Living in Hays County Summer 2017

Living H C S in

ays

ounty

A guide to home services in your area

ummer

2017

Buda | Dripping Springs | Kyle | Wimberley a product of Barton Publications, Inc.

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Beautify your yard with Garden-Ville

S

pring is the season that begs for people to go outside and enjoy its natural beauty.

It’s also the time of year where greenthumbs, regardless of expertise, can tackle those lingering landscaping projects they’ve been envisioning all winter.

Whether you’re planting a garden, making a new flowerbed or brightening up planters, now is a great time for you to get dirty.

Since 1957, Garden-Ville has been committed to making quality natural garden products, as well as having a personal responsibility in making a difference in local communities and the environment.

A TDS affiliated company, Garden-Ville uses a “closed loop” process that diverts green waste, brush and tree trimmings from throughout

Texas and repurposes them to make quality mulches, soils and composts.

The company collects food waste from local schools and businesses and incorporates it into compost and soil blends to make rich natural products that are effective in the garden and good for the environment.

Garden-Ville also specializes in natural soil amendments, organic pest and disease solutions, bulk and bagged soils, landscape supplies and everything else you need to maintain your lawn and garden.

What can you do to ensure their planting projects are off to the right start?

To spur new growth on plants, apply liquid fertilizer, such as Garden-Ville Sea Tea which is made with compost tea, fish emulsion, seaweed and other nutrients, to foliage and soil.

Doing so can enhance plant growth, increase blooms and promote resistance to harmful insects and disease.

For new plantings, always use Mycorrhizal Fungi as a way to establish roots more quickly and prevent transplant shock. Mycorrhizal

Fungi is naturally occurring, highly effective and easy to use. When digging a hole to install new plants, dust the hole with the fungi before installing the plant and make sure plant roots have contact with the fungi.

For new beds and installations, try Garden-Ville’s line of natural garden soils, composts and mulches, including Superior Soil, foodwaste compost and bio-solid blends.

Garden-Ville’s Nitro Gem 7-2-2 granular slow-release fertilizer provides a blend of nutrients for your landscape while promoting lush green growth. Apply before a rainfall to feed your landscape throughout the growing season.

Visit Garden-Ville in San Marcos or Creedmoor for help with any of your spring gardening needs.

WWW.PPAS.COM 512-539-9167 CALL TODAY FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE! A product of Barton Publications | 3

Living IN HAYS COUNTY

Living in Hays County is published by Barton Publications, Inc. 113 W. Center St., Kyle, TX 78640 Contents Š 2017 Cover photo by Travis Mitchell Publisher: Cyndy Slovak-Barton Editor: Moses Leos III Graphics Director: David White Graphics Assistant: Christine Thorpe Distribution: David White Marketing: Tracy Mack,Jim Darby

4 | Living in Hays County | SUMMER 2017

In this issue...

Featured Articles

Beautify your yard with Garden-Ville........................................3 Growing your dreams in a new home ......................................6 When considering insurance, consider expertise, options and peace of mind......................................7 Breathing easy in Buda.............................................................8 Kyle: City experiences 493% growth since 2001....................9 Noticeably different, noticeably better.....................................10 Service, service, service comes first in real estate...................11 Living in the Gateway to the Hill Country: Dripping Springs....12 Culture drives tourism to Wimberley........................................13 Not just gun safety at Lone Star Guns.....................................15 Fulfill your dreams at Lakeside Crossing.................................16 Find resort-style living at The Green.........................................17 Solve your problems with pro storage.....................................18 Find innovation at Premier Pools and Spas.............................19 Take on outdoor power like a Bear...........................................21 Barton Publications grows with Hays County..........................22

Advertiser Index

Lakeside Crossing....................................................................2 Premier Pools and Spa.............................................................3 Hays Insurance Group..............................................................5 Garden-Ville..............................................................................5 A-Line Outdoor Power..............................................................6 DrippingSpringsRealEstate.com..............................................7 Penny Moulder, Realtor............................................................9 Morningstar Storage.................................................................11 The Green at Plum Creek.........................................................14 Demaster-Daniel Insurance Agency.........................................15 Pacesetter Homes....................................................................15 Trust Texas Bank.......................................................................18 Lone Star Gun Safes.................................................................19 Texas Disposal Systems...........................................................20 David Weekley Homes..............................................................21 Barton Publications...................................................................24

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A product of Barton Publications | 5

Growing your dreams in a new home

F

or more than 40 years, David Weekley Homes has built a reputation for delivering inspired customer service and providing a home building experience second-to-none. In addition to exceptional quality, customers can select from a variety of innovative and thoughtfully-designed floor plans that live as good as they look, and personalize a home with Custom Choices™ to suit their tastes.

As part of the company’s commitment to providing exceptional service, homebuyers have a home team, including a personal builder, design consultant, sales consultant and warranty representative who will be with them throughout the home building journey and beyond.

David Weekley Homes is building in many of

Austin’s most sought-after communities, including Kyle and Buda, offering a home to suit a variety of lifestyles. Located in Kyle, homes in the community of Cypress Forest are priced from the $250s. Buyers can select from thee collections: Imagination Collection 55’, Imagination Collection 65’ and Executive Collection 80’, situated on 55-, 65- and 80foot homesites, respectively.

