NO CLOSURE
CLASS OF 2020
American teacher leaves his German students without saying goodbye.
Hays CISD seniors ride out anticlimactic year.
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© Barton Publications, Inc.
News-Dispatch 75¢
Vol. 40 • No. 25
HaysNewsDispatch.com
Special days postponed Weddings: One more victim of COVID-19
BY ANITA MILLER
the county’s Chief of Staff Alex Villalobos told the Hays County Judge commissioners court Ruben Becerra stopped that the first county short of ordering resiresident confirmed to dents to shelter in place have the disease has on Tuesday; instead direcovered. recting law enforcement Otherwise, there was to step up their efforts to little good news in an enforce the Local Disasupdate on the county’s ter Declaration that went progress in stemming into effect March 15. the spread of the virus — Among other actions, already, Becerra said, first that order limited gather- responders and health ings to 10 or fewer people care providers are seeing and closed the doors of a shortage of personal businesses that provide protective equipment child care. (PPE) like masks. On another front “We are truly lacking related to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, HAYS COUNTY PLAN, 12
BY SAHAR CHMAIS Wedding bells are not ringing amid the Covid-19 outbreak. Many couples have changed their celebration dates and some have even cancelled. Party venues are taking the hit, but some in Hays County have tried to ease this stressful time on their clients. Each venue has its own protocol to handling this oncoming wave of changes. And although the celebrations are coming to a halt, obtaining marriage licenses remains unscathed. Oscar Mejia, a deputy clerk at the Hays County Clerk’s Office, said so far there has been no decrease in marriage certificate requests. But given the rapidly evolving news, agencies need to adapt. While the ability to apply for a marriage licence can be done online, the county clerk’s office is looking to find an alternative method for not going in person to pick up the licencse. No restrictions have taken place yet, but judges are working on a new solution. Judge Beth Smith, Justice of the Peace in Precinct 2, said she is not expecting a decrease in people applying for their marriage certificates. Even though there are no changes in the contractual portion of marriage, the wedding industries by and large are experiencing the shift. Some venue coordinators in Dripping Springs were too busy to accept interviews due to all the rescheduling requests
Serving Buda, Kyle and Northeast Hays County, TX
No ‘shelter in place’ yet for Hays County
couples have been sending in. Some declined to make comments about the situation. Prospect House, a party and wedding venue, have seen an uptick in rescheduling since last week. Many people contacted the hosts about needing to change their wedding date, and in some cases where the bride and groom did not call in, the venue informed the couples about county requirements for large gatherings. “In case it doesn’t go without saying,” said Erich Oswald, co-owner with Kathryn Oswald, “we don’t want to put anyone at risk. The safety of our community at large, not just the safety of clients. [We want to] protect the public and be responsive and adaptable and help folks who have been planning events.” Oswald said he understands the pressure these couples are subjected to. They have planned their wedding for months and suddenly they have to readjust. Some couples have friends and family coming from outside the
WEDDINGS POSTPONED, 12
COVID 19 rules knocks the bottom out of wedding photographer’s plans BY ANITA MILLER The wedding planned for March 21 in Williamson County was going to be a big one with 250 guests. Then, after officials initially limited gatherings to 50 to reduce the potential spread of COVID-19, the guest list was slashed. When that maximum number allowed to gather dropped to 10, the bride made her decision: the wedding would go on that day, just with only the couple, the officiant and wedding photographer Tiffany Snyder Hofeldt in attendance. “I told her, ‘you’re marrying the man of your dreams, and
marriage is about thick and thin,” said Buda-based Hofeldt. “‘It sucks, but you are still together and you are healthy and you are going to be married.’” So far, Hofeldt, who has weddings booked through the fall of this year, hasn’t had any out and out cancelations, but a lot of postponements and, as she puts it, “a lot of tearful brides.” As well as brides with questions. Hofeldt said she was texting clients one recent evening until 10 p.m. “trying to reassure them.” Given the shifts in the social landscape
PHOTOGRAPHER’S VIEW, 12
Nine cases of COVID-19 now confirmed in Hays County BY ANITA MILLER
Hays County’s 8th and 9th cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in two people in separate households with connection to Carpenter Hill Elementary School in Buda. All cases confirmed so far have occurred in adults. The new cases mark four among people with connections to public
schools. A person who had been on the campus at Tobias Elementary School on March 11 was confirmed as having the disease March 18. Another individual who had visited the campus of San Marcos High School on March 12 was confirmed positive for the virus on March 22. Of the 9 cases known as of Tuesday afternoon, 2 were in Buda, 2 in Kyle, 2
VIRUS TIMELINE
See how fast COVID-19 spread throughout community, world.
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INDEX
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MARCH 25, 2020
in San Marcos, 1 in Dripping Springs and one with an Austin address that is within Hays County. In a press release, county spokesperson Laureen Chernow said the city of one is unknown because that person had not yet been interviewed. Tim Savoy, spokesman for the Hays CISD, said
CORONA COUNT, 12
News……………… 2, 4, 5 Opinion Page………… 3 Community…………… 6 Sports…………………… 8
Dealing with COVID
This week’s editions combined STAFF REPORT As the COVID-19 clampdown continues, community newspapers are among small businesses struggling to survive. That situation is made worse by the fact many paper mills in the U.S. are expected to be cutting back. All this has forced the Hays Free Press and News-Dispatch to find new ways to deliver your community news in a timely fashion. Beginning this week, we are temporarily suspending publication of the News-Dispatch, which serves the western portions
Beginning this week, we are temporarily suspending publication of the NewsDispatch and are incorporating western Hays County news in the Hays Free Press. of the county, and are incorporating news from Wimberley and Dripping Springs into the Hays Free Press.
COMBINED PAPERS, 12
Hays Free Press 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 Camelia Juarez, Sahar Chmais Columnists Bartee Haile, Pauline Tom, Clint Younts Proofreaders Jane Kirkham
Marketing Director Tracy Mack Marketing Specialist James Darby Production Manager David White Production Assistant Elizabeth Garcia Office Manager Verna Wommack Circulation/Classifieds David White, Verna Wommack Distribution Kimberlee Griffon
The Hays Free Press (USPS 361-430) 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
Police Blotter…………… 9 Service Directory…… 10 Public Notices……… 11 Classifieds…………… 11
NEWS
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News-Dispatch • March 25, 2020
Harrell Funeral Home changes spurred by COVID-19 BY ANITA MILLER
Delayed memorial services and live streaming of funerals are among options being developed at Harrell Funeral Homes in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Funeral Director Doug
DuBois said he and other staff members are “working with families to schedule memorial services sometime in the future – hopefully after the first of June – following burial or cremation at time of passing.” The statewide ban
Buda waives water disconnects; talks about options to relieve businesses BY ANITA MILLER No one in the city of Buda will have their water turned off for lack of payment and late fees will be waived through April, the city council agreed in a special meeting March 20. The council discussed action to give struggling hotels some financial relief in exchange for employee retention initiatives. Council approved unanimously Mayor George Haehn’s resolution to extend indefinitely the local disaster declaration approved earlier this month, and added the closure of daycare centers, as ordered by County Judge Ruben Becerra. In all matters pertaining to the COVID -19 pandemic, the orders of a city are subservient to those of a county, and counties are subservient to the state. The council also discussed but took no action to defer Hotel Occupancy Taxes (HOT) for February and March. February taxes were due on March 20. That proposal would require that hotels use the money to help retain employees. Already, Director of Tourism Lysa Gonzales told the council, occupancy at Buda’s hotels has been decimated – from 95 to 100 percent in February, to six to 20 percent now, with the majority stuck “sitting in the teens.” She said approximately 39 people have already lost their jobs at Buda hotels. Downtown has also taken a big hit. Main Street Manager Maggie Gillespie said that “last week, all our businesses were open with no changes in hours.” On Monday, March 16, she said about 75 percent of them were open and by the end of the week, “less than a quarter are actually open” and most are providing curbside service and delivery. Of special concern was the Inspired Minds arts center, which had only recently opened its
In opening remarks, Mayor George Haehn took up the language of President Donald Trump, who characterized the current situation as a war against an unseen enemy. doors in the old City Hall building. Deputy City Manager Micah Grau said the owners of the business have requested that their rent to the city be waived or reduced for a time. Already, he said, Inspired Minds has cut back on classes attended mainly by senior citizens who constituted a central portion of their business plan. In opening remarks, Haehn took up the language of President Donald Trump, who characterized the current situation as a war against an unseen enemy. “We are engaged in a series of campaigns and campaigns are a series of battles. Battles are a series of engagements fought by individuals in firefights – that’s what we are in. Our mission is to make sure the people of Buda are as safe as we can possibly make them without trampling on their rights. The execution of that mission is up to individual departments. The campaign is to slow, then stop, then eradicate this virus.” The council also named a task force comprised of the Buda Economic Development Corporation, the Chamber of Commerce, Main Street director, Tourism director and other city staff who are, over the next couple of weeks, to look at ways to help hotels and other businesses. Those issues are expected to be voted on in April but will be retroactive to March 20.
The statewide ban limited gatherings to 10 or fewer people impacts visitation, services and even graveside services
limited gatherings to 10 or fewer people impacts visitation, services and
even graveside services, DuBois said. “We’re also looking at options to live
stream services” in cases where the 10-person limit is likely to be surpassed. All the changes are explained on the company’s website, as well as options for online tributes featuring family photos and even an online “book” for friends
and family to sign. The company is also engaged in “very strict sanitation and disinfectant rules,” DuBois said. For families reluctant to come to a facility, he said arrangements can be made over the phone and online.
Wimberley ISD says online learning instructions coming this week STAFF REPORT
In keeping with efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19, all Wimberley ISD campuses are closed through Friday, April 3. The closure affects all meetings, campus events, practices and extracurricular activities. The situation was addressed in a letter from Superintendent Dwain York to all families with
students enrolled in the district. York also said families should now have received email from the campus of their child or children regarding continuation of learning at home. “On Monday and Tuesday, our teachers will finalize plans for online learning and the creation of instruction packet for students,” York said in the letter which went out
March 21. “The plans will vary by grade level … The goal is to roll out these learning plans on Wednesday.” York also addressed student nutrition, saying the district’s Child Nutrition Department will serve breakfast and lunch to students who qualify to receive free or reduced price meals. “These families have been notified of the pick-
up schedule for meals,” York wrote, adding that during the next two weeks any breakfast or lunch meals that are not picked up will be taken to the First Baptist Church at 15951 Winters Mill Parkway where community families in need can pick them up after 1:15 p.m. York also urged families to visit wimberleyisd.net for the latest news from the district.
