https://www.haysfreepress.com/author/4,staff-report en Thu, 24 Sep 2026 11:22:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26811,letter-to-the-editorMore than 1.2 million Texans have been placed on the state’s “suspense” list. You could be among them, making voting a little more difficult for you during the early voting period, Oct. 19-30, or duri...]]> Thu, 24 Sep 2026 11:22:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26811,letter-to-the-editor https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26810,our-opinion-but-did-you-read-the-storyEDITOR’S NOTE: This editorial represents the opinion of the Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch and is separate from the newspaper’s news reporting.Merriam-Webster defines a headline as, “a head of a newspa...]]> Thu, 24 Sep 2026 10:30:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26810,our-opinion-but-did-you-read-the-story https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26809,laurel-franklin-hall-1938-2026Laurel Franklin Hall, 88, a Driftwood native whose life was shaped by family, community and a love of the outdoors, passed away on September 19, 2026, surrounded by his loving family.Laurel's roots in...]]> Thu, 24 Sep 2026 09:04:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26809,laurel-franklin-hall-1938-2026 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26808,hays-hawks-volleyball-loses-to-bulldogs-bounces-back-against-eaglesThe Hays High School Hawks volleyball team hosted the Bowie High School Bulldogs Tuesday, Sept. 15, losing 3-1 (22-25, 23-25, 26-24, 21-25). Later in the week, the Hawks bounced back with a 3-1 w...]]> Wed, 23 Sep 2026 18:20:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26808,hays-hawks-volleyball-loses-to-bulldogs-bounces-back-against-eagles https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26807,lehman-lobos-fall-to-0-2-in-district-following-loss-to-boerne-championLehman High School Lobos football player Dennerick Toliver disrupts a possible touchdown during the team’s home game against the Boerne-Champion High School Chargers Friday, Sept. 18. Despite the play...]]> Wed, 23 Sep 2026 18:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26807,lehman-lobos-fall-to-0-2-in-district-following-loss-to-boerne-champion https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26804,wimberley-texans-football-remains-undefeatedThe Wimberley High School Texans football team traveled the Lampasas High School to face the Badgers as they prepare for upcoming district play. The Texans remain undefeated after taking down the Badg...]]> Wed, 23 Sep 2026 17:20:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26804,wimberley-texans-football-remains-undefeated https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26802,wolfe-physical-therapy-celebrates-growth-in-dripping-springsDRIPPING SPRINGS — Wolfe Physical Therapy celebrated its ribbon cutting and continued growth in the Dripping Springs community, along with the Dripping Springs Chamber of Commerce, Friday, Sept. 18.&n...]]> Wed, 23 Sep 2026 17:20:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26802,wolfe-physical-therapy-celebrates-growth-in-dripping-springs https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26800,hays-county-announces-fy-2027-parks-fee-schedule-operating-hoursSAN MARCOS — Hays County Parks and Natural Resources announced its fiscal year 2027 fee schedule and operating hours for county parks, preserves and natural areas, effective Oct. 1.Except as noted els...]]> Wed, 23 Sep 2026 17:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26800,hays-county-announces-fy-2027-parks-fee-schedule-operating-hours https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26799,dripping-springs-hoco-court-announcedThe freshman Duke and Duchess nominees include Pema Fithen, left, Ellie Rios, Isla Foster, Cooper Hovik, Brynna McMains, Preston Hubble, Tyler Bell, Jack Marble. Not Pictured: Gavin Thomas, Maxwell Sh...]]> Wed, 23 Sep 2026 16:50:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26799,dripping-springs-hoco-court-announced https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26798,therapy-adventures-celebrates-new-dripping-springs-locationDRIPPING SPRINGS — Therapy Adventures recently celebrated the relocation and expansion of its pediatric therapy practice with a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the Dripping Springs Chamber of Commer...]]> Wed, 23 Sep 2026 16:40:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26798,therapy-adventures-celebrates-new-dripping-springs-location https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26797,the-community-mission-announces-new-kyle-hub-and-virtual-pantryKYLE — The Community Mission is expanding its ministry across Central Texas with the opening of a new Community Mission Hub in Kyle, serving individuals and families throughout the Kyle and Buda area....]]