HAYS COUNTY
ECHO SUMMER 2019
INSIDE
• Used Car Buying Guide • Locals remember their first car • Hays CISD offers opportunities with Auto Tech program • A brief history of the Allen Street namesake
photo by Moses Leos III
HAYS COUNTY
ECHO is published monthly by Barton Publications, Inc 113 W. Center St., Kyle, TX Contents © February 2018. Publisher Cyndy Slovak–Barton Editor Moses Leos III Graphics Director David White Contributing Writers Moses Leos III Exsar Arguello Katie Burrell David White
Contributing Photographers Moses Leos III Exsar Arguello Katie Burrell David White Distribution David White Marketing Tracy Mack Jim Darby Teresa Starr Office Manager Verna Wommack For advertising information, please contact our sales department at 512–268–7862. See the Hays County Echo online for free at www.HaysFreePress.com
EDITOR’S NOTE
Get your motor runnin... O
f all the ways people can express their freedom, the ability to jump in a car and drive anywhere ranks high atop the list. Recall that moment when you got the keys to your first car or truck. It didn’t matter if it was a sour lemon or a souped up dream machine. Hearing those keys jingle and jangle for the first time was practically music to the ears. For many, cars and trucks are an essentially a way of life, or perhaps even a means for them to work to support their families. That’s why we at the Hays County Echo, this month, place our focus on the automotive industry and how it impacts us all. In this edition, you’ll find
a plethora of tips and tricks on purchasing vehicles, including what to look for in a used car and how to make sure you’re getting the most bang for you buck. For parents of teens, our Echo also dives into what to look for when purchasing a vehicle for your first-year driver. We then dive into how Hays CISD is educating the next generation of auto mechanics through the Auto Technology course offered through the district’s Career and Technical Education (CTE).
Be sure to check out reporter Exsar Arguello’s story on a group that’s not shy in flexing their American Chrome muscle, while also giving back to their communities. Our publication then turned to some of our readers who shared memories of their first vehicles and the impact it had on them. We’ll also take you back in time in this edition as David White explores the history behind the Allen family in our “What’s in a Name?” series. Whether you’re looking to find your next ride, or just checking out the sweet muscle cars, we hope this edition appeals to you. Thanks for reading and start your engines, Moses Leos III Editor
INSIDE Buying a car?
Used car buying tips........................................................ 4-12
Beat the summer heat
Summer maintenance tip from Tim Warmington......................13
Turning over a new wrench
Hays CISD opens doors through Auto Tech....................... 14
Cool as chrome
Gearheads give back as they flex their American muscle.....16
My first car
People tell us what they remember about their first car.....18-20
Service Directory
Find reliable services in your area....................................... 21
What’s in a name?
A brief history of Allen Street namesake............................. 22
2 | Hays County Echo | SUMMER 2019
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Buying a car? Here is a checklist of tips to consider when buying a used vehicle.
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A teen’s first vehicle
W
hen your teenager passes his/her driving test, you may find yourself tasked with finding a safe and reliable used vehicle. Luckily, in recent years, auto manufacturers have taken great strides in safety features, some even intended for new drivers. Try not to become overwhelmed or stressed out when searching for an automobile. The experience should be cherished as it celebrates a huge milestone for your child, one they will likely remember forever. With a little research and proper planning, it can be a joyous journey you take together.
SET STANDARDS Owning a vehicle is a big responsibility, especially for a teenager. Go over the basics of regular maintenance, driving expectations and rules you enforce. Children aren’t the only ones required to be
responsible. Before buying a used car, make sure it is financially feasible. Set a budget for the vehicle and stick to it, especially if you will be making payments. Don’t forget that a new addition to the garage will carry expenses of insurance and registration fees.
party, you can find a report with the VIN. An inspection from a trusted mechanic should also be performed. Warranty: Ask the dealership about available warranties. Usually, certified pre-owned vehicles will offer a guarantee.
NEW VS. USED
SAFETY FEATURES
While your teenager would surely love to own a vehicle right off the factory line, it probably isn’t practical or feasible for many budgets. So, if you think a used vehicle would make a better companion, here are some things to consider during your search. Research: Take advantage of safety ratings and reviews of different models from trusted sources like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Check its past: If buying from a dealership, ask them for a copy of the vehicle’s history report. If purchasing through a private
Safety is first for teenage drivers. A sobering statistic from the American Academy of Pediatrics states teens make up seven percent of drivers involved in fatal crashes; 13 percent of those were distracted by cell phones at the time. In addition to features like side airbags, crash avoidance technology and seat belt reminders, some vehicles use innovations to help parents set boundaries and monitor their teen driver’s behavior. Ask your dealership about vehicles with software which allow you to choose a speed limit, mute audio and even receive a driving report card.
