With comparison to iconic artists of the Woodstokian era of folk, including Fleetwood Mac, Crosby Stills Nash & Young, Loreena Mckennit and The Seekers, band combines delicate keys, soaring cello, rolling Banjo, sparkling mandolin, intricate guitar and haunting cello, to create a sound that resonates from bluegrass-inflected folk to ethereal soundscapes

With humble beginnings in regional New South Wales, Australia, the band has rapidly built international momentum. In recent years, they’ve showcased at some of the world’s leading music festivals in the world, including SXSW, Folk Alliance International, NAMM, Canadian Music Week, and Global Music Match.

Hawk’s Shadow Estate Winery is located at: Tickets are available at: https://theheartcollectors.com/events/hawks-shadow-winery-dripping-springs-tx/

The Hays County Commissioners Court unanimously passed a proclamation designating May 13 as Peace Officers Memorial Day in recognizing officers in Hays County who have lost their lives or become disabled in the performance of duty. The proclamation also recognized the week in which this date falls as Police Week.

Peace Officers Memorial Day is sponsored at the nationwide level by the National Fraternal Order of Police and is implemented by the FOP Memorial Committee. The holiday was created on October 1, 1961, when Congress authorized President John F. Kennedy to designate a day to honor peace officers.

”It is important that all citizens know and understand the problems, duties and responsibilities of their law enforcement agencies, and that members of these agencies recognize their duty to serve the people by safeguarding life and property, protecting them against violence or disorder, and shielding the innocent against deception and the weak against oppression or intimidation,” the Hays County proclamation states.

Seven officers in Hays County have been killed in the line of duty, according to the proclamation, which recognized those officers as well as others who have who have become disabled while on duty:

“We will never forget the sacrifices of:

- Deputy Sheriff Henry C. Banks (Hays County Sheriff's Office)

- Night Watchman Henry H. Joslin (Kyle Police Department)

- Deputy Sheriff John S. Davis, Jr. (Hays County Sheriff's Office)

- Trooper Randall W. Vetter (Texas Department of Public Safety)

- Officer Kenneth M. Copeland (San Marcos Police Department)

- Officer Justin Putnam (San Marcos Police Department)

- Deputy Constable Manuel Phillipe De La Rosa (Hays County Constable’s Office, Precinct 2)

- Deputy Sheriff Dustin Speckels (Hays County Sheriff's Office)

- Correctional Officer James Henry (Hays County Sheriff's Office)”

Shane Smith, Captain of Support Services Law Enforcement Bureau for the Hays County Sheriff’s Office, appeared at the May 12 meeting to speak on the proclamation.

“This profession is not easy,” Smith said. “The men and women who wear the badge carry burdens most people never see, long hours, missed holidays, difficult calls, the weight of making critical decisions at a moment's notice. Yet every day, they continue to show up and serve. It is both a responsibility and privilege to protect the community we call home. Our deputies and officers do this work because they care deeply about the people in this county and the safety of our families.

“And while we recognize those who serve, we must also recognize the spouses and families who stand beside them. They carry the stress, the sacrifice and the uncertainty that comes with the profession, often without recognition, they support,” Smith said.

In their discussion of the proclamation, the Commissioners Court members emphasized the essential role of law enforcement in safeguarding rights and freedoms, as well as the importance of community support and recognition.

Judge Ruben Becerra praised the role of law officers as not only community members, but also citizen leaders.

“I thank you all for being not only the front line of our community defense and protection through the lens of public safety, but being embedded in our community in the way that you are, because that shows a capacity of accountability, which I think is the pinnacle of our public safety.”

Pct. 4 Commissioner Walt Smith discussed the role of the Commissioners Court in sending law officers to the national observance of Police Week in Washington D.C. to support the Hays County families of deceased officers. The Court had used ARPA funds in previous years, but last year added continuous funding into the base budget to support those families,” Smith said.

“We’ve sent along a group of constables to act as escorts for families who have lost their loved ones,” Smith said.

Pct. 1 Commissioner Debbie Ingalsby talked about the ongoing importance of peace officers to the county. ”I want to thank you and honor the courage, sacrifice and commitment of the men and women who serve our communities every day,” she said.

Later in the court session, Leticia Solis and Martin A. Espinoza were sworn in by Commissioner Ingalsby as regular full-time Deputies in the Hays County Constable's Precinct 1 Office.

The Hays County Commissioners Court unanimously passed a proclamation designating May 13 as Peace Officers Memorial Day in recognizing officers in Hays County who have lost their lives or become disabled in the performance of duty. The proclamation also recognized the week in which this date falls as Police Week.

Peace Officers Memorial Day is sponsored at the nationwide level by the National Fraternal Order of Police and is implemented by the FOP Memorial Committee. The holiday was created on October 1, 1961, when Congress authorized President John F. Kennedy to designate a day to honor peace officers.

”It is important that all citizens know and understand the problems, duties and responsibilities of their law enforcement agencies, and that members of these agencies recognize their duty to serve the people by safeguarding life and property, protecting them against violence or disorder, and shielding the innocent against deception and the weak against oppression or intimidation,” the Hays County proclamation states.

Seven officers in Hays County have been killed in the line of duty, according to the proclamation, which recognized those officers as well as others who have who have become disabled while on duty:

“We will never forget the sacrifices of:

- Deputy Sheriff Henry C. Banks (Hays County Sheriff's Office)

- Night Watchman Henry H. Joslin (Kyle Police Department)

- Deputy Sheriff John S. Davis, Jr. (Hays County Sheriff's Office)

- Trooper Randall W. Vetter (Texas Department of Public Safety)

- Officer Kenneth M. Copeland (San Marcos Police Department)

- Officer Justin Putnam (San Marcos Police Department)

- Deputy Constable Manuel Phillipe De La Rosa (Hays County Constable’s Office, Precinct 2)

- Deputy Sheriff Dustin Speckels (Hays County Sheriff's Office)

- Correctional Officer James Henry (Hays County Sheriff's Office)”

Shane Smith, Captain of Support Services Law Enforcement Bureau for the Hays County Sheriff’s Office, appeared at the May 12 meeting to speak on the proclamation.

“This profession is not easy,” Smith said. “The men and women who wear the badge carry burdens most people never see, long hours, missed holidays, difficult calls, the weight of making critical decisions at a moment's notice. Yet every day, they continue to show up and serve. It is both a responsibility and privilege to protect the community we call home. Our deputies and officers do this work because they care deeply about the people in this county and the safety of our families.

“And while we recognize those who serve, we must also recognize the spouses and families who stand beside them. They carry the stress, the sacrifice and the uncertainty that comes with the profession, often without recognition, they support,” Smith said.

In their discussion of the proclamation, the Commissioners Court members emphasized the essential role of law enforcement in safeguarding rights and freedoms, as well as the importance of community support and recognition.

Judge Ruben Becerra praised the role of law officers as not only community members, but also citizen leaders.

“I thank you all for being not only the front line of our community defense and protection through the lens of public safety, but being embedded in our community in the way that you are, because that shows a capacity of accountability, which I think is the pinnacle of our public safety.”

Pct. 4 Commissioner Walt Smith discussed the role of the Commissioners Court in sending law officers to the national observance of Police Week in Washington D.C. to support the Hays County families of deceased officers. The Court had used ARPA funds in previous years, but last year added continuous funding into the base budget to support those families,” Smith said.

“We’ve sent along a group of constables to act as escorts for families who have lost their loved ones,” Smith said.

Pct. 1 Commissioner Debbie Ingalsby talked about the ongoing importance of peace officers to the county. ”I want to thank you and honor the courage, sacrifice and commitment of the men and women who serve our communities every day,” she said.

Later in the court session, Leticia Solis and Martin A. Espinoza were sworn in by Commissioner Ingalsby as regular full-time Deputies in the Hays County Constable's Precinct 1 Office.

According to the city, The Zone opened in 1996 and has grown into one of Texas’ most respected recording studios, hosting numerous prominent Texas and Americana artists through the years.

Artists who have recorded at the studio include Joe Ely, Robert Earl Keen, Ray Wylie Hubbard, Jerry Jeff Walker, Parker McCollum, Jack Ingram, Dave Alvin and Jimmy Dale Gilmore.

