December 22, 2021 Hays Free Press

DECEMBER 22, 2021 HOMES NEEDED

NEW CITY OFFICIALS

Shelters full of furry friends that need a place to call home.

Kyle and Buda have new representation on their city councils.

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DS man subpoenaed for involvement in Jan. 6 Capitol attack BY BRITTANY ANDERSON

claims about fraud in the 2020 election which later led to the Jan. 6 attacks. A Dripping Springs man Waldron, a retired U.S. was subpoenaed by the United States House Select Com- Army Colonel, is the owner of One Shot Distillery in mittee on the Jan. 6 Attack Dripping Springs. He is for his alleged involvement also the founder and CEO with the Jan. 6 Capitol riot. of OneWarrior, teaching Chairman Bennie G. self-defense courses and Thompson (D-MS) said in firearm training. a press release on Dec. 16 Waldron was apparthat the Select Committee ently in communication subpoenaed James ‘Phil’ with White House officials, Waldron for records and testimony, saying that he ap- including Mark Meadows, pears to have been involved and members of Congress, whom he briefed on election with efforts to promote

Waldron, the owner of One Shot Distillery in Dripping Springs, was apparently in communication with White House officials, including Mark Meadows, and members of Congress, whom he briefed on election fraud theories.

fraud theories. He also publicly acknowledged that he contributed to the creation of an over 30-page PowerPoint presentation that was given

to, or described for, Republican members of Congress on the eve of Jan. 6, and attended meetings in early January 2021 at the Willard

Hotel in Washington D.C to gather purported evidence of election fraud. Two days before his subpoena, on Dec. 14, Waldron gave a presentation titled “Built for Integrity: How to make Louisiana elections transparent and trustworthy” as an invited speaker at a Louisiana voting system commission meeting. Waldron’s presentation said that the electoral system in place is “vulnerable to fake voters, fake ballots and fake counts” and outlined

ways to prevent voter fraud — including only in-person, election day voting and getting rid of “black box” voting machines and relying solely on hand-counted ballots that would later be counted on a live stream. Several members of the commission questioned the practicality and accuracy of this proposed process. Thompson said in the press release that the document Waldron reportedly

JAN. 6 INVOLVEMENT, 8

PEC changes solar power rates BY BRITTANY ANDERSON

PHOTO BY TERRY CAROLL FOLEY

Hays emergency services prepares for winter’s worst STAFF REPORT Potentially severe weather events are on the minds of county staff as the Hays County Office of Emergency Services (OES) prepares for any severe weather events that may occur this winter season after the county experienced a historic snowstorm in February 2021. During the February aftermath, power and water went out for thousands of residents around the region. According

WINTER PREPAREDNESS, 8

Residents can sign up to receive emergency alerts via phone, email or text through warncentraltexas. org, or visit haysinformed. com for countywide emergency information.

PHOTO BY DAVID SWEET

Creekside Villas resident being escorted into Hays Hills Baptist Church last February when pipes froze and broke, flooding the senior living apartments.

MRS. MYERS 3RD GRADE

Mrs. Myers and Mrs. Russell’s third grade classes from Carpenter Hill Elementary thought it would be fun to be one of Santa’s Elves for the upcoming holidays, so their classes sent job cover letters to Santa in hopes of gaining seasonal employment.

Dear Santa, I would love to be an elf bedcause I am great at making stuff like robots, lights and fake electronics. Another reason is I am fast. If you need assistance from another elf. I can run very fast so you can get assistance. My last reason is I can watch children because I am sneaky, very sneaky. So I’d be a great elf on the shelf, righr? LOVE, YOUR FRIEND Brodie Dear Santa, I love elves and how is my chance. Here are 3 reasons you should hire me. Reasons 1, I am so nice. I make mean people nice. And I stand up for people. Once I was at a park and somebody was being

TEXAS HISTORY Handicap did not hold back “Three-Legged Willie”

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made fun of so I stood up for them. Next I love milk and cookies so much there is only 2 times I forgot to give you cookies. Last I love making toys. I think the nice people should have good toys. Santa please think a lot for hiring me. Love Trey Dear Santa, I think I would be a spectacular elf. First, I am very good helper like I got helping hand last ear. I also got person very nice. I don’t really like milk bot I LOVE cookies. One of the kinds I like is oreos. I love Christmas songs and I am wonderful at wrapping presents and unwrapping. If you santa need an elf, that’s me. I’m here in Texas for you. Love Noval

LETTERS TO SANTA, 4

The Hays Free Press Barton Publications, Inc. The Hays Free Press (USPS 361-430) published weekly by Barton Publications, Inc., P.O. Box 339, Buda, TX 78610. Periodicals postage paid at Buda, TX 78610 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Barton Publications, Inc., P.O. Box 339, Buda, TX 78610. ISSN#1087-9323

Solar-power users within the Pedernales Electric Cooperative (PEC) service area will soon face changes to their bill. The PEC board of directors unanimously voted during the regular meeting on Dec. 17 to approve a new solar interconnection rate called Sustainable Power Credit after an ‘over year-long public process of cost review, member input and independent studies.’ According to PEC Board President Emily Pataki, the credit will continue to provide financial incentives for members who choose to invest in rooftop solar without requiring subsidization from non-solar members. But the change to the rate did not come without pushback from PEC members, including from State Rep. Erin Zweiner, who asked during the Dec. 17 meeting that the board delay the vote or table it all together. Zwiener told the Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch that PEC uses net metering, meaning customers pay for the total net energy they use, and are credited for energy they didn’t use but was produced by their solar panel system. Under this new decision, she said, PEC will charge customers around 9 cents/kWh and pay them back (credit) 5 cents/kWh. PEC, though, said that advancements with metering and billing software systems since 2016 have enabled the coop to more accurately measure the ‘true cost’ of serving its solar members. With this new data, the PEC board of directors commissioned an independent “Value of Solar Study” and a separate independent economic analysis to determine the benefits and costs gained by the co-op from members with solar installations. But a nonprofit group, Public Citizens, that says it is fighting for a more diverse energy system, said that PEC’s “Value of Solar Study”

POWER CREDIT, 8

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Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • December 22, 2021

Furry friends need a place to call home

Merry Christmas and

Happy Holidays

BY MEGAN WEHRING

HAYS COUNTY — Many animals sit in kennels for weeks or months on end, just waiting to be taken home. “I think there is a perception that some people have that shelter animals are damaged goods,” said Christie Banduch, supervisor at the San Marcos Regional Animal Shelter (SMRAS), “or that there is something wrong with them. These animals definitely are needing homes.” Shelters are urging more people to adopt or foster to offset high animal population numbers, which can lead to euthanizing for space. “Just by housing an animal, you can save its life,” said Kristen Hassen of American Pets Alive. “One of the saddest things at any animal shelter is waking up Christmas morning and having all of those kennels be full of loving pets who wish they were in homes.” Hassen explained that about 20 years ago, 15 million animals were euthanized yearly nationwide but now, the number is down to about 1.5 million. In Texas, that number is closer to 150,000 animals each year. Both the PAWS Shelter of Central Texas (Kyle and Dripping Springs) and the SMRAS are at full capacity — an issue that has become more common year-round and not just at the holidays. “We keep those kennels moving as fast as we can,” said Melody Hilburn, executive director at PAWS. “We probably pull 10 to 12 a week, so about 80 a month.” Adoptions are overall down about 6% year-todate and owner surrender has gone up by about 15%, Hilburn said. Some of that is due to people losing their jobs amid the pandemic and being forced to make different living accommodations that may not allow for pets. “That’s heartbreaking when people come in and they are in that situation,” Hilburn said. “We try to help.

Senator Judith Zaffirini embraces two of her favorite blessings. What she works for and hopes for Asher and George is what she works for and hopes for all children.

