Tigers roar past LBJ, 52-35
Options for Breast Cancer Screening
page 4
Fire detection program spreading
page 6
News-Dispatch Volume XXXIX No. 3
Serving Western Hays County, Texas since 1982
page 8
75¢
Thursday, October 18, 2018
430-mile natural gas pipeline Pleads guilty to cross through Hays County BY MOSES LEOS III
A proposed $2 billion, 430-mile pipeline that would funnel natural gas from the Texas Permian Basin to the Gulf Coast is expected to cut through Hays County.
In September, Kinder Morgan Texas Pipeline (KMTP), LLC, a multi-million dollar Houston-based energy infrastructure company, announced its final investment decision to move forward with the Permian Highway Pipeline
Project. That project calls for a 430-mile underground pipeline that starts in Waha in far west Texas and stretches across the Hill Country before ending in Colorado County, roughly 80 miles west of Houston.
Officials estimate construction starting by fall 2019 and for the pipeline to be in service by the fourth quarter of 2020. According to a KTMP release, the project will transport up to 2 billion cubic feet per day of natu-
ral gas through a 42-inch pipeline with connections to the U.S. Gulf Coast and Mexico markets. According to the release, shippers that have committed to the Permian Highway
GAS PIPELINE, 3
Red outpacing Blue in County Judge, HD45 spending BY EXSAR ARGUELLO Republican candidates for County Judge and Texas House District 45 are out-fundraising and spending their Democratic opponents, according to 30-day campaign finance reports filed Oct. 9. Republican County Judge candidate Will Conley and Republican HD45 candidate Ken Strange spent a combined $100,000 on their campaigns, nearly double that of their Democratic opponents. County Judge In the race for County Judge, Democrat Ruben Becerra has raised $18,004.30 in total political contributions during the reporting period from July to October. Becerra spent $13,157.13 in total political expenditures, maintaining $21,178.52 in his war chest as of the last day of the reporting period. Becerra, who filed his finance reports on Oct. 12, two days past the deadline, also has $23,532.63 in total outstanding loans as of the last day of the reporting period. Becerra did not receive political action committee (PAC) donations
HD45 CAMPAIGN SPENDING, 8
PHOTOS COURTESY OF LAUREL ROBERTSON
Dripping Springs’ Farmers Market, which sets up at the Triangle in the heart of the city, was recently named as the very best in the state according to results of the Farmers Market Celebration, a contest organized by American Farmland Trust.
Dripping Springs farmers market recognized as the best in Texas BY MOSES LEOS III
For the past week, Dripping Springs resident and Farmers Market Manager Laurel Robertson has collected a plethora of high-fives that came her way at city hall.
That feeling of exuberance comes after Dripping Springs’ Farmers Market, which sets up at the Triangle in the heart of the city, was recently named as the very best in the state. Earlier this month, the Dripping Springs
Farmers Market was named No. 1 in Texas for farmers markets, according to results of the Farmers Market Celebration, a contest organized by American Farmland Trust. Dripping Springs’ Farmers Market was also tabbed
as 7th best in the nation. For Robertson, who operates as manager of the city’s farmers market, the accolades show the public understands what the city’s farmers market is trying to ac-
TOP FARMERS MARKET, 3
Hays County fire marshal resigns KATIE BURRELL
After six years of service in Hays County, Fire Marshal Clint Browning resigned Friday in order to pursue other opportunities, according to county leaders. Hays County Pct. 2 Commissioner Mark Jones confirmed
Browning’s resignation, adding Browning sent his twoweek notice prior to commis- BROWNING sioners approving the resigna-
tion during the Oct. 2 meeting. Browning’s last day on the job was Oct. 5 according to county documents. According to officials, Browning opted to work in the private sector doing inspections and similar work and left with no issues. Browning worked
LAGNIAPPE The Hill Country Living & Rainwater Revival Festival
The Hill Country Alliance has packed a full day with fun things to do and good things to learn about living lightly in our precious Hill Country at Dripping Spring Ranch Park on Saturday, Oct. 20, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. There will be vendors, speakers, and activities on land and wildlife management, water conservation, renewable energy, green home design and building, night sky lighting, sustainable products, and more. For more information, visit RainwaterRevival.com.
Songwriter’s Festival
Over 40 local and international songwriters will take to Dripping Springs Oct. 19-21 for the 5th annual Dripping Springs Songwriters Festival. The event, which will present more than 35 showcases per day, features a variety of musicians hailing from as far away as Toronto, Canada that will play “in-the-round” Nashville-style on five stages across the city. See more on page 6 or visit www. drippingspringssongwriters festival.com.
as a sheriff’s deputy in Caldwell County before becoming Assistant Fire Marshal for the Hays County Fire Marshal’s office in 2012. After three years serving as assistant, Browning was promoted to Fire Marshal in 2016, where he was responsible
FIRE MARSHALL RESIGNS, 8
AGA’s Family Picnic & Halloween Spooktacular Join Austin Greyhound Adoption for a fun-filled afternoon with your family and hounds at Juniper Hills Farm, just outside of Austin in the hill country in Dripping Springs, Sunday, October 21st, from 12-4 p.m. An afternoon filled with food, fun and a big place for dogs to run around! (muzzles required) There will be hound-friendly games and Greyhound costume contest! There will be vendors and a silent auction. All proceeds go back to the dogs! Tickets in advance are $5 for individuals or $10 for the family ($10 and $15 at-the-door) and includes lunch and all the fun and games you can handle! Lunch, prepared by Onion Creek Kitchens at Juniper Hills Farm, will include pulled pork sliders and grilled chicken.