The city also recognized Mike Morgan, Pat Manske and others who have contributed to the studio’s success and impact on the local music scene over the past three decades.

In its announcement, the city described The Zone as an important part of Dripping Springs’ cultural identity and praised the studio’s legacy of creativity, collaboration and music production in the Texas Hill Country.

Following weeks of community discussion and feedback, the Dripping Springs ISD Board of Trustees voted 6-1 on Monday night to name the district’s new campus Driftwood Springs High School. The school is scheduled to open for the 2028-29 school year and will become the district’s 10th campus.

The decision came after months of work by a naming committee made up of students, parents, staff and community members. The committee reviewed survey results, discussed branding concepts and ultimately presented five official recommendations to the board for consideration.

The top two recommendations presented to trustees were Driftwood High School and Driftwood Springs High School. The committee also recommended the Wolves mascot with navy blue, gold and white colors for both concepts, though trustees only voted Monday on the school’s name. Mascots and colors remain under consideration and have not yet been finalized.

Other recommendations presented by the committee included Bear Creek High School, Sycamore Springs High School and Cypress Springs High School.

During Monday’s meeting, trustees repeatedly emphasized the amount of public feedback they received and the difficulty of balancing community identity, district traditions and future branding considerations.

Several trustees spoke in favor of retaining the “Springs” naming tradition used throughout the district while also acknowledging strong public support for the Driftwood name.

Trustee Mary Jane Hetrick said she believed the district could preserve both ideas.

“I feel like we can do both,” Hetrick said. “We can keep the Springs naming tradition.”

Trustee Rob McClelland said he believed the final name balanced district tradition with the opportunity for the new campus to establish its own identity.

“I believe Driftwood Springs High School strikes the right balance,” McClelland said. “It honors the history and heritage of a broader community that helped build this district over 150 years, while also giving students at this new campus the opportunity to create traditions and a legacy uniquely their own.”

The district’s naming committee had previously identified Driftwood and Driftwood Springs as the consistent front-runners throughout committee discussions and survey results. District administrators told trustees the committee also discussed a wide range of mascot and color concepts during the process.

The new high school is being constructed off Darden Hill Road east of Cypress Springs Elementary. The approximately 506,000-square-foot campus is designed to serve 2,500 students in grades 9-12 and carries an estimated project cost of $298.8 million.

Planned facilities include baseball and softball fields, tennis courts, practice fields, a band practice lot, an agriculture barn and a sub-varsity competition stadium. The district has said the campus will not include a varsity football stadium, with varsity football games and graduation ceremonies continuing to be held at Tiger Stadium.

The campus was approved by voters as part of the district’s May 2023 bond package.

This article has been edited to a remove a quote that was misattributed. We apologize for the error. 

The study was approved by the Hays County Commissioners Court in January. It is the county’s first major water study since 2011 and is being conducted by HDR Engineering.

County officials say the study is meant to provide a clearer picture of how water moves through the county, where infrastructure gaps exist and what challenges may lie ahead.

According to the county, the study will examine water supply planning, wastewater management, flooding concerns and regulations that impact water use. The project also includes flood assessments in all four county precincts and a review of possible centralized sewer options in the Hillside Terrace neighborhood.

Last week, Hays County Precinct 4 Commissioner Walt Smith hosted one of several public stakeholder meetings connected to the study. Smith said the meetings are designed to gather local information from residents, water providers and environmental groups while HDR remains in the data collection phase.

Smith said the county’s previous water study is now outdated because of major growth and development over the past decade.

Precinct 3 Commissioner Morgan Hammer said West Hays County has faced water challenges for years.

“There have always been challenges in West Hays County,” Hammer said. “There are so many factors at play, and every part of the county is different, so this study will help us clearly see what’s really going on.”

Smith said county leaders expanded the study beyond water supply concerns to also include flooding and wastewater issues.

“We are really trying to take a look at where the water is coming from, where it’s being used, what the sources of that water are, what impact it has, especially in flood situations,” Smith said. “And then what happens to it once it’s been used within the system?”

Smith said county officials also hope the study will provide data that can support future discussions with state lawmakers about local planning and development authority.

A wide range of groups were invited to participate in the meetings, including groundwater districts, watershed associations, environmental organizations, regional planning groups and licensed water system operators.

He said many residents may not realize how many licensed public water systems exist in the county.

“For example, in my precinct, there’s roughly 140 licensed public water systems,” Smith said.

Smith said even some small businesses can qualify as public water systems under state regulations. He pointed to a gas station at the corner of Nutty Brown Road and FM 1826 as an example. Because the business serves food while operating on a well, it must be licensed and regularly test its water supply.

Smith said public meetings are important because residents often know about local flooding or infrastructure problems that may not appear in maps or official data.

“There are things, especially when we look at the flood portion of the study, that only local residents with knowledge of the area would know,” Smith said.

Smith said residents have already shared concerns about low-water crossings, flood-prone areas and water systems dealing with well failures or enhanced monitoring by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

County officials said the study is expected to take about 11 months to complete and will cost no more than $542,360.

Smith said the county is currently focused on gathering information and conducting stakeholder interviews.

“We’re collecting the paint right now,” Smith said. “We’re trying to get all the input that we can, and then once we get that and the data is analyzed, that’s where you paint the picture of what’s actually on the ground here in Hays County.”

Additional public meetings are expected as the study moves forward. He also said county leaders want the final report to remain an active planning tool rather than a one-time study.

“This is not a study that should be put on a shelf,” Smith said. “The county itself and the commissioners court must use this data in the most effective way possible.”

The sounds of blacksmithing, live music and children digging through mock archaeological sites filled the grounds of the Pound House Farmstead this weekend. It was a lively return for a historic event that was held for the first time in years this weekend.

Pioneer Day at the historic farmstead in Founders Memorial Park marked the revival of a longtime community tradition that had not occurred since the COVID-19 pandemic following major restoration work at the property. Organizers said the event served both as a fundraiser for the museum and a way to reconnect the growing community with its history.

“We celebrated Pioneer Day 2026. We haven’t had one since I think 2018,” Jeanne Polk, president of the Friends of the Pound House Foundation, said. “It’s nice to slow down and see that this is a part of the actual history of Dripping Springs.”

Throughout the day, visitors stepped into what organizers described as a living snapshot of 19th century Texas Hill Country life.

The event featured historic demonstrations, candle dipping, quilt making, loom weaving, blacksmithing and children’s activities. Guests also toured the historic house, took hayrides and visited vendors selling food, sweets and vintage items. A Buffalo Soldier reenactor showcased historical artifacts and interacted with children throughout the day. 

The Pound House Farmstead traces its origins to 1854, when Dr. Joseph Pound and his wife Sarah settled in what would become Dripping Springs. The original log room of the house still stands today.

According to the museum’s historical records, Joseph Pound first came to Texas in 1847 during the Mexican-American War before returning with Sarah in the early 1850s. The Pound family became one of the founding families of Dripping Springs and helped establish many of the area’s earliest community institutions. Polk said the property once stretched across roughly 700 acres and served as far more than just a family home.

“The house served as a community meeting place, it was a church, it was a hospital,” Polk said. “It served as a school.”

The farmstead is believed to be the last remaining historic farmstead in Dripping Springs. Today, about five acres remain preserved as a museum property.

The house never underwent major modernization during the decades it remained occupied by descendants of the Pound family. According to the museum, indoor plumbing was never added, and electricity was not installed until 1947.

The site was added to the National Register of Historic Places and designated a Texas State Historical Landmark in 1965. It officially opened as a museum in 2003. Polk said Pioneer Day had historically been one of the community’s signature heritage events before a series of setbacks interrupted the tradition. A 2019 event was canceled because of rain, followed shortly afterward by the pandemic and a lengthy roof replacement project at the house.

“We’ve been trying to get back in the community’s presence, trying to get folks to remember,” Polk said.

She said organizers hope the return of Pioneer Day will help reconnect residents, especially newcomers, with the area’s roots as Dripping Springs continues to grow rapidly.

“People have to get connected with history again, with the history of the community, especially as large and fast growing as Dripping Springs is,” Polk said.

