March 2015 Hays County Echo

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HAYS COUNTY

ECHO MARCH 2015

Turning Texas wet

Local politico represents number one firm for local option elections in Texas

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE A publication of the News-Dispatch and the Hays Free Press

Daytrip Lockhart photo by Moses Leos III

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Hays County music scene thriving By Kim Hilsenbeck It used to be that to see good live music, folks headed north to Austin or south to New Braunfels. These days, a brewing music scene is beginning to explode right here in Hays County. Whether it’s Mercer Street, Main Street, Cheatham Street or Center Street —Hays County has much to offer. Up-and-coming groups are making names for themselves. The Texas Renegades from Wimberley, Texas Never Whispers out of Buda, and the Blue Water Highway Band in Kyle are just a few examples. Another local band, In the Works, played South by South West a few years ago. One of those band members, Augie Gmitter, is now playing at House of Blues in Dallas and Houston, in the band The Vanity. And the choices for where to go for live music are growing daily. Just to name a few, there’s Middleton Brewery, Cypress Creek Café and I’noz in Wimberley, Mercer Street Dance Hall in Dripping Springs, Milt’s BBQ, Central Texas Speedway and the soon-toopen Down South Rail House in

Kyle, and then there’s Tavern on Main and Willie’s Joint in Buda. And don’t forget about Old Settlers Music Fest coming up April 16-19 in Driftwood. Festival goers can catch sets by the Mavericks, Ray Wylie Hubbard, Robert Earl Keen, Sam Bush, Jake Shimabukuro, Hot Rize, Bill Kirchen, the McCrary Sisters, Shinyribs, Bruce Robison and Kelly Willis, along with Chuck Prophet, Jeff Austin Band and Johnnyswim. With the myriad choices of bands, venues and styles, there’s sure to be something for just about everyone in Hays County. Many venues are also kid-friendly with bands that play all age friendly tunes. Check out the April issue of Echo for a behind the scenes look at two local groups, Texas Never Whispers and Blue Water Highway Band. Both have recently released CDs — check out photos and video at www.haysfreepress. com.

photo by Katie Jameson Photography

Sculpting out a niche By Kim Hilsenbeck In an upcoming issue of Echo, we will take you to the heart of the Texas Hill Country for a close up look at the Sculpture Ranch and Galleries. First brought to the Texas Hill Country more than a decade ago by the artist Benini (who goes by just that name), the ranch is under new ownership. But its history is fascinating and the artwork deserves a look. Benini has been painting for more than 60 years. During that time, he’s lived in Italy (his birthplace), the Bahamas, Florida, Arkansas

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and Texas. He opened the ranch in the Mediterranean looking hills of Central Texas, though it originated in Florida. The new owners hope to keep his dream alive. The 140-acre ranch is now home to more than 110 large outdoor sculptures and many more paintings and sculptures inside. Located about six miles west of Johnson City, the ranch is open to the public every first weekend of the month. It’s also open by appointment and for special events. Be sure to read about the Sculpture Ranch and Galleries in an issue of Echo later this spring.

photo by Roland Haydel


EDITOR’S NOTE DEAR READERS: Each year about this time, I eagerly await warmer weather, longer days and the return of the wild flowers. No matter what kind of winter we had, those bluebonnets still pop up in my yard. And though I know the peak drought season and sizzling summer is not far away, I enjoy the heck out of spring. It’s also a great time to get out of the house and do something. Check out a few options in our Calendar of Events beginning on page 18. This month’s Day Tripping story on Lockhart, starting on page 6, offers some great reasons to get out of town to enjoy great BBQ and local history. For those inclined to go outside only as far as your garden, check out Chris Reid’s

Inside

article beginning on page 16. Warm spring evenings are also a great time to catch a live music show, maybe even have a beer while listening. Take a look at our preview of the Hays County music scene on page 2. Then next month, we’ll showcase several local bands. This month’s You do what? Series features John Hatch, a political consultant who helps with local option elections related to alcohol sales. His work in Hays County helped pave the way for other Texas municipalities to change their liquor laws. Read his story on starting on page 14. As always, thanks for reading Hays County Echo. Kim Hilsenbeck Editor

HAYS COUNTY

ECHO

is published monthly by Barton Publications, Inc 122 N. Main St., Buda, 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

Grub Buzz........................................................................................4-5 Where to eat in Hays County

Day Trip Lockhart/BBQ Breakdown.............................................6-11 Highlights of our historic town to the east as well as a digest of Lockhart’s four iconic barbecue joints and other favorites Black’s, Chisholm Trail, Kreuz’s and Smitty’s barbecue places were willing to show us their pits while touring the four different restaurants in the “Barbecue Capitol of Texas.” Photo taken at Smitty’s by Moses Leos III.

Marketing Tracy Mack Debbie Hall Suzanne Hallam Diana Kumm Paula Pulley Office Manager Connie Brewer For advertising information, please contact our sales department at 512-268-7862.

You Do What?..............................................................................14-15 Buda lawyer makes his living by turning Texas wet

Gardening for Fun, Food and Flowers........................................16-17 Don’t let excuses keep you from starting your spring garden

Central Texas Events..................................................................18-21

See page 16 for tips on spring gardening. (photo by Chris Reid)

Top picks for things to do

Service Directory........................................................................22-23 Find a service professional in your area

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Grub BBQ breakdown

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

208 CENTER STREET KYLE TEXAS

REAL PIT SMOKED BBQ

512-268-4734

See pages 8-9 for the breakdown on the four iconic barbecue locations in Lockhart, as well as comments from our readers about their favorite barbecue places in and around Hays County.

We Cater

208 W. Center St., Kyle, TX • 512-268-4734 Open Tuesday-Saturday, 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; and Sunday 12-7 p.m.

We now accept Visa, Discover, MasterCard and American Express

Where to dine in the gre page 4 u march | 2015


b Buzz

A dining guide for Hays County

FRIDAY SPECIAL

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

Ready for real New York style pizza?

We’ve got you covered!

