August 2015 Hays County Echo

IN THIS ISSUE: Summer reading list of local authors • Staycationing in Hays County

HAYS COUNTY

ECHO AUGUST 2015

IN THIS ISSUE: Summer reading list of local authors • Staycationing in Hays County

A publication of the News-Dispatch and the Hays Free Press

photo courtesy of Wimberley Zipline Adventures

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE:

Fajita Fiesta

Buda celebrates Hispanic heritage with good food and good music

page 1

HAYS COUNTY

ECHO

is published monthly by Barton Publications, Inc 113 W. Center St., Kyle, TX Contents © 2015.

Publisher Cyndy Slovak-Barton Editor Kim Hilsenbeck Graphics Director David White Graphics Assistant Christine Thorpe Contributing Writers Chris Reid Kim Hilsenbeck Distribution Suzanne Hallam Marketing Tracy Mack Jim Darby Miles Hanson Suzanne Hallam Paula Pulley Office Manager Connie Brewer For advertising information, please contact our sales department at 512-268-7862.

EDITOR’S NOTE

W

ell, you made it through the first two months of summer in Central Texas. Just a few more weeks (OK, months) to go! One thing I look forward to each year is setting aside some of my vacation time at the beach to enjoy a good book. This month, we compiled a list of summer reads by current or former Hays County authors. Check out the list starting on page 4 – it includes something for every reader. Maybe you’re looking for some close-to-home activities rather than taking a big vacation. How about a Hays County staycation? What can you do in Hays County, you ask? More than you might think! Tube down the San Marcos

Inside

River, fly over Wimberley on a zipline, explore parks, camp, hike or catch a movie on those hot summer days. And since it’s all close to home, no need for a hotel or bed-and-breakfast. (Although Hays County has several great options for those, too.)

Take a look at our staycation ideas starting on page 10.

August is Hispanic Heritage Month and what better way to celebrate than attending the annual Fajita Fiesta in Buda? See the full story on page 8.

Enjoy the rest of August and as always, thanks for reading!

Kim Hilsenbeck Editor

Summer Reading List.........................................................4-7 A list of books by local authors

Fajita Fiesta........................................................................8-9 Fajita Fiesta hopes to bring fun, education to Budaites, visitors

Looking for Adventure?..................................................10-12 We have a checklist of fun things to do without traveling too far from home

Carter Lewis takes advantage of one of our staycation ideas – catching a little air at the Jackson Tyler Norris Memorial Skate Park (a.k.a. the Buda Skate Park). About the cover: If you want to catch even more air, we suggest a ziplining experience at Wimberley Zipline Adventures. Read more suggestions on pages 10-12.

Central Texas Events........................................................... 13 Soul Funk Band performing at last year’s Fajita Fiesta in Buda. Read about this year’s event on page 8.

page 2 u august | 2015

Top picks for events and festivals

Service Directory............................................................14-15 Tips for watering and harvesting your bounty

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A summer reading list featuring Hays County authors A trip to the beach or other locale is a great time to catch up on reading. Having a good summer book list is a travel essential. During a long drive, flight or while on the sand or by the pool, books are a summer staple – and it doesn’t matter if they are in print or on an e-reader. While there are thousands of books to choose for your summer reading, we’ve pulled together a list of books from Hays County authors (for adults and children). These offerings include satire, humor, fantasy and some historical books, too. Happy reading!

FROM SATIRE TO SELF HELP

Hell’s Supper

Genre: Satire/comedy with a fantasy angle (part of the Circles In Hell series) Author: Mark Cain of Dripping Springs About the book: Hell is ... well, Hell, and Steve Minion is the guy who has to keep it all going with every devil and demon – and, as it turns out, not a few of its inmates – stacked against him. His assistant, Orson Welles (yes, that Orson Welles) could no doubt manage such an

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enormous production far better than Steve, but he would thereby enjoy himself, which would break one of the fundamental rules of Hell – that nobody gets to enjoy themselves. Should you even feel a glimmer of hope, you know that within minutes all Hell will literally be breaking out all around you.

Also read Cain’s newest book, “A Cold Day in Hell.”

Released July 3, this is the sequel to “Hell’s Supper,” part of the Circles In Hell series. Steve and Orson are back in this cracked CAIN sequel to “Hell’s Supper,” book two in the new satire and humor series, Circles In Hell. This time, the guys must fix Hell’s heating and air conditioning (HVAC) system, which has failed.

Hell is getting progressively colder, and things are a lot more serious than devils and demons needing to put on some sweaters. If you’ve ever used the expression, “It will be a cold day in Hell before ...” then you know that there are metaphysical ramifications involved. The HVAC system must be fixed before all Hell freezes over, which is an even worse state than just a bit of frigid weather.

Still, anything can happen on

“A Cold Day In Hell” … even a paranormal comedy romance that becomes a whacky love triangle.

Descriptions courtesy of GoodReads About the author: Mark Cain spent 30 years as the chief information officer at a community college in Ohio, though he started his career as a librarian. He took an early retirement at age 55 and moved back to Texas to become a consultant and to get back to writing. He’s been writing books for 35 years; he wrote his first one in 1980 though it wasn’t published until 2000. His idea of Hell is the frustrations of modern life, expanded to Hellish proportions.

