Feb. 16, 2017 News-Dispatch

Tigers wrestle for district championship

Community supports fight against MS

Pig Pen BBQ anchors food truck park

page 4

page 3

page 7

News-Dispatch Volume XXXVII No. 19

Serving Western Hays County, Texas since 1982

75¢

Thursday, February 16, 2017

Man held in wife’s murder

BY MOSES LEOS III

News-Dispatch Editor

PHOTO COURTESY OF MARISA VICKERY

Students and staff at Walnut Springs Elementary school pose for a photo that resembles the Texas Flag, which was captured by a drone owned by the campus. Marisa Vickery, who is the campus’ facilitator of learning and innovation, was honored with an award for her efforts to incorporate 21st century technology into lessons for students.

Flying high

Dripping Springs educator takes learning into 21st century

BY MOSES LEOS III

News-Dispatch Editor

As an educator who’s been in the business for 18 years, Marisa Vickery understands how challenging it can be to keep students engaged in the classroom.

“When you’re in charge of

LAGNIAPPE Blood Drive

Lend a helping arm at the blood drive inside the Compass Church at the corner of Hamilton Pool Road and Ranch Road 12 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Make an appointment online at weareblood.org and use group code C553.

Donors are asked to eat a full meal beforehand and bring a photo ID.

Scholarship opportunity

The Dripping Springs Women’s Club will award two $500 college scholarships for female students in May. Applications are due by April 10 and can be

LAGNIAPPE, 8

teaching a class of 22 to 25 students how to do one task or one skill, you have to work magic to reach everyone of those children to where they can understand and retain information,” Vickery said.

Through the Center for Learning and Innovation (CLI) at Walnut Springs Elementary, Vickery, who is the school’s

facilitator of learning and innovation, has successfully incorporated technology to better help her students.

Earlier this month, Vickery was awarded the Texas Computer Education Association’s 2017 High Impact Teacher of the Year award for her efforts.

During the last four years, Vickery has transformed the

school’s library into the CLI, which features a MakerSpace, production studio, 3D printers and robotics, according to a district release.

She also has introduced coding to the school, along with providing technology training at the campus.

DRONES, 3

ESD 1 signs new contract with current service provider STAFF REPORT The North Hays County Emergency Service District No. 1 has moved forward with a new contract with its current emergency service provider.

Earlier this month, the San Marcos Hays County EMS signed a new service contract with ESD 1, which was the culmination of a year-long process to “assess the needs of the district and develop a new cost effective, performance-based contract,” according to a press release.

“It is very exciting for us because we feel this is a significant step forward for the district and resulting service

NET PAYMENT

CURRENT THISNET PERIOD TAX PAYMENT RATE THIS PERIOD

What’s the difference?

The cost for the first six months of the contract, the balance of the current fiscal year, is $515,026, a reduction from the current level by 6.4%. The subsidy increases each succeeding year by 2.9%.

to our citizens,” Walt Krudop, president of the ESD 1 board of directors, said in an emailed response.

The effort to develop the new contract for EMS services for ESD 1 began in

% CHANGE FEB. 2016 TO FEB. 2017

2017 % CHANGE PAYMENTS FROM TO DATE 2016 TO 2017

Buda 1.50%

$564,710.62

-2.03%

$1,045,308.17 +3.53%

$189,512.53

+1.52%

$350,602.41

$746,924.33

+3.37%

$1,283,215.45 +6.89%

+8.22%

$6,084.40

Dripping Springs 1.25%

+4.55%

Kyle 1.50%

Niederwald 1.00%

$3,253.72

+20.71%

San Marcos 1.50%

$3,085,177.75 -3.48%

$5,423,281.61 -1.41%

$18,855.26

+38.19%

$32,694.72

+28.08%

$100,713.63

+0.82%

$168,963.20

+2.46%

+22.70%

$8,038.00

+10.29%

$3,217,252.30

+0.43%

Uhland 1.50%

Wimberley 1.00%

Woodcreek 1.00%

$4,446.62

Hays County $1,814,513.40 -0.84%

December 2015. According to the release, the ESD began discussions with Emergency Service Consulting International (ESCI) to provide structure and resources to develop a process to include a request for proposals (RFP), analysis of the proposals and ultimate structuring of the contract.

According to the release, the purpose of engaging ESCI was to incorporate in the contract the most “upto-date concepts in state-ofthe-art EMS services to the District.”

ESCI also helped develop the RFP and to process

ESD 1, 2

Slight rise in sales tax revenue Dripping Springs saw a moderate rise in sales tax payments from February 2016 to February 2017, according the state sales tax figures. Dripping Springs has received over $350,000 to date, which is a 4% rise from 2016 figures. Meanwhile, sales tax revenue in Wimberley rose by less than 1% in the same timeframe and county revenue rose less than half a percent.

A Wimberley man has been charged with first-degree murder after confessing to authorities that he had killed his wife at their home Thursday evening.

Jimmy Lee Rhodes, 68, was booked into the Hays County Jail RHODES early Friday and was charged with first degree murder, according to a Hays County Sheriff’s Office

MURDER, 8

Bill makes way for rainwater catchment incentives

BY MOSES LEOS III

News-Dispatch Editor

Possible legislation filed by a local state representative could pave the way for potential tax abatements for those who install rainwater catchment systems.