D.S. native pleads guilty to improper relationship with student STAFF REPORT A Dripping Springs native arrested in 2017 for improper relationship with an underage student has pled guilty in Caldwell County. Sarah Madden FOWLKES Fowlkes, 28, pled guilty on one charge of improper relationship between an educator and a student, a second-degree felony, according to multiple reports. According to a KXAN-TV report, a Caldwell County judge has not accepted Fowlkes’ plea, which if approved, would consist of four years probation. Fowlkes, a former educator at Lockhart ISD, was arrested in March 2017 after an investigation alleged Fowlkes was having an inappropriate relationship with a then 17-yearold student. The Hays Free Press reported in 2017 that Lockhart Police received a report regarding an improper relationship between Fowlkes and the student. During the investigation, authorities suspected Fowlkes engaged in sexual conduct with the intent to arouse or gratify the “sexual desire” of the then student. The case made national and international headlines after Fowlkes was seen smiling in her mugshot.
County judge hopefuls spar in final debate BY EXSAR ARGUELLO With less than a month before Election Day, candidates vying for county judge sparred with each other one last time Oct. 10 as they aim to secure voters before they hit the polls. Democratic candidate Ruben Becerra and Republican candidate Will Conley fought hard against each other at the Texas State University student media debate hosted by KTSW at the San Marcos Activity Center. The candidates focused on topics such as job growth, infrastructure needs, experience and economic developent issues. Conley, a former county commissioner and current chairman for the Central Area Metropolitan Planning Organization
COUNTY JUDGE DEBATE, 2
Page 2
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Thursday, October 18, 2018
Red and blue spend green in lead-up to elections BY MOSES LEOS III High dollar figures, both in campaign contributions and expenditures, highlight a trio of Hays County Commissioner races as six total candidates sprint toward the finish line. All told, candidates raked in a combined $80,000-plus in contributions and spent $44,000plus in expenses from July 1 to September 29, according to 30-day campaign finance reports filed Oct. 9. One of the more costly commissioner seat races is in Pct. 3, where Democrat Jimmy Alan Hall takes on Republican Lon Shell. Together, the two have spent more than $17,000 on the race, which will fill the seat vacated by current county judge candidate Will Conley. Shell led the way with just over $10,000 in expenses, including $4,540 to Patterson and Company, an Austin-based consulting firm. Hall, a Wimberley area attorney, spent $7,030 on his campaign during the reporting period, the majority of which went to Austin res-
Hays County candidates raked in a combined $80,000-plus in contributions and made $44,000-plus in expenses from July 1 to September 29, according to 30-day campaign finance reports filed Oct. 9. ident Christopher Hall for salaries, wages and contract labor. But Shell, who was appointed to the Pct. 3 commissioner’s seat after Conley announced his candidacy, outpaced Hall in political contributions, collecting just over $17,000 for his campaign compared to Hall’s $3,450. Shell received contributions from various current and former elected officials including Conley, Hays County Sheriff Gary Cutler, Wimberley City Council member Gary Barchfeld and Pct. 4 Commissioner Ray Whisenant. Shell has close to $12,000 left in his war chest, while Hall has $914. Hall and Shell combined have $10,500 in outstanding personal loans. Meanwhile, fundraising in the race for Whisenant’s Pct. 4 seat has been
lopsided as Republican candidate Walt Smith, a Dripping Springs resident and political consultant, raked in roughly $27,600 in contributions during the reporting period. Democrat Omar Baca, a San Marcos resident and Smith’s opponent, only pulled in $2,225 in contributions during the same time frame. A combined $3,500 of Smith’s contributions derived from Political Action Committees (PAC). That includes $1,000 contributions from PACs with Dallas-based engineering firm CP&Y, Houston-based civil engineering firm Cobb-Fendley, Gulf States Toyota, as well as a $500 contribution from Dallas-based design firm Huitt-Zollars. Smith also received a $500 contribution from James Brett Binkley, CEO
of Houston-based engineering firm Binkley and Barfield. While Smith spent just over $6,600 on his campaign, he still has $29,237 left in his war chest. Baca, however, outspent Smith during the reporting period by amassing expenses in excess of $6,800, the majority of which was spent on printing and advertising expenses. Baca only has $781 left, and still has $10,750 in outstanding personal loans. A similar theme has played out in the race for Pct. 2 Commissioner, where Democrat Richard Cronshey is challenging Republican incumbent Mark Jones. Jones, who faces opposition for the first time since he was elected to office in 2010, pulled in $27,000-plus dollars in
contributions from more than 70 donors. Jones received a $2,000 contribution from J.B. and Kelley Kolodzey, along with $1,000 contributions from PACs with Houston-based engineering company Klotz Associates and engineering consulting firm RS&H. A $1,000 contribution from the Dahlstrom Family, LP was also made to the Jones campaign, along with smaller amounts from several public officials such as Pct. 5 Justice of the Peace Scott Cary, Kyle Mayor Travis Mitchell, Hays CISD trustee Will McManus and Barton Springs Edwards Aquifer Conservation District board member Mary Stone. Roughly $7,400 was spent on Jones’ campaign, but he still has roughly $27,000 left in his war chest. Cronshey, a longtime educator, spent $6,800 on his campaign during the reporting period, the majority of which went toward political advertising. Cronshey has $9,700 left in his coffers.