PHOTO COURTESY OF PAWS ANIMAL SHELTER

May you and yours enjoy a blessed Christmas.

Zeke is an absolute love, according to the staff at PAWS. He will play “fetch” until he drops, will cuddle on the couch for a Lord of the Rings marathon, and will make you laugh every single day. Zeke walks well with a harness and is not leash reactive, but he needs to be the only dog in the home. Zeke is three years old and wants to find a forever home, and if there are kids in the family, so much the better.

“Just by housing an animal, you can save its life. One of the saddest things at any animal shelter is waking up Christmas morning and having all of those kennels be full of loving pets who wish they were in homes.” – Kristen Hassen of American Pets Alive

If it’s a short-term fix, we try to help them with boarding if it’s for a couple of weeks but if it’s for three or four months, we are not a boarding facility. We try to work with boarding facilities to help them out but right now, they are maxed out because of Christmas travel.” SMRAS has been running at max capacity since March and they can’t pinpoint if the COVID-19 pandemic is the direct reason as to why that’s the case. “It’s a lot of creative [thinking],” Banduch told the Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch. “We expanded the foster program to help offset what needs to be physically housed at the shelter. There’s not a cookie-cutter solution.” While the pandemic is still going on, people are facing tough times and welcoming a pet into their home could bring a little light to the darkness. “There are some folks who

have depression and some who lost loved ones this year,” Hassen said. “Pets are this immense source of joy, love and happiness. You are not just adopting a pet, you are bringing home a new best friend and family member. There are so many studies now that show the connection between pet ownership and longer, healthier and happier lives. Adoption is not a reality for everybody but there are other ways to help. “Not everybody is in a position to take home a pet permanently,” Hassen said, “and the other way is to foster a pet. Fostering over the holidays gets pets out of the shelter over the holidays and it often helps get them a home. Fostering is giving a safe place for a pet for any amount of time. Some people can only take a pet home for a few days and some people can take a pet home until it gets adopted.”

Let us celebrate the birth of our savior To all our friends and neighbors go our best wishes for this Christmas season!

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Opinion

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“February’s freeze event showed where we have a need in the community. When the power and water went out for days at a time, we saw how unprepared most of our residents were.” –Hays County Pct. 2 Commission Mark Jones. Story on page 1.

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • December 22, 2021

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Home for the holidays Guest Column by Megan Wehring

374 miles. Five hours and 51 minutes. That’s how far away I live from my parents. Now, that may not seem that far in your eyes or it could deter you from getting in the car and making the drive. As for me, I would do anything to go see my family anytime of the year. I’m especially grateful that I get to visit them for the holidays. For my husband and me, it is our first Christmas together. However, we will not be sitting together around the tree unwrapping gifts the morning of the 25th. Why? Let’s say that we learned the meaning of compromise during the first six months of marriage.

KEEPING UP WITH TRADITIONS Matching pajamas, last-minute gift shopping, singing carols on neighbors’ front steps and catching a flight home just in time and the list goes on for holiday traditions. I remember growing up, waking up every Christmas morning before everybody else at the house. Nothing has changed. I just get so giddy the eve before the big day and it’s not necessarily for the gifts under the tree. There’s just something about the environment on Christmas that is so warm and inviting that I look forward to every year. My mom and I would always make sugar cookies with icing. A lot of icing. Oh, and sprinkles too. We would have this one plate designated for Santa’s midnight snack when he would visit our house (even when we lived in a house that didn’t have a chimney). I’m guessing he came in through one of the windows. We would also always watch “White Christmas” and “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,” my dad’s favorite, when everybody was home for Christmas Eve. At some point, we would drive around town gazing at our neighbors’ light displays decked on their homes while listening to classic songs like “Let It Snow” and “O Holy Night.” Come Christmas morning, my dad would make dozens of his infamous cheesy sausage balls that we would snack on while we opened our stockings and throughout the day. Most of those traditions remain true now that we are adults. For the last couple of years, we switched up the gift exchange since all of the kids have left the nest. Now, we draw names for the main gifts while our parents still stuff our stockings with all kinds of goodies and we do the same for them.

Twas another night before Christmas

Crow’s Nest by Clint Younts

T’was the night before Christmas, when all through the store,

As I reached the dolls, I came to a sudden halt.

Pert near every shelf was bare, ain’t much left here anymore.

Surprised to see Barbie dressed as an astronaut.

We shoppers were socially distant, kept far apart,

And Ken was wearing an apron, his hair in a man-bun.

Plodding through the store, pushing our empty carts.

Wearing skinny jeans, loafers covering his toes, I’m thinking this Ken has a hankerin’ for GI Joe.

There’s a momma in her mask, papa’s still in denial, While their bratty kid ran amok down the aisle.

My eyes, how they watered. So many changes today.

When over in Houseware, there arose such a clatter.

I’m not buying this doll. No way, Jose’.

Wasn’t no big deal, just a broken platter. Away to Electronics, I scurried like a fox, Hoping to find one remaining Xbox. The flicker of the overhead neon light Gave the luster of midday to us that night. When what to my wandering eyes should appear, But a coughing shopper, my worst fear.

SAVOR YOUR TIME When we are kids, we cannot wait to grow up yet when we become adults, we wish we could just be kids again playing outside with zero worries. Why? Well, I think we take precious moments in life for granted until they slip away from us. This holiday season, I encourage you to savor the time you have with your loved ones. Maybe you could only get one day off from work and you choose to spend that with your family, make sure you dedicate that time wisely. Whatever it is, I think the years 2020 and 2021 have taught us that the cliche saying is true: “Life is short.” Go make all of the memories you can and tell your family (or maybe that special person) that you love them. Happy holidays!

A little old man, so pale and so sick, I knew in a moment, I had to be quick. More rapid than diarrhea, I shot through the store, Thinking I should get boostered once more.

My chapped lips turned to a sad, little frown. Too many Californians are living in this town. I clinched my jaw, began grinding my teeth. Smoke came outa my ears, circling my head like a wreath. I scrunched up my face and scratched an itch. Muttering “Those folks at Hasbro can kiss my grits”. I spoke no more words, headed to the check-out lane, My heart was thumping, I was going insane. Then I saw the sign hanging o’er aisle nine. I grinned after reading “Beer and Wine”.

Dang Covid! Dang Delta! Now Omicron, what’s next? I’m fully vaccinated but I’m just so perplexed.

I sprang to the beer section, flew like a missile, Finding a sale on Lone Star, I gave a loud whistle.

To the self-check counter, about to scan my gift,

To the check-out counter, smiling and standing tall,

Hoping there aren’t any germs my fingers will lift.

Knowing I’ll have a Merry Christmas after all.

Then, in a twinkling, I heard from above, “50% off all toys”. My cart I did shove.

Merry Christmas to all y’all!

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

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

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

Protect existing subdivisions

Publisher

Production Manager

Cyndy Slovak-Barton

David White

Reporters

Production Assistant

Megan Wehring

Elizabeth Garcia

Brittany Anderson Columnists Bartee Haile, Clint Younts Proofreader Jane Kirkham

Office Manager Arlene Monroe Circulation/Classifieds David White, Arlene Monroe Distribution Kimberlee Griffon

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 St., Kyle, TX 78640

CORRECTIONS

While so many have struggled through the pandemic, developers in the unincorporated areas east of IH35 have been at work pushing through plans that will impact some of the most flood prone areas and neighborhoods of low income families of color. Several hundred acres of land are being bulldozed and scraped, even though FEMA flood plain maps are not updated to align with Hays County maps which include the floods of 2015. These developments, with the blessing of Kyle, have targeted ETJ areas where plans can be pushed through with little city oversight. Hays County

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

development officials are left to do what they can when cities fail to provide thoughtful consideration of residential properties impacted adversely by these developments. One such area is the Countryridge subdivision which has been in existence for over 30 years, yet Kyle’s Master Plan refers to this area as “Transitional Settlement Community”. Residents of this subdivision and others along Hillside Terrace have asked Kyle for many years to be released from its ETJ. Kyle has refused to do so because they appear to believe it is their right to extract concessions in territory trades with Buda.

