Bastropian by Texas Press Association

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The Bastropian 2012-13

Index

Advertisers directory........................... 94 Antiques ............................................... 58 Bus routes ............................................. 46 Churches ............................................. 91

County Guide ......................................... 6 County Map .......................................... 55 Dining ..................................................... 80 Entertainment ....................................... 30 Events ..................................................... 22

History ..................................................... 42 Introduction ............................................. 5 Libraries .................................................. 40 Local government .................................. 6 Lodging .................................................. 88

A message from Susan Wendel

Museum .............................................. 36 Outdoors .............................................. 9 Schools .................................................. 6 Shopping ............................................ 60 Walking tour ....................................... 44

ommerce amber of C Bastrop Ch as 78602 astrop, Tex B , t. S n ai 927 M 58 (512) 303-05

2012-2013

Susan Wendel President and CEO Bastrop Chamber of Commerce

Visitors Information Bastrop County Chambers of Commerce BASTROP Bastrop Chamber of Commerce 927 Main St., Bastrop, Texas 78602 Phone: (512) 303-0558 Fax: (512) 303-0305 www.bastropchamber.com ELGIN Elgin Chamber of Commerce 114 Central Ave., Elgin, Texas 78621 Phone: (512) 285-4515 Fax: (512) 281-3393 www.elgintx.com

12 the numas 1832 - 20 ready selected al e av e h Bastrop, Tex u yo r helping th tropian, . Thanks fo d ing The Bas n u ad o re ar e e ar id u ors Gu r. Since yo tywide Visit Hi, neighbo ce. go, but ensive coun h re erful existen p d m n o the BEST lo co w st in s o it d m f te o e, s ec n fl o ar re ber 180 ye ong with that are op celebrate the north, al to are the cities e as ad ex cD T , M City of Bastr lle e county that aige and in, Smithvi ped shape th ose limits. P el th h Bastrop, Elg d as n h o soil to ey at b th r istory ltivated the unty goes fa incredible h Rosanky cu an d f s now an o Bastrop Co ie e it gs n n n ck u so o e comm Rock, R sing the t. All of thes Creek, Red n muniCamp Swift, se ar m re ed p co C d er p. an o th Bastr es and o at ations past st er n er ge th r o s, fo is present day e iv untrie unty product from other co nity. make the co immigrants to g n our commu lli ca ge allenges to Austin. ch as opd sh se provide a hu an o s cl ew n ge as d an azing ch unities an exas - and T m am m ss t co ro gh g u ac n O ro si es . b ti e area ur ew hou years have onomy of th rovements, n p ec d im it an The past few 71 e at ay w im h citizens, but ness cl building, Hig e for all our ged the busi lif an if b o ch y ly am Wildfires, re it al d al ic u an q charm ced the have dramat t our historic ee ity has enhan in tr S er ping centers ta n n sp ai ai ro m p M d owth an e a Texas allowed us to am ec as b h e ro at w P t th continued gr pmen ly since aged in a way itage Develo n dramatical er H ow y gr it n as u has been man h m ry Com urism indust ommission’s hville ence. The to Historical C as ex T in and Smit e th f re at the Elg su ways City, part o al m e I’ w d d an an tropians, ommerce, as C B f o e. re tu er b fu gram. G isitors uid who are astrop Cham p County V ith travelers o w tr r as We at the B ay fo B d p , y o n er tr ia t in Bas Bastrop joy visiting ev 7 Main Stree us tool, The 92 lo at ve chambers, en d ar te m ca is lo ffice, copy of th e chamber o give them a to stop by th et ion. rg at fo rm t fo n’ o in Enjoy! D ther area o d an s ap nty m city and cou M s Wendel, IO Susan Weem O E dC President an

SMITHVILLE Smithville Area Chamber of Commerce 100 First St., Smithville, Texas 78957 Phone: (512) 237-2313 www.ci.smithville.tx.us www.smithvilletexas.net

The Bastrop Advertiser Texas’ Oldest Weekly Newspaper Since March 1, 1853 Semi-Weekly Since Sept. 5, 1977

The Bastropian 2012-13 is the official visitors and newcomers guide published annually by The Bastrop Advertiser. Copies of the guide are available throughout the year while supplies last at The Bastrop Advertiser office, chamber of commerce offices and selected businesses and points of interest. The Bastrop Advertiser is published on Thursdays and Saturdays by Austin Community Newspapers, a division of Cox Newspapers at The Bastrop Advertiser, P.O. Box 459/908 Water St., Bastrop, TX 78602. Phone: 321-2557, Fax: 321-1680 / Office hours: 8 a.m. to 5 pm. Monday through Friday. The Bastropian is a copyrighted publication of The Bastrop Advertiser.

