Dec. 14, 2016 Hays Free Press

DECEMBER 14, 2016 VFW

STUNNED

Veterans look to create new Buda VFW post.

Rebel girls basketball stuns state-ranked Pflugerville.

– Page 1C

– Page 1B

Hays Free Press ©Barton Publications, Inc.

Vol. 120 • No. 38

HaysFreePress.com

Serving Buda, Kyle and Northeast Hays County, TX • 75¢

Urbanovsky wins Buda council runoff

BY SAMANTHA SMITH

news@haysfreepress.com

It was an early night for Buda City Council Place 1 candidate Lee Urbanovsky who claimed his place on the dais after opponent John Hatch conceded Tuesday’s runoff election 15 minutes after the polls closed.

Urbanovsky, a political newcomer, won the Place 1 seat by taking roughly 61 percent of the 1,240 total votes. Hatch, who fell by a 272-vote margin, claimed roughly 39 percent of the vote.

Urbanovsky’s win was shouldered by a substantial 589-316 lead he built after early voting results were released.

According to Hays County Election records, roughly 15 percent of the 8,143 registered voters participated in Buda’s

BUDA RUNOFF, 2A

BY MOSES LEOS III

news@haysfreepress.com

Lee Urbanovsky

John Hatch 484 total votes (316 early voting) 39.03%

Woman killed in accident on FM 2001

BY SAMANTHA SMITH

news@haysfreepress.com

One woman was killed after a two-vehicle collision along FM 2001 in Buda last week.

Frances Campbell, 58, was identified as the victim in the accident that occurred on FM 2001 between Satterwhite Road and Hillside Terrace around 9:30 p.m. Dec. 7.

A Texas Department of Public Safety spokes-

person said Campbell was transported to a local hospital via StarFlight for serious injuries, but was later pronounced deceased at 11:44 p.m.

The driver of the second vehicle involved in the accident was identified as Rogelio Garduno, 35. It is unknown at this time if Garduno suffered injuries in the accident.

DPS is investigating the accident. They believe alcohol may have been involved.

Kyle hones contract for city manager

Compensation to include house

BY MOSES LEOS III

news@haysfreepress.com

PHOTO BY KIM HILSENBECK

A Kyle city worker inspects a large 7-to-8 foot hole that developed at a low water crossing on Lehman Road last week. City crews continue to fix the problem, which has caused the city to close Lehman Road near Steeplechase Park.

COMING UP

Buda Trail of Lights

See the spectacles of the holiday season at this annual event at Historic Stagecoach Park Dec. 15-18. The trail is free and open from 6-10 p.m.

VODKA TOWN Deep Eddy, Buda finalize agreement.

– Page 1D

INDEX

LEHMAN HOLE, 4A

Lee Urbanovsky 756 total votes (589 early voting) 60.97%

runoff election.

Hatch congratulated Urbanovsky and said

Kyle scrambles to fix hole at Lehman water crossing Kyle city leaders continue their quest to fix a 7- to 8-foot cavity discovered at a low water crossing underneath Lehman Road near Steeplechase Park.

As a result of the problem, the city has temporarily closed the thoroughfare as road crews attempt to remedy the issue.

Leon Barba, Kyle city engineer, said in a statement the closure, located near Hallie Drive, was done as the structural integrity of the road at the low water crossing has been compromised.

Harper Wilder, Kyle public works director, said he, along with Barba and Street Division Manager Scott Egbert, are discussing “several possible options for fixing the road.”

The Kyle City Council last week approved up to $25,000 for emergency repairs, with city crews potentially returning to request more money if needed, Wilder said.

City Manager Scott Sellers said he has contacted Hays County officials for possible

Place 1 Seat Runoff Results

According to Hays County Election records, roughly 15 percent of the 8,143 registered voters participated in Buda’s runoff election.

Starlight Symphony Orchestra Celebrate the holidays with the Starlight Symphony Orchestra’s performance of “All I Really Need to Know I Learned from the Symphony - Warm Cookies & Cold Milk.” The orchestra will perform 7 p.m.

Dec. 16 and 17 at the Hays PAC and Dec. 18 at the Wimberley First Baptist Church.

Don’t miss this free community event.

News …………… 1-4A Opinions …………… 3A Sports …………… 1-2B Education ……… 3-4B Community …… 1-4C

The city of Kyle is looking to invest in its future – literally.

An eight-year extension and an executive level home that will be a city-owned asset are two provisions within a new contract for Kyle City Manager

Scott Sellers that was approved by the Kyle City Council this month.

Sellers’ draft contract, which is in the editing stage and has not been finalized by the city’s legal team, calls for a $20,363 base salary reduction on the first day of the 2018 fiscal year. That amount goes

KYLE MANAGER, 2A

Texans top poll for worst drivers

BY LOGAN MCCULLOUGH

news@haysfreepress.com

Congested roadways, mixed with bad driving habits, are reasons a recent study has deemed Texas drivers as some of the worst in the country.

According to an annual report from carinsurancecomparison. com, which analyzed nationwide driving habits, Texas, tied with

Best Bets ………… 4C Business ………… 1D Service Directory ..... 3D Classifieds ………...2, 4D Public Notices ……2, 4D

Louisiana as the states with the statistically worst drivers.

Although Texas has been named in the top five for worst drivers in all five years Car Insurance Comparison has conducted its annual report, this is the first time Texas has been ranked number one overall.

Drivers in Texas ranked

DRIVING, 2A

Page 2A

Hays Free Press The Hays Free Press (ISSN 1087-9323) 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

NEWS TIPS

If you think it’s news, we probably do too!

• Newsroom phone: 512-268-7862 • E-mail: news@haysfreepress. com • Mail: 113 W. Center Street, Kyle, TX 78640

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.

DEADLINES

• The deadline for display advertising and any contributed news copy in the Hays Free Press is 5 p.m. Friday the week prior to publication.

• The deadline for Letters to the Editor and classified word advertising in the Hays Free Press is noon Monday the week of publication, though we encourage readers and advertisers to observe the Friday deadline.

LETTERS GUIDELINES

We welcome locally written letters to the editor on timely topics of community interest.

We ask that you keep them to about 350 words in length and that you not indulge in personal attacks on private individuals. Letters may be edited for brevity and clarity. All letters should be signed by the author and include a daytime phone number where the author can be contacted for verification. Letter writers are limited to one letter per month. Letters can be emailed to csb@ haysfreepress.com.

HISTORY

Founded April 10, 1903,

by Thomas Fletcher Harwell as The Kyle News, with offices on the corner of Burleson and Miller streets in the town’s oldest remaining building. It merged into The Hays County Citizen in 1956. The paper consolidated with The Free Press in October, 1978. During its more than 100-year history the newspaper has maintained offices at more than a dozen locations in Kyle and Buda.

NEWS

Hays Free Press • December 14, 2016

Driving: Texas has worst drivers

Why are we the worst?

Continued from pg. 1A

third for drunk driving, ninth for speeding, ninth for fatalities rate per 100 million vehicle miles traveled and within the top 15 in other categories.

According to the NHTSA, traffic related fatalities have decreased by approximately 67 percent since 1975. However Texas transportation officials have said that at least one person has died on Texas roads every day for the past 16 years.

Distracted driving is now just as dangerous, if not worse, than drunken driving, Safeway Driving Vice President Ann Littman said.

One of the most common examples of distracted driving is cell phone use. However, Texas doesn’t have a law that forbids drivers from using their cell phones. Although some cities have implemented “Hands-free device only zones,” Littman

said these can also be a dangerous distraction.

“Driving is a cognitive task,” said Littman.

“Wherever your attention is, that’s what makes the difference.

If your attention is on a conversation you’re having, whether it’s on the phone or through a hands-free device, that’s going to take your focus off of the task of driving.”

When asked why Texas is consistently at the top of the worst drivers rankings, Littman said that one reason is the Texas’ consistently increasing population, particularly metropolitan areas, which make the roadways more congested and subsequently more dangerous.

“We actually teach for you to be able to keep a diamond space around your vehicle,” said Littman. “A diamond provides plenty of space in front of you, behind

you and both sides. So if there is anything in the roadway that forces you to make a defensive maneuver, it provides you with space and a way to be able to get around that.”

Littman said that it is important to change the way we as people view driving. She believes that driving throughout history has been a task that hasn’t necessarily been taken seriously, and urges drivers to recognize the realities of driving.

“The thing you have to remember is that every time you get the behind the wheel you’re getting behind the wheel of essentially a 3500 pound missile filled with rocket fuel,” said Littman. “And that’s a responsibility that we have to take seriously to not just protect ourselves and our passengers, but also those on the roadway around us.”

Kyle Manager: City to buy house

Bella is a 5-year-old female shepherd mix. She would love to go to a home where she could go for daily walks or runs. Although she loves to explore and have a good time while on a walk, she is a HUGE hugger and cuddler who enjoys scratches and pets.

in order to retain him despite the “optics” of how the deal could be viewed.

Webster said it was done after other communities were interested in hiring Sellers.

“We could have given him a salary increase to retain him,” Webster said. “Instead we’re compensating him in a way where he gets what he wants and the city ends up making a significant return on the investment we’re putting in.”

Webster added the appreciating value of the city-owned home was a smart investment and that funds accrued from the appreciating value would go back to taxpayers.

“This was the smartest decision to compensate him,” Webster said.

“The taxpayers of Kyle are only going to make money from this.”

But during the last Kyle City Council meeting on Dec. 6, council member Daphne Tenorio expressed concern over the length of Sellers’ new contract.

While she said Sellers has “done a good job” and she wanted to keep him on, Tenorio said she believed the contract exceeded her desires.

“This contract is difficult for me because of the length of it. It’s too long,” Tenorio said. “I’m binding the hands of future councils by doing so. That’s my biggest objection to this.”

“To me, it seemed like a good thing to do and lock him down for the long term. It’s going to help the city reach the potential it has,” Webster

Marmalade is a 6-month-old female medium hair orange tabby. They don’t make cats cuter than Marmalade. What’s more is her personality matches her appearance. Marmalade loves attention and pets so much! She will happily stick by your side and will do well with other cats too.

PAWS Shelter and Humane Society

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

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

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

sponsored by

Town & CounTry VeTerinary HospiTal Bill Selman, DVM • Kayley O’Toole, DVM • Devony Arrington, DVM.

Committed to your pet’s health since 1978.

6300 FM 1327 (East of I35 and Creedmoor) Austin, TX 78747

512-385-0486 • www.TownandCountryVetHospital.com

HOW TEXANS RANK ON DRIVING HABITS Drunk Driving Speeding Careless Driving Failure to obey traffic signals Fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles traveled

3rd worst 9th worst 14th 12th 9th worst

TEXANS’ BAD DRIVING HABITS BY THE NUMBERS Fatalities per 100 million miles traveled Drunk driving fatalities with blood alcohol content above .08 Speed related fatalities Percent of fatal crashes when seat belts weren’t used Percent of fatal crashes involving invalidly licensed drivers Percent of fatal crashes with traffic safety devices involved Pedestrians killed Cyclists killed

1.46 1,446 1,284 19.84% 19.38% 15.63% 476 50

Buda Runoff

Continued from pg. 1A

to payment of a home that Kyle City Manager Todd Webster said would be owned by the city.

The home, a 4,100-square foot unit located within the Cypress Forest subdivision, will cost up to $550,000.

According to the contract, the monetary value is equivalent to a $2,454 mortgage payment based on a 30year amortization based on 3.45 percent interest.

It reflects the “estimated amortized value of the housing the city expects to construct.”

Once notified the city owned housing is available, Sellers would have 60 days to move in and must remain in the housing until no longer employed by the city. The city and Sellers would enter into a separate lease agreement prior to move-in. Sellers would be responsible for utility payments, purchasing insurance for contents of the house and routine upkeep and maintenance.

As Seller lives in the home, Webster said the city-owned home, which would a city-owned asset, would appreciate in value. According to city estimates, the home would appreciate by $227,000, and have cumulative lease revenue of $487,500 by the end of the 30year period. When Sellers’ contract ends in 2025, the city would see cumulative lease revenue of approximately $235,000.

Webster said city leaders agreed the deal was the best way to compensate Sellers

Each state is ranked according to statistics made available to the public by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the following categories: fatalities rate per 100 million vehicle Miles Traveled, Failure to Obey, drunk driving, speeding and careless driving

Continued from pg. 1A said. “Sellers has the staff believing in him and council is believing in him. The city is getting a lot done.”

Sellers’ contract also includes a 5 percent base pay salary increase on Oct. 1 of each year. After the fourth year, the city will complete a salary market analysis and use its “best efforts and reasonable cooperation” to get within 5 percent of the market salary and execute a new agreement incorporating the adjusted salary.

The market analysis includes housing benefits, deferred compensation, health benefits, car allowance and any other benefit.

that the race taught him about the recent changes to campaigning with an emphasis on social media communication.

“I congratulated him on his win and told him to go forward and do good work,” Hatch said.

While he didn’t win the election, Hatch said he would continue to support what is best for Buda and her residents.

“I still think a single member district is needed and if someone wants to take up that banner I would be more than happy to support them in their efforts,” Hatch said.

Urbanovsky said he

was gracious when accepting Hatch’s concession but less noticeably excited than many of his supporters at the news of his win.

“I guess I’m happy, but it’s time to go to work now,” Urbanovsky said as he described being up for the challenge ahead.

With the Place 1 election finally behind him, Urbanovsky had a message of unity for all the voters regardless of for whom they voted.

“I want to represent all of Buda. There are no lines separating us between North, South, East or West Buda. I am ready to work for all of Buda,” Urbanovsky said.

Opinion Hays Free Press

QUOTE OF THE WEEK “Oh, my God! Is it possible that I must die?”

– Tom O’Folliard, sidekick to Billy the Kid • This Week in Texas History, page 1C

December 14, 2016

Page 3A

She would rather just dance

I

was walking my dog, Goldie, coming off of Barbee Street, by a dark red brick house with a net-enclosed trampoline in the front yard. Inside the enclosure stood a little girl, maybe three or four, with long brown hair.

She had her back to me as we rounded the corner, but I shouted out to her, “Why don’t you jump?” She did not turn around, but her mother, or grandmother, sitting on the ground beside her while attending to an infant, asked the little girl to jump. The woman turned to me and said, “She’d rather dance.” But the little girl simply stood there as Goldie and I kept moving toward home.

