June 2015 Hays County Echo by Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch

HAYS COUNTY

ECHO JUNE 2015

IN THIS ISSUE: DAY TRIP

Marble Falls AND: Gotta get a LaPaso The artist behind the ladles

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

AND: Say “Howdy” to Texas natives

page 1

HAYS COUNTY

ECHO

is published monthly by Barton Publications, Inc 113 W. Center St., Kyle, TX Contents © 2015. Publisher Cyndy Slovak-Barton Editor Kim Hilsenbeck Graphics Director David White Graphics Assistant Christine Thorpe Contributing Writers Chris Reid Kim Hilsenbeck Distribution Suzanne Hallam Marketing Tracy Mack Michael Weeks Miles Hanson Suzanne Hallam Paula Pulley Office Manager Connie Brewer For advertising information, please contact our sales department at 512-268-7862.

EDITOR’S NOTE

his issue of Echo offers something for everybody. Looking for a fun day trip this summer? In our Day Trippin’ series we show you around Marble Falls with all its charm and pie eating glory. If you’ve seen large kinetic art sculptures around Hays County, Austin, the state and beyond, it might be a LaPaso. In our “You do what?” series we bring you a behind-the-scenes look at his humble beginnings in Kyle and Buda and how he became so well-known in the art world. School is out and summer is here.

What are you going to do with the kids? Check out our list of fun summer activities for every budget and interest. From zip-lining to science museums, our list includes tried-and-true summer fun along with a few new ideas. Columnist Christine Reid offers her sage advice on gardening.This month it’s all about native plants and why they’re so important in drought-stricken Central Texas. We hope you enjoy this month’s issue of Echo and, as always, thanks for reading. Kim Hilsenbeck, editor

Inside

Marble Falls Day Trip......................................................................4-7 Finding hidden treasures in the Hill Country

Summertime Fun............................................................................8-9 Something for every budget

Gotta get a LaPaso......................................................................10-12 The artist behind the ladles

Local artist Jim LaPaso of Kyle has created a distinct style of mobile sculptures, many of which are made of ladles. (photo by Kim Hilsenbeck)

photo by David White

Last year, the Blue Bonnet Café in Marble Falls sold more than 40,000 pies. See story on pg. 4

Say ‘Howdy to Texas Natives’....................................................13-15 Learn why native plants are so important

Central Texas Events..................................................................16-17 Top picks for events and festivals

Service Directory........................................................................18-19 Find a service professional in your area

page 2 u june | 2015

JUICY • MOUTHWATERING FRESH • TENDER • SPICY Find it all in the

Grub Buzz FRIDAY SPECIAL

Buy one lunch plate, get the second 1/2 price.

A dining guide for Hays County

Check out our new sports bar. Chinese & Sushi 3-Course LunChes starting at $6.75 Includes Soup & Appetizer Lunch Hours 11am-2:30pm

We Deliver

5695 Kyle Parkway, Ste. 800 (Next to Lowes and Walgreens) Restaurant hours 11am-9pm 7 days a week

within 5 mile radius.

$1500

Minimum

512-268-3336

www.koyrestaurant.com

No sauce. No forks. No kidding.

Advertise in Grub Buzz and put hungry eyes on your business.

GERMAN-STYLE BARBECUE RESTAURANT IN LOCKHART, THE BARBECUE CAPITAL OF TEXAS!

Business Hours: Monday - Saturday: 10:30 a.m. - 8 p.m. Closed Sunday

Call Tracy at 512-268-7862 or email tracy@haysfreepress.com to start advertising today.

619 N. Colorado St. • Lockhart, TX 78644-2110 Phone: 512-398-2361 • Fax: 512-376-5576 kreuzmarket@sbcglobal.net page 3

Falling in love with Marble Falls by

That neon still shines

Kim Hilsenbeck

riving into Marble Falls from the southern end on Hwy 281, the first glimpse of town comes into view as you crest a hill. The water and the skyline create a bucolic scene below. One word comes to mind: charm. And this town has got it in spades. From its iconic Blue Bonnet Café to art sculptures on Main Street and everything in between, Marble Falls is worth the roughly hour-long trip from Hays County. Given the town’s name, you might expect to see waterfalls. And prior to 1951, you would have – that’s how Marble Falls became, well, Marble Falls. We bet you didn’t know the falls are still there, they’re just invisible beneath the lake’s surface. We didn’t know either until we read a history of the town in its 125th anniversary publication. A tiny homemade dam was blasted away on the Colorado River to make room for a new larger dam, according to the story. And then, things changed the tiny town. The article said, “That ended an era when the cascading staircase of water 22-feet tall and 250-feet wide fell freely between limestone canyon walls

page 4 u june | 2015

Those neon signs at the World Famous Blue Bonnet Café are iconic. They represent everything from good hometown service to the locals knowing they’re home when they see them after traveling out of town. But those neon signs were recently in jeopardy of being regulated by the city council back in February. Blue Bonnet Café owner John Kemper was worried about the proposed regulations. In the end, council decided not to turn off the lights.

photos by David White and Kim Hilsenbeck

and the city springing up on its north shore.” Two staffers from Echo recently made the trek up to Marble Falls. A late April morning was perfect for exploring the town of about 6,500.

The first stop, and rightfully so, was breakfast at the Blue Bonnet Café. First opened in 1929 at a location just a few blocks away, the current building sits right on Hwy 281, welcoming hungry patrons with its neon signs. Our waitress, Maura Dominguez, served up delicious food along with southern hospitality. Our bellies filled, the next stop was the Marble Falls Visitor Center, just next door to the café.

Dessert for breakfast?

Yes. At the Blue Bonnet, because they are well known throughout the Hill Country for their homemade pies. Fruit pies, meringue pies, crème pies – take your pick and get ready to share because the slices are huge. Each meringue topping is about four eggs, or so estimates Manager Brent Clett. For the record, the chocolate crème meringue is a delightful (and large) slice of yummy sweet goodness.

A stroll through downtown Inside the Marble Falls Visitor Center, friendly volunteer Jerry Schappe animatedly and enthusiastically explained some history of the town and recommended some eateries along with sight-seeing options. Loaded with brochures and magazines about Marble Falls, the next stop was Main Street. Just a block off the highway was this quiet and quaint shopping mecca All along the street, sculptures grace the sidewalks and median. It’s all part of an initiative called Art on Main. Sculptures were created by local and far-away artists. Signs for handmade chocolate drew our attention. Steve Parsons, owner of a chocolatier and catering shop in the GG Ganache building, welcomed us and showed us around. He’s been renting the space inside the market for about five years. He uses Belgium chocolate to make truffles, bark and other sweets. Originally from Houston, Parsons said the small town life suits him. “I love it here,” he said. With a promise to return later to purchase treats for our colleagues, we headed back to the car and drove out to Sweet Berry Farms north of town.

MARBLE FALLS, 6

0% INTEREST FOR 90 DAYS

5-Piece Dinettes starting at

$189

Sleep-EZ Mattress & Box

We will match your best price and beat it!

Twin - $155 Full - $205 Queen - $265 King - $355

Free Layaway!