On the cover The old iron bridge in downtown Bastrop is a gathering place for locals and visitors alike.

News: news@bastropadvertiser.com Retail Advertising: Debbie.Denny@coxinc.com Classified Advertising: classifieds@bastropadvertiser.com Advertising Deadlines for Thursday: 3:00 p.m. Fridays for the following Thursday Advertising Deadlines for Saturday: 3:00 p.m. Wednesdays for the following Saturday Deadlines subject to change for designated holidays

Editor: Cyndi Wright Advertising: Debbie Denny Assistant Editor: Terry Hagerty Sports Editor: Chris Dukes Staff Writer: Erin Green Classifieds, Subscriptions: Ginny Pickering Production: Angel Rosa

The Bastropian 2012-13

county guide Four great school districts, plus government info The largest of the four school districts in Bastrop County is the Bastrop Independent School District which serves the communities of Bastrop, Cedar Creek, Red Rock, Rockne, Paige and some other unincorporated areas. The district spans 433 square miles. The other three districts are Elgin, Smithville and McDade.

Bastrop ISD

BISD is approximately 30 miles southeast of Austin in the heart of the Lost Pines area of central Texas. The district includes Bastrop High School, Cedar Creek High School, Genesis High School, an alternative high school two middle schools, two intermediate schools, six elementary schools, a state of the art facility, the Jerry Fay Wilhelm Performing Arts Center, and Bastrop Memorial stadium which is home to the Bears and Eagles athletic programs. Call (512) 321-2292 or visit www.bastrop.isd.tenet.edu for more information.

Elgin ISD

The Elgin school district is comprised of more than 168 square miles in portions of Bastrop, Lee and Travis counties. The district is located approximately 22 miles east of Austin and is in the Region 13 Education Service Center area. There are three elementary schools, one middle school and one high school and one alternative campus. Call (512) 281-3434 or visit www. elginisd.net for more information.

council includes Mayor Terry Orr, Council Members Joe Beal, Ken Kesselus, Kay Garcia McAnally, Dock Jackson and Julie Hart, all elected from the city at large. City Manager Mike Talbot is responsible for all city government functions, including delivery of electric, water and wastewater utility services. He also oversees all city departments including the parks, police, library, storm water drainage, streets and alleys, and other administrative functions. Recently the city opened a new city hall and convention and exhibition hall. For more information on the city visit www.cityofbastrop.org or call (512) 332-8800.

Smithville ISD

Smithville ISD includes an early childhood school (pre-k -2nd grade, an elementary school, one junior high and one high school. Call (512) 237-2487 or visit www.smithvilleisd.org for more information.

McDade ISD

The McDade school district is the smallest district in Bastrop County, serving the northeastern community of McDade. The district’s highest grade level is 8th grade; high school students in McDade attend school in Bastrop or Elgin. McDade’s students attend school on one campus. Call (512) 273-0292 or visit www.mcdadeisd.info for more information.

Government Bastrop

More than 30 years ago the city of Bastrop adopted the council-manager form

Elgin

of municipal government. The city council hires an executive to administer all day to day city services according to the policies set by the five-member council plus the mayor. Beginning in 2002 Bastrop became a home rule charter city which was approved by local voters in 2000 after the town’s population surpassed 5,000. The current

The county’s largest city, Elgin is also a home rule charter city and has an interim city manager, Greg Vick. He is guided by a mayor and eight-member council elected by single-member districts in four wards. City hall is located at 310 North Main St. The main contact number is (512) 281-5724 and more information can be obtained online at www.elgintx.com .

