Hays County Echo

HAYS COUNTY

ECHO SUMMER 2019

INSIDE

n i g n i v i l or i Sen y t n ou C s y Ha From diet to exercise, to estate planning, to a little bit of local history, the fall Hays County Echo touches on topics that are important to the 50+ community.

Moses Leos| III A product of photo Bartonby Publications 1

HAYS COUNTY

ECHO is published monthly by Barton Publications, Inc 113 W. Center St., Kyle, TX Contents © February 2018.

Publisher Cyndy Slovak–Barton Editor Moses Leos III Graphics Director David White Contributing Writers Moses Leos III Exsar Arguello Katie Burrell David White

Contributing Photographers Moses Leos III Exsar Arguello Katie Burrell David White

EDITOR’S NOTE

Stay golden, seniors S

taying spry as a spring chicken as we hit our golden years often comes with a warning label as large as a highway billboard, or at least that’s what I’ve been told.

Creaks and groans heard in the house don’t always come from a door or floorboard.

And let’s not get started with Hollywood’s portrayal of aging adults, either. But in today’s day and age of internet technology and self-driving automobiles, 50 and 60 is now the new 30 and 40 in same cases.

Seeing our elders accomplish feats such as surfing, pole vaulting and skydiving isn’t

so passé as it once was. Heck, most of us encourage it.

It’s with that in mind that we at the Hays County Echo salute our seniors and offer ways for them to stay as healthy as possible.

In this edition, we offer seniors tips on how to stay heart healthy as possible, whether it’s getting regular

check-ups or balancing their diet.

We then focus on ensuring our seniors have quality mental care, too. Stroke prevention, as well as enjoying life on the road

by RV’ing and even just finding one’s inner peace is covered.

Be sure to take a trip on our way back machine as we chronicle the Birdwell family in our “What’s in a Name” series.

From heart health to mental health and so much more, the Hays County Echo has our senior residents covered.

Thanks for reading and cowabunga.

Moses Leos III, Editor

INSIDE Combatting heart disease........................................................................... 4

Distribution David White

Cost of uninsured Texans could have impact on the economy.............. 6

Marketing Tracy Mack Jim Darby

Lessen the risk of stroke........................................................................... 10

Office Manager Verna Wommack For advertising information, please contact our sales department at 512–268–7862.

See the Hays County Echo online for free at www.HaysFreePress.com

2 | Hays County Echo | FALL 2019

Estate planning............................................................................................ 8 Activities with limited mobility................................................................ 12 Changing your diet..................................................................................... 14 Vacation in an RV....................................................................................... 16 Find inner peace......................................................................................... 17 Embrace technology.................................................................................. 18 Benefits of assisted living........................................................................ 20 What’s in a name? The Birdwell family................................................... 22 Service Directory........................................................................................ 23

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Combatting the leading cause of death in the U.S.

BY MOSES LEOS III Despite advances in medical science, healthcare officials urge senior citizens to move more and eat less in order to stay as heart-healthy as possible.

Ultimately, Mark Gajjar, interventional and structural cardiologist with Assertion Seton, said seniors should try to find ways to stay mobile and exercise, which could go a long way to helping identify any possible health-related problems.

“We treat people with coronary stents and medicine and even do structural heart procedures,” Gajjar said. “At the end of the day, it comes down to moving more and eating less to promote one’s health.”

Gajjar said exercising goes a long way for senior citizens to prevent future heart conditions. Today’s cardiologists are seeing much older patients come their way than in years past, Gajjar said.

4 | Hays County Echo | FALL 2019

While every person is different, Dr. Mark Gajjar said seniors should be mobile at least once per day. Exercising offers an “unofficial stress test” for seniors and helps tell doctors how someone is doing based on their operational procedures.

Where once 50- to 60-yearold patients were commonplace, today doctors must also treat more 80- to 90-year-old patients.

Doctors suggest that seniors find and establish a good routine that fits their lifestyle. Making sure they’re able to complete the routine

without impacting any existing knee or joint issues is also an important factor.

While every person is different, Gajjar said seniors should be mobile at least once per day. Exercising offers an “unofficial stress test” for seniors and helps tell doctors how someone is doing based on their operational procedures.

Healthcare providers can then further look into issues such as shortness of breath or pain in the chest and determine if there’s something more to the problem, allowing them to treat it.

“If by chance there’s any sort of issue, such as coronary heart diseases, we can know about it sooner rather than later and tackle that diseased entity,” Gajjar said.

Changing eating habits also goes a long way to establishing a healthier heart. Gajjar said cardiologists are still battling high cholesterol and high blood pressure problems.

