News-Dispatch July 11, 2019

Local takes pride in snake rescue

Texas is 5th best for road trips

RM 150 crossings reopened

page 2

page 2

News-Dispatch

52

Volume XXXIX No. 39

Serving Western Hays County, Texas since 1982

Experts fear negative impact from water permits

Feds indict man in Hays County child porn case Federal authorities are joining a multi-party investigation that originated in Hays County of a man suspected of producing, distributing and possessing child pornography.

While FBI officials have issued a 52-count indictment against Luann Fabric Campos Leao Hida, 25, of Lakeway, authorities fear there could be more victims than the 15 so far identified.

Hida was federally indicted June 18, according to FBI officials; those indictments were formally unsealed July 1.

An indictment is not a conviction of guilt, but is a formal allegation.

Hida was originally arrested Aug. 7 in Hays County after authorities accused him of going online to solicit sexual favors in the Dripping Springs area, the Hays Free Press reported.

According to an arrest affidavit, Hida allegedly furnished vape pens and vape oil and alcohol to teenagers in the Dripping Springs area in exchange for sexual favors.

Gary Cutler, Hays County Sheriff, said local authorities got into the case via a suspicious circumstances call. Cutler said the HCSO called in other agencies as the scope of the investigation started to involve other jurisdictions.

FBI officials are aware of victims in Travis, Hays, Bell and

CHILD PORN, 2

75¢ Thursday, July 11, 2019

COUNTS

BY MOSES LEOS III

page 4

BY EXSAR ARGUELLO Two pending groundwater permits in Hays County, if approved, could severely damage the Trinity Aquifer, according to multiple hydrogeologists in the area.

Those permits, filed

by Needmore Water, LLC and Electro Purification, LLC, are vying to pump more than 1.2 billion gallons of water a year, combined, if approved by the Barton Springs Edwards Aquifer Conservation District (BSEACD)

Celebrating Independence Day A sea of red, white and blue spanned for miles in downtown Wimberley as the city celebrated Independence Day. State Rep. Erin Zwiener (D-Driftwood) marched in the parade on her noble steed.

WATER PERMIT, 6

PHOTOS BY EXSAR ARGUELLO

Kinder Morgan eminent domain lawsuit dismissed

BY MOSES LEOS III

A Travis County District Judge dismissed litigation aimed at halting Kinder Morgan’s $2 billion, 420-mile Permian Highway Pipeline (PHP) on June 25.

According to multiple reports, Travis County District Judge Lora Livingston dismissed all claims within the suit, which included an injunction meant to stop the routing process of the PHP. The suit also sought for the Texas Railroad Commission (TRC), which oversees the oil and natural gas industry in the state, to

Eminent domain “flows to the gas utilities” through the Texas Constitution and the Legislature, Livingston said in her ruling.

provide more oversight on the routing process for natural gas pipelines.

However, Livingston ruled the Texas Legislature doesn’t grant the TRC authority to oversee the eminent domain process. Additionally, Livingston ruled gas utility companies do not receive eminent domain powers by completing an application, which was

an argument made by plaintiffs.

Eminent domain “flows to the gas utilities” through the Texas Constitution and the Legislature, Livingston said in her ruling.

Livingston also granted Kinder Morgan’s May 7 request for a summary judgement to dismiss the suit.

Livingston’s ruling

comes nearly a month after a hearing on the lawsuit, which was held in the 261st District Court in Austin. That hearing involved TRC and Kinder Morgan officials, who were defendants in the case, as well as plaintiffs, which included Kyle and Hays County officials and local landowners.

At the center of the hearing was Kinder Morgan’s PHP, a 42-inch proposed underground natural gas pipeline that will run from far west Texas to the Houston area. The proposed pipe-

PIPELINE LAWSUIT, 2

County hosts workshop on preventative care technology

BY EXSAR ARGUELLO

Advances in technology allowing healthcare providers to monitor patents remotely in the name of preventive care could support indigent Hays County residents in the future.

MRG Medical showed Hays County Commissioners in a June 25 workshop a watch that can monitor a patient’s vital signs, as well as their sleeping and eating habits.

MRG officials hope to provide the county with the technology, which they feel could help slash the $2 million

MRG officials hope to provide the county with the technology, which they feel could help slash the $2 million spent by Hays County that pays for indigent resident hospital bills.

spent by Hays County that pays for indigent resident hospital bills.

State statutes requires counties across the state to pay for these medical expenses; the majority of costs come from hospital visits.

“Any time (the indi-

gent population) goes to the hospital, it comes out of your budget,” said MRG Medical co-founder Bob Lang.

“Imagine if we were to assign a primary care physician to these patients … they could manage those patients

and keep them out of the hospital.”

Approximately $3 billion is spent every year in the United States on emergency room visits and reactive healthcare practices, according to MRG. Their technology could cut $1 billion a year, Lang said.

The watch collects data from residents and sends it to a physician that works with the county. MRG Medical Founder Kyle Hayungs said the company’s technology serves as a building block for a more efficient health-

PREVENTATIVE CARE, 6

Wedding venue expansion causes concerns for residents

BY EXSAR ARGUELLO Driftwood residents are pushing Dripping Springs city leaders to reevaluate site development plans for a local wedding venue future expansion.

In June, Mark Black, owner of the Mark Black Wedding Venue on Crystal Hills Drive in Dripping Springs’ extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ), submitted new site development plans to Dripping Springs city officials to build additional structures on the property. This new revelation caused heartburn for those who oppose the project.