The Pound House Farmstead is open Saturdays and Mondays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Organizers said the museum relies heavily on admissions, donations and grants to continue operations and preservation efforts. Visit phfmuseum.org to get involved with the history of Dripping Springs.

Volunteers, community members and supporters gathered Sunday as Dripping Springs Hometown Missions dedicated and blessed a newly constructed home for longtime area resident Melody Snell as part of the nonprofit’s “Home in a Month” project.

The ceremony took place at Snell’s property on Signal Hill Road near Dripping Springs, marking the completion of a monthlong volunteer effort to replace her aging mobile home with a new “stick-built” tiny home.

According to Hometown Missions, Snell had lived in her previous mobile home for nearly 40 years. Built in the 1970s, the structure had become unsafe and no longer provided reliable protection from storms and deteriorating conditions.

Snell, a longtime member of Gateway Church Dripping Springs, spoke about the emotional transition as she prepared to leave the home where she had spent much of her life.

“Tonight is the last night I will spend in this shelter God has provided me for the last 39.5 years,” Snell said in a statement shared before the dedication ceremony. “Strong storms have made my mobile home shake and groan like a sinking ship. Yet, the hand of God always kept it upright for me.”

She also reflected on the support she received from the community and her faith throughout the process.

“I am seeing the prayers of my father being answered,” she said. “Our Father heard his many prayers and has not forgotten them. He has not forgotten me.”

Organizers said volunteers spent the past month building the home through donated labor, materials and community support. The project was designed to provide Snell with a safer and more stable living environment while allowing her to remain in the community she has called home for decades.

Snell’s life story includes years spent in Peru as the daughter of missionaries who worked translating the Bible into native languages, according to Hometown Missions. The organization also noted that she has faced serious health challenges, including cancer, while remaining active in her church community.

During the dedication ceremony, volunteers, supporters and friends gathered to celebrate the completion of the project and recognize the community effort behind the build.

Dave Edwards, president of the Hometown Missions Board of Directors, said the organization’s work reflects a broader mission of community service and faith.

“At Hometown Missions, we believe that when churches, businesses and individuals come together in service, we are living out God's call to love our neighbors,” Edwards said. “To every volunteer who has ever swung a hammer, painted a house, served meals or simply shown up, you are not just building homes — you are building a community that reflects God's love.”

Hometown Missions is a faith-based nonprofit organization focused on providing safe and stable housing for local residents through volunteer-driven home construction and renovation projects.

A total of 11 people around the world have had either confirmed or suspected cases of hantavirus tied to the cruise outbreak, World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Ph.D., said at a recent news conference.  

According to current reports, 18 Americans who were aboard the cruise ship linked to the deadly hantavirus outbreak are now being monitored at specialized healthcare facilities in the United States. One passenger is receiving care in a biocontainment unit at the University of Nebraska, while 15 additional individuals are under quarantine at the university’s National Quarantine Center. Two other passengers have been transferred to a biocontainment unit at Emory University in Atlanta. One of those individuals developed symptoms; however, testing was negative for the Andes variant of hantavirus.

Rodney Rohde, Chair of the Medical Laboratory Science Program in the College of Health Professions at Texas State, answered the following questions on hantavirus. 

As a microbiologist and virologist who studies infectious diseases and public health preparedness, I often get questions when rare viruses suddenly make headlines. Here are five important questions—and answers—about the current hantavirus outbreak. 

1. What exactly is hantavirus?

Hantaviruses are a family of viruses primarily carried by rodents. Humans usually become infected after breathing in tiny particles contaminated with rodent urine, droppings or saliva. In the Americas, hantaviruses can cause a severe disease called hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, or HPS, which affects the lungs and can become life-threatening.  

The strain associated with the cruise ship outbreak appears to be the Andes virus, a hantavirus found mainly in parts of South America, especially Argentina and Chile. Unlike most hantaviruses, Andes virus is unusual because it can sometimes spread from person to person through close, prolonged contact.  

That distinction is important because it changes how public health officials respond. Instead of focusing only on environmental exposure, authorities also must consider contact tracing and monitoring of potentially exposed travelers. 

2. Why is a cruise ship outbreak so concerning?

Cruise ships create ideal conditions for infectious disease spread. People live in close quarters, share dining and recreation spaces, and often spend days or weeks together with limited medical resources onboard.

Most cruise-related outbreaks involve gastrointestinal viruses like norovirus. A hantavirus outbreak is highly unusual.  

In this case, investigators are trying to determine whether the outbreak began with exposure to infected rodents before boarding, contamination somewhere on the ship, or limited person-to-person transmission involving Andes virus. Reports suggest the voyage began in Ushuaia, Argentina—an area where Andes virus is known to circulate. Argentine investigators suspect a Dutch couple may have first contracted the virus while on a bird-watching trip before they boarded the cruise ship in Argentina on April 1. Bird watchers routinely use sites like landfills because a diverse number of birds will feed in these sites. Importantly, landfills offer prime real estate for rodents which are known to shed hantavirus.

Patient Zero (the likely index case) in the cruise ship hantavirus outbreak has been identified as ornithologist Leo Schilperoord, whose passion for birds may have cost him his life.

The 70-year-old man and his wife, Mirjam Schilperoord, 69, were on a five-month trip to South America. On Nov. 27, they landed in Argentina. They traveled through Chile, Uruguay and then back to Argentina in late March, where they went on a fateful birdwatching adventure.

Another challenge is the international nature of cruise travel. Passengers and crew often come from multiple countries and may disperse quickly after disembarking, complicating contact tracing and quarantine efforts. 

3. What symptoms should people watch for?

Early hantavirus symptoms can resemble influenza or COVID-19. People may develop:

Fever  

Muscle aches  

Fatigue  

Headache  

Chills  

Nausea or abdominal symptoms  

As the illness progresses, some patients develop coughing and severe shortness of breath as fluid accumulates in the lungs. This stage can rapidly become critical and is often referred to as acute respiratory distress (also known as hantavirus pulmonary syndrome).

One reason Hantavirus is dangerous is that symptoms may worsen suddenly after several days of what appears to be a routine viral illness. Signs and symptoms of HPS due to Andes virus appear 4-42 days after exposure.

Anyone who recently traveled on the affected ship—or had close contact with a confirmed case—should seek medical care immediately if respiratory symptoms develop. 

4. Is the public at risk of a larger outbreak?

Right now, public health agencies say the broader public risk remains low.  

Although Andes virus can spread between people, transmission appears to require close and sustained contact rather than casual exposure. This is not considered an easy airborne virus in the same way measles or COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) can spread.

Health officials are taking the outbreak seriously because Hantavirus infections can be severe and because cruise passengers travel internationally. The CDC has already outlined monitoring plans for Americans returning from the voyage, including symptom monitoring and quarantine recommendations in some situations.  

The CDC is issuing this Health Alert Network (HAN) Health Advisory to inform clinicians and health departments about a new cluster of hantavirus disease cases caused by infection with Andes virus.

The situation is also a reminder that emerging infectious diseases continue to pose global risks in a highly connected world. 

5. Are there treatments or vaccines for hantavirus?

Unfortunately, there is currently no approved specific antiviral treatment or widely available vaccine for hantavirus infections in the United States. Medical care mainly focuses on supportive treatment, especially oxygen therapy and intensive care for patients with severe lung involvement.  

Researchers have explored experimental antibody therapies and vaccines, but progress has been limited by funding challenges and the relatively small number of cases seen globally each year.  

The cruise ship outbreak may become a wake-up call for renewed investment in emerging infectious disease preparedness. Scientists have long warned that environmental disruption, climate shifts and increased human interaction with wildlife can increase opportunities for zoonotic diseases—infections that jump from animals to humans.

For now, prevention remains the best defense: avoiding rodent exposure, improving sanitation, and maintaining strong disease surveillance systems capable of detecting unusual outbreaks quickly.

The current outbreak also highlights an important public health lesson from the past several decades: infectious diseases do not respect borders, and rapid international coordination remains essential when rare pathogens emerge unexpectedly.  

Closing Thoughts

As this outbreak continues to unfold, it serves as another sobering reminder that zoonotic diseases remain one of the most unpredictable threats to global health security. Hantaviruses may be rare, but rare does not mean insignificant—especially in an era of rapid international travel, ecological disruption, and increasing human interaction with wildlife reservoirs.