In addition, homeowners have access to a variety of amenities, including a future community amenity center with pool and pavilion, dining and shopping in downtown Kyle, nearby parks and natural attractions. Students attend highly-regarded Hays CISD schools. The model home is located at 161 Cypress Forest Drive and is open daily for tours.

Priced from the $225s,

6 | Living in Hays County | SUMMER 2017

there are two collections available in StoneRidge: Craftsman and Imagination, situated on 50-foot homesites with Craftsman and masonry elevations.

Located in Buda, homebuyers can choose from eight one- and two-story floor plans ranging from 1,400 – 2,700 square feet in size in the Imagination collection, while the Craftsman collection features five floor plans from 1,6002,900 square feet.

Community amenities include StoneRidge Park, a five-acre park with playground, rock climbing wall and sports fields.

Students attend Hays CISD schools. StoneRidge residents also have close access to the San Marcos Premium and Tanger Outlets. Downtown Austin and University of Texas at

Austin are 15 miles away.

There are also several home ready for move-in now, or available soon in StoneRidge, including: The Halden at 173 Bridgestone Way. Priced at $281,165, this one-story home features more than 2,200 square feet of living space with three bedrooms, two full baths and a two-car garage. The two-story Brumlow is priced at $308,492 and is expected to be ready in mid-May. Located at 219 Bridgestone Way, the home features four bedrooms, three full baths, one half bath and a two-car garage.

The model home in StoneRidge is located at 112 Bridgestone Way in Buda.

For more information about David Weekley Homes in Austin, call 866-933-5539 or visit DavidWeekleyHomes.com.

When considering insurance, consider expertise, options and peace of mind

M

ost people decide to do business with Hays Insurance Group because of ease, choice and advice. Imagine if you and your family would like to purchase some ice cream.

You drive around town and find an ice cream parlor and you enter the business and find only one flavor available.

On the other hand, you may find another ice cream parlor with a variety of flavors.

Which ice cream parlor would you choose?

Hays Insurance Group is an independent agency committed to finding the best insurance solutions for their customers, and because they are an independent agency, they are able to represent multiple carriers to compare

coverage and rates so they can offer their customers the best fit for them.

Principal agents Rod Limely and Eddie Hebert, along with agent Jayme Schnautz and customer service representative Shannon Williams, have 64 years of combined experience. This gives customers customers invaluable expertise and peace of mind.

Hays Insurance Group offers policies on auto, home, commercial and life as well as financial planning.

The next time your policy is renewing or possible looking for another solution for your insurance needs, give Hays Insurance Group at 512-262-3388.

We are committed to finding the best insurance solutions for you, your family and your business.

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Dripping Springs, TX 78620 A product of Barton Publications | 7

One of Buda’s most recent additions is the Buda dog park on Sportsplex Drive in Buda (left). The old mill structures downtown are getting a facelift and renovations in order to house new retail stores and restaurants (top right). Buda City Park has plans on expanding to include walking trails, water features, amphitheater, and much more (bottom right).

Breathing easy in Buda

by Moses Leos III

N

estled near Austin in what’s been called one of the fastest growing corridors in the nation, Buda continues to try to adjust to the influx of development.

Finding equilibrium between growth and the city’s small town roots is one factor Ann Miller, Buda Economic Development Corporation executive director, believes makes the city attractive.

Buda’s proximity to Austin, a mere 16 miles, is what Miller said makes the city attractive to those who seek to be close to big city amenities.

“But it also gives them a more quiet suburban lifestyle where everyone knows each other,” Miller said. “Buda has a small town feel, even though you’re near a big city.”

One way Buda is trying to balance the small versus big city feel is trying to keep the downtown sector local, Milller said.

The closer one gets to the interstate, the more people recognize there are more big city options.

“It’s the best of both

worlds,” Miller said. “You have the retail business international chains that residents say they want here, but also the small town feel and local flair in downtown.”

One challenge that’s developed lately is how landlocked Buda has become.

Buda’s extraterritorial jurisdiction abuts Austin in the north, Kyle to the south and east and Dripping Springs to the west.

With implementation of a new unified development code (UDC), Miller said the city is planning to work to make sure developers can find suitable property in the area to develop.

Now that growth has arrived, Miller said the next step is finding and bringing suitable jobs that match the skills of existing residents.

Many Buda’s residents average a 37-minute commute to work, with many heading north into Austin.

By going after target industries, such as advanced manufacturing jobs and office complexes, Miller said the city hopes to not only shorten commutes, but also keep

8 | Living in Hays County | SUMMER 2017

residents in the city as well.

Miller said there are two projects that could address the “daytime population of Buda” and could bring “a lot of quality jobs.” Miller could not discuss the nature of those projects at this time.

Going after a mix of sitdown family restaurants, along with “fast-casual” restaurants, could help Buda retain sales tax dollars in the area and limit retail leakage.

Home prices are another factor, as the average price per square foot in Buda is $126.

“That makes us more affordable than Austin, but not more affordable than other suburbs,” Miller said.

Buda city leaders in recent years have begun to explore the future possibility of adding garden homes, townhomes and duplexes, which could cater to young professionals and the aging population.

Roughly 38 percent of Buda’s estimated 13,215 residents in 2017 are between 18 and 44. The average age is 34.

“We know the city’s concerned with more diversity (in housing),” Miller said.