According to the American Heart Association, an estimated 85.6 million Americans have one or more types of cardiovascular disease. Of that amount, close to 43.7 million are over the age of 60, with elderly women experiencing more heart-related issues.

Per the American Heart Association, two-thirds of cardiovascular deaths occur in people over the age of 75.

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S., according to 2017 National Safety Council statistics.

“We want people to have a good lifestyle in which they live healthier lives based on their day-to-day choices and their habits,” Gajjar said.

cedures such as Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR).

TAVR, which Gajjar said is a miracle of modern day medicine, is a minimally invasive SENIORS LIVING LONGER WITH procedure that replaces a narrowed aortic valve impacted MEDICAL SCIENCE by aortic stenosis, or calcium At the same time, medical deposits in the heart valve. Aorscience has also helped cartic stenosis is a disease typically diologists treat older patents and get them back on the road found in older patients and occurs as the heart ages. to recovery much faster.

Gajjar said TAVR is used As a structural cardiologist, when open heart surgery isn’t a relatively new specialty in the field, Gajjar said he’s often possible for those who are elderly and are not physically called upon to complete pro-

able to handle that procedure.

Overall, cardiologists typically to avoid open heart surgery in older patients based on a possible inability to rehabilitate from it.

“We’re keeping people alive longer and feeling well,” Gajjar said.

Establishing check-ups with primary care physicians benefits overall heart health for seniors.

“People should trust their primary care physicians,” Gajjar said. “We let them know we’re here to help them out.”

“We want people to have a good lifestyle in which they live healthier lives based on their day-to-day choices and their habits.”

A product of Barton Publications | 5

Cost of uninsured Texans could have impact on economy

BY EXSAR ARGUELLO A high percentage of uninsured residents not only costs Texas billions of dollars per year, but has an impact on the economy as well.

A lack of health insurance statewide, particularly with people under the age of 18, could have lasting effects beyond personal health, according to a study by the Texas Alliance for Healthcare.

According to the study, uninsured residents could cost Texas $178 billion by 2040.

At the surface, this loss in revenue may be overshadowed by a booming business economy in Texas. For experts, the uninsured rate could overshadow these advancements in business.

“We need to keep our people healthy so they’re producing, they’re generating, they’re keeping things going,” said Douglas Curran, M.D. and President at Texas Medical 6 | Hays County Echo | FALL 2019

In 2016, almost five million Texans under the age of 65, or 16% of the population, were without health insurance, almost double the national average.

uninsured rate.

Locally, Seton Hays in Kyle and Dell Children’s Medical Center of Central Texas in Austin are working with families and children to ensure healthcare can be a reality for lower socioeconomic households.

Seton Hays doctors, nurses Association. “But if they’re not Business (TAB). “Texas employ- and professional staff consult properly cared for and supers should not struggle to find uninsured patents on healthported and empowered, then the skilled workers they need, care options like Medicaid and the people we really need to nor lose employees falling out the Children’s Health Insurance keep our business environof the workforce altogether due Program (CHIP). This can inment pristine will begin to drift to unmanaged illness.” clude walking patients through away.”

The estimated price tag the application process for In 2016, almost five million for hospitals and physicians healthcare programs.

Texans under the age of 65, or providing unsubsidized and Additionally, Ascension is 16% of the population, were uncompensated care hit $12.4 prioritizing preventative care without health insurance, billion by 2040, leading experts efforts to keep patients out of almost double the national to call for a comprehensive emergency rooms and living a average. overhaul of the healthcare healthier, sustainable lifestyle.

“Without access to preventa- system in the state.

“We’re seeing commercial tive health care, our workforce Whether that comes in the insurance, Medicaid and CHIP is compromised by absenteeform of a more diverse insurtransition high-cost care to ism that limits Texas employance system or a universal low-cost care, bending the cost ers’ access to a reliable and system is unclear. However, curve across the state,” said consistent workforce,” said Jeff hospitals are working to craft Dell Children’s Medical Center Mosley, the Chief Executive Of- initiatives in preventative care President Chris Born. “What ficer of the Texas Association of as a workaround to such a high we’re doing is working to

prevent unnecessary visits for health issues like diabetes and preventable illnesses.”

Medicaid organizations in the Central Texas region are also focusing resources on educating low-income populations on how to access the right care at the right location, Born said.

Born said the Texas Health and Human Services Commission has incentivized hospitals to reduce the number of emergency room visits to keep children with a pediatrician.