The scientific and public health communities must continue investing in surveillance, laboratory diagnostics, emerging pathogen research, and public communication grounded in evidence rather than fear. Preparedness is not simply about responding to the next outbreak; it is about recognizing that our interconnected world requires constant vigilance, collaboration and scientific literacy to protect lives before localized events become global crises. 

Rodney E. Rohde, Ph.D., is a Global Fellow, Regents' Professor in the Texas State University System, University Distinguished Professor, and Chair of the Medical Laboratory Science Program in the College of Health Professions at Texas State University. Dr. Rohde holds certifications as a specialist in virology, specialist in microbiology and molecular biologist from the American Society for Clinical Pathology.

He served as a public health microbiologist and molecular epidemiologist for the Texas Department of State Health Services – Bureau of Laboratories and Zoonosis Control Division for a decade (1992-2002), including two stints as a CDC Visiting Scientist. Dr. Rohde joined Texas State University in 2002 and is an internationally recognized subject matter expert in microbiology and infectious diseases.

Rohde and Professor Ivan Castro (Texas State University, Biology Department) authored this article on hantavirus.   

Castro teaches classes on “Problems in Biological Sciences” (BIO5390) and “Ecology of Infectious Diseases in Wildlife” (BIO7414). He received his Masters and PhD degrees from Texas A&M University. 

On the GOP side, the statewide runoffs are:

U.S. Senate: John Cornyn and Ken Paxton

Texas attorney general: Mayes Middleton and Chip Roy

Texas Railroad Commission: Jim Wright and Bo French

Texas Court of Criminal Appeals Place 3: Alison Fox and Thomas Smith

The statewide Democratic runoffs are:

Lieutenant governor: Vikki Goodwin and Marcos Vélez

Attorney general: Nathan Johnson and Joe Jaworski

There are also runoff races for several House seats, the State Board of Education, and Texas Senate District 19, which runs along the U.S.-Mexico border. Voters who cast ballots in the March GOP primary can’t vote in the Democratic runoff races, and vice versa. Registered voters who did not participate in the March primary can vote in either party’s runoff election, but not both.

Texas oil industry at war with itself

The GOP runoff race for a seat on the Texas Railroad Commission is pitting oil industry leaders against each other. Many small-scale oil companies are supporting former Tarrant County Republican Party chair Bo French because of incumbent Jim Wright’s efforts to lead reforms at the commission, the Houston Chronicle reported.

“I can't support Jim Wright, because Jim Wright makes rules that are silly for lots and lots and lots of operators,” said Lance Thomas, manager of Albany-based Stasney Well Service. His company is suing the Railroad Commission over new rules about how oil operators manage onsite waste pits.

A political action committee associated with oil billionaire Tim Dunn, a conservative megadonor, has contributed at least $350,000 to French’s campaign. On the flip side, Chevron, Exxon Mobil, and other major oil companies have contributed to PACs backing Wright.

French has drawn controversy for public comments he has made about Muslims and DEI.

Paxton steps up investigations as runoff nears

Attorney General Ken Paxton has steadily increased his lawsuits, investigations, and public threats around many of the conservative causes that energize Republicans, The Dallas Morning News reported. More than 100 news releases announcing such actions have been issued since early January.

Critics say he is using the attorney general’s office for political gain rather than enforcement. Supporters say Paxton is pursuing the issues Texas conservatives elected him to champion.

“He's been suing the pants off people. I like that,” said Laura Oakley, president of the Grapevine Republican Club.

The topics since the March primary included immigration, Islam, China, visa fraud, election maps, birthright citizenship and foreign influence, according to The News report. A spokesman for Paxton’s campaign called the review of Paxton’s investigations “garbage” and not “worth printing.”

Lottery Commission, ex-director face criminal charges

Former Texas lottery director Gary Grief and the Texas Lottery Commission have been charged with misusing their positions in a 2023 Lotto Texas drawing worth $95 million, the Austin American-Statesman reported. The criminal charges assert the agency helped international gamblers engineer a guaranteed win.

Agency officials helped professional bettors purchase nearly every possible six-number combination — more than 25 million tickets — assuring they would win the $95 million jackpot, according to the charges. However, Grief’s attorney issued a statement saying, in part, “When all facts are revealed in court, the public will see that Gary’s leadership at the Lottery Commission generated millions of dollars for Texas schools and veterans and there was no crime.”

Grief and the commission are charged with abuse of official capacity, a broadly worded offense alleging “intent to harm or defraud another” by misusing “government property, services, personnel or any other thing of value belonging to the government,” the Statesman reported.

Texas’ migrant deportation law likely to be blocked

A new law allowing state officials to arrest and deport undocumented immigrants took effect last week, but it appears likely a federal judge will soon move to block it, according to the Houston Chronicle. U.S. District Judge David A. Ezra has previously called the law “patently unconstitutional,” but delayed making a ruling.

Senate Bill 4 has been stymied since its passage by legal challenges arguing that immigration enforcement is under the purview of the federal government, not state governments.

“Gov. Abbott is the sovereign governor of the state of Texas. He is not the president of the United States,” Ezra said. “DPS officers are not ICE agents.”

The GOP majority in the Texas Legislature passed the law during an immigration surge during the Biden administration. That surge has since receded, and few GOP lawmakers have been pushing for the law to be implemented, according to the Chronicle.

Grimes County residents question proposed chip facility

Elon Musk’s bid to build what he calls the world’s largest computer chip manufacturing facility in Grimes County, southeast of College Station, is drawing opposition from some residents, according to the San Antonio Express-News. Musk is seeking tax breaks to build the facility, dubbed Terafab.

Supporters say the initial $55 billion investment would later double in subsequent phases, which is too good to pass up. Opponents question the track record of Musk’s businesses, such as SpaceX, and whether the huge company needs tax breaks.

“I believe it would be immoral to give this company tax abatement when we have serious concerns about health issues and safety issues,” county resident Jacqueline Ross told Grimes County commissioners.

SpaceX was fined nearly $150,000 in 2024 for breaking clean water laws after a fuel spill at its South Texas launch site. It also was cited for illegally discharging wastewater into wetlands near its Boca Chica facilities.

The company is seeking a $1.75 trillion valuation when it goes public in a few months, prompting some residents to question why it needs a tax break.

Gary Borders is a veteran award-winning Texas journalist. He published a number of community newspapers in Texas during a 30-year span, including in Longview, Fort Stockton, Nacogdoches, Lufkin and Cedar Park. Email: gborders@texaspress.com.

According to Dripping Springs Independent School District, the students will pursue studies in theater, music, dance, visualization and related arts fields.

Honored students included Leela Bertram, who will study scenic design at the University of Cincinnati; Keller Breland, commercial music at Liberty University; Shelby Cluck, theater production and performance at Texas State University; and Haleigh Darlington, who will study political science while participating on the dance team at the University of Cincinnati.

Additional students recognized were Oliver Engels, theater at Texas Tech University; Adrian Fisher, technical theater at Texas State University; Aubrey Hall, musical theater at Webster University; Evan Murphy, music performance at University of Rochester; Annie Reale, piano performance at The University of Texas at Austin; Eva Somerville, visualization at Texas A&M University; Liliana Turba, technical theater at Texas Tech University; and Aiden Vanwalleghem, music at Texas State University.

The district congratulated the students and wished them success as they continu

Dripping Springs welcomed home a state champion from the State Track Meet last weekend. Izzy Crew, an outstanding athlete in the wheelchair division, competed in three events and returned with one gold and two silver medals. She qualified in the 400 and finished second with a time of 1.09.63. She duplicated the second in the 100 with a time of 18.54. Her gold medal came in the shot put. She tossed the iron ball 21'.75 feet to win the event and also to set the new school record. She will have two more years to add to her medal collection.

Homeruns proved to be the tool for run production in the first game. After four scoreless innings, a three-run HR, gave PSJA all the runs they would need. In the sixth they chose to pitch to Lorelei Gamble with a runner on, a choice they would not have made otherwise. She would make them pay with a HR but it would not be enough for a win. McKenna Riley and Kara Daniel had the other two hits. Sadie Bradford had 7IP, 5H, 3H, 3ER, 6W, 6K,1HR.