Dripping Springs ISD turns to video conferencing for board meetings STAFF REPORTS
com/watch?v=L2XkULR5PqM&feature=youtu. Taking advantage of be. Gov. Greg Abbott’s tempoAs of Sunday, the disrary restrictions on open trict’s teachers were demeetings laws, the Dripveloping online instrucping Springs ISD turned tional guidelines. Already, to videoconferencing for the district had deterthe March 23 workshop mined that the primary and regular meeting of resource for students in the board of trustees. grades K-3 will be in the Board members parform of paper/pdf files ticipated remotely, and and that they will also members of the pubbe able to access enrichlic were able to watch ment resources on their via a You Tube link at Classlink accounts. https://www.youtube. For students in grades
4-12 the plan is to use an online format using Canvas. “Teachers will be reaching out to students beginning Wednesday, March 25 with directions/ next steps,” the DISID said in a Sunday message. Concerning technology, the district said it ran an online survey asking parents “what technology/resources they had/ would need for online learning,” and that the survey drew “more than 2,900 responses repre-
Inspired Minds of Buda postpones art classes, asks city for rent break BY CAMELIA JUAREZ
ing scheduled April 7. “Since so much of our Two months after clientele is over 60 and the opening its doors, the classes are held in close Inspired Minds Center quarters, closing up shop is has postponed classes to the moral thing to do. It is prevent community spread sad though because we were of COVID-19 and hopes the just starting to get on our feet city will suspend rent for and figure everything out,” the next couple of months. Guerra said. The Inspired Minds Despite classes being Center owner Susan Guerra postponed, for an undecided said the center has a lease time, locals can still enjoy with the city so she hopes local art from the comfort city council understands of home because the galher inability to pay. City lery can be seen and items officials have told her not bought online. to pay April’s rent, but she Guerra said she is working awaits a final vote from city with her team to try and imcouncil, which has a meet- plement some classes online.
senting more than 5,200 students.” Some 600 devices were requested as a result of the survey. In addition, the Tech team is working on potential solutions for hot spot/internet connection issues,” the district said. While instruction has moved online, the district will still be providing free and reduced-price breakfasts and lunches in part through the “Tiger Totes” program.
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Opinion
QUOTE OF THE WEEK “We are engaged in a series of campaigns and campaigns are a series of battles. Battles are a series of engagements fought by individuals in firefights – that’s what we are in. Our mission is to make sure the people of Buda are as safe as we can possibly make them without trampling on their rights. –George Haehn, Buda Mayor. Story on page 2.
News-Dispatch • March 25, 2020
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EDITORIAL
Local doctors, gov’t lead while federal gov’t flounders Local governments across Hays County deserve mostly high marks for acting with maturity and dedication over the past two weeks to do what is within their power to minimize the destruction of the COVID-19 outbreak. Without these tough-minded measures, by some models the virus could spread to as many as 75% of people – or about 187,00 Hays County residents alone – by mid-summer. A large number of those will be mild cases or they will be asymptomatic, but as many as 3,000 to 4,000 could result in death. While that’s worst-case scenario modeling, it’s serious work by health officials, and even lesser models are horrific. Thus the interventions by local officials. The good works locally are easy to find: • Kyle’s dramatic but carefully calibrated action at a specially-called meeting - to order many local businesses, including day cares, to close. It was done in close consultation with local medical experts, and with the city careful to be transparent by including the press in quickly arranged tele-meeting. The City’s emerging status as a regional medical center has served it well. • Hays County has acted decisively on public meetings and business closings. • All the school districts have worked hard to balance the needs of kids, parents, nutrition, safety, and healthcare. • Buda, San Marcos, and Dripping Springs have stepped up with aggressive measures, even if some places, such as tourist centers in Wimberley, were initially reluctant to lose business. • Of course Austin has been a national leader in taking the virus serious, cancelling SXSW and shutting down bars and restaurants early. The state of Texas, after hesitating early – and losing some valuable time – has shown leadership in educating citizens, marshaling resources and taking action, including allowing for the postponement of local May elections and pushing back runoffs for the party primaries from May to July. Gov. Greg Abbott deserves a round of applause. All of us owe a thank you for these efforts, and especially thanks to the heroic efforts of local workers who are keeping open supply chains, food stores, hospitals, pharmacies, doctor offices – and other pillars of the economy. We’re all in this one together. Unfortunately, and there is no use shying away from this: coming out the other side of this is will be harder because of what may be the single most blatant failure of preparedness by our federal government in the history of the nation. (To debate what ranks first takes a student of history willing to argue the intricacies of the Harding Administration scandals or the epic failures of the Buchanon presidency leading up to the Civil War.) As we push forward we must get to the root of these mistakes – to learn from them, correct them and ensure that they are not ongoing. Because the COVID-19 pandemic started on the other side of the world, we had months of warning that other nations did not have. Instead of making good use of the time, the administration downplayed the pandemic, even while some allies, we now know, were selling off stock. Instead of ramping up production of medical equipment and virus-testing kits during the quiet
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time before the virus hit us, our federal government continued to actively downplay the threat for political reasons – and the president himself specifically lied about both the number of the cases and the potential for spread, saying the number would soon be down to zero, when every scientific report both within and outside his administration said otherwise. The scientific team that should have been in charge of the effort inside the White House had been disbanded a couple of years before, leaving the president’s son-in-law, among others, in charge. Only when the depth of the crisis became impossible to explain away, only when the misinformation became evident to Wall Street and the stock market crashed, did the president’s team begin to take this seriously. Even then, the response was inept and confused. While a better team is now seemingly in place, and respected scientific leaders have been brought to the forefront, briefings are still confused, lines of authority blurred, and it is not clear that the full power of the federal government has been brought to bear on the problem. In World War II, the United States amazed the world by turning its scientific ingenuity and industrial might to the task of churning out munitions, bombers and ships at a rate Hitler thought impossible. Yet here we are today – infinitely more powerful than we were then – but we have not produced even a fraction of the virus test kits per person that places like China or Hong Kong or South Korea were able to produce, though we had more advanced warning, and had their prototypes and the World Health Organization models to go by. Just two weeks ago the president told us this virus was a hoax, made up by the media and his enemies, not to listen, nobody would really get sick. This last week he was telling us it’s a big deal, all business should shut down, but it’s not his fault. Tens of thousands, perhaps millions of lives are stake. Trillions – yes – trillions of dollars will be lost in the recession and the bailout. (At least the bailout is a step by the Administration and the Congress in the right direction.) An ounce of prevention, a little real leadership, and few hundred million could have gone a long, long way a month ago, back before we were all on lock-down, back before testing was too late, back before all that was left to stop the virus were remedies of last resort. What we can’t afford now are the same mistakes of dawdling and posturing and nepotism as we fight the virus. It’s too late to get tests early and isolate individuals instead of whole communities. Now we need tools to fight. We need medicines, vaccine trials, protective gear for doctors and nurses to go into battle. We need them at any cost, and we need them now. This shortage was utterly predictable. In fact, it was predicted. It was just ignored by the administration. Excuses are unacceptable from here on out, for any reason. We can all agree to disagree on whether America needed to be made great again four years ago. But maybe we can all agree that a nation that can’t even equip its doctors like a Third World Country needs to be made great again today. Let’s get at it, Mr. President. Let’s get at it. We’re all with you – if you’ll lead.
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.
Is it time to hold, or fold? The gambler has left the table, and a bug has called our bluff. For fear of the virus, our global village abandoned our streets, shut down our commerce, schools and industry, and shuttered us inside our homes amid the concept of social distancing. COVID played its card and we folded. An organism we cannot see that could potentially kill us called our bluff – on giving in to the tug of tribalism, on continuing with our consumptive lifestyles – as individuals and as nations – while insisting we are preserving our precious natural resources. Then over the weekend, we lost “The Gambler” Kenny Rogers. He has done to us what he pleaded with “Lucille” and “Ruby” not to do – leave. We still have cards on the table, though, and the ace is ace among them is politics. Can we move out of our comfort zone and power through
Guest Column by Anita Miller
our differences in order to see and accomplish a shared future? Can we counter the tug of tribalism and pull together as our forebearers did during World War II? To do that we’ll need to take incremental but bold steps, as the very oldest among us did then, not just accept but embrace sacrifice and see ourselves first and foremost as Ameri-Cans. Or is that new bluff – that we can continue to posture and retreat amongst like minds and still somehow survive? That we can ignore science for platitudes, wisdom for soundbites and morality for expediency? There are other cards on the table as well – racism, sexism, ageism. There’s pride
and prejudice and sloth and lust and all the other golden oldies to boot. Each of them demands a decision of us. While we’re all but shut indoors, concentrating on the things we cannot do, something has started to happen in far-flung spots on the globe. Our planet began to heal. Dolphins and swans have reappeared in the nowclear waters of Venice and NASA images showing vastly improved air quality in China where factories were shuttered, among other observed instances of a cleaner world. We don’t know how long any of that will last, but maybe it will just long enough for us to learn Mother Nature’s intended lesson: She can throw at us things for which we are completely unprepared, for which we have no precedent, defense or offense. It’s time to decide about those cards on the table. Do we hold ‘em, or do we fold’em?
Pulled every which way
M
ost of the time, Goldie, our five-year old Catahoula mix puppy, is pleasant to walk with. Except for today. Every possible distraction was more interesting to her than what we were to do there, that is get some exercise and go retrieve the mail and obviously bring it back home. Not today. One time we were just innocently walking by a parked car and Goldie breaks into a barking fit, along with pulling and tugging on the leash. Catahoula’s are powerful dogs and trying to dissuade her from her unseen prey required most all of my age-diminished strength to pull her away. In fact, this happened several times: first with a squirrel, then with a child on a scooter, and a motorcycle, which drives her crazy. So, instead of a pleasant walk to get some much-needed exercise in these days of self-quarantining due to the COVID19 virus, it was a struggle to control my dog’s appetites and desires. Then it hit me. That’s exactly what’s happening to
And I can say it hasn’t come soon enough. The more TV Goldie news I watch, the more news magazines I read, the more I Walks talk with people who all have by Mark Staub a different piece of information or dire prediction, the more I’m feeling my head will the general population as we explode. seek to navigate the dangerSo, the only solution, ous waters of this coronavirus although I know it’s a decision landscape we all now inhabit. Goldie won’t appreciate, is The world is awash in equal to just stay inside and wait parts facts and misinformathe darn thing out. Some say tion. It seems the government it will be eight weeks. Some was totally taken by surprise, say it will be until the end of even though scientists have March. But really, the truth is, warned since the last panno one knows. And I know I demic that something like this can’t keep Goldie all cooped was coming and would not up just because I want to keep only be around for a while, my arms in my sockets and it would come back with my head on my shoulders. increased severity, until we Just when you’re out and figure out a vaccine that will about, please keep an eye out cure it. for a dog and a guy who’s beI have great hope that ing pulled every which way. we will find a cure, but our leaders in Washington aren’t Mark W. Stoub, who lives helping. It seems President in Kyle, is an award winning Trump, and to a lesser degree, author two novels: “Blood UnVice President Pence seem der the Altar,” and “The Fifth to change their tune almost Trumpet: Fire in the Blood” daily. They seem finally to be taking this threat seriously. mj.stoub@gmail.com
LETTER TO THE EDITOR THANKS FOR SPREADING THE CHEER Dear Editor, Tonight we here in Kyle had the nicest surprise. Been house bound for 8 days and counting. We are seniors and were trying to find something we haven’t already seen on TV. All of a sudden there were car
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horns screaming and honking. We ran to the front door to find a cavalcade of cars going by waving and yelling Hello to everyone!!!! You have no idea how this lifted our spirits. To think our residents cared enough to share their time and efforts to show there are still people who care and have not forgotten us. And in case anyone has ever forgotten when the going gets
LETTERS GUIDELINES
tough, Americans will always stand together. I don’t tweet or Facebook, so thought I would try e-mail to get the word out about how much this was appreciated. It warmed my heart, raised my spirits and renewed my Faith. Best regards and heartfelt thanks, Betty Anderson Kyle
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.
