78701 DATED the 17th day of August, 2020. Ann Lumley Attorney for Patricia Jane Wood

PUBLIC NOTICES, 12

INVITATION TO BID Sealed bids addressed to the City of Kyle will be received for BUNTON CREEK INTERCEPTOR PHASE 2.0 until 10.00 a.m. on September 23, 2020, at City of Kyle Public Works Department, 520 E. RR 150, Kyle, TX. The bids will be publicly opened and read aloud on 10:00 a.m. September 23, 2020 at City of Kyle Public Works Department. Bids are invited for several items and quantities of work including: 1. Approximately 5,520 linear feet, 42” PVC Sanitary Sewer Line. 2. Approximately 2,079 linear feet, 36” PVC Sanitary Sewer Line. 3. Eighteen (18) -5’ diameter manholes. 5. Four (4) bores under Plum Creek and Gas Line. 6. Approximately 7,599 linear feet, 12” Reclaimed water line. Bids must be submitted on the Unit Price Bid Form provided and must be accompanied by a bid security in a penal sum approximately equal to and not less than five percent (5%) of the total amount of the bid. The security shall be in the form of a certified check or cashier's check, or bid bond furnished by a reliable surety company having authority under the laws of Texas to write surety bonds in the amount required, with such security made payable without recourse to the City of Kyle. The envelope containing the bid shall indicate clearly on the front that the bid is for: BUNTON CREEK INTERCEPTOR PHASE 2.0 “K20-21.7” The final Notice of Award of Contract shall be given to the successful bidder by the City of Kyle within sixty (60) days following the opening of bids and no bidder may withdraw his bid within sixty (60) days after opening thereof. The successful Bidder must furnish a performance bond and payment bond on the forms provided, each in the amount of one hundred percent (100%) of the contract amount, from a surety company holding a permit from the State of Texas to act as surety. State statutes including wage and hour provisions and contract regulations must be adhered to as they relate to this project. Contractors will be required to comply with all applicable Equal Employment Opportunity laws and regulations. Copies of the Specifications and Bid Documents will be on file by August 26, 2020 and made available to: Builders Exchange, 4047 Naco Perrin, San Antonio, Texas 78217 Complete Contract Documents have also been provided to CivCast USA for immediate download. Please go to http://www.civcastusa.com/. The Project ID is “K20-21.7”. Prospective Bidders shall address written inquiries through the project’s CivCast website. Hard copies of contract documents are not available. Bidders should carefully examine the plans, specifications and other documents, visit the site of work, and fully inform themselves as to all conditions and matters which can in any way affect the work or the cost thereof. Should a bidder find discrepancies in, or omissions from, the plans, specifications or other documents, or should be in doubt as to their meaning, bidder should notify the Project Manager, Keshav Gnawali via www.civcastusa.com. Obtain clarification prior to submitting any bid, but no later than 5:00 p.m. September 16, 2020. Answer to the questions pertaining to the bid and addendums will be posted on www.civcastusa.com no later than 5:00 p.m. September 17, 2020. Bidder shall be responsible to check the www.civcastusa.com before submitting the bid. A non-mandatory virtual pre-bid conference will be held on September 3, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. Please follow the link to attend the pre-bid conference, https://meetings. ringcentral.com/j/1484237480. A link to attend the meeting will be posted on City of Kyle website (www.cityofkyle.com) and on www.civcastusa.com. The right is reserved, as the interest of the City of Kyle may require, to reject all bids and to waive any or all informalities in bids received. Leon Barba, P.E. (City Engineer) City of Kyle

Page 14

NEWS

Hays Free Press • August 26, 2019

Dr. Fauci to address Latino group’s concern over COVID-19 BY SAHAR CHMAIS

and many do not have the advantage of health Dr. Anthony Fauci, the benefits and insurance, said director of the National J.R. Gonzales, Buda Area Institute of Allergy and Chamber of Commerce Infectious Diseases, has Executive Director. This is a agreed to partake in a panel major reason that the Hisdiscussion addressing the panic community is getting impact of COVID-19 on disproportionally hurt by Latino and minority comthe virus. munities. Not only is the Hispanice The Texas Association workforce facing the health of Mexican American issue, but is also reeling Chamber of Commerce from loss of jobs. Conhas invited Fauci to this sequently, the economy webinar on Sept. 24 in order has taken a hit with their to get some answers and absence because some information to the Hispanic businesses are unable to communities across Texas. sustain a necessary workIn the state, the Hispanic force, Gonzales said. population makes up 40% People hastened to sign of confirmed cases, higher up for a spot on the webithan any other race. But the nar. Pauline E. Anton, presHispanic population also ident and CEO of TAMACC, has a death rate of almost said there will be elected 55%, again making it the officials, state agencies, number one ethnicity on community leaders and the chart. business owners on the call. A big part of the frontline Within minutes of unveiling workforce and essential Fauci’s appearance, Anton employees are Hispanic, said she had more than

VOTE

LaVonia Horne-Williams

Buda City Council, At-Large P1 Lavoniaforbudacitycouncilp1@gmail.com

My husband and I discovered this beautiful small town many years ago by accident and have been here ever since. We’ve raised our family here. I strongly believe it is my civic responsibility to be involved in my community and to actively participate in making this community the best it can be. I’m proud to call Buda home. As a longtime resident (2001), I have concerns about Buda’s growing pains, including taxes and traffic. I want to contribute to the quality of life in this town that we love. I want to represent the citizens and their concerns on the City Council. And I will make myself available to everyone. I would be honored to serve my community.

100 registration requests. People sitting on the edge of their seat to get a spot on the call can only mean one thing. “They are hungry for the information,” Anton said. “They want to know facts and how to protect their families and community.” After listening to Fauci talking about minorities being affected the most by COVID-19, Anton said she wanted to reach out to him to gain insight for Hispanic communities all over Texas. Anton wondered who better to talk about the coronavirus than a renowned doctor, especially considering that this is a health issue and not a political one. COVID-19 is affecting different parts of Texas at different rates and in multiple ways, so TAMACC would like to gather questions throughout the regions for better representation. The most important question

will be how to better educate Hispanics on the virus and learning how to protect themselves, Anton said. “A lot of the information out there is so confusing that a person doesn’t know which way to go or what they’re supposed to do,” Anton described the confusion of COVID-19’s information overload. “So, we are going to bring best information possible.” Fauci will not be the only

speaker; after he is finished, there will be a round table discussion lead by elected officials and community leaders, on how to educate the community. There are still many things to consider about the webinar, which may become more clear over time. For example, some of the questions to be asked are still undetermined; come fall, there may be many changes in infection rates

and more research may come about. The number of attendees allowed is still in the works since this webinar is getting a lot of attention. Anton also wants to remind attendees excitedly waiting for the teleconference that there will always be a chance that the event gets rescheduled and, if that is the case, it is understandable.

3 Served on the City of

Buda Charter Committee (2017) - Helped to establish Single-Member Districts and Qualifications for Mayor and Council.

3 Served on the City of

Buda Historic Preservation Commission (20162018) – Supported design compliance efforts that protect historic structures and celebrate Buda’s history all while managing foreseeable growth.

3 Served on the City of Buda

Human Services Grant Committee (2019 & 2020) – Recommended approval of $30K in support grants that address community needs in the areas of arts & culture, community development & community service.

3 Serving on the Buda

Economic Development Corporation (2019-current) – Supported approval of funding in the amount of $210K for the Still Budaful Stimulus Program. The program provided up to $5,000 in grants to qualifying small businesses located in Buda.

Political advertisement paid by LaVonia Horne-Williams Campaign.

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