Summer Fun/Spring Echo 2021

SUMMER FUN 2021 HAYS COUNTY

ECHO SPRING 2021

A product of Barton Publications, Inc. • Serving Hays County and surrounding communities

Look inside for ideas on how to keep the kids entertained this summer

PHOTO COURTESY OF YMCA

Summer fun:

SUMMER What kids & parents WE DESERVE can expect at camp

BY MEGAN WEHRING

Kids have been cooped up indoors for too long and they are counting down the days until summer when they can have their own little adventure away from home. Camps are being offered this summer for kids to have an outlet away from home.

Local businesses and organizations are working on the logistics of what exactly camp will look like this year. But, they are excited to host some events for kids even if they are virtual.

This summer the Buda Library will focus on virtual-only programs starting on June 3 with a Kick-Off Celebration featuring a virtual petting zoo, Tiny Trails.

Classes then start the week of Monday, June 7, and end Wednesday, Aug. 4.

Summer reading clubs are also offered for all ages to keep track of reading logs and to earn fun prizes.

“COVID-19 definitely has impacted our programs,” said Martha Sanders, executive director at the Buda Library. “But all in all, the library continues to offer our community a variety of quality programs that keep

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our youth involved and connected.”

The Library Foundation in Austin is in the same boat. Badgerdog Creative Writing spring and summer workshops are all virtual; students meet over Zoom for an hour and a half each day to complete their writing on Google Drive and receive feedback.

“We've been working with this model since the onset of the pandemic last spring,” said Kendall Graham, marketing and communications coordinator.

TThough it's been a transition, it seems to be working well.”

Graham added that they are hoping to have some in-person camps for families who feel comfortable, depending on campus ability to meet COVID-19 safety guidelines.

Kids who prefer an in-person option can take part in the YMCA of Austin’s day camps for a safe yet memorable experience. Safety protocols will include social distancing, mask requirement for campers two years and older, temperature checks and drop-off/pick-up outside of the facility. Visit https://www. austinymca.org/camp for more details.

All kids deserve a great summer and YMCA Day Camps are the perfect summer destination! YMCA camps offer children a safe, exciting and memorable day camp experience.

Kids have the opportunity to build self-confidence, independence and creativity, and parents have peace of mind knowing your kids are in a safe and enriching place. At YMCA day camps, kids make friends while learning the values of diversity and cooperation.

SUMMER DAY CAMP Registration Now Open l Ages 6 weeks to 14 years • 25+ Locations in Hays and Travis Counties • Weekly Sessions - Themes, Sports, Kinder, Preschool • Special sessions available at YMCA Camp Moody on Onion Creek • Swimming, Field Trips, Arts & Crafts, Enrichment • Affordable Rates - Financial Assistance Available • Infant/Preschool programs available

Enroll @ EACYMCA.org or (512) 236-YMCA (9622)

How to enjoy summer activities during COVID-19

BY THE AMERICAN LUNG ASSOCIATION Summer is finally here and most of us who have been quarantined for months are itching to get outside and enjoy summer activities. But the constant threat of contracting or spreading COVID-19 is still looming over us.

Though some places are beginning to reopen, the virus is not gone and there are still important safety guidelines that you should keep in mind.

As a general rule, the more time that you spend in close spaces with multiple people, the higher your risk for contracting COVID-19. So, before you venture out, consider a few things: • How many people will be there?

• Can you keep at least 6 feet between you and the other people in your party?

• Will everyone be wearing masks?

• How long will you be around everyone?

Low Risk Activities

Staying physically active is one of the best things you can do for your mental health. Visiting parks, trails and other open outdoor areas are great ways to stay active while still staying six feet apart.

See page 4 for Hays County’s top parks.

However, before going out, the CDC recommends choosing to visit less popular outdoor areas, where there is limited sharing of items. So, though playgrounds, beaches and public pools are reopening, these are still areas of greater risk. It may also be a good idea to check with the facility you are visiting to see if public restrooms are available and how often they are cleaned and disinfected.

Outdoor exercising is another safe way to blow off steam. Running is low risk as long as you are aware of your surroundings and keep off crowded paths. Sports like golf or tennis are some other great choices because there is no physical contact. The CDC still recommends avoiding sports like soccer, football or basketball where you may come in close contact with an infected, asymptomatic individual.

Picnics and backyard meet-ups are low risk due to being outdoors and able to space out so everyone can maintain social distancing and bring their own serving ware, food and beverages. Use visual reminders, like signs or chair arrangements to help remind you to keep a safe space from others.

Looking to take a trip? Any travel can be risky, but if you are going stir crazy at home, experts agree that camping as

one of the less risky things you can do.

Since you’re outdoors and isolated there is less risk of infection. Traveling to your personal vacation home with just your family or a selected group that has been quarantining can also be a good option if outdoor living is not your thing.