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

Between the 4000 Dacy Lane Investments, Kyle’s anemic lack of oversight of the “Mansions Buda” proposed project, The Emma Park Subdivision, and the RV park along Hillside Terrace there is no square foot of dirt which will not be overturned. During the 2015 floods, large portions of the land were flooded where Mansions Buda is being planned. Both housing and a roadway tying into Kyle’s Suffield Road Plan are proposed in an area where huge land crevices remain as testament to the 2015 event. The beeping of heavy equipment begins at dawn and runs through dusk,

LETTERS GUIDELINES

including some weekends and Sundays. In July the Hays Free Press ran a news release of Kyle’s adoption of its updated transportation plan. At the city council meeting, public comment was made regarding the planned road that will cut through and most likely require eminent domain taking of land in the Suffield Drive neighborhood along IH 35 to accomplish this plan. Development is inevitable, however, the destruction and harm to existing neighborhoods along with disregard to flooding impact to present and future inhabitants is inexcusable. Diana Woods Countryridge Subdivision

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

Page 4

OBITUARIES BIGHAM

zles, and playing cards at the Senior Citizen Center Janice Charlene (Gusin Buda. She could whip tafson) Bigham, 87, of Buda, anyone in a game of cards Texas, passed and could always finish her away after a daily crossword puzzle in no brief illness time flat. On Wednesdays at on December 3 p.m., you would find Janice 17, 2021. Jan hosting happy hour, enjoying was born her “go to” drink, a dirty May 1, 1934 martini with two olives. in Two HarJanice was a strong bors, Minnewoman of faith, a long-time sota, to Chester and Alice member of the Buda United (Anderson) Gustafson. She Methodist Church and a graduated in 1952 from Two member of the J.O.Y. Sunday Harbors High School, where School Class. She is precedshe was a band majorette ed in death by her husband, and she was known by her Kenneth, parents Chester nickname, Snoose. and Alice Gustafson, brother Janice met the love of her DD Gustafson, son Scott W. life right out of high school. Bigham, grandson Jacob Set up on a blind date, she Austin Dickens and many met Kenneth (a fly-boy other loved ones. stationed in Finland) while Carrying on her love for serving him in a soda shop life are son Larry Bigham and in Two Harbors, where both wife Elaine of San Marcos, she and her mom worked. and daughters Tammy They married on March Bush and husband Jimmy 14, 1953, starting their lives of Chappell Hill, Texas, and together living on 5th Avenue Bobbi Julien and husband in the apartment above her Thad of Fishers, Indiana. Her mom’s house. They lived the legacy will continue to live on military life for almost 28 through her 9 grandchildren years, living in many locaand 8 great-grandchildren. tions such as Pyote, Texas, Visitation will be held at the Philippines, Ft. Walton the Buda United Methodist Beach, Florida, Austin/ Church at 302 Elm Street, Bergstrom AFB and retiring Buda, TX at 9 a.m. on in Buda. They were blessed Thursday, Dec. 23, followed with four children and were by a service at 10 a.m., married 64 years. She was with Pastor Lisa Straus proud of her country and her officiating. A small reception service as a military wife. will be held in Jan’s honor Jan and Ken showed a zest immediately following the for life and spent considerfuneral service at the church. able time traveling together To view the live stream of in their RV. Janice also loved the service, you can access spending time with her this link: https://www. family and friends, watching youtube.com/channel/UClTexas Longhorn Football, jH1lUglXMS7qbmi6kYCQ the San Antonio Spurs, line Interment will be held at dancing, crossword puznoon following the reception

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • December 22, 2021

Santa Letters at Cook-Walden Forest Oaks Memorial Park, in Austin. You can view a memorial video or leave a condolence to the Bigham family at www. harrellfuneralhomes.com. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Buda United Methodist Church at P.O. Box 1196, Buda, Texas 78610.

RAMIREZ Kevin Antonio “Kevenchi” Ramirez, age 24, of Kyle, Texas, passed away on December 11, 2021 in Buda, Texas. Kevin was born in Los Angeles, California, to Briseida Torres and Manuel Ramirez on May 10, 1997. Kevin went to high school at Lehman High School in Kyle, and graduated in 2016. He worked as assistant manager at Discount Tire in Kyle for six years. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, hanging out with his friends, smoking BBQ and cooking, Kevin is survived by his parents, Briseida Torres and Manuel Ramirez; brothers, Manuel Ramirez Jr. And Ethan Ramirez of Kyle. Visitation was held Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021 at Harrell Funeral Home of Kyle (1715 Kirby, Kyle, TX 78640) with funeral prayers and rosary, led by Deacon Rey Garza. Services will be held in California on Dec. 26 – 27, 2021, with burial in Pierce Brothers Valhalla Memorial Park, 10621 N. Victory Blvd., North Hollywood, California.

Continued from pg. 1

Dear Santa, I have always wanted to be an elf for a long time now. I will help you do anything you want. I love to wrap presents but dono know how to but I am willing to learn. I love Christmas music. I can get the speakers nice and loud for the other elves. I can make Christmas cookies for you ande the other elves. Santa if you do no hire me it is okY. One more thing to saye is I love to spread Christmas Cheer!!! Love, Ristan Brockavich Dear Santa, I Think I will be great for the job so hire me and my friends to be elves. I want to bring joy to the world and make sure fore everyone to have fun. I like to be nice to help others and share. I like chocolate milk and eating cookies. And everyone wants to be on the nice list for Christmas. So I’ll help you do your work. Santa I’ll also help you deliver presents and joy all over the world. So I’ll tell you if people are nice or bad for Christmas and help people to feel warm and fuzzy. So can you please hire me to be an elf. Love MJ

MRS. RUSSELL 3RD GRADE Dear Santa, I heard you were hiring elves. I really wanna be a elf so I can make cookies with a side of milk. I would be great for the job because I love reindeer and bells. I love the sound of bells and I wanna feel a reindeer. I want this job because I love making people happy with a drawing of them. I always wanted to go to the North Pole how is it like? So you can see why I should have this job. I am a amazing baker. I love making people happy. I wanna

go to the North Pole. I am a perfect elf. Love, Ava P.S. I love cookies and milk too.

And what’s you middle name? I hope to hear from you soon Love Goldie. P.S.. do we get breaks? Love Goldie Dear Santa, I am looking for a job because I am good at making details! One reason I would be great for the job is I want money fo buy precents for my family. I want this job because I love elves and I can play with my elves. Santa for Christmas I want a horse more than anything. I also want to feed the raindeer. I hope to hear from you soon. love Taylor

Dear Santa, I heard you were hiring elves. I think because I am tall so I can sit toys of the top of the shelf. I rezin I would be good at this job because I love animals so I can feed the reindeer. Rezin b3 I would be good at this job because I can bed kids. Rezin 4 I would be good at this job because I will love the reindeer. I hope to hear from you soon. Love, Jerrod Dear Santa, I am looking for a job at the North Pole because I am earring money/allowance to buy stuff for my mom. One reason I would be great tor the job is because I would love to help bake stuff like banana bread, super hero muffins, pear bread and chocolate muffins. I want this job because I think I am good at helping like holding the door open at home and watching food cook. So much stuff. Was I being good this year? I hope to hear from you soon. I really, really, really, really want the job. Thank-you. Love, Noah

Dear Santa, i am looking for a job…making cookies can you hire me so i can make you cookies? One reason i would be great for the job… i am great at making cookies. My favorite cookies to make are chocolate chip. I deserve this job because i have been really GOOD> how i have been REALLY GOOD is I helped my mom make cookies.I can’t wat to meet Mrs. Claus. I h ope tp hear from you soon. . .because I really want this job. From Iris to Santa. Dear Santa, I would like to half to take care of a reindeer. I would like to help clean your sled. I would like to help your elves do the toys, I would like to help you deliver the toys for the kids. Cani I please have this job because I am responsible Santa. From Israel.