New businesses in Buda or coming soon for 2017 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Dream Cars of Austin Dapper House Vapes AMM Collision Heaven Hill Brands - Deep Eddy Elevations Health Austin Materials Creative Arts Austin Skope Broadband & Communications Beauty Studio Corbel Communications Industries Austin Pet Memorial Center Tiny House Coffee Roasters Buda Bike Co. Flint Hills Kwik Kar Well Boutique Spa Cricket Wireless Ameriprise Financial Services Next Level Texas Association of Mexican American Chamber of Commerce JD’s & Magic Cycle CEFCO Convenience Store Chip Semiconductor Mi-Box Buda Mill & Grain Studio 6 Speedtech Lights

Kyle

City experiences 493% growth since 2001 Staff Report Kyle Texas is just north of what Texas Monthly in 2014 called the fastest growing city in Texas – San Marcos. And Kyle isn’t far behind.

According to the Kyle Economic Development Council the city has had a 493% growth rate from 2001 to 2016.

The average number of homes that have been permitted to build in the city, to date, has been 50.55 per month. Commercial construction permits are 4.6 per month.

In an effort to guide and strengthen economic growth, the city has a 5-year Economic

New businesses in Kyle or coming soon for 2017 • Bio Life Plasma • Breadbasket Convenience Store • Comal Towing Service • Comfort Suites • Fairway Landing Apartments • Hampton Inn • Jason’s Custom Paint & Body • Marco’s Pizza • Oaks on Marketplace Apartments • Pups & Mutts • Republic Veterinary Hospital • Speedy Cash • Stepping Stone School, 2nd location • Summermoon Coffee • Texas Orthopedics, Sports and Rehabilitation Associates • Wright’s Emporium • Plus More

Strategic Plan to attract high tech manufacturing, destination recreation and professional business services.

What’s Next?

A new First Responders Training Facility at Austin Community College Hays Campus after Phase II expansion Two new hotels under construction: • 82-room Comfort Inn behind Target • 71-room Hampton Inn near Walmart and Seton Medical Center

Target Industries

based on the 5-year Economic Development Strategic Plan • High Tech Manufacturing • Destination Recreation • Professional Business Services

Sales Tax Revenue Brought in $6.4M FY 2016 (Oct 2015-Sept 2016), an increase of 13.56% over FY 2015 (Oct 2014-Sept 2015)

Penny Moulder Your Hays County Realtor CALL TODAY! Mobile: 512.850.4325 Office: 512.400.2441

TexasFamilyHome@gmail.com www.TexasFamilyHome.com • National Association of REALTORS® • Texas Association of REALTORS® • Women’s Council of REALTORS® • Four Rivers Association of REALTORS®

• Austin Board of REALTORS® • San Antonio Board of REALTORS®

• Board of Directors, Buda Chamber of Commerce

Randall MoRRis & associates

Each office independently owned and operated

A product of Barton Publications | 9

Noticeably different, noticeably better

Texas Disposal Systems celebrates 40 years of quality service

T

exas Disposal Systems, a leading resource management company that helps customers manage and divert waste to beneficial uses, is proud to be celebrating its 40th year of business in central Texas.

It’s been a wild ride for brothers Bob and Jim Gregory, who started the business in 1977 with nothing more than $10,000, one truck and one customer. Today, they still run the company, which now employs more than 850 employees. Thanks to a dedication to doing business the right way, Bob and Jim’s once-small trash pickup service has morphed into one of the largest independently owned solid waste companies in North America.

Different from industry standard

A History In Hays County While Texas Disposal Systems services communities as far east as Weimar and as far west as Alpine, Hays County has always been a special place for the Gregorys.

Texas Disposal Systems has been a leading solid waste services company throughout the county for several years, servicing cities such as San Marcos, Kyle, Buda, Wimberley and more. Additionally, Texas Disposal Systems services several HOAs, private businesses, entertainment venues, schools and residents across the county.

That type of excellence can only come from intent and purpose. With environmental stewardship and customer satisfaction at the forefront of all their business decisions, the Gregory brothers have

Brothers Jim (left) and Bob (right) Gregory started Texas Disposal Systems with just one truck in 1977.

innovated relentlessly in the world of solid waste collection.

Noticeably Different, Noticeably Better Forty years after starting off with one truck and one customer, TDS features major operations such as an award-winning Type 1 Municipal Solid Waste Landfill, Texas’ first-ever totally integrated facility of its kind.

It also includes a state-of-the-art Materials Recovery Facility,

10 | Living in Hays County | SUMMER 2017

which is dedicated to processing and handling single-stream recycling.

The facility processes 25 tons of material per hour, and all those materials are packaged for resale as new commodities for products made from recycled materials.

Other notable facilities at the company’s headquarters in Creedmoor includes facilities for a fleet of heavy-duty trucks, a large-scale compost facility, a metal recycling yard, and portable restroom and site services operations.

Even after TDS expanded its company umbrella to also include retail stores, school and community outreach programs, a pavilion to host non-profit organizations and many other interests, the Gregory brothers continue to find new ways to bring holistic approaches to diverting waste and revolutionizing the solid waste industry.

That’s how Texas Disposal Systems has been doing business in a noticeably different, noticeably better way. And that’s why the Gregory brothers look forward to the next 40 years.

Texas Disposal Systems provides the highest quality and most environmentally friendly services in the best interests of our customers, employees and the community.

Learn more about how TDS helps communities, organizations and schools manage and divert waste to beneficial uses at www. texasdisposal.com.

