July 2016 Hays County Echo

HAYS COUNTY

ECHO INSIDE

A look at vocational training and opportunities in Hays County

JULY 2016

FREE PUBLICATION

POSTAL CUSTOMER

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage Paid Barton Publications

HAYS COUNTY

ECHO is published monthly by Barton Publications, Inc 113 W. Center St., Kyle, TX Contents © July 2016.

Publisher Cyndy Slovak–Barton Editor Moses Leos III Graphics Director David White Graphics Assistant Christine Thorpe Contributing Writers Chris Reid Moses Leos III Samantha Smith

Distribution Suzanne Hallam Marketing Tracy Mack Jim Darby Suzanne Hallam Paula Pulley Pamela Patino For advertising information, please contact our sales department at 512–268–7862. page 2 ◆ july | 2016

EDITOR’S NOTE

I

n today’s fast-paced, technologically advanced world, society at times blinks an eye at the things that make our lives easier.

Whether it’s something as complicated as air conditioning and indoor plumbing, to driving in your car, having an evening dinner or getting your haircut, we take such things for granted.

As we push ahead in our digital age, our society continues to look toward those who dedicate themselves to their trade to build and structure our future.

This month, the Hays County Echo salutes tradespeople, those who work in fields such as plumbing, heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), welding, cosmetology, the culinary arts and so much more.

Our focus begins at the grade school level, where Hays CISD’s Career and Technical Education program helps interested

Inside

students forge a path into trade careers.

We also look at the Associated PlumbingHeating-Cooling-Contractors of Texas, which helps with mandatory continuing education for those who are in the plumbing and air conditioning fields.

Reporter Samantha Smith focuses on Gary Job Corps, which raises awareness for the future of trade careers by offering training to young persons.

Also in this month’s edition, Chris Reid takes readers through ways to deal with weather conditions when it comes to properly irrigating your garden.

From the plumber who lays pipeline for buildings, to the auto technician fixing our vehicles, tradespeople are essentially the superheroes of our society.

Thanks for reading, Moses Leos III, Editor

Forging careers for the next generation ..................................4-5 Hays CISD kids get a head start with Career and Technical Education (CTE)

Looking for a few good plumbers ............................................6-7 Vocational educators direct millenials toward old school careers

Gary Job Corps ..........................................................................8-9 San Marcos training center offers valuable vocational training

Texas Wages ............................................................................... 10 What do you want to be when you grow up? And how much does it pay?

Central Texas Events .............................................................12-13 Top picks for events and festivals

The Ways of Water ...................................................................... 14 Watering tips for your lawn and garden. Sometimes less is more.

Service Directory ........................................................................ 15 Find service professionals in your area

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Hays CISD forging career paths for the next generation

page 4 ◆ july | 2016

by Moses Leos III

F

rom welding to cosmetology and just about everything in between, Hays CISD’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) program helps students forge paths into varying careers.

Suzi Mitchell, Career and Technology director for Hays CISD, said certification programs in CTE provides assistance, as not every student is suited for college “I want to make sure they are going to have a skill and a career, whether they are going to college or not,” Mitchell said. “Even if you want to go to college, you can do (these jobs) through college to support yourself, instead working fast food. You can make a lot of money and have so many skills.”

Hays’ CTE program features various certifications across a variety of career fields.

Within the district’s EMT certification, students pair up with the Kyle and Buda fire departments for classes held during the spring of their senior year.

“I want to make sure they Mitchell said the training allows are going to have a skill them to be a fully licensed EMT when and a career, whether they they graduate.

Other programs are going to college or not. include pharmacy technician Even if you want to go to certification, along college, you can do (these with certifications in QuickBooks for jobs) through college to accounting, Adobe for computer support yourself, instead science and Serve Safe certifications working fast food. You can for students who go into culinary arts. make a lot of money and “In Austin, at all have so many skills.” times, a restaurant has to have a –Suzi Mitchell, manager on duty Career and Technology director for Hays CISD with a Serve Safe certification,” Mitchell said. “They (the students) have a step up. When they interview you, they don’t have to train you. You’ve already have it. That’s a big deal.”

One trade in demand is welding, Mitchell said. Next fall, the district is planning to open their welding and construction technology building at Lehman High.

Roughly 130 students signed up to take part in the new welding program at Lehman, with the district hiring two full-time teachers to instruct them.