County Judge Debate Continued from pg. 1
PO), focused much of the night on his experience with county politics, citing his track record as one that has focused on the needs of the county. Becerra did not agree, citing the county’s $455 million debt and tax incentives to major companies like Amazon have burdened the financial stability of Hays County. “Of that debt, we have created many other revenue streams beyond property taxes and sales tax to help pay that back,” Conley said. “The county’s credit rating is at its highest level it’s ever been. It’s like your personal credit score. I will also, with few exceptions, say that debt was voted on overwhelming by the citizens of Hays County.” Conley said the debt was an investment the county made for conservation efforts, transportation systems and park space. Conley also argued that debt is being reduced not by citizens’ property taxes, but by different revenue sources independent to what the citizenry
of Hays County pays. “Here’s what I heard just now, ‘this is very complicated, you don’t understand, and you voted for it, so shut up,’” Becerra said. “I don’t subscribe to that philosophy or mentality. We vote for things with the assumption that people are being useful and responsible with our hard earned money. Becerra was concerned with the “chronic waste” of taxpayer dollars. As an example, he cited the $100 million county jail expansion project, which was approved by voters in 2016. “My opponent lives in a non-factual fantasy. He just speaks in broad accusations without even knowing the details of any of that,” Conley said, rebutting Becerra’s talk of ‘chronic waste’. Conley countered, citing the county’s financing rating is the highest it’s ever been and savings is the highest it’s ever been, doing so by building a half a billion dollars worth of state infrastructure on time and under budget.
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PHOTO BY EXSAR ARGUELLO
County Judge candidates exchanged comments in a heated discussion about the future of county politics during the student media debate at the San Marcos Activity Center.
“That is indisputable. Indisputable,” he said. On economic development, Becerra said he is not a fan of tax incentives for big companies while small businesses struggle to optimize success. Becerra criticized Amazon, as the trillion dollar corporation just raised its minimum wage to $15 all while cutting incentives and benefits to alleviate cost to its fulfillment center employees, directly affecting employees in Hays County. “So what I would do is make sure we get accuracy in reporting and get our money’s worth so that everyone has true competitiveness coming into our county,” Becerra said. Conley said he has been one of the leaders in economic development for Hays County, citing his efforts as one of the founders of the Greater San Marcos Partnership, an economic development organization serving Hays and Caldwell counties which he called a success. “Companies today have
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the ability to do almost anything they want to do internationally, so you are competing on an international field,” Conley said. “And what you need, first and foremost, when you’re looking to attract a company, is a plan and a way to implement that plan. We’ve developed comprehensive plans working with all stakeholders in our community that have put us on the offensive.” Conley said the students at Texas State are part of the economic development plan as the university provides a skilled workforce that will bring companies to Hays County. Becerra criticized the GSMP as an organization funded by tax dollars, adding community members have called the organization “whale hunters,” pouring hundreds of thousands of dollars to compete globally. “It’s important to me to be truthful in the things we are doing in every way when it comes to your future,” Becerra said. “My
kids are staying here too. It’s our future and our community. Let’s just do everything we can efficiently.” Becerra said he has a passion for serving people and will continue to do so throughout his life. “That mentality, that looking glass, that kaleidoscope is what’s missing in our commissioners court,” Becerra said. “I see the lack of effort to make things happen.” Conley said the best way to resolve poverty issues is to have jobs available for the people in a community, then to equip people with basic resources like food, shelter and water. “Those are things we have done directly in the county, those are things we have done partnering with our nonprofits in this community and with our municipalities and we will continue to do,” Conley said. “You’re not promised anything in America except a fair opportunity and there is a fair standard no person should fall below.”
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Page 3
Gas Pipeline
Continued from pg. 1 Project include EagleClaw, entities. Kinder Morgan has Apache Corporation and started the negotiations XTO Energy, Inc., which is a process for 82 parcels of subsidiary of Exxon Mobil land in Hays County needCorporation among others, ed for the project. according to the KTMP The company continues release. to secure the necessary Roughly 31.5 miles of the permits and regulatory reproposed pipeline will go quirements needed prior to through Hays construction. County, said That includes Allen Fore, working with Allen Fore, vice president Texas vice president the of Kinder Railroad Morgan. Commission, of Kinder The pipeline the U.S. Fish Morgan said will stretch and Wildlife through arthe purpose of Serivce, the eas between Army the pipeline is U.S. Wimberley Corps of and Dripping to take excess Engineers Springs, as the Texas natural gas as and well as areas Commission between San on Environpart of crude Marcos and Qualoil production mental Kyle. The projity. ect will add However, in West Texas to the 13.5 the current and get it into proposed miles of existing KMTP route is at a the market. pipeline in the level” Fore said it will “high county. and modifiFore said cations are avoid flaring, the purpose of expected as or burning the pipeline is KMTP takes to take excess a closer look, off excess natural gas as Fore said. natural gas, part of crude “A lot of oil production time and and capture in West Texas has “an important planning and get it into gone into it the market. before we natural Fore said it proposed it resource will avoid flarand we don’t ing, or burnpropose and get it to ing off excess projects that markets for natural gas, don’t meet and capture or exceed producers.” “an important requirements natural refrom regulasource and get it to markets tory agencies,” Fore said. for producers.” “We know what they want Construction along the and expect and they’re vigipipeline route will create lant and we’re very much an 2,500 jobs, with KMTP pay- advocate for environmental ing an estimated $1.6 miland landowner concerns.” lion in ad valorem revenue annually to entities in Hays RISING TIDE OF CONCERNS County. The company curBut concerns are growrently pays roughly $20,000 ing among landowners who in annual property tax. have already been contactKMTP is currently going ed by KMTP as part of emithrough the introductory nent domain proceedings. phase of the project with Patrick Reznik, attorney affected landowners, as well and counselor at Braun and as local municipalities and Gresham law firm in Drip-
ILLUSTRATION COURTESY OF KINDER MORGAN
The pipeline project calls for a 430-mile underground pipeline that starts in Waha in far west Texas and stretches across the Hill Country before ending in Colorado County, roughly 80 miles west of Houston. Officials estimate construction starting by fall 2019 and for the pipeline to be in service by the fourth quarter of 2020.