Jason Isaac (R-Dripping Springs) this month filed House Bill 1334, which calls for a local option exemption from property taxes for a “portion” of appraised property that’s attributable to installation of a rainwater harvesting system.

The bill aims to offset the potential increase in property value when a person or business installs a rainwater catchment system on their property.

Isaac said it “increases the property tax burden” and estimated that rainwater systems could add $10,000 to $20,000 to a property owner’s valuation.

He added there’s a catch-22 for many counties, including Hays, which promote conservation.

“They would like for homeowners to be able to be exempt from that evaluation to promote conservation and reduce the property tax burden,” Isaac said.

The popularity of rainwater catchment systems is growing, particularly with private residences and schools, Issac said. He also said developers go to him to amend utility districts to allow residents to potentially install rainwater catchment systems.

Isaac said homes in Wimberley and Dripping Springs use rainwater catchment systems for their entire homes.

“Some people don’t want to be dependent on municipal run water systems, they don’t want to be dependent on water companies,” Isaac said. “It comes right out of the sky. That’s what they exist on and it’s amazing. I’d

LEGISLATION, 8

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News-Dispatch

Opinion

NewsDispatch PHONE: 512-268-7862 FAX: 512-268-0262 PUBLISHER Cyndy Slovak-Barton csb@haysfreepress.com EDITOR Moses Leos III moses@haysfreepress.com REPORTER Samantha Smith news@haysfreepress.com PRODUCTION David White Christine Thorpe ADVERTISING/MARKETING Tracy Mack tracy@haysfreepress.com Pam Patino ads@haysnewsdispatch.com Jim Darby ads@haysfreepress.com PHOTOGRAPHERS Wayland Clark PROOFREADER Jane Kirkham CIRCULATION MANAGER/ LEGAL NOTICES David White paper@ haysnewsdispatch.com News-Dispatch (USPS 011 - 401) is published weekly except for the weeks following July 4 and Christmas by Barton Publications, Inc., 113 W. Center St., Kyle, TX 78640.

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Thursday, February 16, 2017

In remembrance of Bowling Green

S

ome folks ask me where I come up with ideas for this here column. I tell ’em that usually some weird thought pops up like a baby’s poot in her bath water. Sometimes I see something in the news that sparks an interest. There have been times in the past where I simply can’t think of anything to comment on, but thanks to millions of registered voters, there is now a plethora of material coming out of our nation’s capital that keeps me up at night until I fire up my PC. Now, I don’t go around looking for a thunder pot to stir up, but when I hear some outrageous statement from the mouth of some politician, I can’t help myself to spread the word. I reckon I will upset some folks out there who just can’t find underwear that fit, but let me assure you that I poke fun at anyone who says or does something stupid. If you read my last column, you saw me poking fun at men in general, including yours truly. Hey, if you can’t

Before we get started, let’s take a moment of silence for those souls lost in the Bowling Green Massacre. I want to personally give kudos to Kellyanne Conway on getting the scoop on this tragedy well ahead of CNN and the rest of the media.

From the Crow’s Nest by Clint Younts

laugh at yourself, then you are one sad sack.

Let’s start off with our beloved president speaking recently without checking the facts first.

Now, I haven’t taken a class in American History since 1976, but I do recall that Frederick Douglass was a social reformer and abolitionist back in the late 1800s. Mr. Trump spoke of this man in the

present tense when he said, “Frederick Douglass is an example of somebody who has done an amazing job and is being recognized more and more, I notice.”

I refuse to relentlessly bash the guy like a lot of folks do, but you’ve got to wonder about Trump’s overall intelligence. Instead of releasing his tax returns, I’d like to see his high school report cards.

I bet his GPA dropped a bit during Black History Month. And if Trump believes Douglass is still living, he probably didn’t do so hot in math either.

Okay, let’s see what

other alternative facts plopped at our feet during interviews with some big wigs out in D.C. Before we get started, let’s take a moment of silence for those souls lost in the Bowling Green Massacre. I want to personally give kudos to Kellyanne Conway on getting the scoop on this tragedy well ahead of CNN and the rest of the media.

Um, while we are on the subject, am I spelling Bowling Green right because I can’t find anything about this massacre on Wikipedia and I’m not on speaking terms with Siri?

Perhaps, our president and Ms. Conway weren’t the best students at Trump University, and they just misspoke. Not everyone is smart enough to make it to Final Jeopardy. Some folks lack sufficient gray matter to store actual facts and know what’s real and what’s not. Now, I am sure that we won’t hear anything stupid coming from our new Secretary of Education, right?

Whoa! Hold your horses! Ms. Betsy DeVos com-

mented during her Senate confirmation hearing that we need guns in schools to protect the kids from grizzly bears. Dang it, CNN! Why didn’t you inform your viewers about all the bears mauling children in public schools? How long have these vicious attacks been going on? I’m glad we have a watchdog in the Department of Education looking after the welfare of our students.