> Wed, 23 Sep 2026 16:30:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26797,the-community-mission-announces-new-kyle-hub-and-virtual-pantry https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26796,tax-office-to-launch-new-property-tax-software-after-more-than-20-yearsSAN MARCOS — The Hays County Tax Office is upgrading its property tax software for the first time in more than 20 years, marking a significant modernization of the systems used to serve Hays County ta...]]> Wed, 23 Sep 2026 16:20:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26796,tax-office-to-launch-new-property-tax-software-after-more-than-20-years https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26805,patricia-patsy-evelyn-gloor-hurlbut-1938-2026Patsy was born on July 22, 1938 in Corpus Christi, Texas to Reuben Gloor and Alma Schwarz Gloor.  She went to be in Paradise on September 15, 2026 at the age of 88.Patsy was born and raised in an...]]> Wed, 23 Sep 2026 13:02:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26805,patricia-patsy-evelyn-gloor-hurlbut-1938-2026 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26787,multiple-agencies-respond-to-discovery-of-explosive-materials-near-wimberleyWIMBERLEY — At approximately 8:30 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 17, the Hays County Combined Emergency Communications Center received a call about the discovery of suspected military-type and homemade explosiv...]]> Sun, 20 Sep 2026 12:07:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26787,multiple-agencies-respond-to-discovery-of-explosive-materials-near-wimberley https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26786,hats-off-for-veterans-welcomes-kyle-police-sergeant-to-advisory-boardTimothy OwensKYLE — Hats Off For Veterans (HOFV), a Texas-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting veterans through education, professional development and mental health resource...]]> Thu, 17 Sep 2026 13:05:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26786,hats-off-for-veterans-welcomes-kyle-police-sergeant-to-advisory-board https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26784,family-owned-business-cuts-ribbon-in-dripping-springsDRIPPING SPRINGS — Rick's Dry Cleaners opened a new location in Dripping Springs, expanding along the growing US 290 corridor.Rick's is a family-owned business serving Texas since 1987 and offers dry-...]]> Wed, 16 Sep 2026 17:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26784,family-owned-business-cuts-ribbon-in-dripping-springs https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26777,buda-fire-department-reflects-on-25th-anniversary-of-9-11Members of the Buda Fire Department gathered Friday, Sept. 11, to remember the lives lost in the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Following a brief ceremony, participants donned their bunker gear an...]]> Wed, 16 Sep 2026 16:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26777,buda-fire-department-reflects-on-25th-anniversary-of-9-11 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26772,texas-state-university-project-will-launch-floating-wetlands-in-lake-kyle-to-improve-water-qualitySAN MARCOS — Texas State University researcher Sangchul Hwang, Ph.D., P.E., is leading a city of Kyle-funded project that will deploy floating wetlands to improve water quality in Lake Kyle. The proje...]]> Wed, 16 Sep 2026 16:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26772,texas-state-university-project-will-launch-floating-wetlands-in-lake-kyle-to-improve-water-quality https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26768,art-for-allIn 2025, representatives from four prominent Central Texas arts organizations formalized a groundbreaking Hays County Arts Alliance aimed at connecting events and enhancing communication across the re...]]> Wed, 16 Sep 2026 15:30:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26768,art-for-all https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26771,beverly-dianne-cooper-1944-2026Beverly Dianne Cooper, lovingly known as Dianne, passed away peacefully on August 25, 2026, in Driftwood, Texas, with her devoted husband, Darrell, by her side. She was 82 years old.Dianne was born on...]]> Wed, 16 Sep 2026 12:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26771,beverly-dianne-cooper-1944-2026 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26763,man-arrested-after-fatal-motorcycle-crash-in-kyleKYLE — The Kyle Police Department has arrested a man following an investigation into a fatal crash.Alejandro Ortiz-FernandezAt approximately 9:55 p.m. Aug. 23, officers responded to a major crash invo...]]> Tue, 15 Sep 2026 19:27:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26763,man-arrested-after-fatal-motorcycle-crash-in-kyle https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26756,mosquito-trap-tests-positive-for-west-nile-virus-in-wimberleyWIMBERLEY — Hays County Development Services (HCDS) Mosquito Surveillance Program has received confirmation from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) that a mosquito trap sample collec...]]