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Buying a retired fleet vehicle For many, destinations to buy a used vehicle include the dealership, an independent lot or through a private party. One often overlooked avenue, is retired fleet vehicles. There are plenty of advantages of making this type of purchase. Fleet vehicles aren’t always heavy-duty options used for commercial purposes. In this department, you can also find well-maintained passenger vehicles where their previous occupant used it as a daily driver. If you are in the market for a used vehicle, don’t forget to add these hidden jewels to your shopping list. Here are a few types of cars you may come across.
USED RENTAL CARS This may be the most common fleet vehicle you will
come across in sales’ ads. While they are typically held to the highest maintenance standard of other options in this class, an issue with high mileage is typically prevalent. There is also the question of how well previous drivers treated the vehicle while it was in their possession. Make sure to inspect the interior and exterior for signs of damage and any warning lights on the dashboard. Ask the salesperson about a warranty; many rental companies offer guarantees on its inventory.
COMPANY CARS Usually, businesses will give vehicles to those who are required to travel for work. The previous owner could have been an outside sales rep or a traveling executive. Retired company vehicles are also well-maintained and typically treated as more of a personal car than a rental.
ment fleets or as dealerships move the vehicles they kept as loaners for customers or demo models.
MAKING THE PURCHASE
Buying a retired fleet vehicle is similar to buying a used car from a dealership. You should have financing covered before making an offer, do your research on the model and get an inspection from a trusted OTHER CARS mechanic. You may also find great deals It is also crucial to investigate at public auctions when muthe vehicle’s history to make nicipalities refresh their govern- sure it was well cared for.
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Finding the best dealership Buying used doesn’t tie you down to a particular dealership as lots will have options from numerous manufacturers. The car-buying experience can be greatly enhanced by doing business with a dealer who makes you feel comfortable, works with your budget and ensures you make a good decision in your vehicle purchase. Don’t rush to the first dealership you come across, instead do your research on their business practices before visiting the lot.
REPUTATION It’s easy to find out a dealership’s reputation by using online resources. Check out their online reviews or ask friends who may have bought from them in the past. Of course, great feedback is important to see when you are researching
experiences customers have. Additionally, a good indicator as to how seriously they take consumer satisfaction is analyzing how they react to negative criticism. Dealers with great customer service tendencies will reach out to those with issues and invite them to discuss options to alleviate them.
MEET THE STAFF Make the time to visit the lot even if you don’t have an intention of making a purchase that day. You can get a good idea of how comfortable you feel with the sales staff and their reaction when you inform them you are only looking. If they become uninterested or pushy to change your mind, your experience will likely be more fruitful at a different location. On the other hand, if they are eager to show you around the used lot with enthusiasm, they could be the perfect fit.
Get your own inspection Obviously, before you invest in a used car, you should have it inspected to ensure it is mechanically sound. An expert can comb through important engine and transmission components and get an idea of how the vehicle was cared for. Remember, when buying used, it is sometimes sold without a guarantee, so you will be left to foot the repair bill. It’s important to find repairs that are required to negotiate the asking price or even save yourself from an expensive fix down the road. Here are some things to test on the dealership lot or before buying from a private seller.
and the exterior using the key fob. If the problem lies in the remote, negotiate picking up a spare as purchasing a replacement can be expensive.
WORKING LIGHTS Have a friend or your salesperson get in the vehicle and test the function of each light. Repairs may not be as simple as replacing a bulb. Other components include wiring sockets, pricey ballasts on HID lights and can even reveal an electronic issue with the computer. Don’t forget to check the hazards, too.
HEATING AND A/C
POWER WINDOWS AND LOCKS
When buying during the spring, it can be easy to overGet in the cabin and operate look the heating and air syseach window from all switchtem as outdoor temperatures es. If you notice they are slug- are typically mild. However, gish, a repair may be immion your test drive, make sure nent. Power windows rely on to test the function of each. a motor, regulator and switch If the air doesn’t feel cool to perform. Replacing these enough, it could be as simple components can be labor as the vehicle being low on intensive on many vehicles. refrigerant or could lead to You will also need to test a complex problem with the power locks from inside expensive components. When
heat is lacking or not operating correctly, there may be issues with several actuators depended on to direct the air’s path or another problem with
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Avoid the
upside down Owing more than your car is worth can cripple your financial stability if something goes wrong. When setting a budget for a used vehicle, it’s important to be honest with what you can afford. Don’t allow yourself to make a bad decision based on features or the luxury of a model on the lot. Here are some tips to keep yourself out of negative equity from America’s Debt Help Organization.