Okay, how many folks have I ticked off? Probably fewer than those who got a chuckle out of this. Again, let me emphasize that I don’t take jabs at people just because of their political affiliation. I don’t lean to the left or right, although some nights after treating my arthritis, I tend to sway both ways. And being a farm boy like I am, I do believe in spreading out the manure.

times divided into zones to realistically optimize response.

The new contract provides improved monitoring and reporting of patient care and outcome and financial performance with monthly and annual reporting.

SMHCEMS’s new contract also will have quarterly reviews of expenses, revenues and the budget in order to view any financial trends.

“In the past, significant increases in the annual contract cost has caused funding and tax rate problems for the District, the new contract calls for advanced warning of any increases above 4%

of the current contract,” according to the release.

Joint strategic planning

by SMHCEMS, while being done informally in the past, is now formalized in the new contract.

According to the release, the cost to ESD 1 is “affordable” over the term of the contract and is less than the current cost.

Long term issues such as the projected growth in the district with attendant increase in EMS service and capital equipment along with ambulance and crew housing have not been addressed and will be the next focus for the District.

Clint Younts’ cattle spread plenty of manure in the pastures around the Crow’s Nest. crowsnest78610@gmail.com

ESD 1: Signs new contract with current provider Continued from pg. 1

the proposals that the District did not internally have. ESCI had just completed the Master Plan for the District and was intimately familiar with the challenges and needs of the District.

In January 2016, a contact was signed with ESCI and work began developing the framework for the contract requirements that would form the basis for the RFP. With ESCI, a number of community and related agencies were interviewed and the elements of the contract were formulated.

“It was a clear objective from the early stages of the process that the District wanted to transition from a service level contract to a performance-based contract,” according to the release.

The RFP was published in July and the district received three bids, which included the North Hays County Fire Rescue, SMHCEMS and Acadian Ambulance Service.

According to the release, the North Hays

“In the past, significant increases in the annual contract cost has caused funding and tax rate problems for the District, the new contract calls for advanced warning of any increases above 4% of the current contract.”

– North Hays County Emergency Service District No. 1 press release

County Fire/Rescue Department was not financially affordable.

Bids from Acadian and SMHCEMS were within the district’s budget.

After a vetting process, the board selected SMHC EMS for the new contract in October.

Specific elements and performance requirements of the contact were negotiated with SMHC EMS. The new contract provides “sufficient resources” in ambulances and staff to assure the “highest level of advanced life support care within a definitive response time at a reasonable, compet-

itive cost,” according to the release.

One of the most significant aspects of the new contract is the emphasis on performance with tracking of patient outcome statistics, patient care and call response

Thursday, February 16, 2017

www.HaysNewsDispatch.com

Page 3

Community comes together to support fight against MS SUBMITTED REPORT

K

irk Smith knows the local music scene – the musicians, the venues, the good times. He and wife Laurie can often be found enjoying the sounds at Hudson’s on Mercer and Mercer Street Dancehall. But the sounds of the music are fading for Kirk as Multiple Sclerosis (MS) continues to claim more and more of his abilities and enjoyment in life.

After trying one treatment after another over decades to slow his hearing loss, balance problems, and relieve his intense nerve and muscle pain, Kirk had nearly given up hope of reclaiming his life from the debilitating disease.

But when his son Derek was diagnosed with MS

PHOTO COURTESY OF NATIONAL AUDOBON SOCIETY

Thankfully, bird hats fell out of fashion by the early 20th century.

Prized feathers are a blessing and a curse

BY JERRY HALL

News-Dispatch Contributor

F

eathers make a bird.

Indeed, without feathers, a bird could not fly and would be exposed to the vagaries of weather, both hot and cold.

But feathers can also get a bird in trouble.

Especially when they are prized by humans. The ancient Hawaiians killed birds by the hundreds to make feathered capes for their island royalty.

During the 1890s, a single egret plume was worth twice its weight in gold.

The millinery trade created a demand for feathers to decorate stylish hats

and according to some estimates, about 200 million birds a year were killed for their feathers.

Fortunately, this practice was outlawed and groups like the new Audubon Society helped make it unpopular to wear bird parts on one’s head.

Until the practice was finally halted, killing birds for their plumes not only resulted in bird deaths, but some human game wardens were also shot and killed by feather hunters.

Today, the great egret is still admired for its beautiful plumes, but thankfully there is little risk of its winding up part of a hat.

HELP KIRK SOAR AGAIN: A MUSIC FEST TO BENEFIT HIS FIGHT AGAINST MS

Join friends of Kirk Smithfor an afternoon of music and food to raise funds for his medical treatment on Feb. 19 from 12-5 p.m. at Hudson’s on Mercer to raise funds for Kirk to undergo Expanded Stem Cell Treatment for his MS

at age 23, Kirk knew he had to keep fighting – for Derek, as well as for himself.

Hope did come from friends who had recently undergone Expanded Stem Cell Therapy in Panama and were experiencing significant gains in their own struggles with MS. After thoroughly researching the successful and promising cutting-edge therapy (not currently available in this country) Kirk and Laurie became determined that Kirk should have that chance at recovery. The only

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obstacle was the $25,000 cost. (The experimental treatment is not covered by health insurance).