Service, service, service comes first in real estate

D

rippingSpringsRealEstate.com owner and manager Ross Quade has been actively engaged in buying real estate since 2003, and launched DrippingSpringsRealEstate. com under the Spyglass Realty brokerage in 2016 to serve the growing Hill Country marketplace as more families move out of Austin and further west.

The team currently employs 10 agents, 2 assistants and 1 stager to meet the demands and needs of both buyer and sellers.

The company’s real estate services are designed to meet the needs of buyers and sellers of residential property, luxury homes, ranches and investment properties. Utilizing comprehensive market analysis, news, commentary and free market reports in combination with a leading online presence enables the team

to give clients the additional benefits of online exposure and in-depth research that today's buyers and sellers demand.

Realtors at DrippingSpringsRealEstate.com are members of the Austin Board of Realtors, LuxuryHomes.com, Dripping Springs Chamber of Commerce and Wimberley Chamber of Commerce.

The team mission at DrippingSpringsRealEstate.com is to provide service, service service! Just as location, location, location is important when buying or investing in property, it's fundamentally important to have the best service possible in any real estate transaction. DrippingSpringsRealEstate.com stands out in the real estate field for havoing gone out of the way to make the business more transparent. The team offers free commentary, market reports and the

latest listings to VIP buyers so they can come out on top. In a hot, seller's market, it is extremely important that buyers are financially pre-qualified, knowledgeable and prepared to be able to obtain the property they want before ending up in a multiple offer situation, which could significantly increase the price of their home purchase.

“Our business relies on the trust our clients put into our team and our licensed real estate agents to work cohesively for our client's needs,” Quade said. As Aristotle once said, "the whole is more than the sum of its parts" and having representation that focuses on how to best achieve a clients' goals requires a team effort, unique strategies and an eye for detail.

The team at DrippingSpringsRealEstate.com hopes to accomplish much

in the future. As the group continues to turn the website into the leading local real estate authority, members aim to provide interviews with local business, builders, podcasts and specific floor plan and neighborhood information with vidoes. The business sets its focus on providing a truly unique experience that sets it apart, rather than just generating sales.

“We would appreciate the opportunity to earn your business and provide us the opportunity to help educate our clients about how we see things differently,” Quade said. Buyers and sellers are encouraged to contact Ross Quade via email at ross@drippingspringsrealestate.com or call (512) 580-9077 for answers about homes for sale or opinions with regard to the marketplace price of a property.

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A product of Barton Publications | 11

Living in the Gateway to the Hill Country

Dripping Springs

by Moses Leos III

As rapid growth encompasses the eastern part of Hays County, one can say Dripping Springs, with its scenic vistas and gorgeous sunsets, remains relatively unspoiled.

Now, it’s also fair to say development is knocking on Dripping Springs’ doorstep.

Some residents who live within Dripping Springs’ expansive boundaries have Austin addresses. In addition, more and more businesses, such as Starbucks and Chicken Express, have made their way to Dripping Springs in recent years.

The chance to experience the beauty of the Hill Country, without being too far away from the big city, is still attainable in the Dripping Springs area.

Sherrie Parks, Dripping Springs Chamber of Commerce executive director, said the Hill Country lifestyle is one of three factors that makes Dripping Springs attractive.

Success within the Dripping Springs Independent School District (DSISD) is another factor that draws attention.

According to a 2016 district press release, all five of Dripping Springs current campuses “Met Standard” ranking, according to the ratings from the Texas Education Agency.

“We get a lot of families that are looking for a good school district, or we have grandparents who have children in the area, and they want to be closer to them,” Parks said.

The city’s proximity to Austin, which is a short trip down U.S. Highway 290, helps as well.

Parks said approximately 90 percent of Dripping Springs residents travel elsewhere for work, with many going to Austin.

Dripping Springs’ small community atmosphere helps the area as well.

“We still have the community feel and people still like growing

Dripping Springs Chamber of Commerce Director Sherrie Parks says the “trifecta” of having distilleries, wineries and breweries in the area, give Dripping Springs an extra niche that makes the Hill Country more appealing for wedding venues. (photo by Bill Peary)

up in a small town community and having each others’ backs,” Parks said.

But tourism remains one of the largest economic development drivers in Dripping Springs.

One aspect is the “trifecta” of distilleries, breweries and wineries in the area. Many communities have one or two components, but Dripping Springs is unique to have all three, Parks said.

The area also benefits from the designation as the “Wedding Capital of Texas.” Dripping Springs filed for the trademark in 2014, with the Texas Legislature approving a bill giving the city the title in 2015, which was done through House Resolution 43 filed by State Rep. Jason Isaac (R-Dripping Springs) According to the chamber’s website, there are more than 35

12 | Living in Hays County | SUMMER 2017

wedding venues within a 15mile radius of Dripping Springs.

“People like to come out and experience that,” Parks said.

“The wildflowers and the scenery.”

While she has no numbers, Parks said there are “quite a few people” who come in for information about the city after having a wedding in the area.

But Dripping Springs isn’t immune to having to keep up with growth; the city had a 2016 estimated population of 2,619, according to data from The Retail Coach. But over 30,000 people live in the city’s ETJ. But Parks said the city now has to plan for infrastructure to accommodate the growth.

The city is going through the permitting process for expansion of its wastewater system to handle the development that’s come in.