USING A TRADE IN If you are already making payments on your vehicle, using it as a trade-in can throw you into an undesirable situation. Many auto dealers make claims they will pay off a loan and get you in the car of your dreams. Sounds enticing, right? Most of the time, this promotion means a dealer will pay
the difference of what is owed versus the value of a vehicle. The price they pay will roll over into a new loan, possibly with a higher interest rate. While some circumstances may lower your monthly payment, adding negative equity onto another loan will put you in deeper debt. If you are in a situation where a purchase is a necessity, you should consider selling the vehicle to a private party rather than trading. Keep in mind, if there is still a balance on your obligations, you must
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be prepared to make up the difference out of pocket.
AVOIDING THE SITUATION The best way to avoid becoming upside down is by purchasing a used vehicle that makes sense financially. According to the ADHO, these are the most common ways people find themselves in trouble with their loans. Inadequate research: Make sure to find out the cost of similar models of the vehicle you are considering. You may find
an option without extravagant features for a smaller price. No down payment: Vehicles depreciate at a staggering pace; about 50 percent by its third year. You should prepare to have a significant down payment ready so the payments can keep pace with the devaluation. Unneeded options: The sunroof or convertible top may seem like a necessary option for your used car, but features can significantly impact a vehicle’s asking price.
On behalf of our entire staff, please accept our condolences on the passing of your loved one. When you are ready, I would be honored to assist you in creating a monument that will express your love for years to come.
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Check reliability ratings When you’re creating a usedcar checklist, don’t forget to add reliability to the must-have section. You can take advantage of many resources to ensure the next vehicle you add to your garage won’t let you down.
Once you have a few different models in mind, check out their ratings from trusted sources like Consumer Reports and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Both do a good job reporting and testing for safety, performance and features. If you find a certain generation of vehicle is more apt to mechanical problems or recalls, you can avoid a financial disaster by crossing it off your list. When looking for reliability and the function of vehicle, pay special attention to these factors.
ELECTRONIC PROBLEMS Modern vehicles require a complex system of electronics to relay important
information from drivetrain elements to the computer. With all the innovative features and safety warnings comes the opportunity for these expensive parts to fail. In a time where nearly every component is connected to the electrical system, diagnosing problems and correcting the issue can be labor intensive. Keep in mind, these repairs may also require knowledge from specialized mechanics at dealerships as an independent shop may not have the training for the complex solution.
RECALLS According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a recall is issued when the group or a
10 | Hays County Echo | SUMMER 2019
manufacturer determines that a vehicle, equipment, car seat or tire creates an unreasonable safety risk of fails to meet minimum safety standards. Before investing in a used vehicle, research the recalls it has been involved in and be sure problems have been resolved. Enter a VIN into a tool at safercar.gov to get a breakdown on a car’s history.
Minor engine: Tests for computer performance, mounts, leaks or knocking tendencies. Major engine: Includes rebuilds or replacement, cylinder head integrity and timing chains or belts. Minor transmission: Looks at gear selectors and linkage issues, leaks, sensors and slipping. Major transmission: Analyzes rebuilds or replacement ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION and the torque converter performance. Once you buy a vehicle When researching reliabiloutside of its manufacturer ity issues, be sure to deterwarranty, expensive drivemine when these problems train components become your responsibility. Here are a begin to show themselves. If a used vehicle is approaching few ways Consumer Reports the mileage that issues are rates engine and transmiscommon, it’s best to consider sion reliability when declaring a vehicle’s performance. a different model.
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It’s not uncommon for someone to find a great deal on a used car cross state lines. Unfortunately, the process may require extra steps than buying locally. Make sure to research your local laws on bringing home an out-of-state vehicle to avoid finding yourself in legal trouble.
Buying in a different state The task of acquiring insurance, registration and paying taxes can be different between areas. To make sure everything is performed properly, it’s a good idea to only make this type of purchase from a trusted source, like a dealership. Check out the factors to consider before buying an out-of-state used vehicle.
EMISSIONS There are many states who enforce strict emission regulations, and there are locations who don’t. For instance, California requires the strictest air-quality standards in the nation, set by the California Air Resources Board. Several other states have followed their lead and some automakers manufacture their vehicles so they can be sold anywhere. If you purchase a non-CARB compliant car and plan to register it in a CARB state, you may run into problems. Take the time to research regulations from each area involved before buying a vehicle that isn’t compliant. The Environmental Protection Agency says you can identify the emissions tag of light-duty automobiles, on a label under the hood or in the engine compartment. 12 | Hays County Echo | SUMMER 2019
Car sales tax in Texas is 6.25%. Oklahoma, our neighbor to the north, only has a 3.25% sales tax. TAXES Arkansas has a 6.5% sales tax while Louisiana has a 4% tax. However, when buying a car in Some Louisiana, you’ll have to pay additional local sales people tax that can be up to 6%. In New Mexico, where there is a 3% think Motor Vehicle Excise tax, you’re also required to pay state, they can get county and city taxes which can add up to nearly 8%. around paying Bottom line: every state has a different taxing structure the higher taxes and it’s worth the homework to of their local area find out all the variables by purchasing from that effect the final another state. However, sales price of the car buyers pay the sales tax of the vehicle.