Dear Santa, Please consider giving me a job…with the reindeer. One reason I want the job is because I love deer. I would be great at this job because I’m good with animals. Oh…also what’s your favorite cookie?!

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

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Sudoku Solution

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ASSEMBLIES OF GOD

CHURCH OF CHRIST

NON-DENOMINATIONAL

Faith Assembly of God 1030 Main St., Buda

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

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

BAPTIST

Southern Hills Church of Christ 3740 FM 967, Buda

The Connection Church 1235 S. Loop 4, Buda

EPISCOPAL

Antioch Community Church Old Black Colony Rd., Buda

First Baptist Church-Buda 104 San Marcos St., Buda First Baptist Church-Kyle 300 W. Center St., Kyle Hays Hills Baptist Church 1401 FM 1626, Buda Sledge Chapel Missionary Baptist Church 709 Sewell, Kyle

Southeast Baptist Church 5020 Turnersville Rd., Creedmoor Manchaca Baptist Church Lowden Lane & FM 1626 Immanuel Baptist Church 4000 E. FM 150, 4 miles east of Kyle

Sudoku Puzzle, from page 8

Center Union Baptist Church Goforth Rd., Buda Primera Mision Bautista Mexicana Kyle

Texas Crossword Solution

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

Texas Crossword, from page 8

St. Elizabeth’s Episcopal Church 725 RR 967, Buda St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church RR 3237 (Wimberley Rd.), Kyle St. Alban’s Episcopal Church 11819 IH-35 South JEHOVAH’S WITNESSES Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses FM 2770, Kyle Jehovah’s Witnesses South 10802 Manchaca Rd., Manchaca LUTHERAN Living Word Lutheran ELCA 2315 FM 967, Buda Redeeming Grace Lutheran LCMS FM 1626 & Manchaca Rd., Manchaca Resurrection Church, CLBA 401 FM 967, Buda St. John Lutheran Church 9865 Camino Real, Uhland The Well Buda Buda United Methodist Church San Marcos & Elm St., Buda

Mission Fellowship Church 200 San Marcos Street, Buda

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

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

Friendly, Courteous Service

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

Call 1-866-691-2369

Word of Life Christian Faith Center 118 Trademark Drive, Buda

BUDA

Por Tu Gracia Fellowship 701 Roland Lane, Kyle

DRUG STORE

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

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

Journey United Methodist 216 Kirkham Circle, Kyle

CHRISTIAN

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

New Life Christian Church 2315 FM 967, Buda

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

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

Iglesia Israelita Casa de Dios 816 Green Pastures Dr., Kyle

Driftwood United Methodist Church RR 150 at County Road 170

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

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

First Baptist Church

A loving & caring Southern Baptist Church 104 S. San Marcos Street, Buda Buddy Johnson, Pastor • 295-2161 Sunday School...........................................9:30 a.m. Morning Worship....................................10:45 a.m. Wednesday Bible Study/Youth Activities...6:00 p.m. AWANA’s (Wednesday)..........................6:00 p.m.

www.hayshills.org 1401 N. FM 1626

Pure Texas

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

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

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

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

Kingdom United Christian Church 100 Madison Way, Buda

Kyle United Methodist Church Sledge & Lockhart St., Kyle

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

Hays Free Press

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

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

Baptist Church

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

METHODIST

Hays Hills

TEXAS LEHIGH CEMENT CO. LP

Nursery Provided

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

Your Hometown McDonald’s

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

512-312-2383

Locally owned and operated by Jimmy and Cindi Ferguson

Sunset Canyon Baptist Church 8:45 AM

Sunday Morning

11:00 AM

Sunday Worship

5:45 PM

Wednesday Meal

6:30 PM

Wed TouchPoint SCBC Preschool Children Ministries Youth Ministries Family Ministries

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

(512) 894-0480

4000 E. HWY 290

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • December 22, 2021

Page 5

Handicap did not hold back “Three-Legged Willie” On Dec. 27, 1859, Texans laid to rest “Three-Legged Willie,” one of the most colorful and unforgettable figures of the revolutionary period. Robert McAlpin Williamson enjoyed perfect health until the age of 15, when he contracted something people in those days called the “white swelling.” He spent the next two years in bed battling the potentially fatal ailment, which spared his life but robbed him of the use of his right leg. The muscles of the afflicted limb shriveled below the knee and drew back at an odd angle. Rather than amputate the withered calf, the youth strapped it to his thigh and walked on a wooden leg. Not long after his recovery, Williamson became involved in an impassioned love triangle. He killed his rival in a duel only to learn the fickle female had eloped with a third suitor. Deciding a change of scenery might heal his broken heart, he left his native Georgia and headed west. Williamson picked provincial Texas as the place to put down new roots. In 1826 he joined Stephen F. Austin’s settlement at San Felipe and took an active role in the pioneer commu-

Texas History by Bartee Haile

nity. In sharp contrast to the majority of Anglo-American immigrants, Williamson made no attempt to disguise his contempt for their hosts. He constantly challenged the right of the Mexican government to tell the colonists what to do in even the most trivial matters and gained a reputation as a troublemaker among his more conciliatory neighbors. As the years passed and dissatisfaction with the status quo intensified, Williamson emerged as a fearless advocate of independence. When push came to shove at Anahuac in June 1835, he was in the thick of the tense confrontation that climaxed in the eviction of the government garrison. Not surprisingly his name was right below Buck Travis’ on the list of dangerous hotheads the so-called “peace party” secretly supplied the Mexican military. With the agitators out of the way, the champions of compromise hoped to mend the fences

damaged by their recent activities. Williamson managed to evade arrest until early October, when the Battle of Gonzales signaled the start of the Texas Revolution. In November he attended The Consultation, where 58 delegates debated the course the struggle should take. Along with John A. Wharton, Williamson lobbied long and hard for an immediate and unqualified declaration of independence. But their militant resolution fell far short of adoption, attracting a mere 15 votes. A watered-down statement of principles, which did not close the door to negotiations with the Mexicans, passed with the support of 33 delegates. The irresistible force of events ultimately transformed the most reluctant colonists into revolutionaries. Although he could have excused himself from the final battle because of his bad leg, Williamson rode with the cavalry at San Jacinto. Eight months later, the Republic Congress elected him judge of the third district of liberated Texas. He traveled alone from town to village dispensing justice and resolving disputes. The reception was not

always warm for the circuit-riding jurist. Sensing the hostility in a clannish community, he placed a handgun and a rifle on the table and announced, “Hear ye! Hear ye! Court for the third district is now in session or somebody is going to get killed!” Williamson once interrupted a tipsy lawyer to inquire, “Where is the law to support your contention?” “There’s the law,” answered the stewed smart aleck whipping out a knife. The unruffled judge pulled his pistol and calmly countered, “And there’s the Constitution.” Williamson gave up the gavel in 1840 to campaign for the Washington County seat in the Lone Star congress. He served four terms in the house and one in the senate before the curtain came down on the Republic. According to the 1861 edition of the Texas Almanac, Williamson was an incomparable public speaker. “When fully aroused, there was a fire and vigor in his speech that surpass all description.” Annexation was the issue of the 1840s that fully aroused the gifted orator, whose persuasive appeals changed hundreds of

skeptical minds. So committed was Williamson to the cause, he named a son Annexus. Sadly there was no place for “Three-Legged Willie” in the new state. A congressional bid ended in disappointing defeat in 1849 as did a race for lieutenant governor two years later. Mentally impaired by a serious

illness, he lost the will to live after the death of his wife in 1858 and followed her to the grave the next year.