No sauce. No forks. No kidding. GERMAN-STYLE BARBECUE RESTAURANT IN LOCKHART, THE BARBECUE CAPITAL OF TEXAS!

Business Hours: Monday - Saturday: 10:30 a.m. - 8 p.m. Closed Sunday Restaurant Hours: Monday-Thursday, 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday-Saturday, 10:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday, 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m.

110 Hwy 290 W (The Armadillo Building) Dripping Springs, TX (512)829-4157

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

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

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

eater Hays County area page 5


Daytrip Lockhart photos by David White

by David White

A

bout 15 miles south of the Austin City Limits lies the sleepy little town of Lockhart. It’s an out-of-the-way gem for weekend wanderers that want to take a trip back to a simpler time. A lot of the architecture, whether you’re in the downtown business area or driving through the neighborhoods, reflects the early 1900s era when the town came to fruition. So, what’s there to do in Lockhart? There are a handful of things that are definitely worth mentioning. There’s the Southwest Museum of Clocks and Watches, the Old Jail, and, of course, there are a handful of antique shops and retail shops on and around the square. Just about every business you walk into downtown, like Westy’s Pharmacy, is like a little museum with staff on hand to share the local history. Another must-see is the Caldwell County Courthouse, dubbed “the most photographed courthouse in Texas,” according to the Caldwell County Historical Commission. But apparently there seems to be an ongoing battle with that title. But let’s get to the meat of what Lockhart is all about – barbecue. If you’re standing on the square, you may get a waft of brisket, sausage and or chicken coming from any one of four iconic barbecue joints surrounding the downtown area – Black’s, Chisholm Trail, Kreuz’s and Smitty’s. See pages 8 and 9 for our breakdown on Lockhart barbecue.

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Southwest Museum of Clocks and Watches

Docent Danny Sweet explains the wooden clock’s place in American history before the advent of metal manufacturers.

The museum is also home of the original courthouse clock installed in the courthouse back in 1894.

This museum and watch/clock repair shop hosts a collection of timepieces representing over 300 years of horological achievements made in America, England, Scotland, France, Holland, Italy and Germany and include pieces like an English fusee skeleton clock, circa 1675; a longcase clock by Peter Stretch of Philadelphia, circa 1710; and a clock organ, formerly owned by P.T. Barnum, circa 1850. Horologist and docent Gene Galbraith decided to make Lockhart the home for his shop when he was commissioned to restore and maintain the Caldwell County Courthouse clock in 2006. The museum is located at 101 E. San Antonio Street and is open Saturdays from10 a.m.-4 p.m. and by appointment. Call (512) 658-3853 for more information.


12117 Manchaca Rd. @ FM 1626

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Caldwell County Courthouse Built in 1893 to replace the original courthouse, the building is constructed of sandstone, in the second empire style that was often used for buildings during this period.

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The Old Lockhart Jail The ‘Old Jail’, which now serves as the Caldwell County Museum, completed construction in 1909 and was in use until 1983. The first floor was used as living quarters which housed the sheriff of the time and his family and the upper floors were jail cells. It was traditionally the family’s duty to feed and care for the inmates above. There was no air-conditioning of any kind in the jail, so there were no windows, just bars. The small, dreary cells have very low ceilings and shared toilets and sinks. The top floor is the master suite of all the jail cells. It’s a little more spacious than the others, with better lighting and a better view. The museum is located at 315 E. Market Street and is open Saturdays and Sundays from 1 to 5 p.m. or by appointment, and there’s a $2 admission.

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Lockhart

BBQ photos by Moses Leos III

breakdown

Kreuz by the numbers • 200 briskets cooked per week • 2,000 to 3,000 sausage rings sold per week • 60 pounds of pork ribs cooked in a day • 114 – number of years the fire at Kreuz’ has been continuously burning • 8 active BBQ pits at Kreuz

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he Texas Senate and House of Representatives have each declared Lockhart the Barbecue Capital of Texas. So really, we might as well refer to Lockhart as the Barbecue Capital of the World. And there are four barbecue restaurants that put Lockhart on the map: Black’s, Chisholm Trail, Kreuz’s and Smitty’s. So, out of the four greatest barbecue joints in the world, the Hays County Echo decided to see how the competition stacks up. We took an informal and random poll of business owners, residents and travelers, and while each person had a firm opinion on their personal favorite, there was no overall champion. Just depends on what you like. Some opinions were swayed by variety in side items, some strictly on the quality of the meat, and some by cost. Here, we’ve digested the highlights of the top restaurants, along with some delicious barbecue.

Kreuz’s Market 619 N. Colorado Street Kreuz’s Market was started in 1900 by Charles Kreuz as a meat market and grocery store in the location that is now Smitty’s. It was a tradition for customers to buy their barbecue and sausage wrapped in butcher paper, as well as some produce and bread to go with it, and eat it off the butcher paper, usually with their hands and a pocket knife. There were no utensils... and no sauce. In 1999, the popular barbecue business moved from its original home of 99 years to a newer and bigger facility a quarter mile north of the old location. Along with the new building came some additions to the menu, including pork spare ribs, beans, German potato salad, sauerkraut, and a new jalapeno cheese sausage. But some things never change – they still don’t serve sauce or forks.

Chisholm Trail Barbecue 1323 S. Colorado Chisholm Trail is the new kid on the block when it comes to Lockhart barbecue. It was established by Floyd Wilhelm in 1978 when he sold his fishing boat and followed his dream to open a restaurant. While overshadowed by some of the more historical barbecue joints in the broader limelight, Chisholm Trail seems to be more popular with the locals, and that’s probably due to the very reasonable prices and huge selection of sides.

By the numbers... • 4,000 to 5,000 Pounds of brisket ordered per week* • 2,500 Pounds of sausage ordered per week* • 300 to 400 Pounds of ribs ordered per week* • 1,600 to 1,800 pounds of potatoes/week, all peeled by hand* • Half a cord of wood used per week* *Estimates

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Smitty’s Market 208 S. Commerce

Barbecue has been continuously served from this location since 1926. Smitty’s daughter, Nina Schmidt Sells, has stuck with the serving traditions of her father and prior owners. Meats come served on butcher paper and the traditional side items include onion, avocado, tomato, pickles and cheese, your choice of bread or crackers and a plastic knife. The sides are simple, and it’s a trademark for these local barbecue purists, but they did recently add potato salad, cole slaw and Grandpa Smitty’s beans (a secret family recipe) to the menu.