The second game was much the same. PSJA scored runs on two RBI doubles and a homerun. They had three runs after three innings before DS would score single runs in the fourth and fifth. Once again it would not be enough. For sure their strategy was to take the bat out of Gamble's hands by walking her three times. Tatum Green had two hits with Mc. Riley and Emma Phillips the other two. Green pitched the first three innings, giving up 4H, 3R, 3ER, 1W, 1K, 1HR. Bradford tossed the final three, 2H, 1R, 1ER, 2W, 5K.

Even though it was not where they wanted to finish, the Lady Tigers had another productive season. They were undefeated District Champs, carved out a 32-8-1 record and have a strong nucleus returning to do it all over again next year.

While the latest advisory was issued by Austin Public Health for Austin and Travis County, Hays County officials have also dealt with confirmed West Nile virus activity in recent mosquito seasons, including positive mosquito trap tests in areas near Dripping Springs and Wimberley last year. 

Mosquito season in Central Texas typically runs from May through November, especially during warmer and wetter months when mosquitoes breed more rapidly.

According to Austin Public Health, mosquitoes can carry diseases including West Nile virus, Zika, dengue fever, encephalitis and canine heartworm.

“While we’re all getting ready to enjoy the summer, let’s be sure to bring mosquito repellent and appropriate clothing anytime we plan on spending time outdoors,” Austin Public Health Environmental Health Services Division Chief Marcel Elizondo said in the advisory. “We've consistently seen West Nile virus for years, and this year shouldn’t be any different.”

In 2025, Austin-Travis County reported 41 mosquito pools that tested positive for West Nile virus, along with five preliminary human cases pending final confirmation by the Texas Department of State Health Services.

Hays County officials also reported multiple positive mosquito traps during the 2024 and 2025 mosquito seasons, including detections in unincorporated areas near Dripping Springs and Wimberley. 

Health officials recommend residents follow the “Four Ds” to reduce mosquito exposure:

• Dusk and dawn — Mosquitoes that spread West Nile virus are most active during early morning and evening hours.

• Dress — Wear long sleeves, pants and loose-fitting light-colored clothing outdoors.

• DEET — Use insect repellents containing DEET or other EPA-approved ingredients.

• Drain — Eliminate standing water around homes, including flowerpots, clogged gutters, birdbaths, old tires and outdoor containers where mosquitoes can breed.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, most people infected with West Nile virus experience no symptoms, though some may develop fever, headaches, body aches or rash. Severe illness is more likely among older adults and people with weakened immune systems. 

Hays County operates a mosquito surveillance program that monitors mosquito activity and tests traps for mosquito-borne illnesses throughout the county. 

More than two dozen Texas school districts must provide documentation to Paxton’s office “regarding the display or lack thereof of the Ten Commandments and their policies,” Paxton said in a statement Thursday. 

The districts must also show that their school boards voted on whether they would set aside time each day for students and staff to pray. A new state law required school board members to vote on prayer time in school by March 1. 

“I will always fight for students’ fundamental right to pray in our schools and work to ensure that Texas kids are able to learn from the Ten Commandments daily,” Paxton said in a statement. 

Paxton is investigating the following districts: Alamo Heights, North East, Austin, Cypress-Fairbanks, Lackland, Lake Travis, Fort Bend, Houston, Dripping Springs, Plano, Northside, Conroe, Galveston, Dallas, Fort Worth, Lubbock, Wichita Falls, McAllen, Amarillo, El Paso, Corpus Christi, United, Texarkana, Victoria, Waco, Abilene, San Angelo, Brownsville, and Beaumont. 

Here’s what we know: Texas can enforce a state law requiring public schools to display posters of the Ten Commandments in classrooms after an April 21 federal court ruling.

A 9-8 majority of the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that Texas' law requiring public schools to display posters of the Ten Commandments did not violate the Constitution, which prohibits governments from establishing an official state religion.

"It does not tell churches or synagogues or mosques what to believe or how to worship or whom to employ as priests, rabbis, or imams," the ruling stated. "It punishes no one who rejects the Ten Commandments, no matter the reason."

Sixteen families from across Texas sued over the law, alleging that it amounted to state leaders promoting their interpretation of Christianity over other faiths.  

All 17 active judges on the court listened to the case —Rabbi Nathan v. Alamo Heights Independent School District — alongside a similar challenge in Louisiana, the first state to pass a Ten Commandments requirement for its public schools. The court cleared the way in February for Louisiana to fully implement its law. 

After the decision, the civil rights organizations representing the families expressed disappointment. 

"The court’s ruling goes against fundamental First Amendment principles and binding U.S. Supreme Court authority," the groups said in a statement. "The First Amendment safeguards the separation of church and state, and the freedom of families to choose how, when and if to provide their children with religious instruction. This decision tramples those rights.”

The case is playing a central role in the national debate over whether the laws violate the First Amendment’s Establishment Clause, which prohibits governments from endorsing or promoting a particular religion. The civil rights organizations said they plan to ask the U.S. Supreme Court to reverse the decision.

Background: The Texas Legislature passed Senate Bill 10 in 2025, with Gov. Greg Abbott signing it into law that June. It requires public schools to display donated posters of the Ten Commandments, sized at least 16 by 20 inches, in a visible space on classroom walls.

The families — represented by a coalition of civil rights organizations, including the American Civil Liberties Union of Texas — sued 11 school districts to block what their lawyers called “catastrophically unconstitutional” legislation.

U.S. District Judge Fred Biery agreed, blocking the law from taking effect in the districts named in the lawsuit: Alamo Heights, North East, Lackland, Northside, Austin, Lake Travis, Dripping Springs, Houston, Fort Bend, Cypress-Fairbanks and Plano.

Biery concluded the law improperly favors Christianity over other faiths and said it would likely interfere with families’ “exercise of their sincere religious or nonreligious beliefs in substantial ways.”

Paxton asked the 5th Circuit Court to overturn Biery’s ruling and allow all 17 active judges on the court to hear the Texas and Louisiana cases together.

A federal judge blocked Louisiana’s Ten Commandments law from taking effect in 2024, a decision unanimously upheld last year by a panel of three judges on the 5th Circuit Court. Twelve of the appeals court’s judges were appointed by Republican presidents. The court is considered one of the most conservative in the nation.

The arguments for the case did not include two other prominent Texas lawsuits challenging the Ten Commandments law.

One lawsuit resulted in a federal judge blocking 14 more school districts from complying with the law. The other asks a federal judge to block all Texas schools from following the law and is pending.

Why the families sued: They argued that the law subjects children to a state-imposed Protestant version of the Ten Commandments that many religious and nonreligious Texans do not recognize.

The families believe the law seeks to pressure students into observing and adopting Texas officials’ preferred religious principles.

They say the law will inflict harm by alienating children of those who do not follow the state’s preferred religion and that parents’ authority to direct their children’s religious education is undermined.

“Posting the Ten Commandments in public schools is un-American and un-Baptist,” Griff Martin, a pastor, parent and plaintiff in the lawsuit, said in a statement last year. “S.B. 10 undermines the separation of church and state as a bedrock principle of my family’s Baptist heritage. Baptists have long held that the government has no role in religion — so that our faith may remain free and authentic.”

The families’ lawyers argue that because children are legally required to attend school, they have virtually no way of avoiding Texas’ required version of the Ten Commandments.

The U.S. Supreme Court found public school displays of the Ten Commandments unconstitutional in 1980. Civil rights attorneys argue that only the Supreme Court can overturn its previous rulings.

What the state argued: Paxton and attorneys from his office say the Ten Commandments played a significant role in the nation’s history and heritage. State leaders have said previous rulings from federal courts and the U.S. Supreme Court did not examine that historical significance.

State lawyers also note that the Supreme Court recently eliminated a test, established by a previous ruling, that determined when a government had unconstitutionally endorsed or established a religion.

“There is no legal reason to stop Texas from honoring a core ethical foundation of our law, especially not a bogus claim about the ‘separation of church and state,’ which is a phrase found nowhere in the Constitution,” Paxton said last year.