state where it is registered, not where it is bought. A perk to buying from a reputable dealership is they will typically collect the appropriate amount of tax and distribute it to the proper venue. When using a private party, it is your responsibility to make the correct payment at the Department of Motor Vehicles.
REGISTRATION If you plan to drive an out-of-state vehicle back home, it’s imperative that it is temporarily registered. Contact the dealership you will be buying from to ensure they are able to provide you with the proper registration after the sale.
TIP FROM TIM:
Beat the summer heat With the summer season approaching, there are a few things residents can do to keep their vehicles running in tip-top shape. One key thing is checking vehicles for enough coolant, properly running AC fans
and general tire maintenance. You need to check these things at least every two years. You don’t want to be stuck out there on the highway without these. Checking up on those things can save drivers money later on by addressing problems a car may have before the heat arrives. Customers should also get their tires rotated around this time of year. More pressure on tires with the increasing heat can lead to low tire pressure and even torn-up, shredded tires. We’re busy about the same amount all year, but now is a good time for tire rotations.
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Turning over a new wrench Hays CISD opens doors through Auto Tech program BY MOSES LEOS III The clinks and clanks of an automotive garage in action is a welcome sound to the ears of Hays CISD sophomore and aspiring mechanic Mark Alejandro.
Having been bit by the auto repair bug at an early age, Alejandro hopes to one day follow in the footsteps of his grandfather, also a mechanic, who instilled in his grandson the passion to tinker with vehicles. “He told me to watch him so
I would know what he was doing,” Alejandro said. “Because one day, if I wanted to be a mechanic, I would know what to do.” Through automotive technology (AutoTech) courses offered by Hays CISD’s Career
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and Technical Education (CTE), Alejandro and countless others just like him can obtain the certifications and knowledge necessary to make their dreams come true. Paul Anderlitch, who has helmed Hays CISD’s AutoTech
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program for 19 years, said the program teaches students the basics of automotive knowledge, such as how to change a tire or perform an oil change, as well as learning how to diagnose and fix more complicated technical issues. All of it, no matter basic or advanced, could help students save money down the road by teaching them how to perform routine fixes, Anderlitch said. “They can save a ton of money on basic stuff,” Anderlitch said. Sophomore Autumn Sparks, who has been in the AutoTech program for two years, said getting hands-on with learning basic automotive skills isn’t too complicated. While there are some challenges, learning new skills is “interesting.” “It’s a good opportunity for those who want to take auto mechanics further into their lives,” Sparks said. “It’s a good skill to have and if you want to go further in this career, it’s a good starting point.” More advanced students, or those who plan to make a career in the automotive
in the auto mechanic field beyond high school. Being able to succeed in a field that’s typically male dominated is also something she hopes to accomplish, too. “There’s good money out there after high school,” Lagunas said. As the district continues to grow, so does interest in AutoTech, Anderlitch said. Currently, Hays CISD’s AutoTech program is taught only at Hays High. Lehman industry, often seek to become median annual wage for auHigh students who wish to take Automotive Service Excellence tomotive service technicians (ASE) certified, which Anderand mechanics was $40,710 in AutoTech are bussed from that litch said offers a “foot in the May 2018. The highest percent campus to Hays every day. That will change in August door” to the automotive indus- in the field earned close to when Hays CISD opens Autotry. In order to do so, students $67,000 annually. Tech facilities at Lehman High must pass a rigorous college Alexandra Lagunas, a Hays and Johnson High, which were level exam that covers all asCISD sophomore, said she’s pects of vehicle maintenance discovered that some positions both part of the district’s 2018 $250 million bond. Anderlitch and diagnostic testing. at local dealerships pay auto Anderlitch said becoming technicians $9,000 per month. said those new facilities will open the program to many ASE certified can boost a stu“The industry doesn’t need dent’s resume when applying ‘shade-tree mechanics,’” Ander- more students in the future. “We have too many people for auto diagnostic technician litch said. “They need someone going to four-year colleges, jobs. It can also give students who can diagnose and repair.” and not enough getting into the chance at potentially high Lagunas, who entered the trades and turning wrenches,” paying positions in a field that AutoTech program in her Anderlitch said. “Not just meis in constant need of skilled freshman year, said it’s fun to chanics, but electricians and workers. get into the shop and working plumbers. People break stuff According to the U.S. Buwith the equipment. Lagunas and they’ll want it fixed.” reau of Labor Statistics, the hopes to continue working
Hays CISD currently only has Auto Tech at the Hays High campus, but in August there will be AutoTech facilities at Lehman High and Johnson High, which were both part of the district’s 2018 $250 million bond. Anderlitch said those new facilities will open the program to many more students in the future.