Bartee welcomes your comments and questions at barteehaile@gmail.com or P.O. Box 130011, Spring, TX 77393 and invites you to visit his web site barteehaile. com.

Debbie Thames Insurance Agency

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

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Page 6

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • December 22, 2021

Classifieds PUBLIC NOTICES CITY OF NIEDERWALD

On January 3, 2022, at 7:35 p.m. in the City Council Chambers of the City of Niederwald, Texas, located at 8807 Niederwald Strasse Road, Niederwald, Texas, the City Council will hold a public hearing giving all interested persons the right to appear and be heard on the proposed annexation by the City of Niederwald, Texas, of approximately 3.18 acres, as petitioned by the property owners, said property being located at 9001 Niederwald Strasse. The proposed use of the property is a meat market with fuel islands. If you have any questions regarding this annexation, contact Niederwald City Hall at 512-398-6338.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of JETTIE MARIE WEEDEN were issued on December 14, 2021, under Docket No. 21-0451-P, pending in the County Court of Hays County, Texas to STEVE DEWAYNE WEEDEN. Claims may be presented in care of the attorney for the Estate addressed as follows: Estate of JETTIE MARIE WEEDEN

c/o Jonathan S. Connor Blazier, Christensen, Browder & Virr, P.C. 3410 Far West Blvd., Suite 385 Austin, Texas 78731 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 this 15th day of December, 2021. Blazier, Christensen, Browder & Virr, P.C. /Jonathan S. Connor/ Jonathan S. Connor Attorney for the Estate

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary for the Estate of Guadalupe F. Flores, Deceased, were issued on December 15, 2021, in Cause No. 21-0320-P, sitting in matters probate of Hays County, Texas, to: Yolanda D. Flores. All persons having claims against this Estate which is currently being administered are required to present them to the undersigned within the time and in the manner prescribed by law. Estate of Guadalupe F. Flores c/o Yolanda D. Flores

Notice of Public Hearing Board of Adjustment Public Given Notice to all interested persons, that: Notice is hereby Notice of Public Hearing

of Adjustment The City Board of Kyle shall hold a public hearing on a request by Chase Kohhloff of Lennar Homes for a variNOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS, THAT: ance to allow encroachment into the front setback per Sec. 1 a&public Ord.hearing No. on 915 The City53-33 of KyleChart shall hold a of the City of Kyle request by Chase Kohhloff of Lennar Homeslocated for a zoning code, for the property at 111 Silver Glen variance to allow encroachment into the front Drive,perKyle, TXChart 78640 (BOA-21-0009). setback Sec. 53-33 1 & Ord. No. 915 of

1830 Mathias Ln. Kyle, Texas 78640 DATED December 16, 2021. Respectfully submitted, THE GARZA LAW FIRM, PLLC 326 North LBJ Dr., Ste. 164 San Marcos, Texas 78666 (512) 667-7324 Ana Marilín "Mari" Garza State Bar No. 24084385 mari@marigarzalaw.com Attorney for Yolanda D. Flores

trail system. The Planning and Zoning Commission may recommend, and the City Council may consider acting on the stated amendments. A public hearing will be held by the Planning and Zoning Commission on Tuesday, January 11, 2021 at 6:30 P.M. A public hearing will be held by the Kyle City Council on Tuesday, January 18, 2021 at P.M. NOTICE IS HEREBY7:00 GIVEN Kyle City Hall TO CouncilALL Chambers INTERESTED THAT: NOTICE OF PERSONS, 100 W Center St., PUBLIC HEARING Kyle, Texas Notice is hereby Given to all Planning Dept. hearing The City of Kyle shall hold a public interested persons, that: (512) 262-3959 The City of Kyle shallby holdSean Ratterree, on a request ofDecember CTC Publication Date: a public hearing to amend 22, 2021 to rezone Residential LLC (Z-21-0091) Chapter 53 (Zoning) of the City ofapproximately Kyle, Code of Ordinances. 15.542 acres of NOTICE land toOF‘PUD The following sections will be MXD’ for property located at 5839 Kyle PUBLIC HEARING considered: Sec. 53-33(n)(4) Parking, Sec. 53-892 Districts is hereby Given to all Parkway, in Hays County,Notice Texas. and Boundaries, adding Sec. interested persons, that: 53-900, and amending Exhibit The City of Kyle shall hold A,The Plum Planning Creek Planned UnitZoning a public hearing to amend and Commission may Development, Art. II, Section Chapter 41 (Subdivisions) and the ofCity 1,recommend, for the purpose of adding the CityCouncil of Kyle, Codemay of requirements city-wide Ordinances. The following consider,for the assigning any zoning district

Public Notice Notice of Public Hearing

which is equivalent or more restrictive. Notice of Public Hearing

ANotice public hearing be held is hereby Given to will all interested persons,by that:the Planning andshallZoning Commission on The City of Kyle hold a public hearing on a Tuesday, January 11, 2022 6:30 P.M. request by Sean Ratterree, of CTCatResidential LLC (Z-21-0091) to rezone approximately 15.542 acres of to ‘PUD MXD’ for property located at 5839 Kyle Aland public hearing will be held by the Kyle Parkway, in Hays County, Texas.

City Council on Tuesday, January 18, 2022 The Planning and Zoning Commission may recomatmend, 7:00and P.M. the City Council may consider, assigning any zoning district which is equivalent or more restric-

tive. meeting will take place at 100 W. The Center Kyle, Texas 78640; Spectrum A publicStreet, hearing will be held by the Planning and Zoning Commission on Tuesday, January 11, 2022 at 10; https://www.cityofkyle.com/kyletv/

sections will be considered: by the Planning and Zoning Sec. 41-1 Definitions (Municipal Commission on Tuesday, JanuUtility Easement); Sec. 41-137 ary 11, 2021 at 6:30 P.M. Streets, Sec. 41-139 – CrossA public hearing will be held walks, Sec. 41-143 Sidewalks by the Kyle City Council on & Sec. 41-146 Streetlights, Tuesday, January 18, 2021 at for the purpose of adding 7:00 P.M. requirements for the city-wide Kyle City Hall Council trail system. Chambers The Planning and Zoning 100 W Center St., Kyle, Commission may recommend, Texas and the City Council may Planning Dept. (512) 262Public Notice consider acting on the stated 3959 amendments.Notice of Public Publication Date: December Hearing A public hearing will be held 22, 2021

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS, THAT:

LEGAL NOTICE

The City of Kyle shall hold a public hearing Application has been on a request by made the with City the ofTexas Kyle, Alcoholic Beverage Commission for a Mixed (Z-21-0092) to rezone approximately 45.5 Beverage Permit with Food and Beverage acres of land from ‘RS’ to ‘PUD’ (RS – 19 Certificate (MB/FB) by Ayla Holdings LLC acres, MXD – 26.5 acres) for property located at 20139 IH-35, in Hays County, d/b/a Ilario’s Italian Cuisine to be located at Texas. 5401 FM 1626, Suite 810, Kyle, Hays County, Texas 78640. Owner: Andrew C. Venezie. The Planning and Zoning Commission may recommend, and the City Council may consider, assigning any zoning district Notice of Public Hearing which is equivalent or more restrictive. Notice is hereby Given to all interested persons, that:

The public City of Kyle shall holdwill a public a the A hearing behearing held onby request by the City of Kyle, (Z-21-0092) to rezone Planning and Zoning Commission on approximately 45.5 acres of land from ‘RS’ to ‘PUD’ Tuesday, January 2022 atfor 6:30 P.M.located (RS – 19 acres, MXD 11, – 26.5 acres) property at 20139 IH-35, in Hays County, Texas.