Exponentially more expensive than a typical pediatric visit, ERs are often the first resort for people without healthcare despite the inevitable financial burden it can place on a family, Born said.

“Just pediatrics alone, around 55 out of 100 children will be on Medicaid or CHIP in the region,” Born said. “But there are still patients who are completely eligible for these services that don’t know how to apply.”

Focusing on preventative care has become a growing practice in the medical world, At Seton Hays, this educational outreach can keep people out of emergency rooms and into

direct contact with a physician who can work directly on changing habits to promote a healthier lifestyle.

“Being uninsured can be devastating,” said Eduardo Sanchez, chief medical officer for prevention at the American Heart Association. “People without health coverage have much less access to preventative, acute and ongoing medical care than those with insurance, which can lead to delayed care, later diagnosis or easily detectable or preventable diseases, worsening or

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Born said Ascension Seton has contributed over $3 billion in charity healthcare throughout its operation as a means to aid local communities and educate people on their healthcare options.

The report is critical of the state’s lack of attention to the uninsured crisis in Texas, citing lawmakers must enact policy changes to help people receive insurance.

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Estate planning Getting your ducks in a row before it’s too late

BY MOSES LEOS III Thinking about how to best handle one’s affairs in the event of catastrophe isn’t a conversation most people like to entertain.

But an unwillingness to think critically about what happens after that moment, no matter one’s age, could have disastrous results, says Kyle area attorney John Hall.

Without formal in-place documentation spelling out how a person’s finances, property and more are handled in the event of injury, incapacity or death, those left behind to deal with it all could be behind the 8-ball.

Hall, who has been in the business of estate planning since 1997, said knowing when to start planning for the future depends on each person’s situation in life.

For some, the right time to begin planning comes after they enter into a mortgage for a home, get married or have a child. In other cases, Hall said people begin estate planning after receiving a terminal illness diagnosis or once they enter their golden years.

Talking about certain aspects of estate planning, primarily wills, power of attorney and medical power of attorney, is daunting for people as they might feel they’re “death warrants.”

However, Hall has also seen instances where no documentation, or poorly crafted documentation, led to confusion among living relatives, leaving the courts to decide how to handle it all.

In Texas, any cases that doesn’t involve a will involves going through the legal process, which might result in family members not getting the result they desired.

“I see what they’re thinking, but the reality is it’s not a mature situation,” Hall said.

Whichever document one considers, Hall said one of the first major pieces of information is naming the three people most trusted in one’s life. Those three people would be considered as possible fiduciaries, or people who handle any business in the event of an emergency or death.

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ents or relatives; older individuals might identify a longtime friend or neighbors as their fiduciary.

But at the same time, Hall said geography should be a major factor when deciding whom to trust down the road.

Typically, most fiduciaries are located close to the person who’s estate planning. Distance could complicate the process of getting documents completed, Hall said.

“They don’t have to be Einstein or the Pope, but it’s someone you can call upon during your time of need,” Hall said. “If you’re hospitalized or put in jail, they’re the person you’d call.”

Sitting down and planning with a trusted attorney and ironing out the estate planning process is an investment worth taking, Hall said. Attorneys can help people identify their fidicuaries and beneficiaries, along with finding out what documents they may or may not need.

In addition, trusted attorneys can help people craft documentation that can hold up in the legal setting and eliminate any possible confusion.

Homemade wills or POAs, as well as those crafted online, could be “real loose” and can create problems when it comes time to making the hard decisions.

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Lessen the risk of strokes T

he risks of experiencing a life-threatening stroke increases with age.

In fact, the National Center for Biotechnology Information estimates that 70% of victims are aged 65 or older.

While the risks associated with age are out of your control, there are numerous lifestyle changes you can make to lessen your chances of experiencing one.

Do you know the signs of a stroke? The National Institutes on Aging encourages us to become familiar with these symptoms and call 911 immediately if you are experiencing them: • Sudden confusion or inability to speak coherently; • Numbness or weakness to the head, arm or leg -

especially on one side of the body; • Problems seeing in one or both eyes; and • Sudden dizziness or a severe headache occurring with no known cause.

The speed at which you identify a stroke and receive medical help can greatly impact the lasting effects during recovery.

LOWER THE RISKS The United States Department of Health and Human Services suggests that keeping your blood pressure in the normal range is one of the most important steps to lower your risk of a stroke.

Here are a few more actions they recommend.

Be physical and eat healthy

10 | Hays County Echo | FALL 2019

to maintain a healthy weight.

Quit smoking. Regulate cholesterol and blood sugar levels and treat conditions of heart disease.