I have taped old episodes of my favorite show, Psych, which I watch every day. When the music comes on, I beat the armrests on my chair to the beat of the drum, to which Goldie reacts with barks and other noises, and my wife shouts, “Do your Goldie dance!” Simple pleasures!

I was thinking about this when I was pondering the Christmas season in which we find ourselves. This time of year carries such huge expectations, that no time of year has a right to carry. All the ills of our society, all the violence, greed and neglect of the poor and of our children, all the wars and rumors of wars are supposed to be taken care of in this season of joy and peace. No wonder there is a spike of suicide attempts during this time of year.

We can’t buy joy or peace or love, but we seem to keep on trying.

I remember sharing a rare Christmas with all my family in Chicago.

It was shortly after my sister got a divorce from her first husband. They

Goldie Walks

by Mark Stoub

have two daughters who were in grade school at the time. The haul of gifts those two girls received was not just lavish, it was so extravagant, it made me uncomfortable. I, at least, was embarrassed for those kids, though I would never tell my sister that.

But that’s what we’re taught to do in this society, aren’t we? Mask the pain, cover over the sadness, and buy your way to happiness.

Hopefully, we discover, as my sister has, that you can’t run from your pain. It would be good if we learned how to embrace it, make it a part of who we are, so we can move on, and spend the majority of our time relishing the moments we have on this beautiful planet we call home.

Maybe during this holiday season, we can pay attention to all of who we are: the sad and the happy, the depressed and the joyful, the angry and the glad.

Then when we think about it, we can learn to dance with these opposites so that they can both find a place inside us, and we don’t have to deny one to experience the other.

That’s at least what I want to try to do, watch my dog, and remember to dance!

It’s getting costly to live here T

here was an article in the Nov. 16 edition of the Hays Free Press about parking fines that cost $140. Near the end of the article one of the “lawbreakers,” a Mr. Pettit said, “Living in Kyle is expensive. I pay $200 more per month in property taxes than I did 4 years ago.” For sure the fine is extremely punitive, excessive, and economically depressing, but what he said about living in Kyle being expensive is even more depressing.

A Hays Free Press article that appeared this summer had one person of authority stating that same complaint, that Kyle is a desirable place to live and because of that it’s getting to be an expensive place to be. As a result of this popularity, property values have rocketed skyward and will continue to do so by all accounts.

The homestead exemption is $25K off the value of your home, plus 10% if over 65, for the school tax only. And you cannot have your taxes raised more than 10% per year.

If taxes as they are now, never increase, and you live in a $100K home after

Mark W Stoub is a retired Presbyterian minister living in Kyle with his wife, Janie, Goldie and cat Calvin. He is the author of a novel, “Blood Under the Altar” and the upcoming “Fire in the Blood.” mj.stoub@sbcglobal.net

I could be wrong

by Ray Wolbrecht

the deduction, you’d pay for that house twice in 31 years and 5 months. Values will always increase unless we become like Detroit.

So you will pay for that second house a lot sooner.

That’s depressing It’s a tad different with commercial property; there are no deductions.

My three pieces of low-level income-producing commercial property rose in value 25%, 50% and 66%.

That’s great if I want to sell it, but crippling if I have to keep it. The appraisal district calculates property value at its cost to rebuild, minus an age coefficient.

It’s my experience that they do not take into account the neighborhood.

Much of the property I own came forth from my own labor. I was the framer, electrician, plumber, roofer and so on. They are imposing a tax on my labor since that is part of the value, and that’s $2.78 per

$100 value on that labor.

And it’s an annual income tax on the same labor.

Gee, I thought Texas didn’t have an income tax. But try presenting that issue to the distrct when protesting your taxes.

If you are Joe lunch bucket paying a mortgage on a second-hand house, you may think high taxes on commercial property don’t concern you. If you buy anything in Kyle you are sharing this overbearing tax with the deed owners of that property. High home and apartment rent in this area reflects high property taxes.

Even more you should be extremely concerned with how those six taxing entities listed on your appraisal information are spending that tax income.

It’s a given that when any of them have a hand in your pocket they can borrow money to build magnificent building and offices for their “work”.

I point to that palatial building that Hays Fire Dept and EMS built a block off the Kyle town square. School districts will NEVER have enough money and they try to get

us to vote for a bond about once or twice a year. It’s for the children, they say, and then they raise taxes to pay for grandiose palaces like Lehman High School. And when you reach 65. your school taxes are frozen but the other five taxing entities are not obliged to freeze them. And aren’t we happy that ACC gives a 50% discount for students in the Hays CISD for two years but you pay taxes to them for the rest of your durn lives.

Governor Greg Abbott says Texans pay the 6th highest property taxes in the nation. In this next session, property tax reform is high on the list of subjects for the Legislature to discuss … and reform, maybe. Property tax relief has always been on their lips, but I don’t recall much ever getting done. I guess we’ll wait and see ... again.

In the meantime, call your state Senator Donna Campbell at 512-463-0125 and state Rep. Jason Isaac at 512-463-0647. If you want something done you have to yell. The squeaky wheel gets the grease. rbrickwall@gmail.com

Flotsam from the President Trump thought stream

T

he early projection: Donald Trump is the end of satire.

Not that as president he would ban it, although in his fantasies he shuts down “Saturday Night Live.” It’s that based on his early proclivities, Trump is beyond lampooning.

Whatever scene a humorist might conjure, he lives it. He is his own work of fiction.

Presidential? Oh my; with smart phone in hand, he is a running joke. Consider the laughable data he mined from a sophomoric web site to assert that Hillary Clinton’s 2.3 million-vote plurality comes from illegal votes.

Granted, the man may turn out to be FDR. Based on his material, however, as of now Trump is Kanye

YoungAt-Large by John Young

West without rhythm.

So is this what we face: Late at night, when Trump should be doing something constructive on behalf of the republic, he paces his quarters, armpits ablaze, sleeveless like Brando on stage, rat-tat-tatting out dubious mind-blorts into the wee Twitter hours.

With fake news and a never-ending stream of bad information, with fact-checkers hospitalized for exhaustion, President Trump finally may answer the question, “Can anyone break the Internet?

Hays Free Press Publisher Cyndy Slovak-Barton News and Sports Editor Moses Leos III

Just another night: Trump tweets his thoughts about flag-burning.

Flag-burners should be jailed and their citizenship revoked, he says.

The Supreme Court ruled in 1989 that flag-burning is protected symbolic speech. (Arson is a crime; inciting a riot is a crime; theft is a crime.

Symbolism is not a crime.)

Not only that, but the court elevated such an act above free-speech quandaries like obscenity, for one reason alone: Flag desecration is a commentary on the government.

The proposition that a nation based on freedom of thought would dictate how people could comport themselves around a government symbol should repel anyone who embraces

American principles.

The type of authoritarian patriotism Trump craves was embraced

by India’s highest court recently when it ordered movie theaters to play the national anthem before each show, with the audience required to stand.

More on inconvenient speech: In the campaign, Trump said that as president he would “open up the libel laws” to allow public figures to sue the press. So doing, Trump showed that he didn’t have a clue about press law or what his threat would mean.

In the landmark New York Times vs. Sullivan ruling of 1964, the Supreme Court told people like Trump who seek to run the country, or a state, or a city, or a school district, that the

Barton Publications, Inc. News tips: news@haysfreepress.com Opinions: csb@haysfreepress.com

Reporters Samantha Smith, Logan McCullough, Jonathan Gonzales Columnists Bartee Haile, Chris Winslow, Pauline Tom, Phil Jones

Proofreaders Jane Kirkham Marketing Director Tracy Mack Marketing Specialists James Darby, Pam Patino

bar would be set purposefully high for defamation claims. The low bar that existed before the Sullivan ruling chilled discussions of public policy.

Oh, in case Trump also doesn’t know about the court’s ruling in Hustler Magazine vs. Falwell (1988), he also can’t sue for being spoofed. Opinion is protected speech.

So much to learn about the Constitution, Mr. President.

The New York Times ruminated the other day on the dilemma of treating every tweet from Trump as news. This is more than a media problem. For a president-elect to use social media as a nightstand scratch pad is childish and dangerous.

How about an Etch-a-

Sketch, Mr. Trump? It can be erased.

Here’s wishing that at some point the president-elect realizes it’s in the interests of the nation to give more than a moment’s thought to the sharing whatever notion crosses his mind.

Right now, undoubtedly, seasoned aides offer reassurance about all the legal and ethical vagaries: “Your elitist, know-it-all critics assert that at every turn you are giving out bad information. No problem, Sir. The nifty thing about this First Amendment is that it protects even that.”

Longtime newspaperman John Young lives in Colorado. youngcolumn@gmail.com

113 W. Center St., Kyle, TX 78640 www.haysfreepress.com 512-268-7862

Production Manager David White

Circulation/Classifieds David White

Production Assistant Christine Thorpe

Distribution Gabe Ornelas Tanya Ornelas

Hays Free Press • December 14, 2016

Page 4A

Buda cuts ties with Prop 1, 2 project management group

BY SAMANTHA SMITH

news@haysfreepress.com

Action taken earlier this month allowed Buda to officially cut ties with ECM International, a professional project management firm which oversaw Propositions 1 and 2 of the 2014 Buda Bond projects.

Buda Mayor Todd Ruge said the decision came after weeks of deliberation by council members behind closed doors in executive session in which the city and ECM were in “dispute resolution” trying to work it out.

“We were trying to get on the same page with ECM and we felt we wanted to go in a different direction,” Ruge said.

During the same coun-

Ruge said the city received bids from eight different companies that sought to take over the $24 million projects. The Buda City Council approved Broaddus by a unanimous vote.

cil meeting on Dec. 6, Buda city leaders tabbed Broaddus as the project management group that will take over the bond propositions.

Ruge said the city received bids from eight different companies that sought to take over the $24 million projects.

The Buda City Council approved Broaddus by a unanimous vote.

Ruge said that even though ECM is no longer in the picture, HDR

Engineering and Page Architects, firms originally hired by ECM, would work under Broaddus.

“We are very pleased moving forward since Broaddus actually came in second for the original bid,” Ruge said. “It was a unanimous decision to go with them.”

Ruge said that despite the difference in vision, there is no bad blood between ECM International and the city.

“I think they (ECM)

Lehman Hole: 7-foot cavity under road Continued from pg. 1A

assistance, along with ideas and support.

It is unknown at this time when repairs on the affected low water crossing will be completed. Kim Hilsenbeck, Kyle communications specialist, said fixing the low water crossing is “top priority.”

Barba said the issue was discovered by a city crew member who drove over the low water crossing late Tuesday.

The crew member saw a hole in the top of the road and called public works.

An examination showed pipes under the road, which are estimated to be 20 years old, appeared to have

City crews also put off “any major repairs” as Lehman Road is part of Kyle’s $35 million road bond package, which was approved by voters in 2013. rusted along the bottom, creating holes in the pipes.

Water from recent rain events going through the pipes under the low water crossing area pulled out backfill, which created a “deep cavity.”

Barba said in a statement some of the backfill base was pushed downstream 20 yards.

According to the city, that part of Lehman Road was previously repaired

in a different section in 2015, which was a temporary fix, following the Halloween Flood.

City crews also put off “any major repairs” as Lehman Road is part of Kyle’s $35 million road bond package, which was approved by voters in 2013.

According to the city, the current timeline for the start of the Lehman Road reconstruction is April 2017.

handled themselves very professionally through the dispute resolution process and they are a very good firm. We just had different visions for the projects,” Ruge said.

Ruge also said that the dissolution of services through ECM for the 2014 Bond projects had no effect on its future prospects for working with the city of Buda.

“ECM is doing great work with the county and I don’t see any reason why we can’t work with them again in the future,” Ruge said.

512-504-9988 Hours: Mon-Sat, 12 p.m.-8 p.m.

121 HALL PROFESSIONAL CTR, SUITE E KYLE, TX 78640

NOT ALL CHURCHES ARE CREATED EQUAL.

T

here are a lot of people out there that love God and His Son Jesus Christ, but have given up on attending church for a variety of reasons.

At POR TU GRACIA FELLOWSHIP (By His Grace) the inspired word of God is our foundation of truth. We believe that the Holy Spirit who lives in us, who are born again, guides us in all things.

Because of His presence, we are ALL members of one BODY OF CHRIST, no matter what local church we attend.

NO SERMONS, JUST THE TEACHING OF THE BIBLE, chapter by chapter & verse by verse.

Pastor John Burke

Come visit us!

Sundays at 10:30 am 701 Roland Lane, Kyle 512-557-0930 An English Speaking Church

I chose CTMC Hospice.

• Skilled Nursing Services • Home Health Aides • 24-hour access to RN • Medications and Equipment • Massage Therapy • Grief Counseling Visits • Physician P • Chaplain • Social Worker • Respite Care

HOSPICE CARE 512.754.6159

Sports

Section B GREAT OUTDOORS Negley Elementary hosts annual Outdoor Expo.

– Page 3B

@hfprebelsports @hfplobosports

December 14, 2016

Lady Rebs stun state-ranked Pflugervile in season warmup

BY MOSES LEOS III

news@haysfreepress.com

Monday’s non-district matchup between the Hays Rebels and stateranked Pflugerville Panthers took on the feel of a wild roller coaster ride.

But a gritty effort in the final seconds, along with a late Pflugerville miscue, helped Hays escape with a key 52-50 win.

Hays High senior Gabby Bosquez, who tallied a game-high 24 points, said she believed the win could provide motivation for the Rebels as they start district play.

“It means a lot at the start of district play and it boosts our confidence,” Bosquez said. “We haven’t started district well, but beating this team ... it should motivate us. If we play like ourselves and just play basketball, we can do good stuff this year.”

Both teams approached the game with a fast-paced, high-energy pace as Hays and Pflugerville traded leads and runs.

Ball security was an issue both teams struggled to rectify. Both Hays and Pflugerville committed numerous turnovers during the course of the game.

Hays head coach Danny Preuss said defense from both sides played a role in turnover woes.

Preuss said he focused on his team driving the ball into the lane, but that his team is a “jump-shooting team.”

“At times it was a sloppy game. At times, it was a very well executed game,” Preuss said. “They’re good. They’re fast. If you don’t meet the pass and you don’t make the pass, they’ll get (turnovers).”