“For me, Hell is having to do home improvement projects,” he said.

And that’s the premise of his book series, “Circles in Hell.” The second book in the series is available only for Kindle, not in print – despite the author’s personal love of paper books. But as a former IT guy, he said, “I’m betting on the e-book as opposed to the paperback.”

Cain describes this book series as, “Fun, and a little bit to make you think. They are short books with snappy dialogue.” He said they’re perfect on vacation. And they’re fun to write. “Life’s too depressing not to have some fun,” he said. In addition to writing, Cain plays tuba in a local brass quintet and sousaphone in a few traditional jazz (Dixieland) bands.

More likely to quote Star Wars than the Bible and Trans-rational Spirituality Genre: Nonfiction, self help Author: Gudjon Bergmann Is there any way to be spiritual without denying rationality?

About the book: Both books critique current spiritual options, look at the influences of postmodernism and propose a trans-rational approach to spirituality. What is the difference? BERGMANN “More Likely to Quote Star Wars than the Bible,” was specifically written for Generation X. As such, it is written with attitude and is riddled with pop culture quotes that GenXers will appreciate.

“Trans-Rational Spirituality” is the same book without the GenX attitude and Star Wars quotes.

Description courtesy of www.authorbergmann.com/

About the author: A selfdescribed GenX poster child and rational spiritual seeker, Gudjon Bergmann is a meditation/yoga teacher and author of more than twenty books, including “Baby Steps to Meditation,” “Yes! You Can Manage Stress,” “Empowerment Basics,” “Living in the Spirit of Yoga, The Author’s Blueprint” and his recent memoir titled “You Can’t Have the Green Card.” He is well educated in Eastern, Western, and Integral philosophy, motivational techniques and meditation methods. Born and raised in Iceland, Gudjon moved to the USA in 2010 and is now a U.S. citizen. He and his wife and two children live in Kyle.

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A nest is noisy Genre: Children’s books Author: Diana Hutts Aston, formerly of Hays County

About the author: Dianna Hutts Aston is a former resident of Mountain City, where she lived for 19 years, and was editor of the Hays Free Press 1987-1988. From there, she became activity director at Marbridge for five years, with the local legendary Ralph Pfluger as her boss. Her career as a children’s book author began in 1996 when her children were attending Hays CISD schools.

After leaving Mountain City in 2006, she lived in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico for eight years

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About the book: From the award-winning creators of “An Egg Is Quiet,” “A Seed Is Sleepy,” “A Butterfly Is Patient,” and “A Rock Is Lively” comes this gorgeous and informative look at the fascinating world of nests.

From tiny bee hummingbird nests to orangutan nests high in the rainforest canopy, an incredible ASTON variety of nests are showcased here in all their splendor. Poetic in voice and elegant in design, this carefully researched book introduces children to a captivating array of nest facts and will spark the imaginations of children whether in a classroom reading circle or on a parent’s lap.

Description courtesy of www.amazon.com

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Her book, “The Moon Over Star” was awarded a Coretta Scott King Honor and was chosen by President Barack Obama and NASA astronauts to read to schoolchildren. (video available on YouTube). Former second grade teacher Donna Helm, of Mountain City, was an inspiration for parts of this book. Besides writing books, Hutts Aston also visits elementary schools and speaks to thousands of children each year, inspiring children to discover nature and to dream big.

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MORE SUMMER READING NEXT PAGE

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page 5

YOUNG ADULT

The Odd Squad, King Karl

Genre: Pre-teen Author: Mike Fry of Buda About the book: Nick, Molly, and Karl have nowhere to turn but to each other in the latest Odd Squad adventure, and they’ll need every ounce of wit, resourcefulness, and help they can get in order to rise above their biggest challenge yet. “King FRY Karl” is the third book in the Odd Squad series.

Description courtesy of www.amazon.com About the author: Fry is a cartoonist and writer who has published nine books, including several in the pre-teen genre. He is also the creator of the cartoon “Over the Hedge,” which was made into a feature length movie. Fry is also credited with cowriting the screenplay “New Soul,” which was recently produced as a live-action/ animated short film. In a synopsis about the film on Fry’s website, came this description: “What if, before you were born, you could pick your fate? Would you?

Would you really?” Fry lives with his wife in Buda.

page 6 u august | 2015

ADULT FICTION

Wildfire

Genre: Fiction Author name: K. Vann O’Brien About the book: Savanna arrives in Jessop, TX, with memories of her mother throbbing in her chest and a grumpy rescue dog trailing behind. The goal is to renovate and sell her O’BRIEN mother’s childhood home, and to get herself back together after her mother’s death. But the people in this small dusty town look at her – the girl with her mother’s eyes – and see someone else.

They see someone they loved, or hated, and who left them long ago. When a wildfire breaks out across neighboring farmland, the boy next door calls on Savanna to help the victims driven from their homes.