1946 S IH-35, SAN MARCOS • 512-396-5555

How

Can

Help

Compassionate Care Hospice of Central Texas Your Home Town Hospice Team

102 WONDER WORLD DR., STE. 307 • SAN MARCOS, TX 78666 • 512-393-6003

DESIGNS

Kristen Cannon graphic Artist

kristencannondesigns@gmail.com 512-466-4250

PrePlanning • aftercare Program • cremation traditional ServiceS • new Building

FM 2770 & Kohler’s Crossing • 1715 Kirby, Kyle, TX 78640 in Plum Creek

512-268-8200 H www.HarrellFuneralHomes.com

page 5

Sweet Berry Farms

This pick-your-own fruit farm offers visitors a unique experience to pick their own strawberries, blackberries and even peaches right off the trees. On this day, dozens of school children in brightly colored matching shirts picked, played and partook in all things strawberry. Dan Copeland, who was born and raised in Marble Falls, farms the land and owns the business. He rents the land but owns 2.5 acres across the street where he and his wife Gretchen Copeland live. He studied agricultural education at Texas A&M University, then left Marble Falls for 16 years. He came back and opened Sweet Berry Farms 15 years ago. “We started with eight acres,” he said. “We just grew strawberries.” But he knew they needed to diversify their crop because some years

ustin

they fail. He and his wife now grow five varieties of strawberries, along with blackberries, peaches and figs. He uses what he called integrated pest management; if they find a problem, like spider mites or powdering mildew, they try to find an organic solution if they can. Visitors come from March through May to pick strawberries, then peaches into about June. Copeland also makes his own strawberry ice cream. In the fall, the farm has a big pumpkin festival, but Copeland said they ship the pumpkins in from Lubbock since they grow much better in the arid environment of northwest Texas. The farm appears to be doing well these days. Copeland said they get about 5,200 school children out each springs, and roughly the same amount in the fall. On fall weekends, he said they park 2,100 cars a day.

AppliAnce

SCRATCH-N-DENT • REFURBISHED • NEW

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

21 years of combined experience

Monday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday - By appointment only 4568 Dacy Lane, Bldg. 3 Buda,Tx 78610 512-534-6575

page 6 u june | 2015

Your satisfaction is our number one priority and that is why it is always guaranteed.

The short drive back to town included a stop at Granite Mountain for a few photos. The quarry is home to the famed pink granite that was used to build the Texas Capitol building in Austin. It was a trade – the state built a railroad through Marble Falls (which stopped at the granite quarry) in exchange for the stones to build the capitol. Back in the heart of the city, the park on the shores of the lake, though quiet and absent any visitors at

that time of day, offered a tranquil and quiet beautiful respite from a busy morning and early afternoon. Another park, this one farther in from the lake but next to a babbling creek, showed some signs of life as BBQ cook-off participants set up their RVs and pits, waiting the weekend’s competition. Ready for sustenance, we discussed the options. Seafood? Pizza? Mexican? Marble Falls has a decent selection of restaurants from which

to choose. We settled on the Double Horn Brew Pub on Hwy 281. A mug of cold handcrafted beer was a must taste, along with a fresh pear and spinach salad and a chicken sandwich. We were not disappointed with the food, service or atmosphere. By the end of the trip, at least one staffer was ready to sell her house and move to Marble Falls. The town, its residents and the views offer a friendly place for visitors. Why not make

it permanent? But reality settled in and we said goodbye. A quick jaunt back to the chocolate maker and we were on our way back to Hays County. But not before we stopped at the Starbuck’s – but only for the view it offered from the hill heading back out of town. Oh, and those chocolates for our coworkers? They disappeared before we hit Bee Cave.

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

Pediatrics

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

512-392-1700

www.CorridorPD.com

Internal Medicine

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

512-396-1000

www.CorridorIM.com

Providing a continuum of quality health services in San Marcos and Central Texas for over 20 years page 7

Get out and have some

SUMMER FUN T

he kids are home all summer. It’s hot. Money is tight. Patience is wearing thin. What is a parent to do? Check out our list of summertime fun activities. We bet you will find something on the list that gets you

out of the house and spending a fun day – or evening – with the kiddos. These activities are organized by price to make it easy to see which types of adventures are in your budget.

$ = Free or cheap $$ = Moderately priced $$$ = Pricier, but probably won’t break the bank

• Lake Kyle for fishing • Five Mile Dam for fishing or swimming

Boerne - Every Saturday 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at 33 Herff Rd. (Now-October) Market Days 2nd weekend every month 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on the main plaza Buda - Every Saturday 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Main Street, Buda (Open year round); Every Tuesday 4-7 p.m. at the SE corner of Sequoyah and Main Street (Now-January)

Wimberley Market Days - First Saturday of each month 7 a.m.4 p.m., 601 FM 2325

• Play disc golf in Steeplechase in east Kyle • Bird watching – inexpensive or homemade feeders attract all kinds of native Texas birds

Wimberley - Every Wednesday 3-6 p.m., RR 12 and River Road in front of the Community Thrift Shop

• Rio Vista Park in San Marcos

COMMEMORATIVE AIR FORCE

FREE OR CHEAP MOVIES: • Alamo Draft House movie camps

Dripping Springs - Every Wednesday 3-7 p.m., At the intersection of Hwy 290 and RR12 (Now-December) New Braunfels - Every Saturday 9 a.m.-1 p.m., 186 Castell Ave.

• $1 movies at theaters in Austin (Westgate and Tinseltown)

Fredericksburg - Every Monday-Saturday 7 a.m.-2 p.m. at Hurkamp Park downtown (Now-October); Every Thursday, 3:30-6:30 p.m. at the corner of Tyler and Dixon Streets along Rt. 2 (Now-October)

• EVO in Kyle - Tuesdays $5/person

HAYS COUNTY HISTORY: • Central Texas Wing of the Commemorative Air Force Library and Museum (at the San Marcos airport) • Claiborne-Kyle Log House

page 8 u june | 2015

Head out early to beat the heat and find the best local produce, foods and artisan offerings.

San Marcos - Every Tuesday 3-6, 312 E. Hopkins St. (Year round); and every Saturday 9 a.m.-1 p.m., San Antonio St. (Year round)

• Community libraries for reading and activities

• Hays County Courthouse

AREA FARMERS MARKETS

Kyle - Second Saturday of each month 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Sustainacycle 409 West Center Street (Now-July

FREE ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS:

• Landa Park in New Braunfels

STEEPLECHASE PARK

Fredericksburg Trade Days Weekend of the third Saturday of each month 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday & Saturday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, 355 Sunday Farms Lane (Now-December)

SWIMMING HOLES:

$$$

• Jacob’s Well in Wimberley • Blue Hole in Wimberley • Hamilton Pool in Dripping Springs • Krause Springs in Spicewood • Five Mile Dam in Kyle

MUSEUMS: • New Braunfels Museum of Art • Childrens’ Museum New Braunfels • Hill Country Science Mill in Dripping Springs • Austin Aquarium • Wittliff Collections, Alkek Library, Texas State, San Marcos • LBJ Museum in San Marcos • Calaboose African American Museum in San Marcos

THEATRES AND MOVIES:

THEME & WATER PARK ADVENTURES • Schlitterbahn Waterpark in New Braunfels • Splashtown in San Antonio • ZDTs Adventure Park in Seguin • Sea World San Antonio • Fiesta Texas San Antonio • Wimberley Zipline

JACOB’S WELL Jacob’s Well is an artesian well fed by the Trinity Aquifer. The depth is approximately 140 feet and meanders through underground caverns and crevices about 1.5 miles outward. The well sits on a natural area preserved by Hays County.