NEWS
Page 4
News-Dispatch • March 25, 2020
H-E-B develops protocols to keep community supplied BY SAHAR CHMAIS
Shoppers stand outside of H-E-B, leaning on their empty carts, waiting so they can finally get a turn inside where only about 25 people can shop at once. H-E-B has taken many measures to ensure that it reduces the spread of the Coronavirus while people shop in-store, but their efforts did not stop onsite; a plan has been also implemented for those who cannot shop in person. Other parts of the plan includes protective measures and temporary raises for employees, and food banks and non-profits are receiving some aid from H-E-B. Recently, H-E-B placed red stickers on the ground to mark the appropriate distance people should stand apart, promoting social distancing. They
have also placed clear shields at pharmacy and cash registers as a protective layer between employees and consumers. The pharmacy has begun offering free deliveries on prescriptions, a feature available in select areas, but not yet in Kyle. Employees will receive a pay raise of an additional $2 per hour from March 16 through April 12 due to the higher volumes of demand. And because pressures are so high on employees, H-E-B has changed its hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. until further notice. In response to shortages, H-E-B spokespersons said it is fully stocked. “H-E-B has been preparing for coronavirus and we are in a strong position to keep replenishing our shelves. Customers should not panic, as we are continuing to restock shelves
“H-E-B has been preparing for coronavirus and we are in a strong position to keep replenishing our shelves. Customers should not panic, as we are continuing to restock shelves around-the-clock. We are encouraging preparedness, not stockpiling – please buy what you need and leave some for your neighbor behind you. We are in this as a community and it’s important to keep calm. H-E-B Partners are ready to help.” –H-E-B Facebook post
around-the-clock. We are encouraging preparedness, not stockpiling – please buy what you need and leave some for your neighbor behind you. We are in this as a community and it’s important to keep
calm. H-E-B Partners are ready to help.” In an effort to keep items on the shelf, H-E-B placed restrictions on the amounts of products consumers can purchase, especially staple items
that people have been buying in bulk. Limitations on food items include meats, water, eggs, frozen foods, pastas, rice, canned goods, oatmeal, cereal, milk and bread. Non-food items include acetaminophen, baby wipes and diapers, sanitary products, different types of tissues, paper towels, disinfecting wipes and sprays, bleach, hand sanitizers and soaps, latex gloves, masks and rubbing alcohol. Outside of the store, H-E-B has partnered with Favor to deliver food to people 60 and older, an age group with a higher risk if they contract the virus. The deliveries will be free-of-charge for the first 30 days. To reduce contact, the groceries will be dropped off at the doorstep without interaction. For community support, the company will
initially push $3 million toward organizations to help those affected by COVID-19. Approximately half of the money, $1.2 million, will go toward 18 food banks in Texas, which would provide over six-million meals. Mobilized home-feeding services for seniors and low-income families will receive $500,000. Another $300,000 will be given to Texas Biomedical Research Institute to support the researchers working on the coronavirus. The final $1 million will be pledged to various nonprofits that are helping the community during the virus outbreak. If a community member is looking to help families effected by COVID-19, H-E-B has launched a Texans Helping Texans initiative where consumers can donate at the register.
County Food Bank changes Residents warned to be alert for price, gouging, other scams its distribution protocols STAFF REPORT
STAFF REPORT
The Hays County Food Bank has changed its distribution model in order to adhere to social distancing intended to slow the spread of COVID-19 — just as Executive Director Eleanor Owen-Oshan predicted. And, more changes may follow as the full effect of the closure of bars, restaurants and other businesses across the county becomes known. As of March 19, the food bank has not yet experienced a “mad rush,” Communications Coordinator Mallory Best said. “We anticipate the need to grow as more and more people are forced to stay home from work and are unable to provide for their families’ needs.” For the foreseeable future, all food bank distributions will be of bagged food and will be conducted via drivethrough in the open air with limited interpersonal contact, (volunteers and staff will be practicing safe social distancing and will be wearing gloves.) Distributions will remain at the same time and location, which include: • Tuesdays at noon at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, 801 N. Burleson, Kyle • Thursdays at noon at The Connection Church 1235 S. Loop 4, Buda Clients may receive food twice a week. If
The COVID-19 threat and the response to it is unprecedented in the minds of most living Americans. One aspect of the crisis, however, is something we’ve seen in the wake of natural disasters like floods and hurricanes. It’s time to be on the lookout for price gouging, the Texas Attorney General’s Office and the Federal Trade Commission warned on Monday. “Price gouging is selling or leasing necessary items at an exorbitant or excessive price,” Hays County warned in a press release. “Some examples include fuel, food, medicine, lodging, building materials, construction tools, etc.” There are reports of other scams as well, including one being circulated by email that purports to make available money to those struggling. “While governments have discussed offering compensation to those affected, there are no government programs currently in effect. Anyone who tells you they can get you money now is a scammer.” As always, residents are encouraged to treat email suspiciously, as scammers try to impersonate official sites. “Don’t click on links or attachments in emails or texts unless you are certain they come from a valid source and you are expecting that email,” the county warned. “Remember that the government will never ask you for fees upfront, nor for your credit/debit card, bank account number, gift cards or Social Security number. Be aware of scams offering coronavirus advise. The best current preventions of social distancing, frequent cleaning and proper hand-washing, etc., have been widely disseminated and there are no cures, vaccinations or other credible preventions available at this time.” Visit https://www. texasattorneygeneral.gov/
In order to qualify for food assistance, people must: • Have a household incline at or below 185 percent of the federal poverty level. • Participate in SNAP, TANF, SSI, Medicaid or the national school lunch program. • Have a temporary food emergency such as los of job.
you are sick the food bank recommends you send a proxy. Those over 60 years of age or are at higher risk for contracting the virus area also encouraged to send a proxy. Proxies must present the bar code issued to the client during their initial visit to be able to get food. Central Texas Food Bank and Hays County Food Bank also encourage everyone in need to visit the Mobile Pantry on Tuesday, April 7 at 8:30 a.m. at San Marcos High School Toyota Rattler Stadium. This is a recurring distribution that happens every first Tuesday of the month. Food bank offices are closed to the public. Donations are being accepted, but anyone
donating should call 512-392-8200 to schedule a drop-off time. Online cash donations can be made at https:// app.etapestry.com/onlineforms/HaysCountyFoodBank_3/donate. html. High on the list of currently needed items are canned tuna, chicken and salmon, mixed vegetables fruits, soups and tomato products. Long-running arrangements with suppliers including H-E-B and Sam’s Club have dropped off. Also needed are hand soap, sanitizer and gloves for staff and volunteers and clean grocery bags, paper, plastic or reusable. For the latest information, check haysfoodbank.org.
Hospitals adopt ‘no visitor’ policy in wake of virus STAFF REPORT
units; patients requiring surgery or other medical Ascension Seton, procedures; and patients Baylor Scott & White and requiring end-of-life St. David’s Healthcare care. One caregiver have all adopted a “no 18 years or older may visitor” policy as part of accompany these paefforts to slow the spread tient populations; the of COVID-19. visitor must pass our Here is their statepreviously established ment: health-screening criteria “COVID-19 continues upon entrance into the to spread within our facility. community, Ascension “While we underSeton, Baylor Scott & stand the importance White, and St. David’s of having the support HealthCare will impleof loved ones during ment a “no visitor” poli- a hospital visit or stay, cy in all hospitals begin- we must prioritize the ning Sunday, March 22. health and safety of our Our priority is to reduce patients and caregivers the transmission risk during this unprecewithin our sites of care. dented pandemic. We Exceptions will be encourage support made for laboring and persons to use alternate post-partum patients; methods of communipatients with disabilities cation to stay in contact or impairments or who with loved ones, such as are elderly; patients phone calls, video chats in the neonatal ICU or texting. (NICU) and pediatric “We will continue to
modify our response protocols as the needs within our community evolve.”
Price gouging is selling or leasing necessary items at an exorbitant or excessive price. Some examples include fuel, food, medicine, lodging, building materials, construction tools, etc.
consumer-protection/ disaster-and- emergency-scams/how-spot-andreport-price-gouging to
learn all the details or make a report of price gouging, or call 1-800-6210508 to report it.
Pay your bill without leaving your home PEC has several convenient ways members can pay their bill without stepping into an office. Whether you want to pay by check, credit, or cash, we have an option for you. Learn more about your options at pec.coop/pay-bill.
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Worship in a church of your choice Call 512-268-7862 to join the church directory today.
Sunset Canyon Baptist Church 8:45 AM
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MASS Schedule Saturday – 5:00 pm • Sundays – 8:15 am, 11:00 am
512-858-5667 www.stmartindp.org
News-Dispatch • March 25, 2020
Page 5
American teacher leaves his German students without saying goodbye BY CAMELIA JUAREZ A Buda resident, who was teaching students English in Germany, had to leave his students without saying goodbye so he could catch a flight home before the U.S. closed its borders. Like all Americans adjusting to the COVID-19 prevention protocols, Fulbright Scholar Clay Parham is finally home in mandatory isolation after several airport screenings that all determined he is healthy. Last week while Americans were stockpiling toilet paper, the Fulbright program warned scholars that they would need to find a way home, so he told his last class that he might have to leave soon. The next day he woke up to President Donald Trump’s announcement that the American borders were closing. “It was scary to wake up and hear that the borders were going to close. The announcement hadn’t clarified that Americans were allowed to come back, so yeah it worried me,” Parham said.