Enter the music community in Dripping Springs, who have stepped forward to help their friend and longtime supporter. Chad and Natasha Hudson, owners of Hudson’s on Mercer, will donate their venue and their musical talents for a huge fundraiser, Help Kirk Soar Again, on Feb. 19 from noon until 5 p.m.

The Kyle Sisters, Alex Dormont, The Hill Country Ramblers,

Micah Wagner, Braydon Zink, Bob Slaughter and Laughing Waters, and The Mercernaries have all volunteered to create an afternoon filled with some the highest-caliber music in the Central Texas area.

Mi Ranchito Barbeque will serve lunch. A Silent Auction has gathered amazing offerings, among them a Circle Y Flex Lite Trail Saddle.

T-shirts for the fundraising campaign will be on sale.

A crowdfunding campaign has been launched in Kirk’s name at YouCaring.com, or donations may be sent directly to Kirk at PO Box 225, Dripping Springs, TX 78620. For more information on Kirk , Expanded Stem Cell Therapy or the fundraiser, visit the Help Kirk Soar Again Facebook page.

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Wimberley: 512-847-5549 or 512-847-9325 Dripping Springs: 512-858-4608

Drones: Flying high in Drip’ Continued from pg. 1

Vickery said incorporating Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM) can “reach students that may not otherwise be inspirited to learn and progress in school.”

“For me as a teacher and as a parent, it’s so important to give options and just to let students try different things and be exposed to different things and hopefully, something will click,” Vickery said.

There are currently 46 classes that Vickery works with at the campus, with interested teachers asking to partner with the CLI for a lesson. Vickery said it’s not a requirement for teachers to do so.

One of the more popular aspects of the CLI is the use of drone technology.

Origins of the drone program began roughly three years ago when Vickery “fought hard” to get more girls on a Teach Team she was organizing.

Daniel Baldwin, a software programmer, drone enthusiast and a parent of a student, approached Vickery to provide assistance.

They started by 3D printing a drone, which was followed by soldering and wiring the craft.

After six weeks, the class built a quad copter and flew it. However, the 3D drone was limited as it wasn’t strong enough to hold a camera while flying.

Over time, however, the cost of drones began to decrease. Through the help of parents, funds were raised to buy a $700 Phantom drone roughly two years ago.

At the same time, Baldwin wrote a program called “Drone Blocks” and allowed Walnut Springs students to beta test it.

The program allows students to use drag and

drop coding to design a formula and create a mission, based on the lesson they’re working on, Vickery said. Lessons range from geometry lessons to determining wind speeds to even art projects.

“It was so neat for me to see how the whole process goes,” Vickery said. “We gave (Baldwin) feedback on what was working, what we loved about it … and even ideas for coding blocks.”

Since then, Vickery has continued to incorporate the drone into various aspects of teachers’ lesson plans. The Dripping Springs Education Foundation provided grant money toward an updated $1,200 drone.

Attending the TCEA awards ceremony was “pretty incredible” to be with the “best of the best” and people who have “devoted their lives” to bring technology to the classroom, Vickery said.

In March, Vickery and Baldwin were selected to co-present their drone program at the South by Southwest (SXSW) education festival in Austin. The presentation will allow the two to share what worked, but also share mistakes during the process.

In addition, Vickery said she plans to share how they were able to fundraise for the program, as well as teach their students safety when using drones, which is a key component.

But for Vickery, the chance to see the lightbulb pop on for a student during a lesson is paramount.

“It’s a reminder that those of us who are educators, that’s what we do it. We don’t do it for the money. We care for the children and making the lightbulb go on,” Vickery said.

See Solution, pg. 7

Worship in a church of your choice

Call 512-268-7862 to join the church directory today.

Sunset Canyon Baptist Church 8:45 AM

Sunday Morning

11:00 AM

Sunday Worship

5:45 PM

Wednesday Meal

6:30 PM

Wed TouchPoint

A Family of Faith...

SCBC Preschool Children Ministries Youth Ministries Family Ministries

www.sunsetcanyonchurch.org

(512) 894-0480

4000 E. HWY 290

St. Martin de Porres Catholic Church Mass Schedule

Rev. Charlie

Spanish Mass Sunday: 1:30 p.m.

corner of RR 12 & Post Oak in Dripping Springs

Garza, pastor Saturday: 5 p.m.

Located at the Sunday: 8:15 a.m., 11 a.m., 5 p.m.

512-858-5667

www.stmartindp.org

Page 4

News-Dispatch

Thursday, February 16, 2017

Sports Tigers grapple for district championship STAFF REPORT

The Dripping Springs Tiger wrestling team captured the District 13-5A title in convincing fashion by outpacing second place Georgetown by 60 points.

The Tigers had four wrestlers capture individual titles, while six others were runners-up in their respective weight classes.

The Tigers finished with 233 total points, while Georgetown had 172.

Capturing individual titles were Micah Ribera at 113 pounds, Chase Warden at 126 pounds, Miles Farris at 182 pounds, and Clayton Jetton at 195 pounds.