Smithville

Smithville is a general law city governed under state laws with a council-manager

form of government. Tex Middlebrook is the city manager who works for the mayor and five-member city council. City hall is located at the corner of Main and Fourth streets. More information can be found at www. ci.smithville.tx.us.com or the main contact number at (512) 237-3282

Bastrop County

Bastrop County government is led by an elected county judge and four commissioners who set policy and serve as the commissioners court. This rule-making body also oversee county road maintenance and construction in specific territories. Interim Judge Jim Wither is the chief administrative officer. Other elected officials include the County Clerk, District Attorney, County Court At Law Judge, District Judge, Sheriff, District Clerk, Treasurer, Tax Assessor-Collector, 4 Constables, 4 Justices of the Peace, and an Auditor. A central point of contact for the county judge is (512) 332-7201 and (512) 332-4000 for the county commissioners. The courthouse complex is located at the corners of Pine, Pecan and Water Streets. Other information can be obtained at the county website www.co.bastrop.tx.us.

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The Bastropian 2012-13

Welcome Plenty to do for fun while visiting Bastrop County Bastrop offers a wide variety of fun things to do, including some that are a little quirky. But are all activities you can do for little or no expense. Try out some possibilities from the following list that local well-known historian and author Ken Kesselus helped compile. n Follow Water Street south until it passes under the bridge. At the top of the hill, stop and go over the very high river bluff and enjoy the view. Just south is the place where the old San Antonio Road crossed the Colorado and provided the impetus for the town of Bastrop. Pretend you are Stephen F. Austin in 1821, seeing this place on his first trip to Texas and envisioning it as a great place to build a town. n Beginning to work your way back north, go under the bridge and stop at Ferry Park. Swing while contemplating what the big art piece might represent. n Turn left onto Main Street and continue north toward the old business district. Visit the museum for an inexpensive entry fee. Find out about the Wilbarger Scalping and the legend surrounding it and look for the funky hair art. Be sure and check out the site for the new museum and visitors center on the corner of Main and Pine streets. n Check out the old buildings and imagine what the area would have looked like before automobiles and electricity changed the complexion of what was the only location of businesses 100 years ago. n Go into the Book Basket and tell them Ken sent you. Buy an inexpensive copy of Bastrop According to Ken: Vol. I. n Stop in the visitor’s center in the old 1890 First National Bank building. Go up to the cage and practice pulling a bank heist. Try to figure out why the place was never robbed. Ask if they have information about bridge spitting. Pick up a copy of the narrative for the Medallion Walk. n Continue north a few blocks to Tracy’s Drive in Grocery, at the Cedar Street intersection. Check out the interesting decor of this six-decades-old institution. Ask the clerk to cut off a hunk of rat cheese to munch on while observing the interplay between workers and customers. Ask who is Tracy’s favorite nephew. Before you leave, buy a banana and a package of saltine crackers (broken down from a regular box of four and sold cheap). You will need these for the next two activities. n Retrace your route to Farm Street and turn right. Head down the hill to Fisherman’s Park. Follow the road to the river

Be sure and check out the wild chickens around the Farm Street Historic Chicken Sanctuary. and find some very fat ducks, being careful because the city council has declared

them “protected fowl.” Open the box of crackers and begin feeding. Walk up-

river a few hundred yards to find a small sand bar. Have a rock skipping contest. n Go back to the corner of Main and Chestnut streets for a break at Lock Drug. Step up to the old-time fountain. Present your banana and ask them to make a banana split for you. n Get out your copy of the narrative for the Medallion walk along Chestnut Street. Start at Main and walk east, noting the unique designs on the medallions and reading about the history they represent. See if you can spot any mistakes. When you reach the city hall, stop in for a bathroom break and to see the photos on the wall. Cross the street to check out the convention center and follow the north-side medallions on your way back to Main Street. n Continue west of Main, walking out on the old 1924 bridge. Holler something funny at the people on the river walk below. Imagine what you would have seen standing there during the 1935 flood when water came within a few feet of the road bed. Go out over the water and spit into the river. (Be careful to miss kayakers and tube-floaters.) Later, ask a resident if this qualifies you for membership in the International Society of Bridge Spitters, of which Opie Taylor is the international Chief Expectorator. n Go east on Farm Street and check out the area between the railroad tracks and Highway 95. Look for the wild, ownerless chickens running loose. These are objects of a 2009 controversy that resulted in the city council’s passing a special ordinance protecting them from harm. Note the name of the street you are on. Take a picture standing under the banners that proclaim this street a n Go to the big First National Bank Building in the Tractor Supply shopping center west of the river. Study the cool 1906 map of Bastrop County in the entryway. Inside, marvel at the fabulous historical mural. Find at least one object that is depicted twice and ask a customer to show you the likeness of the current bank president and his predecessor. Ask a teller to exchange a dollar for four quarters. n Return to Main Street and find four local citizens. Give each one of the quarters and tell them all you are visiting the town and this is a tangible example of how tourism pays off. Make notes about how their reply so after you get home you can mail a letter to the editor of the Advertiser revealing what they said and how you enjoyed your wacky experience in Bastrop.