Black’s Barbecue 215 N. Main Street Black’s is the oldest restaurant in Lockhart continuously owned by the same family – since 1932. This restaurant gets good marks on all counts – quality meat, good variety of sides and desserts and a homey ambience that pulls you back into the warmth of yesteryear. Four generations of Black’s have run the family business and most of those generations are still represented on staff today.

By the numbers • 12,000 pounds of brisket per month* • 25,000 sausage rings per month*

CORRIDOR PRIMARY CARE PEDIATRICS AND INTERNAL MEDICINE

Pediatrics

601B Leah Ave., 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., C.P.N.P. Angela Wampler, R.N., C.P.N.P.

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Internal Medicine 601A Leah Ave., 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

Satellite location in Kyle (Pediatrics only) 181 Kirkham Circle (Plum Creek Square)

Providing a continuum of quality health services in San Marcos and Central Texas for over 20 years page 9


Meat that competes

Milts!! Am and amazin

–Kathy

In Hays Cou The Salt L In Lockhar Chisholm T

–Amanda McD

photo by Moses Leos III

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Eagle Mountain

We asked Hays Free Press and News-Dispatch Facebook followers what their favorite barbecue places were and why. Here’s what they had to say.

Kreuz one and only! –Maria Trini Torres

Amazing food mazing owners:)

Out of 40 commenters, these were their favorite barbecue places in and around Hays County...

athy Moore

County.... alt Lick khart ... lm Trail McDaniel

Best Que in the world: Hays County Barbeque in San Marcos... and I was raised on Kreuz/Smitty’s – Eric Gomez

Luling City Market, Chisholm Trail, Smitties. In that order. –Michael G. Chance

Milt’s (10) Smitty’s (10) Hays Co. BBQ (9) Luling City Market (5) Salt Lick (3) Chisholm Trail (2)

Flags & Flagpoles Patriotic Gifts Knives & Cutlery

Honorable Mentions Black’s Fuschak’s Kent Black’s BBQ Kreuz’s Lightning J’s Railroad BBQ San Marcos BBQ Snow’s in Lexington

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

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YOU DO WHAT?

Hatching a plan for liquor laws Buda consultant makes his living by turning Texas wet by Kim Hilsenbeck

the time,” Hatch said. “Billy Gray (who was on the Buda City f it wasn’t for John Hatch, an Council at the time) approached election consultant, H-E-B me. He said, ‘H-E-B wants to may never have moved to move to Buda, they have propBuda in 2000. And local resierty already.’” dents in that town and its neighHatch said the liquor sales bor to the south, Kyle, might issue was a deal breaker for the not have passed chain. ballot initiatives in “They can go one 2012 and 2013 that mile north in Austin, WHAT DOES expanding existing sell beer and wine; liquor laws. one mile south in LOCAL OPTION Hatch, who lives in Kyle, sell beer and MEAN? Buda, is a partner in wine,” Hatch said. In Texas, entire Texas Petition Strat“How do we fix counties, egies, the firm that this?” Gray asked. individual cities, or single has helped hundreds Michael Thames justice of the of municipalities in and John Sanford peace (judicial) the state with local plus Hatch and Gray precincts have option elections. formed a committee local control We spoke with to get the liquor laws over what types him recently about changed in Buda. of alcoholic his job as a conHe then ignited beverages sultant in liquor a campaign to concan be legally elections. vince local residents sold in their communities. His consulting to not only put the firm was involved issue on the ballot in 17 communities but to vote for it. statewide in local They had to get 35 liquor options just in the 2012 percent of all registered voters General Election cycle. to sign the petition. But for the Hatch said Buda and Kyle play first two weeks, they couldn’t tell a big role in getting laws passed anyone H-E-B was planning to in other parts of Texas. open a store. Eventually, they “I don’t think people realize had to because potential signers it,” he said. were skeptical. Hatch, who helped with the He and his team knocked on first liquor proposal in Buda in doors and attended town hall 1999, recalled how the H-E-B meetings. Their persistence paid grocery store chain wanted to off. The vote tally was 1,268 for, locate in Buda, but wanted to 292 against. sell beer and wine in its store. H-E-B made the move. Buda’s laws at the time didn’t Hatch said Gray, who later allow for beer and wine sales at ran for mayor of Buda, was able grocery stores. to tell voters, “I brought you “I lived in Mountain City at H-E-B.”

I

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Above are two of the many political action committees John Hatch (bottom left of bottom photo) has put together to gather petitions for local option elections across Texas.

Another important result of changing the law and bringing the store to town was on the financial side. The H-E-B scenario helped Hatch show other municipalities across the state how he could produce campaigns that would win elections. “I tell people all over the state how the change in the law affected Buda,” Hatch. “There was no easy place to see how much these elections benefit or have economic impact in a town.” It took 18 months for H-E-B to open, which took place Dec. 13, 2000. “The Buda sales tax (revenue) that year was $450,000,” Hatch said. “In 2001, the tax receipts were $970,000. That’s a 117 percent increase.” Hatch said that was before Wal-Mart, Cabela’s and McDonald’s opened. There were also no hotels in Buda yet. “Not all of that revenue is

from liquor sales, of course,” Hatch said. “But it was a huge boost in the overall economy,” allowing H-E-B to open within city limits. “It's the best example of before and after that I know of in liquor sales.” The next logical question, of course, is, how did Hatch become the liquor law guru? “I moved to Buda in 1995 to run a congressional campaign Charles “Lefty” Morris, the Democratic nominee for Congress,” Hatch said. Ron Paul was his opponent. Morris lost in the general election, but Hatch kept at it, running election campaigns for prominent candidates including Ann Richards. But it was his work with Buda and Gray that really launched Hatch’s career in the liquor law arena. Today, Hatch says Texas Petition Strategies is the number


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“We’ve done 314 petitions to date; we’re now working in 151 individual jurisdictions.”