“They are going to go to work. They are going to make money right away,” Mitchell said. “It’s a huge industry.

Mitchell said the district begins talking with students in their 8th grade photos by Moses Leos III

year to begin directing them on a career path.

“We try to get them in and get them in the right direction from the start,” Mitchell said.

Students who take part in the CTE program start their career pathway during their freshman year of high school. She said House Bill 5 (HB5), which was passed by the Texas Legislature in 2013, allowed for funding for a four-year path toward a CTE career.

The district also partners with Austin Community College for articulation courses, which are “almost” like dual credit courses, Mitchell said.

Students who participate in articulation can take free classes in high school to obtain college credit at ACC. Mitchell said 444 Hays CISD seniors from Lehman and Hays High collected credits via the articulation program, which saved the students roughly $171,000 this year.

Continuing to keep future high school students interested in possibly exploring CTE based careers is the task for the program, Mitchell said. It begins with the district’s Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) courses taught in elementary schools.

Mitchell said more girls are taking part in STEM courses.

“We try to get them to start thinking in that direction,” Mitchell said. “It’s how do we get more STEM classes in elementary school and what we need to do to start them. If we can start them young, it’s a good thing.”

While the focus for some career paths does change, such as the district moving toward bio-medical certification and away from health science, Mitchell said most CTE program’s are in demand and “aren’t going to go away.”

“There’s always going to be a demand.

I don’t see our programs going away,” Mitchell said. “We have to make sure what we put our money into, we’re getting our bang for our buck. I don’t see those careers going away, not in my lifetime.”

Mitchell said 444 Hays CISD seniors from Lehman and Hays High collected credits via the articulation program, which saved the students roughly $171,000 in this year.

page 5

Millennial plumbers Is there an app for that? by

Moses Leos III

C

ontinuing education for those in the plumbing and heating, ventilation and air conditioning field is a way of life for the Buda-based Associated Plumbing-Heating-CoolingContractor’s of Texas.

As a conduit for mandatory continuing education in those trades, the PHCC draws tradespeople from across the Central Texas area.

But changing how people perceive those industries, primarily plumbing, is a main focus for Alicia Dover, executive director of the PHCC. With a plumbing workforce that is aging, Dover hopes reaching out to the younger generation can shorten an age gap in the industry.

The PHCC offers continuing education classes for those in the plumbing and HVAC industries.

Those who work as plumbers must have six hours of continuing education, while those who work in AC must have eight hours.

Dover said the reasoning for continuing education is based on state rules for both trades. She said plumbers must operate according to a set of state laws and rules. In addition, plumbers must also adhere with city code as well.

She said within the six hour course, plumbers go over all of the rules and laws. With each new legislative session, Dover said there are changes and updates to laws, which turns into change in rules.

Those in the AC field are overseen by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.

She said the PHCC has teachers that are approved by the state.

“We are heavily mandated,” Dover said. “You can’t just teach it. You have to have a license to teach.”

But over the past year, Dover’s job has shifted toward workforce development.

Dover said the issue is a skills gap in the industry. The average age

page 6 u july | 2016

photos courtesy of Alicia Dover

of a plumber is 55 to 56 years-old, according to Dover, who wrote in a 2013 article in the Austin Construction News there woldn’t be enough people in the “pipeline” when current plumbers retire.

Combating the gap is a challenge as plumbing isn’t a trade that can be outsourced, Dover said.

“For every four plumbers that retire, we’re only getting one replacement,” Dover said.

Another major issue is training time in the field. A person must work 4,000 hours to become a tradesman and 8,000 hours to become a journeyman.

It then takes another four years to become a master plumber.

Fighting off the stigma of the plumbing trade is also something Dover is attempting to do. She said plumber’s often are cast as those who only fix clogged drains and toilets.

Dover said plumbers lay pipe, help

build houses, install fire sprinklers and buildings and put in medical gas at hospitals.

“When people think of a plumber, they think of the ‘old person with the butt crack showing’ mentality,” Dover said. “We hate that because that’s not who we are.”

While the gap is a problem, Dover said there are avenues for solutions.

Talking to high school students is a major way the PHCC is combating the

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With a plumbing workforce that is aging, Alicia Dover, executive director of PHCC, hopes reaching out to the younger generation can shorten an age gap in the industry. age gap. Prior to the passage of House Bill 5 in 2013, Dover said plumbers were not invited into the school system.