Bosquez said the team could have been more decisive on “what we

HAYS FREE PRESS FILE PHOTO

Lehman High goalkeeper Maya Erwin rifles a kick downfield during the Lobos’ 2016 alumni game in January.

Erwin, who returns for her final season, will help lead the Lady Lobos soccer team in 2017.

PHOTOS BY MOSES LEOS III

Hays Rebel senior guard Choon Hee Chae (above, 22) is accosted by Pflugerville Panther Britney Onyeje as she attacks the basket Monday at Bales Gym. Below, Hays High junior Gabby Bosquez (2) goes for a layup beyond a Pflugerville Panther’s reach.

wanted to do.”

“We were rushing a lot of stuff and we could have slowed down and made smarter decisions,” Bosquez said. “It was fast-paced and everything happened so fast.”

Hays and Pflugerville were tied at 12-12 in the second quarter when the Panthers forged a 10-0 run aided by four consecutive Hays turnovers.

The Rebels countered right back with a 9-3 run to close out the first half, pulling within two points at 25-23 at halftime.

Bosquez said rallying for runs helped spur momentum for the group.

“It increased our confidence and our willingness

Lady Lobos welcome youth as season nears

BY MOSES LEOS III

news@haysfreepress.com

LADY REBEL HOOPS, 2B

Hays CISD athletes make the cut as Academic All-State

CAMERON JOHN SON

After watching nine seniors graduate last year, Lehman head girls soccer coach Nauri Garcia understood 2017 could be a bit of a rebuilding season.

But even with a variety of new faces, Garcia is optimistic the Lobos can continue to forge success.

“Last year, we made the playoffs because of depth,” Garcia said.

“Those girls that were backups to those seniors are getting positions as starters and taking the role of leaders and being the ones that will be game winners.”

Leading the Lady Lobos will be senior goalkeeper Maya Erwin, who was selected as the 2016 14-6A Player of the Year.

Joining her will be several returning starters including Brittany Avona and Jamie Vargas. Garcia said their experience has gone toward teaching

“Those girls that were backups to those seniors are getting positions as starters and taking the role of leaders and being the ones that will be game winners.”

–Nauri Garcia, Lehman Head Girls Soccer Coach

a team comprised of juniors that includes Destiny Eberley. Also returning is sophomore Kyla Johnson.

“They have experience from last

LADY LOBO SOCCER, 2B

TYLER HENDERSON Nine Hays CISD athletes made the grade earlier this week after they were named to the 2016 Texas High School Coaches Association Academic AllState list. Athletes selected are recognized for excelling in GPA, class rank and ACT/SAT score.

HAYS First team Peyton Steele Second team Tanner North Brandon Mendieta Cameron Johnson Honorable Mention Servando Rodriguez III Christopher Balderas

EDWARD ARANA

PHOTO BY MOSES LEOS III

LEHMAN

Lobos fall to Lions

Second team Edward Arana Tyler Henderson Honorable mention Abel Longoria

TANNER NORTH

Lehman High junior guard Allisa Mitchell (right) defends a McNeil Maverick player during a game in the Hays CISD Classic Tournament. Nine points scored by Lehman senior Meghan Zuniga wasn’t enough Friday as the Lobos fell to the Leander Lions 66-32 in both teams’ district opener. Lehman senior Crystal Montoya scored eight points while Janessa Grogan tallied seven points. Leander’s Alicia Molina scored a game high 25-points.

Sports

Page 2B

Hays Free Press • December 14, 2016

Lady Lobo Soccer Continued from pg. 1B

PHOTOS BY RAFAEL MARQUEZ

Central Texas Lobos fall to Hurricanes

A Central Texas Lobo player takes to the air to head the ball forward during the team’s match Saturday at Gregg-Clarke Park in Kyle. Lobo defender Conteh Muctarr (right) speeds down field as a Houston Hurricane defender gives chase. The Central Texas Lobos completed their 2016 schedule Saturday as they took on the Houston Hurricanes. But a lone Houston goal was the difference as the Hurricanes escaped with a 1-0 win. The Lobos, which are playing its inaugural season, are currently 1-2-3.

County Line Polo Club hosts Winter Classic

CHRISTMAS SALE! (512) 665-1027 (512) 665-8930 ForeverMemoriesPhotographyKyle.com NEW GUN STORE

to keep engaged and not give up,” Bosquez said.

The blistering pace continued into the third frame as both teams went punch-for-punch.

A three-pointer by Bosquez in the latter seconds gave Hays a 3633 lead heading into the fourth quarter.

But Pflugerville, led

by Britney Onyeje and London Clarkson, rallied right back in the final quarter.

After Hays took a 43-41 lead, Pflugerville powered ahead for a critical 7-0 run capped off by a Onyeje bucket in transition off a Rebel turnover.

Pflugerville had a 48-

512-280-1192

Visit: www.itsaboutthyme.com Email Chris Winslow at: iathyme@yahoo.com

is key.

“You want them to know what their options are when they’re placed in these situations,” Garcia said. “You can’t cover them all, but things happen in patterns. When things do happen, we’ll make sure the girls know what to do.”

43 lead and the momentum. But Preuss said willpower helped Hays in the end.

The Rebels clawed their way back with a 7-0 run highlighted by a three-pointer from guard Choon Hee Chae that tied the score at 50-50.

Preuss said the Rebels were helped by play from Bosquez, Chae, Meagan Andrews and Jada Finister.

Luck then shined the Rebels’ way with 12 seconds left.

Pflugerville, which was over the limit on fouls, suffered a miscue as a player fouled Chae in the backcourt with the

game tied.

Chae sunk both free throws to give Hays a two-point lead. Hays’ defense clamped down to close the game.

Preuss said the game was reminiscent of last year’s playoff game against Pflugerville, which the Rebels lost down the stretch.

He said pulling out the game in the end could provide a boost as district continues Friday on the road at Lake Travis.

“We’ve got to get ready for these. There is no one in this district we can take lightly,” Preuss said. “You have to show up night in, night out.”

GUN STORE NOW OPEN

Christmas Sale!

SPECIALTY FIREARMS, SILENCERS, AMMO AND SBRs

11726 Manchaca Rd., Austin, TX 78748 (On the corner of Frate Barker Rd.)

For Garcia, implementing what they’re trying to run on the field and finding cohesion are some short-term goals for the team.

While soccer is a player’s sport, Garcia said teaching players situational awareness in order to foster success

Continued from pg. 1B

The County Line Polo Club hosted its 3rd Annual Winter Polo Classic Saturday. Polo Clubs from Texas Military, San Antonio and Texas State, as well as riders from County Line, came to compete and promote the sport of polo.

Above are two Texas State riders prepping one of the horses before a match.

Weddings, parties, graduations and on-location portraits

HAYS FREE PRESS FILE PHOTO

Lehman High’s Kyla Johnson fends off an Austin Maroon player during a district match played at Lobo Field in 2016.

Lady Rebel Hoops

PHOTOS BY DAVID WHITE

Forever Memories Photography

year’s squad and that is helping those (younger) players blossom,” Garcia said.

With a new team, however, comes some change. Garcia said the 2017 Lobos are a smaller group from last year, and must also fill the voids left by the previous senior class.

Garcia said the team is working on synchronizing with each other and aiming to find out “what works and what doesn’t.”

What they may lack in stature, they make up with their agility, Garcia said. He said the Lady Lobos are versatile and are “small and quick.”

Garcia said the Lobos could use agility to their advantage, but that the team continues to center on being a “counter-attack team.”

Lehman will take the “defense first” mentality into a tough district 25-6A gauntlet that includes Hays, Lake Travis and Westlake. Joining the fray is Vandegrift, which finished last season as regional finalists in 5A, and Vista Ridge, which reached the 5A state semifinal.

But Garcia said he and the team are up to the task of taking on top tier competition during the district race.

“In order to be the best, you have to beat the best,” Garcia said.

“If you’re throwing the best at us first, that’s the challenge we face.”

2390 FM 2001 Buda, TX 78610 512-621-4015

FSC FALLING SKIES CORP

Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday, 11:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Saturday, 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Closed Sunday

fallingskiescorp.com

www.

Education

ELECTIONS

Local election administrator reflects before retirement.

– Page 1C

Hays Free Press • December 14, 2016

Page 3B

Animals, choppers, more at Negley Outdoor Expo Negley Elementary students got the chance to interact with a 30-year-old tortoise, a bomb-sniffing dog and even take in a helicopter fly-in during the 2016 Negley Outdoor Expo Friday. Negley coach Pete Welma was the driving force behind the event, which included multiple organizations and departments, including the Hays County Sheriff’s Office, Kyle Fire and Police departments.

PHOTOS BY JIM CULLEN

Rebel rifle team earns top marks

BY JIM CULLEN

news@haysfreepress.com

The Hays High Marine JROTC varsity Marksmanship team earned top honors after earning the top ranking as the best Marine Corps Marksmanship team in Texas. Hays High’s team was also ranked as No. 4 team in the nation.

The news came after the team was celebrating a first place overall title at the Brenham High MCJROTC Military Skills meet.

Lt. Colonel Donald Wimp said the team is headed to the Service National Championships in Las Vegas, Nevada Feb. 9-11 There they will compete against 15 of the best teams the nation.

PHOTO BY JIM CULLEN

Buda Elementary choir spreads holiday cheer at Sodalis

PHOTO BY JIM CULLEN

The celebrating Reb MCJOTC Marksmanship team and its battalion commander includes (L-R) C/SSgt Gaven Kemp, C/1stLt Morguhn Burke, Lt. Col Donald Wimp, C/Sgt Issiah White, C/1stLt Zachary Zapata. Not pictured, C/Sgt Mark Stewart.

the top score during qualification and that he has a chance “to become

Wimp adds that Team Captain Issiah White shot one point behind

Christmas cheer was in the air as the Buda Elementary School Choir performed its program of seasonal songs to the Sodalis Elderly Care Center. Director Deborah Martinez led her choir members through a selection of seasonal songs. Sodalis residents, parents and family members applauded with every song.

#1 in sporter class shooter in the nation in Las Vegas.”

© 2017 by Vicki Whiting, Editor Jeff Schinkel, Graphics Vol. 33, No. 3

Color Confusion

Change one letter on each paint bottle label to make the name of a color. Then, use crayons or markers to color each bottle the correct color.

Spread some holiday cheer with these simple decorations for the season.

STUFF YOU’LL NEED:

glitter

DROWN

STUFF YOU’LL NEED:

SLACK

RID

PINT BLUB

marshmallows

M&M’s

fruit leather

round cake pan (or bundt pan)

scissors

STUFF YOU’LL NEED:

GREED

watercolor paints

(basket type)

Work with a parent to make these fun holiday treats. wooden skewers

berries, leaves, small flowers

coffee filter

MELLOW

Standards Link: Reading Comprehension: Follow simple written directions.

strawberries

small bowl

1. Lay filter flat.

2. Fold in half.

4. Cut out shapes along the edge of the folded filter. These can be semi-circles, triangles or just lines.

rock that fits in bowl

1. Fill your cake pan container with water, leaving a little space at the top.

3. Fold in half again (and one more time if you can).

5. Open the filter and lay it flat to see your snowflake design.

ribbon or string

2. Place bowl in center of pan and weigh down with a rock or heavy soup can.*

3. Place berries and leaves in water. Freeze overnight.

4. The next day, fill your sink with warm water. Put your cake pan in the water just long enough to loosen the ice ring. Remove the bowl.

6. Paint your snowflake with watercolors. Add some glitter for extra holiday sparkle!

5. Carefully take ice ring out of the cake pan and tie a long ribbon to it to hang it from a tree branch outside.

pretzel sticks

S H T N E M A N R O S N O W F L A K E S

vanilla wafer

A S N G I S E D R O R H N C S D I E G R

1. Thread three marshmallows onto each skewer.

L P A I N T I Y K E

2. Use frosting as glue to stick on vanilla wafer hat brim.

K A E E E T A N Z E

E E N G H E A V Y R S S F E S T I V E T

Look through the newspaper for a weather report. Design your own symbols for different kinds of weather conditions including frost, snow, sun, rain, wind, clouds, fog and thunder and lightning.

*Skip this step if using bundt pan.

chocolate frosting

P E A L S R E T A W

3. Use frosting dots to make eyes, mouth and buttons.

4. Slice off the tip of a strawberry to form the top of the hat, using frosting as glue.

Weather Symbols

The ice wreath will melt slowly, but in the meantime, you can enjoy this festive decoration!

TRY THIS: You can glue several snowflakes to a long strip of red, white, gold or green paper to make a cool holiday table runner.

SNOWFLAKES ORNAMENT HOLIDAY SPARKLE FESTIVE WREATH DESIGN FREEZE SHAPES PAINT HEAVY WATER SINK TREE ICE

5. Use a dab of frosting to glue on an orange M&M nose.

Standards Link: Research: Use the newspaper to locate information.

STUFF YOU’LL NEED:

glue scissors craft sticks 1. Cut craft sticks into five different lengths with edges angled as shown.

paint

chenille stem

2. Paint pieces with a variety of patterns.

Let dry completely.

3. Glue tree pieces onto a craft stick trunk.

Glue a loop of chenille stem to hang ornament.

Make your own holiday cards by clipping out words and pictures from your local newspaper. Add a two-line rhyme for a special holiday greeting.

Standards Link: Research: Use the newspaper to locate information.

Write a poem about winter that is no more than five lines long.

6. Cut a strip of fruit leather and wrap around to form scarf.

7. Insert pretzel sticks for arms.

EDUCATION

Page 4B

Hays Free Press • December 14, 2016

Education Foundation awards $75,000 in grants Hays Education Foundation board members toured Hays CISD campuses last week bearing gifts of Innovative Teaching Grants and multiple minigrants. Recent record-breaking community support allowed the Foundation to award more than $75,000 in needed funds for a total of 49 projects. The board, right, gave an Innovative Teaching Grant ($1,729) at Pfluger Elementary to recipient Jessica Ovalle for her proposed “Sensing Achievements with Sensory Integration.” The full celebrating group included (back, L-R) Foundation Board members Nathan Miller, Ray Bryant, (HCISD Superintendent) Mike McKie, Pam Kaye, Bert Bronaugh; (front L-R) Foundation Executive Director Angie Mendez, Board members Kerri Espinoza, Marilyn Van Uum, grant recipient Jessica Ovalle, Board members Vanessa Petrea, Julie Snyder, Genelle Duran, and Pfluger Elementary School Principal Kathy Noack.