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–John Hatch, Texas Petition Strategies

one firm in the country that does local alcohol elections. “We’ve done 314 petitions to date; we’re now working in 151 individual jurisdictions,” he said. That accounts for about 37 percent all the alcohol elections in Texas in last 10 years. Hatch said his success rate is about 92 percent over the last three years; it’s 86 percent overall. While Hatch occasionally tackles other election issues – he was recently hired as a consultant to Billy Gray’s water maintenance firm that is involved with the hotly contested Electro Purification well project near Wimberley – he said alcohol local option elections are his forte. Hatch learned lessons over the past decade – sometimes the hard way. For example, getting signatures on petitions may sound easy enough, but election laws are very specific about how the forms are completed, and by whom. In one of the elections Hatch worked, he said, “We pre-print-

ed the petitions with all your information so people could see exactly how to write it.” A volunteer got lots of people to sign the petition but she filled out addresses for people. “The [entire] form has to be in the same writing,” Hatch explained. Hays County Election Officer Joyce Cowen had to throw out many of the signatures based on the law. That left Hatch short 16 signatures in Buda and 200 in Kyle. Lawsuits challenged the current election laws, including one where Hatch was the plaintiff; the results benefitted his work. Why is Hatch so successful? “It’s purely economics,” he said. “These laws allow municipalities to keep tax dollars at home, create jobs and have safer highways.” Hatch said opponents of expanded liquor laws say they will cause more drunk driving fatalities and that tax revenues from liquor sales aren’t that big. “The data doesn’t bear out the gloom and doom predictions,” Hatch said.

2015 512.295.5555 220 Main Street Buda, Texas 78610 budadental.com

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Gardening for Fun, Food and Flowers Don’t let these excuses stop you BY CHRISTINE REID

I

t’s no secret why people like to garden. Besides wanting to grow delicious vegetables or lovely flowers, people garden to spend time outdoors, to get some exercise, to relieve stress, to grow medicinal herbs or to have plants for wildlife. It might be more interesting to explore why people don’t garden. Maybe their grandparents made them weed the melon patch so many times one summer that they swore they’d never go near another garden. Or it could be that they don’t like getting dirt under their fingernails or they’ve decided that growing vegetables is just too difficult. Studies and surveys have revealed an assortment of reasons why some people haven’t been bitten by the gardening bug.

NOT ENOUGH TIME TO GARDEN Are there ever enough hours in the day for all that we want to do? It’s important to remember that we’re in charge of the clock. If we really want to do something, we can do it. Making and following a wellthought-out plan results in a more productive use of time, such as in gardening. In other words, you may have more time for gardening than you think, if you work efficiently.

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LACK OF GARDENING KNOWLEDGE Gardening is seldom taught in schools and families these days are more likely to gather around a computer screen than a garden bed. There’s help available, though. More gardening seminars are being held at extension offices, nurseries and local farms than ever before. With the internet, gardening information is always at your fingertips, any hour of the day or night. There are excellent books on Texas gardening in the libraries and bookstores. And the neighbor with the beautiful yard down the street would probably love to share tips about favorite varieties and gardening shortcuts. Gardeners are known for their generous natures!

NOT ENOUGH SPACE TO GARDEN On the face of it, this seems like a valid reason for not being able to garden. After all, you have to have some land to grow things in, right? If you have a sunny spot, you can grow in your yard, of course. But if you feel the soil just isn’t suitable, you can always put in some raised beds. There are also plots you can rent in community gardens. And don’t forget about container gardening. The point is, these are all legitimate garden spaces that are capable of producing food, flowers and herbs. Many gardeners use all of these methods and more.

Planting climbing edible plants like Malabar spinach can help save space in your yard.


First, make a plan. Keeping varieties of vegetables that do it small to start, maybe 4 feet well here and note the best square, situate your garden time of year to start them. in an area with full sun, 6 to 8 Water daily until seeds germihours, with some shade avail- nate and/or transplants are able for the plants that need established, then water less it, such as peppers. Make sure often but deeply. The health there’s a nearby water source. of your soil, the time of year You can use raised beds or and whether or not the plants grow in the ground or in conare mulched will dictate how tainers. If you’re gardening often to water. One of the in the ground and you don’t best things a gardener can do know what kind of soil you is to check the plants daily have, get a soil test. Keep in and see if they need watering mind that most soils in this or weeding. area are alkaline and need Mulch is a gardener’s best additional nitrogen. friend. Putting up to four Preparing the soil is very inches of shredded cedar important. Loosen soil to at mulch, hardwood mulch, least 8 to seed-free 12 inchhay or es when leaves growing around the in the plants inground. hibits weed You can growth, use a hoe, holds in shovel or moisture gardening and reguspade if lates soil you don’t temperahave ture. access to a An tiller. Clear organic the plantapproach ing bed is best for Handpick harmful insects off plants; of weeds you, the use organic insecticidal soaps or and rocks garden and sprays only when necessary. Praying and make wildlife. mantises, in general, are good for the walkways Use organic garden keeping harmful insects in so that you fertilizers check; however, they also eat some won’t com- beneficial insects. like fish pact the emulsion planting and follow area. Mix in any necessary the directions on the consoil amendments. Rememtainer. More is not better, ber that all soils benefit from in this case, at least! Plant added compost. It helps natives and herbs to attract improve drainage, water beneficial insects to the retention and adds nutrition. garden. Some easy herbs If gardening in raised beds, a to grow are basil, chives, good depth is 6 to 12 inches lemongrass, rosemary and of soil. yarrow. Handpick harmful If you have the space, insects off plants; use organic consider starting a compost insecticidal soaps or sprays pile, which is one of the best only when necessary. Every things you can do for your year you will learn more and garden. Keep it simple at the the garden will get better and beginning by just dedicating better. a sunny spot in the garden Think about what kind of where you can put plant trim- garden you’d like. Do you mings, kitchen scraps, leaves, want to grow food or flowers coffee grounds, etc. Leave out or herbs? Are you interested meat or dairy products! in attracting wildlife such Decide what you and your as bees, butterflies or birds? family like to eat and go from Once you’ve pinned down the there. Some easy crops to ‘why’ of gardening, the ‘how’ grow from seed are beets, is easier to achieve than you carrots, radishes, lettuce and may think. squash, among others. Some of the plants that are easier Any questions? Send an to grow from transplants are email to reidsnursery@gmail. tomatoes, peppers, broccoli com or call us at (512) 398and onions. Check out the 6011. Enjoy your garden!