Medium Risk Activities

Going out to eat is something that many of us enjoy and are excited to be able to do again. As businesses reopen, many restaurants are taking precautions to be able to serve patrons with reduced risk of infection. In addition, many restaurants are switching to virtual menus and single-use condiments to prevent sharing surfaces that may spread the disease. Before going out to eat, ensure that the restaurant is spacing out seating, requiring servers to wear masks and offering easy access to hand-washing stations. Indoor dining has a higher risk than outdoor dining, so check to see if eating outdoors is an option at your favorite spot.

transportation also offers a social distancing challenge, so travel should be limited to essential only.

No matter what you choose to do, before going out it is a good idea to consult the CDC tracker. Here you can get the most up-to-date information about your area. Everyone should con-

tinue to practice everyday prevention.

In addition, it is always important to keep a cloth face covering, tissues, and hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol on hand at all times.

For more information about what is high and low risk, consult the CDC guidelines.

TEXAS LEHIGH CEMENT COMPANY LLC We make the stuff GROWTH is built on

(512) 295-6111 Texas Lehigh is the proud sponsor of the Hays County Echo Sudoku Puzzles.

High Risk Activities

There are still a bunch of activities that you should probably avoid. It is still a risky choice to go to the bar or out to a dance club. Instead, try a brewery with outdoor seating or host a socially-distanced dance party in your backyard. Any activity with a large crowd of people drinking can be dangerous as alcohol lowers inhibitions and people can forget about maintaining social distance. In fact, the more people that are in one space, the more likely someone is infected, so crowded places like malls should still be avoided as well. Public

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We love what we do and so will you.

Established in 1988

HUNTERS CHASE FARMS • Day and overnight camps • Boys and girls day camps • All girls overnight camp • Horseback riding • After school riding • Horse care • Swimming • Arts & crafts

(512) 785-0120 (text first) 4909 Lone Mountain Rd., Wimberley, TX 78676 www.hunterschasefarms.com

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Pinballz Kingdom in Buda has been offering classic and modern gaming, including Immersive Virtual Reality, for enthusiasts of all ages since 2014.

Our indoor scratch kitchen – Mikki’s Tavern – offers an extensive menu of food and libations, and Mikki’s Food truck serves a limited menu outside.

There are two additional bar areas – The Dragon Bar, serving the front pavilion and stage, and the Biergarten outdoor back patio.

Outdoor attractions include Bumper Cars, Laser Tag, Axe Throwing and an Escape Room Trailer. Our event site hosts events ranging from murder mystery parties, live music, drive-in movies, sports watch parties to carnivals.

We have private party rooms for corporate meetings bachelor parties, birthday parties and more. We also offer private arcade rentals.

Stay Local and Play Local!

Make Pinballz Kingdom Your Spring Break Destination!

• Classic and Modern Gaming • Food and Full Bars • Lots of Indoor and Outdoor Fun

15201 S IH 35 Frontage Rd • Buda, Texas • (512) 523-4080

www.AustinENT.com Comprehensive ENT Care for All Ages

Hearing Aid Services & Sales

Ear & Hearing

Hearing Aid Services

Hearing & Balance Evaluation Chronic Ear Infections Dizziness & Vertigo Tinnitus (Ringing in Ears) Ruptured Ear Drum

Thyroid & Parathyroid

Ultrasound & Needle Biopsy Thyroid & Parathyroid Surgery

Allergy

Comprehensive Allergy Testing Allergy Shots & Drops

KYLE

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Ear Tube Placement Tonsil & Adenoid Surgery Minimally Invasive Sinus Surgery

Nose & Sinus

Endoscopic Sinus Surgery In-office Balloon Sinuplasty

Spring 2021

Hearing Aid Sales, Programming Fittings, Cleanings & Repairs Earmolds & Custom Ear Plugs Hearing Protection

Diagnostic Hearing Tests

Comprehensive Hearing Exams Immittance Testing OAE, VNG and VRA Testing Brian Schwab, M.D.

Throat, Head & Neck

Sleep Apnea Hoarseness/Vocal Cord Dysfunction

TWO LOCATIONS IN YOUR AREA

1180 Seton Parkway Suite 420 Kyle, TX 78640 (512) 268-5282

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Children’s ENT

Mark Dammert, M.D.

Michael Yium, M.D.

LOCKHART

1005 W. San Antonio #A Lockhart, TX 78644 (512) 444-7944

Amber Bass, Au.D.

24TH ANNUAL

Brandy Perryman Shooting Camp Locations all over Austin, and a new location near you:

CENTRAL TEXAS FIELDHOUSE

AUSTIN’S PREMIER BASKETBALL CAMP FOR BOYS AND GIRLS AGES 7-16

JULY 26-29

2610 Main Street in Buda

For all other locations see our website:

www.bperrymanshootingcamp.com VISIT OUR CAMP SPONSORS

BRANDY PERRYMAN SHOOTING CAMP

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Where Love Lives On

Badgerdog Creative Writing Camp

A place where LOVE isn’t quarantined and knows no limits

Badgerdog

TEXAS LEHIGH Sudoku Solution

®

Learn about our hugs from home program where people can send a hug and heartfelt message to be shared with the family during the service.

We also offer virtual visitations and services so families and friends can celebrate and share their love.