PROACTIVE HEALTH CARE Without regular checkups, it’s impossible to understand your stroke risks. Take control of your health by committing to a proactive routine with your primary physician. With a few simple tests, doctors can discover the likelihood of an episode and offer tips on how to resolve the risks.

Harvard Health Publishing says one such screening, a carotid ultrasound, is efficient in identifying a buildup of cholesterol-filled plaque in arteries in the neck. These are the vessels that deliver blood to the brain and can

cause a stroke once blocked.

Doctors may also determine stroke-inducing heart problems by simply listening with a stethoscope. They will be watching for irregular rates or rhythms.

LEARN FAMILY HISTORY While you can change your lifestyle to promote healthier living, your genetics may mean you are predisposed to the risks of a stroke. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says conditions like heart disease, and sickle-cell disease as well as others. Understanding your risk due to family history can show you the seriousness of your risks and improve your efforts to make changes to maintain your health.

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Activities with limited mobility While there are many health disorders that can affect your mobility and energy, you shouldn’t be discouraged from engaging in more stationary activities.

If it’s difficult to stay physically active, challenging your mind can have great health benefits to your cognitive health.

According to the National Institutes on Aging, simple activities like reading, photography and learning a new skill can improve your memory and ability to think. If you’re struggling to find activities to

occupy your time, consider partaking in some of these beneficial activities.

READING A great way to spend time indoors during the crisp autumn temperatures is in the company of a good book.

Whether you’re aiming to improve your knowledge on a subject or inspiring creativity by delving into a nonfiction read, the organization Reading Partners suggests reading is a proven way to reduce stress, combat mental decline and increase empathy. The mental benefits of enjoying a story or article are something to take advantage of.

VOLUNTEER AT A LOCAL CHARITY Contributing monetary

12 | Hays County Echo | SUMMER FALL 20192019

donations is a great way to feel a sense of accomplishment and help a worthy cause. Volunteering your time can be even more beneficial. Look around your community for organizations that need help to enhance their mission. You can look for jobs like serving at a food shelter, reading to children and preparing community events to raise money.

PLAY CHALLENGING GAMES Challenge and improve your mental skills by participating in puzzle-solving games. You can typically find difficult crossword puzzles or sudoku challenges within your daily newspaper. When using a pencil to complete these activities is too difficult, consider investing in a touchscreen tablet and

download challenging apps that are easier to play.

TAKE IN THE LOCAL ARTS SCENE Enhance your culture by absorbing art contributions from your local artists or by visiting different museums in your own region. Familiarize yourself with different techniques, and styles like abstract, realism and impressionism.

Become a part of the local art community where you can build significant relationships with other enthusiasts or collectors. Don’t be afraid to try your hand at creating your own masterpiece. Look around your area for painting or art lessons and ask the peers you find navigating art galleries about local classes.

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Change your diet It’s never too late to make lifestyle changes that positively impact our health. As people age, diets become increasingly important to lessen the risks of disease by eating nutritious items.

If you’re unfamiliar with what it takes to create a well-balanced menu, you should start by asking your general practitioner for a referral to a quality nutritionist.

Based on your health and diet, they can recommend a plan that works specifically for you. Check with your health care provider to ensure their services are covered by your insurance. Here are some basic tips to get you started toward clean eating from the National Council on Aging.

USE MYPLATE Do you remember the food pyramid that the United States Department of Agriculture in-

troduced to America in 1992?

While it served as an efficient guide to help people understand the important nutrients they needed, in 2011, the MyPlate system was created.

While it stays true to the importance of fruits, vegetables and protein, the new guide makes it simpler to visualize how much of each should be eaten. Check it out before changing up your diet toward better health.

VARIETY OF NUTRIENTS In addition to sticking to the proper serving levels of different nutrients, the National Council on Aging also recommends that a plate should contain bright, colored foods as they contain important vitamins.

Make sure to check the Nutrition Facts label and ensure it is packed with nutrients and low on fat, sugar and sodium.

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Discuss your new eating plan with your doctor or nutritionist to discover what your body needs and what you should avoid based on your health.

STICK TO RECOMMENDED SERVINGS Even healthy foods should

be eaten with a serving limit in mind. Check out these new guidelines from the American Heart Association for people over 60 years of age: five servings of vegetables per day; four servings of fruit per day; and eight to nine servings of meat per week.

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Vacation in an RV For those who retired and reside in a cooler region, it’s not uncommon to leave home as fall and winter enter.

Traveling to warmer destinations can be affordable if you have a vacation home. However, when your plan includes an extended stay hopping from condos or hotels, the costs can rack up quickly.

