https://www.haysfreepress.com/author/4,staff-report en Wed, 24 Jun 2026 18:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26532,michael-follis-to-lead-dripping-springs-high-school-choirDRIPPING SPRINGS — A new choir director has been named to lead the program at Dripping Springs High School.A Texas native, Michael Follis recently returned to the state after spending two years in Chi...]]> Wed, 24 Jun 2026 18:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26532,michael-follis-to-lead-dripping-springs-high-school-choir https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26531,dripping-springs-high-school-names-new-technical-theatre-directorDRIPPING SPRINGS — Dripping Springs High School principal Angela Gamez named Justin Elliott as the school’s new technical theatre director.Elliott brings 21 years of experience in Texas public school...]]> Wed, 24 Jun 2026 18:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26531,dripping-springs-high-school-names-new-technical-theatre-director https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26533,kim-cousins-rob-mcclelland-sworn-in-on-dripping-springs-isd-board-of-trusteesDuring the Monday, June 15, Dripping Springs ISD Board of Trustees meeting, Kim Cousins, pictured left, was sworn in by Hays County Justice of the Peace Precinct 4 John Burns for a new three-year term...]]> Wed, 24 Jun 2026 17:50:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26533,kim-cousins-rob-mcclelland-sworn-in-on-dripping-springs-isd-board-of-trustees https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26530,new-teacher-student-support-position-jennings-appointed-to-role-in-wimberley-isdWIMBERLEY — At its regular meeting June 15, the Wimberley ISD Board of Trustees approved the creation of the director of Teacher Support and Student Growth position.Errin JenningsThe new role will be...]]> Wed, 24 Jun 2026 17:40:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26530,new-teacher-student-support-position-jennings-appointed-to-role-in-wimberley-isd https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26523,pedernales-electric-cooperative-members-elect-carlos-st-james-reelect-mark-ekrut-to-boardJOHNSON CITY — Pedernales Electric Cooperative (PEC) members have elected Carlos St. James in District 2 and reelected Mark Ekrut in District 3 to serve three-year terms on the cooperative’s board of...]]> Wed, 24 Jun 2026 16:50:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26523,pedernales-electric-cooperative-members-elect-carlos-st-james-reelect-mark-ekrut-to-board https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26522,city-of-buda-communications-team-wins-statewide-awardsBUDA — The city of Buda’s Community Relations and Destination Services Department received two first place awards from the Texas Association of Municipal Information Officers (TAMIO) at its annual con...]]> Wed, 24 Jun 2026 16:30:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26522,city-of-buda-communications-team-wins-statewide-awards https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26518,letter-to-the-editorWHY?A long time ago when my second born was sitting in the back seat with her big sister as I was driving to my parent’s Ranch House in the Hill Country, she was looking out the window at circling bir...]]> Wed, 24 Jun 2026 16:20:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26518,letter-to-the-editor https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26521,hays-county-to-host-open-house-on-eastside-campus-projectKYLE — Hays County invites the public to attend an upcoming open house to share information and gather community feedback on the Eastside Campus project at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, June 25, at Gemstone Pal...]]> Wed, 24 Jun 2026 12:30:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26521,hays-county-to-host-open-house-on-eastside-campus-project https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26510,regional-public-health-agencies-strengthen-coordination-ahead-of-fifa-world-cupSAN MARCOS  — Regional public health agencies across Central Texas have expanded coordination with regional, state and federal partners, as the region prepares to welcome an increase in visitors...]]> Wed, 17 Jun 2026 16:30:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26510,regional-public-health-agencies-strengthen-coordination-ahead-of-fifa-world-cup https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26511,kyle-area-chamber-to-host-women-s-luncheonKYLE — The Kyle Area Chamber of Commerce will host its annual She Means Business luncheon on Tuesday, June 23, bringing together business professionals, community leaders, entrepreneurs and educators...]]> Wed, 17 Jun 2026 14:05:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26511,kyle-area-chamber-to-host-women-s-luncheon https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26495,hays-county-office-of-emergency-services-to-host-9th-annual-emergency-preparedness-fairKYLE — The Hays County Office of Emergency Services (OES), in partnership with the city of Kyle, invites the community to the 9th Annual Emergency Preparedness Fair from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday,...]]> Wed, 10 Jun 2026 17:40:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26495,hays-county-office-of-emergency-services-to-host-9th-annual-emergency-preparedness-fair https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26496,sam-arrieta-named-dripping-springs-high-school-girls-wrestling-coachDRIPPING SPRINGS  — Dripping Springs ISD Athletic Director Galen Zimmerman and Dripping Springs High School principal Angela Gamez announced the hiring of Sam Arrieta as the new girls wrestling c...]]