“I had such good connections with my students and we had no idea that would be the last time I would see them. Saying goodbye would have helped the pain a little bit...” –Clay Parham, teacher abroad
He immediately called a travel company, who put him on hold for two hours and once he got hold of someone, they said they would call him back. They never did. As frustration set in, he called another airline only to be on hold for four to five hours. Eventually, he got his flight changed. “Getting a flight? Terrible. Just terrible. It made me really nervous how flights kept getting cancelled or flights changed. I don’t know how, but I did it,” Parham said. At the Dresden airport, his passport was checked twice to confirm he was an
American. Social media reports showed that new screening protocols for Americans returning from foreign countries were causing U.S. International airports like O’Hare and DFW to be packed, causing increased risk of COVID-19 transmission. Parham got a flight to Newark, where he said it was “pretty dead.” He boarded the plane full of only Americans and had a row to himself. “When we got on the plane we had to fill out a questionnaire from the CDC. When we landed, a
CDC representative told us that questionnaire was outdated and we had to fill out another. When we got off they checked our temperature and let everyone with a temperature below a hundred degrees go forward,” Parham said. From Newark to Austin, he wasn’t screened again, but is confident that he wasn’t exposed to COVID-19 in the small village of Weixdorf. “It was what Buda is to Austin. They only had 11 people sick,” Parham said. His biggest disappointment, which weighs on many people across the world, is having an important part of his life ripped away without warning. Like many teachers, he didn’t know that would be the last time he would see the students, especially since they live on another part of the planet. “I had such good connections with my students and we had no idea that would be the last time I would see them. Saying goodbye would have helped the pain a little bit, but I just have no closure,” Parham said.
Salt Lick BBQ still available
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Regional animal shelter seeking foster homes STAFF REPORT Like other civic facilities, the county’s only intake for stray and homeless animals is feeling the pinch of COVID-19 prevention. The San Marcos Regional Animal Shelter is closed to the public but still has an abundance of cats and dogs needing permanent – or at least temporary
– homes. The adoption lobby is closed but staff can process foster homes as well as adoptions through 512-805-2650 or animalservicesinfo@ sanmarcostx.gov. Pickup of fosters will be by appointment only from 5 to 8 p.m. daily. Those interested should contact bweigand@sanmarcostx.gov.
512-302-5555 | www.atfcu.org
The Salt Lick has expanded its takeout offerings in keeping with preventing the spread of COVID-19. Both the Driftwood and Round Rock locations are taking orders over the phone and can also take payment over the phone as well as at curbside pickup. In Driftwood, the full menu, available online, is available for takeout with the exception of fountain drinks, tea, blackberry cobbler and ice cream. Bottled and canned non-alcoholic beverages are also available. If you’re a business that’s still serving the public and practicing healthy safety standards, please let the Hays Free Press know on Facebook.
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The Hays Free Press and News-Dispatch will be combined into one newspaper during the COVID-19 pandemic. We’ll strive to bring you all the news that’s important to you and your communities during that time. For subscribers that would like to receive the physical copy of the newspaper in the mail in addition to the digital copy, email paper@haysfreepress.com. If you’re not a subscriber, you can find the newspaper at a limited number of newspaper racks throughout northern Hays County. For more information, see story on page 1.
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News-Dispatch • March 25, 2020
COMMUNITY
Cowboy actor sabotaged New to vegetable gardening? his own movie career BY TIM MILLER
Texas History by Bartee Haile
– for the surname. “I guess I’m the only cowboy in the business,” wisecracked Sunset Carson in the 1984 interview, “that was named after a used-car lot.” The latest addition to the Republic “stable” did not start out as a leading man. In his first four pictures, all made in 1944, top billing went to Smiley Burnette who made a career out of playing the comic sidekick for Gene Autry and other western stars. After Burnette left Republic in June 1944, Sunset got his big chance. Over the next two years, he had the starring role in 11 westerns tailored to his good looks, horsemanship and limited thespian talent. Sunset attracted an impressive following, especially among children. In a popularity poll of western film stars taken in 1946 by the Motion Picture Herald, moviegoers ranked him eighth. Then the bottom suddenly fell out. Shortly after a prestigious part in a Roy Rogers “extravaganza” with all the big names in western movies, he showed up drunk at a studio function escorted by an underaged girl. A furious Herbert Yates told him right then and there he was finished at Republic. By the end of the year, Sunset was out the door and blacklisted at every major studio. Washed up at 26, Sunset struggled to find work. He made five westerns at a bottom-of-the-barrel studio between 1948 and 1950. The outcast was not seen again on the silver screen for more than 20 years and for the final time in the 1985 turkey Alien Outlaw that was marketed as a sci-fi western. Personal appearances of every description were his bread and butter. He did enjoy something of a short-lived comeback in
the early 1980s as the host of the public television series “Six-Gun Heroes” that showed classic westerns of the B variety. In the meantime, just staying alive was a challenge for Sunset. In 1979 a black widow spider bite almost proved fatal. He came even closer to dying the next year from abdominal cancer, but a surgeon saved his life. However, the Grim Reaper could be kept at bay for only so long. Sunset Carson passed away in 1990 at his home in Reno, Nevada with his fifth wife by his side. He was 69 and a self-destructive hasbeen for the past 44 years. Bartee’s book “Texas Entertainers: Lone Stars in Profile” is full of actors, singers and writers all Texans! Order your signed copy by mailing a check for $26.30 to Bartee Haile, P.O. Box 130011, Spring, TX 77393.
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around? Arrange them on cardboard in a 3-foot square with a 6-inch hole in the middle of your backyard. Buy a bag of garden soil, put some of it in the hole and plant a zucchini seed, or tatume squash if you find it, in the center. The bricks help with heating the soil, water retention and looks great. Cherry tomatoes can withstand less sun, but not your large beefsteak types as they need full sun and more water. Almost all would be better off caged or staked. Your garden is an investment so buy better quality tools, better cages and better seeds. Lowe’s, Home Depot and Natural Gardener has these items as well as plants and seeds. Texas Extension has recommended planting dates and the use of recommended varieties for our area is encouraged. Remember if you want a garden, using any weed and feed products can be harmful to vegetables.
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unset Carson, a star of 1940s westerns, made one of his countless personal appearances on March 29, 1976. But it is safe to say that none of the students and few of the faculty at Denton High School had any idea who he was. An Okie by birth, Winifred Maurice Harrison moved to the Texas Panhandle in 1928 at the age of eight. It was on the family ranch near Plainview that Mick, the nickname of his youth, learned to ride and rope and practiced jumping on the backs of horses by leaping from hay bales. Since Harrison never told his life story the same way twice, facts are hard to come by. He claimed to have followed the example of his father and uncle to become an accomplished rodeo performer while still in his teens. He supposedly spent two years on the South American circuit, where he allegedly won back-to-back “Champion All-Around Cowboy” awards in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Returning to the United States in 1942, Harrison was hired on his dad’s sayso by Tom Mix, the popular screen cowboy, for his Wild West Show. Mix encouraged the ruggedly handsome youth, who had grown to a height of six-foot-six, to give Hollywood a try and even went so far as to open a door or two for him. That enabled the tall Texan to hit the ground running in Tinsel Town. He landed small parts as “Michael Harrison” in Stage Door Canteen, a wartime morale-booster full of famous faces, and Janie, a comedy about a young woman with a thing for men in uniform. Those two flicks led to Harrison’s “discovery” by Lou Grey of Republic Pictures. As a prolific producer of B-westerns, the studio was always in the market for actors who looked and talked like real rather than “drug store” cowboys. Harrison not only fit that profile but could stay in the saddle without falling off! Republic quickly put the promising newcomer under contract. As Harrison recalled in an interview four decades later, executives told him all he had to do was take a two-month acting course and lose his strong Texas drawl. “They talked me into it,” he joked. “And they didn’t have to try very hard.” Having met those requirements, he was called into a meeting to pick his new name. “Michael Harrison” was too long for movie marquees and didn’t sound like a cowboy’s handle. The brain-storming session bogged down until studio boss Herbert Yates stared idly out his office window. Across the street was a large sign advertising “Sunset Motors.” “That’s it!” Yates exclaimed. Moments later, the group agreed on “Carson” – as in “Kit Carson”
becomes a simple raised bed for pole beans – put To those who have 2-4 seeds in each hole. never had a backyard Now take a t-post, pound garden, don’t be afraid; it in, attach a 5-foot tall x food doesn’t just magi1-foot wide piece of wire cally appear the next day. to the t-post. This methWhen cultivating a od works for some types garden, you have to of cucumbers as well. consider what to plant, Gardens take time. If when to plant, when to you have a backyard cewater, but most impordar fence, buy a 10-foot tantly how do you go hog panel fence and lean about it. it up against the fence. A shovel (a digging In the area between the fork is even better) and a panel and fence, lay garden hoe can do it all down cardboard and if that is what you only sheets of newspapers. have. While experienced Now take five-gallon gardeners have raised nursery pots or buckets beds backfilled with with holes in the bottom, soil from GeoGrowers, fill them with soil and Gardenville or Natural place them beneath the Gardener, you don’t need leaning hog panel. Plant that. cucumbers or melons in To make a tiny raised each container, putting garden, try using a in 2-4 seeds per concinder block. Take tainer. This creates less your garden tool, scrap mowing with this simple away all the grass in the trellis and now when footprint of that block, you do mow, you have a loosen up the soil 2-4 place to throw your grass inches deep, take out clippings – on top of that soil in a bucket, your cardboard, making then put the cinder a nice compost pile. block in that footprint Do you have a pile with the soil. Your block of bricks just laying
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News-Dispatch • March 25, 2020
Page 7
‘Waiting week’ and search requirements waived for Unemployment Insurance STAFF REPORT
The waiting week is the first payable week of The requirement for an individual’s claim for people collecting unUnemployment Benefits. employment benefits to Under normal circumconduct active job search- stances, TWC cannot pay es has been waived as part for the first week of a claim of the state’s response to until an individual receives the COVID-19 pandemic. 2 times their weekly benefit Also waived is the “waiting amount and returns to fullweek” that required job time work or has exhausted seekers to go without bene- their benefits. However, fits for one week. The mea- by waiving the waiting sures, taken on order from week, Gov. Abbott has Governor Greg Abbott, provided the opportunity “support the State’s efforts for TWC to provide relief to to address the impact the Texans who need it. COVID-19 virus is having Previously to be eligible on the state’s economy and for unemployment benits workforce,” the Texas efits, applicants were reWorkforce Commission quired to register for work said in a news release. search on WorkinTexas.
com and meet minimum number of work search activities per week. TWC is temporarily waiving these requirements to ensure all Texans can have access to resources when in need. Those seeking to apply for unemployment benefits will need to submit an application. In order to apply you will need: • Last employer's business name and address • First and last dates (month, day and year) you worked for your last employer • Number of hours worked and pay rate if you worked this week (including Sunday)
• Information related to your normal wage • Alien Registration Number (if not a U.S. citizen or national) Once you have an unemployment benefits claim, you can sign up for electronic correspondence for online access to your unemployment benefits correspondence. Electronic correspondence allows you to receive most, but not all, of your unemployment notices and forms electronically in a secure, online mailbox. You are responsible for regularly checking your online inbox, regardless of whether you receive an email
notifying you of new mail. All electronic correspondence documents are also available as accessible versions for visually impaired customers. Job seekers can call their local Workforce Solutions office for access to job-search resources, job postings and training programs, as well as assistance with exploring career options, résumé and application preparation, career development and more. Customers also may connect with potential employers through TWC’s online job-search engine, by visiting WorkinTexas. com.