Carlos Torres-Verdin, president of Friendship Alliance, an organization representing a group of neighbors, said Black started construction of the new structures before the city approved the changes, which he argues is illegal.

“It’s as simple as it sounds — they are breaking the law,” Torres-Verdin said. “They did not disclose the size of the septic system and the size of the stormwater containment devices. That’s significant considering the property is on the Edwards Aquifer recharge zone.”

A Hays County official in the planning department said plans have not yet been submitted to the county; Dripping Springs, however, has a copy of the plans.

WEDDING VENUE, 6

Page 2

News-Dispatch

News -Dispatch PHONE: 512-268-7862 FAX: 512-268-0262 PUBLISHER Cyndy Slovak-Barton csb@haysfreepress.com

EDITOR Moses Leos III moses@haysfreepress.com

REPORTERS Exsar Arguello Katie Burrell news@haysfreepress.com

PRODUCTION David White david@haysfreepress.com Elizabeth Garcia design@haysfreepress.com ADVERTISING/MARKETING Tracy Mack ads@bartonpublicationsinc.com

Jim Darby ads@haysfreepress.com

PHOTOGRAPHER Wayland Clark PROOFREADER Jane Kirkham CIRCULATION MANAGER/ LEGAL NOTICES Verna Wommack 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.

SUBSCRIPTION PRICE $42 local, $59 county, $62 out of state.

Periodicals Postage paid at Driftwood, TX. Email paper@haysnewsdispatch. com for subscriptions and address changes.

POSTMASTER: send address changes to NewsDispatch, PO Box 339, Buda, TX 78610 LETTERS GUIDELINES We welcome locally written letters to the editor on timely topics of community interest.

We ask that you keep them to about 350 words in length and that you not indulge in personal attacks on private individuals. Letters may be edited for brevity and clarity.

All letters should be signed by the author and include a daytime phone number where the author can be contacted for verification.

Letter writers are limited to one letter per month. Letters can be emailed to csb@ haysfreepress.com.

Snake, rattle and roll RM 150 low Buda native takes pride in snake rescue gig

BY EXSAR ARGUELLO Diving headlong into the bushes to rescue a snake isn’t an ideal way most people prefer to spend an afternoon.

Buda native Brent Ormand, however, relishes such an opportunity.

Having dedicated his life to snake conservation, education and rehabilitation, Ormand and his team at Snakes of Hays County are on a mission to protect those cold-blooded creatures from the perils of rapid development in Hays County.

This encroachment in habitat means a variety of snakes from rattlesnakes to cottonmouths are often in need of help to escape the neighborhoods they slither into.

The job, however, is an about-face for Ormand, who said he feared snakes when he was younger.

“These are animals that are more scared of you than you are of them,” Ormand said.

“When we get called out to rescue a snake, the most important thing for us is teaching people that these creatures are not here to hurt you.”

Besides being the team called to rescue a pesky rattlesnake from under someone’s house, Snakes of Hays County’s mission is to educate people on how to protect and respect the animals.

At the office, Ormand and Joshua Sarkardehi regularly analyze the progress of the snakes they rescue. One snake was recently caught in a lawnmower blade and has a long scar on its back to prove it.

Sarkardehi said a mammal would likely not survive a wound like that. But in order to survive for 90 million years, a creature must have the survival instincts of a snake.

Through care and rehabilitation, the snake is now healing. Within a few more sheds of his skin, he will be ready to return home to the rural Texas brush.

“That’s what it’s all about, giving these animals the protection they deserve,” Ormand. “The more we can educate people on these ancient creatures, the better shot we have of protecting them.”

Some could look at Ormand as a snake wrangler, but he laughs at the assumption. He instead sees his team as educators and conservationists first. When his team has spare time, they go to neighboring schools to teach the younger generation how to care for the animals.

“When I was young, I was scared of snakes.

But I overcame my fear and began to love them.

Now they are my life,” Ormand said.

After he catches a snake on a property, he will speak to the landowners about the animal.

One of the most satisfying parts of the job is seeing people’s fear and loathing turn into appreciation for the animals.

Western Hays County commuters rejoiced Friday after the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) repaired and reopened RM 150 at the Onion Creek Double Crossings near Driftwood.

The fixes, done to repair damage caused by floodwaters in May, comes roughly a month ahead of an estimated timeline for the work to be done. Initially, TxDOT officials expected work on the double

8:45 AM

Sunday Morning 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

crossings to be complete by the end of July.

Additionally, Hays County officials worked with TxDOT to keep large load vehicles from traveling along the crossings, the Hays Free Press reported. County officials said a vehicle weighing more than a million pounds overturned in March, which they pointed to as a partial cause for damage to the roadway.

It is unknown at this time how much TxDOT spent to repair the double crossings.

Child Porn: 52 counts Continued from pg. 1

PHOTO BY EXSAR ARGUELLO

Handling rattlesnakes is a craft that takes years to perfect.

Buda resident Brent Ormand said the snake was comfortable in his hands because it sensed he wasn’t there to hurt it. Ormand’s mantra revolves around respecting the reptiles he’s grown to love.

“We’re seeing more and more movies shot in the Texas Hill Country in remote areas where producers can shoot nature in its untouched beauty,” Ormand said.

“My job is to get on set and clear the area of any snakes before filming.

I’m protecting the crew from snakes and I’m protecting the snakes from the crew.”

When these snakes are healthy, Ormand releases them far away from neighborhoods and back in their habitat.

SSSSLITHERING INTO THE LIMELIGHT When he’s not hosting educational forums, rehabilitating or saving snakes, Ormand often

imparts his knowledge on the biggest sets of Hollywood movies and shows.