Dev is an artist with kind eyes and a fierce painting of her mother on his bedroom wall. But Savanna is drawn to Blake, a reclusive boy with a scar running down his face like a teardrop, who looks at Savanna as if she put it there. The three friends rally to bring relief to the evacuees. But when they face the fire of prejudice, they must rely on each other to get through the blaze unscathed.

About the author: K. Vann O’Brien lives in Buda, TX, with her husband and two wild, rowdy boys. She clings to the female characters in her books for balance.

Kings of Colorado Genre: Suspense Fiction Author: David E. Hilton

About the book: William Sheppard had never ventured beyond his Chicago neighborhood until, at thirteen, he is sent away to the Swope Ranch Boys Reformatory, thousands of miles from home, for stabbing his abusive father in the chest with a pocketknife.

HILTON Buried deep in the Colorado mountains, Swope is shrouded in legend, and defined by one prevailing rumor: that boys who go in, never come out the same.

Description courtesy of www.davidehilton.com About the author: Born in 1974, David E. Hilton’s family moved to West Texas in an attempt to rid his chronic asthma. He considers growing up in that region to be a constant inspiration for many of his stories. In Alpine, he was a boy scout, backpacked throughout Big Bend National Park, and has even seen a Marfa Ghost

Roy’s Run Genre: Suspense Author: Gary White

About the book: Financial forensic evidence uncovered by the nascent National Crime Agency (NCA) of UK suggest that Russian Organized Crime elements are joining forces with Mexican drug cartels.

UK’s Prime Minister and the President of the United States (POTUS) agree to develop an international task force to further investigate these suspicions. Ex-university track star and undercover DEA agent Roy Silva, returning to duty after a lifethreatening gunshot wound, is personally selected by WHITE POTUS to join forces with NCA agent Samantha (Sami) Baxter-Lindsey to lead this task force.

Investigating, Roy and Sami soon develop a theory that the goal of the Russian/Mexican collusion is to deliver a terrorist attack of 90 Sarin bombs over the U.S. Complicating their investigation are the dismissive attitudes they receive as they try to alert their leadership that an attack is imminent.

Nursing an intimate grudge against Roy and a desire to punish

Light at close range. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Howard Payne University in 1998, and began writing short stories soon thereafter, some of which can be found on various online webzines and pod cast sites, such as “The Harrow,” and “Pseudopod.” He was also a contributor to the short horror story collection, “Nights of Blood 2.” David lives outside Austin, and has two sons, Drew and Cameron, and is the Austin AmericanStatesman bestselling author of “Kings of Colorado.”

the United States, the leader of a Mexican cartel delivers a preeminent strike against Roy and the task force, sending him into a tailspin of uncertainty about who can be trusted and what is real and imaginary.

Roy’s self-doubts are amplified when he discovers that the CIA, likely under POTUS’s orders, is following him and his team.

Amid this cesspool of lies, deception and terror, with Sami’s help, he tries to stop the terrorist attack. With the clock rapidly ticking away, Roy finds himself in the race of his life.

About the author: Gary White is a retired U.S. Air Force officer. “Roy’s Run” is his first novel and it was published earlier this year.

He is working on a sequel. White won the Friends of the Buda Library short story contest in 2014 and 2015. During his time in the USAF and his civilian career he supported the USAF Space Program and has worked as a meteorologist, Mission Director and Program Manager.

White lives in Mountain City with his wife, Verlenne. When he is not writing, White is a Flight Instructor at Texas State Aviation in San Marcos.

FOR OUR HISTORY BUFFS Want to learn more about Hays County history? Below are a few book options that will help with that goal, courtesy of the Hays County Historical Commission.

Whether you are looking to repair your device or are in search of a new one, stop in and see the professionals at Austin Appliance for all your residential and commercial kitchen appliance needs.

Genre: Historical Author: Mary Giberson and (the late) Barbara Younts

The Complete History of Dripping Springs, Texas, and the P.A. Smith Survey Genre: Historical Author: Carl Waits

About the book: Author Carl Waits writes in the preface of his 2003 Nortex Press work that he hopes “the natives, as well as newcomers get as much enjoyment out of finding out about the history of Dripping Springs and the P.A. Smith Survey (as best I can tell) as I did in gathering it.”

It is safe to say that “the natives” and “the newcomers” are, in fact, in for an enjoyable ride through the history of this area of Hays County when reading this fascinating book. The retired 30-year veteran of coaching in Dripping Springs ISD began his collection of local history in 1990 with the notion he

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People and Places in and Around Historic Buda

About the Book: Contains more than a hundred vignettes on local history on characters and places of this northern Hays County community. The research pieces were originally written for the Hays [County] Free Press and subsequently collected under one cover in 2003 for this Buda Economic Council-funded project. The stories within run from tales of the Allen Cemetery to the IG&N Railroad and the early Onion Creek Post Office.

Published by the Hays Free Press,

ustin

21 years of combined experience

the book stands as the single most important collection of local history on Buda and its immediate vicinity – a must for researchers and those interested in this area’s fascinating history.

could complete a video history of his adopted town in a few months.