After the Texas Legislature passed HB5, which brought in endorsements, it allows them to reach out to high school students.

“It’s allowing us to tell them we have jobs and good paying jobs, and that they don’t have to go through a trade or four-year college to get there,”

Dover said.

The PHCC also informs those who are 18-years-old or older of apprenticeship programs, which could allow aspiring plumbers to reach the master certification in one year.

“We have to continue because it’s going to take a long time to get the (age gap) to shift,” Dover said. “We not only have to get the schools and apprenticeships ready. e have to train the business owners to be ready.”

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Gary Job Corps trains for trade careers

BY SAMANTHA SMITH

W

photo courtesy of Gary Job Corps

VISION

ith advanced job markets available to Central Texans in the 21st Century, many people opt for an academic education at a four-year university in order to remain competitive.

But when a person’s car breaks down or their plumbing backs up, people aren’t going to call a person with a Ph.D. in psychology to fix it.

They’re instead going to call a mechanic or a plumber, someone who has been specially trained for the specific job.

While it’s easy to overlook those careers until their skills are needed, there are still avenues that will properly train and prepare people for careers in welding, electrical, a/c and heating, plumbing, automotive mechanics and so many more.

One such place for training trade skills in Hays County is Gary Job Corps, located in San Marcos.

Randolph Goodman, Business Community Liaison for Gary Job Corps, said that trade skills are vital to our economy.

Gary Job Corps, which has been around for 52 years, has trained millions of people across the nation in vocational skills, Goodman said.

“We have academic institutions all around, but what happens when someone with an English degree needs a house built? He has to find someone skilled in that trade,” Goodman said.

Gary Job Corps is a vocational training school for men and women ages 16 to 25. They offer training in areas such as plumbing, electrical, welding, as well as some academic classes for students interested in getting their GED. Goodman said depending on a students aptitude level upon entering

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the Corp, and the vocational program they are interested in, training can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete.

According to Goodman, Gary Job Corps also organizes work-based learning or apprenticeships for their students in the nursing field, plumbing, and electrical fields.

Goodman also said that Gary Job Corps students were responsible for pouring the concrete for the base of the windmills in Kyle.

In addition to the fast paced training schedule, Goodman confirmed that people who graduate from Gary Job Corps in these trade skills can expect a state-mandated minimum salary of $8.60 per hour.

Certain trades, like welding, can offer job opportunities with railroad companies, which can pay around $30 per hour.

All job corps graduates in their field

can expect the same benefits as anyone else in a full-time career, such as health insurance and retirement planning, according to Goodman.

An education in a vocational trade can open many more doors for individual growth and opportunity, Goodman said.

One example is MaryAnn Gamble, a family physician at Austin Regional Clinic Kyle/Plum Creek, who graduated from Gary Job Corps as an electrician.

Goodman said Gamble worked in that field for a while until she decided to go into the Air Force.

When she got out of the Air Force, Gamble decided to go to medical school and became a physician.

Goodman recalled when Gamble first arrived at Gary Job Corps with her high school diploma.

“She said she was living in her truck before she came to Gary Job Corps,” Goodman said.

When a person’s car breaks down or their plumbing backs up, people aren’t going to call a person with a Ph.D. in psychology to fix it.

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be o t t n a w u What do yo . . . p u w o r when you g

...and how much does it pay?

Below are 2015 wages reported by TexasWages.com, which compiles information provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The first salary figure is for the Central Texas region and second is a statewide figure.

Elementary School Teacher $51,542 $52,813 Middle School Teacher $50,337 $53,075 Vocational Education Teacher $49,358 $54,444 Hairdressers, Hairstylists & Cosmetologists $26,135 $26,810 Barber $30,137

$30,196

Heating & Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Mechanics $35,464 $42,830 Plumbers, Pipefitters and Steamfitters $38,287 $45,634 Mechanical Engineer Technicians $47,358 $61,634 Mechanical Engineers $84,538 $102,232 Environmental Engineer Technicians $53,671 $59,077