ping Springs, said KTMP is currently asking to survey affected landowners property, which is one of the first steps in the process. That process is done via land agents, who contact landowners and try to work out compensation and easement terms and set up a possible survey. Fore said those surveys determine the suitability for construction in a civil and environmental manner. However, many property owners are concerned about the potential impact of the pipeline. One issue extends to property damage due to installation of the line. KTMP requires a 50-foot easement on a property for the 42-inch line, as well as a 50-foot temporary easement to allow for equipment to dig the line. “Growth or trees within that 100 feet – it’s all going to be cleared,” Reznik said. Worries also extend to property devaluation as a result of removing wooded area and trees. Additionally, existing laws permanently prohibit construction or
development over the 50foot easement. The only exception is residential or commercial utility or infrastructure lines, Reznik said. A “sense of anger” is also brewing among some property owners who question the need for a pipeline in the area. Reznik said while areas in South Texas are used for energy pipeline, areas in Hill Country, such as Gillespie, Blanco and Hays counties are not used to such a practice. Concerns about safety of having a natural gas pipeline on their property also circles in the minds of homeowners, Reznik said. Constant monitoring of the line, ranging from internal checks utilizing high-end equipment, to external aerial photography to prevent encroachment on the easement, assists KMTP in maintaining safety of its pipeline, Fore said. “It’s upsetting to landowners who are going to see massive amounts of trees cleared from properties,” Reznik said. KMTP plans to meet with affected landowners
and discuss all phases of process, including construction. The goal is to start discussions early and have a good dialogue, in order to address any concerns landowners might have. They also plan to minimize environmental impact on landowners, while also taking into consideration the effect on property in the short and long term. KMTP attempts to plan its pipeline routes by avoiding areas that are either residential or currently being developed, Fore said. The company will also work with local entities as well, primarily when it comes to crossing major highways and roadways. The company will cross several county roads, as well as bore under Interstate 35 between San Marcos and Kyle for the pipeline. Fore said the company does not see adverse impacts on property values due to those factors, but it also depends on each property as well. KMTP will work with appraisers who take into account the “uniqueness
of a person’s property.” Ultimately, the deal is a real estate transaction, where KMTP pays fair market value for “what it would cost to buy” the easement. “Landowners are smart. They’re going to inform us of the uniqueness of the property and that’s part of the negotiations process,” Fore said. Fear and confusion during negotiations process, however, drives additional landowner worries, Reznik said. If a company cannot come to terms with a landowner, they could choose to sue, which leads to a hearing with special commission. Fore said conversations in the past between KMTP and landowners end well, and residents are “satisfied and agreeable to what we’re proposing.” “If Kinder Morgan offers fair easement and construction terms to landowners, that’s a good thing, even though most landowners in Hays and Gillespie County don’t want this pipeline,” Reznik said. But they may not have a choice.”
Page 4
News-Dispatch
Thursday, October 18, 2018
Sports Tiger cross country advances to regionals STAFF REPORT
PHOTO BY WAYLAND CLARK, WFOTOS.COM
The Tigers celebrate after Lane Dominey (9) center emerges from a pile with the football after recovering an LBJ fumble in the first quarter.
Tigers roar past LBJ 52-35 BY MOSES LEOS III
The age-old axiom of practice making perfect swirled through the mind of Dripping Springs Tigers quarterback Tanner Prewit Friday. Following what Prewit believed was “the best week of practice I’ve had in high school,” Dripping Springs put the pedal to the metal in a lopsided 52-35 district win over the LBJ Jaguars at Tiger Stadium. Understanding LBJ was one of the Tigers’ toughest opponents pushed Dripping Springs to put its best foot forward. “LBJ is a good team and we knew it would be our toughest game,” Prewit said. “We started out practice fast Monday and we never let up.” Getting off to a fast start was equally key against a talented LBJ program. Galen Zimmer-
DISTRICT 12-5A D1 STANDINGS
Dripping Springs 3-0 Seguin 3-0 LBJ 2-1 Crockett 2-1 McCallum 1-2 Lanier 1-2 Travis 0-3 Reagan 0-3
THE WEEK AHEAD
McCallum vs. Seguin – Thursday Travis vs. Reagan – Thursday Dripping Springs vs. Lanier – Friday LBJ vs. Crockett – Friday
man, Dripping Springs head football coach, said all three phases of the game excelled Friday, with the team playing its most complete game of the season to date.