Ormand and his team have been hired to protect cast and crew of TV shows and major films from snakes during filming days. Ormand has helped with productions such as HBO’s “The Leftovers” and AMC’s “The Son.” “We’re seeing more and more movies shot in the Texas Hill Country in remote areas where producers can shoot nature in its untouched beauty,” Ormand said.

“My job is to get on set and clear the area of any snakes before filming.

I’m protecting the crew from snakes and I’m protecting the snakes from the crew.”

Ormand said these snakes have never encountered humans, so protecting them and their habitat is essential while being on set. Once filming is complete, the snakes return home.

More than a dozen species of snakes call Central Texas home, most of which are non-venomous.

Protecting the wildlife and crew during a filming in rural Texas is one of the most pivotal components of a functioning production, something Ormand takes pride in.

“Once my work is done and I retire, I want people to remember me as someone who taught our society how to coexist with wildlife,” Ormand said. “I want people to replace that fear with appreciation.”

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

Sunset Canyon Baptist Church

water crossings reopened STAFF REPORT

Worship in a church of your choice 11:00 AM

Thursday, July 11, 2019

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

Williamson counties with incidents ranging anywhere from 2014 to 2017. The case began at the local level, with the FBI starting to get involved once it was determined photos and video associated with the case were disseminated online.

Authorities have so far identified 15 boys during the course of the investigation. However, officials said there are approximately 20 more boys who so far have not yet been identified.

Authorities also fear there could be more victims who authorities do not know about yet.

Anyone who might have been victimized or suspect they might have been victimized by Hida should contact the FBI or HCSO officials. Officials said the scope of incidents could perhaps precede 2014.

Cindy Cantu, an official with the center

for child protection, said parents who suspect their child might have been in contact with Hida should be aware of any behavioral changes that might have taken place.

Cantu said parents should listen to children, but not directly ask questions that might suggest they’re attempting to obtain information. If parents hear something that concerns them, they should contact authorities and make a report. An FBI official said parents shouldn’t do detective work, but if their child knew Hida, they should contact authorities.

Cutler encouraged parents to keep an eye on their child’s activity online and on social media.

“This is the perfect example that there are sexual predators in our community that preys upon kids,” Cutler said.

Pipeline Lawsuit: Dismissed Continued from pg. 1

line is projected to cut through the Texas Hill Country and through Hays County.

Numerous jurisdictions, including Kyle, Buda, Wimberley, Blanco, Fredericksburg and Lockhart, as well as Hays and Gillespie county officials, have approved resolutions opposing the PHP. In a statement, Tom Martin, president of Natural Gas Pipelines for Kinder Morgan, said Kinder Morgan is “very pleased” with Tuesday’s ruling.

“The court’s findings validate the process established in Texas for the development of natural gas utility projects, as well as the steps we have taken to comply with that process,” Martin said in a statement. “We will continue to engage all stakeholders as we work to complete the PHP.” Officials with the Tex-

as Real Estate Advocacy and Defense (TREAD) Coalition, which has supported landowners who filed suit against the PHP, said they respect but disagree with Livingston’s ruling.

“We continue to believe the Texas constitution does not allow for the delegation of this awesome power to a private company without oversight,” according to the statement.

“We are weighing our options for an appeal and planning additional legal actions in other venues to challenge this severely problematic route.”

Kyle Mayor Travis Mitchell said the ruling is “unfortunate,” but was not unexpected.

“We’re going to keep up the fight and regroup and figure out our next options,” Mitchell said. “We’re going to continue advocating for our communities.”

News-Dispatch Providing you with your most important local news for Dripping Springs, Wimberley and surrounding communities Havve all the local news delivered to your home every week for only $42 a year. 10% discount for senior citizens.

Call 512-268-7862 to subscribe.

Like us on Facebook

Thursday, July 11, 2019

www.HaysNewsDispatch.com

Sports

Krewe crushes Lobos 5-0

BY MOSES LEOS III

The Krewe opened its barrage with a goal in the Four first half goals 28th minute to take a 1-0 scored over an eight-minlead. They powered for ute span helped the three more goals between Louisiana Krewe coast past the 33rd and 36th minute the Central Texas Lobos in that helped them build an a 5-0 blowout Saturday at insurmountable 4-0 advanShelton Stadium. tage at intermission.

While their playoff Walding said the probchances are all but extinlem occurred when the guished, Lobos owner and Lobos made a position co-manager David Walding switch on the field, but did said the team aims for its so before making a needed highest finish in the Gulf substitution to accommoCoast Premier League date the move. As a result, (GCPL) standings in next Walding said a handful of week’s season finale. players were playing in “Next week, we are going positions they were not to come out full force and accustomed to. try to get those points,” “We kind of messed up Walding said. “We want to the spacing and formation finish off the season with on the field,” Walding said. a win and on the right foot “We put players in posiand finish with a positive tions they were not used heading into the offseato before we could get the son.” substitution.”

Struggles began earHowever, Walding said ly for the Lobos as they the Lobos generated strong were unable to contain attacks and chances on an aggressive attack from goal for the majority of the GCPL West-leading the first half. The Lobos Krewe, who sought to earn attacked the Krewe from home-field advantage in the outside into the middle the playoffs. The Lobos of the field. also battled lineup attrition But the tactic was heading into the contest. countered by the Krewe’s CenTex had two players out strategy of attacking from due to injury and two more the air and crossing into who were suspended due the middle. Lobo struggles to prior red cards. continued into the second Also not helping matters half when the Krewe added was a strategical miscue a fifth goal and put the midway through the first game away. half, which the Krewe “We played well in the exploited. first half with the exception

PHOTO BY MOSES LEOS III

Central Texas Lobo defender Oscar Diaz-Ramirez (left) forces a Louisiana Krewe player to go airborne to maintain possession of the ball in Saturday’s Gulf Coast Premier League contest.

of the stretch where they got the goals,” Walding said.