One way to avoid the expense is by investing in an RV and bringing the comforts of home with you. Driving the American roadways and stopping for rest at different campgrounds or camper resorts offers a new perspective on vacation and can even create life-long friendships with other travelers.

Before heading to the RV dealership, here are some

decisions you should plan to make.

ically offer the largest living space in towable campers.

Your truck must be equipped with a fifth-wheel hitch which TYPE OF CAMPER The size and length of your usually requires an additional camper largely lies on the type installation.

Travel trailer: A campof vehicle you plan to use for er built to be towed with a hauling. If you already have common bumper hitch, they a truck for towing, explain to your salesman its limits. How- accommodate campers with easy towing and a wide variety ever, if you plan to purchase an RV, then a vehicle for haul- of floor plans and features to choose from. ing, your options for weight and towing options are vaster.

BUY NEW OR USED? Here are a few of the most common RVs to choose from.

Many RV shoppers may Class A & C: Perfect for full- choose to purchase their vetime campers, you can forgo hicle through a private party an additional towing vehicle to save money. Unless you’re as these camping companions buying from a trusted source, are built on a truck or bus this investment can be a mischassis and equipped with a take, especially if the camper drivetrain. was mistreated by a previous Fifth wheel: These RVs typ- owner.

16 | Hays County Echo | FALL 2019

For the best peace of mind that you are buying a reliable vehicle, work with a professional dealership. Even their used units may come with an extended warranty and a guarantee that it has been thoroughly inspected. Buying a brand new unit is your best chance to take advantage of the latest and greatest features offered by a manufacturer.

Look for enhanced heating or cooling systems if you plan to trek into extreme temperature regions and floor plans that make sense to your lifestyle. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t see your dream machine sitting on the lot, most reputable dealers can custom order the perfect RV because of their relationships with manufacturers.

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Find inner peace Some of us constantly find our minds racing. Whether it’s about health conditions, financial burdens or family difficulties, clearing the distractions from your head and finding inner silence is beneficial.

It helps us work through our problems and navigate life with a sense of calm.

While it may be easy to think that you can just shut your mind off and relish in serenity, that’s not always the case. Finding peace in your mind takes practice, dedication and accepting what makes your brain race.

If you’re ready to stop the chatter in your mind that disturbs your daily life, here are some tips to get you started.

LIVE STRESS FREE According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), suffering from long-term stress can strain your body and contribute to worsening symptoms regarding mental health. These are the most common reasons people are susceptible to stress.

Not getting enough sleep, lack of a support network, experiencing poor physical health and not eating a healthy diet also adds to stress.

While there may be bigger factors at play, making minor changes can decrease the amount of stress you experience.

DON’T NEGLECT YOUR BODY Much like your vehicle you rely on to navigate through town, your body requires maintenance to perform at its best. Regular exercise doesn’t only benefit your physical health, it also releases stress-relieving hormones throughout your body. While beginning a routine may be difficult, as it becomes a part of your life, it’s a fun and expected experience for your body and mind.

You should also treat yourself to healthy eating options.

The NAMI suggests that eating unprocessed foods like whole grains, vegetables and fruits is the foundation for overall health. Eating a healthier diet is also shown to stabilize your mood.

MEDITATE If you are skeptical of the benefits gained through meditation, the experts at the Exploration of Consciousness Research Institute encourage us to try it to improve self-discipline, concentration, motivation and a positive mindset. Meditation is a way to delve deep into our minds to discover the roots of stressful issues and can teach us to accept them or build a plan of resolution.

If you list or buy a home through StarTex Real Estate we will donate 10% of our sales commission upon closing and funding of the sale to local non-profit organizations.

Call us today! 512-312-1150 Giving back to the communities where we live, work and love!

We know how it works!

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www.sanmarcosbailbonds.com A product of Barton Publications | 17

Embrace Technology Since modern technology advances so rapidly, it’s hard to keep up with the latest trends and innovations. However, smart devices can benefit seniors by offering life-saving alerts, health trackers and offer exciting ways to stay in touch with family.

If you feel like you’ve been left behind by tech upgrades, it’s not too late to get back in the swing of things and learn how it can enhance your life.

The experts at the Consumer Technology Association estimate that the tech industry for the elderly will reach $30 billion by 2030. This will include senior-specific devices and innovations that directly benefit aging people, their caregivers

and family members. Here are a few exceptional technologies that are already available.

MEDICATION REMINDERS If you take different medicine doses throughout the day, it’s easy to forget or lose track of time. Ensuring you stick to the schedule as prescribed by a doctor is important so the medicine can reach its potential.