Learn more about

512-268-8200

Spring break and summer programs led by professional writers inspire a love of reading and writing, strengthen language skills, and exercise creativity.

Hugs From Home

at HarrellFuneralHomes.com

See the full schedule on our website:

www.austinlibrary.org Puzzle, page 3

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.

Kids eat free on Wednesdays.

100 N Main Street, Buda, TX 78610 • (512) 312-4387 www.BrooklynsDownSouth.com

Virtual (Zoom), In Studio and Hybrid classes available

Little Dancer’s Workshop Ballet * Tap * Jazz * Pointe * Hip Hop Cheer * Acro * Gymnastics Lyrical * Mommy and Me * Contemporary Performance & Competition Teams

Register Online Today!

www.DanceUnlimitedBudaTX.com

1019 Main Street • Buda, Texas 78610 • 512-295-3667 page 8

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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

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Hays County Echo Service Directory AIR CONDITIONING A&E Air Conditioning & Heating, LLC Free furnace special, $500 off complete system or 15% off any repair by mentioning you saw us here. 512-312-9535 www.ae4cool.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

COMPUTER SERVICES 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

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. 512-2888488.

Who Does Your Lawn?

Call Jesse Reyna at 512-7882180 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

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LEGAL SERVICES John A. Hall & Associates, P.C. Attorneys and Counselors at Law. Family law, business law, criminal law. 130 Hall Professional Center, 512-268-6425

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

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

g H n i o k rs e c o R a d emy c A Swimming weekly, field trips and/or guest performers highlight our weekly camps!

Voted Best Private School and 2nd Best Child Care in 2020!

Voted Best Child Care in 2019!

June 1-4

Color Me Excited Whether designing the latest Project Runway styles or creating elaborate Lego structures, campers will use their imaginations to the fullest! We will explore a range of artistic styles and methods to unleash our hidden talents.

Come paint, sew and build with us!

HAVING VISION PROBLEMS? ITHAVING COULD BE CATARACTS VISION PROBLEMS? IT COULD BE CATARACTS

June 7-11

Blast from the Past We are throwing it way back this week! So, do the hustle on over and grab a Rubix Cube, a poodle skirt and don’t forget your neon friendship bracelets!

June 14-18

Let’s Get Wild

RRROOOARR! Lions, tigers and bears OH MY! Visit our 4-legged friends at the zoo and learn all about the animal kingdom this week. Find your inner cheetah and RUN!

SPECIALIZING IN: SPECIALIZING IN:

• • Cataract Surgery Cataract Surgery • • Premium IOL Implants Premium IOL Implants Lasik Surgery • • Lasik Surgery Glaucoma - • • Glaucoma - Medical and Surgical Medical and Surgical • Macular Degeneration • Macular Degeneration

June 21-25

Around the World

Pack your bags and grab your passports! Let us get ready for a week of traveling through different countries. Au Revoir for now but we will see you soon!

Schedule your visit today • 512.443.9715

Schedulewww.HowertonEye.com your visit today • 512.443.9715 Three locations to serve you www.HowertonEye.com

Kyle Office 5401 FM 1626, Ste 365 Kyle, TX 78640

Southwest Austin Office 5625 Eiger Rd, Ste 100 Austin, TX 78735

Kyle Office 5401 FM 1626, Ste 365 Kyle, TX 78640 Austin Office

Austin Office 2610 S IH-35 Austin, TX 78704

Three locations to serve you

Southwest Austin Office

June 28-July 2

Party in the USA “O, say can you see?” what a good time you will have celebrating our nation’s spirit. Pool splashing, lemonade stands, and summer fun awaits!

July 6-9

Summer Olympics

Swish and they score! Corral Kids WIN! Join us for all American sports week.

Love to bowl, play basketball, volleyball or soccer? Well, we have it all. So pick the game, grab the ball, and let’s hustle!

July 12-16

Corral Kids Got Talent It’s your time to shine! Bring out your microphone, dance skills, jokes, etc. Get ready to show camp what your talent is!

July 19-23

Holiday in July

The best way to spread holiday cheer is singing loud for all to hear. Let’s bring out our holiday Hats, trees and get ready for a weeklong of celebrating holidays in July.

July 26-30

Mad Scientist

We are getting messy this week! Experiment and Invent all while getting your hands dirty! We’ll put on our THINKING caps this week and expand our minds. Don’t miss out on all the ooey goey fun!

August 2-6

Lets go Camping

Pitch your tent and roast your S’mores. It’s in our nature to be outside!

After hiking and swimming, settle in at camp for some camp fire stories.

August 9-12

End of Summer Luau

You won’t want to miss our end of summer celebration! We are saying goodbye to another summer but Aloha to another school year. Join us for Dole whips, games, and music at our end of summer luau.

6022 McNaughton, Kyle, TX (in Plum Creek) www.RockingHorseAcademy.com • (512) 405-3700

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For the expected, unexpected, and everything in between We’re here to help you prepare by: Keeping your child protected with vaccines Completing camp physical paperwork Discussing learning & behavioral questions Giving you a full picture of your child’s health

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To learn more visit:

ARCpediatrics.com