PHOTO BY JIM CULLEN

DEBBIE THAMES AGENT

Debbie Thames Insurance Debbie Thames Insurance Agency Agency

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

Your Business & Referrals Are Appreciated Your Business & Referrals Are Appreciated

LONG ORTHODONTICS would like to WELCOME you Back to School!

PHOTO BY JIM CULLEN

PHOTO BY JIM CULLEN

Contreras conquers spelling bee at Buda Elementary

Twenty-six Buda Elementary School students battled it out in the 2016 BES Spelling Bee. But it wasn’t until the 15th round when fifth grader Zoe Contreras edged out third grader Amari Peterson for the school championship. Contreras won the title by spelling “precursor” and “infuriating” correctly. Contreras advances to the area round, which will be held in 2017.

Yanta wins Elm Grove bee

Drama was high at the Elm Grove Elementary School spelling bee as Eagle third grader Cooper Yanta claimed the title of spelling bee champion. Yanta closed out the title by correctly spelling “ravine” and “rendition.” Yanta will continue his journey by appearing at the upcoming area spell in bee, which will be hosted locally in 2017. Above are (back row, L-R) Ian Rodriguez, Samantha Scott, (front row, l-r) Yanta and Alden Guetzlaff.

B FM 967, #A110 Buda, TexasTexas 78610 78610 3310 B 3310 FM 967, SteSTE#A110, Buda, Near Near the corner FM1626 1626 the cornerof of FM and and 967 967

We are now exclusively in Buda 512-523-8680 to accommodate your orthodontic needs.

512-523-8680 • longortho.com

We are now in Buda to accommodate your needs 3 days a week! longortho.com

GREAT PRIMARY CARE.

ONE CALL AWAY. Schedule an appointment in your neighborhood today.

Call toll free 1-844-235-8441.

Answered 7 days a week.

Extended hours and some same-day illness appointments available.

Locations in Austin, Round Rock, Pflugerville, Kyle, Smithville, Bastrop, Luling, and Lockhart.

Seton.net/Primary-Care

COMPREHENSIVE CARE FOR

GROWING HEARTS

From newborns to teens, a heart condition, whether it’s simple or complex, requires a team of experts providing specialized care just for kids. That’s why Dell Children’s Regional Heart Center, a partnership with UT Southwestern Medical Center, provides the only full continuum of heart care for kids in Central Texas. And now, the center has expanded its cardiovascular surgery program to best serve growing hearts.

WELCOME DR. HANCOCK FRIESEN! DELL CHILDREN’S REGIONAL HEART CENTER 4900 Mueller Blvd.

Austin, TX 78723 Camille Hancock Friesen, MD Pediatric Cardiovascular Surgery

For patient referrals, please call 1-855-324-0091.

DellChildrens.net/Heart

At DellChildrensER.com, you can now hold your place in line. Meaning, you’ll be seen within 15 minutes of your scheduled time. Remember, DellChildrensER.com is for mini emergencies only. If your child is experiencing a major emergency, get to the ER ASAP or dial 9-1-1.

Section C

Community

County elections admin says goodbye to the race

BY SAMANTHA SMITH

news@haysfreepress.com

– Page 1D December 14, 2016 • Page 1C

Young Texan picks wrong hero to worship

B

W

PHOTO BY SAMANTHA SMITH

Hays County Elections Administrator and Voter Registrar Joyce Cowan, who has held the position for the last 31 years, will retire from her position as of Dec. 31.

Since the position of elections administrator is not an elected position and it would take a 4/5 majority to terminate Cowan, she joked that she serves the people, “but the court controls the purse strings.” office and here to serve the people,” Cowan said.

Cowan acknowledged many believe her job ends when Election Day ends. But she also says that her job is a year-long process.

“We’re still working on November elections and

at the same time we are working on various runoff elections across the county,” Cowan said.

In between elections, Cowan said she and her staff are still responsible for voter registration in Hays County, but that the responsibility of running

elections never ends.

Cowan said the reason is that voting districts and entities in Hays County have to use the county’s voting equipment.

“The work never really ends,” Cowan said.

As for rumors that have been swirling around social media that the Nov. 8 general election could have been rigged or that election results could have been tampered with, Cowan said it was a nonissue for Hays County.

“All of our voting machines are plugged into outlets, there’s no connection to the Internet so no chance of hacking the results,” Cowan said.

Buda eyes creation of new VFW

BY JONATHAN GONZALEZ news@haysfreepress.com

The establishment of a new Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) post in the city of Buda is in motion as Bob Holcomb, a local veteran and member of the Kyle/Buda VFW Post 12058, seeks to expand the presence of the nonprofit veterans organization.

Holcomb has been a member of the VFW for over 11 years, but only recently in the last three months has he actively campaigned to start a Buda post.

“I am currently of the Kyle/Buda VFW Post 12058, but recently I’ve been looking to start our own branch here in Buda,” Holcomb said. “I had a meeting with the charter leader in Kyle, and spoke to him about establishing this branch as a way of expanding our presence.”

However, Holcomb said the creation of the Buda post isn’t meant to be a competition between them.

“The Kyle VFW has more than enough members, so we decided it’d be good to expand. Our mission in the VFW is to help other veterans. A post in Buda would allow us to reach out to other

Deep Eddy, Buda finalize facility agreement.

Hays Free Press

HaysFreePress.com

hen the final ballot is counted and the last precinct’s votes come in, some assume the job of an elections administrator is finished.

Hays County Elections Administrator and Voter Registrar Joyce Cowan, who has held the position for the last 31 years, said that’s far from the truth.

When the calendar flips on Dec. 31, Hays County residents will bid farewell to Cowan, who is retiring from her position.

While she recalled her tenure as Hays County’s Elections Administrator as challenging, Cowan feels that the efficacy of her office speaks for itself.

Cowan said she was originally hired in October 1985 by a committee of five people within the Hays County staff.

Those were the county’s tax assessor, county judge, county clerk and the Republican and Democratic chairpersons.

Cowan said her role as Elections Administrator is to serve the public, but she answers to the commissioners court, primarily the county judge. That position is currently held

by Bert Cobb.

Since the position of elections administrator is not an elected position and it would take a 4/5 majority to terminate Cowan, she joked that she serves the people, “but the court controls the purse strings.”

Cowan said the Hays County Elections Office is responsible for handling voting equipment and running elections all across Hays County, as well as managing voter registration for all Hays County residents.

“We are a nonpartisan

BOOZE-DA

HAYS FREE PRESS FILE PHOTO

Area veterans may soon have a choice between VFW posts if enough sign up for a proposed Buda station.

veterans.”

In order to establish a post in Buda, Holcomb said it needs a minimum of 35 members with at least ten who are newly enrolled.

“We have more than 35 members willing to join the Buda VFW, but we don’t have the ten new members needed for the requirements,” Holcomb said. “Once we get those members, we’ll submit our application to the Texas State Department of the VFW, who’ll review our paperwork.”

Holcomb, a veteran of 23 years in the Navy, retired as Master Chief after serving in various

places, including the Gulf Coast and the Mediterranean.

In his efforts to establish the post, he’s met with city officials, including Mayor Todd Ruge, to discuss the matter, who were all supportive of his work.

“J.R. Gonzales with the Buda Chamber of Commerce [in particular] has been very helpful in our cause, but all the council members and local businesses I met with showed their support as well,” Holcomb said.

“The council even offered to keep an eye out for a permanent place for us to hold regular meetings.

“The Kyle VFW has more than enough members, so we decided it’d be good to expand.

Our mission in the VFW is to help other veterans. A post in Buda would allow us to reach out to other veterans.”

– Bob Holcomb

Although the Buda VFW does not have its own meeting place right now, they’ve received help from the Buda Fire Department to provide a temporary space.

“We are actively looking for a permanent place to hold our meetings, but Fire Chief [Clay] Huckaby has been kind enough to allow us to use a classroom in one of the fire departments,” Holcomb said.

illy the Kid rode into Fort Sumner, New Mexico with five fellow fugitives on the night of Dec. 19, 1880, but sensing danger in the darkness, the most wanted outlaw in the Southwest pulled up leaving a young Texan in the lead.

If his parents had not perished in a smallpox epidemic soon after emigrating from Ireland, life might have been very different for Tom O’Folliard. Relatives in Uvalde, Texas took pity on the orphan and tried hard to mold him into a law-abiding adult. But he was immune to their strict teachings and ran off right after his twentieth birthday.

O’Folliard wandered all the way to Lincoln County, New Mexico, scene of the fabled frontier feud that forced everyone, native and newcomer, to pick a side. Always on the lookout for fresh recruits, William “Billy the Kid” Bonney befriended the bewildered Texan, who eagerly joined his growing gang.

In a matter of weeks, O’Folliard was an old and trusted hand rustling cattle and stealing horses with the best and worst of his new companions.

He also accepted with question Billy’s convincing justification for the crime spree, romantic resistance against the corrupt forces of law and order.

As a member of the so-called “McSween faction,” O’Folliard fought in the epic 72-hour battle in the streets of Lincoln in the summer of 1878. He was among the dozen gunmen trapped in a house on the third day by the arrival of hostile regular army troops.

When flames began to envelope the structure shortly after nightfall, the McSween men had no choice but to make a break for a nearby river. O’Folliard was the first out the door and home free until he went back to help a wounded cohort.

A bullet tore through his shoulder as snipers dropped several more friends in their tracks.

Realizing it was every man for himself, the Texan sprinted to safety and eluded capture.

While in hiding after the Lincoln shootout, O’Folliard was secretly visited by his uncle Thalis Cook, a Texas Ranger. He urged his wayward nephew to surrender, but the youth stubbornly refused. His addiction to the exciting existence outside the law and misguided loyalty to his mentor kept him on the road to ruin.

A posse led by Pat Garrett almost caught O’Folliard in early December 1880. The Texan traded shots with the lawmen before finally losing them after a long chase in open country.

As the six desperadoes slowly rode single file into Fort Sumner two weeks later, Billy silently slipped to the rear. Alone at the head of the line,

This Week In Texas History

by Bartee Haile

O’Folliard was a sitting duck. He reached for his gun the instant Garrett yelled, “Halt!” but a slug slammed into his chest before he could pull the trigger.

Abandoning O’Folliard to his fate, Billy and the rest of the gang raced out of town without firing a shot.

The mortally wounded Texan tried in vain to catch up with them before finally reining in his horse.

“Don’t shoot, Garrett,” he pleaded pitifully. “I’m killed.” A deputy, who cautiously approached the outlaw, answered softly, “Take your medicine, old boy.

Take your medicine.”

O’Folliard offered no resistance and struggled to stay in the saddle. When Garrett demanded that he raise his hands, he explained that he could not lift his arms above his head. Repeating the prediction of his imminent death, O’Folliard asked to be lowered to the ground.

The possemen obliged and carried him indoors to die.

But oblivion did not come as quickly as O’Folliard expected, and he begged the sullen sheriff to end his suffering. Pat Garrett, who would soon murder an old pal in cold blood in the name of justice, ignored the pathetic appeal for mercy.

The deputy again advised O’Folliard to take his medicine, which this time must have meant to go to his reward quietly. He smiled weakly and whispered, “It’s the best medicine I ever took.”

Though blood poured from the gaping gunshot wound beneath his heart, O’Folliard lingered with the living for almost an hour.

Delirious toward the end, he cried, “Oh, my God! Is it possible that I must die?”

Evidently angry that O’Folliard had escaped the gallows, Garrett would not let his prisoner depart in peace. “Tom, your time is short,” he loudly announced, as if the dying man required a reminder.

O’Folliard answered with his last words. “The sooner, the better. I will be out of pain.” A few seconds later, he felt nothing at all.

That night they buried Tom O’Folliard in the Fort Sumner cemetery, but he was not alone for long.

Seven months later, Billy the Kid joined him in the same graveyard.

That was the way the Texan would have wanted it, to spend eternity alongside his flawed hero.

Bartee welcomes your comments and questions at barteehaile@gmail. com or P.O. Box 152, Friendswood, TX 77549 and invites you to visit his web site at barteehaile.com.

COMMUNITY

Page 2C

Hays Free Press • December 14, 2016

OBITUARIES DALTON Col. Roy Dalton (USAF Ret.) of Austin, Texas completed his final PCS (Permanent Change of Station) on Dec. 2, 2016. Col. Dalton was born Feb. 27, 1931 in Blanchard, Okla. to Roy and Bessie Dalton.

The oldest of three siblings and was preceded in death by his sister Evelyn and brother Gerald D. Dalton. He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Bonita F. (Butch) Dalton and three sons: Gary L. Dalton (Frankston, Tx), wife Becki, three grandsons, Hudson, Roy Don and Cody and granddaughter, Tara and one great-grandson, Donavan.

Son Kirby L. Dalton (Dallas, Tx) and wife Jodi and one granddaughter, Aleah Pace. Son Brad L. Dalton (Austin, Tx) and Annette and one grandson, Travis.

Col. Dalton grew up in Borger, Texas, attended West Texas State University and received his degree from the University of Southern Mississippi. He served in the USAF for 29 years, retiring as a Colonel. He was a fighter pilot and subsequently spent 13 years serving in the Air Force Special Operations and received numerous medals and commendations. He was a Command Pilot and completed 235 combat missions. He retired in 1983. He and his wife Butch retired to Austin, Texas in 1984 and lived in Onion Creek.

After retirement Col. Dalton was the Founder and first Commander and longtime member of the Onion Creek American Legion Post 326. He was a member of the Daedalians, served as President of the Onion Creek Homeowners Association, was President of the board of Directors of the Barton Springs Edwards Aquifer and also served on the Board of the Directors of the Onion Creek Club. He and his wife have been members of the Hyde Park Baptist Church since 1984.

In lieu of flowers it is the departed’s wish that donations be made to the Onion Creek American Legion Post 326 to assist in their unending support of the veterans and the local community.