Fortunately for those who study the town and area, that compact little project grew into something much more time-consuming – and substantial. The end result is a major accomplishment of research, interviewing, and the collection of local lore too soon – and in many cases, already – forgotten.

The history is divided into three major parts, the first titled “The Beginnings” and capably dealing with genealogy, the history of Dripping Springs, and a full range of the town’s buildings, businesses, and houses. Part 2 is an exhaustive review of land ownership and maps.

Part 3 takes on the specifics of the good people, churches, and schools of Dripping Springs. The Waits work is essential, first-stop reading for anyone researching – or with a simple love and interest in – its Hill Country subject matter.

All historical book descriptions courtesy of the Hays County Historical Commission.

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Fajita Fiesta

by Cyndy

A heritage celebration with good food and good music

Slovak-Barton

T

FAJITA FIESTA

BY THE NUMBERS:

5,000

How many years salsa dates back – to the time of Aztec, Mayan and Inca civilization

21

Number of fajita teams competed in 2014

15

Number of food vendors with carnival, Tex-mex and other fares

1,000

Dollar amount of prize for best fajitas

9

Number of competitions this year – fajitas, carne guisada, salsa, pan de campo, charro beans, margaritas, showmanship, jalapeno eating contest, grito del mariachi.

18

The length of the average fajita in inches – a strip of meat from the carcass beneath the heart and lungs

page 8 u august | 2015

o some, the Buda Chamber’s Fajita Fiesta might just be a day of food and fun.

The aroma of flank steaks wafting through the air and beans cooking to perfection makes for a wonderful fiesta.

Pan de campo being cooked in a Dutch oven over an open fire adds a bit of authenticity.

But to Buda Chamber Managing Director J.R. Gonzales, the Fajita Fiesta, scheduled for downtown Buda Sept. 25-26, is also about bringing a bit of education to visitors and residents alike.

The event happens to coincide with Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 to October 15.

Gonzales said he thinks the Chamber event can not only help local businesses, but also teach a bit about the Hispanic heritage.

“It’s not all about trying to make a profit,” he said.

“It’s about giving back to the community and providing opportunities for member businesses and organizations. It’s about providing area resident with family friendly entertainment, as they experience Texas cultures and history. It’s about welcoming visitors with our local hospitality and showing them everything the Buda area has to offer.”

And what could be more fun than enjoying a free event that includes music and dancing to live music by Glen Collins and the Alibis, beginning at 7 p.m.

Friday night. Then at 8 p.m., The Showman Band gets the place rocking with a sock hop.

The margarita contest will be held Friday night as well, with mixologists and VIP judges making the choices.

One big event that is slated for Saturday is the re-enactment of the Battle of Medina,

Last year’s bands, Soul Funk Band (far left) and Raulito Navaira, revved up the crowds every night. This year, the fun starts Friday evening with the free live music starting at 6 p.m. The grounds open at 5 p.m. for a kick-off party. There also will be free live music on Saturday beginning at 8 p.m.

Left, “Father of the Fajita” Sonny Falcon will be one of the judges at this year’s Fajita Fiesta. (photos courtesy of the Buda Chamber of Commerce)

the biggest and bloodiest battle ever fought on Texas soil.

With canons and muskets, the re-enactment is part of the educational, yet entertaining presentation that Gonzales wants the fiesta to become.

Dan Arellano, president of the Battle of Medina Historical Society, said his group is looking for extras. Anyone wishing to participate needs to wear proper attire worn during the period, whether it be Native American, 1800 Tejano, early Texas pioneer or Spanish/Mexican soldiers, he said.

The fiesta continues on Sat-

urday, with fajita, pan de campo and charro bean cook-offs.

Top prizes of $1,000, $750, $500, $250 and $100, along with trophies, will be given out on Saturday for fajitas.

Trophies and cash awards will be given out to the top three carne guisada winners.

Prize money and trophies for 1st place, and medals for 2nd and 3rd pace will be awarded in the Salsa, Pan de Campo and Charro Bean competitions.

The fiesta continues until 10 p.m. Saturday night, with live music by Shelly Lares.

The star of the show, of course, will be Sonny Falcon, who is believed to have operated the first commercial fajita taco stand. Falcon was an Austin meat market manager at Guajardo’s Cash Grocery in the 1960s. He opened his stand at the 1969 Dies y Seis Jamaica in Kyle, cooking his fajitas on an open flame and serving up the tacos to the hungry crowd.

From there, he became known as the Fajita King.

Though Falcon will not compete in the event, he will serve as one of the judges.

The real story of the fajita goes back to the 1930s. When cattle were butchered during cattle roundups to feed the hands, the trimmings, hide, head and entrails were given to the Mexican vaqueros, cowboys, as part of their pay.

It’s all part of the education process, according to Gonzales. And it’s part of making the event fun.

The schedule for the event is still in the works and spots are still available for cooks and others wanting to participate in the fiesta.

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Looking for adventure?

Here are a few ideas close to home August is here, it’s hot, the kids don’t go back to school for a few more weeks and you need a vacation. But what if you’re short on time or funds? Take a staycation instead!