> Wed, 10 Jun 2026 17:30:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26496,sam-arrieta-named-dripping-springs-high-school-girls-wrestling-coach https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26494,alexis-pointe-senior-living-to-host-alzheimer-s-brain-awareness-conversationWIMBERLEY  — Alexis Pointe Senior Living of Wimberley will host an Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Monthly Health Talk at 11 a.m. Friday, June 12, for a focused conversation on brain health edu...]]> Wed, 10 Jun 2026 17:20:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26494,alexis-pointe-senior-living-to-host-alzheimer-s-brain-awareness-conversation https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26489,mental-health-court-invites-public-to-summer-commencement-ceremonySAN MARCOS — The Hays County Mental Health Court (MHC) announced its seventh commencement ceremony, celebrating the achievements of 18 graduating participants — the largest graduation class to date.MH...]]> Wed, 10 Jun 2026 16:30:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26489,mental-health-court-invites-public-to-summer-commencement-ceremony https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26488,hays-county-health-department-announces-partnership-with-crediblemindSAN MARCOS  — The Hays County Health Department announces its commercial partnership with CredibleMind, an intuitive platform offering localized, wellness-oriented digital content that enables em...]]> Wed, 10 Jun 2026 16:20:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26488,hays-county-health-department-announces-partnership-with-crediblemind https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26485,pedernales-electric-cooperative-appoints-christian-powell-as-ceoJOHNSON CITY — Pedernales Electric Cooperative announced Christian Powell as CEO, effective Aug. 4.Powell brings a wealth of experience and knowledge of the cooperative and utility industry. He has se...]]> Wed, 10 Jun 2026 16:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26485,pedernales-electric-cooperative-appoints-christian-powell-as-ceo https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26486,starkey-c-butch-grizzle-1943-2026Starkey C. Grizzle, affectionately known as “Butch,” passed away peacefully at his home in Mountain City on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at the age of 82.Born on August 2, 1943, Butch was a lifelong Texan...]]> Wed, 10 Jun 2026 12:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26486,starkey-c-butch-grizzle-1943-2026 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26484,hays-county-judge-ruben-becerra-addresses-new-world-screwworm-threatSAN MARCOS — Hays County Judge Ruben Becerra is encouraging ranchers, livestock owners, veterinarians, pet owners and residents to remain informed and vigilant as state and federal agencies continue e...]]> Wed, 10 Jun 2026 12:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26484,hays-county-judge-ruben-becerra-addresses-new-world-screwworm-threat https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26475,suspect-arrested-after-stolen-vehicle-crashes-into-kyle-police-department-patrol-vehicleKYLE — Troy Rabago, 49, of Austin, was arrested on multiple charges in connection with a stolen vehicle that crashed into a Kyle Police Department marked patrol vehicle Tuesday, June 2.Troy Rabago&nbs...]]> Tue, 09 Jun 2026 08:56:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26475,suspect-arrested-after-stolen-vehicle-crashes-into-kyle-police-department-patrol-vehicle https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26473,new-red-cross-partnership-creates-disaster-feeding-kitchenSAN MARCOS — The Price Center and Garden has entered into a partnership agreement with the American Red Cross Community Adaption Program (CAP). The new partnership is providing funding to the center t...]]> Wed, 03 Jun 2026 17:30:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26473,new-red-cross-partnership-creates-disaster-feeding-kitchen https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26471,new-fitness-studio-cuts-ribbon-in-dripping-springsDRIPPING SPRINGS — Dripping Sweat, a boutique fitness studio offering barre, pilates and strength training classes celebrated its ribbon cutting with the Dripping Springs Chamber of Commerce Friday, M...]]> Wed, 03 Jun 2026 17:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26471,new-fitness-studio-cuts-ribbon-in-dripping-springs https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26469,beerburg-beer-garden-hosts-grand-opening-festivitiesThe Beerburg Beer Garden celebrated its grand opening Thursday, May 28, with a ribbon cutting with the Dripping Springs Chamber of Commerce and events throughout the weekend. The Beer Garden...]]> Wed, 03 Jun 2026 16:50:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26469,beerburg-beer-garden-hosts-grand-opening-festivities https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26466,congratulations-to-the-hays-cisd-class-of-2026See the photos from Hays CISD's Graduation Class of 2026]]> Wed, 03 Jun 2026 16:20:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26466,congratulations-to-the-hays-cisd-class-of-2026 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26465,hays-county-child-protective-board-announces-award-recipientsSAN MARCOS — On May 12, 2026 the Hays County Commissioners Court issued a proclamation recognizing The Hays County Child Protective Board awardees for 2025-26.The Hays County Child Protective Board wa...]]> Wed, 03 Jun 2026 16:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26465,hays-county-child-protective-board-announces-award-recipients https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26459,man-released-from-ice-detention-after-successful-habeas-corpus-filingSAN MARCOS — Gerardo Reyes, of San Marcos, was released from the T. Don Hutto Detention Center June 1, following a successful habeas corpus filing by his legal team. After more than 60 days in detenti...]]