• The Emily Ann Theatre in Wimberley • The Wimberley Playhouse • The Corral Theater (outdoors on select weekends) • EVO in Kyle

JUMPING, MOVING, SHAKING AND FAST CARS: • The Jumpy Place in Kyle • Jumpoline in Austin • Austin Skate in Manchaca • Bowling (Sunset Lanes in San Marcos or Westgate Lanes in Austin)  • Peter Pan putt-putt in Austin (coolers allowed) • Horseback riding at Bear Creek Stables in Manchaca or Milestone Riding Academy in Driftwood • Central Texas Speedway

WIMBERLEY ZIPLINE ADVENTURE

CENTRAL TEXAS SPEEDWAY

Whether you live in western Hays County or eastern Hays County, we have you covered.

Hays Free Press

News-Dispatch

www.haysfreepress.com Serving Buda, Kyle and surrounding communities

www.haysnewsdispatch.com Serving Dripping Springs, Wimberley and surrounding communities

MAY 13, 2015

CAVES, CAVERNS AND NATURAL FORMATIONS: • Wonder World in San Marcos • Inner Space Caverns in Georgetown • Natural Bridge Caverns and Safari in New Braunfels

TUBING AND OTHER AQUATIC ADVENTURES: • Swim at the Kyle pool • Several tube rental companies operate in San Marcos, New Braunfels and Gruene • The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment, formerly Aquarena Springs • Join the Y Hays branch and swim all day

DOG THERAPY

COOK RETIRES

Visits from Elvis a bright spot for Orchard Park residents

Hays tennis coach Debbie Cook retires after 31 years

– Page 1C

– Page 1B

Hays Free Press ©Barton Publications, Inc.

Vol. 119 • No. 7

HaysFreePress.com

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

Water bill in Legislature squeezes EP water wells BY KIM HILSENBECK kim@haysfreepress.com

Closing the white zone of little-to-no water regulation could be affected by several bills moving through the Texas Legislature.

Expansion of the boundaries of the Barton Springs/Edwards Aquifer Conservation District to cover a section of unprotected groundwater in Hays County is one step closer to becoming law, according to a statement

KYLE CITY COUNCIL • DIST. 5

FOGLEY

SANCHEZ

HAYS WHITE ZONE, 2A

TENORIO

Two Kyle City Council seats still undecided after election BY MOSES LEOS III moses@haysfreepress.com

One election will not be enough to decide a pair of Kyle City Council seats as both the District 5 and District 6 races are headed for a runoff. Less than 905 Kyle

voters participated in the election either through early voting or on Election Day, which was May 9. That equates to about four percent of the eligible population of registered voters who cast a ballot in this election. Political newcomer Damon Fogley will go up

against Jaime Sanchez in the runoff for the District 5 seat. Meanwhile, Kyle City Council District 6 incumbent Tammy Swaton will have a runoff against challenger Daphne Tenorio. According to unofficial

RUNOFF ELECTION, 4A

Buda voters say yes ESD2 tax BY KIM HILSENBECK kim@haysfreepress.com

Voters in the Buda area gave the green light for Emergency Service Dis-

$.10 tax increase from $.03 For Against Total 215 145 360

five cents for as long as possible. “Our projections are to not raise the taxes unless it becomes absolutely necessary,” he wrote in an email Monday.

PHOTO BY MOSES LEOS III

Naked man apprehended in Kyle

Some Kyle residents witnessed quite the scene Thursday when a man who was “yelling unintelligibly” was seen walking naked in the middle of traffic on the Center Street Bridge in Kyle. Police officers were dispatched at around 10:30 a.m. and proceeded to trail the man, who led police officers on a short chase. Officers ultimately placed the man in custody in the Dairy Queen parking lot, but were forced to use a taser to subdue him. The man was transported to Seton Medical Center Hays for further evaluation. The status of the man is unknown. Above: Two Kyle Police officers subdue an unidentified man on the ground in the parking lot of the Dairy Queen in Kyle.

Mountain City to Kyle: it’s not no, but let’s talk

Hetrick, O’Connell join Kroll on DSISD board page 5

Volume XXXV No. 32

LAGNIAPPE

BY KIM HILSENBECK

Residents and guests packed into the city hall in Mountain City Monday evening to hear more about the proposed interlocal agreement with the city of Kyle and Hays County involving a transfer of extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ). Emotions ran high because the deal, as written

“The council should oppose this. And if this were put to a vote with the citizens of this town, it would be resoundingly defeated.” –Mountain City resident

roads and the ability to connect with Kyle’s water and wastewater services. Anthem is a proposed development of 2,200

Municipal Utility District (MUD). Nearly all in attendance at the Mountain City council meeting

page 8

Quack quack! Wimberley Duck Race this weekend The Wimberley EMS Duck Race will take place 10 a.m. Saturday at the Wimberley Rio Bonito Resort. For “$5 bucks a duck” participants can sponsor their own rubber racing duck. Every year hundreds of these rubber racing ducks are released and the top four winning ducks and one “Lame Duck” are awarded cash prizes ($2,000 for first, $1,000 for second, $500 for third, $250 for fourth and $250 for the Lame Duck.) The money from this event is used to bring lifesaving equipment to the community, such as AEDs, radio equipment and GPS mapping equipment. Ducks will run rain or shine.

Serving Western Hays County, Texas since 1982

Wimberley quarterly town meeting Tuesday Wimberley will hold its

Like us on Facebook

75¢

Thursday, May 14, 2015

One step closer to water regulation BY ASHLEY SAVA News-Dispatch Reporter

Closing the white zone of little to no water regulation could be affected by several bills moving through the Texas Legislature. Expansion of the

boundaries of the Barton Springs/Edwards Aquifer Conservation District to cover a section of unprotected groundwater in Hays County is one step closer to becoming law, according to a statement from Texas State Rep. Jason Isaac (R-Dripping Springs). House Bill 3405, authored

by Isaac, was approved 126 to 15 Friday by the Texas House of Representatives on a third reading. Agricultural and residential wells would be exempted by HB 3405, according to Isaac. In March, Isaac filed the bill in response to Electro Purification’s plan to pump up

Boy of the Year Leukemia patient says horse helped heal him

to five million gallons of water per day from an unregulated portion of the Cow Creek Formation of the Middle Trinity Aquifer. But Isaac’s bill and Texas Sen. Donna Campbell’s companion bill, SB 1440, are

WATER, 7

Commissioners Court Briefs for the week of May 12

BY ASHLEY SAVA News-Dispatch Reporter

A Driftwood triplet who battled leukemia is now in remission. And he credits his horse for helping him get through the three-year battle. Dylan Hodgson, 7, said his horse “helped me and kissed me” when he was fighting off leukemia. The boy’s mom, Kimberley Hodgson, said, “We have horses, and he’s always loved our one mare. She’s quite a difficult ride, but she just loves Dylan, and when he comes around she turns into this quiet and careful horse. Her nickname is Mama Bear.” Hodgson calls Dylan’s love of seeing his horse a dose of vitamin H. During hospital stays, the horse’s photo was on Dylan’s wall. “I’d say, ‘Mama Bear wants to see you when you get home,’” Hodgson said. Dylan recently became the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of South Central Texas’ honorary Boy of the Year. “We are in a really good place in our lives right now,” she said. “Our entire whole world revolved around battling cancer so many years.” For a mother of a boy battling cancer, everything is put in a new perspective. “I started noticing parents getting bent out of shape on the smallest things,” she said.