Zimmerman said one of the keys was avoiding a similar sluggish start the team experienced in its game against McCallum the previous week. Winning the first drive was also a goal the team set for itself during the week. The Tigers accomplished that by taking a quick 7-0 first quarter lead via a 11-yard touchdown run by Jake Cox. “We wanted to get going early and I felt like our kids had energy coming out of the tunnel,” Zimmerman said. Corralling LBJ’s playmaking ability was a challenge the Tigers fought with early on. The Jaguars showed that explosiveness with an 82yard touchdown run by Jaleel Scott, which tied the game at 7-7. Enter a Dripping Springs’ defense that ensnared the Jaguar offense for the remainder of the first half. The Tigers
forced two fumbles and a turnover on downs, allowing its offense to tally 28 unanswered points over a 12 minute span. The Tigers led LBJ 35-14 at intermission. Zimmerman said adjusting to LBJ’s team speed, which could not be simulated in practice, helped to keep the Jaguar offense in check. Team defense and “doing your job” also helped. “Our kids did a good job of minimizing big plays and making them drive the field on offense,” Zimmerman said. Meanwhile, Dripping Springs’ pass attack thrived against the Jaguar defensive backfield. Prewit led the way by going 15 of 24 for 281 yards and a trio of passing touchdowns. Prewit also rushed for 68 yards and a rushing score. Wide receiver Cameron O’Banan caught seven of those passes for 111 yards and two
touchdowns, while wide receiver Parker Alford caught three passes for 98 yards and a score. Prewit credited the offensive line for giving him enough time to throw. Dripping Springs kept pace with LBJ in the final half and tallied two more touchdowns the rest of the way. “I knew they were in Cover 1 (defense), so it was ‘I know my guy is better than your guy,’” Prewit said. The focus now centers on Friday’s homecoming game with Lanier. That precedes a critical Oct. 26 road game against Seguin. “We’re going to enjoy this. This is a big win,” Zimmerman said. “But after you celebrate it and enjoy it, the next day you put it behind you and focus on being 1-0.”
A golden run from freshman Karsten Bobb highlighted a first place overall finish for the Dripping Springs Tigers girls cross country team Friday at the 25-5A district championships in Austin. Overall, every one of the seven Tiger runners who participated in the 5,000-meter varsity run finished within the top 15 out of 37 total runners. As a result of their finishing times, the Dripping Springs girls team advances to the UIL Region IV meet at Texas A&M Corpus Christi. The Tiger girls team finished with a school-record 20 points at the meet, which was 29 points better than second place LBJ, which had 49 points. Joining Bobb in the top five of the individual standings was freshman Marleena Mickel, junior Ellie Hovre and senior Aubrie Caldwell, who finished third, fourth and fifth respectively. Meanwhile, Dripping Springs boys cross country team also advanced to the Region meet by virtue of a third place finish. The Tigers boys team, which had 52 points on the day, was 12 points behind second place Lockhart. LBJ captured the district crown with 31 points. Dripping Springs sophomore Caleb Lopez finished in sixth place individually, while senior Will Johnson was 12th. The UIL Region IV championships will be held Oct. 22 in Corpus Christi.
Dripping Springs results at the 25-5A District Championships GIRLS Karsten Bobb – 19:07.20
Marleena Mickel – 19:25.70 Ellie Hovre – 19:33.80
Aubrie Caldwell – 19:49.70
Maddie Livingston – 20:43.30
Tigers win in 3 PHOTO BY WAYLAND CLARK, WFOTOS.COM
Dripping Springs’ volleyball team kept its unblemished district record intact Friday with a straight set victory over the LBJ Jaguars at Tiger Gym. Mackenzie Murray and Alexis Haydt carried the Tigers with a combined 18 kills in the match. Dripping Springs’ Avery Kalsu had 21 assists while senior Madi Berkholz finished with 18 digs. The Tigers finished their match with 13 aces and six total blocks against LBJ. Dripping Springs travels to play at Lockhart Friday and closes district play at home against McCallum Oct. 19.