ACTION/ADVENTURE: Get your heart pumping with these thrill-seeking adventures:

Wimberley Zipline Adventures

Fly over creeks and canyons on 10 zip line crossings high above the Wimberley Valley. The fun includes an educational walking tour about the local ecosystem, history and more. The zipline will last approximately 1-1/2 to 2 hours. Each line ranges from 150 feet to about 900 feet.Reservations are required and there are some weight minimums and maximums.

WIMBERLEY ZIPLINE ADVENTURES photo courtesy of Wimberley Zipline Adventures

Sky Dive San Marcos

Go-kart racing at Central Texas Speedway

Check out Skydive San Marcos for a real free fall. The 80-acre facility is located 13 miles south of San Marcos on Hwy 80. They host special occasions, birthdays or just-want-to-have-fun time. Options range from tandem jumps for beginners to solo jumps for those who are more experienced.

Located in Kyle, CTS offers high-powered Go-Kart racing in a safe environment.

There is a mandatory safety session prior to racing.

Tubing the San Marcos River

Buda Skate Park

The Jackson Norris Tyler Memorial Skate Park is about an acre-size park located at 408 S. Loop 4 designed for skateboarders to have an extreme yet safe skateboarding experience.

BUDA SKATE PARK photo by Moses Leos III

The San Marcos Lions Club runs a tube rental facility in San Marcos. The float lasts about an hour and ends at Rio Vista Park. Open 10 a.m.-7 p.m. with the last shuttle running at 6:30 p.m.

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With over 40 years of experience caring for seniors in the Austin and Buda areas, our staff at Nellie’s Heart Caregiving can perform necessary day-to-day tasks. We help your loved one live more independently in the comfort of his or her own home.

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We help your loved one stay comfortable in familiar surroundings by providing:

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CAMPING/PARKS

MEADOWS CENTER GLASS BOTTOM BOAT TOUR

Schulle Canyon Natural Area, located at 1420 Alamo St. Schulle Canyon, is 21 acres.

Pedernales Falls State Park

This park is 13 miles from Dripping Springs and just slightly outside Hays County. There is an entrance fee for those who do not have an annual state park pass.

Located at 2585 Park Road 6026 in Johnson City.

Spring Lake Natural Area, located at 109 Panorama Dr., is 251 acres.

San Marcos Wildlife Habitat, located at 700 Cheatham St., is a 10-acre park.

Purgatory Creek Natural Area

photo courtesy of the Meadows Center

NATURE: Meadows Center Glass Bottom Boat Tour

Purgatory in San Marcos offers a chance to reconnect with nature on a scenic trail through protected parkland. This 463-acre park has two entrances – at the southeast corner of the intersection of Wonder World Dr. and Hunter Rd and at the end of Craddock St. past RR12. Purgatory provides hike/bike trails, bike rack, benches, information kiosk, a pet mitt dispenser, and trash cans.

PURGATORY CREEK NATURAL AREA

Wonder World Park

Glide across Spring Lake and enjoy a view of the San Marcos River in a glass-bottom boat. These rides have captivated guests since 1945.

Visitors can see some of the 1,000 springs that form the headwaters of the river as well as fish, turtles and other inhabitants. Walk the grounds of the Meadows Center for Water and the Environmental at Texas State University.

Have you ever seen an earthquake from the inside?

Head to Wonder World Park in San Marcos for a guided tour of the nation’s only true example of an earthquake formed cave. The tour takes visitors deep inside the Balcones Faultline Cave. Led by trained guides, the tour reveals stories of past geological eras of the Earth’s history. Located at 1000 Prospect Street in San Marcos.

OTHER SAN MARCOS NATURAL AREAS INCLUDE: Blanco Shoals Natural Area, located at 1201 E. River Ridge Pkwy, is roughly 81 acres.

Ring Tail Ridge Natural Area, located at 1814 Old Ranch Road 12, is a natural area on 40-plus acres.

photo by David White

MORE ADVENTURE IDEAS, 12

CORRIDOR PRIMARY CARE PEDIATRICS AND INTERNAL MEDICINE Satellite location in Kyle (Pediatrics only) 4221 Benner Road, Suite 205

Pediatrics

601B Leah Avenue, San Marcos, TX Sue Ann Harrison, M.D., F.A.A.P. Michael Grady, M.D., F.A.A.P. Jeanne Flinn, D.O., F.A.A.P. Ivri Messinger, D.O., F.A.A.P. Jill Humphrey, M.D., Ph.D., F.A.A.P. Michelle Miller, M.D., F.A.A.P. Rhonda W. Deschner, M.D., F.A.A.P. Angela Black, M.D., F.A.A.P. Noelle Williams, D.O. Calyn Hughes, R.N., M.S.N., C.P.N.P. Angela Wampler, R.N., M.S.N., C.P.N.P.

512-392-1700

www.CorridorPD.com

Internal Medicine

601A Leah Avenue, San Marcos, TX Greg Moore, M.D., F.A.C.P. Rebecca Shively, R.N., F.N.P.-B.C. Larry Beville, R.N., N.P.-C.