A will be held may by recomthe Kyle Thepublic Planninghearing and Zoning Commission mend, Council and the City may consider, City onCouncil Tuesday, Januaryassigning 18, 2022 any7:00 zoning district which is equivalent or more restricat P.M. tive.

kyle-10-live

A public hearing will will be held place by the Planning and This meeting take at 100 W. Zoning Commission on Tuesday, January 11, 2022 at Center 6:30 P.M.Street, Kyle, Texas 78640; Spectrum 10; https://www.cityofkyle.com/kyletv/

All interested persons are encouraged to attend the opinions on the

Owner: SCC Kyle Partners, LTD The meeting will take place at 100 W. Center Street, Agent: Sean Ratterree, CTC Residential Kyle, Texas 78640; Spectrum 10; https://www.cityLLC ofkyle.com/kyletv/kyle-10-live 713-569-4818 Owner: SCC Kyle Partners, LTD

Owner: Village 10; Investment, LLC Kyle, TexasSunrise 78640; Spectrum https://www.cityofkyle.com/kyletv/kyle-10-live Agent: Will Atkinson, City of Kyle 512-233-1144 Owner: Sunrise Village Investment, LLC

This is planned as meeting a hybrid taking place This is planned as a hybrid takingmeeting place At W. Center Street, Kyle, Texas 78640. At100100 W. Center Street, Kyle, Texas 78640. https://www.cityofkyle.com/kyletv/kyle-10-live

713-569-4818 Publication Date: December 22, 2021 Z-21-0091 Publication Date: December 22, 2021

the City of Kyle zoning code, for the property located at 111 Silver Glen Drive, TX 78640 The public hearing willKyle, be held by (BOA-21-0009).

the Board of Adjustment on Wednesday, January 12, 2022, at 6:30 The public hearing willinformation, be held by the Board of contact the Planning P.M. For more please Adjustment on Wednesday, January 12, 2022, at Department at 512-262-1010. 6:30 P.M. For more information, please contact the Planning Department at 512-262-1010.

All interested personshearing are encouraged attend the their virtual public andtoexpress virtual public hearing and express their opinions variance on the variancerequest. request.

https://www.cityofkyle.com/kyletv/kyle-10-live

6:30 P.M.

A public hearing will be held by the Kyle City Council on Tuesday, January 18, 2022 at 7:00 P.M.

Agent: Sean Ratterree, CTC Residential LLC Z-21-0091

A public hearing will be held by the Kyle City Council

kyle-10-live on Tuesday, January 18, 2022 at 7:00 P.M.

This meeting will take place at 100 W. Center Street,

Agent: Will Atkinson, City of Kyle

512-233-1144 Publication Date: December 22, 2021 Publication Date: December 22, 2021 Z-21-0092 Z-21-0092

The Texas Crossword and Sudoku Puzzle For all the latest news in Hays County, visit...

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See solutions on page 5

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • December 22, 2021

Page 7

Classifieds PUBLIC NOTICES Notice of Public Hearing Board of Adjustment Public Notice Notice is hereby Given to all interested persons, that: Notice of Public Hearing

of Adjustment The City Board of Kyle shall hold a public hearing on a request byISJeff Brubaker of Perry Homes for a variance to NOTICE HEREBY GIVEN TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS, THAT: allow encroachment into the side lot setback per Exhibit D of Blanco River Ranch & DeThe Citythe of Kyle shall hold a public hearingDe-Annexation on a request by Jeff Brubaker of Perryfor Homes for a velopment Agreement, the property located at 273 variance to allow encroachment into the side lot Painted CreekD Way, Kyle,River TXRanch 78640 (BOA-21-0008). setback per Exhibit of the Blanco De-Annexation & Development Agreement, for the property located at 273 will Paintedbe Creek The public hearing heldWay, by Kyle, TX 78640 (BOA-21-0008).

the Board of Adjustment on Wednesday, January 12, 2022, at 6:30 The public hearing willinformation, be held by the Board of contact the Planning P.M. For more please Adjustment on Wednesday, January 12, 2022, at Department at 512-262-1010. 6:30 P.M. For more information, please contact the Planning Department at 512-262-1010.

All interested persons are encouraged to attend the their opinions on the

All interested persons hearing are encouraged attend the virtual public andtoexpress virtual public hearing and express their opinions variance request. on the variance request.

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

NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO NOTICE TO CREDITORS FILE A PLAT FOR DRIFTWOOD Notice is hereby given that original Letters Testamentary GOLF AND RANCH CLUB, PHASE ONE BLOCK C, LOT 1 for the Estate of Ann Denice

An application for the Driftwood Golf & Ranch Club Ph 1, Block C, Lot 1 Replat is being filed with Hays County. The Replat proposes to shift the private road and provide a lot for the greeter house. The Replat will result in 1 greeter house lot, 1 private street lot and 1 drainage easement and public utility easement lot on 7.411 acres. The subdivision is located on the northeast corner of the intersection with FM 967 and Driftwood Golf Club Drive and will be accessed from Driftwood Golf Club Drive. Water and wastewater service will be provided by the City of Dripping Springs. North Hays County Fire Rescue will provide fire services. ESD #1 will provide EMS services. Pedernales Electric Cooperative Inc. will provide electric service. Spectrum Communications will provide telephone service. A copy of the location map and plat are available for review at Murfee Engineering Company, Inc., 1101 S Capital of TX Hwy., Bldg. D-110, Austin, TX 78746.

NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO FILE A PLAT FOR DRIFTWOOD SUBDIVISION, PHASE FOUR FINAL PLAT

Public Notice

Notice of Public Hearing

N O T I C E I S H E R E B Y G I V E N TO A L L INTERESTED PERSONS, THAT: The City of Notice Kyle,ofTexas, proposes to initiate Public Hearing annexation proceedings at the request of FM Road Notice is hereby Given to all interested persons, that: 812, LLC to extend the boundary of said city to The City approximately of Kyle, Texas, proposes initiate annexation include 102.16 to acres of land located proceedings at the request of FM Road 812, LLC to at the north corner of SH-21 & E FM 150. extend the boundary of said city to include approximately 102.16 acres of land located at the north corner A public hearing will be held by the Kyle City of SH-21 & E FM 150.

Council on Tuesday, January 4, 2022 at 7:00 A public hearing be held the KyleChambers, City Council P.M. in the Kylewill City Hallby Council 100 on Tuesday, January 4, 2022 7:00 P.M. ininterested the Kyle City W. Center St., 78640, foratall persons in Hall Council Chambers, 100 W. Center St., 78640, for the proposed annexation. At said time and place all persons interested in the proposed annexation. At all have the right appear and saidsuch time persons and placeshall all such persons shall to have the right be heard. Of all said matters and things, all persons to appear and be heard. Of all said matters and things, interested in the inthings and herein all persons interested the things andmatters matters herein mentioned, willtake takenotice. notice. mentioned, will Published on December 22, 2021

Published on December 22, 2021

Public Notice

Notice of Public Hearing

N O T I C E I S H E R E B Y G I V E N TO A L L INTERESTED PERSONS, THAT: The City of Kyle, Texas, proposes to initiate Notice of Public Hearing annexation proceedings at the request of Blanco River Ranch Properties, LP to extend the boundary Notice is hereby Given to all interested persons, that: of said city to include approximately 201.377 acres The City of Kyle, Texas, proposes to initiate annexation of land located at request 1899 Six CreeksRiver Blvd, Kyle,PropTX. proceedings at the of Blanco Ranch erties, LP to extend the boundary of said city to include