Construction & Building Inspectors $49,252 $55,151

Physicians and Surgeons $240,685 $197,413

Electricians $45,181

Lawyers $105,854

$45,678

$143,487

Reporters & Correspondents $40,871 $39,170

Postal Mail Carrier $49,576 $51,034

Receptionists & Information Clerks $24,693 $26,215

Real Estate Sales Agents $43,596 $68,409

Accountants & Auditors $64,477 $78,488

Real Estate Brokers $52,229 $106,120

Police & Sheriff Patrol Officers $51,317 $58,712

Environmental Engineers $124,372 $94,466

Welders, Cutters, Solderers and Brazers $34,866 $43,582

Airline Pilots, Co-Pilots and Flight Engineers N/A $189,862

Bartenders $19,176

Aerospace Engineers $80,345 $108,989

Chefs & Head Cooks $43,822 $43,378

Bus Drivers, Transit & Inner City $38,430 $35,372

Cooks, Fast Food $17,981 $18,565

Construction Laborers $29,328 $29,257

Vet Technologists and Technicians $25,671 $29,745

Bus Drivers, School or Special Client $25,634 $26,360

Waiters/Waitresses $19,595 $21,689

Construction Managers $75,358 $93,609

Veterinarians $131,150

Taxi Drivers and Chauffeurs $19,195 $24,441

$24,058

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I-35 from Kyle Crossing to RM 150 Open House

Vol. 120 • No. 13 13

Serving Buda, Kyle and Northeast Hays County, TX • 75¢ Serving Buda, Kyle and Northeast Hays County,

BY SAMANTHA SMITH

A Buda man was arrested Friday after authorities claim he rammed into the side of an off-duty Austin Police officer’s vehicle on Interstate 35 near the Robert S. Light overpass.

Authorities arrested Christopher Marcus

Williams, 28, of Buda, who was charged with aggravated assault against a public servant, which is a first-degree felony.

Bond has not been set for Williams at this time, according to Hays County Jail records.

Friday’s incident occurred around 6:20 a.m. when Austin Police officer

Lando Hall, who was returning home to Buda, observed Williams traveling eastbound on FM 967 WILLIAMS and driving recklessly, according to a Buda press release. Hall activated his lights and

sirens, turning around to pursue Williams and pull him over.

Hall lost sight of Williams’ vehicle at the FM 967 and Main Street intersection. He later spotted Williams getting on southbound I-35 at the 220 entrance ramp in Buda.

According to the release, Williams rammed the side of Hall’s vehicle, which was marked according

Hospital.

According to the arrest affidavit, Williams told an officer he “made a mistake” by striking the APD unit with his vehicle. Williams also told an officer he did not stop and lost control of his vehicle before crashing into a guardrail.

It is unknown at this time if drugs or alcohol were involved in the incident.

County resident helps neighbors protest CAD assessments

BY BAILEY BUCKINGHAM

news@haysfreepress.com

Olympic Ready PHOTO BY LINCOLN RAMIREZ

Hervol honored, Mitchell sworn in

BY BAILEY BUCKINGHAM

news@haysfreepress.com

As recently elected council member Travis Mitchell officially assumed his District 1 seat at Tuesday’s Kyle City Coun-

cil meeting, Mayor Todd Webster presented Diane Hervol with a plaque for her many years of city service.

City Hall was filled with Kyle residents who lent

Former Kyle council woman Diane Hervol was honored for her years of service on the city council, since 2010, by her fellow members at Tuesday night’s meeting.

Newly-elected council member Travis Mitchell will be replacing Hervol.

Hays County appraisals were sent to residents earlier this month and one resident is using his knowledge to help others file their protests before the July 6 deadline.

Bill Loeb, who was previously an Austin resident, has moved himself and his real estate company to Dripping Springs.

Aside from being a realtor, Loeb’s second “job” is helping residents protest their property appraisals.

Loeb said he refuses to take a profit from it, as the job is his way of giving back to his community.

Loeb said he’s been helping others file appeals for at least seven years, previously helping Travis County residents and now assisting residents in both Hays and Travis counties.

“I hate what the counties are doing, jacking up the assessments in order to get money,” Loeb said.

Loeb said he began helping people years ago when he realized there was a common frustration regarding people’s property assessments.

“Most people don’t know how to do it (file a protest), what information to bring and they think it’s going to be harder than it is,” Loeb said. “They also feel the deck is against them, and it is, but that’s why I want to help.”

Many of Loeb’s “clients” come from word of mouth, and Facebook groups.

Hays County resident Joe Roldan has never met Loeb in person, but connected via Facebook this year to help with his appraisal protest process.

“Bill is a very nice person who likes to help people solve problems,” Roldan said. “The process of disputing appraisal values is best approached with a structured approach, like Bill showed

“Most people don’t know how to do it (file a protest), what information to bring and they think it’s going to be harder than it is.