Please visit www.Harrellfuneralhomes.com to share a fond memory, photograph, or condolence with Col. Dalton’s family on his On-line memorial site

DENTON Doris Emma Berner Denton was born July 13, 1922 in Houston, Texas, to Frederick (Fritz) and Hermine Brandt Berner. She departed this life on Sunday, December 4, 2016 in Kyle, Texas. She married James Howard

(Jimmy) Denton on March 3, 1943, and they had one daughter. For most of her working life she supported Jimmy in his diesel repair business in Houston, Texas by managing the secretarial and bookkeeping aspect of the business. They resided in Houston and later in Sugarland, Texas.

They retired to Bellville, Texas, and later to Austin, Texas. During her retirement years, Doris enjoyed volunteer work with Bellville General Hospital, Saint David’s Medical Center in Austin, and the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin. She was preceded in death by her parents, Fritz and Hermine Berner, husband Jimmy Denton and sister Lola Berner Russell.

She is survived by her daughter Barbara Denton (husband Joe Berry), grandson Geoffrey Powell (wife Michaela), granddaughter Jessica Sifuentes (husband Gabe), greatgrandchildren Colton Powell, Isidra Powell, Isabel Powell, Leyla Sifuentes and Maya Sifuentes, niece Joan Ruisinger, and nephew Warren Russell.

Doris was a wonderful mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend who always put her family first. She will be deeply missed.

Services will be at 11 a.m. on Saturday, December 10, 2016, at St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church, 8724 Travis Hills Dr., Austin, Texas, with The Reverend Anne Knight Hoey officiating.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church or to Meals on Wheels Central Texas, 3227 East 5th Street, Austin, TX 78702.

attending summer school in Bryan, TX. He continued that pattern by working while putting himself through college in three years, beginning at Sam Houston State University before transferring and graduating from the University of Texas.

Jay’s parents saw that he had a natural gift with numbers at a very young age and recognizing that gift he worked towards and received his license as a Certified Public Accountant and eventually had his own firm in Humble, TX. There were times when family, friends or associates would be working on figures with Jay and he always amazed everyone at how quickly he could compute numbers in his head; it was one of his many God given talents.

Jay had many other careers over the course of the years. He was a partner with Madisonville Service and Supply, he built and sold numerous homes as a building contractor both in Humble and Madisonville before moving to Austin, TX and going to work for the State Board of Licensing and Regulations where he met his beautiful bride to be, Corinna (Klement) Gunn.

While working at his State job he began another side business with his two brothers, David and Don Gunn, buying antique furniture at an auction house and selling it on the side of the road on weekends. Out of that endeavor it became aware to Jay the need for rental trailers to haul the furniture and from that was born the Three Gunn Trailer Rentals. The trailers were to be seen in numerous business

locations in the South Texas area and next in line was a store front for the rentals as well as a vehicle inspection station. From that he came up with a plan to include equipment rentals at that same South Austin location and eventually grew the business to include a North Austin location and Top Gunn Equipment Rentals continues to thrive today.

That is the type of hard working visionary that Jay was all of his life.

Some people would find it difficult to achieve all that Jay did in his career and still have a personal life but he was as dedicated to his family and friends if not more so.

There was in fact a thin line between family and business as many of his partners and employees became an extended part of his family over the years.

More than all of these business achievements Jay was most proud of the family he was born into and the one he was so fortunate to create when he met his wife of 24 years and they began their own family. He was an amazing, loving father to his two children, Joe and Mackenzie. His children and wife were the joys of his life and what kept him here on this earth through health struggles that most men could have never endured for such a lengthy time. And throughout his years of living with pain and limitations, he faced it every step of the way with determination and without complaint.

Jay was known by many as having a shrewd mind for business but at the same time anyone who knew him knew his great capacity for his fellow

man. He would be the first to assist anyone that needed a helping hand.

He also had a sharp wit, an endearing sense of humor and a beautiful smile that he generously shared.

Jay was a man of faith who loved his family, his friends, animals and nature. He loved to fish and always made certain he had time to spend with his family, teaching his children about fishing and hunting and any other activities they were inclined to learn and experience.

Jay will be missed by so many but he will remain in the hearts and memories of all who were fortunate enough to know and love him!

Jay was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Don Gunn and Jim Kronwinkler; brotherin-law, Will Rogers and sister-in-law, Ruth Gunn.

He is survived by his

Bingo

Sundays at 2 p.m.

Great Fun Great Food $100 Minimum Game Prize $500 Progressive Jackpot

GUNN Jay M. Gunn, 61, of Buda, TX, was called to his heavenly home on December 3, 2016 with his loving wife and children by his side after a hard fought battle with failing health for many years.

Jay was born in Houston, TX, November 11, 1955, to Joe D. and Dorothy A. (Taylor) Gunn.

From the very beginning, as their first born, he was a special gift to his parents, grandparents and extended family.

Jay was a natural born achiever and began his work career mowing the neighbor’s lawn for a silver dollar at the age of seven. Shortly after that he began working with his Dad refurbishing used bicycles for resale at a profit and hence his work ethic was established and continued for the remainder of his life.

The family moved from Houston to Madisonville, TX in the summer of 1969 and as was true to Jay’s character and personality he was the first to reach out and make lasting friendships and gainful employment. He was selfdriven to succeed beyond most others measure and somehow managed to work, participate in school sports and enjoy life while pushing himself to graduate from high school in three years by

wife, Corinna, son, Joe and daughter Mackenzie Gunn of Buda, TX; sister, Belinda (Happy) Gunn Rogers of Buda, TX; brother, David Gunn of Kyle, TX; brother, Mike Kronwinkler of Manvel, TX; brother, David Straughan and wife Cynthia of Willis, TX; sister-in-law, Wendy Gunn of Buda, TX; partner, Brandon Marrs and wife Alicia of Austin, TX and many more family and friends who will miss him dearly.

A Memorial Service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, December 17, 2016 at the Buda United Methodist Church, 310 San Antonio Street, Buda, TX 78610. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or the Wounded Warrior Project.

Texas Crossword and Sudoku sponsored by

Texas Lehigh Cement Co., LP

Santa Cruz Catholic Church,

Parish Activity Center

1100 Main Street, Buda, TX 78610 Texas Bingo License No. 17424803181

Sudoku

See Solution on 3C

See Solution on 3C

COMMUNITY

Page 3C

OBITUARIES

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

MARKS William Keith Marks “Keith”; musician, motorcycle enthusiast, mechanic, collector, and father passed away unexpectedly at his home in Kyle on Tuesday, November 29, 2016 following years of struggling with diabetes.

He was 67 years old.

Keith was born on Tuesday, April 29, 1949 in Petersburg, Virginia to Hyman and Virginia Louise (Burnley) Marks. He was an only child, moving to Austin Texas immediately following discharge from the Airforce in 1976. Keith was a musician through and through. He loved and played all types of music including Big Band, Blues, Country and Jazz.

He could play anything.

His preference was to play the Bass Guitar. Keith’s High school band played at the senior prom and he was allowed by his father to play at nightclubs after

BUDA

DRUG STORE

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

Faith Assembly of God 1030 Main St., Buda 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

Your Hometown McDonald’s

McDonald’s of Buda

15359 IH-35, Ste. B P.O. Box 1364, Buda, TX 78610 512-312-2383 Locally owned and operated

by Jimmy and Cindi Ferguson

Manchaca Baptist Church Lowden Lane & FM 1626 Immanuel Baptist Church 4000 E. FM 150, 4 miles east of Kyle Center Union Baptist Church Goforth Rd., Buda

EPISCOPAL

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

St. Elizabeth’s Episcopal Church 725 RR 967, Buda

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

St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church RR 3237 (Wimberley Rd.), Kyle

The Connection Church 1235 S. Loop 4, Buda

St. Alban’s Episcopal Church 11819 IH-35 South

Jehovah’s Witnesses South 10802 Manchaca Rd., Manchaca

Mission Fellowship Church 200 San Marcos Street, Buda

LUTHERAN Living Word Lutheran ELCA 2315 FM 967, Buda Good Shepherd Ministries FM 967, Buda

2325 FM 967 • 312-0701

St. John Lutheran, LCMS 20 N. Camino Real (State Hwy. 21), Uhland

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

New Life Christian Church 2315 FM 967, Buda Iglesia Israelita Casa de Dios 816 Green Pastures Dr., Kyle

A non-denominational church with live contemporary Christian music and life giving teaching!

Located 1 block off FM 2001 at 302 Millennium Dr., Kyle, Texas (Millennium Drive is an entrance road) Pastor Rusty Fletcher and family

Services Sun. 11:00 a.m.

Wed. 7:30 p.m.

Call or Text 512.393.4460

Visit

afountain.org for more info.

uel Baptist Church n a m Im 4000 East FM 150 (4 miles east of Kyle) (512) 268-5471

SUNDAY: Bible Study for all ages, 9:45 a.m.

Worship Service, 10:55 a.m.

Pastors: (English and Spanish) Rodney Coleman and WEDNESDAY: Bible Study, 2 p.m.

Men’s Bible Study, 7 p.m.

Family Discipleship, 7:15 p.m.

(Spanish)

God with us

Silverio Hernandez

Buda United Methodist Church San Marcos & Elm St., Buda Kyle United Methodist Church Sledge & Lockhart St., Kyle Journey United Methodist 310 San Antonio Dr., Buda

FREE DELIVERY 1ST 20 GAL. FREE

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

Friendly, Courteous Service

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.

St. John’s Presbyterian Church 12420 Hewitt Ln., Manchaca

Driftwood United Methodist Church RR 150 at County Road 170

First Presbyterian Church 410 W. Hutchison, San Marcos, TX 78666

PRESBYTERIAN

Hays Hills

CONFESSION Saturdays: 4 p.m.-5 p.m.

OFFICE HOURS Monday-Friday, 9 a.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)

Come worship with us Join our church directory by emailing paper@haysfreepress.com.

 

 

Baptist Church

Adult, teen, children’s classes • Children’s worship Professionally-staffed nursery & pre-school

COME WORSHIP WITH US! Sunday

8:30 a.m. Traditional service 9:45 a.m. Contemporary service 11:00 a.m. Blended service

Santa Cruz John Catholic Church St. Lutheran Church

1100 Main Street • Buda, Texas 78610 Office: 512-312-2520 • Fax: 512-295-2034 • santacruzcc.org Rev. Kirby D. Garner, Pastor • Fr. José Luis Comparán, Assoc. Pastor

Call 1-866-691-2369

Word of Life Christian Faith Center 400 Old Post Road, Kyle

Manchaca United Methodist Church FM 1626 & Manchaca Rd., Manchaca

Rev. Nancy Day Office 295-6981, Parsonage 512-393-9772 www.BudaUMC.org

Privately owned From local springs

A Fountain of Life Church 302 Millenium Dr. Kyle

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

*Traditional Worship (Worship Center)-9 a.m.

Sunday School (all ages)-10:00 a.m. *Informal Worship (Chapel)-11 a.m.

Wednesday Evening (Chapel)-6:30 p.m. *On 5th Sundays we conduct one service at 10 a.m. with special music.

Pure Texas Spring Water!

Vertical Chapel 801 FM 1626 (Elm Grove Elem.), Buda

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

Elm Street & San Marcos

FM 2770, Buda, Texas 295-4801

Por Tu Gracia Fellowship 701 Roland Lane, Kyle

METHODIST

Buda United Methodist Church

CENTEX MATERIALS LLC

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

CHURCH OF CHRIST

Southern Hills Church of Christ 3740 FM 967, Buda

A FOUNTAIN OF LIFE

The Well Buda

Santa Cruz Catholic Church 1100 Main Street, Buda St. Anthony Marie Claret Church 801 N. Burleson, Kyle

Antioch Community Church Old Black Colony Rd., Buda

Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses FM 2770, Kyle

Baptist Church of Driftwood 13540 FM 150 W. CATHOLIC

TEXAS LEHIGH CEMENT CO. LP

Kingdom United Christian Church 100 Madison Way, Buda

Redeeming Grace Lutheran LCMS FM 1626 & Manchaca Rd., Manchaca

NEWS • LETTERS • OBITS CALENDAR • PHOTO GALLERY CLASSIFIEDS • SUBSCRIBE

Texas Crossword, from page 2C

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

Primera Mision Bautista Mexicana Kyle

Log onto www.HaysFreePress.com

Texas Crossword Solution

JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES

Rosebrock

Veterinary Clinic

Sudoku Puzzle, from page 2C

Come worship with us ASSEMBLIES OF GOD

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

Sudoku Solution

curfew.

Keith had two daughters with whom he was very proud often sharing stories about them with his friends and neighbors. He was ornery and preferred the companionship of his dog Cammy, which was short for camshaft. He always had a dog by his side, usually a boxer or bull mastiff. Keith enjoyed working on, customizing and riding his Harley. He was a member of Texas Wheels and enjoyed his involvement with classic car clubs. He collected classic car parts, military memorabilia and classic guitars.

Keith leaves behind his daughters Virginia Marks and Mary Marks.

Please join his daughters to celebrate his life at 2 p.m. on Sunday, December 18, 2016, in the Chapel of Harrell Funeral Home 1715 Kirby in Kyle, TX. Donations may be made in memory of Keith’s life to PAWs at pawsshelter.org/ where he was a volunteer and/or to the Center for Child Protection; a child advocacy center at www. centerforchildprotection. org.

Please visit www.

Harrellfuneralhomes. com to share a fond memory, photograph, or condolence with Keith’s family on his on-line memorial site.

9:00am 10:00am 6:00pm 7:00pm

Wednesday 

www.hayshills.org 1401 N. FM 1626

of Uhland , LCMS Highway 21, Uhland

Bible Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9:15 a.m.

Church Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10:30 a.m.

Pastor: Rev. David Goeke 210-635-8584 • www.stjohnlcmsuhland.org 20 N. Camino Real (State Hwy. 21) • Uhland, Texas 78640

First Baptist Church

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

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

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

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

Nursery Provided www.firstbaptistbuda.com • fbcbuda@austin.rr.com



Bible Class Worship Worship Bible Class

  





Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) 2315 FM 967 Buda, Texas 78610 Pastor J.D. Elshoff jelshoff@earthlink.net 512-638-6312

Thursday Evening Bible Study, 6 p.m., and Open Communion on the first Sunday of every month, 6 p.m.

Make THIS your church home!

Southeast Baptist Church 5020 Turnersville Rd • Creedmoor, TX 512-243-2837

Sunday Bible Study: 9:45 a.m.

Worship: 11:00 a.m.