There are numerous apps and software available that will alert you when it’s time to take your meds.

Some cool features a few include is the ability to share information with your family members and track which pills have already been ingested.

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Having an extra support system to remind you is beneficial when ensuring you’re on schedule.

SOCIALIZE When life gets in the way, it’s not always easy for families to gather for dinner or personal conversations. Thanks to video chats, people can participate in a chat that’s far more intimate than a phone call. Usually, all you need is an efficient internet connection and an application to view your family members while you talk, hands free. It’s a great way to see how much your grandchildren have grown when you live on the other side of the country.

SAFETY DEVICES Personal emergency-response systems have become much more advanced than the previous call button used in the past. Today, there are pendants and sensors available that can be carried on your person or attached to places you frequent like your bed, couch or favorite chair.

Some fall devices can detect when a tumble occurs if you are unable to call for help or alert medical help with the press of a button.

You will get peace of mind that they can work from anywhere, not just home. Ensuring medical assistance is notified as soon as a fall happens can have life-saving effects.

10% Senior Discount

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Subscribe to the and receive all the latest news for Buda, Kyle and surrounging communities for only $42 a year.

Seniors 65 and older receive a 10% discount.

Hays & Travis Counties Out of County 3 Years q $115 q $161 2 Years q $77 q $108 1 Year q $42 q $59 q Over 65 years old? Take 10% off!

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Name: Address: Email: Phone: Payment opitions include check or credit card. Credit cards payments can be made over the phone by calling 512-268-7862. Readers can also mail in information above with a check to: The Hays Free Press • 113 W. Center Street • Kyle, Texas 78640

HaysFreePress.com

www.

A product of Barton Publications | 19

PrePlanning • aftercare Program cremation • traditional ServiceS

FM 2770 & Kohler’s Crossing • 1715 Kirby, Kyle, TX 78640 in Plum Creek

512-268-8200 H www.HarrellFuneralHomes.com

Benefits of Assisted Living Requiring the help of others can be a hard reality to accept.Many seniors may view moving to an assisted living center as giving up their independence. However, these specialized facilities offer people a familiar lifestyle with the security that someone is watching over their health.

Assisted living provides for the next new and exciting chapter in your life.

CAMARADERIE WITH RESIDENTS Social isolation can be a devastating condition for seniors. In fact, the American Association of Retired Persons offers these sobering statistics to consider.

• 17% of adults aged 65 and older feel isolated.

• 26% are at an increased risk of early death due to the feeling of loneliness.

• 46% of women aged 75 and older live alone.

An assisted living facility helps maintain a social life as community events are held to stimulate physical and mental health. Seniors can participate in exercise programs, exciting games and build relationships with staff and fellow residents.

CONSTANT HEALTH CARE SUPERVISION You may not feel like you

need constant supervision at this stage in your life, but as you continue to age, it’s likely your capabilities will falter and make daily activities more difficult. Deciding to commit to an assisted living community before this occurs, allows you to become familiar with the staff and professionals you will later rely on. They are highly trained to offer 24/7 care in a professional and dignified manner.

FARMERS®

Debbie Thames Insurance Agency AUTO • HOME • LIFE • BOAT • HEALTH

Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm 251 N. FM 1626 #2C, Buda, TX 78610 Office: (512) 312-1917 • Fax: 312-0688 dvthames@austin.rr.com

Your Business & Referrals Are Appreciated • 5 & 3 Gal. Bottles • Coolers • .5 Liter Bottles • R/O Filtration • Private Label Available • Drinking • Spring Water • Purified Water • Hot & Cold • Room Temp & Cold

MORE FREE TIME One reason seniors decide to move into assisted living is when the demand of maintenance for their family home becomes too much. Once you downsize and sell your previous property, you gain more free time to use for fun activities or to enhance your health.

HEALTHY AND DELICIOUS MEALS Cooking can become increasingly difficult due to conditions like arthritis, but it’s still important to eat healthy. Most assisted living facilities offer delicious meals which include the nutrients your body needs to age gracefully. Dining centers also give residents the opportunity to enjoy the company of friends as they share an elegant meal.

20 | Hays County Echo | FALL 2019

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Hays County Echo Service Directory AIR CONDITIONING

CONSTRUCTION

A&E Air Conditioning & Heating, LLC

Reliable Handyman

John A. Hall

Painting, remodel & home repair, flooring & tile, carpentry, decks & fences, pressure washing, gutters, cleaning & repair, RV repair. Get your honey-do list done right.