Call 512-268-7862 to subscribe

kim@haysfreepress.com

Billy Boxes come to market

News-Dispatch The Hays County Government will be showcasing its current open positions and expected future ones at a job fair from 1 to 4 p.m. May 19 at the Hays County Government Center. Visitors must enter through security at the front of the building. Listed jobs are located at various sites throughout Hays County, most of them in the San Marcos area. Current jobs are also posted at www.co.hays. tx.us.

KYLE CITY COUNCIL • DIST. 6

SWATON

page 4

Thinking about working for the county? Job fair May 19

from Texas State Rep. Jason Isaac (R-Dripping Springs). House Bill 3405, authored by Isaac, was approved 126 to 15 Friday by the Texas House of Representatives

RUNOFF ELECTION

Tigers take Bastrop Bears in 3

$102,926 needed for Local Public Health System The commissioners voted in favor of authorizing Judge Cobb to submit a funding request to the Texas Department of State Health Services for the Local Public Health System (LPHS) in the amount of $102,926. The LPHS provides annual funding to support disease surveillance, tracking and reporting, as well as developing plans and policies to improve the delivery of public health services within Hays County. Funds will be used to provide partial support of the salary and benefits of the Community Health RN Supervisor over a two-year period. This is

page 9

COMMISH, 7

Talcott out, Dussler in for Wimberley

Gotta get a LaPaso by Kim Hilsenbeck

rt collectors collect an artist as much as they do art, so the story goes. And rising to the level of notoriety to be able to go by just one’s last name, a la Picasso, Monet, Renoir, is the icing on the cake for many artists. Art enthusiasts may say, “Oh, I love your Picasso. Where did you find it?” And what exists now are all that ever will in terms of those renowned artists. Here’s another example: Do you have a LaPaso? If not, never fear – it’s not too late. At age 70, James (Jim) LaPaso of Kyle, is still going strong, making his now iconic sculptures, unlike his one-name counterparts from earlier centuries. His current forte is creating sculptures with kinetic movement in colorful, playful designs. LaPaso’s work is distinct. Perhaps it’s the stainless steel mixed with dichroic glass that catches the light and changes color. Or the way the pieces move in seemingly random patterns. Or perhaps it’s the soup ladles he uses in some of his outdoor sculptures. That’s right. Soup ladles. “I’m the largest purchaser of soup ladles in the country,” he

said during a recent visit at his home just outside Kyle’s city limits. “We buy 500 every two to two and a half months.” The ladles run about $1-$5 wholesale. And they feature prominently in many of his art sculptures, which can be seen around Texas and beyond. Not all of his designs have the ladles. LaPaso makes what comes to his mind. This is true of what comes out of his mouth, as well. He is direct, a little gruff and concise. He’s also well known in the art world. But he hasn’t always worked with stainless steel. “I used to do woodworking,” he said. He coughed, then apologized. “Sorry, my allergies are kicking my ass today,” he said. Does he still do that kind of art? “I haven’t touched a piece of wood since I developed a fire-

place tool,” he said. LaPaso demonstrated the “LaBear Claw,” which he said fireplace stores liked but didn’t want to buy because it was, in his words, “Too well made.” So he sold it himself. “We did arts and craft shows every weekend all across the country,” he said. “We did well over a million dollars worth [of sales] in five years.” He also used to make sculptures out of copper. Before that he sold rusted yard art, selling it over eBay and at shows. “I got real tired of that,” he said. He also worked in construction and building for many years. And did antler art for about five years. “I’ve had several lives, let’s put it that way,” LaPaso said. No matter the medium, LaPaso said he is an artist first. “Since I was born I’ve done art. I used to dig up clay in a quarry and make things out of

PHOTOS BY KIM HILSENBECK

page 10 u june | 2015

it,” he said. LaPaso’s father was a furniture builder and did paintings, so he came by the craft honestly. “Everything I do, everything I touch is art. My house, the cars,” he said. He was referring to the six old cars on his property that were in varying stages of restoration. They are art of a different kind and one of LaPaso’s real passions these days.

LAPASO, 12

STILL LOVING WHAT WE DO after 33 years

in the community! compassionate,

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

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

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

page 11

Bra Fitting, Apparel, Sleepwear, Lingerie, Shoe Purses & Jewelry Bra Fitting, Apparel,

Sleepwear, Lingerie, Shoes,

Bra Fitting, Apparel, Purses & Jewelry Sleepwear, Lingerie, Shoes, Purses & Jewelry

page 12 u june | 2015

GIL

M GA

GIL

ILRB

ST .

LE ON

AV E

W. C

173 S. SeguinLL AAve. VE New Braunfels . AC 830-214-0728 AD EM HI YA www.theperkypeacock.com LL AV VE E. Mon-Fri .10-6 Sat 10-4:30

ER T

173 S. Seguin Ave. New Braunfels Into Focus 830-214-0728 www.theperkypeacock.com Mon-Fri 10-6 Sat 10-4:30

LA VE

Bringing Your World ST .

ILL

ST .

W. M

ST .

NS B T. UTC

LA VE

AV E

Scott Kelly , M.D. Ophthalmologist Specializing in Cornea & External Disease, Cataract & Refractive Surgery and Laser Vision Correction

RD E

AV Kristen M. Hawthorne, M.D. E. Ophthalmologist AC AD Specializing in Cornea & External EM H ILL Surgery YA Disease, Cataract & Refractive AV V . E. and Laser EVision Correction

OS CR

173 S. Seguin Ave. New Braunfels 830-214-0728 www.theperkypeacock.com Mon-Fri 10-6 Sat 10-4:30 T.

ST . IO ON

The Perky Peacock

New Location

LA VE

AV E

LA VE

ER T

CO LL S

NA PO LE O

TO LL ES

NT ON I NA

ER T

AV E

ST .

L AV AVE. E.

ST .

CH E

YA VE

AV E

BU T

ILL

YA VE

AN A

W. M

W. C

BR I

LA VE

W. C

DG CR E S OSS T. ST .

T. KS ZIN

www.howertoneye.com TO

YA VE

W. S

The Perky Peacock

New Location

AV E

LA VE

ST .

AV E

ST .