> Wed, 09 Sep 2026 17:20:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26756,mosquito-trap-tests-positive-for-west-nile-virus-in-wimberley https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26755,wimberley-community-civic-club-welcomes-new-publicity-chairWIMBERLEY  — The Wimberley Community Civic Club (WCCC) announced the appointment of Dee Marsh as publicity chair for the 2026-27 fiscal year.A longtime marketing and public relations professional...]]> Wed, 09 Sep 2026 17:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26755,wimberley-community-civic-club-welcomes-new-publicity-chair https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26754,texas-hill-county-diesel-and-automotive-opens-in-dripping-springsDRIPPPING SPRINGS  —Texas Hill Country Diesel and Automotive marked its opening with a ribbon cutting Sept. 4 with the Dripping Springs Chamber of Commerce.Forty years ago, a dream and vision too...]]> Wed, 09 Sep 2026 17:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26754,texas-hill-county-diesel-and-automotive-opens-in-dripping-springs https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26762,buda-police-seek-public-s-help-identifying-suspects-in-aggravated-robberyBUDA — Buda Police Department detectives, with assistance from the Texas Rangers Division of the Texas Department of Public Safety, are seeking the public’s help in identifying suspects involved...]]> Wed, 09 Sep 2026 16:24:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26762,buda-police-seek-public-s-help-identifying-suspects-in-aggravated-robbery https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26747,texas-state-university-earns-award-from-courseraSAN MARCOS — Texas State University has earned an Outstanding Achievement Award from Coursera for its Coursera Career Academy initiative. TXST was recognized for demonstrating excellence in learner en...]]> Wed, 09 Sep 2026 16:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26747,texas-state-university-earns-award-from-coursera https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26746,suspect-arrested-after-stolen-vehicle-with-infant-inside-recoveredKYLE —  A Bastrop man was arrested Monday, Aug. 31, following a series of crimes across Kyle and Buda, including the theft of multiple vehicles and one vehicle with a 5-month-old child inside, pr...]]> Wed, 09 Sep 2026 16:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26746,suspect-arrested-after-stolen-vehicle-with-infant-inside-recovered https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26738,sifuentes-sentenced-to-50-years-for-shooting-police-officerSAN MARCOS — The office of Hays County Criminal District Attorney Kelly Higgins announced that on Friday, Aug. 28 25-year-old Joseph Sifuentes was sentenced to 50 years in prison for the offense of ag...]]> Fri, 04 Sep 2026 12:57:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26738,sifuentes-sentenced-to-50-years-for-shooting-police-officer https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26736,city-of-dripping-springs-new-utility-rate-to-go-in-effectDRIPPING SPRINGS — City of Dripping Springs residents and commercial businesses will see new utility rates on their September bill.This follows Dripping Springs City Council unanimously approving wate...]]> Wed, 02 Sep 2026 16:50:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26736,city-of-dripping-springs-new-utility-rate-to-go-in-effect https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26735,honey-s-house-assisted-living-celebrates-grand-openingAUSTIN — Honey's House Assisted Living celebrated its grand opening Aug. 27, welcoming nearly 100 guests to its new home at 11013 Signal Hill Drive, Austin. The boutique, 22-bed assisted living commun...]]> Wed, 02 Sep 2026 16:40:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26735,honey-s-house-assisted-living-celebrates-grand-opening https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26734,dripping-springs-high-school-students-earn-record-286-industry-certificationsDRIPPING SPRINGS  — Dripping Springs High School shattered a school record in 2026, with more than 250 students earning a total of 286 industry-based certifications through the school’s Career &a...]]> Wed, 02 Sep 2026 16:30:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26734,dripping-springs-high-school-students-earn-record-286-industry-certifications https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26733,inaugural-women-of-worth-celebration-announces-2026-award-winnersDRIPPING SPRINGS  — Women from across the Dripping Springs community came together Thursday, Aug. 27, for the inaugural Women of Worth (WOW!) Celebration, an afternoon created to celebrate the wo...]]