Texas state parks close public-serving facilities and scheduled programs After careful evaluation of the ongoing public health situation, Texas State Parks has limited park programming and closed public access to park headquarters, visitor centers and park stores starting at noon March 19. “Our main priority has always been the health and wellbeing of our visitors and staff, and in order to maintain this standard to the best of our abilities TPWD facilities will be modifying operations as a precautionary step towards protecting public health,” said Carter Smith, executive director of the Texas
Parks and Wildlife Department. “While we have worked hard to provide access to state parks through much of Spring Break, we have now reached a point where changes are imperative for safety reasons. I am grateful to our State Parks team and volunteers for their valiant work during this exceedingly difficult time and thank our visitors for their patience and understanding as we continue to evaluate additional measures to ensure the safety of everyone in the parks.” As part of these operational changes, parks will
be suspending all cash transactions where feasible. Visitors are encouraged to utilize the self-pay stations, the online reservation system and credit card transactions at this time. Other reduced services include the suspension of equipment rentals and interpretive programs. Park visitors should check the Texas State Parks Alert Map regularly for the latest information about the status of parks. In addition to the operational changes at Texas State Parks, TPWD law enforcement and boat registration offices, including
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BAPTIST First Baptist Church-Buda 104 San Marcos St., Buda First Baptist Church-Kyle 300 W. Center St., Kyle Hays Hills Baptist Church 1401 FM 1626, Buda Sledge Chapel Missionary Baptist Church 709 Sewell, Kyle Southeast Baptist Church 5020 Turnersville Rd., Creedmoor Manchaca Baptist Church Lowden Lane & FM 1626
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St. Anthony Marie Claret Church 801 N. Burleson, Kyle St. Michael’s Catholic Church S. Old Spanish Trail, Uhland CHRISTIAN
Santa Cruz Catholic Church
1100 Main Street • Buda, Texas 78610 Office: 512-312-2520 • Fax: 512-295-2034 • santacruzcc.org Rev. David Leibham, Pastor • Fr. Rito Davila, Parochial Vicar CONFESSION Saturdays: 4 p.m.-5 p.m. MASS SCHEDULE: Saturday evening: 5:30 p.m. Sunday 8:30 a.m. (Spanish), 11 a.m. (English) 5 p.m. (English)
OFFICE HOURS Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Southern Hills Church of Christ 3740 FM 967, Buda EPISCOPAL 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
CATHOLIC Santa Cruz Catholic Church 1100 Main Street, Buda
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facilities as necessary. The public is encouraged to follow the department’s social media accounts and monitor its website for the most up to date information.
The Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) will temporarily suspend inmate fees for health care services related to COVID-19. While incarcerated Texans housed within TDCJ facilities are never denied access to health care due to an inability to pay, this temporary waiver will encourage timely reporting of COVID-19 symptoms so that offenders are given the treatment they need. "As we work to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, we are committed to protecting the health of individuals in state custody and the dedicated state employees working at TDCJ facilities," said Governor Greg Abbott, who ordered the waivers. "Waiving health care fees for offenders housed in TDCJ facilities will ensure that inmates experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19 receive immediate medical attention. This suspension will protect the health of both inmates and TDCJ staff, and is a crucial tool in our efforts to mitigate any potential spread of COVID-19 in closely confined populations."
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the license and boat registration counter at TPWD’s Austin headquarters, closed to public visitation effective March 19. Texans needing to purchase hunting and fishing licenses, boat and motor owner transfers, and boat registration renewals are encouraged to visit tpwd.texas.gov or call the department at 512-3894800. These changes will remain in effect for the foreseeable future. TPWD will continue to monitor the evolving health situation with local and state officials and will adjust operations at department sites and
Health care fees waived for inmates
METHODIST Buda United Methodist Church San Marcos & Elm St., Buda Kyle United Methodist Church Sledge & Lockhart St., Kyle Journey United Methodist 4301 Benner Rd, Kyle, Tx St. Paul’s United Methodist Church 7206 Creedmoor Rd., Creedmoor
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Vertical Chapel 5700 Dacy Lane (McCormick M.S.), Buda A Fountain of Life Church 302 Millenium Dr. Kyle
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Por Tu Gracia Fellowship 701 Roland Lane, Kyle Trinity United Chuch of Niederwald 13700 Camino Real, Hwy. 21, Niederwald PENTECOSTAL Mision de Casa de Oracion S. Hwy. 81, Kyle New Life Sanctuary Kyle Science Hall Elementary 1510 Bebee Rd. PRESBYTERIAN
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
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
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8:30 a.m. Traditional service 9:45 a.m. Contemporary service 11:00 a.m. Blended service Adult, teen, children’s classes • Children’s worship Professionally-staffed nursery & pre-school
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Wednesday Bible Study/Youth Activities...6:00 p.m. AWANA’s (Wednesday)..........................6:00 p.m.
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Page 8
UIL extends activity suspension to May 4 STAFF REPORT
May 4 will now be the earliest high school games and contests could resume after the UIL broadened the timeline due to the Coronavirus.
The extension comes on the heels of actions An already altered athtaken at the local and state letic, academic and music level to curb the spread competition calendar will of COVID-19, also known now get even shorter after as the novel Coronavirus. UIL officials on March 19 On March 19, Texas Gov. extended the suspension Greg Abbott ordered all of its sanctioned activities. bars and restaurants in the May 4 will now be state to close temporarily the earliest high school until April 3, allowing for games and contests could take-out food only. That resume after the UIL order also called for the broadened the timeline closure of schools and of its suspension due to gyms across the state until the COVID-19 outbreak. April 3 as well. is working “diligently on Previously, the UIL had Locally, the cities contingency plans” to tabbed March 29 as the of Kyle, Buda and San conduct state championtimeline for activities to Marcos, as well as Hays resume. Currently, all ath- ships in activities that have County, have issued diletic, music and academic so far been suspended. saster declarations within Per UIL officials, mem- the past week as a result activities are suspended, ber schools will receive “a of the COVID-19 crisis. including all practices. “While the immediate reasonable acclimatization Kyle officials have banned future is unclear, we are period” for rehearsals and gatherings of 10 or more committed to providing practices to occur. Howev- people until April 5, while er, the UIL did not provide a similar measure in San these much-desired activities to all students specifics on the acclima- Marcos is in effect until tion period at this time. and will prepare for all April 3. Hays County leadIn addition, UIL offioutcomes, including exers are banning gathertended school closures,” cials said all decisions are ings of 10 or more people subject to change and Breithaupt said. until May 14. will be consistent with In a statement, UIL Currently, seven people Executive Director Charles advice from local, state in Hays County have testand federal officials. Breithaupt said the UIL ed positive for COVID-19.
Stuck in time
Coaches cope with COVID-19 BY MOSES LEOS III
The writing was already on the wall by the time Sean Dickson told his Lehman Lady Lobos March 13 their miraculous dream season was being put on hold. Most of the players knew professional and collegiate sports had been postponed due to the COVID-19 outbreak. Once they saw the UIL boys state tournament go by the wayside March 12, Dickson said the Lady Lobos knew they were next. “I’m disappointed for the girls right now. They accomplished so much,” Dickson said. “It being postponed, it’s odd.” For Dickson, the Lady Lobos and many other programs across Texas, the waiting game begins as they hope the UIL resumes play March 30. While most coaches are optimistic, they also realize the seriousness of the situation could mean the end of the 2020 sports schedule. While the move to suspend activities was “painful” for many of her athletes, Dripping Springs High head track and field coach Marisa Tuzzi also knew it was the right decision from a public safety standpoint. Even so, offering words of encouragement and moral support to students is one of Tuzzi’s main priorities during the time off. During times of crisis, Tuzzi said there’s a tendency to back away from talking about the impact of an event on the sports world. However, Tuzzi understands the fallout from COVID-19 affects athletes across the state on many levels, especially those who are juniors and seniors. “I think it’s wrong to ignore that these kids, families and adults are going through the emotions of that loss (of sports),” Tuzzi said. “We have to realize it has a huge impact on our kids.” An additional challenge for coaches, especially those who were in-season as of the stoppage, is trying to keep athletes prepared for play should activities resume. It’s a task made more strenuous as the UIL suspended practices until at least March 30. In addition, many local area governments and entities have banned gatherings of 10 or more people until May. Those caveats have led coaches to find creative outlets to keep athletes in
News-Dispatch • March 25, 2020
SPORTS
Suspended in time
As of the UIL’s March 13 suspension of activities across the state, 21 area varsity level teams now find their 2020 seasons in limbo. At the earliest, the UIL could resume play by March 30 at the earliest. Below are the teams that are still playing as of Tuesday.
GIRLS SOCCER
Lehman Lobos (still in season), 13-2-3 Dripping Springs Tigers 21-1, 14-0
BOYS SOCCER
Dripping Springs Tigers 22-3, 14-0
BASEBALL
Hays Rebels 6-7, 1-1 Lehman Lobos 9-5, 0-2 Dripping Springs Tigers 6-8 Wimberley Texans 8-5
SOFTBALL
Lehman Lobos 5-4, 3-0 Hays Rebels 9-5, 2-2 Dripping Springs Tigers 13-6, 2-0 Wimberley Texans 4-9-1
The All Hays Free Press/ News-Dispatch football team Numbers never lie in sports but they sometimes don’t tell the whole story. Yes, the stat line for Wimberley Texan senior quarterback Cooper McCollum is as impressive as one will find among any elite signal caller. More than 3,700 yards passing, close to 700 yards rushing and 63 total touchdowns (the fourth most in the entire state) made McCollum one of the more dangerous offensive threats in Texas. However, attributes not tallied in a stat column,
such as leadership skills, perseverance and grit, were traits McCollum consistently displayed Wimberley throughquarterback out WimCooper McCullom berley’s dream run was chosen as the 2020 to AT&T Most ValuStadium able Player and the 4A, Division II state title game. Without those, it’s
hard to imagine Wimberley making a similar run as it had this past season. That’s why we at the Hays Free Press and News-Dispatch are proud to name McCollum as our 2019-20 Most Valuable Player. Below you will find our list of first and second team honorees to our list. While not every player who hit the field is on here, we at Barton Publications recognizes the hard work put in by the hundreds of football players across the county this season.