WEdnESday Pray & Devotion: 6:30 p.m.

FM

N

13

27

162 5

Nancie Lee Tyler, 76, of La Grange Texas, quietly passed away Sunday, November 27, 2016 under the com-passionate care of Kindred Hospice at St David’s Hospital and Rehab of Austin where she had been a patient since September 23rd.

Nancie was born on January 4, 1940, in Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania, the eldest daughter of Nelson A. “Casey” and Sara Louise “Sally” Fenner Jones.

She attended school in Catawissa, Pennsylvania until the family moved to Texas in 1954. She graduated from Kyle High School, Class of 1957.

She started her work career as a mermaid at Aquarena Springs, San Marcos, where she swam with Ralph the pig and was an assistant to P.J. Allen in Kyle decorating floats for parades. Nancie married Kenneth Doyle Tyler in October, 1959 and remained a Kyle resident until the family moved to Birmingham, Alabama in 1965. While living in Alabama, she kept her home and hearth, raised three children, became a lifelong active member

Leslie N. Young, of Kyle.

She is preceded in death by her parents and son Aaron Kyle Tyler.

A private family celebration of life will be held for those who remain to rejoice her memory.

IH-35

TYLER

of the American Baha’i Faith Community and worked for a time for Protective Life Insurance.

She returned to Texas, moving to Fayette County in 1996, where she owned and operated Paperbacks Bookstore, was an active Friend of the Library and a dedicated volunteer at 2nd Chance Emporium.

At heart, Nancie was an eccentric artist and collector known for her generosity, humor and wit.

Her homes were always open to family and friends.

She took pleasure and delight from all things beautiful, inventive and quirky, interior decorating/arts and crafts, country western music, books and magazines and good meals, especially when surrounded by those she loved.

Nancie is survived by her husband of 57 years, Kenneth Doyle Tyler, two children, Kennan Arthur Tyler and Tyanna Lee Tyler of La Grange, grandchildren, Kennan Arthur Tyler, II and Brittani Kaprice Franklin, of Bessemer, AL., Tyler Earl Frederick of Austin and Casey Red Eubanks of Hoover, AL., greatgranddaughter Nevaeh Mooney, many nephews and nieces, sisters Barbara Jones Smith and Sara Jones Bagby of La Grange and special friend and cousin

Tex

as

.4

N. Lp

Tu

rne

rsv

ille

Rd

.

45

FM

Hays Free Press • December 14, 2016

Toll

BEST BETS

COMMUNITY

Page 4C

Hays Free Press • December 14, 2016

Classes, meetings and local events can be found on the calendar at haysfreepress.com.

Email event submissions to christine@haysfreepress.com.

PHOTO BY DAVID MERINO

Buda Trail of Lights

See the spectacles of the season at this annual event at Historic Stagecoach Park Dec. 15-18, where dozens of local businesses spread holiday cheer. The trail is free and open each night from 6-10 p.m.

Cookies and Cocoa at the Courthouse

On Dec. 15 from 5:30-8 p.m., the Hays County Courthouse lawn will be home to this winter wonderland featuring a holiday movie, cookies and hot cocoa.

Santa Claus himself will be in attendance during the first hour of the event. This year’s featured movie is The Polar Express. Guests are encouraged to bring friends, blankets and plenty of cheer. The event is free and all are invited to attend. Please contact cmarler@sanmarcostx. gov for more info.

Starlight Symphony Orchestra

Celebrate the holidays with the Starlight Symphony Orchestra’s performance of “All I Really Need to Know I Learned from the Symphony Warm Cookies & Cold Milk.” The orchestra will perform 7 p.m. Dec. 16 and 17 at the Hays PAC and Dec. 18 at the Wimberley First Baptist Church.

Christmas Eve Services Celebration for Families, includes Nativity Pageant and Glow Sticks, 5 p.m.

Traditional Service, 7 p.m.

Casual Praise Service, 9 p.m.

Traditional Service, 11:30 p.m. *7, 9 and 11:30 a.m. services include Communion and Candlelight

Come celebrate with us!

Christmas Day Service In the Sanctuary, 10 a.m.

Pajamas are welcome!

New Year’s Day In the Sanctuary, 10 a.m.

ENTERTAINMENT

3200 Kyle Crossing (512) 523 9012

Experience it in

EVX

ENHANCED VIEWING EXPERIENCE

For all showtimes and listings, please check our website or call our showline!

$5 Tuesdays Any Movie.

All Day.

Excludes special events & advanced showings. EVX & 3-D upcharges still apply

New Year. Same Price.

2016 Refillable Tubs and Cups.

Only $7.50 each!

Be sure to visit our website!

EVO-ENTERTAINMENT.COM Films. Lanes. Games.

All I Really Need To Know I Learned From The Symphony

“Warm Cookies & Cold Milk” Dec. 16 and 17 Performances begin at 7 p.m.

Hays Performing Arts Center, 979 Kohlers Crossing, Kyle TX

Ring in the season in good cheer with a selection of traditional favorites, singalongs and exciting music from the Trans-Siberian Orchestra.

Great music, lasers, lights and special effects (including snow)!

Check us out on Facebook!

CISD

PERFORMING ARTS CENTER Donations appreciated. starlightsymphony.org

Section D

Business HaysFreePress.com

Hays Free Press

December 14, 2016 • Page 1D PHOTO COURTESY OF CITY OF BUDA

You can’t spell vodka without OK

Deep Eddy, Buda finalize distillery agreement

BY LOGAN MCCULLOUGH

news@haysfreepress.com

The proverbial red tape surrounding Deep Eddy Vodka’s expansion to Buda has officially been cut as an agreement for the new 194,000-square-foot distillery was finalized earlier this week.

“Everything is a go at this point,” said Buda Mayor Todd Ruge.

The city of Buda announced in September that Deep Eddy Vodka was making the move following the passage of an incentives package by the Buda City Council. Deep Eddy, which is owned by the Heaven Hills brand, a Kentucky sprits company, currently has a production facility and tasting room in Dripping Springs.

PHOTO BY MOSES LEOS III

Joined by members of the community, former city council members and city staff members, the Buda City Council in September celebrated an earlier announcement that Deep Eddy Vodka was planning to open a new facility in the city. Last week, an agreement was finalized securing Deep Eddy’s move to Buda. Shown above is the second production facility, located in a vacant warehouse on Precision Drive.

However the move was premature and the finalization of the agreement

came only late last week according to Deep Eddy officials.

“We will begin using the facility in January to store product, but pro-

duction will not begin at that facility until May,” said John Scarborough,

president of Deep Eddy Vodka.

In addition to the Buda City Council passage of incentives, the Hays County Commissioners court also had its own incentive package that was finalized at an October 18 meeting.

Ann Miller, executive director of the Buda Economic Development Corp. (EDC) thanked the court for its action and said that this move allows Deep Eddy to grow both now and for the foreseeable future, and ultimately keeps the business in Hays County.

Adrianna Cruz, president of the Greater San Marcos Partnership, shared Miller’s sentiment of appreciation of the court’s decision, citing specifics of the agreed

DEEP EDDY, 4D

Buda pauses on special permit for storage facility

BY SAMANTHA SMITH

news@haysfreepress.com

An applicant’s request for a special use permit (SUP) to construct a selfstorage facility along east Main Street in Buda was tabled earlier this month after city leaders seeks more information.

But for some city leaders, the applicant’s request to build a threestory climate controlled facility near Firecracker Drive encroaches on

another zoning code.

Chance Sparks, interim assistant city manager and director of planning, said the application went before Buda’s Planning and Zoning Commission before it came to council since the land the facility would be on would need to be rezoned from C3/ R3.

P&Z recommended that council approve the SUP on the conditions that it be a nontransferable conditional permit, that it only build the

The issue for council members, however, was three of the total seven acres available on the lot would be included in the SUP. The remaining four acres would have to be divided into various retail spaces at a later time.

3-story indoor storage facility in the plans, and that the facility remove any barbed wire fencing on the property.

on the Main Street East Commercial Subdivision has “aesthetic impacts that discourage development.”

Sparks also said the seven-acre location was at the end of Buda’s utility systems. He added it would be advantageous for the city to look into lower-impact uses for the land, and that a selfstorage facility is one of the lowest impact uses available that would still generate property taxes.

The issue for council

Sparks explained to council members that the area on the corner of Main Street and Firecracker Drive

members, however, was three of the total seven acres available on the lot would be included in the SUP. The remaining four acres would have to be divided into various retail spaces at a later time.

Buda resident and Noah’s Ark Storage employee Jim Lewis spoke in opposition to the selfstorage SUP due to the lack of necessity in the area.

“We’re (Noah’s Ark)

STORAGE WOES, 4D

Austin Ear, Nose & Throat Clinic Pediatric and adult care

www.AustinENT.com

Hearing Aid & Audiological Services • Programming • Fittings • Cleaning & Repairs • Earmolds • Custom Ear Plugs • Hearing Protection Michael Yium, MD

Ear & Hearing

• Chronic Ear Infections • Hearing and Balance Evaluation • Tinnitus (Ringing in Ears) • Dizziness & Vertigo

Nose & Sinus

• Endoscopic Sinus Surgery • In-office Balloon Sinuplasty

Mark Dammert, MD

Children’s ENT

• Ear Tube Placement • Tonsil & Adenoid Surgery

Throat, Head & Neck

• Sleep Apnea • Hoarseness/Vocal Cord Malfunction

• Immittance Testing • Comprehensive Hearing Evaluations • Otoacoustic Emission Testing (OAE)

• Assistive Listening Devices • Video Nystagmography (VNG) • Visual Reinforcement Audiometry (VRA)

Chad Whited, MD

Amber Bass, Au.D, CCC-A

Thyroid and Parathyroid • Ultrasound and Needle Biopsy • Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery

Allergy

• Testing • Allergy Shots/Drops

Two locations to serve you KYLE

LOCKHART

1180 Seton Pkwy Ste. 420 Kyle, TX 78640 512-268-5282

1005 W. San Antonio Ste. A Lockhart, TX 78644 512-444-7944

Classifieds

20 words for $8!

• Place your classified ad by calling 512-268-7862 • Email paper@haysfreepress.com • Place online at www.HaysFreePress.com.

• We accept Visa, Mastercard and Discover • DEADLINE: NOON MONDAY FOR WEDNESDAY’S PAPER

Hays Free Press

Page 2D

Employment

Misc. For Sale

ADULT EDUCATION ESL TEACHER POSITION AVAILABLE WITH COMMUNITY ACTION INC. OF CENTRAL TEXAS

MAKE UP TO $4,000 IN ONLY 13 DAYS

Make up to $4,000 in ONLY 13 DAYS managing firework stand, NO INVESTMENT REQUIRED! Dec.20 - Jan.1, mrwfireworks.com to submit app or call 830-429-1408

Visit www.communityaction. com for more information.

Applications required and available online and at 101 Uhland Rd., Ste. 107 in San Marcos. EOE. Drug Free Work Environment.

ADULT EDUCATION GED SPANISH TEACHER POSITION AVAILABLE WITH COMMUNITY ACTION INC. OF CENTRAL TEXAS Visit www.communityaction. com for more information.

Applications required and available online and at 101 Uhland Rd., Ste. 107 in San Marcos. EOE. Drug Free Work Environment.

BELLY DUMP DRIVER NEEDED

Seeking Experienced Belly Dump Driver. Class A CDL. Min 2 year exp. Steady work.

Call 512-376-4878.

$$$ Opportunity

Homes For Rent FOR SALE

1990 Ashley Buffet/Hutch Top 78” tall, 64 1/4” wide and 16 1/2” deep.

Call for appointment, Susan, 512-268-1318 or email drewsbiz@icloud.com

3G MICROCELL FOR AT&T

Works great if you have internet service wired into your home. Only $50. Like new. Paid $200. text me at 512-753-2700 or email csb@ haysfreepress.com

Employment

DIRECT CARE COUNSELORS Provide positive role modeling, structure, and supervision to adolescent boys. No exp. required, We train comprehensively. Pay starting at $10 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.

LUXURY TOWNHOMES AVAILABLE NOW

High-end features including granite kitchen countertop and tile wood-look flooring.

3 bedrooms, 2.5 bath, gameroom, two-car front entry garage. Covered patio.

Fenced backyard. Villas at Creekside. Starting at $1,695/month. 112 Lakeview Court, Kyle, TX. Texas Management & Leasing, 972-379-7368. Apply online today. www.texaspm.com

Auto For Sale 1999 VOLKSWAGEN PASSAT V6

In fair condition, leather interior, good AC, all 4 tires fairly new, good running condition. $1,300.00. Call 512-262-0484

Misc. Services LIFE ALERT

Life Alert. 24/7. One press of a button sends help FAST! Medical, Fire, Burglar. Even if you can't reach a phone!

FREE Brochure. CALL 800398-5022

IMMEDIATE OPENINGS

PARTS CLERKS - RESIDENTIAL DRIVERS FRONTLOAD DRIVERS - ROLLOFF DRIVERS HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATORS - DIESEL MECHANICS FUEL & LUBE TECHNICIAN - COMPACTOR TECHNICIAN

OTHER POSITIONS AVIALABLE

APPLY NOW!

Come join our growing company!

Visit our website for other open positions.

Competitive benefits and pay. Paid leave and holidays.

To apply, visit TexasDisposal.com/careers For inquiries, please call (512) 421-7624

TEXAS DISPOSAL SYSTEMS

Statewide Classifieds

TexSCAN Week of December 11, 2016 REAL ESTATE AGENTS

We broker Agriculture! Land and agricultural consultants, over 100 years of experience, petroleum and minerals, wildlife and ranch management, land brokerage and auctions, Ag Brokers, 1- 806-679-2645, www. agbrokersltd.com CDL A DRIVERS CDL A Drivers: Mid Central-South Regional. Run between Nebraska and Texas. Stay off both coasts!

Home weekends. 2,800 miles/ week. Be home Thanksgiving and Christmas. Fremont Contract Carriers, 1-866-641-6914 or visit www.fcc-inc.com.

SAWMILLS FOR SALE SAWMILLS from only $4397.00MAKE & SAVE MONEY with your own bandmill- Cut lumber any dimension. In stock ready to ship! FREE info/DVD: www.