> Wed, 02 Sep 2026 16:20:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26733,inaugural-women-of-worth-celebration-announces-2026-award-winners https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26724,city-and-buda-economic-development-corporation-partner-to-redevelop-buda-championship-park-to-expand-tourismBUDA — Buda City Council recently accepted a total of $3 million in investment from the Buda Economic Development Corporation (EDC) to support the expansion of Buda Championship Park and grow sports t...]]> Wed, 02 Sep 2026 15:50:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26724,city-and-buda-economic-development-corporation-partner-to-redevelop-buda-championship-park-to-expand-tourism https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26720,letter-to-the-editorThe ten-acre septic rule buyers bring to Hays County does not apply hereMany rural land buyers arrive in Hays County carrying a rule they heard somewhere: build a single family home on ten or more acr...]]> Wed, 02 Sep 2026 12:30:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26720,letter-to-the-editor https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26713,attorney-claims-escape-charge-on-inmate-distracts-from-systemic-issuesSAN MARCOS — Xavier Isaiah Gutierrez left the Hays County Jail in July, after allegedly impersonating another inmate and was subsequently charged with escape. Now, local attorney Chevo Pastrano s...]]> Fri, 28 Aug 2026 08:41:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26713,attorney-claims-escape-charge-on-inmate-distracts-from-systemic-issues https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26711,assistant-coach-promoted-to-head-of-dripping-springs-tiger-baseball-programDRIPPING SPRINGS — Stephen Szkotak has been promoted to head coach of the Dripping Springs High School Tiger baseball program.A 2005 graduate of DSHS, Szkotak has served as the assistant coach for Tig...]]> Wed, 26 Aug 2026 17:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26711,assistant-coach-promoted-to-head-of-dripping-springs-tiger-baseball-program https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26701,buda-city-council-approves-maximum-proposed-rate-for-fy-2027BUDA — Buda City Manager Micah Grau presented the proposed budget to city council at a special meeting Thursday, Aug. 13, during which council was required to take a record vote on the maximum propose...]]> Wed, 26 Aug 2026 16:20:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26701,buda-city-council-approves-maximum-proposed-rate-for-fy-2027 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26700,christus-health-and-texas-state-university-expand-scholarship-support-for-student-athletesSAN MARCOS — Texas State University and CHRISTUS Health are expanding their partnership through a new commitment to support student-athlete scholarships and success.Through this expanded commitment, C...]]> Wed, 26 Aug 2026 16:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26700,christus-health-and-texas-state-university-expand-scholarship-support-for-student-athletes https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26699,pedernales-electric-cooperative-power-play-award-nominations-openJOHNSON CITY — Pedernales Electric Cooperative (PEC) is accepting nominations through Sept. 17 for its Power Player Award.The award recognizes high school students who exemplify the "cooperative diffe...]]> Wed, 26 Aug 2026 15:50:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26699,pedernales-electric-cooperative-power-play-award-nominations-open https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26695,local-municipal-candidates-announced-for-november-election-following-filing-deadlineHAYS COUNTY — The municipal filing deadline occurred Monday. Aug. 17, for the upcoming Nov. 3 election. Now, residents can begin determining who they want to represent them in the coming years.Hays Co...]]> Wed, 26 Aug 2026 15:30:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26695,local-municipal-candidates-announced-for-november-election-following-filing-deadline https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26690,students-head-back-to-school-at-dripping-springs-isdAbove, Superintendent Dr. Holly Morris-Kuentz helps welcome students back to school at Dripping Springs ISD campuses Wednesday, Aug. 12.]]> Wed, 19 Aug 2026 17:20:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26690,students-head-back-to-school-at-dripping-springs-isd https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26689,the-clean-home-crew-celebrates-in-dripping-springsDRIPPING SPRINGS— Family- and veteran-owned cleaning company, The Clean Home Crew, cut the ribbon on its Dripping Springs business Tuesday, Aug. 11, marking two years of serving the community.Founded...]]