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Kate Ginter – 21:19.20
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BOYS Bobby Holt – 15:55.50
Caleb Lopez – 16:11.10
Will Johnson – 16:37.70 John Babiak – 16.54.60 Kyler Myers – 17:05.40 Polo Lopez – 17:20.60
Harry Miller – 17:30.20
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Page 5
Education
COURTESY PHOTO
Dripping Springs Homecoming Court 2018 STAFF REPORT The Dripping Springs High School 2018 Homecoming Court was announced last week with
the annual parade and community pep rally being held Wednesday, Oct. 17. The Homecoming Court consists of Freshman Duke and Duchess Anthony
OBITUARY GREEN Gaynell Frances Glass Green, age 53, of Dripping Springs, TX, went to be with her Lord and Savior on October 8, 2018, after a courageous fight with pancreatic cancer. Gaynell was born on April 30, 1965 to Edgar and Alice Glass in San Angelo, TX. She graduated from Water Valley High School with valedictorian honors. She continued her education at Angelo State University and earned her bachelor’s degree in Accounting. She worked for Armstrong, Backus and Co in San Angelo for several years, until she met the love of her life, Troy Green. She worked for a CPA firm for a few years before landing her permanent position with Brian Bailey Custom Homes in Austin, TX, where she worked for over 24 years. They were married for over 27 years and raised three beautiful daughters. Gaynell was a wonderful wife and mother. She and Troy enjoyed traveling together and chasing their girls around the country to sporting events. Her eyes would light up when she talked about her girls and how proud she was of them and their accomplishments. One of her final wishes was to see as many of her youngest daughter’s college volleyball games as possible. She was able to make three trips to Corpus Christi in her final two months to attend 5 games. In her spare time, Gaynell was passionate about
crocheting, sewing, and quilting. On the road travelling to volleyball games, Gaynell loved crocheting baby blankets. In her spare time at home, she had a talent for piecing and quilting beautiful quilts, embroidery work, wall hangings, table runners, and anything else she could whip up – a legacy she passed on to her girls. Gaynell was a true testament to what a wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend should be. Her family and friends will live with her in our hearts and she will continue to guide us all to be together, have fun, and enjoy life. Gaynell is survived by her husband of 27 years: Troy Green; three daughters: Jisele Jansante and husband Jason, Shelby Green, Madison Green; one step-daughter: Mikala Wilson and husband Quinton and their three children; her parents: Edgar and Alice Glass; three brothers: Charles Glass and wife Nora, Travis Glass and wife Angie, Roger Glass and wife Melissa; two sisters: Coleen Glass, Janet Jordan and husband Wayne; many nieces and nephews; dear friends and special boss: Brian Bailey. The family especially wishes to thank Bluebonnet Hospice/Palliative Care for their excellent and compassionate care of Gaynell. In lieu of flowers, consider a contribution in Gaynell’s honor to Bluebonnet Hospice/Palliative Care, 12111 Ranch Road 12 #114, Wimberley, TX 78676. A Memorial service will take place at 2 p.m. preceded by a Rosary service at 1:15 p.m., Monday Oct. 22, at St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church in Dripping Springs, TX.
Travel to Paris ... Texas for these
UPCOmiNg EvENTs ➤ mannequin Night Halloween Themed
October 20
➤ Festival of Pumpkins October 27
➤ Christmas Tree Lighting November 17
Events held in historic downtown Paris, Texas.
Abbgy and Leah Taylor, Sophomore Duke and Duchess Cameron O’Banan and Georgia Irons, Junior Duke and Duchess Zach Tjelmeland and Caro-
Texas Crossword
sponsored by...
The senior King and Queen will be announced at the DSHS-Lanier HS football game Friday, Oct. 19. At the conclusion of the Wednesday evening
parade, community members, students and parents gathered Tiger Stadium for a Community Pep Rally, which featured the lighting of the “DS.”
DeMasters - Daniel Insurance Agency, Inc. Serving Hays County since 1983 “Call us for all of your insurance needs” Angiel Dahl
Wimberley: 512-847-5549 or 512-847-9325 Dripping Springs: 512-858-4608
See solution, page 7
Worship in a church of your choice Call 512-268-7862 to join the church directory today.
Sunset Canyon Baptist Church 8:45 AM
Sunday Morning
11:00 AM
Sunday Worship
5:45 PM
Wednesday Meal
6:30 PM
Wed TouchPoint
A Family of Faith...
SCBC Preschool Children Ministries Youth Ministries Family Ministries
Find more online at www.paristexas.com
line Luttrull and the Senior Court of James Arn, Giles Andrews, Price Siemering, Jake Cox, Margaret Marable, Raechel Miskol, Jade Berry and Molly Driggs.
www.sunsetcanyonchurch.org
(512) 894-0480
4000 E. HWY 290
St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church Mass Schedule
Rev. Charlie
Spanish Mass Sunday: 1:30 p.m.
corner of RR 12 & Post Oak in Dripping Springs
Garza, pastor Saturday: 5 p.m. Located at the Sunday: 8:15 a.m., 11 a.m., 5 p.m.
512-858-5667
www.stmartindp.org
Page 6
News-Dispatch
Thursday, October 18, 2018
Finding an alternative
Options available for breast cancer screening, treatment without insurance BY KATIE BURRELL While Texas ranks high in the number of uninsured individuals, diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer isn’t always out of reach for women. According to multiple reports, including a 2018 WalletHub study, Texas ranks 35th in the nation for the state with the best healthcare systems. Some women may avoid getting their annual mammogram due to cost, but area hospitals offer access to financial experts who can help women find the assistance they qualify for. In 2016, the Texas
Where to go
Dr. Kanak Durga Govindaraju at 147 Elmhurst Street, and Barrio Comprehensive Family Healthcare Center at 2810 Dacy Lane, are participants in the program according to Texas Health and Human Services.
Legislature revamped its Healthy Texas Women program, which offers aid to women in households considered to be low-income. The program offers medical services through Medicare and Medicaid at no-cost, including breast
exams and treatment at participating practitioners. There are 13 participating practitioners in and around Hays County according to the Healthy Texas Women’s website, two of whom practice in Kyle. To qualify for free aid from Texas Women’s Health, a woman in a single-person household cannot make more than $2,024 a month. More information about income qualifications can be found by calling 1-877541-7905 or by visiting heathytexaswomen.org. Dr. Jessica Mueller,
OB-GYN at Seton Medical Center Hays, said a woman should get screened regardless of her coverage or lack of coverage. Mueller said doctors can refer patients to financial counselors and can help explain their options. If a woman needs treatment for breast cancer but does not have insurance, government programs exist to help them, and the financial counselors can help explain that on a case-bycase basis. “Women without insurance shouldn’t let that stop them from getting an exam,” said Maria Delga-
dillo, a financial counselor at Seton Hays. “They can meet with us before or after making an appointment and we can help them figure out what they qualify for. Delgadillo said the hospital’s procedure is to meet with an uninsured woman and go through the application process. The results vary as some women qualify for financial assistance, some qualify for payment plans and many can get a $30 copay without having insurance. “They will get treated, of course,” Delgadillo said. “If there’s an emer-
gency, that will get taken care of. Some (Seton) locations offer free screenings (for breast cancer) and we can refer them to those locations.” Another option for low-income and uninsured women is a trip to the Planned Parenthood in South Austin, which offers free diagnostic tools to women in regard to Breast and Cervical Cancer. Planned Parenthood advertises that those who are uninsured, but do not qualify for government assistance, can still receive care at their locations at little or no cost.