512-396-1000

www.CorridorIM.com

Providing a continuum of quality health services in San Marcos and Central Texas for over 20 years page 11

DRIPPING SPRINGS FARMERS MARKET photo by Moses Leos III

FARMER’S MARKETS:

STILL LOVING WHAT WE DO after 33 years

in the community!

Buda Saturdays: from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on the lot south of City Hall on Main street. Tuesdays: 4 to 7 p.m. on the corner of Sequoyah and Main street

Dripping Springs Wednesdays: 3-7 p.m. at 140 Mercer Street

Kyle Held seasonally at 409 W. Center Street.

San Marcos Saturdays: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on San Antonio street by the courthouse Tuesdays: 3 to 7 p.m. at 312 E. Hopkins street

Wimberley JACOB’S WELL photo by Amy Rae Hilton

First Saturday of the month from March to December: 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Lions field, 601 FM 2325 Wednesdays: 3 to 6 p.m. on the corner of RR12 and River Road

SWIMMING IDEAS:

INDOOR FUN

Blue Hole

Texas Cinema Starplex 12

Blue Hole Regional Park in Wimberley is open year round but the clear blue swimming hole is open Memorial Day through Labor Day from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily. Located off Old Kyle Road near junction of FM 3237.

Jacob’s Well Natural Area

This area consists of 81.5 acres surrounding the Jacob’s Well artesian spring. This ecological resource is the most significant and largest continually flowing karstic spring in the Texas Hill Country.

Kyle Pool

Open daily through Labor Day. This local pool offers two slides and a kiddie area. Located within Gregg-Clarke Park on Center Street in Kyle.

page 12 u august | 2015

Enjoy 12 screens of the latest feature attractions.

1250 Wonder World Dr.

compassionate,

state•of•the•art dental care for the whole family...from infants to seniors.  Infant Well-Check Exams  Children’s Dentistry and Learning Lab  Cosmetic Dentistry  Preventive & Restorative Dentistry  Invisalign  Dental Implants  Custom Dentures

DONALD TAYLOR • DDS ASHLEY STRICKLAND • DDS SAGE THAMES • DDS

EVO

Multiple movie theatres, bowling and an arcade are the featured attractions at this Kyle entertainment venue. Located on the feeder road of IH-35 south.

Pinballz Kingdom

Looking for air-conditioned fun this summer? Try Pinballz Kingdom – an arcade, restaurant, bar and concert venue all in one.

Corral Theater

The Corral Theater in Wimberley, while technically outside, is a great place to spend the night after the sun goes down. The theater is an open-aired facility with first run films.

512.295.5555 220 Main Street • Buda, TX 78610 budadental.com

Central Texas Festivals & Events August 1 Concerts for a Cause

Down South Railhouse in Kyle will host this season’s Concerts for a Cause. August’s concert will feature music by Keith Kelso and benefit Cheatham Street Music Foundation. Concerts for a Cause is a way to raise awareness of and raise money for some of the local to Hays County charities that work to make this “simply charming” county an even better place to live.

KYLE MARKET DAYS August 14-16 9th Annual Hill Country Rally For Kids

This car, bike, and BBQ event will be held at Camp Ben McCulloch in Driftwood to show the kids they are loved and accepted by their community.

Our goal is to impact the lives of kids that need assistance. Visit www.hcrally.com for information.

August 1 Wimberley Market Days

Stroll along a shaded path to more than 475 booths filled with a wide variety of arts, crafts, antiques, gift items, clothing and more. Also enjoy barbecue and treats with live music under the pavilion. Lions Field, 601 F.M. 2325. www.shopmarketdays. com 512-847-2201

FIRST THURSDAY ON MERCER

photo by Sean Claes

August 8 Kyle Market Days

This month Kyle Market Days will have a “Back to School” theme and partnering with Home Depot Kyle. Local vendors, arts & crafts, farm to market items, live music and more! Takes place from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at Historic City Square Park.

August 8 Second Saturday gallery trail photo by Moses Leos III

August 6 First Thursday - Downtown Buda, Dripping Springs (Mercer Street)

From 5-9 p.m. businesses stay open for shopping, dining, music and fun. Support your local businesses and enjoy an evening out. First Thursday focuses on providing downtown visitors the chance to stroll through the unique local shops, while enjoying food from downtown restaurants.

August 20 Come and Taste It

Meet Texas’ best winemakers the third Thursday of each month. Enjoy complimentary wine and beer tastings, and learn directly from the craftsman.

Live music and food samples complement the wines on Gruene Historic District’s Grapevine patio. Also live entertainment nightly at Texas’ Oldest Dancehall. 830-6060093. www.GrapevineinGruene. com.

August 22-23 Texas Senior Pro Rodeo

At Dripping Springs Ranch Park in Dripping Springs. Saturday rodeo begins at 9 a.m., Sunday church at 8:30 a.m. and Sunday rodeo at 9 a.m. All are welcome.

August 15 Dick’s Classic Garage Car Show Bring your classic car to compete for prizes or just bring your friends and family to enjoy a good time. Live music and food keep the party going.