They also feel the deck is against them, and it is, but that’s why I want to help.”

–Bill Loeb, Realtor and Dripping Springs neighbor who helps others with tax assessment protests

Gracie Sierra Hough of Buda joined Congressman Lamar Smith for a lunch with other service academy appointees last weekend before she reports to the U.S. Naval Academy on June 30th. Hough attended Jack C. Hays High School. She was nominated by Rep. Smith in December after an application process and interview with an appointed board of academy graduates, and then received her formal appointment to the U.S. Naval Academy this spring.

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Michael McKie, Hays STAFF REPORT CISD superintendent, YMCA of Austin CEO said there have been James Finck presented preliminary meetings to a proposal at Monday’s discuss the benefits of a Hays CISD agenda review meeting for the district to pay for construction of a new pool at Camp Cypress, a YMCA-owned, 85-acre nature preserve, which is located in Buda at Onion Creek on Old San Antonio Road.

In the proposal, the YMCA is asking Hays CISD for $2 million to be added to the proposed May 2017 bond.

The YMCA would like the district to pay for the pool in order to build a stronger partnership between the two entities. After the pool is built, the YMCA will take on full responsibility of operations and maintenance Finck said it would be an opportunity to expand recreation activities and have a location for a Hays CISD swim team.

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COMING UP

me, and by researching the appraisal process and gaining a thorough understanding of how it works.”

Roldan said Loeb gave him the structure and basis of an argument to get his inflated property value assessment lowered. Roldan is currently in the midst of the protest process and does not know yet if he will be successful.

“I’ve probably talked to all of them,” Loeb said.

“My phone rings all day everyday during this time frame, but I love it and I love helping people.”

Through Facebook, Loeb has been able to get in contact with many residents in need of assistance.

After several people ask for help, Loeb sets up a time and a place to hold seminars. Flores Restaurant in Dripping Springs

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On June 24, Buda Parks and Rec will host a showing of Goonies at Buda City Park. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and snacks for comfort. Admission is free. Movies begin at 9:00 p.m.

Casino Night

Onion Creek Senior Center invites the public to a night of casino fun with blackjack, bingo and more on June 25 with check in at 5:30 p.m.

Call 512-295-3413 for more info.

YMCA Open House

After more than a year of renovations, the Hays Communities YMCA celebrates its new and improved facility with the grand re-opening and community open house on Saturday, June 25, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. The open house will allow the general public to get a first look at the new digs. The event will include free indoor and outdoor pool access, family exercise classes, food and drinks and more.

SUMMER FUN

Entertainment biz flourishes in Kyle, Buda – Page 1D

INDEX

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to an arrest affidavit, on southbound I-35 near the Robert S. Light overpass.

The collision caused Hall’s vehicle to crash into the center divider.

Hall observed that Williams continued driving across the median and crashed on the access road of I-35.

Hall was uninjured in the accident, but Williams was sent to Brackenridge

Slaying the ‘tax dragon’

With a flag waving in the air behind him, Sven Lancaster runs along the sidewalk near the Kyle Public Library during the city’s 2016 Olympic Day celebration on Saturday. In the spirit of the impending Summer Olympic Games, the Kyle library held a program to celebrate Olympic Day, which is celebrated in 160 countries. Events at the program were designed to engage young people and promote the ideals of the Olympics. Events included a torch lighting ceremony at City Square Park, along with a torch run through neighborhood streets to the library. Olympic athlete Gary Van der Wege taught members of the community about the history of swords and the sport of fencing.

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Buda man arrested after ramming police vehicle news@haysfreepress.com

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Central Texas Festivals & Events July 2

Big Scoop Ice Cream Festival – Wimberley

July 1-3

VFW Rodeo – Wimberley Wimberley, at Wimberley Valley Veterans Park, Jacobs Well Rd (CR 182). Wimberley VFW hosts the annual VFW Rodeo. Don’t miss the “Best CPRA Rodeo of the Year”. Gates open at 5:30 p.m. Mutton bustin’ starts at 7 p.m. and rodeo starts at 8 p.m. Food, fun and rodeo! Don’t miss the spectacular fireworks display on Sunday. It’s free and great fun for the whole family.

July 2

At Wimberley Community Center.

12-7 p.m. Old fashioned ice cream festival with live entertainment and contests every hour on the hour.