> Wed, 03 Jun 2026 15:40:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26459,man-released-from-ice-detention-after-successful-habeas-corpus-filing https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26455,buda-man-arrested-for-selling-human-remainsKYLE — Sean Shymkiw, 24, was arrested May 27 after it was reported that he was “reselling an alleged human skull on social media,” according to the Kyle Police Department. He claimed to have purchased...]]> Wed, 03 Jun 2026 15:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26455,buda-man-arrested-for-selling-human-remains https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26463,letter-to-the-editorLAND of the FREE and HOME of the BRAVEI just heard on NPR that only 50% of qualified Americans actually vote.I love America. I am so glad that I was born in this amazing country, especially when I hea...]]> Wed, 03 Jun 2026 12:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26463,letter-to-the-editor https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26454,no-injuries-reported-following-vehicle-struck-by-train-in-downtown-buda(Editor’s Note: This story was updated as of 8:41 p.m. Tuesday, June 3)BUDA — A vehicle was struck by a train in Buda on Main Street in the morning of Tuesday, June 2, after the driver fell aslee...]]> Tue, 02 Jun 2026 17:43:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26454,no-injuries-reported-following-vehicle-struck-by-train-in-downtown-buda https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26444,rainbows-light-up-the-hill-country-skyStrong storms led to vivid rainbows over Dripping Springs Thursday, May 21. Pictured above is a double rainbow spotted off Ranch Road 12 at Glosson Road.]]> Wed, 27 May 2026 17:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26444,rainbows-light-up-the-hill-country-sky https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26439,one-last-time-students-visit-former-schools-prior-to-graduationAs students from Hays, Johnson and Lehman high schools prepared to walk the grand stage, they visited the schools that led them to their final stop: graduation. The elementary and middle school walks...]]> Wed, 27 May 2026 16:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26439,one-last-time-students-visit-former-schools-prior-to-graduation https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26438,hays-county-sheriff-s-office-arrests-two-in-dog-deaths-at-kyle-boarding-facilityKYLE — The Hays County Sheriff’s Office arrested two individuals, following an investigation of the death of two dogs that were in the care of EZ Dog Stay and Play, located in unincorporated Kyle.The...]]> Wed, 27 May 2026 16:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26438,hays-county-sheriff-s-office-arrests-two-in-dog-deaths-at-kyle-boarding-facility https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26437,hays-cisd-presents-coin-of-excellence-to-njrtoc-instructorHays CISD Superintendent Dr. Eric Wright presented Lehman High School Navy Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (NJROTC) instructor 1st Sgt. Donald Griffith with a Coin of Excellence for his leaders...]]> Wed, 27 May 2026 15:50:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26437,hays-cisd-presents-coin-of-excellence-to-njrtoc-instructor https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26452,wimberley-texans-are-state-boundThe Wimberley High School Texans baseball team poses for a photo with a back-to-back Region IV Champions poster after punching their ticket to the 4A State Semifinals. They won both games — 5-1 and 10...]]> Wed, 27 May 2026 12:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26452,wimberley-texans-are-state-bound https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26451,dripping-springs-tiger-baseball-heads-to-state-semifinalsThe Dripping Springs High School baseball team is advancing to the State Semifinals for the second consecutive season after taking down Pharr-San Juan-Alamo Early College High School 7-2 in game three...]]> Wed, 27 May 2026 12:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26451,dripping-springs-tiger-baseball-heads-to-state-semifinals https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26423,pedernales-electric-cooperative-awards-100k-in-scholarships-to-area-studentsJOHNSON CITY — Pedernales Electric Cooperative (PEC) awarded $100,000 in scholarships to 25 graduating high school students across its service area.Recipients can use their scholarship for tuition at...]]> Wed, 20 May 2026 16:50:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26423,pedernales-electric-cooperative-awards-100k-in-scholarships-to-area-students https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26422,home-grown-celebrates-new-space-in-dripping-springsHome Grown celebrated its new location — 2001 U.S. 290, Dripping Springs — with a grand opening ceremony Wednesday, May 13, with the Dripping Springs Chamber of Commerce. The storefront was born from...]]> Wed, 20 May 2026 16:40:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26422,home-grown-celebrates-new-space-in-dripping-springs https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26427,hays-county-sheriff-s-office-arrests-two-in-dog-deaths-at-kyle-boarding-facilityKYLE — The Hays County Sheriff’s Office arrested two individuals following an investigation of the death of two dogs that were in the care of EZ Dog Stay and Play, located in unincorporated Kyle....]]