Small raised beds, may be the way to go if you’re a beginning gardener with limited space. Just make sure your area gets at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day.

“If you have a garden and a library, you have everything you need.” –Marcus Tullius Cicero

GARDENING RESOURCES • Organic Texas gardening books by Howard Garrett and Malcolm Beck • Central Texas Gardener at www.klru.org/CTG • Local nurseries, county extension office, libraries • Texas Plant and Soil Lab for soil testing information: www.tpsl.biz • Gardening web sites: davesgarden.com, allthingsplants.com, and aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu

TEXAS LEHIGH Cement Company LP

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

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

see solution on page 23

page 17


Central Texas Festivals & Events Every Wednesday, 3-6 p.m. Wimberley Farmers Market The market provides fresh locally grown/raised foods and products from area farmers, ranchers and artisans. In the parking lot of the Senior Citizens’ Thrift Store at the corner of RR12 and River Road. Please call (512) 264-1637 for more information.

Now-July 3 San Marcos, Homegrown: Austin Music Posters, 1967 to 1982 The Witliff Collection’s at Alkek Library at the Texas State University campus is featuring more than 125 vintage pieces from poster artists of the 1960s, ’70s and ’80s. www. thewittliffcollections.txstate.edu, (512) 245-2313

Every First Saturday, March through December Wimberley Market Days

15 galleries around the Wimberley Square stay open late for Second Saturday Gallery Trail offering great art, wine and appetizers. www.Facebook.com/ SecondSaturdayGalleryTrail

Every third Thursday Wimberley, Susanna’s Kitchen Coffee House Concert Series

Ino’z presents live music on the outdoor deck overlooking Cypress Creek. www.inozwimberley.com 14004 RR 12, Wimberley, Texas 78676, (512) 847-6060

page 18 u march | 2015

Wimberley, Rockin’ A Ranch

The Wimberley Players present Wait Until Dark, a classic thriller. Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. 450 Old Kyle Road, Wimberley, Texas 78676, www.wimberleyplayers.org, (512) 847-0575

The Wimberley Community Civic Club’s Rockin’ A Ranch event at John Knox Ranch features BBQ and live music, 6-9 p.m. Reservations required. 1661 John Knox Ranch Road, www. wimberleyccc.org

Now-March 8 Fredericksburg, Fiddler on the Roof

The oldest half-marathon in Texas, Tanger Outlet Center, 4015 I-35 S. www.athleteguild.com/running/ san-marcos-tx/2015-moes-betterhalfmarathon (512) 396-2584

Now-May 5 San Marcos, The Face of Texas” The Witliff Collection’s at Alkek Library is also hosting photographer Michael O’Brien’s series of 48 portraits that captures the spirit of Texas. Alkek Library. www.thewittliffcollections.txstate. edu, (512) 245-2313

March 2 Gruene, Texas Independence Celebration

An authentic heart-and-soul tribute to the King at the Rockbox Theater. www.rockbox theater. com, (830) 997-7625

This exhibit at the Witliff Collections, 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

More than 475 booths filled with a wide variety of arts, crafts, antiques, gift items, clothing and more as well as food and live music. Lions Field, 601 FM 2325. www.shopmarketdays.com, (512) 847-2201

March 7, 9-14 Fredericksburg, Spring Break at The Pioneer Museum The museum features living-history demonstrations. Stroll through the historic buildings and visit with interpreters of historic life. Pioneer Museum. www.pioneermuseum. net, (830) 990-8441

EmilyAnn Theatre and Gardens, 1101 FM 2325. www.emilyann. org, (512) 847-6969

March 4-5 Fredericksburg, F Donny Edwards Elvis Tribute Show

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

March 7 Wimberley, Market Days

March 1-22 Wimberley, “Sleeping Beauty”

Gruene Historic District. www. GrueneTexas.com, (830) 629-5077

Now through February 22 Wimberley, Hamlet

Every weekend March through November Wimberley, Live music at Ino’z

Wait Until Dark

March 1 San Marcos, Moe’s Better Half Marathon

Featuring local and nationally known performers in concert. Doors open at 7 p.m. Wimberley United Methodist Church, Corner of RR 12 and CR 1492, (512) 847-3109

EmilyAnn Theatre and Gardens presents Hamlet, an indoor studio show. Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30pm and Sundays at 2 p.m. www.emilyann.org 1101 FM 2325, Wimberley, Texas 78676, (512) 847-6969

March 6

This Tony Award-winning musical will be playing at the Steve W. Shepherd Theater, 1668 S. Hwy 87. For more info, (830) 997-3588

Market Days is the oldest outdoor market in the Texas Hill Country and the second-largest in the state. Featuring over 475 booths. www.ShopMarketDays.com 601 FM 2325, Wimberley, TX 78676

Every Second Saturday Wimberley, Second Saturday Gallery Trail

Feb. 27-March 22

March 6 Fredericksburg, First Friday Art Walk Tour fine art galleries offering special exhibits, demonstrations, refreshments and extended viewing hours the first Friday of every month. Various locations throughout downtown. www.ffawf. com, (830) 997-6523

March 6-8 Dripping Springs Cutting Horse Show Dripping Springs Ranch Park, 1042 DS Ranch Road. (903) 520-1218

March 7, 14, 21 Boerne, Wings Over Boerne There will be outdoor bird-of-prey demonstrations by Last Chance Forever and an up-close look at hawks, owls, falcons and vultures. Demonstrations begin at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Boerne Visitors Center, 1407 S. Main. www. visitboerne.org, (830) 249-7277