Proceeds benefit Camp Good SamWimberley. $10 for adults; children 12 and under free. Annual event. Contact Saint Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 512-847-9956, jwatson@ststeve.org

July 4

Summerfest – San Marcos At San Marcos Plaza Park, 401 E. Hopkins. 6-10 p.m. Celebrates Independence Day. Children’s costume contest and patriotic parade, live music, local vendors, food, children’s activities and spectacular fireworks display. Fun for the Whole Family. Free parking. www.summerfestsmtx.com

Wimberley Market Days On Saturday, July 2, from 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. head to the Lions Field in Wimberley for this free monthly event. Enjoy live music and locally made goods at one of the largest outdoor markets in the area. For more information, email shopwimberleymarketdays@gmail. com or visit shopmarketdays.com.

July 2

Birding Hikes – location varies Interested in birding hikes? From water fowl to woodpeckers to hawks to songbirds - you never know which feathered friends will be spotted.

Hikes are guided by Stephen Ramirez, a local photographer and unicycle enthusiast. Location varies each month and cycles through green spaces, preserves and riverside parks.

The group meets the first Saturday of every month at sunrise. For more information and to receive location notifications contact Stephen@ birdsiview.org.

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July 4

Independence Day Parade – Wimberley Join the fun for an old fashioned July 4th celebration and parade complete with horses, stagecoach, bands, clowns and a wide variety of floats. Parade begins at 10:00a on FM 2325 at Green Acres and travels through the Wimberley Square and out Old Kyle Road to the old First Baptist Church.

July 4

Red, White & Buda Come celebrate Independence Day at Buda City Park. A morning children’s parade filled with decorative bicycles, wagons, and unique kid’s floats take route on Main Street beginning at 9 a.m. Bounce houses and more family fun can be found at City Park until 11:30 a.m. The celebration continues into the night with live music and a spectacular fireworks display at 9:30 p.m.

July 4

Independence Day in Kyle The City of Kyle will be celebrating the 4th of July with a fireworks show launched from Plum Creek Golf Course (PCGC). Plum Creek Golf Course will host a July 4th golf tournament as well. From 6-9 p.m., the pre-show celebration at the Plum Creek Golf Course Clubhouse is free to the public and includes live music and fantastic viewing. Hays CISD’s PAC will host music until the fireworks start. The free public program starts off with The Blue Water Highway Band performing at 7 p.m. followed by the Starlight Symphony Orchestra and Community Choir at 8:30 p.m. The fireworks show will launch from the golf course around 9:30 p.m.

July 4

Popsicle Run – Plum Creek Monday, July 4 Negley Elementary School will host the Popsicle Run 4 miler/3K/1K beginning at 7 a.m.

Three distances to choose from – “walk, jog, or run” WITH COLOR!

The course will split at each color station for those who wish to avoid color. 4 miler, 3K Course, 1K Course.

Early Packet Pickup and walk up registration available at Plum Creek Community Center (450 Haupt), July 3, 4-6 p.m. Race Day Packet Pick up and walk up registration begins at 6:00 a.m. 4 miler starts at 7:00 a.m. and the 3K/1K start about 8:30 a.m. Enjoy a challenging course that covers much of Plum Creek!

For added fun, this run will include some color stations, along the course. You can take a side path and avoid the color, or go right through the middle of it! Popsicles provided

by Lone Star Delights will reward the participants at the finish line.

Register here.

July 5

Hometown Patriotic Concerts – Wimberley Join the Hill Country Community Band and the Wimberley Community Chorus for the 5th annual concert series, directed by Charles Flores and James Malik.

Concerts will be held Monday, July 4 at 1 and 4 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Wimberley. The event is free and open to the public.

July 7

First Thursday – Buda, Dripping Springs From 5-8 p.m., businesses on Buda’s Main Street and Dripping Springs’ Mercer Street and Old Fitzhugh Road will welcome customers with specials, giveaways and live music for all to enjoy at participating merchants. First Thursday is a monthly event featuring downtown businesses who are alive after five.

July 8

Movies at Lake Kyle Bring your blanket and snacks and meet your friends at Lake Kyle at 700 Lehman Road for a screening of “Hotel Transylvania 2”. Movies begin 30 minutes after sunset and are shown at the amphitheater at Lake Kyle. The event is free to the public.