> Wed, 20 May 2026 14:26:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26427,hays-county-sheriff-s-office-arrests-two-in-dog-deaths-at-kyle-boarding-facility https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26424,sports-briefsLady Texans head to State SemifinalsPHOTO COURTESY OF WIMBERLEY TEXAN SOFTBALL The Wimberley High School Lady Texans team poses for a photo with the Regional Champs poster after securing the win they...]]> Wed, 20 May 2026 12:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26424,sports-briefs https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26405,kyle-police-department-arrests-houston-suspects-in-stolen-vehicle-investigationKYLE — The Kyle Police Department arrested three Houston-area suspects over the weekend after locating a stolen vehicle and preventing what investigators believe may have been criminal activity target...]]> Wed, 20 May 2026 08:59:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26405,kyle-police-department-arrests-houston-suspects-in-stolen-vehicle-investigation https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26404,national-transportation-safety-board-releases-preliminary-report-on-wimberley-plane-crashWIMBERLEY — The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) released a preliminary report detailing the fatal plane crash that occurred near Wimberley in April.At approximately 11:03 p.m. Thursday, Ap...]]> Sun, 17 May 2026 07:17:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26404,national-transportation-safety-board-releases-preliminary-report-on-wimberley-plane-crash https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26402,buda-police-department-investigates-fatal-ih-35-motorcycle-accidentBUDA — The Buda Police Department, including its Accident Investigations Unit and Crime Victim Liaison, and Hays County Precinct 5 Justice of the Peace Sandra Bryant are investigating a motorcycle acc...]]> Thu, 14 May 2026 15:48:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26402,buda-police-department-investigates-fatal-ih-35-motorcycle-accident https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26395,qualtech-automotive-celebrates-shop-remodelQualTech Automotive is a local, family-owned repair shop that has been serving customers in Austin and surrounding areas since 2010. On May 7, QualTech celebrated the remodel of its fourth location wi...]]> Wed, 13 May 2026 16:50:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26395,qualtech-automotive-celebrates-shop-remodel https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26396,fitzhugh-brewing-holds-fundraiser-for-hill-country-rescue-recoveryJennifer Neill, founder of Hill Country Rescue & Recovery, poses for a photo at her booth at a fundraiser held at Fitzhugh Brewing Saturday, May 10. Along with being able to learn about the nonpro...]]> Wed, 13 May 2026 16:40:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26396,fitzhugh-brewing-holds-fundraiser-for-hill-country-rescue-recovery https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26392,wimberley-isd-breaks-ground-on-bond-projectsWimberley ISD kicked off major construction projects from the 2025 bond with a groundbreaking ceremony Thursday, May 7. More information on the bond projects can be found at www.wimberleyisd.net/...]]> Wed, 13 May 2026 16:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26392,wimberley-isd-breaks-ground-on-bond-projects https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26389,jf-boots-montague-1944-2026JF (Boots) Montague of Kyle, Texas passed away March 30, 2026. Boots was born in Kyle, Texas on October 17, 1944, and never moved away from the town he loved.  Boots is s...]]> Wed, 13 May 2026 12:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26389,jf-boots-montague-1944-2026 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26381,guadalupe-lupe-torres-1938-2026Guadalupe Torres, better known as “Lupe”, of Kyle passed away on Monday, May 11, 2026 surrounded by his family. Born on December 13,1938 in Leon, Guanajuato, Mexico to parents Jose De La Luz and...]]> Tue, 12 May 2026 14:07:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26381,guadalupe-lupe-torres-1938-2026 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26375,pedernales-electric-cooperative-chief-executive-officer-to-step-downJOHNSON CITY  —  After more than eight years, Pedernales Electric Cooperative (PEC) CEO Julie Parsley has decided to step down from her role later this summer.“This was not an easy decision...]]> Wed, 06 May 2026 17:30:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26375,pedernales-electric-cooperative-chief-executive-officer-to-step-down https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26371,rudy-gonzalez-named-dripping-springs-middle-school-principalDRIPPING SPRINGS —  Rudy Gonzalez was named the next principal for Dripping Springs Middle School, following a unanimous decision by the Dripping Springs ISD Board of Trustees Monday, April 27.Go...]]> Wed, 06 May 2026 17:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26371,rudy-gonzalez-named-dripping-springs-middle-school-principal https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26372,bluebonnet-therapy-specialists-under-new-name-hosts-ribbon-cuttingBluebonnet Therapy Specialists, formerly eSLP Clinic, hosted a ribbon cutting with the Dripping Springs Chamber of Commerce Tuesday, April 2, in celebration of its official name change, which is to be...]]> Wed, 06 May 2026 17:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26372,bluebonnet-therapy-specialists-under-new-name-hosts-ribbon-cutting https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26370,dripping-springs-isd-names-district-teachers-of-the-yearDRIPPING SPRINGS —  Cassidy Bloys and Austin McCauley were recognized as the 2025-26 District Elementary and Secondary Teachers of the Year, respectively, during the Dripping Springs ISD Board of...]]