Despite the defeat, Walding was optimistic the Lobos can turn it around when they host Shreveport United, a team they’ve beaten three times this season, in the final game of the year July 13.

Should they win, the Lobos could secure as high as fourth place in the GPCL West standings, the highest finish the program has had in its history.

“We’re going out with the mentality of putting on a show for fans and getting a win,” Walding said.

Hays alumna making an impact on the track at Penn State University

BY SHANE SCHOLWINSKI After stepping foot on the track during her middle school years, Buda native Camille Dickson never imagined competing at the collegiate level.

Following a successful four-year career at Hays High that included numerous accolades, Dickson, who now attends the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelpia, is making a name for herself as a sprinter and long jumper in the college ranks.

She now eyes the possibility of earning a spot in the NCAA track and field national championships, something Dickson said wouldn’t have been possible if she didn’t take a chance by going to school out of state.

“It was a great opportunity and I would’ve regretted it for the rest of my life if I had not taken it,” Dickson said. “I wanted to get out of my comfort zone and I did. I didn’t know one person there (in Pennsylvania). I love it so much.”

Dickson has always taken track and field seriously and has focused on competing against herself. There were even times in high school she would get sick before each meet due to her nerves and competitive spirit.

Despite the nerves, Dickson ran well in multiple events and earned a trip to the 2017 UIL state meet in the 100-meter dash.

“I’ve never gotten so nervous for any other

Page 3

bill.

It wasn’t until she sent out multiple emails to several Ivy league schools in early 2017 that she received word from Penn that they had one spot left open if she wanted it.

Dickson didn’t hesitate to take advantage of the opportunity.

“Looking back on it now, Penn is definitely the best decision I’ve ever made, just because I’ve grown so much and in such a different way that I wouldn’t have if I went to any other school,” said Dickson. “The challenges that track has given me and the opportunities PHOTO COURTESY OF that the school has given CAMILLE DICKSON me academically and Penn track athlete and Buda-native Camille Dickson rounds the bend during an event at the 2019 Penn Relays at Franklin Field in Philadelphia. Dickson, a Hays High alumna, will enter her junior year at Penn in 2020.

sport, I think it was because I took it so seriously and I was so competitive,” Dickson mentioned. “I think I threw up before every single track meet in high school, like my freshman and sophomore years. Now I don’t get nervous, I get so excited for them.”

Before committing to run at Penn late in her senior year, Dickson was set to attend Texas A&M University.

She had received multiple letters of interest from lower-level colleges for track. Academics, however, was number one on her list and A&M fit the

stuff. All the groups I’ve gotten to be a part of, it’s insane.”

Dickson, now a sophomore at Penn, competed in both indoor and outdoor track and field during her first two years.

Long Jump has been her focus since starting at Penn, but she still competes as a sprinter.

Dickson competed in the 60-meter, 200-meter, 300-meter and 400-meter races, in addition to 4x100-meter team relays.

Following her freshman season in 2018, Dickson ranked sixth all-time at Penn in the 200-meter indoor (24.66 seconds),

MAKING TRACKS, 4

Women’s soccer moves to shatter glass ceiling Years from now, a generation of highly-paid female athletes will point to 23 brave, heroic women whose dominance, courage and outspokenness further paved the way for their success.

Granted, that group of U.S. women, who on Sunday capped off an scintillating 30-day run en route to winning the 2019 Women’s World Cup, was preceded by so many before them who in many ways helped to make their run possible.

Billie Jean King, Mia Hamm, Venus and Serena Williams immediately come to mind.

However, the work Alex Morgan, Megan Rapinoe, Carli Lloyd and company accomplished during their run wasn’t limited to seven straight wins and a sleek, shiny trophy.

Their play, as well as their voices, shined a brighter beacon on fixing the issue of gender inequality that’s plagued sports and society for generations.

A nearly $800,000 disparity between the amount of money claimed by U.S. Women’s National Team members (roughly $200,000 per player) versus their male counterparts ($1 million per player) for an unblemished road to a World Cup win, per a CNBC report, painfully drives that point home.

Perhaps that’s why Sunday’s World Cup win for the U.S. women’s team, the program’s fourth win total and second in a row, could very well be one of the most iconic moments in American sports.

Because not only did they talked the talk, but they walked the walk.

With every goal scored, with every distinct and refreshing celebration, the USWNT once again proved their worth at a time when they really shouldn’t have to.

They did so with the gravitas we have come to expect with a title-winning program, no matter the gender. Frankly, those who complain about Alex Morgan’s tea celebration or the team’s 12-0 win over Thailand should step back and take a chill pill.

If we’re okay with a male athlete shaking his butt after a score, or a team of men winning in a blowout, why aren’t we

From the Sidelines

by Moses Leos III

cool with women doing the same?

More importantly, their efforts and actions will no doubt further embolden and empower young girls to step beyond societal norms and reach for whatever they choose to do in life. Acceptance and tolerance were also key attributes the team drove home.

It could also further provide motivation for female athletes to strive for the best and aim for gold, gaining further ground in equalizing the divide between men and women.