> Wed, 19 Aug 2026 17:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26689,the-clean-home-crew-celebrates-in-dripping-springs https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26678,sunscout-to-establish-manufacturing-operations-in-budaBUDA — The Buda Economic Development Corporation (Buda EDC) announced that SunScout Holding Limited (NYSE American and NYSE Texas: SNSC), a cleantech robotics company, will build a new manufacturing f...]]> Wed, 19 Aug 2026 16:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26678,sunscout-to-establish-manufacturing-operations-in-buda https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26677,letter-to-the-editorDear Editor,I am amazed at the lack of outage over the total dismantling of our democracy by Emperor Trump + his followers. It should be easy to draw analogies between situations — Trump’s efforts to...]]> Wed, 19 Aug 2026 12:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26677,letter-to-the-editor https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26686,howard-carpenter-peabody-1932-2026Howard Carpenter Peabody (known by his family as “Papa”) was born on November 20, 1932, in Rome, New York, to Art and Olive Peabody. When Howard was a teenager, the family moved to Tucson, Arizona. Th...]]> Wed, 19 Aug 2026 12:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26686,howard-carpenter-peabody-1932-2026 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26669,buc-ee-s-san-marcos-now-openThe highly-anticipated opening of Buc-ee’s San Marcos occurred Wednesday, Aug. 12. Located at 3245 N. IH-35, just on the line between San Marcos and Kyle, the travel center is open 24 hours a day, sev...]]> Wed, 19 Aug 2026 12:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26669,buc-ee-s-san-marcos-now-open https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26668,hays-county-commissioners-court-meeting-left-without-quorumSAN MARCOS — A special-called meeting of the Hays County Commissioners Court to discuss a potential health district measure was adjourned without discussion, due to a lack of quorum, Monday, Aug. 17.L...]]> Tue, 18 Aug 2026 10:41:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26668,hays-county-commissioners-court-meeting-left-without-quorum https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26667,hays-county-sheriff-s-office-investigating-inmate-death-at-the-hays-county-jailSAN MARCOS — The death of an inmate at the Hays County Jail is now under investigation by the Hays County Sheriff’s Office.According to a news release, at approximately 3:26 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 16, duri...]]> Mon, 17 Aug 2026 09:15:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26667,hays-county-sheriff-s-office-investigating-inmate-death-at-the-hays-county-jail https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26666,first-human-positive-case-of-west-nile-virus-found-in-hays-countySAN MARCOS — The Hays County Health Department (HCHD) received notification from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Aug. 12 of the first laboratory-confirmed human case of West Nile...]]> Thu, 13 Aug 2026 09:31:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26666,first-human-positive-case-of-west-nile-virus-found-in-hays-county https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26663,drip-swag-shop-cuts-ribbon-on-brick-and-mortar-boutiqueDRIPPING SPRINGS— What started as a small custom spirit apparel business has grown into something much bigger than what Drip Swag Shop owner Katie Walker ever imagined. The new brick-and-mortar boutiq...]]> Wed, 12 Aug 2026 16:40:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26663,drip-swag-shop-cuts-ribbon-on-brick-and-mortar-boutique https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26658,hays-hawks-hit-new-multipurpose-activity-centerThe Hays Hawk Marching Band and Color Guard held its first full band rehearsal in the school’s new multipurpose activity center Aug. 9. The facilities were funded through the May 2025 bond and complet...]]> Wed, 12 Aug 2026 16:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26658,hays-hawks-hit-new-multipurpose-activity-center https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26657,therapy-center-of-buda-to-move-to-new-locationBUDA — Therapy Center of Buda (TCOB), a locally-owned therapy practice that has served Buda and surrounding communities since 2008, will be seeing clients at its new location at 3480 Jack C. Hays Trai...]]> Wed, 12 Aug 2026 16:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26657,therapy-center-of-buda-to-move-to-new-location https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26656,buda-city-manager-files-proposed-fy-2027-budgetBUDA — Buda city manager Micah Grau filed the city’s proposed budget for fiscal year (FY) 2027 and the Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) with the city clerk Aug. 7.The proposed budget outlines...]]