> Wed, 06 May 2026 16:40:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26370,dripping-springs-isd-names-district-teachers-of-the-year https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26365,hays-county-sheriff-s-office-k9-buddy-celebrates-retirementPHOTO COURTESY OF HAYS COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICEHays County Sheriff’s Office K9, Buddy, celebrated his retirement with a cake donation from Woof Gang Bakery and Grooming New Braunfels. Buddy, who is alm...]]> Wed, 06 May 2026 15:50:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26365,hays-county-sheriff-s-office-k9-buddy-celebrates-retirement https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26364,city-of-buda-to-host-older-adults-resource-fairBUDA — The city of Buda invites older adults, caregivers and community members to attend the Older Adults Resource Fair from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday, May 30, at Buda City Hall. The event will...]]> Wed, 06 May 2026 15:40:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26364,city-of-buda-to-host-older-adults-resource-fair https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26353,richard-rick-eric-rosebrock-1978-2026Richard "Rick" Eric Rosebrock, age 47, of Buda, Texas passed away on April 25, 2026.Born on December 8,1978 in Bryan, Texas, Rick was the son of Bob and Linda Rosebrock. He attended Texas A&M and...]]> Sun, 03 May 2026 09:20:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26353,richard-rick-eric-rosebrock-1978-2026 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26352,investigation-remains-active-in-wimberley-plane-crash(Editor's Note: This story has been updated as of 4:07 p.m. Saturday, May 2, to include information provided by the Texas Department of Public Safety.)WIMBERLEY — An investigation is underway fol...]]> Fri, 01 May 2026 15:25:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26352,investigation-remains-active-in-wimberley-plane-crash https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26347,ribbon-cut-on-dripping-springs-library-of-wheelsDRIPPING SPRINGS —  In conjunction with the Dripping Springs Chamber of Commerce, the Dripping Springs Community Library cut the ribbon on its Library of Wheels Thursday, April 23.This new mobile...]]> Wed, 29 Apr 2026 17:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26347,ribbon-cut-on-dripping-springs-library-of-wheels https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26342,residents-gather-for-founders-dayThe annual Dripping Springs Founders Day Festival took place April 24-26 in downtown to celebrate heritage and pioneer spirit. Several vendors and shops were available for visitors to spend the day br...]]> Wed, 29 Apr 2026 16:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26342,residents-gather-for-founders-day https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26335,buda-police-department-collects-nearly-200-pounds-in-drug-enforcement-association-drug-take-back-eventThe Buda Police Department was one of many agencies nationwide to partner with the Drug Enforcement Association to take part in the National Prescription Take Back Day Saturday, April 25, seeing a tot...]]> Wed, 29 Apr 2026 15:50:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26335,buda-police-department-collects-nearly-200-pounds-in-drug-enforcement-association-drug-take-back-event https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26336,letter-to-the-editorAPPEARANCE vs REALITYGowns of red velvet and raw thinned green silk, so soft and warm on this cold winter night.Dresses bristle against each other as the elegant ladies each dance with the man they lo...]]> Wed, 29 Apr 2026 12:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26336,letter-to-the-editor https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26329,kyle-police-department-arrests-hays-cisd-teacher-for-improper-relationship-with-studentKYLE — The Kyle Police Department arrested a Lehman High School teacher after receiving a report Friday, April 24, of an inappropriate interaction between the educator and a high school student.Follow...]]> Fri, 24 Apr 2026 16:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26329,kyle-police-department-arrests-hays-cisd-teacher-for-improper-relationship-with-student https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26328,byron-c-slusherLt. Col. Byron C. Slusher, PA, U.S. Air Force (Ret.) passed away from this earth on April 21, 2026, surrounded by friends and family.  He was born in Paris Tx to Marty and Travis Slusher.  H...]]> Fri, 24 Apr 2026 14:12:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26328,byron-c-slusher https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26324,texas-mutual-insurance-company-to-award-8m-in-grant-funding-to-texas-nonprofitsAUSTIN — Texas Mutual Insurance Company will be investing $8 million in funding to support Texas nonprofits through its Working Texans Economic Opportunity and Texas Workforce Development grants.This...]]> Wed, 22 Apr 2026 17:40:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26324,texas-mutual-insurance-company-to-award-8m-in-grant-funding-to-texas-nonprofits https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26322,pam-rehab-alexis-pointe-team-up-for-flower-bouquet-workshopAlexis Pointe of Wimberley Senior Living residents participate in a flower bouquet workshop, with the help of PAM Rehab, earlier this month. “PAM Rehab is a fantastic partner and this workshop was a p...]]> Wed, 22 Apr 2026 17:20:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26322,pam-rehab-alexis-pointe-team-up-for-flower-bouquet-workshop https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26321,assistant-superintendent-to-leave-wimberley-isdWIMBERLEY —  Jason Valentine, current assistant superintendent for Wimberley ISD, was named the lone finalist for the position of superintendent at Palacios ISD Tuesday, April 14.Valentine has wo...]]