A public hearing willacres be ofheld the at Kyle approximately 201.377 landby located 1899City Six CreeksonBlvd, Kyle, TX. Council Tuesday, January 4, 2022 at 7:00 P.M. in the Kylewill City Council Chambers, 100 A public hearing be Hall held by the Kyle City Council W. Center St., 78640, for all persons interested on Tuesday, January 4, 2022 at 7:00 P.M. in the Kyle in the annexation. At W. saidCenter timeSt., and78640, place Cityproposed Hall Council Chambers, 100 for such all persons interested in thethe proposed all persons shall have right annexation. to appear and At heard. said time all such persons shall all have the be Ofand all place said matters and things, persons right to appear be heard. all saidmatters matters and interested inandthe thingsOf and herein things, all persons interested in the things and matters mentioned, will take herein mentioned, will notice. take notice. Published on 22,22, 2021 Published onDecember December 2021

An application for Driftwood Subdivision, Phase 4 Final Plat is being filed with Hays County. Driftwood Subdivision, Phase 4 Final Plat proposes 9 single family lots on 5.8096 acres. The subdivision is located north of the intersection of Thurman Roberts Way and FM 1826 and accessed from Thurman Roberts Way. Water and wastewater service will be provided by the City of Dripping Springs. North Hays County Fire Rescue will provide fire services. ESD #1 will provide EMS services. Pedernales Electric Cooperative Inc. will provide electric service. Spectrum Communications will provide telephone service. A copy of the location map and plat are available for review at Murfee Engineering Company, Inc., 1101 S Capital of TX Hwy., Bldg. D-110, Austin, TX 78746.

CITATION BY PUBLICATION

To all persons interested in the Estate of JOSEPH PAUL POLIVKA III, A.K.A. JAY POLIVKA Deceased, Cause No. 21-0482-P, in the County Court at Law, Hays County, Texas. The alleged heir(s) at law in the above-numbered and entitled estate filed an APPLICATION FOR DETERMINATION OF HEIRSHIP AND ISSUANCE OF LETTERS OF INDEPENDENT ADMINISTRATION in this estate on the 18th day of November, 2021, requesting that the Court determine who are the heirs and only heirs of Joseph Paul Polivka III, A.KA. Jay Polivka, Deceased, and their respective shares and interests in such estate. The Court may act on this Application at any call of the docket on or after 10:00 A.M., on the first Monday next after the expiration of ten (10) days, exclusive of the day of Publication, from the date this citation is published, at the Hays County Government Center in San Marcos, Texas. All persons interested in this case are cited to appear before this Honorable Court by filing a written contest or answer to this Application should they desire to do so. To ensure its consideration, you or your attorney must file any objection, intervention, or response in writing with the County Clerk of Hays County, Texas on or before the above noted date and time. Applicant's Attorney: Gabriel G. Gallas 1403 West 6th Street Austin, TX 78703 (512) 981-7606 Given under my hand and the seal of said Court at the office of the Hays County Clerk in San Marcos, Texas on this the 9th day of December, 2021. Elaine H. Cardenas County Clerk, Hays County, Texas 712 S. Stagecoach Trail, Suite 2008 San Marcos, Texas 78666 By Diana Wall, Deputy

NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO SUBDIVIDE

An application has been submitted with HAYS COUNTY to subdivide 15.885 acres of property located along FM 2001, Buda, TX 78610. Information regarding the application may be obtained from Hays County Development Services (512) 393-2150. Tracking number: PLN-1712-NP.

Bergin, Deceased, were issued on December 15, 2021, in Cause No. 21-0478-P, pending in the County Court at Law No. ONE, Hays County, Texas, to: Christopher Brian Kreutner. All persons having claims against this Estate which is currently being administered are required to present them to the undersigned within the time and in the manner prescribed by law. c/o: John Hall Attorney at Law P.O. Box 1614 Kyle, TX 78640 DATED the 15th day of December, 2021. e/s John Hall John Hall Attorney for Christopher Brian Kreutner State Bar No.: 08759880 P.O. Box 1614 Kyle, TX 78640 Telephone: (512) 268-6425 Facsimile: (512) 268-5404 E-mail: johnhall@lawyer.com

NOTICE FOR REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS

Sealed Qualifications will be received by the City of Buda Finance Department until 2:00 p.m. January 28, 2022, for “RFQ 22-005 – Bond Program Management Services”. The Request for Qualifications may be obtained from the Purchasing Manager at the Buda Municipal Building, 405 E. Loop St., Buda, Texas 78610, at https://ci.buda.tx.us/ purchasing, and through www. texasbidsystem.com. The City intends to select one or more qualified Consultants to perform bond program management services related to the City of Buda’s $89.66 million 2021 bond package. The approved bond includes $73.57 million for Proposition A – Transportation and $16.09

million for Proposition B – Parks and Recreation. Qualified Consultants may submit conforming statements of qualifications for Proposition A, Proposition B, or a combined statement of qualifications for both Propositions A and B. The selected Consultant shall provide bond program management duties and responsibilities to include general coordination and management, design consultant management and oversight, manage communications, and bond financial management and oversight. The selected bond program manager will provide routine reports and updates to the City Council, City Manager, City Staff, and to a resident Bond Oversight Committee. ADDRESS AND MARK ENVELOPE: “RFQ 22-005 Bond Program Management Services” TO: Purchasing, City of Buda, 405 E. Loop St., Buda, Texas 78610. TO BE OPENED: 2:00 p.m. January 28, 2022.

NOTICE OF APPLICATION TO SUBDIVIDE

An application has been submitted with HAYS COUNTY to subdivide 0.885 acres of property located at 750 FM 2001, Buda, Tx 78610. Information regarding this application may be obtained from Hays County Development Services (512) 393-2150. Tracking number: PLN-1854NP

NOTICE OF SALE OF REAL PROPERTY STATE OF TEXAS COUNTY OF HAYS CAUSE: 20-1647

By virtue of an Order of Sale issued by the clerk of the 274th District Court of HAYS County, Texas, October 14, 2021, in cause numbered 20-1647, styled POST OAK ONE HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC. versus Fernandez, Freddie

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and Fernandez, Melissa M. on a judgment rendered against Fernandez, Freddie and Fernandez, Melissa M. ; I did on November 30, 2021,at 2:30 p.m., levy upon as the property of Fernandez, Freddie and Fernandez, Melissa M. the following described real property: Lot 19, Block W, of Post Oak Subdivision, Phase 2, A Subdivision in Hays County, Texas, according to the map or plat of record in Volume 12, Page 138 of the Plat Records of Hays County, Texas more commonly known as 267 Atlantis, Kyle, TX 78640 (“Property”) On January 4, 2022, being the first Tuesday of the month, between the hours of 10:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M., beginning at 10:00 a.m., at the Hays County, at the South Door, 712 Stagecoach Trail of the Courthouse of the said County, in the City of San Marcos, Texas, I will sell for cash to the highest bidder, all the right, title and interest of Fernandez, Freddie and Fernandez, Melissa M. in and to the real property described above. Dated at Kyle, Hays County, Texas, November 29, 2021. Michael Torres Constable, Pct. 2 Hays County, Texas 5458 FM 2770 Kyle, Texas 78640 by Patrick Chasse, Deputy Notice to Bidders: You are buying whatever interest, if any, the Debtor has in the property. Purchase of the Debtor's interest in the property may not extinguish any liens or security interests held by other persons. There are no warranties, express or implied, regarding the property being sold, including but not limited to warranties of title, merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. Notice to Judgment Debtor: If there is any property, real or personal, you want to point out for levy in lieu of the above described property, you must contact this office immediately.

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Page 8

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch • December 22, 2021

New city council members take seats in Kyle, Buda BY BRITTANY ANDERSON

Kyle and Buda officially have a new city council member each. Following the Dec. 7 runoff election, Daniela C. Parsley won with 553 votes for the Kyle City Council District 5 seat, beating incumbent Mayor Pro-Tem Rick Koch. LaVonia Horne-Williams won with 437 votes for Buda At-Large Position 3, beating Emily Jones.