Finishing as runners-up were Brodie Dyer at 106 pounds, Ryon Cameron

Final standings from the 13-5A district wrestling title 1. Dripping Springs 2. Georgetown 3. Cedar Park 4. Leander Rouse 5. Hutto 6. Leander Glenn 7. Georgetown Eastview 8. Pflugerville Connally

at 120 pounds, Benjamin Owens at 132 pounds, Nick Hammond at 138 pounds, Tony Quevedo at 145 pounds, and Ryland Kinard at 160 pounds.

Anthony Bigley was third at 170 pounds.

Also qualifying for regional competition was

233.0 172.5 160.0 136.0 134.0 80.0 67.0 43.0

Ryand Haynes in the 220 pounds class.

Rounding out the District 13 standings were Cedar Park, Rouse, Hutto, Glenn, Georgetown Eastview, and Connally.

Regional competition will be held at the Delco Center in Austin Feb. 17-18.

PHOTO COURTESY OF JOE KIRKSEY

With medals draped around their necks, members of the Dripping Springs Tiger wrestling team and coaching staff pose for a photo after capturing the 13-5A district crown late last week. Dripping Springs advances to regionals, which will be held at the Delco Center in Austin this weekend.

PHOTO BY WAYLAND D. CLARK, WFOTOS.COM

Tigers prep for 2017 season at new park The setting sun was a beautiful backdrop on Tuesday, Feb. 7 for the Tigers’ first scrimmage of the season at the new ballpark against visiting New Braunfels. Grant Gaspard, a junior, delivers a pitch in the first inning of the game. The Tigers will host Hendrickson in a scrimmage game at 5 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 17.

PHOTO BY WAYLAND D. CLARK, WFOTOS.COM

Tigers earn last-minute win It was a high school basketball thriller. Dripping Springs’ Lane Dominey (center), fans and Tiger’s coach Craig Swannack (left) celebrate after Richard Milliron’s two point shot was good to give the Tigers a 46-44 lead. With one second on the clock, Tivy failed to get a shot off on the inbound and the Tigers won the game.

COURTESY PHOTO

Dripping Springs Tiger Tanner Heinchon faces off against an Anderson Trojan player during last week’s home match at Dripping Springs HIgh.

Tiger lacrosse trounces Trojans SUBMITTED REPORT

It was a chilly night last Thursday at Dripping Springs High, but the Tigers’ Lacrosse team torched the Anderson Trojans with a 17-8 win.

Nine different Tigers scored as they dominated the field offensively. Leading the scoring was Gabe Reno

with five goals and four assists and Tanner Heinchon with three goals and an assist; Heinchon also won 21 of 24 face-offs in the match.

Other Tigers scoring were Connor Jamail with 1 goal and 3 assists, Nic Austin with 2 goals, Josh Hays and Ryan Thomas both

LACROSSE, 5

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PHOTO BY WAYLAND D. CLARK, WFOTOS.COM

Tiger soccer moves ahead

Dripping Springs’ Jose Galindo (9) and an Alamo Heights player crash together as they both go for a header in a district match at Dripping Springs on Tuesday, Feb. 7. The Tigers lost 1-0 but came back to win their next game 1-0 at Medina Valley. The Tigers host Kerrville Tivy at 6:45 on Friday, Feb. 17.

PHOTO BY WAYLAND D. CLARK, WFOTOS.COM

Lady Tigers prep for 2017 season

Dripping Springs’ catcher Bailey Hudgeons tags a Lehman base runner out at home plate during a scrimmage at the new softball field vs. the visiting Lobos on Tuesday, Feb. 7. The Lady Tigers won 14-0. The Brittany Tuck Memorial Tournament is scheduled for Feb. 23-25 at the new field on the high school campus.

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Thursday, February 16, 2017

www.HaysNewsDispatch.com

Education

Page 5

Lacrosse: Trounce Trojans Continued from pg. 4

with one goal and an assist, and Logan Heinchon, Danner Hutchison, Cristian Reno, and Logan Crank each with one goal.

Defensively, Cameron Howorth shut down the Trojans’ leading scorer during the game, while

goalie Connor Mogen had 13 saves in the pipes.

The Tiger junior varsity team defeated the Trojans 11-2. Caden Louthan had 5 goals and Diedrich Welling had a first half shut-out in the goal.

PHOTO BY WAYLAND CLARK

Play ball!

DSHS opens baseball and softball complex A light rain let up as the delicate arch of a rainbow formed among the clouds and excitement filled the nighttime air Monday evening. Dripping Springs’ school administrators, board members, coaches, players, dignitaries, a hundred or so community members and sports fans gathered between the new baseball and softball fields for a ribbon cutting grand opening ceremony at the high school. Carrie Fontana-Kroll, president of the board of Ttustees cuts the ribbon.

Judges needed for senior portfolios SUBMITTED REPORT

Each spring Dripping Springs High School graduating seniors make a portfolio presentation for assessment before a panel consisting of educators, community members, parents, and professionals.

This portfolio process and assessment assists in the development and measurement of standards that DSISD feels critical to graduates’ success in post-secondary education and in the workplace.