512-618-0482, DHall45@yahoo.com

Attorney and Counselors At Law Business law, wills, trust, probate, family law, divorce, custody, consumer law, deceptive trade, property law, landlord–tenant law, personal, injury, DWI, criminal defense, debt defense, general civil litigation. 130 Hall Professional Center , Kyle, TX. 512–268–6425

Free furnace special, $500 off complete system or 15% off any repair by mentioning you saw us here.

512-312-9535 www.ae4cool.com

APC Service Pros, LLC Air conditioning, heating, electrical, service, repair and installation.

512-410-7739 www.APCServicePros.com

NEMEC Heating and Air Proudly serving Central Texas.

Residential, commercial and after hours available. chris@nemecheatingandair.com 512–312–9081 or 512–789–5132

AUTOMOTIVE AMM Collision Center Three great locations!

Kyle: 21681 IH–35, 262–1013 Austin: 11740 Manchaca Rd., 292–1060 Dripping Springs: 3990 Hwy 290, 512–894–3888

Buda Automotive You know us... by our reputation!

Full service car & truck repair.

601 S. Loop 4 in Buda 512–295–2832

Central Garage, LLC Complete Auto Repair, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

20 Hwy. 290 West, Dripping Springs 512-894-4114 or 512-858-4252

COMPUTER SERVICE Hays Technical Services Want help selecting the best value? Office systems not maintained? Did your kids or employees leave your computer useless? mike@haystech.com

DIRT Rick-Rob Trucking Loam, topsoil, sand, gravel, roadbase, asphalt millings, granite, compost mix. Tractor work available.

Specializing in country driveways.

512-858-7952. robinnds@aol.com, www.rick-rob.com

FINANCIAL PLANNING Barton Financial Group Financial planning, investment planning and insurance planning.

Zach Barton, 512-686-7589 107 S. Main St, Ste A, Kyle, Texas

GLASS Dynamic Glass Commercial & residential. Contract glazing, storefronts, insulated glass, furniture tops, tempered glass, mirrors. Framed & frameless tub & shower enclosures. 512-312-2767 5360 Industrial Way Dr., Buda, TX shallmark@dynamicglass.com

LANDSCAPING Daniel Stone & Landscaping Supplies We deliver. Grass: St. Augustine, Buffalo, Bermuda, Tifway. Chopped rock, patio rock, flagstone, drystack, gravel, river rock, mulch, sand and loam. 12015 Hwy 290 W, Cedar Valley, Austin. 512-288-8488.

Who Does Your Lawn Call Jesse Reyna at 512-788-2180 or email apa6207@sbcglobal.net.

Offering competitive pricing and superior service in the Manchaca, Buda, and Kyle area since 2010. Taking care of all lawn needs so you can play. Mowing, trimming, edging, debris removal, flower bed maintenance

LEGAL SERVICES

PAINTING 699 Painting and More Interior and exterior painting.

Siding & rotten wood replacement.

Sheet rock repairs. Wallpaper removal & wall texture. Pressure washing. Insured & References available, 512-699-0441.

PLUMBING Prince Plumbing Company Residential repair, remodeling, water heaters, sewer maintenance, slab & gas leak repair. 20 years experience, family owned and operated.

512–312–0710

POOL SERVICE G&S Pool and Spa Service Serving South Austin, Dripping Springs, Driftwood, Kyle and Buda since 1994. 512–326–4695. www.gspoolspa.com

High Tide Pool Service Over 10 years cleaning and maintaining pools. Drain & clean, pressure washing, full service repairs, replastering.

Free estimates, call Keith Miller at 512 965-3465.

REMODELING Wild West Remodeling No job too small or too big!

Kitchen/bath remodels, painting, tile, siding, decks, trim, door & window replacements, drywall repair, electrical and plumbing.

Curtis Dorsett, 512–402–4704

ROOFING Area Roofing Company

Serving Hays County. Residential & Commercial. Free estimates.

Insurance claims welcome. Ron Johnson, owner. 512–312–5050

SEPTIC SERVICES All American Wastewater Solutions, LLC

Septic problems... Let us help!

Locally serving our community since 1982. Septic repair and installation specialist, septic tank pumping and servicing, aerobic system servicing and more. Commercial and residential. www.allsepticcheck.com, 512–282–3889.

Sellman Enterprises, Inc.

Septic plumbing, cleaning, repairs Commercial & Residential Serving the Hays Metro area, including Travis, Blanco, Bastrop, Williamson & surrounding counties.