“We don’t see a huge development boom,” Parks said of growth in the next five to ten years. “We don’t have the infrastructure to handle it right now.”

But most of the growth has been organic, Parks said. With more rooftops means the draw of more commercial businesses.

That includes Belterra Village, a 93-acre mixed use development that is projected to house a 14-screen movie theater.

Ensuring city leaders are cognizant of growing in a responsible manner leaves Parks cautiously optimistic. She cites the slowly expanding downtown district.

“There are more businesses locating on Mercer Street and Old Fitzhugh (in the downtown district),” Parks said. “Slowly developing our downtown district is exciting for us.”

Culture drives tourism to Wimberley

by Samantha Smith

Texas residents looking for an escape need look no further than Wimberley.

Cathy Moreman, Wimberley Valley Chamber of Commerce executive director, said Wimberley delivers the beauty of the Hill Country with a focus on the arts that everyone from young people to retirees can enjoy.

“The first thing people are inspired by when they come to Wimberley is the scenery,” Moreman said, “The rolling green hills provides a feeling of escape.”

Moreman said since the incorporation of Wimberley in 2000, the city has grown by leaps and bounds in its limits and in the extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ).

“The population in the city is 2,600 and outside in the ETJ is 12,000,” Moreman said.

Moreman said the quaint city is a hub for new businesses in the arts, retail and food.

Moreman said visitors to Wimberley can experience restaurants like The Leaning Pear, owned by a married couple who focus on organic, locally sourced artisan food, and the newly opened Jobell.

Visitors can then meander downtown to browse in some of the dozen art galleries, and possibly stay the night in one of the charming bed and breakfast inns that dot the Hill Country.

Moreman said Wimberley earned the coveted title of Texas Cultural District in 2015 due, in part, to the focus on celebrating the arts. They are one of only 38 such districts in the state of Texas.

In addition to the dozen or so art galleries, Wimberley also is home to Wimberley Glassworks, where hand blown glass is still practiced. Live music venues include the Cypress Creek Café and Inos; other tourist destinations are the Wimberley Players theatrical troupe at the Emily Ann Theater, Blue Hole Regional Park and Jacobs Well.

Moreman said the demographics in Wimberley range from young families interested in the good school systems to retirees looking for a quiet place to slow down and enjoy their retirement in the midst of art and nature.

“Lots of people come here to retire,” Moreman said. “But lots of young families come here too because the schools are so good.”

Moreman said the Wimberley ISD includes two elementary campuses, one middle school and one high school.

Wimberley is also home to private education institutions such as the Katherine Ann Porter School and St. Stephen’s Episcopal School.

So, whether people are looking for a quiet corner of the world to raise their young families or retirees looking to relocate to Wimberley for a serene place to live out their golden years, or adventurers looking for an interesting, relaxing weekend get-a-way filled with good food, great people and the beautiful scenery of the Hill Country, they need look no further than Wimberley.

“For a small town, we have a lot going on,” Moreman said, “People will find interesting things happening all year round in Wimberley.”

A product of Barton Publications | 13

14 | Living in Hays County | SUMMER 2017

Not just gun safety at Lone Star Safes

L

one Star Gun Safes manager and Buda resident Edward Moore knows a thing or two about firearm safety.

Having worked in law enforcement in the Houston area for several years, Moore understands the need to keep firearms, as well as other important documents, in a secure location.

By working with a company that provides safes made with high quality steel, Moore hopes to keep customers’ documents and valuables protected.

Fire and theft are commonly the biggest threats to people’s belongings, Moore said. While a fire safe is a solution for documents, it can also be easily taken at a thief’s leisure.

Moore said more people are turning to gun safes to

“No firefighter will tell you that a house fire stops at 1200 degrees.”

– Edward Moore, Lone Star Gun Safes manager and Buda resident

store valuables, as they are heavier to carry and are resistant to fire.

However, not all gun safes are made the same, with some customers sharing stories of purchasing box-store safes that are a “cheap knock-off.”

Some safes are made with Chinese Steel, which is bumpy as a result of impurities and

doesn’t have the same tinsel strength as American steel.

Those who consider buying a gun safe also must consider a fire rating.

During a fire, a safe that’s placed in a closet, or under stairs, could be subject to higher temperatures.

“No firefighter will tell you that a house fire stops at 1200 degrees,” he

said.

At Lone Star Gun Safes, major safe brands such as Champion, Superior, Safe Guard and Graffunder come with lifetime warranties against fire and attempted theft.

Another factor to consider is getting said safe in the home. Some companies charge up to $300 for curbside delivery.

Lone Star Gun Safes, which has been in the business for 20 years, prioritizes home delivery to the customer. In addition to the Buda location, Lone Star Gun Safes has locations in San Antonio and Houston.

For Moore, the most important thing for customers is to feel the steel of the safe.“You will learn why we say the only true security is that which you provide yourself,” Moore said.

FINAL PHASE CLOSEOUT

From the

290’s

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Also building in Kensington Trails, Crosswinds, and Blanco Vista For more information call Kristin or Nianne

512-323-6420 A product of Barton Publications | 15

Spend your days lakeside at Lakeside Crossing.