NorwoodSawmills.com, 1-800578-1363, Ext.300N

SCHOOL/TRAINING AIRLINE MECHANIC TRAINING for military benefits. Financial Aid if qualified. Job placement assistance. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 1-800-475-4102 HELP WANTED E N T R Y L E V E L H E AV Y Equipment Operator Career.

Land For Sale COMMERCIAL LAND

11.8 acre commercial land on FM 2001, 6 miles east of I-35. $10,000 down, $1,351/ month, $159,000 owner financed. Call or text 512659-2069.

Hays Free Press • December 14, 2016

Donate A Boat or Car Today!

“2-Night Free Vacation!”

1- 800 - CAR - ANGE L

w w w.boatangel.com

sponsored by boat angel outreach centers

STOP CRIMES AGAINST CHILDREN

SEE YOUR AD HERE!

Advertise in the Hays Free Press classifieds. Only $8 for 20 words.

Call (512) 268-7862 or email paper@ haysfreepress.com to start advertising today.

Public Notices NOTICE OF REQUIREMENT TO COMPLY WITH THE SUBDIVISION SERVICE EXTENSION POLICY OF RUBY RANCH WATER SUPPLY CORPORATION

Pursuant to Chapter 13.2502 of the Texas Water Code, Ruby Ranch Water Supply Corporation hereby gives notice that any person who subdivides land by dividing any lot, tract, or parcel of land, within the service area of Ruby Ranch Water Supply Corporation, Certificate of Convenience and Necessity No. 12849, in Hays County, into two or more lots or sites for the purpose of sale or development, whether immediate or future, including re-subdivision of land for which a plat has been filed and recorded or requests more than two water service connections on a single contiguous tract of land must comply with the Rules and Regulations Concerning Ruby Ranch’s Service to Subdivisions (the “Subdivision Policy”) contained in Ruby Ranch Water Supply Corporation’s tariff.

Ruby Ranch Water Supply Corporation is not required to extend retail water utility service to a service applicant in a subdivision where the developer of the subdivision has failed to comply with the Subdivision Policy.

Applicable elements of the Subdivision Policy include: File a written request, with the necessary information and payment, that Ruby Ranch Water Supply Corporation perform a feasibility study to determine if there exists sufficient capacity in Ruby Ranch’s System to serve the proposed subdivision; Evaluation by Ruby Ranch Water Supply Corporation of the impact a proposed subdivision service extension will make on Ruby Ranch Water Supply Corporation’s water supply system and payment of the costs for this evaluation; Payment of reasonable costs or fees by the developer for providing water supply capacity; Payment of fees for reserving water supply capacity; Forfeiture of reserved water supply capacity for failure to pay applicable fees;

Payment of costs of any improvements to Ruby Ranch Water Supply Corporation’s system that are necessary to provide the water service; Construction according to design approved by Ruby Ranch Water Supply Corporation and dedication by the developer of water facilities and easements within the subdivision following inspection.

Ruby Ranch Water Supply Corporation’s Tariff and a map showing Ruby Ranch Water Supply Corporation’s service area may be reviewed at Ruby Ranch Water Supply Corporation’s offices, at P.O. Box 1585, Buda, Texas, 78610; the tariff and service area map also are filed of record at the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) in Austin, Texas and may be reviewed by contacting the TCEQ, c/o Water Utilities and Districts Section, Water Supply Division, P.O. Box 13087, Austin, Texas 78711.

NOTICE FOR REQUEST FOR COMPETITIVE SUBCONTRACTOR PROPOSALS

JE Dunn Construction, in association with Joe Brown Construction, is the Construction Manager at Risk for the City of Buda Municipal Complex project. JE Dunn is accepting competitive bid proposals for the Exterior Skin, Architectural Finishes, Plumbing, Mechanical, and Electrical Bid Packages for an approximately 54,000 SF new City Hall & Municipal Library and 14,000 SF new Public Safety Building. Scopes of work include, but are not limited to: Polished Concrete Floor Finishing, Unit Masonry, Stone Masonry Veneer, ColdFormed Metal Framing and Gypsum Board Assemblies, Wood Decking, Finish Carpentry, Architectural Wood Casework, Wood-Veneer Paneling, Waterproofing, Insulation, Metal Roof and Wall Panels, Wood Siding, TPO Roofing and Sheet Metal Flashing, Joint Sealants, Expansion Joint Assemblies, Hollow Metal Doors and Frames, Aluminum Frames, Flush Wood Doors, Finish Hardware, Fire-Rated Glazed Walls, Glass and Glazing, Stucco, Ceramic and Stone Tile, Acoustical Ceilings,

Resilient and Carpet Flooring, Paint, Signage, Specialties, Furnishings, Hydraulic Elevators, Fire Suppression, Plumbing, HVAC, Electrical, Communications, Electronic Safety and Security, and Landscaping/Irrigation.

JE Dunn encourages Texas certified HUB contractors to submit proposals for this project. In addition to 1st tier opportunities, we also encourage proposers to identify 2nd and 3rd tier opportunities for HUB firms. If you are a not a registered HUB contractor please make every effort to include State of Texas Certified HUB Contractors as part of your proposal.

A pre bid meeting will be held on Wednesday, December 14th, 2016 at 3:00 PM located at the existing City Council Chambers 121 Main Street in Buda, TX. Bid proposals are due by 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 5th, 2017.

Direct all requests for bid documents, inquiries, and bid proposals to austin. estimating@jedunn.com

URGENT: SEEKING ROY HAMILTON

You can contact me at michelle.smith@yahoo.com

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of James Parker Oliver a/k/a James Parker Oliver, Jr., Deceased, were issued on December 6, 2016, under 16-0369-P, pending in the County Court of Hays County, Texas, to FRANCES LAURENCE OLIVER. Claims may be presented in care of the attorney for the Estate addressed as follows: Independent Executor of the Estate of James Parker Oliver a/k/a James Parker Oliver, Jr., C/O Fleur A. Christensen Attorney for the Estate Blazier, Christensen, Browder & Virr, P.C. 901 S Mopac, Bldg. V., Suite 200 Austin, Texas 78746 All persons having claims against this Estate which is currently being administered are required to present them within the time and in the manner prescribed by law.

DATED the 6th day of December, 2016.

Fleur A. Christensen Attorney for the Estate

CITY OF BUDA Economic Development Corporation Board

HOME BUSINESS

OPPORTUNITY TO GET PAID DAILY,Great Home Business, Please call 832-225-5005 first.

Ask about $100 cash referral!

Fred 469-909-6624,fredcornell@ legalsheildassociate.com, Legalsheild,Independent Associates.

ACREAGE FOR SALE 27.33 acres south of Rockspring.Heavy oak,pinon ACREAGE FOR pine,cedar cover.Native,exotic game,feral hogs,turkey.

HEALTH $3136 down,$519/mo., MALE ENHANCEMENT+ E.D. (9.9%,30years).1-800-876-9720.

SOLUTIONS Cheaper Than Viagra or Cialis.Gain 1-3 Inches www.ranchenterprisesltd.com.

Permanently.30-Day Money Back Run Your Ad In TexSCAN! Guarantee.FREE Brochure:619- Statewide Ad ....................$550 239 Newspapers, 617,408 Circulation 294-7777www.DrJoelKaplan.com $

Hired! Bulldozers, Backhoes & Excavators. Immediate Lifetime Job Placement. VA Benefits.

1-866-362-6497

North Region Only ........ 250 69 Newspapers, 165,558 Circulation

INTERPRETERS WANTED South Region Only .......$250 Are you Bilingual?Would you 85 Newspapers, 267,744 Circulation like to earn over $35/Hour?Court West Region Only .........$250 85 Newspapers, 184,106 Circulation Interpreters are in demand in TX. To Order: Call this Newspaper Call 917-887-6741 for more direct, or call Texas Press Service at 1-800-749-4793 Today! information.

NOTICE: While most advertisers are reputable, We cannot guarantee products or services advertised. We urge readers to use caution and when in doubt, contact the Texas Attorney General at 1-800-621-0508 or the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC-HELP. The FTC web site is www.ftc.gov/bizop

The Buda Economic Development Corporation will be accepting completed Boards/ Commissions application forms from Buda Citizens interested in serving on the Buda Economic Development Corporation Board. Applications may be picked up at Buda Economic Development Corp. 203 Railroad Street, Suite 3-A, Buda, during normal business hours, Monday through Thursday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., and on Fridays from 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. or you may access the website at www.budaedc.com or City Website at www.ci.buda.tx.us to download a copy of the Boards/Commissions application.

Completed applications will be accepted through January 4, 2017.

CITY OF BUDA ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR MAIN STREET ADVISORY BOARD The Buda City Council is accepting completed Boards/Commissions application forms from the City of Buda residents interested in serving on the newly formed Main Street Advisory Board. Board members should live in the city limits or own/ operate a business in the city limits. Application forms may be picked up at City Hall, 121 S. Main St., Buda, during normal business hours, Monday through Thursday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., and on Fridays from 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. You may also access the website at www.ci.buda.tx.us to download a copy of the Boards/Commissions application and mail the application to City Secretary, P. O. Box 1380, Buda, TX 78610. Completed applications will be accepted through December 30, 2016. For additional information, contact the City Secretary at 512-312-0084.

Hays Free Press

Hays Free Press • December 14, 2016

Page 3D

Service Directory Air Conditioning

Air Conditioning

Air Conditioning

Service, LLC

$500 off complete system

Free furnace special Call for details

www.ae4cool.com • 512-312-9535

SERVICE - REPAIR - INSTALLATION

Licensed and Insured

www.AIM4AC.com • 512-312-9080

Air Conditioning

Automotive

NEMEC

Now Open in Kyle

AMM Collision Center

HEATING & AIR CHRIS NEMEC

“Proudly Serving Central Texas”

3/4 mi. north of Dairy Queen

www.APCServicePros.com

Automotive

Kyle

Call

512-295-2832

Austin

You know us... by our reputation!

Drippings Springs

Major Credit Cards Accepted

894-3888

Home Repair/Remodeling

ALL PHASES OF REMODELING

Want help selecting the best value?

Office systems not maintained?

Did your kids or employees leave your computer useless?

Landscaping

call us!

512.751.5449

visit our website! www.iLoveWoodys.com

MENTION THIS AD FOR A FREE HOUR OF DESIGN SERVICE

BUSINESS LAW/ WILLS/TRUSTS/ PROBATE/FAMILY LAW/DIVORCE/ CUSTODY/ CONSUMER LAW/ DECEPTIVE TRADE PRACTICES ACT/ PROPERTY LAW/ LANDLORD-TENANT LAW/PERSONAL INJURY/DWI/ CRIMINAL DEFENSE/ DEBT/DEFENSE/ GENERAL CIVIL LITIGATION

Attorneys and Counselors At Law

130 Hall Professional Center, Kyle, TX 78640

512-268-6425

Painting

ALEX PAINTING & DRYWALL

• INTERIOR/EXTERIOR PAINTING • ACOUSTIC CEILING TEXTURE REMOVAL • WALLPAPER REMOVAL

512-402-4704

• TAPE, FLOAT & TEXTURE • CARPENTRY & POWER WASHING • DECK STAIN & FENCES

• FULLY INSURED, FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED • EXCELLENT REFERENCES UPON REQUEST • 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEED

L ENTIA RESID ING WWW.ALEXPAINTINGAUSTIN.COM PAINT

ALC

Auto - Home - Business

Est. 1985 • License B11969

512-443-3444 lockmedic@aol.com

Plumbing

P

rince

Plumbing Company

512-470-3953

TICL #629

G&S

Serving S. Austin, Dripping Springs, Driftwood, Kyle and Buda since 1994.

FREE ESTIMATES HIGHTIDEPOOLSERVICE@YAHOO.COM HIGHTIDEPOOLSERVICE.COM

www.gspoolspa.com

Serving HayS County Residential & Commercial

• Free eStimateS • Insurance Claims Welcome

(512) 312-5050

Ron Johnson OWNER

Specializing in custom remodeling and insurance repairs since 1984.

Fully insured.

Let us make your dreams a reality!

512-965-3465

We can help with the game plan Reach thousands of potential customers for $25 a week in the Hays Free Press and Hays County Echo.

Call Tracy at 512-268-7862 or send an email to tracy@haysfreepress.com to join today.

(13 week minimum)

512-282-6224 • 512-280-0085 fax bob.jones@tri-countyconst.com

ALL AMERICAN WASTEWATER SOLUTIONS, LLC

• All types of roofing • Seamless rain gutters • Attic and wall blown insulation

O

TRI-COUNTY CONSTRUCTION

Is your business scoring with customers?

Septic Services

Roofing

Since 1991

Remodeling

One Time & Weekly Cleanings Drain & Cleans Pressure Washing Full Service Repairs HIGH TIDE Pool Replastering POOL SERVICE

512-326-4695

Company

MC • Visa

Over 10 years of experience Keith Miller, owner

Pool and Spa Service

Area Roofing

Serving Hays County since 1990

Member of the BBB

Locally serving our community since 1982.

Septic Problems... LET US HELP!

www.ALLSEPTICCHECK.com

Septic Repair & Installation Specialist Septic Tank Pumping & Servicing

Tank Lid Replacements & Tank Refurbishing

Aerobic System Servicing

Septic Inspections & Consulting

Aerobic Licensed Maintenance Provider

Fully Licensed & Insured For Your Protection

Hydrojetting & Pump Replacements

(512)

The only call you need to make

#M14369

• BBB Member • 20 yrs. Experience • Family Owned • Family Operated

312-0710

Pool Service

Pool Service

Locksmiths

• Residential Repair Specialist • Remodeling & Water Heaters • Sewer Cleaning & Replacements • Slab & Gas Leak Repair

512 312 2767

5360 Industrial Way Dr., Buda, TX berryg4129@aol.com

Service Directory

O

Woody’s Tree and Stone Landscape Installations

email us!

Woodyslawn@gmail.com

Curtis Dorsett

Locksmith

Legal Services

• Furniture Tops • Tempered Glass • Mirrors

Framed & Frameless Tub & Shower Enclosures

“No Job Too Small or Too Big”

mike@haystech.com

5-Star Service with Excellent Referrals No-Pressure Meeting with Free Estimate!