March 8 Gruene, Gospel Brunch with a Texas Twist Serves awe-inspiring gospel music coupled with a buffet 10:30 a.m.-noon. Advance tickets recommended. Gruene Hall, 1281 Gruene Road. www.gruenehall. com, (830) 629-5077 or (830) 606-1601

March 8 Johnson City, Art, Wine and Live Music Enjoy local art and wine 1:304 p.m. on the second Sunday of every month. Taste Wine + Art, 213 N. Nugent St. www. TASTEWineArt.com (830) 8689290


March 11 Wimberley, Hound Dog Happy Hour Rocky River Ranch will host Hound Dog Happy Hour benefiting Wimberley Adoption Group and Rescue (WAG), 5-7 p.m. 100 Flite Acres Road, Wimberley, Texas 78676, www.wimberleywagrescue, (512) 917-5630

March 12-22 Austin, South by Southwest Filmmakers, musicians and multimedia artists from around the world converge to showcase music, film and interactive media. Various venues. www.sxsw.com

March 13-28 Ingram, “For This Moment Alone” Set in Toronto in 1948, this play is about a Jewish family struggling to recover from the horrors of the war in Europe finally has cause to rejoice. Hill Country Arts Foundation, 120 Point Theatre Road. www.hcaf.com, (830) 3675121

March 14 Boerne, Second Saturday Art and Wine Complimentary beverages and refreshments will be

served in various downtown galleries as visitors peruse the art. Various locations. www. secondsaturdayartandwine.com, (830) 249-7277

March 14-15 Boerne Market Days Hundreds of festive booths display everything from collectibles and nostalgia to modern innovations. Also enjoy food and live entertainment. Main Plaza, 100 N. Main. www.boernemarketdays. com, (830) 249-7277

March 14-15 Fredericksburg, Pacific Combat Living History Program

March 14-15 Fredericksburg, Texas Hill Country Home and Garden Expo

Grapevine Texas Wine Bar, 1612 Hunter Road. www.grapevinein gruene.com, (830) 606-0093

Gillespie County Fairgrounds. www. hillcountryhomeandgardenexpo. com (830) 992-2662

March 20-22 Fredericksburg, Trade Days

March 14-15 Gruene, Old Gruene Market Days Nearly 100 vendors offer uniquely crafted items and packaged Texas foods, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. in the Gruene Historic District, 1724 Hunter Road. www.gruenemarketdays.com, (830) 832-1721

March 15 
 Boerne, “102 Years of Broadway”

Come see a World War II battle re-enactment that includes guns, tanks and a flamethrower at the National Museum of the Pacific War Pacific Combat Zone. www. pacificwarmuseum.org, (830) 9978600 ext. 205

March 14-21 Fredericksburg, Texas Hell Week Bicycle Tour This event features 40- to 100-mile bicycle tours of Gillespie County. Headquarters are at Sunset Inn Motel. www.hellweek.com, (806) 683-6489

Broadway’s most celebrated shows will be featured by a cast of five Broadway stars re-creating the greatest moments from shows like “The Phantom of the Opera,” “Les Miserables,” “CATS,” “Jesus Christ Superstar” and “Jekyll & Hyde.” Champion High Auditorium, 210 Charger Blvd. www. boerneperformingarts.com, (830) 331-9079

March 19 Gruene, Come and Taste It Eleven wineries will be showcased with complimentary tastings of beer and wine. Hours are 5-8 p.m.

More than 350 vendors, beer and live music seven miles east of town off U.S. 290, 355 Sunday Farms Lane. www.fbgtradedays.com, (210) 846-4094

March 21 Fredericksburg, Annual LBJ Kite Day Come make an old-fashioned 1900s kite. Materials will be provided, or bring your own. Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site. www.tpwd. state. tx.us/state-parks/lyndon-b-johnson (830) 644-2252

March 21 Fredericksburg,Hill Country Indian Artifact Show Come see a plethora of Native American artifacts including arrowheads, beads and pottery at the Pioneer Pavilion at Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park. www. hillcountryindianartifacts.com (830) 626-5561

FESTIVAL & EVENTS, next page

Austin ENT gives back to the community!

SCHEDULE A HEARING TEST AND QUALIFY TO WIN A FREE SET OF HEARING AIDS! Free hearing aid raffle scheduled for April 13, 2015 luncheon during the Statesman Capitol 10k, sponsored by Phonak. Only Kyle and Lockhart locations.

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

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

All your ENT services in one location Austin ENT H-E-B Ky

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• 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

Amber Bass, Au.D, CCC-A

Austin Ear, Nose & Throat Clinic

Enjoy the Sounds of Life Again

1180 Seton Parkway, Suite 420 Kyle, TX 78640

(512) 268-5282

Pediatric and adult care

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

Ear, Nose and Throat Services Ear & Hearing

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

Children’s ENT

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

Thyroid and Parathyroid

Nose & Sinus

• Ultrasound and Needle Biopsy • Thyroid and Parathyroid Surgery

• CT Sinus Scans • Endoscopic Sinus Surgery • In-office Balloon Sinuplasty

Allergy

Throat, Head & Neck

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

• Sleep Apnea • Tonsil/Adenoid Surgery • Hoarseness

Head & Neck Cancer • Lymph Node Evaluation & Surgery • Mouth and Throat Cancer • Screening & Surgery • Salivary Gland Treatment & Surgery

Thomas Nowlin, MD

Mark Dammert, MD

Visit us online at www.AustinENT.com page 19


March 21 Dripping Springs, Fancy Feathers Poultry Show

March 28 Wimberley, 4th Annual Smokin’ Red Hot Chili Cook-off

March 28 San Marcos, Dick’s Classic Garage Car Show

This show features hundreds of breeds of poultry, contests, silent auction, raffles, food and a clucking contest. Dripping Springs Ranch Park, 1042 DS Ranch Road. www. fancyfeatherstx.org

At Lions Market Day Pavilion and hosted by Wimberley Community Civic Club, 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Reservations required. 601 FM 2325, Wimberley, Texas 78676, www.wimberleyccc.org