> Wed, 12 Aug 2026 15:50:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26656,buda-city-manager-files-proposed-fy-2027-budget https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26653,letter-to-the-editorPeople who Write   Thank you —- all of you — for the Books, Opinions, Newspapers, Poems, letters to Representatives and Senators in Congress and State legislators, letters to local city repr...]]> Wed, 12 Aug 2026 12:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26653,letter-to-the-editor https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26644,dripping-springs-isd-students-work-to-national-champions-titleDRIPPING SPRINGS — Twenty-one Dripping Springs ISD students helped lead the Central Texas Shooting Team to a National Championship.The team competed at the Scholastic Shooting Sports Foundation (SSSF)...]]> Wed, 05 Aug 2026 17:40:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26644,dripping-springs-isd-students-work-to-national-champions-title https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26641,dripping-springs-high-school-baseball-coach-named-dripping-springs-isd-assistant-athletic-directorDRIPPING SPRINGS  — Former Dripping Springs High School head baseball coach Chris Payne was named the new assistant athletic director for Dripping Springs ISD.Chris PayneDuring his 20 years leadi...]]> Wed, 05 Aug 2026 17:30:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26641,dripping-springs-high-school-baseball-coach-named-dripping-springs-isd-assistant-athletic-director https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26642,new-dripping-springs-high-school-swimming-coach-selectedDRIPPING SPRINGS  — David Annen was named as the new head swimming coach for Dripping Springs High School.David AnnenAnnen joins Dripping Springs ISD after serving five years as the head swimming...]]> Wed, 05 Aug 2026 17:20:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26642,new-dripping-springs-high-school-swimming-coach-selected https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26646,boil-water-notice-rescinded-for-west-budaBUDA — As of 1:05 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 5, the boil water notice for western Buda neighborhoods has been rescinded.Following two-and-a-half days of a boil water notice for the neighborhoods of Sum...]]> Wed, 05 Aug 2026 13:31:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26646,boil-water-notice-rescinded-for-west-buda https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26640,twenty-four-women-named-finalists-for-inaugural-women-of-worth-celebrationDRIPPING SPRINGS — From more than 85 nominations celebrating women throughout the Dripping Springs community, an independent panel of judges has selected 24 finalists for the inaugural Women of Worth...]]> Wed, 05 Aug 2026 13:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26640,twenty-four-women-named-finalists-for-inaugural-women-of-worth-celebration https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26624,buda-san-marcos-mosquito-traps-test-positive-for-west-nile-virusSAN MARCOS — Hays County Development Services (HCDS) Mosquito Surveillance Program has received confirmation from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) that mosquito trap samples collec...]]> Tue, 04 Aug 2026 11:41:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26624,buda-san-marcos-mosquito-traps-test-positive-for-west-nile-virus https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26621,hays-county-invites-public-to-provide-survey-feedback-on-strategic-planHAYS COUNTY — Hays County is inviting community members to provide feedback on its draft Strategic Plan, a roadmap for county priorities, investments and decision-making over the next five years.Publi...]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2026 17:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26621,hays-county-invites-public-to-provide-survey-feedback-on-strategic-plan https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26620,reve-plastic-surgery-opens-in-dripping-springsDRIPPING SPRINGS  — Rêve Plastic Surgery celebrated its official ribbon cutting in Dripping Springs Thursday, July 23, marking the opening of a new boutique plastic surgery practice dedicated to...]]> Wed, 29 Jul 2026 16:50:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26620,reve-plastic-surgery-opens-in-dripping-springs https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26605,san-marcos-man-in-multi-county-fraud-crime-spree-sentenced-to-80-years-for-fraud-theftBUDA — After committing several felonies across Central Texas and reaching victims across the nation, 54-year-old Jimmie Wayne Goodson of San Marcos has been sentenced to a total of 80 years in p...]]> Fri, 24 Jul 2026 14:48:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26605,san-marcos-man-in-multi-county-fraud-crime-spree-sentenced-to-80-years-for-fraud-theft https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26596,kyle-police-department-partners-with-texas-department-of-transportation-to-promote-safe-drivingKYLE — The Kyle Police Department is joining the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and other law enforcement agencies across Texas for Operation Slowdown, which is a statewide traffic enforce...]]