• Contract Glazing • Storefronts • Insulated Glass

O Painting O Tile O Siding O Decks O Patio Covers O Trim O Door & Window Replacement O Drywall Repair O Custom Cabinets O Electrical & Plumbing

aqwertyuioplkjhgfdsazxcvbnm

Stone Patios • Outdoor Kitchens • Trellis, Arbors, Shade Structures Paver/Brick Walkways • Drainage Solutions/Retaining Walls Metal Edging • Gardens • Tree Service and Much More!

Commercial & Residential

Remodeling

Component Selection Digital Photos System & Process Docs Website Maintenance CD/DVD Duplication

www.acomputerwerks.com

Berry Glass Company

A

Computer Systems Software Development Networking Technical Systems Maintenance

A Computer Werks

512-694-1746

Glass Service

Wild West

Consulting Setup Training Backups Upgrades

Adware Spyware Malware Installations Service Software Hardware Custom builds

Full Service Car & Truck Repair

21681 IH-35 11740 Manchaca Rd. 3990 Hwy 290

Professional Office Home and RV Service in north Hays Co.

Business, Residential or Commercial

601 S. Loop 4 • Buda

262-1013 292-1060

Computer Help

TECL 24139 TEML 3473 TACLB 015741E

Computer Service

Buda Automotive

3 Great Locations!

Residential • Commercial • After Hours Available

Email: Chris@nemecheatingandair.com O. 512-312-9081 • C. 512-789-5132 Buda, Texas 78610 • TACLA 34861C

ELECTRICAL • A/C • HEATING

FREE ESTIMATES FOR REPLACEMENTS SERVICE • SALES • INSTALLS DUCT CLEANING • LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED LICENSED, BONDED, INSURED AND REGISTERED

15%

off any repair

512-410-7739

282-3889

COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL

Septic Services

Tree Service

SELLMAN ENTERPRISES, INC.

Lees Trees

(512)

312-0002

30+ years in the Hill Country

Firewood • Pruning • Removal • Chipping Planting • Cedar Posts • Bulk Mulch

SEPTIC PUMPING • CLEANING REPAIRS • COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL

Free Assessments & Estimates • Insured

SELLMAN ENTERPRISES, INC.

Marcus Lees Affordable Oak Wilt Treatment (512) 858-4018

by TTH Inc. TDA #270421 leestrees@vownet.net (512) 921-4661

Serving the Hays Metro area, including Travis, Blanco, Bastrop, Williamson & surrounding counties.

www.SellmanSepticServices.com

Commercial & Residential

Schedule ball moss treatment for March

Window Treatments Beautiful Blinds, Shades, Draperies & Shutters Custom window treatments at affordable prices!

Graber, Hunter Douglas, Norman & more.

Low prices with lifetime guarantees and fast professional installation.

Call 512-847-8970

for free consultation & price quote.

www.MadeinTheShadeofwimberley.com

Hays Free Press

Page 4D

Hays Free Press • December 14, 2016

Deep Eddy

39th Annual

Cattleman Bull & Female Sale

Continued from pg. 1D upon incentives for the county.

“This is an important expansion and retention for Hays County,” Cruz said. “The net benefit to the county at the end of 10 years will be $878,000 and an additional $1.1 million going to the school district.”

On the piece of land that Deep Eddy will renovate stands a building that has been dormant for years. Ruge believes that once the distillery completes its improvements, the property value will increase, drastically increasing the amount of property tax

12 Noon

the city receives.

“The thing most exciting to me is the benefit to the school district,” Ruge said. “It will greatly benefit from this additional tax revenue that’s going to come out of this.”

Although original estimates called for 20 jobs, Scarborough said it is very likely that they will hire many more than 20 over the next decade.

“I would assume a lot of the initial jobs will be the current workers they have in Dripping Springs,” Ruge said. “As they expand and the operation grows, more people will be added.”

January 21, 2017

How will Deep Eddy’s facility impact Buda?

El Campo Livestock Auction El Campo, Texas For information:

$690,000 direct new tax revenue over ten years

www.cattlemansale.com

Adrian Knight Tx Lic #11102 903-452-7591

20 new jobs added over the next 10 years 40 existing jobs $12.5 to $17 million in capital investment during

Lewy Body Dementia?

Parkinson’s Disease Dementia?

Deep Eddy’s first year of operation

40% rebate on Buda property taxes on the new net value of taxable property

Suffer From Visual Hallucinations?

Been hearing or seeing things that are not actually present?

$400,000 in cash incentives $25,000 in cash incentive if the company opens a tasting room in Buda

Storage Woes

Continued from pg. 1D

Councilmember Angela Kennedy wasn’t sure if it was the council’s decision “to decide if a business is going to be successful or not.

against it at this time,” Lewis said, “We’re not against it coming in if there is a need for it, but there isn’t enough population right now to support it.”

Sparks said there is a one-mile radius around the facility where there are no other self-storage businesses.

Currently, the land is being used to store vehicles at $3,000 annual profit, whereas the self-storage facility could generate $13,000 annually.

Councilmember George Haehn was concerned that the land fell within the Interstate 35 gateway corridor.

“I do have some reservations,” Altmiller said, referencing the amount of money the city spent on that road.

Councilmember Angela Kennedy wasn’t sure if it was the council’s decision “to decide if a business is going to be successful or not.

She also wanted to ask the property owner for their motivations on the project.

While the property

The purpose of the corridor is to maintain development standards along major arterial roadways.

Sparks said it fell just outside the corridor, but that the builders have met the requirements to be within the corridor nonetheless.

Councilmember Eileen Altmiller also wanted more time to investigate the item before taking any action.

REMEMBRANCE

CLASSIC

Local family looks to share story of Pearl Harbor experience.

– Page 1C

– Page 1B

Hays Free Press ©Barton Publications, Inc.

Vol. 120 • No. 37

HaysFreePress.com

BY SAMANTHA SMITH

news@haysfreepress.com

The ugly side of local politics reared its head prior to the Dec. 13 Buda City Council Place 1 runoff election between Lee Urbanovsky and John Hatch.

While there has been a record turnout so far during early voting, some residents are concerned

PHOTO BY MOSES LEOS III

A Kyle Elementary school student received a triple dose of holiday cheer last week as Santa donned antennae bearing his likeness while inside of historic Kyle City Hall. Santa joined numerous Kyle citizens in celebrating the holidays with the annual Kyle tree lighting ceremony.

Buda council takes up Prop 1

BY SAMANTHA SMITH

news@haysfreepress.com

The Buda City council unanimously voted Tuesday to set the Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) for Propositions 1 and 2 at approximately $24 million.

With the GMP set, construction on a new municipal building site along south Main Street, which is part of Proposition 1, will begin on Jan. 18, 2017.

Brian Hallot, a representative with JE Dunn Construction, said Buda had an agreement with JE Dunn Engineering to deliver the projects to the city within a GMP

based on the construction drawings at the time of the GMP presentation.

The GMP for Proposition 1 totaled $18.7 million, while Proposition 2 had a GMP of $4,762,433.

Hallot said the city saved roughly $200,000 as the GMP for the projects were both under budget.

Hallot said this is the best arrangement for the city since the company managing construction would absorb any costs over the GMP. “The owner’s risk is limited, providing the construction documents are complete and the construction manager has made allowances,” Hallot said during his presentation.

TIMELINE OF EVENTS

• Relocation of a tree on the site of the city's new municipal building - January 18, 2017 • The structure of the new municipal building June 2017 • Buda’s new public safety building - substantially complete by October 2017 • City Hall/Library - substantially complete by April 2018

After the approval of the GMP, a more concrete schedule for the completion of Propositions 1 and 2 can be defined.

Hallot said JE Dunn had accounted for inflated construction costs, which answered a question from council member Bobby Lane.

Altmiller said the GMP would come in below the tax rate promised to voters.

“Staff has worked very closely with JE Dunn and Page and are comfortable with proceeding with the proposed GMP,” said Chance Sparks, director of planning and interim assistant city manager.

COMING UP

Buda Trail of Lights

See the spectacles of the holiday season at this annual event at Historic Stagecoach Park Dec. 9-10 and Dec. 15-18. The trail is open 6-10 p.m. nightly. Senior Citizen Night (RSVP only) will be held Dec. 8, 6-8 p.m.

– Page 1D

INDEX

New resale store opens in Kyle.

Mesothelioma may occur 30 to 60 years after exposure to asbestos. Many workers were exposed from the 1940s through the 1970s. Industrial and construction workers, along with their families (second hand exposure) are among those at risk for mesothelioma, lung cancer or gastro cancer (throat, stomach, colon).

Call us for professional insight.

EXPERIENCE

COUNTS Lawyers with more than 100 years combined expertise.

Ryan A. Krebs, M.D., J.D. Doctor-Lawyer in Full-time Law Practice

Richard A. Dodd, L.C. Timothy R. Cappolino, P.C.

Board Certified Personal Injury Trial Law and Civil Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization

NO FEE FOR FIRST VISIT

OffICes In HOustOn/COnrOe, teMple and austIn, prInCIpal OffICe In CaMerOn

1-800-460-0606 www.Asbestos Law.com

Starlight Symphony Orchestra Celebrate the holidays with the Starlight Symphony Orchestra’s performance of “All I Really Need to Know I Learned from the Symphony - Warm Cookies & Cold Milk.” The orchestra will perform 7 p.m. Dec. 16 and 17 at the Hays PAC and Dec. 18 at the Wimberley First Baptist Church.

Keep your family and friends informed all year long.

about the level of discourse online among supporters of both camps.

Private forums on Facebook such as “Informed Citizens of Buda” have been a stage for vehement posts among the Place 1 candidate supporters.

In an emailed interview with the Hays Free

BUDA RUNOFF ELECTION, 4A

Buy a subscription to the Hays Free Press and get a gift subscription of equal length for FREE through Dec. 31.

Reconstruction begins for Kyle housing board

BY MOSES LEOS III

news@haysfreepress.com

As fallout continues to settle from the Kyle Housing Authority scandal, a newly created board of directors is starting to pick up the pieces.

Five new members of the Kyle Housing Authority board were sworn in during a meeting held at Kyle

City Hall Dec. 1. The five constitute the first members appointed to the board since 2007.

Michelle Lopez, vice chair of the KHA board, said the board plans to “dig in” and begin the process of fixing the KHA. “We want to make this something that will work well for residents, and our city can be

HOUSING, 2A

Video billboards coming to Kyle?

BY LOGAN MCCULLOUGH

news@haysfreepress.com

A “wait and see” mentality is how Kyle city leaders are approaching a property owner’s application to alter the Central Texas Speedway billboard to allow onpremise, full-motion video advertising.

Kyle business and property owner Rick Coleman applied for eligibility with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) to alter the CTS billboard.

During the Kyle City Council Nov. 1 meeting, City Manager Scott Sellers presented city billboard requirements to gauge councilmembers’ opnions about having additional authority and control over the on-premise billboard requirements for displaying full-motion advertising.

Sellers called the

speedway an “asset of the city,” citing its various benefits to the town, while also calling attention to the dim state of the current billboard.

Current Kyle ordinance adopts state standards on off-premise advertising.

The TxDOT standard on billboard LED signage states that for off-premise advertising with a rotating display, images can change once every eight seconds.

There is currently one LED billboard within Kyle city limits located on the southbound Interstate 35 access road near EVO. In Kyle, with every sixth image on the LED billboard, the city can present an image of its own.

However, the CTS billboard is on Speedway’s property, which allows Coleman the right to use on-premise advertising,

That’s TWO ONE-YEAR SUBSCRIPTIONS for only $32!

Call (512) 268-7862, email paper@haysfreepress.com or mail the forms below to 113 W. Center Street, Kyle, TX 78640 to subscribe today.

Hays Free Press GOODWILL

For More Information, Please Contact Sleep Therapy and Research Center, Dr. James Andry or Sue Rafati at (210) 614-6000

Serving Buda, Kyle and Northeast Hays County, TX • 75¢

Social media gets ugly in local race

You better watch out...

owner was unavailable, architect Michael Mouldin described the applicant’s motivation.

“We have performed a feasibility study that shows there is a need for our facility in that area,” Mouldin said, “The owner wouldn’t be spending $5 or $6 million for a self-storage facility if there wasn’t a need for one there.”

Ultimately council members decided that more research needed to be done in order to make a more informed decision.

“We have a very precious commodity of limited space here to consider,” Haehn said.

You may qualify for a research study that is evaluating the safety and effectiveness of a new investigational medication that may help to reduce the symptoms of Lewy Body Dementia or Parkinson’s Disease Dementia if: • You are aged 50 - 85 years with a diagnosis of Dementia with Lewy Bodies • You suffer from visual hallucinations that occur on more days than not • Medications you take have been on a consistent dose for at least 4 weeks

Give the gift that keeps on giving.

DECEMBER 7, 2016 Lady Rebels take second at Hays CISD Classic tournament.

Kelly Conley Tx Lic #9558 903-857-2594

News …………… 1-4A Opinions …………… 3A Sports …………… 1-2B Education ……… 3-4B Community …… 1-4C

BILLBOARDS, 4A

Best Bets ………… 4C Business ………… 1D Service Directory ..... 3D Classifieds ………...2, 4D Public Notices ……2, 4D

Name__________________________________________________________ Address________________________________________________________ Zip______________________Home Phone No._________________________ Email ___________________________________________________________ o Check Enclosed o Charge credit card

Credit Card #___________________________________________________

Hays Free Press

GIFT SUBSCRIPTION Name__________________________________________________________ Address________________________________________________________ Zip______________________Home Phone No._________________________ Email ___________________________________________________________

Exp. Date _____ /_____ 3# Security Code_____Amount $______________ Signature_______________________________________________________

o Check Enclosed o Charge credit card

Credit Card #___________________________________________________ Exp. Date _____ /_____ 3# Security Code_____Amount $______________

Hays & Travis

Out of County Out of State

3 Years ____$80 ____$100 ____$155 2 Years ____$52 ____$68 ____$108 1 Year ____$32 ____$45 ____$56 Over 65? Take 10% off!

Mail check and form to the address below to begin receiving the number one newspaper serving Kyle, Buda and surrounding communities.

113 W. Center St., Kyle, TX 78640 • (512) 268-7862 • www.HaysFreePress.com

Signature_______________________________________________________

3 Years ____

2 Years ____

1 Year ____

113 W. Center St., Kyle, TX 78640 • (512) 268-7862 • www.HaysFreePress.com