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COOL AS CHROME Gearheads give back as they flex their American muscle BY EXSAR ARGUELLO For a group of Hays County friends, the love of American 1967 CHEVY IMPALA muscle cars goes far beyond the nuts and bolts that hold their dream machines togeth- Gearhead Larry Larkin (below) was kind enough to bring his 1967 Chevy Impala to fellow Gearhead Jim er. Lapaso’s garage in Kyle where Lapaso has several classic and unique cars of his own that he likes to cruise The Buda Gearheads, com- around town in. (photos by Exsar Arguello) prised of 50 core members, heads across the nation. have dedicated their lives to “It all comes from the surf keeping the tradition of Amerand car culture from when ican muscle car power alive we were kids,” said Gearhead through charity, camaraderie member Mark Gustafson. and building classic hotrods. “Chicks liked cars. It was the And nearly two decades cool thing to be a part of. We since its creation, founder didn’t have the internet. We Larry Larkin marvels at how cruised and worked on cars.” much the organization has Every member of the orgrown. The Gearheads supply ganization has a story about a network of car enthusiasts what got them addicted to willing to assist fellow memclassic cars. Joe Beyer vividbers in all their classic car ly remembers watching the needs. movie “American Graffiti” in “We wanted the organizathe eighth grade. The film, tion to really be a real group, made in the 1970s, chronicles so we registered with the State the burgeoning hot rod culof Texas and became a 501 ture in the mid-1950s, which c4 nonprofit,” Larkin said. was an influence to many. “Now, we help sponsor Austin But it wasn’t just cars and Community College (ACC) “It all comes from the surf and car culture from movies. Musical acts like The students with scholarships and host our yearly car show when we were kids. Chicks liked cars. It was Beach Boys, Led Zeppelin and Jimi Hendrix all bought into that brings hundreds.” the cool thing to be a part of. We didn’t have the rebellious, rock, punk and The success of the Gearheads’ annual car show at Cathe internet. We cruised and worked on cars.” surf culture of the day. “We all joke around with bela’s in Buda brought in cash each other and get in the to the organization, which led –Mark Gustafson, Gearhead member occasional arguments. But at leadership to decide that the the end of the day, we’re all money needed to go towards family,” Beyer said. “And it mechanics, welders and other ey since the Gearheads began. what we’re trying to keep.” doesn’t matter if you’re white, “It’s a dying culture, and Sherman makes his living car builders at Austin Combrown, green with antennas, I do believe it will die,” said fixing, selling and building munity College. Gearhead David Sherman. American muscle cars, which male or female. We welcome Larkin estimates the oranyone who wants to keep “You don’t see a lot of young has expanded his contact ganization has given nearly this culture alive.” book to include fellow gear$100,000 in scholarship mon- kids getting into it, but that’s 16 | Hays County Echo | SUMMER 2019
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1969 AMERICAN MOTORS AMX A SKILL FOR MECHANICS, BUT NOT FOR SCHOOL Kyle resident Jim Lapaso has been involved with Buda Gearheads, often in the shadows of the organization. Lapaso said he may not attend all of the group’s meetings, but supports the mission. Nestled away in the corner of Lapaso’s property is a workshop filled with spare car parts that he has collected over a lifetime. And under the cover of various sheets in the shop sleep a half dozen classic cars Lapaso has built with his two hands. A master craftsman, Lapaso has built nine cars in the past decade, adding to an impressive resume of construction spanning a lifetime.
“I was never good at school and my dyslexia made working in a classroom rather difficult for me,” Lapaso said. “But I was always good with my hands and building things. From baby carriages to skyscrapers…I’ve built it all.” Lapaso said like many of the other Gearheads, he found comfort working with what he was good at. It may not have been the conventional route of attending school like society pushed on him, but that’s okay. “At the end of the day, building these cars is fun, an escape for us,” Lapaso said. “But nothing is more important than the family and friends you build doing this. We all support each other because of our love for cars. And that’s what it’s all about.”
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Located in the San Marcos Square Jim Lapaso shows off one of his unique car designs that has an open cabin and exposed engine, but here he’s trying out a new body for it. Above is a 1969 American Motors AMX which is also part of Lapaso’s collection.