Richard A. Berkowitz, M.D., F.A.C.S. Ophthalmologist Specializing in Cornea and External Disease and Cataract Surgery

We have three locations to serve you: Kyle:

• 5401 S. FM 1626, Ste. 365

See better this summer

Austin:

• 2610 S. IH 35 • 5625 Eiger Rd., Ste. 100

512.443.9715

Summer Lasik Special • $500 OFF ($250 per eye) Expires 8/31/15

173 N 83 www.th M S

P BU

ST .

LA VE

VISION N.

OL LS T.

NA PO LE ON ST .

E. SA N

ST.

ST .

ER T

AV E

ST .

ZIN

ST .

AV E

www.theperkypeacock.com N.

LA VE

ER T

E. C

ST .

TO NI O

TO LL ES T.

ST .

E. MI LL

ST. ON

LE PO

LA VE

ILL

ST .

P New Location P

AV E

HIL

YA VE

ST.

The Perky Peacock

SS OS CR

HIL

LA VE

W. S

AV E

W. C

ST.

ILL

ST.

LA VE

NIO

YA VCOEM .AL A

NA VE

ER T

AV E

GIL

The Perky Peacock

MIL

LA VE

W. S

YA VE

AV E

W. M

GIL

ST.

W. M

ZIN

LA VE

ST.

HIL

YA VE

Mon-Fri 10-6 Sat 10-4:30 N. S

ST .

BR ID GE ST .

AV E

W. CO LL

ST .

EN ST .

LA VE

ER ST .

ST .

HIL

LA VE

OS SS T.

ZIN KS T.

LA VE

TO N

YA VE

OL LS T.

ST .

TO N

CO LL S

TO LL ES T.

LA VE

TC H

HIL

AV E

BU TC HE R

CR OS S

YA VE

GA RD EN

W. SA N

A LA VE CAD . EM

LS T.

AV E

HIL

AV E

The Perky Peacock

ST .

ELL

ST .

W. M

YA VE

W. C

W. S

LA VE

Sleepwear, Lingerie, Shoes, Purses & Jewelry BraS.Fitting, Apparel, 173 Seguin Ave. Sleepwear, Lingerie, New Braunfels, TX Shoes, Purses & Jewelry 830-214-0728 Mon-Fri, 10am-6pm Saturday, 10am-4:30pm AC

173 S. Seguin Ave. New Braunfels 830-214-0728 www.theperkypeacock.com 830-214-0728 Mon-Fri 10-6 P www.theperkypeacock.com P Sat 10-4:30

GUP IN

E. C

LA VE

GIL

ILL S

AN TO NIO

ST .

W. M

The Perky Peacock

AV E

ELL

E. SA N

KEER TTA VE

NA ST . PO LE ON E. MIL ST LS . T. T.

TO LL ES

ILL S

AN TO NIO

AV E

ILL ST .

SA N

ST . ZIN

ST .

BR ID GE

W. S

But what LaPaso is probably best known for is his stainless steel kinetic art. His sculptures grace the yards of homes and the front of hotels, hospitals and businesses around the country. The business took off not long after he was invited to the International Wind Sculpture Symposium in Santa Fe. Yet when he first got the call, he told the man on the phone he didn’t have much money and how much was it going to cost to come out to the event. “He said, ‘It’s not going to cost you anything. We’re going to give you $1,500 and three days free,’” LaPaso recalled. “And after that call I looked at my wife and said, ‘Art is good.’” LaPaso recently installed one of his famed creations in San Marcos. Titled ‘River of Life’, the piece came to be because of his love for the San Marcos River. He has kayaked it for 30 years. He created what he thought the first inhabitants of the area – the Anastazis – may have seen, which included a spring shooting fifty feet in the air with a large plume at the top. In his design, the blue glass on the base lights up at night and represents gushing water and the kinetic piece with the dichroic glass at the top represents the plume with its rainbow. Yet despite his relative success with his stainless steel art, this Illinois native remains humble, in words and actions.

Bra Fitting, Apparel, Sleepwear, Lingerie, Shoes, Purses & Jewelry

BraNew Fitting, Apparel, Sleepwear, Location New Location Lingerie, Shoes, 173 S.Purses Seguin Ave. & Jewelry Bra Fitting, Apparel, New Braunfels N.

–Jim LaPaso

LAPASO, from 10

KS T.

ST . ZIN K

“I’m the largest purchaser of soup ladles in the country. We buy 500 every two to two and a half months.” Originally from Joliet, about 40 miles south of Chicago, LaPaso moved to Texas 32 years ago. He still has family up there. His parents passed away several years ago, but his two sisters are still in the area. What drew him to the Lone Star State? “Warm weather and friends,” he said. He has one musician friend, with whom he is still in touch to this day, from Joliet who used to brag on Austin all the time. Was LaPaso a musician? “I played drums and sang in high school,” he said. “But it was just to find girls.” LaPaso is also a collector of art and has quite a few items in his home. But much of it he traded for with other wellknown modern day artists. The majority of art in his home was trades from other artists. For example, he has a piece from Kathleen Ash of Manchaca. A few employees help LaPaso these days. Some of his most purchased designs can be done by those he trains He’s worked with a few apprentices over the years. But he took a moment to give kudos to his fabricator, John Weber. “I couldn’t do it without him; he has been with me for 10 years,” he said. LaPaso feels he’s been lucky, but also said he worked hard to be successful. He learned how to build web sites, be a salesman, and run a business in addition to the art. “You do [art] because you love making it,’ he said.

Say ‘Howdy’ to Texas natives by Christine Reid

hen in doubt, go native! At least as far as your landscape is concerned, that is. Unfortunately, some people are convinced that putting in native plants and trees means giving up having a colorful, interesting yard. They may think that a lot of natives tend to be dull, mousy things that you put in your garden for noble reasons, not aesthetic ones. Well, they think wrong! You can do something good for the environment and get a beautiful, relaxing garden as well. It can also save you time and money. There are varying definitions of ‘native plants’ out there, but for this purpose, they’re plants and trees that have grown well on their own in this area for a long time without human intervention, provide value to wildlife and aren’t considered invasive. Natives are survivors: past, present and future.

TEXAS NATIVES, 14

Eagle Mountain

Pollinator Partnership pollinator.org Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center wildflower.org “Native Texas Plants” by Sally and Andy Wasowski “Remarkable Plants of Texas” by Matt Turner

BLACKFOOT DAISY

HEARTLEAF HIBISCUS

A favorite flower for hummingbirds as well as bees is the attractive Brazos Penstemon, which shoots up spikes with small, lavender flowers from a base of green leaves throughout the season. photos by Christine Reid

TEXAS LEHIGH Cement Company LP

We make the stuff GROWTH is built on. (512) 295-6111

Resources for native plant information Native Plant Society of Texas npsot.org

GOLDENBALL LEAD TREE

Texas Lehigh is the proud sponsor of the Hays County Echo Sudoku Puzzles.