Dick’s Classic Car Garage, 120 Stagecoach Trail, San Marcos. www. dicksclassicgarage.com 512-878-2406

More than a dozen galleries offer wine, snacks and art displays from 4-7 p.m. at this monthly gallery trail. See local artwork and spend the day in beautiful Wimberley.

August 14 Movies at Lake Kyle

Join Kyle PARD at the summer movie series. August’s movie will be “ET.” Movies start 30 minutes after sunset. For more information, visit the city of Kyle website.

August 15-16 Old Gruene Market Days

Nearly 100 vendors offer uniquely crafted items and packaged Texas foods. Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Gruene Historic District, 1724 Hunter Road. www. gruenemarketdays. com 830-832-1721

Mark your calendar

Have your festival or event promoted in the Hays County Echo as well as the Hays Free Press and News-Dispatch newspapers.

Email christine@haysfreepress.com

MOVIES AT LAKE KYLE

photo by Moses Leos III

page 13

Hays County Echo Service Directory AIR CONDITIONING A&E Air Conditioning & Heating $500 off complete system Free furnace special. Call for details.

512-312-9535 www.ae4cool.com

AIM A/C and Heating Service

Kyle Automotive Serving Kyle and Hays County for nearly 20 years! Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

107 N. Main Street, Kyle, TX 78640 512-268-1173 www.KyleAutomotive.com

BARNS

Free estimates for replacements.

Service, sales, installs, duct cleaning.

Locally owned and operated.

Licensed, bonded, insured and registered 512-312-9080 www.AIM4AC.com

Timber-N-Steel Custom Pole Barns

APC Service, LLC

CLEANING SERVICES

Electrical, A/C, heating Commercial and residential.

Free service call with repair.

512-295-4023 www.APCServicePros.com tricoconst@austin.rr.com

Barton Creek A/C Company LLC Full service air conditioning company serving Kyle and surrounding areas. bartoncreekac.com 512-214-1300

NEMEC Heating and Air Proudly serving Central Texas Residential, commercial and after hours available. chris@nemecheatingandair.com 512-312-9081 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

page 14 u august | 2015

Custom pole barns, horse barns, sheds, machinery storage, garages RV & Boat Storage, carports, patio covers, decks. High quality, low cost.

512-968-7327

Happy Home Exceptional Cleaning

Serving Kyle, Buda, San Marcos, Manchaca, South Austin, Lockhart and more. www.HappyHomeExceptional Cleaning.com, 512-468-4219

COMPUTER SERVICE A Computer Werks Business, residential or commercial Adware, spyware, malware, installations. Service, software, hardware and custom builds.

512-694-1746 www.acomputerwerks.com

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

CONCRETE WORK XEVEX Concrete Services Free estimates! Bonded & insured.

Foundations, driveways, patios, repairs, staining, removal, Bobcat services.

512-312-4214 www.xevexllc.com

ELECTRICAL SERVICE Keen Electrical Service Commercial, industrial, residential.

Licensed/insured, TECL #26308. J..

Craig Keen, owner/master electrician. keenzone7@att.net.

512-653-1125

GLASS SERVICE

PET SITTING

Berry Glass Company

Carver’s Critter Sitter

Commercial and Residential Contract glazing, storefronts, insulated glass, furniture tops, tempered glass and mirrors. Framed & frameless tub & shower enclosure.

5360 Industrial Way Dr., Buda, TX 78610 512-312-2767

HOME REPAIR The Handyman Can No job too small - all your home improvement needs. Painting, pressure washing, fencing, electrical, flooring, landscaping, roofing, decks, tile and more.

Call Jon at 512-496-1243.

Steel Horse Constructors Serving Hays County and surrounding areas. Painting, remodels, carpentry, trim work, special design and more.

Free estimate. References available.

Call Jim ‘Blu’ Cooke at 512-7812911 or steelhorseconstructors@ gmail.com.

In-home pet sitting for small and large critters. Experience with many, will work with any. Insured, will also do house sitting. Call Suzanne at 512773-5592, www.ccsittertx.com

A Purrfect Fit House and Pet Sitting Pets cared for, plants watered and sang to, mail and packages brought in, lights rotated so house appears occupied. Overnight or drop-in visits (includes walks). Call Mary at 512420-3243, pups_cats@hotmail.com

Petunia’s Pets House Sitting Dripping Springs & surrounding areas. Veterinary technician trained.

Multi-species. Honest, dependable & bilingual. Call or text 512-68-4058.

PLUMBING Prince Plumbing Company

LEGAL SERVICES

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

512-312-0710

John A. Hall

POOL SERVICE

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

G&S Pool and Spa Service Serving South Austin, Dripping Springs, Driftwood, Kyle and Buda since 1994.

512-326-4695 www.gspoolspa.com

PAINTING

REAL ESTATE

Alex’s Painting

Christy DeWolfe – Keller Williams Real Estate

Residential & commercial painting, texturing, sheet rock repair, wallpaper removal, popcorn texture removal, wood replacement, power washing.