That mindset is alive and well right here in Hays County. Since 2013, all three team state championships claimed

by Hays County high schools were won by women’s programs. Of the 18 total teams that reached the postseason from Hays, Wimberley, Dripping Springs and Lehman high schools last season, roughly half of them were women’s sports.

While Sunday provided a victory for equal rights, the fight for full gender equality will continue.

It remains to be seen if U.S. Soccer will shatter the glass ceiling and pay the USWNT just as much as, if not more than, their male counterparts. The latter who have zero world cups and counting.

It’s also unknown just yet if their run will help women continue to break through in other sports.

Perhaps one day we’ll see a woman play with the men in the NBA, on the soccer pitch or on the diamond or football field.

We might even see a woman take on the role of a head coach in a men’s league. Perhaps one day, a woman could very well lead this nation as President.

The crazy thing is, those dreams don’t seem so far off any more.

Because if we all think like the U.S. Women’s soccer team, with open minds and open hearts, then anything is possible.

Women IN BUSINESS make the move.™

REAL ESTATE

Melanie Fenelon ®

REALTOR , GRI, CLHMS

Specializing in residential, acreage and farm/ranch properties

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

melanie.fenelon@compass.com

We Support the Tigers Texas hometown friendly bank

512-858-5159

401 E. Hwy 290W. P.O. Box 1243 Dripping Springs, TX 78620

•

(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.

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

dd-ins.net • 512-847-5549

107 E. Summit Dr, Wimberley, TX

Do Business Locally Is your business being seen?

We can help.

Reach thousands of potential customers in the News-Dispatch sports section every week.

Call (512) 268-7862 or email ads@bartonpublicationsinc.com for more information.

Page 4

News-Dispatch

Thursday, July 11, 2019

OBITUARY

Hitting the open road Texas 5th best for road trips

BY EXSAR ARGUELLO

Open roads, sunshine, state parks and natural attractions comprise a winning formula that makes Texas one of the best states in the country to take a road trip. According to a new WalletHub study, Texas is the 5th best state in which to take a road trip, largely because of the plethora of state and national parks. In conjunction with natural attractions, Texas is also relatively inexpensive for travel. “Aside from having cheap gas, Texas also has low toll fees,” said Wallethub Analyst Jill Gonzalez.

“Accommodation costs are part of the reason why Texas is an affordable road trip destination, as well. Both in terms of hotel rooms and camping, the state has some of the lowest prices.”

In Texas, national parks make up .73% of the state’s size, putting it 21st on the list in that category. But an abundant supply of state parks gives Texans a variety of options.

State parks are a key component to the state’s economy, welcoming more than eight million visitors a year through its gates, said Texas Parks and Wildlife (TPDW) State Parks Marketing & Brand Manager Thomas Wilhelm.

“Texas’ diversity is what makes it such a hub for tourism,” said Wilhelm.

“Besides geography, the cultures of the different regions make visiting the state a unique experience as well. No part of the state

“Texas’ diversity is what makes it such a hub for tourism. Besides geography, the cultures of the different regions make visiting the state a unique experience as well. No part of the state is the same.”

–Thomas Wilhelm, Texas Parks and Wildlife (TPDW) State Parks Marketing & Brand Manager

is the same.”

But the state can improve in its transportation infrastructure to ensure the safety of those traveling to parks.

Gonzalez said 63% of Texas’ major roads are in poor or mediocre condition and interstate congestion has increased by 24% in seven years.

“Other than that, Texas has a high number of traffic-related fatalities and car thefts, a large share of uninsured drivers (more than 14%) and high larceny and violent crime rates,” she said.

Fuel costs across the state are budget friendly for those willing to take the country roads. Nationally, gas prices rose 67 cents between January and May. But in Texas, gas prices have stayed relatively stagnant, much lower than the national average.

Texas also has a plethora of small destination towns along the journey.

Wilhelm said these small towns add character to the state as families traveling to the various parks can witness historic sites along

the way.

As of January 2019, TPWD began implementing a new system to streamline the process for entering state parks.

“We now offer the ability to book a day pass in advance, which has been a tremendous help for our parks that fill up quickly,

Margaret “Betty” Bowen Carver Richardson, 82, born August 25, 1936, got her purple wings and passed peacefully in her home, surrounded by family.

She was born in Houston, lived most of her life in Pasadena and Montgomery, TX, and moved to her beloved Hill Country and Buda in 2017.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Vance and Inez Bowen, daddy Donnie Carver, son little Donnie Carver and his wife Stephanie Carver, and grandson

especially in the summer,” Wilhelm said. “People are learning and we’re seeing a quick adaptation for those popular spots like Enchanted Rock.”

And with the number of state park attendees anticipated to rise, TPWD’s new system is a method to continue the tourism boom.

“Take advantage of the state’s affordability and diversity in activity options,” Gonzalez said. “The state has zoos, botanical gardens, amusement and theme parks, as well as plenty of nightlife. Its shoreline mileage and a large number of accommodation and food services establishments also add to Texas’ attractiveness as a road trip destination.”

Texas Crossword

RICHARDSON

sponsored by...

Patrick Carver.

She is survived by her husband Kim Richardson, son Russell Carver, daughter Suzanne Carver and her husband David Jenkins, grandchildren Eli Carver and his wife April Winn Carver, Tyson Carver, Donnie Carver lll, Ann Carver and her cherished great-grandchildren, Hiatt and Monica.

She was a good mom and a faithful loving grandma and wife. She was colorful and a bit gaudy. She loved Texas and critters. She was loved.

Richardson’s last community supper will be held at 1 p.m. July 13 at the Driftwood Community Center, 15090 RR 150. Bring your favorite covered dish to share in the celebration of her flight.