> Wed, 22 Apr 2026 17:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26321,assistant-superintendent-to-leave-wimberley-isd https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26319,dripping-springs-middle-school-s-nora-gillum-captures-third-consecutive-texas-history-day-contest-titleDRIPPING SPRINGS — Nora Gillum, an eighth-grade student at Dripping Springs Middle School, captured a third consecutive title at the Texas History Day Contest Saturday, April 11, at The University of...]]> Wed, 22 Apr 2026 17:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26319,dripping-springs-middle-school-s-nora-gillum-captures-third-consecutive-texas-history-day-contest-title https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26318,dripping-springs-high-school-orchestra-gets-sweepstakesThe Dripping Springs High School orchestra program, directed by Gregory Perrin, received top ratings from all six judges at the University Interscholastic League Region 18 Concert and Sightreading Con...]]> Wed, 22 Apr 2026 16:50:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26318,dripping-springs-high-school-orchestra-gets-sweepstakes https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26320,dripping-springs-high-school-names-top-10DRIPPING SPRINGS — Dripping Springs High School announced the Top 10 students by academic rank for the Class of 2026 last week, with Sanvi Surapaneni as valedictorian and Bella Rose as salutatorian.Ro...]]> Wed, 22 Apr 2026 16:40:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26320,dripping-springs-high-school-names-top-10 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26315,ascension-seton-hays-announces-new-president-of-hospitalKYLE — Megan Drake has been named president of Ascension Seton Hays in Kyle, which includes Ascension Seton Bastrop.Drake brings an extensive background in healthcare administration and a proven track...]]> Wed, 22 Apr 2026 16:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26315,ascension-seton-hays-announces-new-president-of-hospital https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26313,hays-cisd-recognizes-unsung-heroes-at-volunteer-of-the-year-luncheonKYLE — Hays CISD rolled out the red carpet April 17 for the annual Volunteer of the Year luncheon at the Academic Support Center, celebrating those who give their time to help the students, staff and...]]> Wed, 22 Apr 2026 16:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26313,hays-cisd-recognizes-unsung-heroes-at-volunteer-of-the-year-luncheon https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26308,debbie-ingalsbe-recognized-for-service-on-texas-association-of-counties-boardHays County Precinct 1 commissioner Debbie Ingalsbe hugs Susan Redford, executive director, after receiving a service award for her work on the Texas Association of Counties (TAC) Board of Directors d...]]> Wed, 22 Apr 2026 15:40:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26308,debbie-ingalsbe-recognized-for-service-on-texas-association-of-counties-board https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26304,science-wows-students-at-cullen-elementary-schoolStudents at Cullen Elementary School enjoyed a visit from presenter and Yuck Show! Creator Brian Whittington. Through various curriculum-based games, students were able to learn about several principl...]]> Wed, 22 Apr 2026 15:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26304,science-wows-students-at-cullen-elementary-school https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26300,wimberley-high-school-earns-fourth-place-for-one-act-playThe Wimberley Lone Star Theatre One Act Play production of "The Marriage of Bette and Boo” saw its competition season come to an end Tuesday, April 7, at the Area contest. Wimberley High School was na...]]> Wed, 15 Apr 2026 17:30:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26300,wimberley-high-school-earns-fourth-place-for-one-act-play https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26299,wimberley-players-presents-fast-paced-political-comedy-the-outsiderWMIBERLEY —  The Wimberley Players will present, “The Outsider,” Paul Slade Smith’s fast-moving political comedy, April 24 through May 17 at the Wimberley Playhouse.Directed by Whitney Marlett, t...]]> Wed, 15 Apr 2026 17:20:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26299,wimberley-players-presents-fast-paced-political-comedy-the-outsider https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26298,salute-liquor-cuts-ribbon-in-dripping-springsThe Dripping Springs Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting Thursday, April 9, for Salute Liquor — a new, friendly, well-curated neighborhood liquor store offering a broad selection of bourbon, whi...]]> Wed, 15 Apr 2026 17:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26298,salute-liquor-cuts-ribbon-in-dripping-springs https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26296,dripping-springs-breaks-ground-on-second-high-schoolDripping Springs ISD celebrated the beginning of construction on its second high school Monday, April 13, at a groundbreaking ceremony off of Darden Hill Road.The high school, which has not yet been n...]]> Wed, 15 Apr 2026 16:50:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26296,dripping-springs-breaks-ground-on-second-high-school https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26287,90-year-old-buda-woman-participates-in-31st-capital-10kEsperanza “Hope” Palacios, 90, of Buda, recently ran in the Capital 10K with her five children in tow, calling themselves the Guardians of Hope, in a redemption arc after being tripped by a runner pus...]]