FIRST TEAM OFFENSE
SECOND TEAM OFFENSE
SECOND TEAM DEFENSE
Quarterback Preston Alford, Dripping Springs
Quarterback Durand Hill, Hays
Defensive Line Carson Minnix, Wimberley Damon Allen, Lehman Nick Romero, Hays Ethan Lancaster, Wimberley
Running Back Xavier Green, Hays Moses Wray, Wimberley Wide Receiver/Tight End Cameron O’Banan, Dripping Springs Christian Marshall, Wimberley Jaxson Watts, Wimberley Offensive Line Gilbert Partida, Lehman Jack Masters, Dripping Springs Jason Iwabuchi, Hays Collin Kinkaid, Wimberley Zach Starr, Wimberley
Running Back Curtis Cox, Dripping Springs Keyshaun Williams, Lehman Wide Receiver/Tight End Alex Harkey, Hays Logan Neef, Dripping Springs Juan Olmedo, Wimberley Offensive Line Kevin Kelley, Dripping Springs Cameron Coburn, Wimberley Josh Gruell, Hays Ben Chapa, Hays Adam Ortiz, Lehman
Linebacker Hunter Northrup, Dripping Springs Zach Hobert, Hays Robert Vasquez, Lehman Defensive Back Keon Bailey, Lehman Michael Boudin, Hays Christian Marshall, Wimberley Tanner Johnson, Lehman
FIRST TEAM DEFENSE Defensive Line Jadon Potts, Wimberley Brock Bolinger, Dripping Springs Coleman Johnson, Hays Colby Collins, Dripping Springs Linebacker Jacob Joy, Dripping Springs Cole Schroeder, Wimberley McCaleb Biaslesewski, Hays Defensive Back Colby Wiegman, Wimberley Garrett Betts, Dripping Springs Scotty Crosby, Dripping Springs Michael Boudin, Hays
TRACK AND FIELD
Hays Rebels boys and girls Lehman Lobos boys and girls Dripping Springs boys and girls Wimberley Texans boys and girls Johnson Jaguars boys and girls
playing shape. James Howard, Hays High head baseball coach, said he’s encouraged his athletes to “get their swings in and keep throwing” at home as much as possible. Howard and his staff have also forwarded workouts players can try at home. Social media has also become a tool for coaches, too. Tweeting out words to keep players mentally focused is a way Howard has bridged the layoff. “We’re making sure we’re staying on top of our game. We don’t want to start over from scratch,” Howard said. Not all sports are created equal, however. Tuzzi said she’s avoided giving too much guidance in an effort to keep track athletes from organizing. Instead, she’s relied on the “beauty” of running, which allows students to simulate workouts on their own, wherever they may be. But for Dickson, the hiatus offers a chance for his players to get a much-needed rest after 18 straight district games without a bye week. He anticipated communicating with athletes following Spring Break to discuss individual workouts. “There’s a fine line because we (as coaches)
don’t want to encourage groups, but we don’t want players to get down and depressed right now,” Tuzzi said. In the back of many minds, however, is the possibility of a spring season that could be lost. Howard remained cautiously optimistic baseball and softball could resume play later this spring with schedule alterations. He so far hasn’t “crossed that bridge yet” or contemplated an early conclusion to the 2020 season. Tuzzi said many track coaches are still planning “in our heads” what a resumption of activities could mean for future meets. At the same time, losing an entire season would leave a “pretty sour taste” with athletes, especially seniors, Howard said. Dickson also held out hope for the start of the 2020 soccer postseason. Even in the event it doesn’t, Dickson said cancellation won’t diminish what his program had accomplished. “One thing that’s great is to be able to tell the girls what they’ve accomplished,” Dickson said. “With those accomplishments, it allows us to go into August hopefully and use that inspiration for a future season.”
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News-Dispatch • March 25, 2020
Page 9
Hays CISD seniors ride out anticlimactic year BY SAHAR CHMAIS
her classmates will get the opportunity. More than 600 stu“We’re definitely dents are scheduled to getting a graduation,” graduate from Hays High Nguyen said. “If it were School this year, but the something we had to do worry is if virtually, I they will be don’t think “We’re definitely it would able to walk with their work out; getting a friends, or it would graduation. If it be chaotic will they have to do were something because a virtual there are we had to graduation. so many There seniors [at do virtually, I has been Hays High don’t think it no word School] that seniors and in the would work in Hays country.” out; it would be CISD will Nguyen’s graduate chaotic because enthusiasm virtually, and school there are so but the idea spirit have of graduatkept her many seniors ing online thinking [at Hays high has been positively circulating during this school] and in on social uncharted the country.” media time, even nationthough she, –Ashley Nguyen, wide and like many graduating senior has some other stuseniors dents, have worried. Restrictions on lost opportunities along gatherings have only got- the outbreak. ten tighter and there is no Her flexible job has concrete date on when been put on hold for as restrictions will loosen. long as COVID-19 restricOne Hays High School tions are in place. With senior, Ashley Nguyen, the money she makes at doubts that they will her job, Nguyen planned do a virtual graduation. to save up to pay for Ultimately, the decision some university needs is not up to her, but she is and for entertainment. very hopeful that she and But Nguyen’s job is
not the only one taking a hit. One of her friends, a junior at Hays High School, was going to work for the YMCA as a lifeguard. After the YMCA closed its doors, Sarah Brager is temporarily out of work. The two experienced very similar issues with their work, but the virus has differently affected their schooling. Nguyen is about to graduate and has secured her place at a university. As a very active part of the school, vice president in the Student Council, Nguyen arranges many activities which are now cancelled. Every three years, Hays High School holds a program that teaches about the effects of drunk-driving. She can no longer arrange this
program which she felt passionate about. Seniors will also lose their senior trip; this year they planned to go to Six Flags with part of the day rented out just for their class. There are alternative options in mind, but that does not mean that they can pursue them, given the ongoing changes in restrictions. Brager’s case differs. As a junior, she is preparing to apply for universities with many exams and experiences that pave the path for acceptance, but now she is unsure what will happen. First, the March SAT exam was moved to April 4. Then, there was talk that if they cannot make it to that date, it might be moved online. Brager is
COVID-19 timeline December 2019: Novel coronavirus designated COVID -19 detected in Wuhan, China
March 5, 2020: WHO urges aggressive preparation and activation of emergency plans
Jan, 30, 2020: World Health Organization declares COVID -19 a public health emergency of international concern, advising countries to prepare for the containment, detection, isolation and case management, contract tracing and prevention of onward spread of the disease
March 11, 2020: WHO declares the virus a pandemic
March 6, 2020: Austin mayor Steve Adler cancels South by Southwest
March 14, 2020: First “presumptive’ case of COVID-19 announced in Hays County
March 13, 2020: Governor Greg Abbott declares a state of disaster for all Texas counties, says COVID -19 poses imminent threat of disaster
March 16, 2020: Gov. Greg Abbott suspends STAAR testing
March 15, 2020: Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra issues a disaster declaration, which was extended for 120 days by the Commissioners Court on March 16
March 16, 2020: President Donald Trump recommended that “People should avoid gatherings of more than 10” and “People should stay away from bars, restaurants, food courts, and to not travel if possible”
March 16, 2020: Second and third positive cases in Hays County announced. All are in self-quarantine
unsure how that would work and worries that this eschews her university plans. This year is also very crucial in education, not just for SAT exams. Brager worries that she will not get as much learning out of it as she needs for her senior year. Even if her courses are moved online, she does not think the quality of educational matches the quality of physical attendance. Her AP exams are in May and she is afraid the shift to online schooling will make her less successful. “I honestly think things are going to get worse before they get better,” Brager said. “I’m expecting the school year to be rocky. Our activities are probably going to be cancelled for UIL Journalism.” Cancelling the UIL will hurt Brager because she plans on majoring in journalism at Northwestern University, New York University or The University of Texas at Austin. In order to get accepted into these highly competitive schools, she needs to rack up experience and high grades. Both students feel disappointment in their prom. This year, they had rented a venue at Circuit
March 18, 2020: Gov. Greg Abbott orders May 2 municipal elections to be put on ballots for General Election on Nov. 3
March 18, 2020: COVID-19 case with link to Tobias Elementary announced. Person had been on campus March 11
of the Americas which will no longer occur. They may be able to do a prom at another venue, but at this point they are playing it by ear. Many students have already invested in $60 tickets and are unsure if they will still get a prom. For the time being, these two students are taking a different approach on handling the virus. Brager is practicing social distancing and has not implemented a quarantine, although this may change soon. Once a busy student, Nguyen now finds herself with too much time on her hands. She does not enjoy the feeling but she does feel like she gets more time than she has had in a long time to spend with her family members. Nguyen began her quarantine and has been trying to find entertainment with her younger siblings by making comedic log videos which dramatize their quarantine experience. She even found herself watching videos of fish giving birth. Although these students’ near-future is uncertain and they face different challenges, they are doing what they can to stay safe, entertained and calm.
March 20, 2020: Buda City Council meets in emergency session to adopt a local state of disaster with restrictions that mirror those imposed by the state and county
March 19, 2020: County Judge Ruben Becerra issues order that closed bars, restaurants, gyms and day cares and limits gatherings to 10 individuals
March 20, 2020: Gov. Greg Abbott postpones primary runoff elections that had been scheduled for May to July 14
March 20,2020: County announces six COVID -19 cases: one in Buda, one in Dripping Springs, two in Kyle, one in San Marcos and one with an Austin address.
March 22, 2020: Seventh COVID-19 case confirmed in Hays County. Person was on campus of San Marcos High School on March 12
March 4, 1918: Private Albert Gitchell was admitted into the infirmary in Fort Riley, Kansas with a 103 degree temperature due to the Spanish Flu. Thereafter, military personnel rolled into the infirmary in greater and greater numbers. The men were training to fight in France. Many troops were shipped off to Europe where the flu ragaged the war-torn continent. The Spanish Flu claimed about 100 millions lives out of the 500 million that contracted the virus.
Police Blotter The following is a tally of all calls made to law enforcement within Hays County between March 13th and March 19th , 2020.
Below is a sample of events reported by law enforcement from March 13th through
Abduction/Kidnapping............................................ 1 Endanger/Abandon................................................. 2 Civil Matter............................................................. 15 Deliver Message...................................................... 2 Information............................................................. 14 Compliance Check.................................................. 8 Property- Lost/Found/Imp...................................... 4 Alarm Business...................................................... 46 Alarm Residential.................................................. 21 Animal Calls........................................................... 80 Field Euthanaisa...................................................... 1 Loose Livestock.................................................... 20 Assault – Aggravated.............................................. 3 Assault..................................................................... 7 Sexual Assault......................................................... 1 Assist EMS............................................................... 7 Assist Fire Dept....................................................... 4 Assist Outside Agency............................................ 8 Burglary Habitation................................................. 2 Burglary Building..................................................... 4 Burglary Vehicle....................................................... 3 Criminal Mischief..................................................... 5 Reckless Damage.................................................... 1 Illegal Dumping........................................................ 2 Attended Death....................................................... 3 Death Investigation................................................. 2 Disturbance Noise................................................. 20 Disturbance Physical Fight................................... 23 Disturbance Verbal................................................ 24 Child Custody.......................................................... 5 Narcotics/Information............................................. 1 Alchohol Violation.................................................... 1 Public Intoxication................................................... 1 MIP – Tobacco......................................................... 1 Fraud........................................................................ 7 Indecency w Child................................................... 1 Credit/Debit Abuse.................................................. 2 Harassment.............................................................. 7 Threat....................................................................... 9 Mental Health Follow Up......................................... 1 Mental Health Invest............................................... 4 Mental Health Transport.......................................... 3 Canine Search......................................................... 1 Canine Training........................................................ 2 Drone Deployment.................................................. 2 Missing Person........................................................ 5
may not necessarily be where the event occured.