This year, portfolios will allow personalized options for the student presentations and a more structured feedback process for the panel.

The Dripping Springs senior class will have more than 350 students presenting portfolios. The organizing committee is now seeking individuals with all types and levels of expertise to sit on these portfolio panels and help in the evaluation process, either as a parent/ community member, as a professional, or both.

Want to volunteer?

The presentations are scheduled for April 3-7; April 10-13; and April 17-20. Morning sessions are 8:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., and afternoon sessions are 12:30 p.m.–4:15 p.m.

Volunteers willing to assist with this process should sign up for date(s) and time(s) by signing up on SignUp.com: signup.com/go/8pgtNm. Review the options listed and choose the spot(s).

It is not necessary to register an account or keep a password on SignUp.com. SignUp does not share any email addresses. Those who prefer not to enter an email address can contact the school to be signed up manually.

Questions can be directed to seniorportfolio@ dsisdtx.us or call 512.858.3250.

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Page 6

News-Dispatch

Thursday, February 16, 2017

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Employment

SEASONAL POSITIONS AVAILABLE FOR BLUE HOLE REGIONAL PARK

OPEN HOUSE

The City of Wimberley is accepting applications for Seasonal Positions for Blue Hole Regional Park. The 2017 Summer Season begins with weekends in May, and then is daily from Memorial Day – Labor Day. Various positions available.

Applications are available online at www.cityofwimberley. com, at the City of Wimberley City Hall, 221 Stillwater, Wimberley, Texas 78676, or by calling 512.660.9111 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Highway 32 to Wimberley Transmission Line Rebuild and Upgrade Project February 23, 2017 • 6 – 8 p.m.

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Wimberley Community Center 14068 Ranch Road 12 • Wimberley, TX 78676

is hosting an open house to

512-444-8888 6200 South IH 35 Exit Wm. Cannon www.capitolchevy.com

share information about a proposed project that would rebuild and upgrade an existing

Full service septic system company since 1982 has 3 new positions open.

We are on Hwy 183 S near Mustang Ridge.

1. Entry level Septic Technician – Will train or, Licensed Septic Technician.

2. Administrative Assistant/ Customer Service – 4 days per week.

3. CDL Driver- Pump truck driver and will also train for septic technician.

Benefits: Health Insurance, paid vacation, paid holidays, no weekends. Must be physically fit enough to perform some manual tasks. Please email your contact info and resume and we will contact you by the next day.

69 kV transmission line to a 138 kV line in Hays County.

Information on the project need, routing alternatives and structure options will be available at the open house.

Your comments and input will be used as part of the evaluation of the routes and transmission structures. The rebuild of the four-mile transmission line will run from the existing Highway 32 substation to the Wimberley substation, located

septicsolution@gmail.com

in Wimberley, TX. New rights-of-way may be acquired as part of the

Real Estate Company is looking for a bright, well-organized individual for a PERMANENT PART-TIME WEEKEND RECEPTIONIST in our Dripping Springs office.

Good computer skills required. You will be answering phones, greeting clients & helping agents. Self motivated and good organizational skills preferred. If you are cheerful, good with people, productive, great at multi-tasking, we want to talk to you. Email resume to drippingsprings@stanberry.com

project.

You are invited to attend this informal “come and go” meeting, and your input is greatly appreciated. PEC will be available to answer questions about

See your ad here!

the project. We hope you will come by any time between 6 and 8 p.m.

If you have questions about the project or open house, please call 1-800-868-4791 ext. 3888, email Hwy32-Wimberley@peci.com or visit pec.coop/Hwy32-Wimberley.

Only $8 for 20 words. Call (512) 268-7862 or email paper@haysnewsdispatch.com to place your ad today.

We look forward to seeing you there.

Service Directory 2017-Wimberley-Open_House_News_Dispatch.indd 1

2/8/17 9:33 AM

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Lees Trees 30+ years in the Hill Country

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Service Directory

HURRY! Book your Service Directory Ad today.

BE SEEN! Reach thousands of potential customers for $25 a week in the News-Dispatch Service Directory.

(13 week minimum) Call 512-268-7862 or email tracy@haysfreepress.com

Thursday, February 16, 2017

www.HaysNewsDispatch.com

Page 7 w

Saxet Gun Show **The Best Gun Show** www.SaxetShows.com

Sat. Sun.

Feb. 18, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

Feb. 19, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

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1042 Event Center Dr., Dripping Springs, TX From Hwy290 go north on RR12 for 2 miles For more information call 361-289-2256

PHOTOS BY SAMANTHA SMITH

Dripping Springs business owners Lisa Lerma, Nick Lerma, Michelle Mathews and Dale Warren pose near the order window of the Pig Pen BBQ food trailer, which is located in Dripping Springs.

Local BBQ keeps truckin’ along in Dripping Springs

BELTON, TEXAS ★ FEB. 18-19, 2017

Get Half-Price Admission Today At WWW.MOTHEREARTHNEWS.COM/STORE/OFFER/MMEMFHZ3

FAIR TX TDN Ad.indd 1

BY SAMANTHA SMITH

News-Dispatch Reporter

The infectious smells of smoked brisket and candied bacon signify a dream come true for Dripping Springs resident Bill Warren.