> Wed, 15 Apr 2026 16:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26287,90-year-old-buda-woman-participates-in-31st-capital-10k https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26285,hays-county-appraisal-district-releases-2026-preliminary-appraised-valuesSAN MARCOS — The Hays Central Appraisal District (CAD) scheduled the mailing of the 2026 Appraisal Notices to most property owners for April 1. All information included with the notice should be revie...]]> Wed, 15 Apr 2026 15:40:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26285,hays-county-appraisal-district-releases-2026-preliminary-appraised-values https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26278,lehman-high-school-baseball-team-to-finish-season-amid-bullying-investigation(Editor's Note: This story was updated as of 1:36 p.m. Tuesday, April 14, to reflect new information provided by Hays CISD.)KYLE — The Lehman High School baseball program will move forward with its se...]]> Fri, 10 Apr 2026 15:24:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26278,lehman-high-school-baseball-team-to-finish-season-amid-bullying-investigation https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26277,lehman-high-school-students-employee-suspended-amid-baseball-team-investigationKYLE — Hays CISD has suspended 10 students and one employee in connection with a pending investigation involving members of the Lehman High School baseball program.District and campus administrat...]]> Fri, 10 Apr 2026 08:55:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26277,lehman-high-school-students-employee-suspended-amid-baseball-team-investigation https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26276,kyle-woman-gets-20-years-in-prison-for-arsonSAN MARCOS — Lawanda Moreno pleaded guilty to arson with intent to damage a habitation, a first-degree felony, and was sentenced by Judge Tracie Wright-Reneau March 17 to 20 years in prison for a stru...]]> Thu, 09 Apr 2026 10:38:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26276,kyle-woman-gets-20-years-in-prison-for-arson https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26271,dripping-springs-isd-now-accepting-out-of-district-transfer-applicationsDRIPPING SPRINGS — Dripping Springs ISD has begun accepting out-of-district transfer applications for students in grades kindergarten through the sixth grade who reside in Texas, but live outside the...]]> Wed, 08 Apr 2026 17:20:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26271,dripping-springs-isd-now-accepting-out-of-district-transfer-applications https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26270,dripping-springs-isd-names-walnut-springs-elementary-principalDr. Leanna PestaDRIPPING SPRINGS — Dripping Springs ISD announced the appointment of Dr. Leanna Pesta as the next principal for Walnut Springs Elementary School after the DSISD Board of Trustees unani...]]> Wed, 08 Apr 2026 17:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26270,dripping-springs-isd-names-walnut-springs-elementary-principal https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26268,dripping-springs-isd-to-host-groundbreaking-for-second-high-schoolDRIPPING SPRINGS — Dripping Springs ISD will host a groundbreaking ceremony for its second high school at 5:30 p.m. Monday, April 13, at the site, located next to Cypress Springs Elementary School.The...]]> Wed, 08 Apr 2026 17:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26268,dripping-springs-isd-to-host-groundbreaking-for-second-high-school https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26269,dripping-springs-sports-club-cuts-ribbon-on-facilityDRIPPING SPRINGS — Dripping Springs Sports Club (DSSC) celebrated its official ribbon cutting Thursday, April 2, as it continues to grow as a premier destination for fitness, training and community.Th...]]> Wed, 08 Apr 2026 16:50:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26269,dripping-springs-sports-club-cuts-ribbon-on-facility https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26255,hays-county-to-host-open-house-on-fm-2001-improvementsKYLE — Hays County will host an in-person open house April 23 to share updates and gather public input on planned improvements to FM 2001.The project includes safety improvements and roadway realignme...]]> Wed, 08 Apr 2026 15:50:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26255,hays-county-to-host-open-house-on-fm-2001-improvements https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26256,buda-edc-introduces-the-depot-on-main-in-downtown-budaBUDA — The Buda Economic Development Corporation (Buda EDC) recently announced The Depot on Main, an innovative retail incubator and community marketplace designed to elevate local commerce and celebr...]]> Wed, 08 Apr 2026 15:40:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26256,buda-edc-introduces-the-depot-on-main-in-downtown-buda https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26261,city-of-kyle-launches-tell-kyle-engagement-hub-invites-residents-to-take-budget-surveyKYLE — The city of Kyle has launched a new service to increase residential feedback.As the city of Kyle continues to grow, there are more opportunities for residents to stay informed and contribute to...]]> Wed, 08 Apr 2026 15:20:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26261,city-of-kyle-launches-tell-kyle-engagement-hub-invites-residents-to-take-budget-survey https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26254,city-gears-up-for-buda-s-145th-birthdayThe annual Buda's Birthday celebration will be held April 10-12. Starting off Friday night, Meridian and Willie's Joint will kick off the festivities with free live music and drink specials. The main...]]