Flags & Flagpoles Patriotic Gifts Knives & Cutlery Mon-Thurs, 9am-5pm Friday, 9am-3pm

512-847-0010 800-385-5605 www.EMflag.com 333 FM 2325 • Wimberley

see solution on page 19

page 13

TEXAS NATIVES, from 13 Birds, butterflies and other wildlife are naturally drawn to native plantings. Many pollinators, such as bees, prefer natives, as they contain the nutrition that some hybrid plants lack. Native butterfly weed (Asclepias tuberosa), the host plant for the monarch and queen butterflies, makes a charming addition to the garden with its vivid orange blooms. It also attracts oleander aphids which then draw in beneficial insects such as ladybugs. The heartleaf hibiscus, with its vibrant red blooms, and fragrant blackfoot daisy are also popular with pollinators and do well in a rock garden. There are some great native trees that provide beauty, food and shade. The Texas persimmon tree may not produce large fruit, but the trees have an elegant look and the sweet black persimmon is delicious to both wildlife and people. The native pecan trees don’t yield large nuts like the paper shell pecans,

but some feel the taste is superior. The native pecan trees are also thought sturdier and more drought tolerant than the improved varieties. They give lots of shade, too! In addition to food, native plants can provide shelter. On windy days, many butterflies find safe harbor in native grasses like silvery plumed Lindheimer muhly, pink bloomed gulf muhly or switch grass, which turns golden in the fall. People benefit from native gardens too, as there’s something very enjoyable about a pretty yard filled with butterflies flitting from flower to flower, velvety bumblebees industriously going after pollen and birds swooping from tree to tree. Because native plants, shrubs and trees are adapted to the local environment, they require less water after being established, such as kidneywood, Chinquapin oak, Burr oak, cedar elm and Texas sage, to mention just a few. ‘Dry shade’ plants like Turk’s cap, flame acanthus

Suggested varieties for native planting TREES Anacacho Orchid Bald Cypress Burr Oak Cedar Elm Chinqaupin Oak Desert Willow Goldenball Lead Tree Pecan (native) Retama Roughleaf Dogwood Texas Persimmon Texas Redbud

PERENNIALS Blackfoot Daisy Butterfly Weed Brazos Penstemon Cedar Sage Coneflower Damianita Fall Obedient Plant Four-Nerve Daisy Heartleaf Hibiscus Red Columbine Salvia greggii

A US TI N

GRASSES

TEXAS PERSIMMON

Blue stem Buffalo grass Gulf Muhly Inland Seaoats Lindheimer Muhly Silver Pony Foot Switch grass

VINES Alamo vine Carolina Jessamine Coral Honeysuckle Crossvine Passion vine

SHRUBS Flame Acanthus Kidneywood Possumhaw Texas Sage Turk's Cap White Mistflower Yaupon Holly

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

A S S O C I A T I O N

KYLE NOW OPEN

SCHEDULE NOW AT 512.453.6100 OR AUSRAD.COM. page 14 u june | 2015

1626

ACC

Plum Creek Golf Course

NOW OPEN

171 ssing

Kohler’s Crossing

Kyle Cro

We look forward to serving you and your family!

210

ARA

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

4211 BENNER ROAD, SUITE 100 • KYLE, TEXAS 78640

Benner Rd

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

and cedar sage usually do a soft-looking but tenacious just fine without any help, or ground cover, silver ponyfoot, water, from people. They also only gets about 4 inches high don’t need synthetic pesticides and forms a silvery mat that and fertilizers. By avoiding the takes care of itself. Clearly, the use of chemicals, homeowners less often a gasoline-powered can do their part to keep the piece of equipment is used, underground water supply the better the air quality is for clean. Keeping things organall of us. Plus, consider how ic in the pleasant it yard means would be birds, frogs, to hear less LINDHEIMER MUHLY butterflies roaring of and other mowers, wildlife will edgers and thrive and leaf blowers help control and more garden pests. chattering When of birds and allowed to buzzing of look natubees. ral, native The next grasses need time you little, if any, have a spot mowing. A to fill in clump of an the garden, ornamental consider grass like inland sea oats putting in a native tree, shrub with its gently swaying ivory or plant. Do it for the environseedheads in the summer and ment, wildlife and you. Going fall doesn’t need much care native has never been so easy at all, once established. The or looked so good! previously mentioned muhly Any questions? Send an grasses make very nice natural email to reidsnursery@gmail. plantings as well as buffalo com or call us at (512) 398grass, a native turfgrass. And 6011. Enjoy your garden!

D A I LL O M R

BUDA

DRUG STORE

Old Fashioned Soda Fountain Treats and Full Service Pharmacy Prescription Delivery Available Fountain: Mon-Sat, 8 am-7 pm • 512-312-2172 Pharmacy: Mon-Fri, 9 am-6 pm; Sat, 9 am-2 pm • 512-312-2111

203 Railroad St. Buda, Texas

Buy One Specialty Coffee, Get One Half Off With Coupon. Expires 6/30/15.

Browse & Buy Photos at www.HaysFreePress.com

Click on the photos link.

Don’t Quit ... Switch Quality Electronic Cigarettes and Premium E-Liquids All of the pleasures – None of the guilt

No Butts About it, Vaping Kicks Ash! No Tar • No Ash Premium E-Liquids Personal Instruction Professional Support

(512) 858-7620 27490 RR12, Dripping Springs Between Walgreens & Home Depot page 15

Central Texas Festivals & Events Now-July 3 San Marcos - Homegrown: Austin Music Posters, 1967 to 1982

Poster artists in the late 1960s, ‘70s and ‘80s visually evoked the sound and defined the culture of Austin just as the city was establishing itself as one of the most vital music scenes in the country. More than 125 vintage pieces from the Wittliff Collections’ poster archives document this history and testify to Texas artists’ mastery of the poster form using hand drawings and creative print techniques. The Wittliff Collections at Alkek Library. www.thewittliffcollections.txstate. edu 512-245-2313

Now-July 3 San Marcos - Armadillo Rising: Austin’s Music Scene in the 1970s

Showcasing the vibrant and eclectic Texas Music archives at the Wittliff Collections, this exhibition presents handwritten lyrics, photographs and memorabilia from musical icons such as Willie Nelson, Jerry Jeff Walker, the Armadillo World Headquarters and Austin City Limits. The Wittliff Collections, Alkek Library, 601 University Drive. www. thewittliffcollections.txstate.edu 512-245-2313

June 5 Buda - Movies in the Park

Buda kicks off its June movie series with “Tangled” at Buda City Park on June 5. Movies begin at dusk.

Join Kyle PARK to kick off the summer movies series. June’s movie will be “Boxtrolls.” Movies start 30 minutes after sunset. For more information, visit the city of Kyle website.

June 12-14 Buda Movies in the Park

Buda continues its June movie series with “Paddington” at Buda City Park on June 12-14. Movies begin at 9 p.m.

June 13 San Marcos - Texas Water Safari

This 260-mile event, styled as “the world’s toughest canoe race,” begins on the headwaters of the San Marcos River. Competitors have four days and four hours to paddle from San Marcos, in the center of the state, to the town of Seadrift on the Gulf Coast.

June 6 Wimberley Market Days

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

June 6 Kyle - Kids’ Fishing Clinic and Derby Educational sessions are led by certified instructors from Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Open to children 6 years and older or entering first grade. The event is held at Lake Kyle.

June 13 Kyle Market Days

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

Down South Railhouse in Kyle will host this season’s Concerts for a Cause. June’s concert will feature music by George Mercado Jr. and benefit For the Love of Go. Concerts for a Cause is a way to raise awareness of and raise money for some of the local to Hays County charities that work to make this “simply charming” county an even better place to live.