Compete for prizes with your classic car or just bring your friends and family to enjoy a good time. Food and live music. Dick’s Classic Car Garage, 120 Stagecoach Trail. www. dicksclassicgarage.com, (512) 878-2406

March 21-22 Austin, Artists and Artisans Festival Peruse art, wares and jewelry while enjoying the wildflowers as well, at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 4801 La Crosse Ave. www.wildflower.org, (512) 232-0100

March 27-29 Austin, Director’s Choice: One/The Body’s Grace and Luminaria This Ballet Austin performance includes Stephen Mills’ work “Luminaria,” to the music of Jordi Savall and Hespèrion XXI, and “One/The Body’s Grace” to the music of Johann Sebastian Bach and George Frideric Handel. 315 W. Third St. www.balletaustin.org, (512) 476-2163

March 28 Johnson City, Texas Men’s State Chili Cook-Off

March 28 Stonewall, LBJ 100 Bicycle Tour

This CASI-sanctioned cook-off includes a potluck Thursday, cooks’ party and entertainment Friday night, and turn-in at 1 p.m. Saturday. Enjoy arts-and-crafts vendors, a silent auction, domino tournament, contests for cooking beans and wings, and more at the Blanco County Fairgrounds, 619 U.S. 281 N. www.texasmenschili. org, (512) 567-2835

Cyclists can choose from five different routes through the scenic Texas Hill Country. The rides start on the LBJ Ranch air strip at 9 a.m. Registration includes supported rides with maps, rest stops, drinks, snacks and facilities and a post-ride lunch, plus a ranger-led tour of the Texas White House. LBJ National Park. www. lbj100bicycletour.org, (830) 8687128 ext. 222

March 28 Kyle, Hooked On Fishing Spring Fishing Tournament Open to all adults with a valid Texas Freshwater Fishing License, this unique fishing tournament will test your ability to catch qualifying species of fish in Lake Kyle: large-mouth bass, perch and channel catfish. Lake Kyle, 700 Lehman Road. www.cityofkyle. com/recreation/spring or www. kylepard.com, (512) 262-3939

March 28 Johnson City, Art Walk on Nugent Street This Art Walk will feature artist receptions at local galleries on Nugent Street, 213 N. Nugent St.

A US TI N

March 28-29 Johnson City, Bunkhouse Gallery and its’ 23rd Fine Art & Jewelry Exhibition & Sale Peruse paintings, pottery and jewelry while enjoying live music and wine by McReynolds Winery. A silent auction and raffle of an original painting benefits the Phoenix Center of Marble Falls. The artists’ reception is 2-6 p.m. Saturday.Sale hours are 11 a.m.6 p.m. Bunkhouse Gallery, 573 Old Spicewood Road in Cypress Mill. www.wenmohsranch.com, (512) 517-3453

March 28-29 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

March 28-29 Stonewall, Bluegrass, Bluebonnets and Barbecue Live music, food and Texas wine at the Becker Vineyards, 464 Becker Farms Road. www. beckervineyards.com, (830) 644-2681

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

A S S O C I A T I O N

3D mammography There’s a new dimension in breast imaging at ARA.

Introducing a breakthrough in the early detection of breast cancer. • Detects 41% more invasive breast cancers than standard mammography. • Reduces false positives by up to 40%. Talk to your doctor to see if 3D mammography is right for you. Schedule your 3D mammogram at www.ausrad.com or 512.453.6100. page 20 u march | 2015


How

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Compassionate Care Hospice of Central Texas Your Home Town Hospice Team

201 STILLWATER, SUITE 1, WIMBERLEY, TEXAS • 512-295-5333

Sambal Chicken Skewers

0% INTEREST FOR 90 DAYS Hill country chef Tom Saunders shares his personal recipe for Sambal Chicken Skewers

CHICKEN SKEWERS: • • • • • • •

1/2 cup packed light brown sugar 1/2 cup unseasoned rice vinegar 1/3 cup hot chili paste (such as sambal oelek) 1/4 cup fish sauce (such as nam pla or nuoc nam) 1/4 cup Sriracha 2 teaspoon finely grated peeled ginger 1 1/2 pounds skinless, boneless chicken thighs, cut into 1 1/2-inch–2-inch pieces • 8 bamboo skewers soaked in water at least 1 hour Prepare grill for medium-high heat. Whisk brown sugar, vinegar, chili paste, fish sauce, Sriracha, and ginger in a large bowl. Add chicken and toss to coat. Thread 4 or 5 chicken pieces onto each skewer. Transfer marinade to a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until reduced by half (about 1 cup), 7–10 minutes. Grill chicken, turning and basting often with reduced marinade, until cooked through, 8–10 minutes.

SAUTEED BRUSSELS: • • • • • • • • • •

5-Piece Dinettes

2 bags of sprouts trimmed and cut in half 1 onion diced 2 inches of ginger minced 2 garlic cloves finely chopped 2 tbsp vegetable oil 1-2 serrano chilis 1/4 cup chicken stock 2-3 tbsp soy sauce 1 lemon juiced small handful of brown sugar

On medium-high heat bring oil to temperature in large skillet or wok. Sautee onions to add color and sweat down, then add ginger and garlic, being careful not to burn your garlic. Add brussels and sautee until golden brown - add a pad of butter if you wish. Add chicken stock, soy sauce, lemon juice, and brown sugar, then reduce to a nice glazed consistency. Add 1 tbsp of sambal and mix. Serve over rice and salt and pepper to taste.

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first thursdays in downtown Buda

alive after five A FREE event hosted by the Downtown Buda Merchants’ Group

5-8 p.m. in Downtown Buda on the first Thursday of every month After-hours shopping, dining and enter tainment on Main Street Interested in becoming a First Thursday vendor? Contact Lysa Gonzalez at 512-295-7170.

shop * dine * stay * play

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Hays County Echo Service Directory AIR CONDITIONING

COMPUTER SERVICE

HOME REPAIR

LOCKSMITH

A&E Air Conditioning & Heating

A Computer Werks

The Handyman Can

Buda Lock & Key

$500 off complete system Free furnace special. Call for details. 512-312-9535 www.ae4cool.com

Business, residential or commercial Adware, spyware, malware, installations. Service, software, hardware and custom builds. 512694-1746 www.acomputerwerks.com

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.