> Wed, 22 Jul 2026 16:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26596,kyle-police-department-partners-with-texas-department-of-transportation-to-promote-safe-driving https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26603,hays-county-welcomes-new-information-technology-directorSAN MARCOS — Hays County announced the hiring of Chris Ulibarri as its new Information Technology (IT) director.Ulibarri brings nearly 22 years of public-sector IT leadership and an extensive backgrou...]]> Wed, 22 Jul 2026 15:50:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26603,hays-county-welcomes-new-information-technology-director https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26600,public-invited-to-rainwater-harvesting-turf-management-training-at-san-marcos-public-librarySAN MARCOS — Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service‘s Healthy Lawns and Healthy Waters Program, in collaboration with the Plum Creek Watershed Partnership, will host a residential rainwater harvesti...]]> Wed, 22 Jul 2026 15:40:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26600,public-invited-to-rainwater-harvesting-turf-management-training-at-san-marcos-public-library https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26604,inmate-escapes-hays-county-jailUPDATE: The Hays County Sheriff's Office stated July 22 that Gutierrez was now in custody. SAN MARCOS — On July 19, 2026, inmate Xavier Isiah Gutierrez escaped from the custody of the Hays C...]]> Wed, 22 Jul 2026 11:24:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26604,inmate-escapes-hays-county-jail https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26586,two-arrested-in-connection-with-armed-robbery-in-kyleKYLE, TEXAS — Two suspects were arrested Wednesday, July 15, and Thursday, July 16, in connection with an armed robbery that took place in Kyle over the weekend.At approximately 12:30 p.m. S...]]> Thu, 16 Jul 2026 16:13:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26586,two-arrested-in-connection-with-armed-robbery-in-kyle https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26585,city-of-dripping-springs-encourages-rainwater-harvesting-for-landscape-irrigationDRIPPING SPRINGS — The Dripping Springs City Council approved an amendment to the city's plumbing code Tuesday, July 7, that makes it easier for qualifying standalone rainwater harvesting systems used...]]> Wed, 15 Jul 2026 17:20:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26585,city-of-dripping-springs-encourages-rainwater-harvesting-for-landscape-irrigation https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26584,dripping-springs-isd-names-deputy-superintendent-interim-chief-academic-officerDRIPPING SPRINGS — Dripping Springs ISD announced the district’s new deputy superintendent and interim chief academic officer.Dr. Karen KiddAn educator with more than two decades of experience, Dr. Ka...]]> Wed, 15 Jul 2026 17:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26584,dripping-springs-isd-names-deputy-superintendent-interim-chief-academic-officer https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26583,dripping-springs-isd-s-dr-holly-morris-kuentz-named-region-13-superintendent-of-the-yearDRIPPING SPRINGS — Education Service Center (ESC) Region 13 announced Dripping Springs ISD Superintendent Dr. Holly Morris-Kuentz as the 2026 Regional Superintendent of the Year.She will now represent...]]> Wed, 15 Jul 2026 17:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26583,dripping-springs-isd-s-dr-holly-morris-kuentz-named-region-13-superintendent-of-the-year https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26582,dripping-springs-book-donation-bin-relocatedDRIPPING SPRINGS — The Friends of the Dripping Springs Community Library (FODSCL) announced the relocation of its book donation bin with a ribbon cutting ceremony, in conjunction with the Dripping Spr...]]> Wed, 15 Jul 2026 16:50:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26582,dripping-springs-book-donation-bin-relocated https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26577,hill-country-rescue-recovery-introduces-microchip-scanning-station-networkHAYS COUNTY — Hill Country Rescue & Recovery has established Texas’ largest public community microchip scanning station network within a single county, completing the first phase of an innovative...]]> Wed, 15 Jul 2026 16:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26577,hill-country-rescue-recovery-introduces-microchip-scanning-station-network https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26575,hays-county-health-department-to-host-fourth-annual-back-to-school-health-fairSAN MARCOS — The Hays County Health Department (HCHD) will host its fourth Annual Back‑to‑School Health Fair — ¡Salud sin límites para este school year — from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 1, at Owe...]]