DeMasters - Daniel Insurance Agency, Inc. Serving Hays County since 1983 “Call us for all of your insurance needs” Angiel Dahl

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

Making Tracks: Going for gold Continued from pg. 3

ninth all-time in the outdoor 200-meters (24.45), and sixth all-time in outdoor long jump (19-feet, 3.5-inches), according to Penn Athletics website.

She was also part of the 2018 Ivy League Outdoor Heptagonal Team Championship, as well as Hepagonal Indoor Team Championship. In the 4x100-meter relay, Dickson made second team All-Ivy League for Outdoor, while also holding third all-time record for Penn in the 4x100m relay (45.33 seconds).

Not only is Dickson making an impact on the track, but she is also involved in making an impact in the local community in Philadelphia. In addition to studying economics with a minor in urban real estate, Dickson is involved with Camp Kesem, an organization that

puts on camps to support children with parents who are affected by cancer.

“It’s entirely student run and we fundraise all year to give them kind of like this free week of just time to be a kid,” Dickson said. “It’s so much fun, especially since the track team seems to rally together around it.”

With her junior season on the horizon, Dickson is focused on a few goals, including breaking both the indoor and outdoor Penn school record for long jump and qualifying for nationals. In 2019, Dickson missed the first round of nationals by .01-meter.

“Next year my goal is to make it to nationals in long jump,” Dickson said.

“I was just right there (this season), and it made me hungrier to make it happen next year.”

See Texas Crossword solution on page 6

Service Directory Automotive

Air Conditioning

APC

Service Pros, LLC

Air Conditioning • Heating • Electrical

Central Garage, LLC Complete Auto Repair

(512) 894-4114 or (512) 858-4252 1 120 Hwy 290 W Mon-Fri, 8-5:30 Dripping Springs, TX 78620 Danny Hubbard

Glass Service

Service • Repair • Installation

512-410-7739 www.APCServicePros.com TACLB015741E

Licensed and Insured

TECL 24139

Handyman

Reliable Handy Man Commercial & Residential

• Contract Glazing • Storefronts • Insulated Glass

• Furniture Tops • Tempered Glass • Mirrors

Framed & Frameless Tub & Shower Enclosures

512 312 2767

5360 Industrial Way Dr., Buda, TX Stefnie at shallmark@dynamicglass.com

Painting, Remodel & Home Repair, Flooring & Tile, Carpentry, Decks & Fences, Pressure Washing, Gutters, Cleaning & Repair, RV Repair

Get your honey-do list done right.

ReliableHandymanTX.com 20+ Years of Experience • Insured

512-618-0482 • DHALL45@Yahoo.com

Dirt

Dirt Cheap Loam • Topsoil • Sand • Gravel • Roadbase • Asphalt Millings • Granite • Compost Mix

Tractor Work Available

Specializing in Country Driveways

Rick-Rob Trucking 512- 858-7952 www.rick-rob.com

robinnds@aol.com

Financial Planning Financial Planning

Zachary Barton Zachary Barton

512-686-7589 512-686-7589 107 S. Main St., Ste. A • Kyle, TX

107 S. Main St., Ste. A • Kyle, TX

Financial Planning• Insurance Planning Planning Planning Financial Investment Planning• Insurance

Investment Planning

Lawn Care

WHO DOES YOUR LANDSCAPING/LAWN? Offering competitive pricing and superior service in the Manchaca, Buda, and Kyle area since 2010

Taking care of your yard so you can play!

LANDSCAPING AND LAWN SERVICE

• Flower Beds • Fencing • Sprinkler Systems • Patios • Mowing, Edging and Cleanup • Tree Trimming and Removal • Rock Gardens • Garden Boxes • Build Sheds

Call Jesse Reyna at 512-788-2180 or email apa6207@sbcglobal.net

Classifieds

Thursday, July 11, 2019

www.HaysNewsDispatch.com

Employment

Page 5

20 words for $8!

Place your classified ad by calling 512-268-7862 or send an email to paper@haysnewsdispatch.com.

We accept Visa, Mastercard and Discover

DEADLINE: NOON MONDAY FOR THURSDAY’S PAPER

Texas Statewide Advertising Network

EMPLOYMENT NOTICE Subscribe

The City of Dripping Springs is currently accepting applications for the full-time position of Maintenance Worker. The position pays $16 to $18 per hour and includes benefits. The application and full job description are available on the Employment page at www. cityofdrippingsprings. com or at 511 Mercer Street. Call City Hall at (512) 858-4725 or email Michelle Fischer at mfischer@ cityofdrippingsprings.com for more information.

Cheaper than dinner for two...

News-Dispatch Get the News-Dispatch delivered to your home every week for only $42 a year.

10% discount for seniors.