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My First Car When you ask most people what their first car was, the answer usually comes with a flurry of memories of a time in their lives that represented freedom and independence. Hays County Echo staffers asked a number of people in the community what their first car was and what they liked or disliked about it. Below are their responses with stock images that closely compare to those vehicles that will forever live in their memories.
JORDAN BARRON
First car was a 2008 burnt-orange Honda Element. Barron drove it as a senior attending Bowie High School, but when he got accepted to Oklahoma University, he realized he had to trade it in for a different color. “It was burnt-orange with Texas plates. I didn’t want to get eggs thrown at it.”
DAVID JOHNSON
First car was a blue 1963 Chevy Corvair. “I got teased a lot for driving that car… I bought it from my brother for $1 because it needed a transmission.” Johnson said his friends would go up to his car and pretend to kick it and say “I want my quarters back,” because it looked like a soda machine due to the vents in back. Johnson also referred to it as his “rubber band car” because the serpentine belt went around the fan and the alternator, “so if the belt went out, it just stopped.”
STEPHANIE VARGAS
First car was a 2002 Mitsubishi Montero. “I loved how reliable it was,” Vargas said. The car was passed down to her from her parents which also made it very special to her.
MARY VIGIL
First car was a 1985 Isuzu Trooper. “It didn’t go above 55 and it would vibrate really bad if I tried to drive it any faster… I think that’s what my dad liked about it. I couldn’t go very fast or very far.” She only had the Trooper for 3 months before it died in the Arby’s parking lot where she worked.
NATHAN RODRIGUEZ
First car was a 2005 red Chevy 1500 supercab. “It was a good truck,” Hernandez said, but what he really liked about it was the “sweet sound system.”
DANIELLA ARRIAGA
ART AND CLAUDIA RAMOS
Art’s first car was a 1974 Ford Mustang hatchback. “It was nice. I sold it for $300 because the transmission went out. Back then, $300 was a lot of money. But I could have gotten more for it today.” Claudia’s first car was a 1997 Honda Accord. “I got it right out of high school. I remember the gold color and it was brand new, right off the lot. I still remember that new car smell.”
18 | Hays County Echo | SUMMER 2019
First car was a 2000 Dodge Ram. “The truck was handed down from my dad. It was scary and I didn’t want to drive it. It was huge. There was a lot of business cards and pens from my dad’s paint business. I didn’t drive it a lot. It sat on the driveway for a long time. There was nothing too magical about it.”
JULIAN HERNANDEZ
First car was a 1981 Toyota Tercel hatchback. “Yes, I remember my first car… It had no reverse and no third gear. Hernandez said he always had to have friends push it backward or use his foot to push it back. “What I liked about it though was it was very dependable… It started up every time.” He also like that it was a “beater” and he never had to worry about it getting scratched or dented.
TRACY MACK
First car was a 1979 blue Chevy Monza. “I purchased the brand new car when I was 15 years old, the summer before my sophomore year, with money I had saved up over the past few summers working on our farm growing vegetables and then selling them out of my dad’s pick-up truck bed on Hwy 87 north of Big Spring.”
CRAIG BARRON
First car was a 1973 mint green Mercury Montego with a 351 Windsor engine. “I was so proud of that car.” Barron bought it when he was 16 years old for $800 that he saved up from delivering newspapers. “I took girls on dates in that car. It was the first car the engine caught fire… good, good times.”
CYNDY SLOVAK-BARTON
First car was a 1964 Ford Fairlane. Barton remembers that the front seats didn’t lock in place. So if her siblings were in the back seat and she slammed on the brakes, they’d end up in front. Sometimes she’d do that just to keep them in line.
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GREG DEVONSHIRE
First car was a 1986 Nissan 300ZX. “The car had a 5-speed manual transmission and a T-Top. It was a cool ride. I’d take the T-Top off and cruised down the lake all the time. Made us feel older than we were.”
STELLA PAGE
First car was a 1973 Camaro.“I took it out of the show room when I was a young girl out of high school. I remember the long trips I took. But I didn’t know how to drive a stick shift (it was a manual transmission) before I got the car. I called my brother, who said if I wanted to get the car, he’d teach me how to drive it. So when I picked it up, I started learning how to drive a stick shift. I handed down the car to my brothers when I got my next vehicle.
DAVID MCGREGOR
First car was a 1979 AMC Concord. “They don’t make those cars anymore. It actually broke down a lot. But I learned how to work on cars with it. It broke down a lot, but it was fun. Everyone thinks their first car is awesome, until they get the next one.”