Lawyers with the attorney general’s office see the Ten Commandments requirement as requiring only a “passive display on the wall” that does not rise to the level of coercion because students are free to ignore the posters. The law might cross the line if it sought to incorporate the Ten Commandments into lessons or assignments, they argued.

The posters must go up in Texas classrooms only if donated by someone. The law does not specify what would happen if school leaders choose not to comply. The state views that as evidence no threat or harm is posed to families. However, Paxton threatened legal action if schools do not comply and sued three districts for alleged noncompliance.

What happened during oral arguments: Some judges questioned state officials from Texas and Louisiana about their decisions to use a Protestant version of the Ten Commandments and how that would affect families who do not follow those religious principles. 

Lawyers for the states argued that the laws do not ask children to subscribe to a particular belief and urged the judges to consider legislators’ intent to teach students about important documents in U.S. history.

The judges questioned how children would know the posters have anything to do with American history. They also asked for historical evidence showing the use of the Ten Commandments in public schools. 

Lawyers for the states pointed to early textbooks that referenced the Ten Commandments but acknowledged those materials were largely used in religious settings prior to the establishment of public schools in the 1800s. 

Public schools used the materials through the early 20th century. However, a prominent historian who testified in the case noted that the Ten Commandments were not significant aspects of the texts and that it is unclear how much teachers relied on those specific lessons. 

“A legislature in Louisiana, a legislature in Texas, is absolutely well within its right to say: We want to actually teach our students about founding documents,” said Ben Aguiñaga, the attorney representing Louisiana. 

Judges asked the lawyers representing the families why they consider the Ten Commandments posters problematic when students recite the Pledge of Allegiance and learn about the Declaration of Independence and Martin Luther King Jr.’s Letter from a Birmingham Jail — all of which refer to God. 

King’s letter and the Declaration of Independence may reference religion, the lawyers replied, but they’re about more than religion.

Some judges noted during arguments that the Supreme Court’s 1980 ruling heavily relied on a test that courts no longer use. The families’ lawyers countered that removing the test did not overturn Supreme Court precedent preventing the Ten Commandments from going up in public classrooms.

If students do not follow the religious principles in the state’s mandated version of the Ten Commandments, judges asked, can’t they ignore the posters? 

“They can't just look away, your honor,” said attorney Jon Youngwood, representing the families. “Not for 13 years. Not in every class. Not every minute of every day.”

What the court ruled: A court majority concluded that the U.S. Supreme Court's 1980 ruling in Stone v. Graham is no longer valid. That case found a Kentucky law requiring the posting of the Ten Commandments unconstitutional. 

The Supreme Court recently abandoned the test established in Stone that determined whether states had illegally endorsed or promoted a religion, the 5th U.S. Circuit judges noted. That means "there is nothing left of Stone," they noted in the ruling.

They concluded that Texas' Ten Commandments law does not establish an official state religion. Among reasons, they noted that it “levies no taxes to support any clergy. It does not co-opt churches to perform civic functions."

The judges ruled that the law is not coercive because it does not require students to learn the Ten Commandments or give teachers authority to undermine students' religious beliefs. 

"Yes, Plaintiffs have sincere religious disagreements with its content," the opinion reads. "But that does not transform the poster into a summons to prayer."

An opinion written by judges who opposed the decision argued in response that it is insignificant that Texas’ law does not require schools to teach the Ten Commandments. 

The law poses a threat to children’s religious beliefs and undermines what parents may want their kids to learn about religion, they wrote in dissenting statements.

The opposing judges agreed with the argument of families who sued that the Supreme Court has not overturned its Stone v. Graham ruling. Lower courts are bound by Stone even if the test established in it is no longer in use, they added. Taking into account the historical-based approach courts must now use, the dissenting judges said Texas’ law still violates the Constitution.

This article first appeared on The Texas Tribune.

Dripping Springs is finding themselves in familiar territory in softball playoff lore. They are presently in the regional finals opposite Pharr-San Juan-Alamo after defeating NB Canyon 7-4 in a one-game playoff. Usually playoffs are a best of three series. Both coaches have to agree. However, there are times when a coach feels their best odds is to put it all on the line for one game and hope for the best. Coach Wade Womack did not agree and the flip of the coin is the determiner. Dripping Springs lost the toss and had to settle for one at Hays and hope the team did not have an off night. They did not.

Now they will test Pharr-San Juan-Alamo for a repeat chance at a berth in the state semis. They have a gaudy 36-1 record. One learns to question the ability of those who made up the wins in that record. A peek at their games reveals not many games were of the close variety. One thing is sure. If Coach Womack has his way there will not be just one game. If they have to, the Lady Tigers have the where with all to handle the situation.

As expected, Canyon would be competitive. The Lady Tigers drew blood first by scoring two in the top of the first. Canyon retaliated with one in their half. DS put up one in the third and added two more in the fourth. In their half Canyon made a push with three. In the process they chased Sadie Bradford, the Lady Tigers ace. In this situation the coach just cannot take a chance to ride out the storm. Tatum Green stepped in to stop the bleeding with a tremendous showing and gained the win. Thirteen hits, including two HR's did not hurt the effort.

Vs NBC: Hits: Lauren Byrnes 3, Green 3, Alex Wiatrek 2, Emma Phillips 2, Lillian Wearden, Bradford, Lorelei Gamble. HR: Wiatrek, Gamble. RBI: Byrnes 3, Wiatrek 3, Gamble. WP: Green 4IP, 1H, 1K; Bradford 3IP, 3H, 4R, 4ER, 5W, 2K.

The Hays County Commissioners Court proclaimed April 29 as “Fentanyl Awareness and Overdose Day” last week, prior to a discussion featuring Janel Rodriguez, founder of the nonprofit Forever 15, and Texas State fentanyl education advocate Kelly Clary. The Hays County Sheriff’s Office also provided data on the decreasing number of fentanyl deaths in the county since 2022.

“Collaboration among local government, law enforcement, public health agencies, educators, higher education institutes and community partners is critical in addressing the fentanyl crisis,” according to the proclamation. “Alongside our community partners, families, educators, and organizations throughout the county continue to demonstrate leadership and commitment to increasing awareness and expanding access to resources in Hays County.”

Matthew Gonzales, Hays County Health Department Director, speaking following the reading of the proclamation, stressed this collaboration between the county and local organizations.

“Part of the mission behind the Behavioral Health Division is to be that lighthouse helping highlight resources for the community,” he said. “But part of Public Health's mission is also social marketing, which is helping change the behaviors of our residents towards positive outcomes. And we can really accomplish that work through the work with our partners that are nonprofits, but also academia.”

Janel Rodriguez started the Forever 15 project after her 15-year-old son Noah died of fentanyl poisoning in 2022.

“We were losing so many kids that year here in Hays County, and I grew up here, and I knew that I didn't want any more of our kids to die,”  Rodriguez said. “We wanted Hays County to be known for something more than just losing all of these kids.”

“Because of this tragedy, we started the Forever 15 Project to spread awareness and to provide resources for those who are at risk or who know someone at risk and to honor those who have been lost,” according to the Forever 15 website.

Chief Deputy Brett Bailey of the Hays County Sheriff’s Office provided an update on fentanyl poisonings in the county in a letter submitted in conjunction with the proclamation:

“2022 marked the highest number of poisonings, with 31 incidents and six resulting in death. In 2023, there were 25 poisonings with eight fatalities. In 2024 that number dropped significantly to nine poisonings, six of which were fatal. In 2025 we saw just four poisonings and notably zero deaths.

“Over the past year, from April 1, 2025, to April 1, 2026, we have documented only two poisonings, both early this year, with none reported since January,” according to Bailey.

Bailey also praised the work of Rodriguez and Noah’s father Brandon.

“Our agency has been fortunate to partner with Janel Rodriguez and Brandon Dunn through the Forever 15 project initiative that has made a profound and measurable impact, not only in Hays County, but across the country and beyond.

“Since its inception in 2022 Forever 15 has reached more than 10,000 students, along with countless parents and community members through conferences and presentations. Their work has extended far outside of Central Texas, even internationally, as keynote speakers at a major drug conference in Mexico City,” according to Bailey.

Commissioner Walt Smith said that the Forever 15 project started as a request by Rodriguez to put up a billboard on I-35 to make people aware of the dangers of fentanyl.