M AR

LL O

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July 9

Tomato Round-Up – Dripping Springs

July 9

Kyle Market Days Come out to Historic City Square Park in Kyle for the 2016 season of Market Days. This month’s theme is “Good Health, Good Life.” Enjoy a day of local vendors, arts & crafts, farm to market items, live music and more. The event is held from 9 a.m.

- 1 p.m.

July 9

Second Saturday Gallery Trail – Wimberley More than a dozen galleries offer wine, snacks and art displays from 4-7 p.m. around the Wimberley square. Visit www.facebook.com/ SecondSaturdayGalleryTrail for more information.

July 9

Art Squared Art Market – San Marcos Head to downtown San Marcos for paintings, sculptures, jewelry, crafts, live music and more. The second Saturday art market goes from 9 a.m.4 p.m. on San Marcos’ downtown square March through December.

Back by popular demand, Dripping Springs Farmers Market will present the 5th Annual Tomato Round-Up Saturday, July 9 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park, or “The Triangle,” at Hwy 290, Hwy RR12 and Mercer Street. Tomato RoundUp is a celebration of gardeners and their favorite fruit – the red, juicy, ripe Tomato! Don’t miss this annual fun community event that brings together local growers and tomato lovers to celebrate and showcase everything Tomato. Registration for the tomato contests are from 9-10 a.m. Gardeners are encouraged to enter their tomatoes in five categories: Heirloom, Cherry, Yellow, Red Slicer, and Roma. A panel of distinguished community members and tomato enthusiasts will judge the tastiest, prettiest, biggest and most unusual tomatoes.

July 29

Dive-in Movie – Kyle Meet your friends at the Kyle pool for a screening of “Happy Feet”.

Pool staff will begin handing out admission tickets at 7 p.m. until all 230 tickets are handed out. The pool gates will reopen at 8 p.m. and only admit those 230 people with admission tickets. Gates open at 8 p.m. and pool closes 30 minutes after conclusion of the movie. For more information contact Kyle Parks and Rec at 512-262-3939. The event is free to the public.

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page 13

The Ways of Water

BY CHRISTINE REID

F

olks say there’s only two kinds of weather here in Texas: floods and droughts. After experiencing the last few years of weather extremes, few would disagree with that. From the intense heat and dry weather of 2011 to the violent gully washers of 2015 and 2016, some Central Texas gardeners are throwing up their hands, wondering how to deal with it all. While no one can change the weather, we can adjust to it, especially when it comes to watering plants in the ground.

To begin with, not enough people water their gardens correctly, especially in the summer. Many water too often and too lightly or they run out to the garden, dump a bunch of water on the ground when they happen to think of it and then race back indoors to stand under the air conditioning vent. They water in the blazing heat of the day or late at night. The point is, they’re wasting time as well as water and they’re putting their plants at risk of getting diseases or dying.

A plant’s water needs are based on many factors: how established it is, the time of year, the quality of the soil, the variety of plant, the current weather conditions, the time of day and so on.

It’s important to know the water needs of each plant in order to avoid problems later. In general, the best time to water plants is early in the morning.

Even though it may be more convenient, watering in the evening means that wet leaves may not dry until sunup, making the plant more susceptible to fungal diseases.

Keep in mind that you’re not actually watering the plant, you’re watering the soil, with the water eventually getting to the roots of the plant. So, soil structure is a very important factor to consider when watering. Healthy soil holds moisture better. Not surprisingly, water goes quickly through sandy soil and slowly through clay soil, which doesn’t work well for most plants. Soil that has the appropriate amount of organic matter, however, will have the necessary pore space and water holding capabilities. As the water is applied to the soil, it seeps down,

page 14 ◆ july | 2016

layer by layer. If not enough water has been distributed, it won’t get to the root zone, while if you over water, the roots can drown. What makes it difficult is that plants that have received too much or too little water can look the same: wilted. If plants are drooping at the end of a hot day, check the soil. If it’s moist and then the plants have perked back up the next morning, they’re probably getting the right amount of moisture.

To see if plants need watering, check the soil’s moisture level six inches down. In general, if you have healthy, well-mulched (more about that in a bit) soil, watering the garden once or twice a week in the summer should suffice. When watering by hand, take several swipes with the hose or watering can until the area is thoroughly moistened. If using an in-ground watering system, check to see how long it takes to get the area adequately watered. Using a wand extension is better than using sprinklers, which can lose 30 percent or more of the wet stuff to evaporation. Drip irrigation, which is up to 90 percent efficient, is considered one of the best methods to water the landscape. Do some research to find the right system for your garden and budget.