The hidden victims of domestic violence BY ASHLEY MENDOZA
Domestic violence is often viewed as an adult issue and the facts that support this belief are overwhelming. The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence estimates that 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men have been victims of physical violence by an intimate partner during their life. Those statistics cannot be ignored, but often there are unseen victims who have also experienced the dangers of living in a home with intimate partner violence. Attached to those victims are children who are at risk of getting caught in the middle of physical violence. Those children could develop chronic issues if they do not receive help processing what they have witnessed. Children do not have the means to access resources in the same way that adults do. They rely on their parent or guardian to provide safety, basic resources and stability. A home with domestic violence is anything but safe and stable. Children might not speak out against the abusive adult for fear of making things worse, because they love both
Some immediate impacts of domestic violence on children are anxiety, sleeplessness, nightmares, trouble concentrating, increased aggression, worry for the safety of a parent and high activity levels. Long-term effects can include physical health problems, behavioral problems in adolescence, and emotional challenges in adulthood such as depression, anxiety and PTSD.
adults, and do not want to pick sides. For many children, witnessing intimate partner violence is a traumatic experience. It is often said that children are resilient, cannot be broken, and will get over it. This thinking is harmful to young victims of domestic violence. Some immediate impacts of domestic violence on children are anxiety, sleeplessness, nightmares, trouble concentrating, increased aggression, worry for the safety of a parent and high activity levels. Long-term effects can include physical health problems, behavioral problems in adolescence, and emotional challenges in adulthood such as depression, anxiety and PTSD. Not only do children experience internal issues, but their external world is usually disrupted because of violence in the home. They might have to change schools, move
to different towns, live in shelters or see a revolving door of adults in their lives. This creates instability and challenges their healing process. The HCWC recognizes the importance of offering services to secondary victims. Secondary victims are individuals who might not have had the abuse directed at them, but are witnesses to what happened. The impacts of secondary trauma are real and can have lasting effects, if not dealt with. HCWC offers counseling services to children who live in homes where domestic violence is occurring or has occurred. Employees work with the protective parent by first offering them services, then getting their child signed up for counseling. Counseling for children involves play therapy, sand tray, art and other creative outlets for children to express their world the best way they
know how – through play. HCWC provides professional counselors who are trained to effectively serve children who have experi-
enced trauma because of domestic violence. The facts are glum, but there is hope. Adults can help children in their heal-
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also plays a factor, Robertson said. The uniqueness of products sold at the market is what Robertson believes is a central role in its success. Businesses at the Dripping Springs Farmers Market have to make or raise their products themselves. Members of the market are all primary producers of what they sell. “I think it’s our rural roots out there and the influx of people who appreciate the quality of the food,” Robertson said. Robertson said part of her job is ensuring every vendor has the appropriate health permits and legal requirements to sell food and products to the public. The market also focuses on green-centric initia-
•
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HELPING OUR NEIGHBORS RETURN TO HEALTH AND INDEPENDENCE DEER CREEK OF WIMBERLEY HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED FOR OVER
30 YEARS. OFFERING SCENIC VIEWS OF THE HILL
COUNTRY AND OF OUR SERENE ENCLOSED COURTYARD.
Continued from pg. 1
complish. “They understand what a good farmers market is and they support it,” Robertson said. Markets that participated in the competition were evaluated in four categories – Focus on Farmers, Healthy Food for All, Pillar of the Community and Champion of the Enviornment. Robertson said the city is waiting for official documents from the American Farmland Trust. Robertson, who oversees as many as 40 venders most weeks, said Dripping Springs has the “perfect example” of a farmers market as it’s just “the right size.” Having the event in a grassy area, which many other farmers markets do not have the luxury of,
This article is part three of a five-week series focusing on raising awareness about domestic violence. October is Domestic Violence Awareness month and we hope to educate our community on this very serious issue.
INTRODUCING
DRIPPING SPRINGS
PHOTOS COURTESY OF LAUREL ROBERTSON
ing process by speaking up for them, and most importantly getting them the help they need.
tives such as utilization of reusable bags. In addition, products that are sold at the market, such as beef and produce, are organically-certified or naturally-grown. Products range from handcrafted fine arts to produce to various meats such as lamb and bison. “We’re kind of like a grocery store out in the open. An alfresco grocery store with some amenities thrown in,” Robertson said. As more farmers markets pop up in the area, Robertson said offering variety in one spot helps to offset the challenge of more options. “People can shop with confidence out there because we’re carefully curating what goes into our market,” Robertson said.
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Page 7
Texas Statewide Advertising Network
Public Notices NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO SUBDIVIDE
An application has been filed with Hays County to subdivide 12.50 acres of property located along Gatlin Creek Road, Dripping Springs, Texas 78620. Information regarding the application may be obtained from Hays CountyDevelopment Services (512) 393-2150. Tracking number: SUB-1158.