Clean and neat professionals, fully insured, on time & dependable. Family owned & operated. Satisfaction guaranteed, excellent references.

512-470-3953

Chuck’s Painting and Remodeling Interior/exterior painting and repairs.

References and reasonable rates.

512-944-2910

Committed to providing world class service while helping you achieve your real estate goals.

ChristyDeWolfe.com, 512-284-4126

REMODELING Tri-County Construction Let us make your dreams a reality!

Specializing in custom remodeling and insurance repairs since 1984.

Fully insured. 512-282-6224

MORE REMODELING

SEPTIC SERVICES

Wild West Remodeling

All American Wastewater Solutions, LLC

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

See it all online 24/7

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.

Local News • High School Sports Photos • Community Events

@haysfreepress

Sellman Enterprises, Inc.

Area Roofing Company Serving Hays County Residential & Commercial Free estimates. Insurance claims welcome.

Ron Johnson, owner 512-312-5050

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

512-312-0002 www.SellmanSepticServices.com

TREE SERVICES

Krueger Roofing Company Serving Central Texas for over 35 years. References available upon request. 512-658-7177

Gil’s Tree Service Residential and commercial.

Professional tree pruning, cabling, cavity filling, landscaping, ball moss removal, construction, repair.

Member of National Arbonist Association, International Society of Arboriculture. Call for a free estimate. 512-221-6716

Hearing Centers of Austin Ear, Nose & Throat Clinic, LLC

Hearing Aid & Audiological Services • Programming • Fittings • Cleaning & Repairs • Tubing Changes • Earmolds • Custom Ear Plugs • Hearing Protection • Assistive Listening Devices • Recasing • ‘Dry and Store’ Kits • Immittance Testing • Comprehensive Hearing Evaluations

Your communities.

Your newspapers.

• Visual Reinforcement Audiometry (VRA) • Otoacoustic Emission Testing (OAE) • Video Nystagmography (VNG)

To advertise your business in the Hays County Echo Service Directory, please call Suzanne at 512-268-7862 or email paper@ haysfreepress.com

Pediatric and adult care

Ear & Hearing

Thyroid and Parathyroid

Location

1005 W. San Antonio Suite A Lockhart, TX 78644

512.444.7944

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

Ear, Nose and Throat Services

512.268.5282

1180 Seton Parkway Suite 420 Kyle, TX 78660

Sudoku solution, from pg. 5

Austin Ear, Nose & Throat Clinic

Location

Lockhart Amber Bass, Au.D, CCC-A

HaysNewsDispatch.com

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

Kyle

@news_dispatch

www.

Enjoy the Sounds of Life Again

Two locations to serve you

•

• Ultrasound and Needle Biopsy • Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery

Allergy

• Testing for Pollen, Mold, Dust & Pet Allergens • Allergy Shots/Drops

Children’s ENT

• Ear Tube Placement • Tonsil & Adenoid Surgery • Minimally Invasive Sinus Surgery • Allergy Testing • Sublingual Therapy

Michael Yium, MD

Nose & Sinus

• Endoscopic Sinus Surgery • In-office Balloon Sinuplasty

Thomas Nowlin, MD

Throat, Head & Neck

• Sleep Apnea • Tonsil/Adenoid Surgery • Hoarseness Mark Dammert, MD

Visit us online at www.AustinENT.com page 15

FARMERS® Debbie Thames Insurance Agency AUTO • HOME • LIFE BOAT • HEALTH 251 N. FM 1626 #2C • Buda, TX 78610 Office: (512) 312-1917 • Fax: 312-0688 Email: dvthames@austin.rr.com Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm Your Business & Referrals Are Appreciated

• Massaging Dental Chairs • Digital X-Rays • Intraoral Cameras • Outdoor View in Each Room • Emergency Patients Welcome • Se Habla Español

www.CapstoneDentalKyle.com 512-268-4200 809 W. Center Street, Kyle

K

C

We know how it works!

• 24-hour Jail Release • Financial Arrangements • Warrant Walk-through • Accepting Visa, MasterCard & Discover • Serving all of Hays County

Located in the San Marcos Square

DESIGNS

Kristen Cannon graphic Artist

kristencannondesigns@gmail.com 512-466-4250

512-392-8999

www.sanmarcosbailbonds.com A US TI N

IN

R A D I O L O G I C A L

A S S O C I A T I O N

KYLE NOW OPEN

SCHEDULE NOW AT 512.453.6100 OR AUSRAD.COM. page 16 u august | 2015

1626

ACC

Plum Creek Golf Course

NOW OPEN

171 ssing

Kohler’s Crossing

Kyle Cro

We look forward to serving you and your family!

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ARA

The Kyle location features all the convenience and trusted service you expect from ARA as well as leading-edge technology such as 3T MRI, 3D mammography and low-dose CT.

4211 BENNER ROAD, SUITE 100 • KYLE, TEXAS 78640

Benner Rd

ARA is pleased to announce the opening of a full-service medical imaging center and breast imaging center in Kyle. ARA in Kyle is conveniently located for residents of Kyle, Wimberley, Buda, Manchaca and all points in between.