The Bastropian 2012-13

outdoorS The Colorado offers wealth of recreational fun The Colorado River is an exceptional place to “get away from it all,” even for those whose sense of adventure is limited to a hike through bordering parks. Whether strolling along the June Pape River Walk at Fisherman’s Park in Bastrop or fishing off the pier at Smithville’s Riverbend Park, the beauty of the Colorado is easily accessible. It’s such an alluring river, in fact, that a portion of the river was recognized in 2007 as the El Camino Real Paddling Trail by Texas Parks and Wildlife. In 2008, the Wilbarger Trail, a new section of the paddling trail, was dedicated. The trail flows through a unique geological formation that bisects the Calvert Bluff just upstream from Bastrop.

The Colorado River is rated as a Class I river, meaning it has very few hazards and is appropriate for beginners – there are no severe whitewater rapids or other major hazards, but there are a few points in the river where the water moves swiftly or where there are minor rapids, or where a downed tree that has fallen into the river may cause some trouble. There are a variety of different trip lengths available that are short enough to be appropriate for tubing, a popular Texas pasttime. But most trips are too long for a tube and a canoe or kayak is the preferred method. Both allow easy maneuvering through the gentle waters and offer an excellent opportunity to “sneak up” on

wildlife since there are no motors. The banks are, for the most part, heavily wooded, meaning that the sounds of the city soon disappear and are replaced by the calls of birds and the rippling of the water. The roads that cross the river, or come near to it, are few and far between and it is easy to feel instantly transported to another time. While the banks of the river are private property, there are occasional gravel bars and islands that offer an opportunity to get out and stretch the legs or spend an overnight campout. The time of the trips varies with the speed of the river flow and the length of the trip. There are five- and six-mile trips that take a few hours, 14-mile trips

that can take most of a day and even 26or 38-mile trips that generally require planning for an overnight campout somewhere along the way.

El Camino Real Paddling Trail

This paddle trail was officially named in 2007, but it has always been a beautiful float and the perfect ride for those looking for a half day or so on the river. Only three other cities in Texas have received the prestigious trail designation. The El Camino Real Paddling Trail is a curved six miles, starting at Fisherman’s Park and ending at Lost Pines Rec-

See OUTDOORS, page 10

The Colorado River is one of Bastrop’s most popular destinations. Recreational and competitive canoeists can be often seen enjoying the river.

The Bastropian 2012-13

outdoors Continued from page 9 reational Trails near Tahitian Village. The El Camino Real Trail connects with the 14-mile Wilbarger Paddling Trail, which originates at the FM 969 bridge in Utley and will connect with the fourmile Red Bluff Paddling Trail, which will start at Lost Pines Recreational Trails and end in ColoVista. The paddle trail is named for the El Camino Real de los Tejas, a land trail running between Mexico and Nacitoches, La., more than 300 years ago. The trail, which crossed the Colorado River at Bastrop, was well-beaten by such historical figures as Moses Austin and his son, Stephen F. Austin, Jim Bowie, Davy Crockett and Sam Houston. This trail was made possible through a partnership between Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, city of Bastrop, Bastrop Economic Development Corporation, Bastrop Visitor Center, Bastrop County Water Control and Improvement District No. 2, Discover the Lost Pines, Rising Phoenix Adventures, Environmental Stewardship, Pines & Prairies Land Trust and LCRA. To learn more about the paddling trails, just head to www.tpwd.state. t x .us/fishboat/boat/paddlingtrails/ inland/bastrop or www.lcra.org./community/ecodev/crt/river_users_guide. html.