Enjoy live music, dancing, games, food and more at this festival in Johnson City. Gates open at 10 a.m. Visit www.stonevalleytexas. com for more information.

June 11-13 Lockhart - Chisolm Trail Roundup

The 43rd annual Chisolm Trail Roundup will be June 11-13 at Lockhart City Park. This festival, rodeo, and barbeque roundup is packed with events and fun for all ages. Visit www. chisholmtrailroundup.com for more information.

June 13-14 Boerne Market Days

Hundreds of festive booths display everything from collectibles and nostalgia to modern innovations. Also enjoy food and live entertainment. Downtown plaza, Boerne

June 19-21 Buda Movies in the Park

Buda continues its June movie series with “Muppets Most Wanted” at Buda City Park on June 19-21. Movies begin at 9 p.m.

June 6 Kyle - Concerts for a Cause

June 6 Stone Valley Music Festival

page 16 u june | 2015

June 12 Movies at Lake Kyle

June 19-20 Stonewall - Peach JAMboree and Rodeo

June 13 San Marcos - Salsa Fest

Chefs and amateurs alike compete for coveted handmade trophies and bragging rights for making the best salsa. Categories include Best Traditional, Best NonTraditional, Blow Your Face Off!, Best Presentation and Most Unique. Queso entries get a chance at the Cheesehead Trophy. Also enjoy live music and family activities. The event is held at the Eye of the Dog Art Center in San Marcos.

June 13 Boerne Second Saturday Art and Wine

Enjoy complimentary beverages and hors d’oeuvres with fantastic art in local galleries throughout downtown Boerne.

The 54th annual Peach JAMboree and rodeo will be held at the fairgrounds in Stonewall, TX (250 Peach Street). Visit www. stonewalltexas.com for more information.

June 19-21 Fredericksburg Trade Days

Shop with more than 350 vendors or relax in the biergarten while listening to live music. Seven miles east of town off U.S. 290, 355 Sunday Farms Lane. www. fbgtradedays.com 210-846-4094

June 20 Dripping Springs - Tomato Roundup

This annual festival includes games, food, music, family activities and all the tomatoes you could dream of. The event is held in Founders Park in Dripping Springs.

We know how it works!

June 20 San Marcos Dick’s Classic Garage Car Show

Bring your classic car to compete for prizes or just bring your friends and family to enjoy a good time. Live music and food keep the party going. Dick’s Classic Car Garage, 120 Stagecoach Trail, San Marcos. www.dicksclassicgarage.com 512878-2406

June 20-21 Old Gruene Market Days

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

p.m. with winners announced at 9 p.m. The event is sponsored by Guadalupe Regional Medical Center and hosted by The Silver Center.

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

Located in the San Marcos Square

June 25-28 Luling Watermelon Thump

The annual Luling Watermelon Thump will be held June 25-28. This four-day festival includes seed spitting contests, rodeo, live music and more. Visit www. watermelonthump.com for more information.

June 26-28 Buda Movies in the Park

Buda continues its June movie series with “An American Tail” at Buda City Park on June 26-28. Movies begin at 9 p.m.

512-392-8999

www.sanmarcosbailbonds.com

June 18 Gruene - Come and Taste It

Meet Texas’ best winemakers the third Thursday of each month. Enjoy complimentary wine and beer tastings, and learn directly from the craftsman. Live music and food samples complement the wines on Gruene Historic District’s Grapevine patio. Also live entertainment nightly at Texas’ Oldest Dancehall. 830-6060093. www.GrapevineinGruene.com.

June 23 Taste of Seguin

Taste of Seguin, the annual rivalry between restaurants, caterers and commercial kitchens, is set for June 23 at the Seguin-Guadalupe County Coliseum, 950 S. Austin St. Samples of appetizers, soups/salads, entrees and desserts are provided by more than 20 vendors. Plus, there is music, dancing, door prizes, a raffle, silent auction and other activities for a lively evening beginning at 6

June 27 Dripping Springs - Brent Thurman Memorial Bull Riding

This annual event includes rodeo events, PBR bull riding, golf tournament, dance and more. The event is held at Dripping Springs Ranch park. For more information visit hwww.brentthurman.com.

June 27-28 Johnson City - Market Days

Enjoy food, artisans and other vendors in the heart of Texas Wine Country on the fourth weekend of each month. Memorial Park, 109 E. Main St. www.johnsoncity-texas. com 830-868-7684

Jaecee C.

Annie R.

Congrats 2015 Grads! Future grads apply now.

austincc.edu page 17

Hays County Echo Service Directory AIR CONDITIONING A&E Air Conditioning & Heating $500 off complete system Free furnace special. Call for details. 512-312-9535 www.ae4cool.com

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

LAWN SERVICES/LANDSCAPING Ray & Sons Landscaping

CONCRETE WORK

Residential and commercial landscaping and tree service including ball moss removal, cabling and professional tree pruning. Insured. Call for free estimate, 512-216-1455 or 512-400-8243.

Free estimates for replacements. Service, sales, installs, duct cleaning. Locally owned and operated. Licensed, bonded, insured and registered 512-312-9080 www.AIM4AC.com

XEVEX Concrete Services

Who Does Your Lawn

APC Service, LLC

ELECTRICAL SERVICE

Taking care of your lawn so you can play. Offering competitive pricing and superior service in Manchaca, Buda and Kyle areas since 2010. Mowing, trimming, edging, debris removal, flower bed maintenance. Call Jesse Reyna at (512) 788-2180 or email apa6207@sbcglobal.net.

Keen Electrical Service

LEGAL SERVICES

AIM A/C and Heating Service

Electrical, A/C, heating Commercial and residential. Free service call with repair. 512-295-4023 www.APCServicePros.com tricoconst@austin.rr.com

NEMEC Heating and Air Proudly serving Central Texas Residential, commercial and after hours available. chris@nemecheatingandair.com 512-312-9081 512-789-5132

AUTOMOTIVE AMM Collision Center Three great locations! Kyle: 21681 IH-35, 262-1013 Austin: 11740 Manchaca Rd., 292-1060 Dripping Springs: 3990 Hwy 290, 512-894-3888

Buda Automotive You know us... by our reputation! Full service car & truck repair 601 S. Loop 4 in Buda 512-295-2832

Kyle Automotive Serving Kyle and Hays County for nearly 20 years! Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. 107 N. Main Street, Kyle, Tx 78640 512-268-1173 www.KyleAutomotive.com

COMPUTER SERVICE A Computer Werks Business, residential or commercial Adware, spyware, malware, installations. Service, software, hardware and custom builds. 512-694-1746 www.acomputerwerks.com

page 18 u june | 2015

Free estimates! Bonded & insured. Foundations, driveways, patios, repairs, staining, removal, Bobcat services. 512-312-4214 www.xevexllc.com

Commercial, industrial, residential. Licensed/insured, TECL #26308. J.. Craig Keen, owner/master electrician. keenzone7@att.net. 512-653-1125

GLASS SERVICE Berry Glass Company Commercial and Residential Contract glazing, storefronts, insulated glass, furniture tops, tempered glass and mirrors. Framed & frameless tub & shower enclosure. 5360 Industrial Way Dr., Buda, Tx 78610 512-312-2767

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, Texas. 512-268-6425

LOCKSMITH Buda Lock & Key

HARDWARE

30 years service experience Automotive, residential and commercial. Serving Travis, Hays and Caldwell counties. 512-2952883. Toll Free 888-216-5625

Power Haus Equipment

MASSAGE

We repair most tools andsmall engines. Call or stop by. 111 E. MLK Dr., Ste. B, San Marcos, TX 512-392-1518

HOME REPAIR The Handyman Can No job too small - all your home improvement needs. Painting, pressure washing, fencing, electrical, flooring, landscaping, roofing, decks, tile and more. Call Jon at 512-4961243.