“We've come a long way from that,” Smith said. “I want to thank our DA’s office for being so proactive, going after the highest sentences they can for the people who are dealing this in our community. I think there is an understanding in our community now that if you deal or If you deal in fentanyl, you could get charged with murder.”

Kelly Clary, Associate Professor at Texas State University, spoke in support of the proclamation. Clary's current funded projects include a $1.9 million SAMHSA grant supporting Hays County in implementing fentanyl education for middle and high schoolers.

“Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. What makes fentanyl especially dangerous is not just its potency, but its presence where people don't expect it,”  Clary said “It is increasingly found mixed into counterfeit pills and other substances, often without a person's knowledge. Many individuals who experience an overdose never intended to use fentanyl at all.”

Clary emphasized that fentanyl awareness is not just a public health issue, but a community responsibility.

“It requires collaborations between school districts, healthcare providers, first responders, policymakers as well as families. It is about making sure that every person, especially our youth and young adults, have access to accurate information, practical tools and the confidence to act when it matters most,” Clary said.

A genuine time-capsule, The Pound House Farmstead offers a living depiction of early life in the Texas Hill Country. The gardens and grounds include an oak tree that is over 500 years old, known as “The Heritage Oak” and antique roses brought as cuttings from Sarah Pound’s native Mississippi in 1853 still thrive today.

PHF Farmstead Manager Brenda DeWitt, invites the Hill Country community to “Join us in celebrating 171 years of Pound House Farmstead history and America’s 250th year anniversary.” 

Pioneer Day events include a hayride, children’s crafts and activities such as candle dipping, corn husk dolls making, a musical instrument show and tell, leather stitching, corn shelling and grinding, butter churning and demonstrations of Dutch oven cooking, soap making, blacksmithing, quilting, weaving and spinning. 

A kid-friendly event, games for children include dominoes, checkers, chess, stilts, hoop and stick, gunny sacks, Lincoln Logs and a corn cob toss. 

Turcotte’s and the Dripping Springs Cook-Off Club will be located on the grounds as will a Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Buffalo soldier and a Native American Hoop Dancer. Adults may tour historic homes, a new one-room schoolhouse as well as shop a quilt sale, vintage rummage sale, silent auction, sweet shop, a provisions store, fine handmade jewelry and other nonprofit booths.

Live music will be provided by Alex Dormont, Ryker Pantano and Randall McKinney. 

For admission information and updates visit phfmuseum.org. The Pound House is located at 419B Founders Park Road. It is included on the National Register of Historic Places and was designated a Texas State Historical Landmark in 1965. It has been a museum since May 4, 2003.

The name change to Bluebonnet Therapy Specialists represents more than a rebrand—it signals an expansion of services designed to meet the evolving needs of the community. In addition to its established therapy offerings, the organization is now introducing in-home physical therapy services tailored specifically for senior adults. This addition aims to increase accessibility and comfort for older patients, allowing them to receive high-quality care in the familiarity of their own homes.

At the same time, Bluebonnet Therapy Specialists is broadening its in-clinic services to better support children and families. The clinic now offers occupational therapy for pediatric clients, focusing on helping children develop essential life skills, improve motor coordination, and gain greater independence. This expansion reflects the organization’s dedication to early intervention and comprehensive, family-centered care.

Leaders at Bluebonnet Therapy Specialists emphasized that the changes are rooted in a deep commitment to personalized, compassionate care. The ribbon-cutting event served not only as a celebration of growth but also as a reaffirmation of the clinic’s mission to provide accessible, high-quality therapy services. As the organization moves forward under its new name, it aims to continue building strong connections within the community while enhancing the health and well-being of those it serves.

Mayor Bill Foulds, who ran unopposed, will also be returning to office. He received 287 votes across absentee, early voting and Election Day ballots.

In the City Council Place 2 race, Husted secured 196 votes, or 57.65%, defeating Wade King, who received 144 votes, or 42.35%. A total of 340 votes were cast in the race.

Crow won the Place 4 seat with 183 votes, or 55.62%, compared to 146 votes, or 44.38%, for Mitch Royer. The race drew 329 total votes.

Voters in the area also weighed in on several special district elections, including the Headwaters Municipal Utility District, where candidates competed for director positions with the top 3 receiving votes expected to take office. Dennis Lynn Grebe led the field with 34 votes, followed by Theodore D. Crawford with 31 votes. Jonathan L. Fitzgerald received 21 votes, while John Windom IV received 14 votes.

The Dripping Springs races were part of a broader uniform election across Hays County that included municipal contests in the cities of Hays and Uhland, as well as multiple races for the Hays Consolidated Independent School District board of trustees.

Countywide turnout was low, with 1,926 ballots cast out of 101,415 registered voters, representing 1.90% participation.

The results remain unofficial until canvassed by local governing bodies.

Selected by a committee of district educators and staff, Bloys and McCauley will now represent DSISD in the Region 13 Teacher of the Year selection process this summer.

Bloys joined Cypress Springs Elementary in fall 2021 and is in her third year as a Structured Learning Classroom (SLC) teacher. McCauley is in his sixth year at Dripping Springs High School, where he teaches Engineering and coaches the BEST Robotics program.

In March, Bloys and McCauley were among nine educators named DSISD Campus Teachers of the Year. Other campus winners were Maria Mur (Dripping Springs Elementary), Chelsea Cox (Rooster Springs Elementary), Meredith Gomez (Sycamore Springs Elementary), Skyelar Hale (Walnut Springs Elementary), Leighanne Schlicke (Wildwood Springs Elementary), Amanda Mays (Dripping Springs Middle School), and Heidi Michal (Sycamore Springs Middle School).

Dripping Springs ISD announced the hiring of Rudy Gonzalez as the next principal for Dripping Springs Middle School following a unanimous decision by the DSISD Board of Trustees on Monday, April 27.

Gonzalez brings more than 20 years of experience in Texas public schools, having served as a teacher, athletic coordinator, assistant principal, and principal, including a decade in campus administration.

Most recently, he served as principal of Marble Falls Middle School, where he led the development and implementation of efficient campus systems to strengthen instructional effectiveness and campus culture, support positive student behavior and outcomes, and improve daily operations. Gonzalez also drove academic growth through the implementation of Tier I initiatives and designed and implemented a schoolwide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) framework.

“We are excited to welcome Mr. Gonzalez to DSISD,” said DSISD Superintendent Dr. Holly Morris-Kuentz. “Selecting the right leader for Dripping Springs Middle School was our highest priority, and Mr. Gonzalez embodies what great middle school leadership looks like. He brings a deep commitment to students and staff, paired with operational and community-building skills. We are confident he will build on the strong foundation and heritage already established at DSMS and take it to new heights.”

Prior to his role in Marble Falls ISD, Gonzalez served as an assistant principal in New Braunfels ISD and Seguin ISD. He began his career in Hays CISD as a teacher and coach, later serving as an athletic coordinator and assistant principal.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in Exercise and Sports Science from Texas State University and a master’s degree in Educational Administration from Lamar University.

Gonzalez will begin his new role in June. 

The company, formerly known as Moser Community Media, includes weekly and small daily newspapers serving communities throughout Texas. It has built its footprint over decades of local reporting and community engagement.

Ownership of the group changed in March as part of an acquisition by Times Media Group, but day-to-day operations in Texas continue to be led by familiar faces with deep ties to both the organization and the communities these newspapers serve.

“One of the things we have always taken the most pride in at Times Media Group is preserving the voice and feel of every publication we acquire,” said Steve Strickbine, president of Times Media Group. “These papers are part of the fabric of their communities, and it’s important that they continue to reflect that.”

Mandy Farrow, now serving as senior group publisher, brings more than 25 years of experience in community newspapers and advertising. A native of Tyler, she began her career at the Tyler Morning Telegraph in 2000 and advanced through multiple roles before becoming advertising director at the Palestine Herald-Press in 2006.

Her career has included work with both family-owned newspapers and larger media companies, with experience in multiple states before returning to Texas. That range, she said, has shaped her approach to leading a statewide group of local publications.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to oversee our operations across the state of Texas,” Farrow said. “Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of serving in a variety of roles, each of which has contributed to my growth and prepared me for this responsibility.”