Planning a river trip

One of the most important elements of any river trip is planning. Here are some hints that might make your trip more enjoyable: n Consider the weather when planning your river trip. Texas weather can change rapidly, particularly during the spring. Floods can occur quickly. The National Weather Service broadcasts continuous weather information, but to receive these transmissions you need a special weather radio. Frequencies used for broadcasts are 162.400 from Austin to Bastrop, 162.500 from Bastrop to Eagle Lake. 162.425 from Eagle Lake to the Gulf. n Obtain as much information as possible about the stretch of river you wish to boat or canoe. Large-scale USGS topographic maps and aerial photographs are available from a number of sources including government agencies, particularly the Texas Natural Resources Information System (TNRIS) and map stores. n Call the LCRA for recorded lake and river information at 512-473-3333 or 1-800-776- 3333. This information can be used to determine if releases are being made from upstream dams to esti-

There are four entry/exit points along the Colorado River. mate how long your trip may take. n Decide on the length of your float trip and identify legal access points for launching and take out. For most people, 10 river miles are more than enough for a day trip. Know your abilities and limitations. Always plan to complete your run by dark.

n Be sure to lock vehicles at both putin and take-out locations and don’t forget your car keys. Become familiar with your take-out location by walking down to the river and taking note of signs or other landmarks. Whenever possible, talk to someone who has previously run that stretch of river.

n Do not travel alone. If possible, have at least two boats per outing. At the same time, try to avoid mixing faster craft with slower ones. Always let someone know where you are going and your approximate return time. n Leave your pets, firearms and valuables at home.

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The Bastropian 2012-13

outdoors

Two state parks offer multiple opportunities Bastrop Park

State

IF YOU GO

Anyone looking for a nice and easy Located on Highway 21 weekend getaway can and Loop 150 look to Bastrop State Phone: 512-321-2101 Park, located east of downtown Bastrop on Hours: Open year round Highway 21 for hiking, Park fees: $4 per day, per perpicnicking, swimming, son 13 years and older; $2 per golfing and more. day, per person 13 and older The park rests on for restricted use. Group adult 5,926 acres in the famous Lost Pines, an entrance fee is $2. Season isolated timbered repasses are available for $60 gion of loblolly pine, per person and $75 per family. cedar and oak trees. Activities: Camping, fishing, Built during the biking, swimming, golf, hiking, 1930s, mostly with labor from the Civilian and wildlife viewing. Cabins Conservation Corps, are available and start at $80 designs for Bastrop per night for a two person State Park set the basic cabin. Free wi-fi internet style for all other Texas state parks. access is available. On Sept. 4, 2011, the park was closed due to the Bastrop County Complex fire, which ultimately burned 96 percent of the park’s land; the cabins and most other structures within the park were threatened, but ultimately saved. Before the fire, the park had started a series of capital improvement projects to replace roofs, improve accessibility and upgrade facilities and infrastructure to the park’s cabins and camping facilities. Each of the 14 cabins in the park come equipped with air conditioning, fireplace, kitchen with microwave, refrigerator, stovetop, waist-high grill outside and a bathroom with sink, toilet and shower. The cabins also have new roofs, which were redone after the fire. The cabins accommodate two to six people each; one cabin is now fully ADA accessible. Reservations can be made in advance by calling the state’s central reservation system at 512-389-8900. Other facilities have tent and RV camping areas with ADA accessibility and upgraded bath and toilet facilities. Visitors will also find an 8.5-mile hiking trail with primitive camping permitted without fires. The Lost Pines Lodge accommodates eight people in air-conditioned and heated comfort. The lodge has a stove, refrigerator, oven and bath facilities. For larger groups, a group camp is available which can accommodate up to 90 people. The facility includes four dorms. A heated combination dining and recreation hall with a 90-person capacity is furnished with tables, chairs, refrigerator, stove and outside barbecue pit. The park also features a 365,000-gallon swimming pool, which has a new liner; the poolhouse features a new roof and new showers. A snack bar can be found inside the pool facility and there are picnic tables nearby. The park has opportunities for backpacking, camping, picnicking, hiking, biking, canoeing and fishing. A 10-acre lake at the park is stocked with perch, bass and catfish for anglers of all ages to test their skills. A fishing license and entrance fee is required. For more information, call Bastrop State at 512-321-2101 or call park information toll-free at 1-800-792-1112.