Fulfill your dreams at Lakeside Crossing

L

akeside Crossing is a new, private community of homes, unlike any other, now in Kyle. Roberts Communities is bringing their 45 years of Home Building Experience to empower local families to fulfill their dreams of home ownership -- In an amazing development with incredible amenities: – Resort Style Pool – Club House – 24/7 Fitness Center – BBQ & Covered Picnic Area – Beautiful Lake for Fishing & Sun Bathing – Kids Play Area & Basketball Court

Enjoy the pride of owning your own home with economic benefits such as potential tax benefits, building equity instead of wasting money on rent, Red Carpet Service from our friendly on-site management team.

Why pay rent when you can own a home at Lakeside Crossing?

Consider this– If you have been renting over five years, and paid $900 or more, you have wasted over $52,000, or more!

Lakeside’s Crossing’s clubhouse and pool are both newly built.

We have a easy six step program through our financial partners to get you into your own home quickly and build equity and provide a great lifestyle for your family.

You can Stop Paying Rent this year! Our Lakeside Crossing staff is ready to guide you to approval.

We are 100% committed to you. Our dedication

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is to professionalism, relationships, family, hospitality and always a sense of home.

Lakeside Crossing homes are Built Better to Last Longer. They have unitized construction for a better fit and improved structural integrity. Our homes are built with top quality where every aspect of materials and

appliances are top brands.

We also offer a Peace of Mind Five Year Service Contract.

Our location is close to excellent shopping, schools and medical facilities. Come by our community, just of IH 35, at 98 Gold Canyon Drive, in Kyle. Our number is 512-504-7698.

Our RBI license is # 3693

Find resort-style living at The Green

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ow in Kyle, there is a uniquely different community with an atmosphere of resort-style living. It lies on the border of a scenic golf course that harmonizes with the atmosphere of this oasis set apart in daily comforts.

The Green at Plum Creek provides all of the luxuries of a country club for its residents and much more.

It could be your next home!

The tone is set with exceptionally beautiful grounds, landscaped to provide a peaceful, parklike escape from the city, jobs and traffic. It is a pet friendly community with a full walking trail along side of the fairways and greens. Come in and see the incredible resort-styled pool and surrounding sunbathing decks.

Because it’s a lovely place to call home. It’s honestly that simple.

–Kelsie The Green at Plum Creek is designed and built with quality. They have adapted house specifications including granite counters, real wood cabinets, outlets on every wall for your television or to recharge electronic devices and oversized balconies or patios. Every detail of the interiors is designed to the highest quality and style available today.

They also work to enhance their residents’ personal quality of life.

The staff is proud that the residents join with us and are active in local civic and charity projects such as Back-to-School backpack and school supply events, 5K charity runs, PAWS animal shelter assistance; all of which gives you

a chance to meet your neighbors, contribute to others, and make new friends.

There are weekly cooking demonstrations in the common area demo-kitchen, summer concierge service around the pool, and backyard parties including a special July 4th Kyle city fireworks celebration, viewed from our back lawn with grilling, snow cones and music.

For gated community living, fun activities and an opportunity to make new acquaintances, The Green at Plum Creek offers it all.

Residents can tone-up at your convenience in the 24-hour modern fitness center or yoga studio.

There is even a monthly golf pass available for the adjacent Plum Creek Golf Course. You can walk to your game that includes a cart and other amenities.

The community is expertly managed by Capstone Real Estate Services and is known for friendly, professional service that goes above and beyond the expectations of residents on a daily basis. The on-site staff will welcome you for a visit and provide over the top

service with Hill Country sophistication for your needs as a valued resident.

Schedule an appointment today and you will immediately see the elegant difference at The Green at Plum Creek.

Visit www.thegreenatplumcreek.com or see our Facebook page.

Absolutely love living here. It’s a gorgeous community and great amenities and a warm staff.

– Jason

A product of Barton Publications | 17

Solve your problems with pro storage

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ince 1981, Morningstar has been a leader in advancing what the world thinks of as storage as it has been solving its customers’ household, business and recreational storage needs.

The company aims to build quality public self-storage facilities unequaled in cleanliness, safety, appearance and in a variety of sizes. Morningstar is able to deliver exceptional customer service due to its well-trained and competent staff and also provides an enjoyable work environment for employees.

“Whether you need a place to store your family’s book collection, files and records from your office, or your ski boat that needs a home when it’s not in the water, we have the right solution for you,” a Morningstar spokesperson said.

Morningstar Storage is owned and operated by Morningstar Properties LLC, a vertically integrated developer, operator and owner of real estate products, focused primarily on self-storage and marinas. Since 1981, the company has acquired, developed and operated more than 150 self-storage projects across the country, totaling more than 10 million square feet. The company’s growth is funded through Blue Doors Storage Funds, Morningstar’s private equity vehicles investing in the acquisition and development assets.

Reanna Kavanaugh is the property manager at Morningstar Storage of Buda. Kavanaugh started her career with Morningstar in September 2011 as an assistant manager in an East Texas location, during

which time she showed herself to be a perfect fit as a property manager. She has since relocated to Central Texas to manage the Buda location. She has shown determination, dedication, commitment and perseverance in her time with Morningstar. Kavanaugh is a member with the Buda Area Chamber of Commerce, volunteers at local women and children shelters, actively participates in the Buda community and says that she loves what she does for the community and Morningstar.

“At Morningstar, we love what we do and sure hope it shows,” the company spokesperson said. Morningstar employees live in the communities where they work and strongly believe in giving back to those communities. Every

Morningstar location is encouraged to donate five percent of its storage units to local nonprofit and community organizations.