Farrow said community newspapers remain central to the identity and connection of the towns they serve.

“A community newspaper is the heartbeat of a town,” she said. “For more than 100 years, we’ve seen a lot of change, and 2026 is no different. One of my newspaper mentors once told me, ‘Good communication of ideas is the difference between success and failure,’ and that’s something we carry with us every day. While some things need to evolve, we’re dedicated to making community papers stronger and will be here for decades to come. I’m really excited to share what’s ahead for our communities and our team across the state.”

Working alongside Farrow is Mark Henry, who serves as group manager and brings more than four decades of experience in Texas community journalism.

Pedernales Electric Cooperative was the parade sponsor for this year’s Dripping Springs Founders Day Festival. PEC’s crew in blue walked along Mercer Street sporting a Texas theme — complete with a professional roper, boot-shaped balloons, and employees in Texas shirts and western hats.  Photo courtesy of PEC

In a public statement issued April 28, Mayor Bill Foulds acknowledged residents’ concerns about tree clearing and the impact on the area’s natural landscape but emphasized that most of the property is not within city jurisdiction.

“We understand the concern many in our community have regarding site clearing of land associated with a coming Target retail store near the City of Dripping Springs,” Foulds said. “Our community and City Council care deeply about our natural landscape, especially our heritage trees, and the character of our Hill Country home.”

According to the city, the majority of the project site falls outside its boundaries, with only a small portion located within the city’s extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ), where regulatory authority is limited. A map included with the statement shows the ETJ area in blue, with the cleared portion outside city limits.

“It is important for residents to know that the majority of this property is not within the City of Dripping Springs’ jurisdiction, and we have no control of what is done in areas such as these,” Foulds said.

City officials said no development is currently proposed within the portion of the land that does fall under the ETJ.

The city has not received any permit applications related to the project, and local ordinances, including tree preservation rules, do not apply outside city jurisdiction, according to the statement.

“The City has not received any permit applications related to this project or the area within our ETJ, and City ordinances, including tree preservation, do not apply outside of our jurisdiction,” Foulds said.

Instead, the development is being reviewed at the county level.

“This development is being reviewed at the Hays County level, and based on coordination with the County, it will include a new Target store and possibly other retail,” Foulds said.

City leaders also noted they do not have authority over lighting or signage for the project, despite Dripping Springs’ designation as an International Dark Sky Community.

“While we do not have oversight of lighting plans for developments outside our jurisdiction, City staff have proactively reached out to project representatives to open a dialogue about the importance of responsible lighting and preserving our night skies,” Foulds said.

Foulds said the city will continue to work with regional partners where possible but encouraged residents to direct questions or concerns about the project to Hays County, which is serving as the reviewing authority.

“We remain committed to protecting the character of Dripping Springs within the areas where we do have authority, and we will continue to work collaboratively with regional partners whenever possible,” he said.

Competing in Lexington, Kentucky, Dripping Springs advanced to the quarterfinal round for the second consecutive year. The team’s Secretariat squad included Liam Ianiro, Abir Kulkarni, Zoey Parks, Pia Rajneesh and Shreyas Rangaraju.

At the Texas Forensic Association State Tournament in March, 12 Dripping Springs students qualified to compete. In World Schools Debate, Liam Ianiro placed fourth and Zoey Parks placed sixth among top speakers in the state.

Students competing at the state tournament included:

• World Schools Debate: Liam Ianiro, Zoey Parks, Shreyas Rangaraju, Anayeli Hernandez, Thomas Ibanez Duran, Zoe Perez, Elizabeth Banks and Bennett James
• Congressional Debate: Aaniya Khan and Pia Rajneesh
• Lincoln-Douglas Debate: Abir Kulkarni
• Program Oral Interpretation: Anvika Jain

Four students also qualified for the National Speech and Debate Association National Tournament, scheduled for June 14–19 in Richmond, Virginia. Qualifiers include Liam Ianiro, Abir Kulkarni and Zoey Parks in World Schools Debate, along with Pia Rajneesh in Congressional Debate.

In addition to competitive success, six students earned Academic All-American honors from the National Speech and Debate Association: Annika Gillella, Jenna Hall, Aaniya Khan, Liam Ianiro, Abir Kulkarni and Zoey Parks. The recognition requires students to reach a Superior Distinction level of 750 points, complete at least five semesters of high school coursework, maintain a minimum 3.7 GPA and demonstrate strong character and leadership.

The honors cap off another successful year for the Dripping Springs program, which continues to rank among the top speech and debate teams in Texas.

The Regional Track meet did not end well for the Dripping Springs entrants. No one got to advance to state besides Izzy Crew in the wheelchair division. In the boys division, Major Bettridge finished eleventh in shot put with a toss of 49'9.5. His teammate, Thiago Valles placed 12th in the Long Jump with a leap of 19'8.25. In the girls division Morgan Riley placed 7th in the 800 with a time of 2.23.03. Adeline Spies, in the pole vault, watched her chances disappear when she failed to clear the opening height. Izzy Crew won all three of her events: Shot Put: 18'11; 100: 19.36; 400: 1.06.83.

As we mentioned last week, the Tigers shutdown Westlake 10-0 to nail down second place. Blake Cox tossed a six-inning no-hitter. The next day they came out on top of a 4-3 battle with Bowie. The Tigers were able to get in their two very damp games with Vista Ridge and came away victorious. In the first one the Tigers scored early and late to take it 9-1. Cox tossed another shutout while his team would score all five runs in the sixth for the 5-0 clincher. Jake Pardue had 3 rbis. This puts the Tigers into the Area series with SA Brandeis. Games will be played this Thursday, Friday and maybe Saturday.

Vs Westlake: Hits: Breydan Madeley 3, Pardue 2, Bobby Wilkinson 2, Jason Steele, Nixon Badilla, Cash Nelson, Cade Sanders. 2B: Sanders, Pardue, Wilkinson. 3B: Wilkinson. HR: Steele. WP: Cox 6IP, 3W, 11K.

Vs Bowie: Hit: Madeley 2, Branyon, Pardue, Sanders. Pit: Sanders 2IP, 1H, 1K; Badilla 2IP, 4H, 1R, 1ER, 1K; Logan Starnes 2IP, 1H, 2R, 2K; Oscar Johnson 1IP, 1W, 3K.

Vs VR1: Hit: Madeley 3, Branyon 2, Anthony Delgado 2, Sanders 2, Pardue, Badilla, Colby Wilson. 2B: Badilla, Delgado, Branyon, Sanders. 3B: Wilson. Pit: Sanders 3.1IP. 3H, 1R, 1ER, 1W, 3K; Badilla 2.2IP, 1H, 2W, 5K; Johnson 1IP, 1K.

Vs VR2: Hit: Pardue 2, Wilkinson 2, Branyon , Steele, Madeley, Sanders. 2B: Pardue; 3B: Pardue. WP: Cox 7IP, 3H, 2W, 13K

In the first game, DS scored three in the third to start the scoring, then added two in the fifth and four in the sixth and added another run in the seventh. Connor finally got on the board with their three in the sixth. Lorelei Gamble was walked five times to keep her power at bay but her teammates took up the slack.

The second game went down to the wire and the run in the seventh was needed to win the game. DS jumped out to a three-run lead in the first and added one more in the third but would give up two, two-run innings to enter the seventh tied. Byrnes sacrificed Morgan Riley to second putting DS in a two-out situation. Phillips drilled a sharp groundball to the shortstop who unleashed a wild throw that allowed Riley to score the winning run.

Vs OC1: Hits: Alex Wiatrek 3, Lillian Wearden 3, McKenna Riley, Emma Phillips, Tatum Green. 2B: Wiatrek, Green. 3B: Wiatrek; RBI: Wiatrek 3. WP: Sadie Bradford 5.2IP, 5H, 3R, 3ER, 2W, 4K; Green 1.1IP, 3H.

Vs OC2: Hits: Lauren Byrnes 2, Gamble 2, Wiatrek, Wearden, Phillips. 2B: Gamble; RBI: Byrnes 2, Gamble 2. Pit: Green 5IP, 7H, 4R, 3ER, 1W, 2K; WP: Bradford 2IP, 2H, 1K.