100 Park Road 1E, Smithville, 78957 Phone: 512-237-2241 Hours: Open year round Park fees: $4 per day, per person 13 years and older; $2 per day, per person 13 and older for restricted use. Group adult entrance fee is $2. Season passes are available for $70 per card and $85 for two cards. Activities: Camping, fishing, biking, hiking, kayaking/canoeing and nature study. Swimming and golf are available at Bastrop State Park, nearby.

Camping in one of the beautiful state parks by a body of water is only one option available to visitors.

Buescher State Park

Buescher State Park is located two miles northwest of Smithville just off of Highway 71 on FM 153. The park is just east of Bastrop State Park and the two are connected by Park Road 1C. The scenic 12-mile long winding, hilly road between Buescher and Bastrop State Parks is an ideal setting for a wonderfully scenic bike ride, but should be used only by experienced cyclists. A variety of campsites, cabins, shelters and pavilion locations are available. There are 25 campsites with water, which may be rented for $12 per night and 32 campsites with electric and water hook-ups, which start at $17 per night and may be rented weekly or monthly during non-peak times. The park offers three cabins, which house a maximum of four people for $75 per night. Two screened shelters are available with picnic tables, electric outlets, lights and water nearby. A fire ring and upright grill is also available, all for $25 per night. Two premium screened shelters are available with ceiling fans, electric outlets, picnic tables, smoker/grill and fire ring. The shelters are winterized during cold months and are ADA compliant, all for $45 per night.

A group recreation hall with kitchen, capacity 100, is $250 per day Saturday and Sunday and $200 per day Monday through Friday. A group picnic pavilion with tables, electricity, fireplace and restrooms nearby are $40 per day. The daily entrance fee for ages 13 and older is $4. There is a $2 charge for ages 13 and older who wish to drive on Park Road 1C only. State park season passes are available at $70 for one pass or $85 for two passes. The park was created in 1936 thanks to a land donation by Emil and Elizabeth Buescher of 318 acres. After Emil Buescher’s death, his heirs donated 318 more acres. Today, the park provides more than 1,016 acres of scenic area. Additional land was acquired by the city of Smithville. The park is adjacent to the MD Anderson and UT Cancer Research Center. El Camino Real once ran near the park connecting San Antonio de Bexar with Spanish missions in East Texas. Original park improvements were made by the Civilian Conservation Corps and their craft can be seen in various locations in the park. The park has 7.5 miles of hiking trails through a variety of terrain, including dense forest cover and provides prime nature study. The park offers a wide range of activities, including a 25-acre lake that is stocked with crappie, bass, perch and rainbow trout. Boats are permitted on the lake, but not gas powered motors. The park does offer canoe rentals. There is no launching ramp and the lake is kept at a consistent level with a water well pump. For more information, contact Buescher State Park at 512-237-2241.