30 years service experience Automotive, residential and commercial. Serving Travis, Hays and Caldwell counties. 512-295-2883 Toll Free 888-216-5625

Hays Technical Services

Steel Horse constructors

Want help selecting the best value? Office systems not maintained? Did your kids or employees leave your computer useless? mike@haystech.com

CONCRETE WORK

Serving Hays County and surrounding areas. Painting, remodels, carpentry, trim work, special design and more. Free estimate. References available. Call Jim ‘Blu’ Cooke at 512-7812911 or steelhorseconstructors@ gmail.com.

XEVEX Concrete Services

LAWN SERVICES

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

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

AUTOMOTIVE

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

AMM Collision Center

ELECTRICAL SERVICE

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

BUDA

Keen Electrical Service 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

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

page 22 u march | 2015

Who Does Your Lawn 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.

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, deceptive trade, landlord-tenant law, personal, injury, DWI, criminal defense, debt defense, general civil litigation 130 Hall Professional Center Kyle, Texas. 512-268-6425

PAINTING Chuck’s Painting and Remodeling Interior/exterior painting and repairs. References and reasonable rates. 512-944-2910

PAINTING 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 512-773-5592 www.ccsittertx.com

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

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

PrePlanning • aftercare Program • cremation traditional ServiceS • new Building

Buy One Ice Cream Treat, Get One Half Off With Coupon. Expires 3/31/15.

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REMODELING

SEPTIC SERVICES

APC Service, LLC

All American Wastewater Solutions, LLC

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

Fox Tile Inc. and Remodel Servics 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

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

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

TREE SERVICES

& First Month Cooler Rental FREE! • 5 & 3 Gal. Bottles • Coolers • .5 Liter Bottles • R/O Filtration • Private Label Avail.

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

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

Gil’s Tree Service Residential and commercial. Professional tree pruning, cabling, cavity filling, landscaping, ball moss removal, construction, repair. Member of National Arbonist Association, International Society of Arboriculture. Call for a free estimate, 512-221-6716

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866-691-2369 Sudoku solution, from pg. 17

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

ROOFING Area Roofing Company 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

2015 easter Photo Card Package

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HOO

provides quality services in your area? To advertise your business in the Hays County Echo Service Directory, call 512-268-7862

No Job Too Small

all your home improvement needs fully insured • complete home renovations

flooring, painting, pressure washing, tile, landscaping decks, carpentry and more

jonathon_micky@yahoo.com

Jonathon Greenberg, Owner member of the Chamber of Commerce

jonthehandyman.com page 23


Coming Soon Dripping Springs, large home with 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms on FIVE ACRES! Rainwater collection, RV hookups and AMAZING VIEWS! $280,000.

West Buda on ½ acre lot! 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, remodeled and updated! Buda Elementary, Dahlstrom Middle, Jack C. Hays High School. $200,000.

Mountain City Oaks, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, single story, granite kitchen counters and hard tile in all common areas. THIS HOME IS A SHOW STOPPER! Negley Elementary, Barton Middle, Jack C. Hays High School$300,000.

West Buda, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, 3 living areas, 2 dining areas, study. Masterfully landscaped back yard! Elm Grove Elementary, Dahlstrom Middle, Jack C. Hays High School. $260,000.

West Buda, custom home on ½ acre lot. 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, granite kitchen counters, wood laminate and hard tile flooring. HUGE workshop/barn in back. SPARKLING SWIMMING POOL! Buda Elementary, Dahlstrom Middle, Jack C. Hays High School. $250,000.

West Buda, large home on oversized corner lot. 5 bedrooms, 3 ½ bathrooms, 3 living rooms, 2 dining rooms. Buda Elementary, Dahlstrom Middle, Jack C. Hays High School! Resort-Style community pool and play area. $250,000.

East Kyle, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, single story. Convenient to interstate and shopping! Fuentes Elementary, Chapa Middle, Lehman High School. $147,000.

23 + acres in East Buda. Adjacent to Shadow Creek Subdivision. $500,000.

Round Rock ISD, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, single story. Fresh paint and new flooring throughout. $190,000.

Southeast Austin, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, completely remodeled with new roof, water heater, HVAC, flooring, plumbing fixtures, lighting fixtures, counters, it’s all done! $150,000.

FOR LEASE. Historic home in downtown Buda. 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, real hard wood floors and chock full of charm! Buda Elementary, Dahlstrom Middle, Jack C. Hays High School. $1450/month.

HOT HOT HOT South Austin, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 2 dining areas single story on cul-de-sac lot. Granite kitchen counters, hard tile and wood laminate flooring. $300,000.

FOR LEASE. East Kyle, 4 bedrooms, 2 ½ bathrooms with master downstairs. Granite, custom tile. Beautifully landscaped yard with SPARKLING SWIMMING POOL! Tobias Elementary, Wallace Middle, Lehman High School. $1700/month.

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

CALL MARC GOEBLER TODAY!

PROSPER (512) 587-1404 PROPERTIES

REALTY SERVICES

SAVE THE DATE: March 5-6

Please support your local Onion Creek Senior Center in the 24-hour AMPLIFY AUSTIN fundraiser. Visit onioncreekseniorcitizens.org to donate.

What people are saying about Prosper Properties....

204 S Main St. • Buda, TX 78610

www.ProsperProps.com Located in Downtown Buda

Working with Marc and his team really makes the home buying experience a joy! He perfectly strikes the balance between persevering to find the right home/land choice based on his clients criteria, and being flexible if someone changes direction and wants to look for something new. He is wellversed in everything from elements of land acquisition, construction materials on existing structures, the gamut of style choices in homes, and more. When it comes to friendly, knowledgeable, and experienced Realtors, Marc is on the top of my list! :^)


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