Viol City Ordinance.................................................. 1 Runaway.................................................................. 3 Public Assist.......................................................... 20 Community Contact.............................................. 44 Disabled Vehicle.................................................... 20 Foot Patrol............................................................. 10 Close Patrol......................................................... 323 Parental Discipline................................................... 2 Flagged Down......................................................... 2 Unsecured/Open Building....................................... 1 Welfare Concern.................................................... 34 Suicidal Person........................................................ 8 Investigation............................................................ 1 Supplement........................................................... 65 Suspicious Circumstances................................... 16 Suspicious Person................................................. 26 Suspicious Vehicle................................................ 36 Wanted Person...................................................... 10 Identity Theft............................................................ 2 Theft....................................................................... 20 Vehicle Theft............................................................ 5 Recovered Stolen Vehicle....................................... 3 Accident Minor...................................................... 21 Accident Hit and Run............................................ 10 Accident Major/Injury............................................ 11 Accident Fleet.......................................................... 1 Accident Unknown.................................................. 1 Abandoned/Stored Vehicle..................................... 7 Traffic Control/Direction.......................................... 1 Directed/Area Enforcement.................................. 22 Traffic Hazard......................................................... 23 Attempt to Locate................................................. 62 Parking Enforcement............................................. 10 Pedestrian Stop....................................................... 1 Traffic Stop........................................................... 210 Trespassing/Unwanted......................................... 13 911 Abandoned/Open......................................... 204 911 Misdial............................................................... 1 911 Hangup............................................................. 1 Deadly Conduct....................................................... 2 Discharge Firearm................................................. 10 Private Tow/Repo.................................................. 15 Motor Vehicle Collision............................................ 1
March 19th, 2020. The location is where the event was reported or responded to and Agency BPD HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO BPD HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO BPD HCSO HCSO HCSO BPD HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO BPD BPD HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO HCSO
Activity Date Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/13/2020 Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/13/2020 Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/13/2020 Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/14/2020 Accident - Major/Injury 03/13/2020 Accident - Major/Injury 03/13/2020 Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/14/2020 Disturbance - Phys/Fight Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/14/2020 Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/15/2020 Assault - Aggravated 03/16/2020 Sexual Assault 03/15/2020 Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/15/2020 Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/15/2020 Accident - Major/Injury 03/15/2020 Assault 03/16/2020 Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/16/2020 Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/16/2020 Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/16/2020 Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/16/2020 Accident - Major/Injury 03/16/2020 Accident - Major/Injury 03/16/2020 Accident - Major/Injury 03/17/2020 Assault 03/17/2020 Assault 03/17/2020 Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/17/2020 Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/17/2020 Accident - Major/Injury 03/17/2020 Accident - Major/Injury 03/17/2020 Accident - Major/Injury 03/17/2020 Assault - Aggravated 03/18/2020 Assault - Aggravated 03/18/2020 Assault 03/18/2020 Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/18/2020 Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/18/2020 Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/18/2020 Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/18/2020 Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/19/2020 Accident - Major/Injury 03/18/2020 Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/19/2020 Disturbance - Phys/Fight 03/19/2020 Accident - Major/Injury 03/19/2020
Time Location 18:18:58 Old San Antonio Rd Buda Walmart Of Buda 9:14:32 Robert S Light Blvd Trails At Buda Ranch Apts 11:31:52 Dacy Ln Kyle 1:48:19 Montague Dr Kyle 6:39:23 Redwood Rd San Marcos 14:27:49 W Us 290/Sawyer Ranch Rd Dripping Springs 10:54:08 IH 35 FR Buda Mcdonalds Of Buda 03/14/2020 12:28:00 Shadow Creek Blvd Buda 21:33:07 Dragon Ridge Rd Buda 1:15:17 Wildwood Hills Ln Austin 0:13:34 Windmill Way Buda 16:27:18 Santa Fe Run Kyle 14:22:41 Pearl Way Buda 22:07:38 Goforth Rd Kyle 21:02:18 Trautwein Rd Austin 12:31:23 S Old Bastrop Hwy San Marcos Dollar General 19:28:18 Cabelas Dr Buda Silverado Crossing Apartments 9:43:34 Leisurewoods Dr Buda 19:23:12 Great Oaks Dr San Marcos 22:18:43 Plant Lady Ln Dripping Springs 15:41:06 Fm 2001/Royston Rd Buda 19:31:54 Camino Real Kyle 3:50:53 RR 3237/Winters Mill Pkwy Wimberley 8:08:17 RR 1826 Driftwood Camp Ben Mccullough 23:39:47 Quail Ridge Dr Kyle 13:13:26 Nautical Loop Kyle 20:31:52 Fire Cracker Dr Buda Springs At Sunfield 6:52:38 EXIT 220 NB Buda EXIT 220 NB 7:48:38 Cabelas Dr/Ih 35 Fr Buda 16:42:19 Scudder Ln/Rr 12 Wimberley 14:28:51 Greenfield Rd Kyle 18:08:35 High Rd Kyle Poco Loco/Exxon 17:12:56 Camino Real Kyle 18:32:45 Shale Cir Buda 18:38:51 Country Folks Ln Buda 21:12:36 Woodrose San Marcos 23:18:22 Willis Way San Marcos 2:51:09 Goforth Rd Kyle 17:04:01 Martin Rd Dripping Springs 14:13:51 Robert S Light Blvd Trails At Buda Ranch Apts 15:12:24 E Us 290 Dripping Springs Gateway Estates 6:08:02 S Fm 1626/Old Black Colony Rd Buda
Page 10
News-Dispatch • March 25, 2020
Feeling helpless? Help save a life in your spare time BY CAMELIA JUAREZ
if you can, donate blood and register to find an organ donor match.
Although COVID-19 patients don’t need blood to help them get better, a lot of people need blood and organ transplants to save their lives. It has become difficult for blood donation stations to keep their reserves full if only 10 people are allowed to donate at a time. If you’re not sick and
match. Donors will be screened for any COVID-19 exposure. If you are between the ages of 18 and 44, patients especially need you. Research shows that cells from younger donors lead to more successful transplants. Doctors request donors in the 18-44 age group 86 percent of the time. At donor registry drives,
DONATE BONE MARROW Registering from home to help someone needing an organ is easy. All you have to do is go online to bethematch.org to register, order a kit for your sample, then mail the kit back with your sample and hope to be someone’s
the focus is on adding registry members most likely to donate. Donors receive a $100 tax-deductible payment to cover the cost. If you are a biracial person, consider donating because patients have less than a 14 percent chance of finding a match. A four-time cancer survivor Lizzie Tennyson is in need of a bone marrow transplant, as she enters her 5th round of cancer at age
21. It’s extremely difficult for her to find a match as a biracial woman.
DONATE BLOOD Blood donation centers request advance appointments, as they are no longer taking walk-ins to reduce the number of people within a space. After making an appointment, the center staff will check your tem-
perature and if the donor is below 100 degrees, the staff will ask a series of COVID-19 questions. They will ask if you have a shortness of breath, consistent cough, flu-like symptoms not related to allergies, sore throat or a fever in the last 24 hours. If you answer yes to any of those questions, you will be turned away.
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SEPTIC PUMPING • CLEANING REPAIRS • COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL
• Boot Experts • Purse Repair • Belt Repair • Luggage Repair • Shoe Care Products
SELLMAN ENTERPRISES, INC.
AustinShoeHospital.com
Serving the Hays Metro area, including Travis, Blanco, Bastrop, Williamson & surrounding counties.
locations in 1010Locations in Central Central Texas Texas including: including:
www.SellmanSepticServices.com
BUDA 17020 I-H 35 (512) 523-8387 KyleAutoShop.com
Drippings Springs
21681 IH-35 11740 Manchaca Rd. 3990 Hwy 290
Offering competitive pricing and superior service in the Manchaca, Buda, and Kyle area since 2010
• Interior/Exterior Painting • Powerwashing • Tape & Float Texture • Popcorn Ceilings John Mendoza • Water Damage • Siding 512-214-5952 • Soffit 20 Years Experience • Facial References Available • Windows Free Estimates
Interior Exterior Painting Rot-wood Replacement Sheet Rock Repairs Wallpaper Removal Wall Texture Pressure Wash
3 Great Locations!
WHO DOES YOUR LANDSCAPING/LAWN?
Residential & Commercial Services
699 Painting and More
“People don't always remember your name, but they will never forget how you made them feel.”
Lawn Care
John’s Paint, Drywall & Carpentry
Painting
• Full Service Auto Repair • All Years, Makes and Models • ASE Certified • Service with a Smile
3/4 mi. north of Dairy Queen
107 S. Main St., Ste. A • Kyle, TX
Rick-Rob Trucking 512- 858-7952 www.rick-rob.com
Auto Repair
Commercial & Residential
1911 Ben White and Manchaca Rd • 512-440-8788 Rockand Ave.Nutty RoundBrown Rock Rd - 512-244-9124 12119316 WRound Hwy 290 • 512-827-3398 306WSouth Park 6781 HwyBell 290Cedar in Oak Hill- •512-219-8387 512-288-6386
8211 Burnet Rd. Austin - 512-453-1961
(512)
Computer Help
Now Open in Kyle
282-3889
COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL
Tree Service
Lees Trees
38 years experience in the hill country Firewood • Pruning • Removal • Chipping Planting • Cedar Posts • Bulk Mulch
Free Assessments & Estimates • Insured MARCUS LEES (512) 858-4018 leestreestexas@gmail.com
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 • March 25, 2020
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.
Public Notices
NOW HIRING: Safety-Aware Caregiver Needed. $9.20/hr. Call (No text) 512-697-8734
TEXAS DISPOSAL SYSTEMS
TDS IS NOW HIRING! Find your career with us.
Page 11
Opportunities Include: Paralegal, Welder, CDL Drivers, Temporary Special Event Workers, Mechanics, and more.