With the opening of Pig Pen BBQ, Warren, who is an Austin Police officer, is living his dream as he brings his version of “destination eating” to town.

But Warren is also a sort-of trailblazer, as the property his truck is located on houses three food trailers, with the possibility of more food trucks in the future. The other food trucks include Dripping Wings and Le Muse coffee shop.

Warren, who has been barbequing for 20+ years, is joined by co-founder and partner Michelle Matthews, along with his sister and business partner Lisa Lerma and her husband, Nick.

The path toward their food truck venture began in July 2016 when Warren, a sergeant with the Austin Police Department with plans to retire soon, and Matthews, a registered nurse, sought to concentrate more on their catering business, “I do-BBQ.” In August, Warren and Matthews started looking for a location for their business.

“Our mother got me into it (barbequing),” Warren said as he gestured toward Lerma. “She loved to barbeque and always wanted me to get involved.

So when she passed away

“The most difficult step is the first one; just do it. If that’s really what your heart’s into and that’s really what you want to do, just do it.”

– Bill Warren, co-owner of Pig Pen BBQ

about 10 years ago, I started barbequing on my own for friends and family.”

Warren said the idea for the food trailer grew from the overwhelming feedback from family and friends raving about Warrens’ barbeque. Ultimately, the push he needed came from Matthews herself.

“She gave me the confidence to get out and do it, she is my best cheerleader

and was instrumental in the catering side of the business,” Warren said about Matthews.

Breaking into the food trailer industry in Dripping Springs, however, was a bit of a challenge. Warren described the long permitting process with multiple restrictions.

“It seemed difficult to open a food trailer in Dripping Springs,” Warren said.

Warren and Matthews ended up recruiting the experience of former Dripping Springs city employee John Thompson to help them through the permitting process that took around three months.

“You can do it (open a food trailer) without him, but it makes your job a lot easier having someone else to do the paperwork,” Warren said.

The duo conformed with lighting and operating restrictions. They also complied with the city’s rule that food trucks can only be open initially for 10 days per month.

Warren and Matthews were then given the go-

ahead to add more food trailers to their food park.

There are three food or beverage trailers in total on their property with plans to add six more.

“We’re adhering to all the city’s restrictions and they have been very receptive to that,” Warren said, “The business plan is going to work out here.”

Warren said the buzz about his barbeque through social media continues to rise.

“I think it’s a testament to how good it tastes,” Warren said.

Matthews also credits the food and how much people enjoy it.

Warren recalls how quickly the barbeque business took off once he decided to pursue it.

“Nick (Lerma) said it the best when he said we just want to be the local guys ‘barbeque joint,” Warren said.

His business has also been allowed to extend its hours of operation, which now allows them to stay open until they sell out.

“We tend to sell out everyday,” Warren said.

Warren said those who might be interested in opening a food trailer have to just “go for it.”

“The most difficult step is the first one; just do it.

If that’s really what your heart’s into and that’s really what you want to do, just do it,” Warren said.

At this time Warren said there are no plans to expand the business to a brick and mortar establishment but time will tell if that is in the future for Pig Pen BBQ.

Special Replacement

1/4/2017 2:39:33 PM

Spring Female Sale 55 35 100 80 50 55 30 25 10 5 45 20 20 10

F-1 Tiger Stripe Heifers - Pairs - Angus F-1 Tiger Stripe Heifers - Open - 700# Black Brangus Heifers - Pairs - Bred - Angus Black Brangus Heifers - Pairs - Angus Black Brangus Heifers - Pairs - Angus Black Brangus Baldie Heifers - Bred - Angus Black Brangus Baldie Heifers - Open - 750# Black Brangus Heifers - Open - 750# Sat., F-1 Black Brangus Heifers - Pairs - Angus Feb. 25 F-1 Black Brangus Heifers - Open - 750# Beefmaster Cross Heifers - Pairs - Bred - Angus Noon Grey Brahman Heifers - Open - 700# 3/4 Hereford 1/4 Brahman Heifers - Bred - Angus/Hereford 3/4 Brahman Cows (4-5 yrs) - Pairs - Hereford

Hallettsville livestock Commission Co. Hallettsville, TX

Weekly Sale on Tuesdays at 11 am

Mike Heller: 361-293-4949, David Heller: 979-743-0436 Kim Hagan: 361-293-4720, Mark Hagan: 361-293-8116

Texas Crossword Solution, from pg. 3

Women IN BUSINESS make the move.™

Melanie Fenelon ®

REALTOR , GRI, CLHMS

Specializing in residential, acreage and farm/ranch properties

Dripping Springs • Wimberley Driftwood • Lakeway • Spicewood South, Southwest and Central Austin

melfenelon@realtyaustin.com

•

(512) 658-0773

Angie Dahl

DeMasters-Daniel insurance agency DeMasters Daniel Insurance has been serving the Hill Country since 1983 as an independent insurance agency providing personal and commercial insurance products. Let our office help you shop your insurance coverage. Our staff is committed to deliver personalized service to each and every client. Look for upcoming agent introductions.