Morningstar locations are approachable and available – that’s why they offer 24/7 secure access.

“You’re welcome at Morningstar whether you’re coming or going at 2 p.m. or 2 a.m. We view customer service not as a service, but as a relationship. We are not clerks, cashiers, hand-shakers or baby-kissers. We are listeners, empathizers, motivators and friends. We remember names and we always call back. We are that friend with the free truck you can borrow to move your stuff,” the company spokesperson said.

“There is storage, and then there is Morningstar.

We strive to be better.”

For All Your Banking Needs...

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Find innovation at Premier Pools & Spas

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ith more than 40 individually owned and operated locations worldwide and over 50,000 pools built, Premier Pools & Spas is the nation’s largest swimming pool contractor. The company’s outstanding partnerships have empowered it to maintain the best product pricing, unavailable to anyone else in the industry and allowed it to pass the savings onto its customers.

Since 1988, Premier Pools & Spas has been leading the way and revolutionizing the swimming pool industry by bringing on new technology, as well as adapting techniques in order to efficiently and profitably manage operations. The

team at Premier Pools & Spas is known for raising the bar in both the quality of construction and a customer’s buying experience.

The Austin Premier Pools & Spas team is happy to

assist anyone interested in a backyard renovation, and no project is too big – or too small.

For more information visit www.ppas.com or call Brady & Amy Baird at 512539-9167 for a free estimate.

A product of Barton Publications | 19

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Taking on outdoor power like a Bear

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he automotive industry has been in the family for longtime Buda resident and business owner Jim Arnold.

Back in 1939, Arnold’s grandparents, Marnie and Gene Arnold, opened the Arnold Oil Company in Corpus Christi, which supplied automotive products to customers.

Roughly 37 years later, Jim Arnold, a graduate of Baylor University and a successful college football player, made his way to Corpus Christi to work in the family business.

But Arnold soon realized an opportunity to expand operations and made a move to open the Arnold Oil Company on East 6th street in Austin in 1977.

Forty years later and 34 locations across Texas, including A-Line Auto Parts and

Outdoor Power Equipment in Buda, Arnold’s company has expanded, but the same commitment to “get the job done right” remains.

At A-Line Outdoor Power Equipment in Buda, services provided are outdoor power small engine sales, parts and service, along with commercial and residential services.

A-Line can service and repair most makes and models of outdoor power equipment for the lawn and garden, including chainsaws, riding lawnmowers, blowers and trimmers and much more.

In addition, the business is also an authorized distributor of Scag, Cub Cadet, STIHL, YETI and various

other brands.

A-Line is a locally owned business that has been involved in outdoor power for eight years. The outdoor power business is located next to its auto parts location in Buda, and within the same building in its Dripping Springs location.

Because of this, A-Line can also help supply customers with just about any part they seek to get their vehicle going.

“We are the one stop shop for all of your outdoor power needs,” said a A-Line representative. The business also works with many manfuactuers and has access to almost any brand of equipment and parts to complete the job.

More brands and more growth are factors A-Line believes will go to support customers in the future.

David Weekley Homeowners Matt, Gindryska, Jaslene & Adrianna Gebhardt

We know even the smallest requests are a big deal.

StoneRidge From the $225s 512-821-8881

At David Weekley Homes, creating your ultimate home is about having a personal Team that puts your dreams, desires and requests above all else. Our Team is deeply committed to making sure your family has the best possible experience – even before you move in. That’s The Weekley Way!

Ask about special incentives!

Cypress Forest Executive and Imagination Collections From the $250s 512-821- 8824

See a David Weekley Homes Sales Consultant for details. Prices, plans, dimensions, features, specifications, materials, and availability of homes or communities are subject to change without notice or obligation. Illustrations are artist’s depictions only and may differ from completed improvements. Copyright © 2017 David Weekley Homes - All Rights Reserved. Austin, TX (AUSA86503)

A product of Barton Publications | 21

Barton Publications grows with

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arton Publications, which includes the Hays Free Press, the News-Dispatch is the oldest continuously family-run business in north Hays County.

in 1984.

Bob Barton died in 2013, having passed the reins of the business to his daughter-inlaw, Cyndy Slovak-Barton, a few years earlier.

But his influence continues to this day.

THE HISTORY Barton believed in change.

The Hays Free Press started He moved the newspaper several times, combined it as the Kyle News in 1903 with other newspapers over and just celebrated its 113th the years, and tried new birthday. products.

Originally founded by The Hays Free Press, Thomas Fletcher Harwell, founded as the Kyle News, the Kyle News was a family has carried the names and/ venture. It covered events or combined with other throughout the county, but newspapers – Hays County was based in north Hays County. Harwell’s son, Turner, Citizen, Austin Sun, Onion Creek Free Press, River City took over the business and worked at the Kyle News until Sun, Hays County Free Press, The Chautauquan and more. it was purchased by Bob The character of the Barton and Moe Johnson in newspaper has been formed 1954. Turner continued to

by Bob Barton – always a help on the newspaper until maverick when it came to his death 40 years later. newspapers. He advocated Barton and Johnson ran the Kyle News while they were for sometimes unpopular beliefs – voting rights for both in college at Southwest Texas Teachers College. Their minorities, desegregation of schools and more. friends and spouses took Because of the newspaper’s up the call, with Wynette insistence on correctness, the Barton, Bob’s spouse, then a Hays Free Press has excelled junior in college, serving as as a strong community news editor. Reporter Pete Guttery, 21, was a sophomore newspaper. The office walls at its Kyle headquarters are in college at the time and lined with plaques awarded studying journalism. The business manager was 19, the to it by the Texas Press sports editor 17, the printer’s Association, the National Newspaper Association, the devil 16 and the Linotype Inland Press Association, operator a mere 13. The South Texas Press Association average age of the staff? 19.