Steel Horse Constructors Serving Hays County and surrounding areas. Painting, remodels, carpentry, trim work, special design and more. Free estimate. References available. Call Jim ‘Blu’ Cooke at 512-781-2911 or steelhorseconstructors@gmail.com.

Massage Therapy

Professional Therapeutic Massage by Leslie Navarro in Driftwood near the Salt Lick. Chair or table (20 minute minimums). Great rates. Call for an appointment 512-468-4058.

PAINTING Chuck’s Painting and Remodeling

Interior/exterior painting and repairs. References and reasonable rates. 512-944-2910

PET SITTING Carver’s Critter Sitter

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

A Purrfect Fit House and Pet Sitting

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

Petunia’s Pets House Sitting

Dripping Springs & surrounding areas. Veterinary technician trained. Multi-species. Honest, dependable & bilingual. Call or text 512-68-4058.

PLUMBING Prince Plumbing Company Residential repair, remodeling, water heaters, sewer maintenance, slab & gas leak repair. 20 years experience, family owned and operated. 512-312-0710

POOL SERVICE Splash Swimming Pool Service

Serving Hays County. Monthly pool contracts. Delivery of chemical & parts. Pool inspections. Repairs and more. 512-212-0440.

G&S Pool and Spa Service Serving South Austin, Dripping Springs, Driftwood, Kyle and Buda since 1994. 512-326-4695 www.gspoolspa.com

REMODELING Fox Tile Inc. and Remodel Services Flooring and remodel business since 1992. Kitchen and bathrooms, full renovation. 829 Arroyo Ranch Rd., Kyle, TX 78640. www.FoxTileInc.com, 512-844-0199

Tri-County Construction Let us make your dreams a reality! Specializing in custom remodeling and insurance repairs since 1984. Fully insured. 512-282-6224

Wild West Remodeling No job too small or too big! Kitchen/bath remodels, painting, tile, siding, decks, trim, door & window replacements, drywall repair, electrical and plumbing. Curtis Dorsett, 512-402-4704

ROOFING

TREE SERVICES

Area Roofing Company

Gil’s Tree Service

Serving Hays County Residential & Commercial Free estimates. Insurance claims welcome. Ron Johnson, owner 512-312-5050

Krueger Roofing Company

Serving Central Texas for over 35 years. References available upon request. (512) 658-7177

SEPTIC SERVICES All American Wastewater Solutions, LLC

Residential and commercial. Professional tree pruning, cabling, cavity filling, landscaping, ball moss removal, construction, repair. Member of National Arbonist Association, International Society of Arboriculture. Call for a free estimate, 512-2216716 To advertise your business in the Hays County Echo Service Directory, please call Suzanne at 512-268-7862 or email paper@ haysfreepress.com

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.

Sudoku solution, from pg. 13

of Austin Ear, Nose & Throat Clinic, LLC

Hearing Aid & Audiological Services • Visual Reinforcement Audiometry (VRA) • Otoacoustic Emission Testing (OAE) • Video Nystagmography (VNG)

Two locations to serve you

512.444.7944

Every Drop of Hill Country Springs water comes from a protected Spring Source, NOT filtered municipal Water!

866-691-2369

www.hillcountrypropertyvalues.com

Family Owned and Operated. Friendly Hometown Service, Serving Texans!

Austin Ear, Nose & Throat Clinic Pediatric and adult care

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

Ear, Nose and Throat Services Ear & Hearing

Thyroid and Parathyroid

1005 W. San Antonio Suite A Lockhart, TX 78644

• Drinking • Spring Water • Purified Water • Hot & Cold • Room Temp & Cold

(Present this ad to your routeman for special.)

512.268.5282

Location

• 5 & 3 Gal. Bottles • Coolers • .5 Liter Bottles • R/O Filtration • Private Label Avail.

Call Elisha Spanton at 512-420-7950

Location

1180 Seton Parkway Suite 420 Kyle, TX 78660

& First Month Cooler Rental FREE!

CALL NOW FOR YOUR HOME AND OFFICE DELIVERY NEEDS

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

Kyle

4 FREE Bottles

251 N. FM 1626 #2C • Buda, TX 78610 Office: (512) 312-1917 • Fax: 312-0688 Email: dvthames@austin.rr.com Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm Your Business & Referrals Are Appreciated

Enjoy the Sounds of Life Again

Lockhart Amber Bass, Au.D, CCC-A

AUTO • HOME • LIFE BOAT • HEALTH

Want to know what your home is truly worth?

Hearing Centers

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

Debbie Thames Insurance Agency

DRIPPING SPRINGS

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

FARMERS®

• Ultrasound and Needle Biopsy • Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery

Allergy

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

Children’s ENT

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

Michael Yium, MD

Nose & Sinus

• Endoscopic Sinus Surgery • In-office Balloon Sinuplasty

Thomas Nowlin, MD

Throat, Head & Neck

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

Visit us online at www.AustinENT.com page 19

ON TI

G IN

NS T

RU C

UN DE R

Come visit us at our new ofﬁce and discover why everyone is raving about the Prosper Experience!

Visit our website for more information and a complete list of homes for sale.

CALL MARC GOEBLER TODAY!

PROSPER

PROPERTIES

REALTY SERVICES

...I really appreciated the handwritten card the other day. There is a reason you are so successful and that is because you are working harder than the other guys out there...

(512) 587-1404 305 Railroad • Buda, TX 78610 *Located in Downtown Buda

www.ProsperProps.com Located in Downtown Buda

What people are saying about Prosper Properties....

-Kevin

Hey Marc, You really helped me out in a bind, my mortgages were going to explode with balloon payments due in June. You really really helped me out here and I just wanted to say that I appreciate it. I want to say THANK YOU for helping me and my wife. You and your whole team did a fantastic job and hopefully down the road we will be in a position to work together again. God Bless you and your family and your whole team. -Jim C

page 20 u june | 2015

Dear Sir, I want to inform you regarding the terriﬁc job that Amanda Rickman provided to us. She was always available, very professional and ALWAYS positive and pleasant. She did not only perform her required expectations but went above and beyond of what we, as home buyers, expected. She brought a personal touch that will not be forgotten. Buying a home can be stressful but she removed the stress with her cheerful demeanor. She is a excellent asset to your business and we want to let you know how much we appreciated her professionalism. Thank you. -Karen and Randy M.