BRI MARTINEZ SARAH LEOS
First car was a 1989 Chevrolet Camaro. “It was a hand-me-down from both of my brothers. It was awesome. It was blue with silver stripes and a hood scoop and pins that kept the hood secured. Also had a nice bass system in the back. But for a while, I had to jump start it all the time. One day, I hit a mailbox, but didn’t tell my dad about it. I told him I had hit a possum. He fixed the jump-starting problem and it worked from then on.
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Hays County Echo Service Directory AIR CONDITIONING A&E Air Conditioning & Heating, LLC
Free furnace special, $500 off complete system or 15% off any repair by mentioning you saw us here. 512-312-9535 www.ae4cool.com
APC Service Pros, LLC
Air conditioning, heating, electrical, service, repair and installation. 512-410-7739 www.APCServicePros.com
NEMEC Heating and Air
Proudly serving Central Texas. Residential, commercial and after hours available. chris@nemecheatingandair.com 512–312–9081 or 512–789–5132
AUTOMOTIVE AMM Collision Center
Three great locations! Kyle: 21681 IH–35, 262–1013 Austin: 11740 Manchaca Rd., 292–1060 Dripping Springs: 3990 Hwy 290, 512–894–3888
Buda Automotive
You know us... by our reputation! Full service car & truck repair. 601 S. Loop 4 in Buda 512–295–2832
Central Garage, LLC
Complete Auto Repair, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. 20 Hwy. 290 West, Dripping Springs 512-894-4114 or 512-858-4252
COMPUTER SERVICE Hays Technical Services
Want help selecting the best value? Office systems not maintained? Did your kids or employees leave your computer useless? mike@haystech.com
CONSTRUCTION Deb Ray Homes
Honey-do list, drywall repair, clean dryer vent, leaking toilet, repairs for sale of home. Insured. Ray Brown, 325-248-5027 Ray@DebRayHomes.com DebRayHomes.com
Reliable Handyman
Painting, remodel & home repair, flooring & tile, carpentry, decks & fences, pressure washing, gutters, cleaning & repair, RV repair. Get your honey-do list done right. 512-618-0482, DHall45@yahoo.com
DIRT Rick-Rob Trucking
Loam, topsoil, sand, gravel, roadbase, asphalt millings, granite, compost mix. Tractor work available. Specializing in country driveways. 512-858-7952. robinnds@aol.com, www.rick-rob.com
FINANCIAL PLANNING Barton Financial Group
Zach Barton, 512-686-7589 107 S. Main St, Ste A, Kyle, Texas
GLASS Dynamic Glass
Commercial & residential. Contract glazing, storefronts, insulated glass, furniture tops, tempered glass, mirrors. Framed & frameless tub & shower enclosures. 512-312-2767 5360 Industrial Way Dr., Buda, TX shallmark@dynamicglass.com
LANDSCAPING Daniel Stone & Landscaping Supplies
We deliver. Grass: St. Augustine, Buffalo, Bermuda, Tifway. Chopped rock, patio rock, flagstone, drystack, gravel, river rock, mulch, sand and loam. 12015 Hwy 290 W, Cedar Valley, Austin. 512-288-8488.
Who Does Your Lawn
Call Jesse Reyna at 512-788-2180 or email apa6207@sbcglobal.net. Offering competitive pricing and superior service in the Manchaca, Buda, and Kyle area since 2010. Taking care of all lawn needs so you can play. Mowing, trimming, edging, debris removal, flower bed maintenance
LEGAL SERVICES 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
PAINTING 699 Painting and More
Interior and exterior painting. Siding & rotten wood replacement. Sheet rock repairs. Wallpaper removal & wall texture. Pressure washing. Insured & References available, 512-699-0441.
PLUMBING Prince Plumbing Company
Residential repair, remodeling, water heaters, sewer maintenance, slab & gas leak repair. 20 years experience, family owned and operated. 512–312–0710
POOL SERVICE G&S Pool and Spa Service
Serving South Austin, Dripping Springs, Driftwood, Kyle and Buda since 1994. 512–326–4695. www.gspoolspa.com
High Tide Pool Service
Over 10 years cleaning and maintaining pools. Drain & clean, pressure washing, full service repairs, replastering. Free estimates, call Keith Miller at 512 965-3465.
REMODELING Wild West Remodeling
No job too small or too big! Kitchen/bath remodels, painting, tile, siding, decks, trim, door & window replacements, drywall repair, electrical and plumbing. Curtis Dorsett, 512–402–4704
ROOFING 4M Roofing
I repair roof leaks. Call 512-299-8949
Area Roofing Company
Serving Hays County. Residential & Commercial. Free estimates. Insurance claims welcome. Ron Johnson, owner. 512–312–5050
Discount Roofing USA
Roofing & repair, insulated siding, energy-efficient upgrades, gutters & protection. Veteran owned & operated. Austin, TX. 512-4881810. brian@discountroof.com
Ruddy’s Roofing
Father and son operated. Great reviews on Home Advisor and Google. Email ruddy@ ruddysroofing.com. 512-736-2486
SEPTIC SERVICES All American Wastewater Solutions, LLC
Septic problems... Let us help! Locally serving our community since 1982. Septic repair and installation specialist, septic tank pumping and servicing, aerobic system servicing and more. Commercial and residential. www. allsepticcheck.com, 512–282–3889.