Visit our website www.texasdisposal.com/careers to view and apply! For more information call 512-329-1778
NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO SUBDIVIDE An application has been filed with HAYS COUNTY to subdivide 11.153 acres of property located at along Robert S. Light Blvd, Buda, TX 78610. Information regarding the application may be obtained from Hays County Development Services (512) 393-2150. Tracking number: SUB-1216.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Pursuant to Chapter 59 of the Texas Property Code, TJO 10 X 10 Management, Ltd Managing properties listed below will hold a public auction of property being sold to satisfy a landlord’s lien. The sale will begin on or about the time indicated at www.selfstorageauction. com. Property will be sold to highest bidder for cash. Deposit for removal and cleanup may be temporarily required. Seller reserves the right to reject any bid and to withdraw property from sale. Property may be sold by the space. Property being sold includes contents in spaces of following tenants, with brief description of contents in each space. Wednesday, April 8, 2020 12:00 pm at Kyle Premiere Storage 19580 IH 35, Kyle, TX 78640 www.SelfStorageAuction. com Devon Brown: misc. items. Reyna Rodriguez misc. items. Sean Rowley: misc. items.
Notice for Publication Docket No. 50324
NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO OBTAIN A CERTIFICATE OF CONVENIENCE AND NECESSITY TO PROVIDE SEWER UTILITY SERVICE IN HAYS AND CALDWELL COUNTIES, TEXAS
County Line SUD has filed an application with the Public Utility Commission of Texas to obtain a Certificate of Convenience and Necessity (CCN) for the provision of retail sewer utility service in Hays and Caldwell Counties. The requested area is located approximately 5 miles east of downtown Kyle, TX, and is generally bounded on the north by Goforth Rd and Heidenreich Ln; on the east by Rhode Rd and FM 2001; on the south by Misty Ln and Jolly Rd; and on the west by FM 1966. The requested area includes approximately 17,942 total acres and 2 current customers. A copy of the map showing the requested area is available at: County Line SUD Office Persons who wish to intervene in the proceeding or comment upon action sought should contact the Public Utility Commission, P.0. Box 13326, Austin, Texas 78711-3326, or call the Public Utility Commission at (512) 936-7120 or (888) 782-8477. Hearing- and speech-impaired individuals with text telephones (TTY) may contact the commission at (512) 936-7136. The deadline for intervention in the proceeding is (30 days from the mailing or publication of notice, whichever occurs later, unless otherwise provided by the presiding officer). You must send a letter requesting intervention to the commission which is received by that date. If a valid public hearing is requested, the Commission will forward the application to the State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH) for a hearing. If no settlement is reached and an evidentiary hearing is held, SOAH will submit a recommendation to the Commission for a final decision. An evidentiary hearing is a legal proceeding similar to a civil trial in state district court. A landowner with a tract of land at least 25 acres or more, that is partially or wholly located within the requested area, may file a written request with the Commission to be excluded from the requested area (“opt out”) within (30) days from the date that notice was provided by the Utility. All opt out requests must include a large scale map and a metes and bounds description of the landowner's tract of land. Persons who wish to request this option should file the required documents with the: Public Utility Commission of Texas Central Records 1701 N. Congress, P. 0. Box 13326 Austin, TX 78711-3326 In addition, the landowner must also send a copy of the opt out request to the Utility. Staff may request additional information regarding your request. Si desea información en español, puede llamar al 1-888-782-8477.
BANKRUPTCY SALE BID DEADLINE: MAY 6
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NEWS
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News-Dispatch • March 25, 2020
Hays County Plan
Combined Papers
Continued from pg. 1
in PPE. It is real, we do need it,” Becerra said. “The stories you have been hearing are absolutely real.” He also warned that, though the county has only seen seven confirmed cases, that number will shoot up once testing becomes available, possibly into the hundreds. Testing will also allow those who have the virus but don’t know it because they have no symptoms to isolate themselves so they don’t infect others who are more vulnerable. “Our goal is not to respond but to stay ahead,” he said, adding that the focus needs to be on the coming weeks and months. “If we are thinking about today, we have failed. “My goal is to have enough tests so that if
Continued from pg. 1
you are truly positive you can shelter in place,” he continued. “Conservatively,” he said, “fifty percent of people could be walking around testing positive.” Pct. 2 Commissioner Mark Jones implored private physicians to notify the county Health Department when they receive a positive test. “They need to let us know because when they (first responders) get called to those addresses (that) they know to arrive with PPE. We won’t let the public know, but first responders need to know before they go in.” Becerra added justices of the peace to people who should know beforehand if they are going to an address where someone is in self quarantine.
Likewise, he said, authorities should know about negative tests to get a feel for what percentage of the population may be infected. “If you’ve tested 50 people and five are positive we need to know. If none are positive we need to know.” Becerra praised county employees and elected officials for their actions during the crisis, specifically mentioning Kyle Mayor Travis Mitchell and Woodcreek Mayor Gloria Whitehead. “Kyle’s mayor is impressive in every front. He is running in boldly but well informed. He is excessively impressive to me.” Whitehead has asked Woodcreek residents to voluntarily shelter in place. “Woodcreek is one of the
Corona Count: 9th case Continued from pg. 1
letters have been sent to parents of Carpenter Hill students, but that “We do not believe anyone who has actually tested positive for coronavirus had been on campus prior to spring break or within the virus incubation period of 14 days.” The letters, he
said, were sent out of an “abundance of caution.” The county’s health department has said the risk of transmission is low for those on the Carpenter Hill campus, but they recommend that all staff and students monitor themselves for symptoms
until Friday, March 27. The Carpenter Hill campus has been closed, the district said. For the latest news about COVID-19 and reducing its spread, visit haysinformed.com. You can also call the hotline at 512-393-5525.
older communities in the county and very vulnerable right now,” Pct. 3 Commissioner Lon Shell said. Commissioners also discussed drive-through testing expected to be coming to Hays County. Those tests will initially be for first responders, Jones noted, and after that, only for people whose doctor believes it is necessary. Absent from the courtroom was Pct. 4 Commissioners Walt Smith. He participated by telephone (and credited the county’s IT Coordinator Jeff McGill for the opportunity) and later explained that he was staying at home out of an “abundance of caution” because of a cancer diagnoses years ago that weakened his immune system.
For all the latest news in Hays County, visit one of our websites.
HaysFreePress.com
www.
www.HaysNewsDispatch.com
Access your account 24/7 through our digital services from the comfort of your home.
EFFECTIVE THURSDAY, MARCH 19, 2020 LOBBIES WILL BE CLOSED AT OUR KYLE AND NEW BRAUNFELS, TEXAS BRANCHES
Continued from pg. 1
Sundays. Out of 365 days, about 156 are used and that is where the impact lies. They cannot replace or extend the days of the year, they can only work with what the calendar allows. Saddle Creek Weddings will give the couples who decided to reschedule a one-year period. Not all venues are using the same protocols. Some have not allowed rescheduling or refunds and some have given couples an extension until the end of 2020, Schreiber said. For the time being, Saddle Creek Weddings is not forcing a reschedule unless government agen-
tionsinc.com. If there are multiple readers in one home, you can send two email addresses. For our readers’ cooperation, we will extend subscription for two months to those who choose an emailed edition. When this virus has run its course, we will gladly switch you back to a newspaper delivered through the mail.
ALWAYS BY YOUR SIDE 99 YEARS STRONG
Weddings Postponed: Victims of COVID U.S. and had their hands tied by the travel bans. Last week, a large number of clients had to change their dates due to travel restrictions; since early last week, the calls have not stopped. Weddings at Prospect House will be rescheduled post-May. Business is not completely lost, even though the majority of couples have postponed their wedding, but this is still a financial hit, explained Brad Schreiber, president and managing partner of Saddle Creek Weddings. These venues sell one product; weddings, with the busiest times on Fridays, Saturdays and
This week’s edition will be printed as well as made available online; however, we cannot say at this time how long a print edition will still be possible. We are asking anyone with the ability to receive the newspaper via email (with flip book and scanned inserts) to send us an email with your name and address on it to: sales@bartonpublica-
cies begin implementing rules on the numbers of those allowed to gather in the same place. Schreiber said he witnessed a couple taking charge by only allowing 50 guests at their wedding. He said these decisions should be left up to the couple. Like most industries, these venues are reacting and altering their work as the news comes. The Covid-19 outbreak is still new ground and these restrictions and changes are ongoing. “We don’t know what the impact is going to be,” Schreiber said. “So we just have to do it day-by-day and take valid information from valid sources.”
ALL DIGITAL BANKING SERVICES, ATMS (24 HOURS), AND DRIVE THRUS REMAIN OPEN CUSTOMERS WHO NEED AN APPOINTMENT SHOULD CALL 1-800-342-0679
Photographer’s View: Plans changing Continued from pg. 1
once the pandemic began to be felt in Central Texas, much of the future of the wedding industry is uncertain. Given that Dripping Springs is the “Wedding Capital of Texas,” a lot of big celebrations have been put on hold along with a lot of paychecks. “I’m trying to work with my clients because it’s good business,” Hofeldt said. Still, having to postpone means setting new dates when everyone will be available. “It’s going to be very difficult and trying on these brides.” In addition to photography, weddings involve caterers, musicians and more. When the couple has hired a wedding coordinator, that person is the primary go-between to assure the bride’s big day wishes are met. If there’s no wedding coordinator, that role often falls to the photographer and his or her team. For example, for the March 21 wedding, Hofeldt had lined up a team of four, including one drone operator.
Now none of them have the work. “Ultimately, it’s still wages lost for me,” as well as others, she said. “Those gathering restrictions really came down really hard and really fast. The wedding industry, wedding venues are all scrambling. Nobody wants to break the law and everyone wants to be safe but no one knows how overblown or under blown it is.” She’s also had to stand up for the COVID-19-imposed laws and against the “we’re healthy and can have our wedding” mentality that some still cling to. Hofeldt has another big wedding booked in April, though whether it will happen or not is anyone’s guess. “It’s really hard to see what’s going on. Too much is happening, it’s just crumbling down,” she said. “It’s not going to be over overnight. Obviously they’re expecting it to get worse before it gets better, and when it gets better it will get slowly better.”
FROM THIS...
Like all Texans, Hofeldt is used to having weather change plans, but this is different. “It’s not the end of the world but it’s pretty bad. It’s not like ‘oh look, there’s a tornado coming.’ It’s a beautiful day out … you can’t see anything ominous.” The virus has delivered a double whammy to the family. Hofeldt’s husband Brian Hofeldt is the founder and front man of The Derailers, who have seen their gigs evaporate. Despite it all, she’s looking on the bright side. “As unfortunate as I am to work in the service sector, for the most part my job is at home” where son Van, who attends Johnson High School, was as well. “It’s nice to have this time at home with him,” she said, and make creative use of the downtime. For example, one recent night he camped out in the back yard “with a tent and campfire.” “We’re doing OK and it will be fine. You just have to plan for these things.”
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