PARSLEY

HORNEWILLIAMS

The results come from 1,747, or 4.65%, of registered

Hays County voters. Following the general election on Nov. 2, a runoff election was called as no candidate met the Majority Vote Requirement of 50% plus one vote. When the runoff was called, Koch had 643 votes while Parsley had 489. Horne-Williams still led with 635 votes over Jones’ 439. Parsley, who was sworn in during a special city council meeting on Dec. 16, told the

Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch that she believes the city will ‘win’ when citizens are engaged and informed — a huge benefit of her campaign and ability to connect with residents as a city councilor. “I am thrilled to be representing my fellow Kyle residents,” Parsley said. “I look forward to listening to the citizens’ concerns and helping in any way that I can. I know that I am new at

this and I have a lot to learn, but I will undertake this endeavor with an open mind and a willingness to truly listen to the wants and needs of all Kyle residents and learn from the experience of my fellow council members.” Horne-Williams told the Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch that her time campaigning and eventual victory has taught her the “value of perseverance and determination.”

“This experience has been a huge undertaking of time, dedication and hardwork,” Horne-Williams said. “A sweet friend said to me after the campaign, ‘We have to know the sadness of defeat to understand the humbleness of winning.’ I’m looking forward to continuing to have face-to-face conversations with Buda citizens, and to provide accountability and transparency in our community.”

Kelly Higgins to run for Hays County District Attorney WIMBERLEY — Kelly Higgins, a defense attorney who has worked in Hays County since 2002, has filed as the sole Democratic candidate for Hays County Criminal District Attorney. Higgins attended Southern Methodist University, graduating in 1999 with a B.A. in History, and the University of Texas School of Law, receiving his J.D. in 2002. He resides in Wimberley.

tinue working there regardless of the outcome of this election. My experience in Hays County courts HIGGINS includes well over a thousand cases, with scores of hearings and dozens of jury trials, always insisting on the fairness SUBMITTED REPORT guaranteed by our ConstituBY CANDIDATE tion and laws. From a zealous Since 2002, I’ve worked in new lawyer two decades ago, the Hays County courts in the I have matured into a serious, field of criminal defense. This thoughtful, and effective lawhas brought me very close to yer by maintaining integrity the District Attorney’s Office, and candor in our courts. My devotion to Constiand to the attorneys and staff tutional principles and my working in that office, for respect for our courts are well almost twenty years. I know known in our courtrooms. the courthouse, its history, This combination of respect, and its people. I belong in our courthouse, and I’ll con- familiarity, and experience

makes me uniquely qualified to undertake the task of righting the ship of the District Attorney’s Office in Hays County. The problems faced by the next DA come from two sources. First, the population growth in our county has outstripped our criminal justice infrastructure. We are not a county of little towns any more. Our courts are logjammed with cases awaiting resolution. The pandemic has frustrated efforts to improve an already untenable docket of cases. Second, our current District Attorney has, over the last eight years, failed to provide leadership that addresses that growth. The resources are there. Our courts are excellent. It’s leadership that’s lacking. My first goal, without which nothing else can change, is for the office to

become an example of legal, ethical, and Constitutional integrity. I am talking about real devotion to law and order as written and intended. I am talking about being honest inside the courtroom and out. Through this, all the necessary changes are within reach. Reform through Integrity. Those goals include the establishment of a Mental Health Court, reform of pre-trial intervention agreements, and increased efforts to prevent DWI. I will use Restorative Justice to achieve healing and redress beyond the courtroom. I will work with the sheriff and courts to alleviate overcrowding in our jail, and to provide resources to our police. All this and more are part of the overall goal of making Hays County a safe and sensible place for all residents, officers, and

visitors. to see them enjoy what they I am proud of our beautiful deserve: law, order, integrity, county and its people. I want and safety.

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Power Credit Continued from pg. 1

was conducted hastily over the last couple of months. District 4 PEC member Kathi Thomas said that by not allowing input from members, the study went wrong from the start, and that its findings are out of line with most other value-of-solar studies conducted around the U.S. However, according to the study’s calculations as presented by PEC, the co-op had not been recovering the full cost incurred for serving solar members, thus resulting in PEC’s non-solar members subsidizing solar members — that number is currently at $1.3 million, but PEC said the subsidy would have likely reached $13 to $20 million in additional costs to non-solar members over the next decade. Currently, about 6,100 PEC members have solar installations, making up 1.7% of the co-op’s total members.

The new credit is 5.377 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh). PEC said that this rate is designed to pay solar members for their excess power at the ‘market value of power.’ Under the new rate, solar members will be “compensated by more than 30% of what PEC pays for average wholesale electricity.” PEC said that the new interconnection rate will not affect a member’s use of the solar energy produced at their home — it only impacts the credit they will receive for energy that flows back onto the PEC distribution system. Thomas told the Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch that while in some cases, this change may not mean a great deal of money in a customer’s bill, it does represent a longer payout for solar panels, and will go a long way to suppress or even kill the solar business in PEC’s territory. According to a news re-

lease from Public Citizen, the rate change will detract from ongoing efforts to improve grid reliability. Additionally, it would make solar a more expensive option, as it would cost customers more for energy they receive from PEC than the energy they return to the utility. Those who work outside the home would be most disadvantaged because they may not immediately use all the energy they are producing. When voting on the item, board members asked no questions of members or staff. “It’s frustrating to see a decision like this come at a time when solar is taking off,” Zwiener said. “I remain committed to getting stronger state incentives to help people invest in distributed solar. But this PEC decision will dramatically slow the deployment of these useful and practical technologies, and

Waldron must produce requested documents by Jan. 10, 2022 and appear for a deposition on Jan. 17, 2022. The subpoena sent to Waldron and the press release can be found at january6th. house.gov. More to the story will follow as information becomes available.

Winter Preparedness Continued from pg. 1

to OES Director Mike Jones, many people were without food and water for several days, and temperatures were below freezing. While emergency plans were in place, Jones said treacherous driving conditions made it difficult to get to county residents. “Despite having food and water to distribute, it was a challenge to attempt to drive anywhere for the first two days after the major snow fell,” Jones said. “For more remote parts of the county, it was near impossible to get to anyone in a quick time frame.” As the winter season approaches, OES is once again stocking up on resources such as water and shelf-stable food, as well as coordinating with community organizations for shelters and warming stations, should they be needed.

Jones said one of his main goals for OES is to build a more resilient community where individuals can take care of themselves and their neighbors, should an event occur. “February’s freeze event showed where we have a need in the community,” Jones said. “When the power and water went out for days at a time, we saw how unprepared most of our residents were.” Jones said that having a minimum of one gallon of water per person each day is critical, and added that alternate sources for cooking and heating food should be considered, whether it’s an outdoor grill, a propane burner or something else that is safe to use. Home generators are also popular now, but Jones cautioned about using them

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comply with the law and provide records and testimony as the Select Committee continues its work to get answers for the American people about Jan. 6 … and help ensure nothing like that day ever happens again.” Per the subpoena,

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Jan. 6 Involvement provided to Administration officials and members of Congress is an “alarming blueprint for overturning a nationwide election.” “The Select Committee needs to hear from him about all these activities,” Thompson said in the press release. “We expect him to

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properly and never using them inside a home. He said running a vehicle in a garage should be avoided due to carbon monoxide poisoning. Officials have been sharing winter preparedness tips to urge residents to make plans in the event of an emergency such as a winter storm or power outage. Tips for creating a family emergency communication plan is among the recent public education messages. Residents can sign up to receive emergency alerts via phone, email or text through warncentraltexas.org, or visit haysinformed.com for countywide emergency information and emergency preparedness tips, as well as the Hays County official Facebook page and OES Facebook page for updates and information during an emergency.

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