Call 512-268-7862 Providing you with news for Dripping Springs, Wimberley and surrounding communities

Like us on Facebook

Texas Statewide Advertising Network

Service Directory Roofing

Pool Service

Shoe Repair

• Boot Experts • Purse Repair • Belt Repair • Luggage Repair • Shoe Care Products

Over 10 years of experience Keith Miller, owner One Time & Weekly Cleanings Drain & Cleans Pressure Washing Full Service Repairs HIGH TIDE Pool Replastering POOL SERVICE FREE ESTIMATES HIGHTIDEPOOLSERVICE@YAHOO.COM HIGHTIDEPOOLSERVICE.COM

512-965-3465

Roofing & Repair Veteran

Insulated Siding Energy Efficient Upgrades owned and

Gutters & Protection operated Austin, TX 512.488.1810 brian@discountroofusa.com

AustinShoeHospital.com locations in in Central Central Texas 1010Locations Texasincluding: including: Highway 290 & Nutty Brown Road • 512-827-3398 316 Round 290 RockWest Ave. inRound Rock• 512-288-6386 - 512-244-9124 Highway Oak Hill Bee CaveBell in Lakeway • 512-263-4630 306 South Cedar Park - 512-219-8387

8211 Burnet Rd. Austin - 512-453-1961

Tree Service

Lees Trees

38 years experience in the hill country Firewood • Pruning • Removal • Chipping Planting • Cedar Posts • Bulk Mulch

Free Assessments & Estimates • Insured MARCUS LEES (512) 858-4018 leestreestexas@gmail.com

Window Treatments

Texas Crossword Solution

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

Graber, Hunter Douglas, Norman & more.

Low prices with lifetime guarantees and fast professional installation.

Call 512-847-8970

for free consultation & price quote.

www.MadeinTheShadeofwimberley.com

See puzzle, page 4

Like us on Facebook

NewsDispatch Providing you with your most important local news for Dripping Springs, Wimberley and surrounding communities

Page 6

News-Dispatch

Thursday, July 11, 2019

Preventative Care: Technology could keep county residents healthy Continued from pg. 1

care system.

In Hays County, a lack of physicians and medical professionals is hindering the ability for residents to receive adequate healthcare. There is one doctor for every 1,396 patients in Hays County, which is twice the national average, according to a 2016 Hays County health assessment.

Additionally, the uninsured population is twice the national average, according to the assessment.

Lang displayed his vitals to the Hays County Commissioners during the June 25 workshop with MRG. “I’m an open book,” Lang said. “It allows any physician or any caregiver to see my vitals

There is one doctor for every 1,396 patients in Hays County, which is twice the national average, according to a 2016 Hays County health assessment. without having to go to a doctor to understand what’s going on with my

Wedding Venue: Neighbors oppose expansion Continued from pg. 1

Black said the new plans will add several housing units on the property for wedding venue parties to stay the night.

“We’re still building the most beautiful wedding venue in Texas,” Black said. “That’s not going to change.”

But Black refuted rumors he was planning to construct a restaurant on the property. Black said the original plan included a commercial kitchen for the wedding venue.

“Of course, there will be concerns but we’re working hand in hand with the city to comply with everything we need to,” Black said.

However, Torres-Verdin said there is still information missing from the site plans. He said the county and TCEQ do not have the plans, which is grounds for the project not to be approved.

“They were building something they were not approved to build and never told TCEQ about that,” Torres-Verdin said.

“The new building is a size up. They need to revise the volumes of water, septic and other issues.”

Torres-Verdin said the Blacks have shown disregard for the law and environment.

Black refuted those

claims, adding he has addressed environmental concerns throughout the development process.

Horn, which has provided the engineering for the project, indicates the new site development plans will reduce impervious cover from 6.30 acres to A CALL FOR A PUBLIC 5.91 acres.

HEARING However, Kimley Horn’s Friendship Alliance analysis has been disofficials are now hoping puted by independent the plans will be brought engineers throughout the back to the Dripping Springs City Council with initial approval process of the wedding venue. an added public hearing.

“Because the plans That request comes after Black’s addition to his site have changed so much with so much unknowns, development plan and with recent citations from we are urging the city to hold a public hearing on the Texas Commission this matter,” Torres-Verdin on Enviorental Quality said. “We already know (TCEQ) on the project.

“They have not cleaned these folks don’t care about the environment. up the creek and it conWe need a public heartinues to be polluted,” ing.”

Torres-Verdin said.

Black said city officials Black said the erosion are on site at the developcontrol issues have been ment every week moniaddressed per the TCEQ requirements and he said toring the progress of the construction. the creek is clean.

He said the pollution of Dripping Springs Depthe creek was caused in uty City Administrator part by a flood that swept Ginger Faught said there through the Western are no variances with the portion of the county in new site development May, damaging erosion plans, which means it controls which have since can be administratively been addressed. approved.

“No matter what I do A stop work order is in or change, they’ll throw effect for the portion of allegations,” Black said. property affected by the “We are still building two new site plans, but the wedding spaces and this rest of the property can is going to be an event still be developed.

Additionally, analysis by facility. That is not changing.” engineering firm Kimley

health.”

A direct connection to the physicians should

prevent hospital visits and foster a closer relationship with healthcare professionals and those who typically do not have access to healthcare.

MRG officials predict the implementation of the product would save the county from needing to budget $2 million annually.

However, it is unknown as of press time how

much it could cost the county to purchase the technology from MRG. The workshop was the first step in initiating the conversation with the county, so the specifics of the program are yet to be worked out.

County Judge Ruben Becerra said the workshop was a good opportunity to start a conversation on the issue.

Police Blotter The following is a tally of all calls made to law enforcement within Hays County between June 28 and July 2, 2019.