512–312–0002 www.SellmanSepticServices.com

SHOE REPAIR Austin Shoe Hospital

Quality boot & shoe repair as well as purse and luggage repair. Ten locations in Central Texas including: Ben White & Manchaca, 512-4408788; Hwy 290 & Nutty Brown Rd., 512-827-3398; and Hwy 290 in Oak Hill, 512-288-6386.

TREE SERVICES Lees Trees

Firewood, pruning, tree removal, chipping, planting, cedar posts, bulk mulch. Free assessments & estimates. Affordable oak wilt treatment. Schedule ball moss treatment for June. Call Marcus Lees at (512) 858-4018, leestrees@vownet.net

WINDOW TREATMENTS Made in the Shade

Custom window treatments at affordable prices. Graber, Hunter Douglas, Norman and more.

Blinds, shades, draperies and shutters. Low prices with lifetime guarantees and fast professional installation. Call 512-847-8970, www.madeintheshadeofwimberley. com

A product of Barton Publications | 21

What’s in a name?

The Birdwell legacy

BY DAVID WHITE

In our continuing series of What’s in a Name?, we take a look at the namesakes of one of our Buda street signs in a Garlic Creek neighborhood named Birdwell Lane.

The Birdwell legacy began in Buda when Minnie Reagan and William Sherman “W.S.” Birdwell met and later married in 1894. Minnie was the daughter of Daniel and Mary Meredith Reagan who lived on a farm in Manchaca.

W.S. was the son of Henry Landow “H.L.” Birdwell and Cynthia Birdwell who opened the H.L. Birdwell and Son grocery store.

W.S. and Minnie married in 1894. They operated the family grocery store until the death of the elder Birdwell. W.S. then formed a partnership with a man named Sharon Barber who was already a partner in the Buda Mercantile Company in Buda. Birdwell and Barber bought the Buda Mercantile building and continued operation of the store which eventually became known as the 1898 Store, which was an antique store for several decades, owned and operated by Carl and Jeannette Chelf.

W.S. and Minnie bought the Carrington Hotel building and made it their home for many years. In 1925 they bought land on North Main Street, which is now the home of Billy and Tammy Gray.

W.S. and Minnie had a daughter named Jewell and a son named Sherman.

Jewell was the Buda postmaster for 25 years. She married her dad’s business partner Sharon Barber and the two also lived in the old Carrington Hotel house.

Sherman graduated Buda High in 1922 and then went to U.T. After graduation, he went to work for an old family friend named Lyndon Baines Johnson. He helped organize the National Youth Administration, served as L.B.J.’s first

Congressional Secretary and was later appointed director of the Texas Employment Commission.

No known Birdwells still live in the Buda area, but Sherman’s daughter Mary was born in Austin in 1940 and shared memories of visiting W.S. and Minnie’s home on North Main Street in Barbara Younts and Mary Giberson’s book, People and Places In and Around Historic Buda. “I remember how I loved to visit and sleep with my grandmother Minnie and watch the squirrels from the screened porch.”

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In 1925 W.S. and Minnie Birdwell bought land on North Main Street and built a house which is now the home of Billy and Tammy Gray.

Tammy now owns and operates the Buda Drug Store and Billy is a former Buda mayor.

“My earliest memory of Buda was following my father into Birdwells’ Store. On the left was Miss Laura Wright, a clerk in the dry goods section, who could find anything for you. On the right was Kelly Smith, who could do the same in the grocery section. The store had everything – clothing, piece goods, hats, shoes, whatever you needed.”

An account of a Buda resident’s memory of the Birdwell’s store from the Buda Centennial, a special edition published by the Hays Free Press in 1981

L.B.J.’s father Sam Ealy Johnson, Jr. was born on a farm in Buda. He and his family had local relationships in Buda and were regular visitors to the area. According to the book, People and Places In and Around Historic Buda, “When Sam became a member of the Texas Legislature, he was a regular visitor to Buda. He would ride his horse to Buda, board it at Cox’s Stable and take the train to Austin.”

Author Mary Giberson made the following account in her book below.

Sam Ealy Johnson, Jr.

My grandfather, Henry Barton, told me a story about him and Sam (Johnson) often riding their horses to Fredericksburg together to do their ‘courting.’ They both married women from that area. He also told of running into Sam in front of Birdwell’s store one afternoon and Sam asking him if he could borrow five dollars for a marriage license. He concluded his story with ‘If I had not had $5, Lyndon might never have been born.’”

According to city documents, an applicant hopes to revive the Buda Mercantile Company in the nowvacant 1898 building by creating retail space.

A product of Barton Publications | 23

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