The Bastropian 2012-13

outdoors

Learn and explore at local nature areas McKinney Roughs

McKinney Roughs Nature Park offers plenty of fun and education for nature lovers. The park is located between Austin and Bastrop at 1884 Texas 71. The 1,100-acre nature park has characteristics of four Texas ecosystems and provides habitat for hundreds of species of mammals, birds, amphibians and reptiles. Once slated for development as residential housing, the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) purchased the site in 1995 and developed it as a nature park and natural science center in 1998. Some of the things that can be found at McKinney Roughs, just eight miles west of Bastrop are: n Outdoor recreation – Explore 18 miles of trails on foot or horseback while enjoying the natural surroundings of this mostly undeveloped nature park. McKinney Roughs offers many free and low-cost community programs to help the public learn more about the natural beauty of the park and the Colorado River. To see the latest calendar of community programs, visit www. lcra.org/parks. n Birding, wildlife and nature study – Hundreds of native plants, birds and mammals reside at McKinney Roughs. Visitors frequently come to the park to learn more about the birds and wildlife of Texas. Free guidebooks and binoculars can be checked out on loan from the visitor center. n Exhibit hall – Interactive exhibits enable visitors to get close to some of the area’s indigenous species, including snakes, turtles, salamanders, toads and frogs. A 1,300-gallon aquarium is filled with species of fish found in the Colorado River. n Guided river programs – Adults, families, schools, youth groups and corporate teams can enjoy a raft or kayak trip down the river from March through October. All trips are led by professional guides and all equipment and transportation is provided. River trips are regularly scheduled and can also be arranged on request. LCRA and the non-profit Colorado River Foundation sponsor Kids on the Colorado, a program designed to connect youth with the Colorado River. n Challenge course – Team building has never been more fun. The McKinney Roughs Challenge Course encourages team development among adults, youth, school, nonprofit, government and corporate groups. n Natural science education programs – The park’s natural science center hosts science-based educational programs and recreational activities led by a professional

Plenty of hiking and other attractions await visitors to local nature areas. Pictured above, hikers enjoy a day at the Colorado River Refuge. staff. Teacher, students, home schoolers, scout troops and other youth groups, as well as government and corporate groups can schedule field trips and visit and learn about the Colorado River’s role in sustaining the area’s unique plant and animal life. n Academy in the Roughs: natural science in the field – Academy in the Roughs is a fun, educational and challenging two- to four-day outdoor program for youth, with an emphasis on natural history, earth and biological science, personal challenge, team building and recreation, history, plants, challenge and recreation. Students stay overnight. n Dining and overnight accommodations – McKinney Roughs has three climate-controlled dormitories with bunk beds, toilets and showers that can house up to 128 overnight guests. A dining hall with full-service kitchen allows catered meals to be served year-round.

LPNT and CRR

Nature lovers who hike the peaceful trails of the Lost Pines Nature Trails and the Colorado River Refuge through massive Cottonwood trees, fragrant sycamores, past the last living remnants of an ancient Bald Cypress thicket firmly anchored to the

banks of the Colorado River will appreciate these living legacies. The 900-mile-long iconic Colorado River meanders diagonally through the center of diamond-shaped Bastrop County. Cedar elm groves, Texas persimmon thickets and rough-leafed dogwood trees form a secondary canopy underneath the 100-year-old-plus trees. Hikers will wander along trails which pass red sandstone formations sculpted by the floodwaters of the river into unique shapes that have been named the Quesadilla Cliffs. Bridges built over deep ravines are littered with multi-ton chunks of rock and concrete. They challenge the imagination with the power of water. These features are interesting side notes to the beauty and peace of the placid river waters flowing between the trees, through forests, pastures, towns and cities and ultimately to Matagorda Bay. Pines and Prairies Land Trust, owner of the Colorado River Refuge and Environmental Stewardship, developer of the Lost Pines Nature Trails are two local environmental 501( c) 3 non-profits which have joined together to develop nearly 100 acres, most of which is along the banks of the Colorado River within a 20- minute drive from downtown Bastrop. Development of

the nature park sits very lightly on the land and is respectful of wildlife, plants and trees. The forest and wildflower meadows are planned for family hiking, biking, dogwalking (on leashes), bird watching and peaceful enjoyment. The remarkable part is that the trails, bridges over ravines, benches and lookouts have been built and are maintained entirely by volunteers. A dedicated band of volunteers comes every Wednesday with ideas, tools, work gloves and energy to plan, cut wood, trim brush, build trails, work up a sweat and have fun. The volunteers make no distinction between the Lost Pines Nature Trails and the Colorado River Refuge. The four to five miles of trails connect seamlessly. Another remarkable part is that the park trails and access to the river for fishing, wading, playing, floating and just soaking hot, tired feet is totally free and open to everyone from dawn until dusk every day of the year. There is even a sandy beach area where children can safely play in the shallow water with a parent or two watching. Dogs can bounce into the water and play fetch with sticks. Kayaks and canoes can be put in and taken out. A large parking lot is adjacent to the beach. A few picnic tables are available and families of several generations can be seen gathering to enjoy the outdoors together. Sometimes the sounds of guitars are heard mixed with the bird song and the cottonwood leaves rustling in the breezes. Serious birdwatchers can hear pileated woodpeckers, red-bellied woodpeckers and barred owls at dusk. Northern cardinals, mockingbirds and many other smaller songbirds fly about in abundance. Wading birds such as the Great Blue Heron and the smaller American Egret can be seen fishing in shallow water near the bank. Deer and raccoon tracks are plentiful. Evidence of coyotes, armadillos and other mammals are also plentiful, especially in the soft mud. The trails are family friendly and a wonderful place to take children to learn about the marvels of nature. And they are free.