Sellman Enterprises, Inc.
Septic plumbing, cleaning, repairs Commercial & Residential Serving the Hays Metro area, including Travis, Blanco, Bastrop, Williamson & surrounding counties. 512–312–0002 www.SellmanSepticServices.com
SHOE REPAIR Austin Shoe Hospital
Quality boot & shoe repair as well as purse and luggage repair. Ten locations in Central Texas including: Ben White & Manchaca, 512-440-8788; Hwy 290 & Nutty Brown Rd., 512-827-3398; and Hwy 290 in Oak Hill, 512-2886386.
TREE SERVICES Lees Trees
Firewood, pruning, tree removal, chipping, planting, cedar posts, bulk mulch. Free assessments & estimates. Affordable oak wilt treatment. Schedule ball moss treatment for June. Call Marcus Lees at (512) 858-4018, leestrees@vownet.net
WINDOW TREATMENTS Made in the Shade
Custom window treatments at affordable prices. Graber, Hunter Douglas, Norman and more. Blinds, shades, draperies and shutters. Low prices with lifetime guarantees and fast professional installation. Call 512-847-8970, www. madeintheshadeofwimberley.com
A product of Barton Publications | 21
What’s in a name? The Hays Free Press will be doing an ongoing series about people that influenced the character of Buda, Kyle and surrounding communities. Inspired by street names of founding families in the area, we decided to start alphabetically to see who the namesakes of these streets were, or are. In this issue of the Hays County Echo, we decided to start with Allen Street in Kyle.
GEORGE MARTI N ALLEN
The Allens BY DAVID WHITE
was one of two colonists in the area that received Mexican llen Street in downtown Land grants of a league each Kyle is named after following the Mexican-AmeriGeorge Martin Allen who can War, which included most served in law enforcement in of the land in and around Hays County for 45 years. He Buda. The other colonist was began as a constable in Buda, Stephen B. Eggleston. before becoming Sheriff in 1916 The two colonists found and serving 14 years in that their environment unsafe as role before becoming a Texas it was inhabited by TonkaRanger and also as an agent for wa and Karankawa Native the Liquor Control Board. American tribes, as well as According to the book, being the hunting grounds for “People and Places in and Comanche and Apache. So, around historic Buda,” George P.J. returned to his most recent was the son of one of the earhome in Bastrop but later liest white settlers to come to returned to Buda after Gov. the Buda area in 1835 – Phillip Sam Houston commissioned Jefferson Allen. Phillip JefferCaptain John Coffee Hays to son, or P.J. as he was known, rid the area of the natives.
A
22 | Hays County Echo | SUMMER 2019
P.J. ALLEN
Eggleston was reported to have been killed by an “Indian” while in Bastrop and did not return to his land in Buda. The land Allen occupied became known as “Allen’s Prairie,” northwest of Onion Creek. The land is adjacent to Eggleston’s survey where the Allen Cemetery and Jardine’s Texas Foods is now. P.J. and his wife Jane Walker, who moved their family to Texas in 1831, had seven children. Their sixth child, P. Hansbrough Allen was the first white child known to be born in Hays County. Hays County had not been formed as of yet; not until March 1, 1848. But in later years P. Hansbrough served as the first County Commissioner to be elected to what is now Hays County, Pct. 2. P. Hansbrough retired in 1912 so his son George could run for Sheriff. The latest descendant of the Allen family to live in the area was George’s son P.J. Allen, who was named after his great grandfather. The young P.J., who died in 2006 at the age of 85, lived his final years at 408 Moore Street in Kyle which is a block away from Allen Street.
P.J.’s niece, and former mayor of Martindale, Loraine Harper, described P.J. as a gifted dancer. At San Marcos High School, “All the girls wanted to dance with him,” she said. P.J. graduated from what is now Texas State University and
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fought in World War II. After the war, he started dancing as a career. He danced at the Roxy Theater in New York City appearing in shows alongside Ethel Merman. P.J. eventually returned to Kyle and began a commercial
art career in the barn where his family once kept their milk cows and chickens, according to Harper. Over a 50-year career, P.J. produced window decor and holiday decorations for Joske’s department store in San Antonio and built many parade floats for events in San Antonio, Corpus Christi and Laredo.
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