> Wed, 08 Apr 2026 15:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26254,city-gears-up-for-buda-s-145th-birthday https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26275,department-of-labor-recovers-85k-in-back-wages-from-tip-pool-violations-at-nate-s-in-buda(Editor's note: This story was updated as of 1:48 p.m. Tuesday, April 14, to reflect new information provided by the U.S. Department of Labor)BUDA — An investigation conducted by the United States Dep...]]> Wed, 08 Apr 2026 12:12:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26275,department-of-labor-recovers-85k-in-back-wages-from-tip-pool-violations-at-nate-s-in-buda https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26263,lehman-lobos-host-easter-at-the-ballparkThe Easter Bunny and Lehman High School Lobos mascot, Louie, pose for a photo with the school’s baseball team at the Easter at the Ballpark event, held Tuesday, March 31. Next up is the Autism Awarene...]]> Wed, 08 Apr 2026 12:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26263,lehman-lobos-host-easter-at-the-ballpark https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26251,city-of-kyle-announces-departure-of-city-manager-bryan-langleyKYLE –– On Tuesday, April 7, the city of Kyle announced the upcoming departure of city manager Bryan Langley, who has accepted a position with the city of Goodyear, Arizona.Langley has served the...]]> Tue, 07 Apr 2026 16:22:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26251,city-of-kyle-announces-departure-of-city-manager-bryan-langley https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26246,hays-county-cuts-ribbon-on-karst-canyon-preserveHays County officials cut the ribbon for Karst Canyon Preserve Friday, March 27, in front of more than 100 residents in attendance. The 175 acres of protected land — which has access through Jacob’s W...]]> Wed, 01 Apr 2026 17:40:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26246,hays-county-cuts-ribbon-on-karst-canyon-preserve https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26245,salt-light-wellness-spa-opens-in-dripping-springsDRIPPING SPRINGS— Salt & Light, a locally owned wellness spa in Dripping Springs, celebrated its ribbon cutting Thursday, March 26, marking the opening of a space intentionally designed for rest,...]]> Wed, 01 Apr 2026 17:30:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26245,salt-light-wellness-spa-opens-in-dripping-springs https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26240,johnson-high-school-student-named-candidate-in-scholars-programBUDA —  Ava Schlotterbeck, a graduating senior at Johnson High School, has been named one of more than 5,000 candidates in the 2026 U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.The candidates were selected...]]> Wed, 01 Apr 2026 16:40:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26240,johnson-high-school-student-named-candidate-in-scholars-program https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26239,apex-cancer-care-celebrates-one-yearAPEX Cancer Care celebrated its one year anniversary Wednesday, March 25, with a ribbon cutting. The facility aimed to expand access to urologic and cancer care for the Kyle community. Since opening,...]]> Wed, 01 Apr 2026 16:30:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26239,apex-cancer-care-celebrates-one-year https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26236,hays-county-criminal-district-attorney-s-office-hosts-autism-in-criminal-justiceSAN MARCOS — The Office of Hays County Criminal District Attorney Kelly Higgins announced the successful hosting of a multi-agency “Autism in Criminal Justice Settings” training.The training, held Mar...]]> Wed, 01 Apr 2026 16:20:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26236,hays-county-criminal-district-attorney-s-office-hosts-autism-in-criminal-justice https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26217,hays-cisd-director-of-fine-arts-receives-national-honorPatricia Moreno, director of fine arts for Hays CISD, was named the  recipient of the Organization of American Kodaly Educators (OAKE) 2026 Outstanding Administrator and was awarded the honor dur...]]> Wed, 25 Mar 2026 16:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26217,hays-cisd-director-of-fine-arts-receives-national-honor https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26218,buda-seeks-resident-input-in-community-wide-surveyBUDA — The city of Buda is launching the Polco National Community Survey (NCS) to gather input from residents on topics, such as public safety, infrastructure and quality of life. The survey provides...]]> Wed, 25 Mar 2026 16:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26218,buda-seeks-resident-input-in-community-wide-survey https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26214,hays-county-opens-social-service-grant-applicationSAN MARCOS — Hays County’s Social Service Grant application for fiscal year 2027 is now open.According to Hays County Precinct 1 commissioner Debbie Ingalsbe, the grant program provides funds to estab...]]> Wed, 25 Mar 2026 15:40:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26214,hays-county-opens-social-service-grant-application https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26193,letter-to-the-editorThe DucksTen little ducks, all in a rowWiggle waggle, wiggle waggle to- and- fro.But the funny little duck, with the feathers on his back, he ruled the others with a Quack, Quack, Quack. He ruled the...]]> Wed, 18 Mar 2026 12:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26193,letter-to-the-editor https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26199,susan-marie-drews-1947-2026Susan Marie Drews (nee Behne) was an outgoing woman who never met a stranger. She delighted in wildlife conservation efforts at her church, Unity of Wimberley, Texas. She also loved sharing home baked...]]> Wed, 18 Mar 2026 12:05:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26199,susan-marie-drews-1947-2026