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Texas Press Statewide Classified Network 283 Participating Texas Newspapers • Regional Ads Start At $250 • Email ads@texaspress.com NOTICE: While most advertisers are reputable, we cannot guarantee products or services advertised. We urge readers to use caution and when in doubt, contact the Texas Attorney General at 800-621-0508 or the Federal Trade Commission at 877-FTC-HELP. The FTC web site is www.ftc.gov/bizop.
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See puzzle, page 5
(13 week minimum)
Page 8
News-Dispatch
Thursday, October 18, 2018
State Fire Marshal’s office provides detectors to area departments BY MOSES LEOS III
ments in the state asked to join in the program. Improving fire safety Hanna said the prooutreach and education gram has so far distribis leading the Insuruted more than 20,000 ance Council of Texas smoke alarms to 50 Texas (ICT) to work with local cities. The entire proemergency officials to gram operates at a cost of install fire alarms in area $30,000 annually. homes. Orlando Hernandez, It’s all part of ICT’s State Fire Marshal, said “We’re Out to Alarm there were more than Texas” pro16,000 gram, which residenThe program tial fires in provides free fire 2017 alone. has so far alarms to Offering fire defree smoke distributed partments detectors during Fire to residents more than Prevenis a “great tion Week, 20,000 smoke thing” as it which was provides an alarms to 50 extra sense Oct. 7-13. The ICT of security Texas cities. and State to home Fire Marowners and The entire shal’s Office emergency provided officials. program smoke “If we can detectors get these operates to the Kyle smoke at a cost Fire and detectors Wimberley into house, of $30,000 Volunteer it’s going fire departto save annually. ments last lives and week. give people The program began that early notification in 2005 as a joint effort and gives them an early between the ICT and chance to get out,” Herthe State Fire Marshal’s nandez said. office to save lives by ICT’s program is also providing smoke alarms helped by area insurance to residents who might agents who help with need them, according to education and outreach a release. to clients. Mark Hanna, spokesCory Pack, a local person for ICT, said the insurance agent, said program began looking at prevention is something cities and communities they do on a regular that had recently suffered basis as agents. They a fire-related fatality. make sure to let clients Fire departments in New know to check their Braunfels, Waco and smoke alarms and Lockhart were provided replace batteries often. free smoke detectors In addition, insurance during the inaugural agents also inform year. clients of potential As word of the program discounts that could be spread, more fire depart- in place with alarms and
.
PHOTO BY MOSES LEOS III
Kyle Fire Department firefighter Matthew Sweet installs a smoke detector in a Kyle home.
smoke detectors. “The ultimate goal is to protect families. Stuff can be replaced but families can’t be,” Pack said. “There’s an education piece on our end to make sure we’re protecting lives and saving families with early detection with smoke alarms.” For Kyle resident Joe Tijerina, who was one of the first Kyle residents to receive a free smoke alarm, the program
.
offered some peace of mind. While he and his wife had replaced a smoke detector several months ago, two other detectors in the home had not been operating for at least two years. “It does work and it’s good for everyone,” Tijerina said. “I really like that. I appreciate them (firefighters) to come out there for people to do things like that.”
HD45 Campaign Spending Continued from pg. 1
and received $2,000 from the Hays County Democratic Party. Meanwhile, Conley fundraised $76,816.38 from July to late September and spent $33,652.67 during this quarter, more than any other candidate running for a Hays County Commissioners Court seat. Conley has $150,742.35 left in total political contributions as of the last day of the reporting period. Conley received $2,500 in PAC funds from three different entities, $250 from the Hillco PAC, $2,000 from LAN-PAC and $250 from Costello Inc. PAC. The Hays County Republican Party donated $2,000 to Conley’s campaign. House District 45 Strange, a Wimberley resident, has received $100,010 in political contributions this quarter, fundraising more than any other candidate in the county. Strange spent $68,254.53 in expenditures and maintains $59,079.64 in his war chest as of the last day of the reporting period. He also received $17,000 from 17 different Political Action Committees (PACs) during
the latest reporting period, with the large contributions coming from Farmers Employee and Agents PAC of Texas ($2,500) and the TEX PAC ($3,000). Additionally, a variety of political activist organizations, including Texas for Lawsuit Reform, donated $25,000 to Strange’s campaign. Strange received $14,000 from the Hays County Republican Party. Democrat Erin Zwiener received $45,321.16 in political contributions during the last reporting period and maintains $5,576.47 in her war chest. Zwiener has spent $37,506.23 in political expenditures and received a $4,000 political contribution from the Washington D.C.-based Ascend PAC. She also received contributions from political activist organizations such as the Hays Women Political Caucus, which contributed $2,000, as well as separate $500 contributions from the Texas State Teachers Association and the Texas Women’s Political Caucus. Zwiener received $2,000 from the Hays County Democratic Party.
Fire Marshall Resigns Continued from pg. 1
for investigating fires across the county and performing local inspections. Commissioners voted unanimously to allow the Office of Emergency Services to perform Browning’s duties until a replacement is chosen. Gib Watt is serving as interim fire marshal at this time. Watt has served the
city of San Marcos since 2000 and has experience as assistant fire marshal and emergency operations manager. According to county officials, applications have been received for the open position, however a time frame to hire a new Fire Marshal has not been determined.
.
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