Johnson decided to get out and more.

Expanding its reach into of the business in a few years the Dripping Springs and and pursue his career in Wimberley areas, Barton teaching and later in school Publications purchased administration. He traded his share of the business for a the News-Dispatch from Dale and Joyce Roberson box of cigars. almost three years ago. The Johnson did go on with Robersons worked for the his education career and Hays Free Press for years became the superintendent before going into their own of Hays CISD – during its newspaper venture, the consolidation and into the expansion before he retired News-Dispatch.

HaysFreePress.com

www.

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Barton Publications publisher Cyndy Barton accepts an Envision Central Texas Revitalization award from representative Al Gmitter after the construction of a multi-use building downtown that is also the headquarters for the Hays Free Press.

Barton Publications is a reflection its staff. Many of its former employees have gone on to bigger jobs – the Wall Street Journal, Newsweek Magazine, Houston Post, USA Today, the Charlotte Observer, Reuters News Service. But when the call goes out for a “family reunion,” these employees come flooding back, renewing old friendships, again finding

their common thread – small weekly newspapers covering Hays County.

It is this sense of family and camaraderie that makes the Barton Publications what it is today. Our family of publications includes the Hays Free Press, the largest circulation weekly newspaper in Hays County, along with the News-Dispatch.

www.HaysNewsDispatch.com

th Hays County We also have a combined website covering everything from the Hays/Travis county line to San Marcos, various chamber publications, including visitors guides and maps, and special editions aimed at schools, sports, young families, business and much more – haysfreepress. com and haysnewsdispatch. com.

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION Barton Publications and the Hays Free Press always seems to be “on the move.”

When the Harwell family established it in 1903, its offices were located facing the railroad tracks in Kyle, along Front Street.

Since then, it has moved – to San Marcos (near Cheatham Street Warehouse), to Manchaca, to Buda (in the buildings now housing Raby’s Roots and then in Frasier Harris’ current pottery shop), to Mountain City (where Hill Country Driving School

and Arrowhead Bicycles are currently located on FM 2770), to downtown Kyle again.

The newest location also happens to be Kyle’s first privately built two-story building in downtown Kyle.

Built to looked like the old building it replaced – Teddlie’s Pharmacy, the BartonWord building at the corner of Center and Main streets includes not only the office of the Hays Free Press, but also the law office for Tate Saunders and four apartments above which overlook the historic Kyle city hall park.

In addition to the main headquarters in Kyle, its sister publication, the NewsDispatch, has an office in Dripping Springs.

WHY IS BARTON PUBLICATIONS GROWING?

Maybe it’s the products, which are hyper-local.

When alarms go off at schools, local residents turn to the Hays Free Press and News-Dispatch website to find out what has happened.

When a team goes to the state playoffs, those not able to attend follow the newspapers’ twitter feeds, @haysfreepress, @hfprebelsports, @ hfplobosports, and @ NEWS_ DISPATCH. When someone needs information about doctors, they pick up the newspaper’s medical guide, which lists local physicians and their offices and facilities.

When voters want to know about bonds or candidates or what city hall or the local school board is up to, they pick up the weekly newspaper, which has stands and point-of-sale kiosks all over Buda, Kyle, Dripping Springs and Wimberley.

Public notices are run in the Hays Free Press and the News-Dispatch by many institutions – Hays CISD, Kyle, Buda, Wimberley, Dripping Springs, DSISD, Hays County, Uhland, Mountain City, Niederwald, Creedmoor, and attorneys galore – because they know that the newspaper reaches the people they need – informed and involved.

WHAT’S IN THE FUTURE?

There are always changes being made ... that’s the nature of the news business.

An improved mobile website?

In the works. Graphic design services? At the ready. Photos for sale, magazines, inserts, advertising design and production? The staff of the Hays Free Press is prepared for whatever businesses need.

Browse and Buy Photos

at www.HaysFreePress.com or www.HaysNewsDispatch.com Just follow the Photos link.

Call us if you want to talk – about marketing, about stories, about photography, about video – you can reach Barton Publications at 512-268-7862.

A product of Barton Publications | 23

Hays Free Press BUDA • KYLE • EASTERN HAYS COUNTY

News-Dispatch DRIPPING SPRINGS • WIMBERLEY • WESTERN HAYS COUNTY

Subscribe to your local newspaper to stay up to date on breaking local news, city council meetings, high school sports, community events, business developments and more. Call (512) 268-7862 or email paper@haysfreepress. com to start receiving the Hays Free Press or News-Dispatch every week. Subscriptions start at only $32 a year.

Barton Publications, Inc.

(512) 268-7862

|

113 W. Center Street, Kyle TX 78640 Subscriptions: paper@haysfreepress.com | Advertising: tracy@haysfreepress.com News tips: news@haysfreepress.com