One of the simplest ways to maximize the water retention in the soil is to use mulch. According to horticulturist Doug Welsh in “Texas Garden Almanac,” mulch is the “lowest technology, highest-impact gardening practice of all.” Along with helping to retain moisture, mulch suppresses weeds, moderates soil temperature, can provide organic matter and reduces soil erosion. Natural products are the better choice, like grass clippings,

leaves, old hay or compost. Many people also like using hardwood mulch or cedar mulch. Whatever you use, be generous and pile the mulch 2-6 inches thick, depending on the plant and the material being used. In general, 2-3 inches of mulch is a good amount to start with in this area. Don’t let the mulch touch the base of the tree or plant, as that could cause rotting.

There will also be times when water is the last thing your garden needs.

And sometimes, flooding or excessive rainfall can cause a few plants, especially low-water varieties, to succumb. Just shake your fist at the sky and carry on, if that happens. Other plants may look miserable for a few weeks, but will be able to recover. Besides having an umbrella handy, there are a few things to remember when the skies open up.

To avoid compacting the soil or spreading diseases, don’t walk in the garden when it’s wet and muddy. If you must go in the garden when it’s rained heavily, put down some boards or mulch to walk on in order to protect the soil. Also, don’t dig in saturated soil – wait until it’s dried out before working in it. Watch for wet weather-loving pests like slugs that feed on both living and decaying plants. Hand pick them or set out bowls of cheap beer that’s been sunk into the ground so that the slugs will fall in and die happy.

Applying the right amount of water in your landscape not only saves you time and money, it also means healthier plants that will be better equipped to handle almost any kind of weather, even in Texas.

Any questions? Send an email to reidsnursery@gmail.com or call us at (512) 398-6011. Enjoy your garden!

“There will also be times when water is the last thing your garden needs.”

Watering Tips ◆ In general, the best time to water plants is early in the morning. ◆ To see if plants need watering, check the soil’s moisture level six inches down. ◆ Use mulch to maximize water retention in the soil. ◆ Using a wand extension is better than using sprinklers, which can lose 30 percent or more water to evaporation. ◆ To avoid compacting the soil or spreading diseases, don’t walk in the garden when it’s wet and muddy.

Hays County Echo Service Directory AIR CONDITIONING AIM A/C and Heating Service Free estimates for replacements.

Service, sales, installs, duct cleaning.

Locally owned and operated.

Licensed, bonded, insured and registered.

512–312–9080 www.AIM4AC.com

APC Service, LLC Electrical, A/C, heating Commercial and residential.

Free service call with repair.

512–295–4023 www.APCServicePros.com

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

Climate Mechanical

XEVEX Concrete Services

Service all models. Authorized Trane dealer. Heating, air conditioning and insulation. Emergency service provided.

512-858-9595.

Free estimates! Bonded & insured.

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

512–312–4214 www.xevexllc.com

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

BARNS Timber-N-Steel Horse barns, sheds, machinery storage, pole houses, garages, RV & boat storage, patio covers, carports and decks.

512-968-7327

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 512–781–2911 or steelhorseconstructors@gmail. 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

GLASS SERVICE Berry Glass Company 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.

LANDSCAPING/LAWN CARE Affordable Lawn Care Call on Mario for all your lawn needs: Mowing, raking, chainsaw, flowerbeds, fence repair, debris removal, etc. Mario Reyna, 512-7431386

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.

LAWN SPRINKLERS Tate Irrigation

TCEQ Landscape Irrigator. Sprinkler system installation, repair and maintenance and lawn drainage.

LI0020603. 214-598-9243.

LEGAL SERVICES John A. Hall

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

LOCKSMITH AALCO Locksmiths

Auto, home, business. Established 1985, License B11969.

512-443-3444, lockmedic.com

PAINTING

ROOFING

Alex’s Painting

Area Roofing Company

Residential & commercial painting, texturing, sheetrock 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

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

Ron Johnson, owner 512–312–5050

PEST CONTROL Burnett Pest & Lawn Services Call Dale Burnett or Ken Graff at 512-912-6696, burnettspestcontrol.com

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 & cleans pressure washing, full service repairs, replastering. Free estimates, call Keith Miller at (512) 965-3465.

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

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

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 March. 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

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