> Wed, 15 Jul 2026 15:50:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26575,hays-county-health-department-to-host-fourth-annual-back-to-school-health-fair https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26576,bright-chiropractic-and-pain-center-opens-its-doors-in-kyleThe Kyle Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting in celebration of the opening of Bright Chiropractic and Pain Center Thursday, July 9. Located at 115 Kohlers Crossing, Suite 430, in Kyle, Br...]]> Wed, 15 Jul 2026 15:40:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26576,bright-chiropractic-and-pain-center-opens-its-doors-in-kyle https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26574,mosquito-trap-tests-positive-for-west-nile-virus-in-san-marcosSAN MARCOS — As part of routine surveillance for diseases transmitted by mosquitoes, the Hays County Development Services (HCDS) Mosquito Surveillance Program has received confirmation from the Texas...]]> Wed, 15 Jul 2026 12:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26574,mosquito-trap-tests-positive-for-west-nile-virus-in-san-marcos https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26569,san-marcos-fire-marshal-s-office-creates-tip-line-seek-leads-amid-ongoing-iconic-village-fire-investigation SAN MARCOS — As the eighth anniversary of the Iconic Village fire approaches, the San Marcos Fire Marshal's Office is renewing its appeal to the public for information that could help investigat...]]> Mon, 13 Jul 2026 10:46:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26569,san-marcos-fire-marshal-s-office-creates-tip-line-seek-leads-amid-ongoing-iconic-village-fire-investigation https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26568,oakwood-public-market-announces-closureDRIPPING SPRINGS — Oakwood Public Market closed its doors July 3 after operating for seven months.The market, which was established as a welcoming space for neighbors and visitors alike, where guests...]]> Wed, 08 Jul 2026 16:40:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26568,oakwood-public-market-announces-closure https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26564,sherry-anell-snowden-1950-2026January 15, 1950 – June 23, 2026Sherry Anell Snowden, a woman whose life was a brilliant canvas of color, energy, and generosity, passed away on June 23, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada, at the age of 76.S...]]> Wed, 08 Jul 2026 12:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26564,sherry-anell-snowden-1950-2026 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26563,luisa-c-garza-1941-2026Luisa C. Garza, aged 84, passed away leaving a legacy of faith, laughter, and devotion to her family. Born on July 2, 1941, in Robstown, Texas, to Jose and Isabel Cisneros, Luisa lived a life filled w...]]> Wed, 08 Jul 2026 12:00:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26563,luisa-c-garza-1941-2026 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26553,city-of-buda-secures-nearly-10-5m-in-federal-funds-for-east-main-street-expansionBUDA — The Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO) awarded the city of Buda $10.48 million in federal transportation funding for the future reconstruction of East Main Street betw...]]> Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:42:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26553,city-of-buda-secures-nearly-10-5m-in-federal-funds-for-east-main-street-expansion https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26547,hays-caldwell-amateur-radio-club-hosts-annual-field-dayThe Hays-Caldwell Amateur Radio Club hosted its annual Summer Field Day event Saturday, June 27, at city hall in Mountain City. The event is honored nationwide and orchestrated by the Amateur Radio Re...]]> Wed, 01 Jul 2026 16:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26547,hays-caldwell-amateur-radio-club-hosts-annual-field-day https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26552,joyce-bauerle-felps-1936-2026Joyce Bauerle Felps passed away peacefully on June 27, 2026, at the age of 90.Born in Austin, TX on June 16, 1936, Joyce lived a life defined by unwavering faith, selfless service, and deep love for h...]]> Wed, 01 Jul 2026 15:12:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26552,joyce-bauerle-felps-1936-2026 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26544,letter-to-the-editorThe Hays Commons Development Agreement article contained many inaccuracies.90% of this property is over the Edwards Aquifer Recharge Zone. All of the surrounding neighborhoods are on individual or com...]]> Wed, 01 Jul 2026 12:10:00 -0500 https://www.haysfreepress.com/article/26544,letter-to-the-editor 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