Civil Matter................................................... 7 Information................................................. 17 Compliance Check..................................... 10 Property Lost/Found/Negl............................ 5 Sex Offender Registry.................................. 1 Alarm Business........................................... 30 Alarm Residential....................................... 28 Alarm Panic.................................................. 2 Alarm Robbery............................................. 1 Animal Calls................................................ 45 Loose Livestock......................................... 14 Assault.......................................................... 5 Sexual Assault.............................................. 3 Assist EMS................................................... 8 Assist Fire Dept............................................ 1 Assist Outside Agency............................... 15 Burglary Building ......................................... 2 Burglary Habitat........................................... 1 Burglary Vehicle............................................ 6 Criminal Mischief.......................................... 5 Fireworks...................................................... 7 Environmental Crime.................................... 3 Disturbance Noise........................................ 9 Disturbance Physical Fight........................... 6 Disturbance Verbal..................................... 18 Child Custody............................................... 5 Violation of Order ......................................... 1 Narcotics Information................................... 1 Fraud.......................................................... 11 Harassment.................................................. 7 Threat........................................................... 5 Mental Health Follow up............................... 6 Mental Health Invest..................................... 3 Mental Health Transport............................... 2 Canine Search.............................................. 1 Canine Training............................................. 1 Drone Deployment....................................... 1 Violation City Ordinance............................... 2

Runaway ...................................................... 1 Missing Person............................................. 1 Public Assist............................................... 15 Community Contact..................................... 5 Disabled Vehicle......................................... 13 Close Patrol................................................ 76 Parent Discipline Assist................................ 1 Flagged Down.............................................. 3 Welfare Concern......................................... 33 Suicidal Person............................................ 4 Investigation................................................. 1 Supplement................................................ 49 Suspicious Circumstances......................... 21 Suspicious Person...................................... 10 Suspicious Vehicle..................................... 22 Wanted Person............................................. 3 Identity Theft................................................ 1 Theft........................................................... 13 Unauth Use Vehicle ..................................... 1 Accident Minor........................................... 16 Accident Hit and Run................................... 7 Accident Major/Injury................................... 5 Abandoned/Stored Vehicle........................... 5 Traffic Hazard............................................. 28 Attempt to Locate...................................... 51 Parking Enforcement.................................. 11 Traffic Stop............................................... 319 Solicitors....................................................... 1 Trespassing/Unwanted................................. 7 911 Abandoned........................................ 134 911 Hang Up................................................ 1 911 Misdial .................................................. 1 Deadly Conduct............................................ 1 Discharge Firearm........................................ 4 Private Tow/Repo ...................................... 10 Abdominal Pain/Problem.............................. 1 EMS Response............................................. 2

Water Permit: Experts fear impact to residents Continued from pg. 1

But local experts feel Needmore Water’s permit, which seeks to pump 289 million gallons annually from the Trinity, could have more of an impact.

Trinity Edwards Springs Protection Association (TESPA) Executive Director Vanessa Puig-Williams said in an online update that Needmore’s permit equates to water used by more than 5,000 homes.

An aquifer test done by Wet Rock Groundwater Services, Needmore’s hydrogeologist, concludes a 14-foot drawdown from a well 1.95 miles from a well on Needmore Ranch.

Wet Rock also provided hydrogeology services for EP, which has been contested by experts.

James Beach with WSP Consulting in Austin testified during an April 12 hearing on a contested case against EP’s permit that the combined permits could result in a 35% loss in water volume in the Trinity Aquifer.

His calculations indicated that the Cow Creek wells near O’Neill Ranch would experience a permanent decline of 60 feet after one year, 120 feet after seven years and 175 feet after 30 years.

On July 29, the BSEACD will hold a final hearing on the status of the Needmore permit. TESPA and other experts are expected to argue for the board to deny Needmore’s permit.

Meanwhile, a task force

SO HOW MUCH ARE ELECTRO PURIFICATION AND NEEDMORE WATER ATTEMPTING TO PUMP FROM THE TRINITY AQUIFER?

• EP plans to pump 2.5 million gallons a day, or roughly one billion gallons a year, from the Trinity Aquifer.

• Needmore Water, LLC currently has a temporary permit with the Barton Springs Edwards Aquifer Conservation District to pump 179,000,000 gallons per year. The company has requested for a regular permit to produce 289,000,000 gallons a year.

has been formed by Hays County leaders to protect the Trinity Aquifer.

The task force, formed

by Hays County Pct. 3 Commissioner Lon Shell and Pct. 4 Commissioner Walt Smith, will establish a groundwater model to adequately determine the available water in the Trinity.

For Marshall Jennings, a hydrogeologist, former Texas State University professor and chair of the Hays County Task Force on Trinity Aquifer Sustainability, the impact of the two permits could span beyond the Wimberley Valley.

Jennings said Beach’s analysis all but proves the entire western portion of Hays County will feel the effect of the permit after seven years. Jennings estimates the two permits could produce water to the equivalent of 10,000 homes going online.

As chair, Jennings hopes the task force will provide scientific analysis on the available water while putting to rest the notion that EP and Needmore can pump without

On behalf of our entire staff, please accept our condolences on the passing of your loved one.

When you are ready, I would be honored to assist you in creating a monument that will express your love for years to come.

Sincerely, Brenda Keller Independent Representative

512-644-1769

harm.

“We are professionals, policy experts and scientists,” Jennings said.

“I believe we can achieve sustainability of the aquifer through the task force.”

More time could also be on the task force’s side.

EP has requested to postpone the contested case slated for September 2019, due in part to Beach’s analysis. EP’s contested case might not see a judge until April 2020.

“It’s not just Wimberley that will see the effects, I can promise you that,” Jennings said. “This will affect Dripping Springs too, and we need people to understand that these permits have a regional consequence.”

Follow these simple tips during Power Rush Hour:

Help reduce energy use during peak times from 3-7 p.m.

Raise your thermostat a few degrees.

Avoid doing laundry and select a cold water cycle.

brendakeller7@gmail.com Email or call to schedule your appointment.

Learn more at pec.coop/power-rush-hour.

Don’t run your dishwasher.