“We’d love to be your favorite place to shop!”

Wishing everyone a wonderful 2017.

At the corner of RR 12 and E. Summit Drive in Wimberley

dd-ins.net • 512-847-5549

107 E. Summit Dr, Wimberley, TX

We at Dovetails thank everyone for a great 2016.

We’ll be starting our “Cabin Fever Sale” soon! “Like us” on Facebook to get the latest news on sales and specials. See you soon!

Open daily for your shopping convenience Mon-Sat 10am-5:30pm; Sun 12-5pm 13701 Ranch Road 12 in Wimberley “One block south of the Square”

512-847-1263 • www.dovetailsofwimberley.com

Advertise here and get the eyes of Hays County on your business.

Call (512) 268-7862 or email Pam at ads@haysnewsdispatch.com to join the Women in Business directory today.

Page 8

News-Dispatch

Thursday, February 16, 2017

Senior Expo comes to town

Lagniappe

Continued from pg. 1 found at www.dswomensclub.com or by contacting womenofds@gmail.com.

Running workshop

Grab your athletic shoes, lace up, and join your community at the Dripping Springs Sports and Recreation Park (behind HEB) for another Healthy Parks, Healthy People – Dripping Springs event. Dripping Springs is partnering with the Dripping Springs Running Club to host a running workshop on Saturday, Feb. 25, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Beginners and experienced runners alike can learn about proper footwear, stretching and how to prevent injuries.

Wimberley-area senior citizens hit the Wimberley Community Center Friday for the 2017 Senior Expo, which was hosted by the Wimberley Senior Activity Center and the Barnabas Connection. The event featured various booths that provided information for seniors on what services they could receive during the next stages of their lives.

Several workshops were also held, which included safety on the internet, Medicare 101 and tips on healthy eating.

Inset, Wimberley resident Jim McMeans stands next to his 1942 Cadillac.

PHOTOS BY MOSES LEOS III

Legislation: Water catchment and iconic highways Continued from pg. 1

like to see more of that.”

Isaac said one of his priorities is to “make sure we’re protecting our water supplies and groundwater supply.”

“It will continue to grow and usage will continue to increase in Hays County,” Isaac said.

LEGISLATION COULD MAINTAIN ‘ICONIC LOOK’ OF HAYS COUNTY HIGHWAYS Isaac has also added language to an existing bill that could designate RM 150 and FM 1828 as “scenic highways.”

Should the roads attain that designation, Isaac said it would limit what can be placed on the side of those roads.

An example is limiting the number of billboards in order to “maintain the scenic appearance of the road.”

“People that ride motorcycles and drive cars see the Hill Country,” Isaac said. “We want to try to maintain the beauty of those roads.”

Issac said his chief of staff has been working with individuals in Driftwood regarding the leg-

islation. He said a similar bill had been crafted “years ago”, and he saw a chance to add those Hays County roads.

“Hopefully, we will work with them to gain support and work through the legislative process,” Isaac said.

Rhodes did without incident, according to the release.

Rhodes informed authorities that his wife, later identified as Anderson, was inside. When authorities went inside the residence, they found Anderson dead.

According to the release, Rhodes allegedly confessed to detectives that he killed Anderson.

Rhodes has no previous

criminal history.

Rhodes is being held in the Hays County Jail.

An autopsy has been ordered for Anderson to determine the cause and manner of death.

The investigation is ongoing and no further details will be released at this time.

This story is developing. We will provide updates as they become available.

Murder: Man held in wife’s death Continued from pg. 1

press release.

Rhodes is suspected of killing his wife, who has been identified as Christina Pollock Anderson, 67. Rhodes was magistrated by Hays County Justice of the Peace Pct. 1-1 Joann Prado, who set his bond at $750,000.

According to the release, the homicide occurred on Cripple Creek Court in the Woodcreek North subdivision.

Authorities received a call around 5 p.m. Thursday from Anderson, who called to report her husband was “out of control” and that she needed help from law enforcement, according to an earlier release.

However, the call was disconnected and a return call made by Hays County Sheriff’s 911 dispatchers was unsuccessful.

Initial reports indicated that when deputies arrived at the scene, Rhodes was found armed in the front yard of the home.

However, Rhodes was inside of the residence and was walking toward the front door when deputies on scene first observed him.

Deputies issued verbal commands to exit the home unarmed and

Tax services

Free assistance with income tax preparation is available through the AARP Tax-Aide program at the Dripping Springs Independent School District Administration building and the Wimberley Village Library). In Dripping Springs, volunteers are available on Tuesdays through April 18 except during spring break from 2-7 p.m To make an appointment, leave a message at (512) 858-0954.

In Wimberley, volunteers will be available by appointment by calling (512) 590-0893 through April 12. For more info, call (512) 858-0954.

Hunger STRIKE

Hunger STRIKE is an annual bowling tournament benefiting Hays County Food Bank.

The event will take place at Sunset Bowling Lanes in San Marcos, TX on Friday, Feb. 24 from 1-4 p.m. See haysfoodbank. org/hunger_strike.aspx for more information.

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