To get there:

From Texas Highway 71 East of Bastrop and Tahitian Drive go south on Tahitian Drive to Riverside Drive. Turn right on Riverside Drive and continue 1.3 miles where Riverside Drive becomes a gravel road. Stay left on Riverside Drive and go approximately 1 mile to a driveway on the left which goes down to the river. Take this driveway to the main parking lot of the Lost Pines Nature Trails.

The Bastropian 2012-13

outdoors

Fishing havens provide for anglers in Bastrop area The Bastrop area has an abundance of fishing holes at Lake Bastrop, the Colorado River or in the ponds at two of the beautiful state parks. All four water havens are located less than 15 miles away from downtown Bastrop.

IF YOU GO

Lake Bastrop

Lake Bastrop was created in 1965 as a power plant cooling pond. Bass can be caught all year long, but the best bass fishing is February through June. During hot weather, fishing in the early morning is best. Later in the day, use deep diving baits. Fishing can be a family affair In cool weather, crank – you are never too young to learn the art of catching a fish (rogues or spinner – or sometimes a turtle! baits), jigs and spoons are good. For the night fisherman, lights are permitted. Use minnows for crappie. Some fishing restrictions do exist for Lake Bastrop. In addition to a Texas fishing license, fishermen must adhere to maximum limits on largemouth bass caught at the lake. Black stripe bass, largemouth bass, crappie, channel catfish, yellow and flathead fish, perch and blue catfish inhabit the lake and are abundant in supply and size. Rainbow trout are not stocked at Lake Bastrop because the water is heated by use at the power generating station, making the lake too warm for trout to survive. The 906 surface acres of water make up a comfortable lake. There are plenty of hot spots with ample places for fish to thrive. The lake is located on FM 1441 outside of the Bastrop city limits. To get to Lake Bastrop head north on Texas 95 and take a right on FM 1441. The Lower Colorado River Authority controls Lake Bastrop.

Colorado River

A visit to the Colorado River, flowing through the heart of Bastrop, should be added to any list of activities. Fishing, canoeing, kayaking, picnicking and photography are just a few of the pleasures that can be enjoyed on or near the river. Fishing the Colorado is pleasant and productive for anglers of all ages and skill levels. Because the river is so lightly fished, there is an abundance of Guadalupe bass, largemouth bass, spotted bass, channel and flathead catfish and perch. Additionally, because of the nature of the river, it is relatively easy to determine where the fish are located. Just look for deep holes and areas with “structure” such as brush logs and submerged rocks. Some fishermen feel that the river’s fish are less “lurewise,” and not as cagey as game fish in more heavily fished areas. If you are interested in wetting your line in the Colorado, there are four public access points and fishing piers in Bastrop County.

What a great way to spend a few hours on a summer afternoon – relaxing on the banks of the Colorado River for some good fishing. The most convenient to Bastrop is Fisherman’s Park at the west end of Farm Street, walking distance from downtown. There is shore access as well as a launching ramp. Wooden docks also are good places to pick a spot for a folding chair. Picnic and restroom facilities are also available in the park. To the east of Bastrop is the Smithville boat ramp, located where Texas 95 crosses the Colorado River. Smithville’s ramp is approximately 13 miles east of Bastrop on Texas 95. The access road is on the northeast side of the bridge. To the west of Bastrop on FM 969, near Utley, is the Utley Bridge. Below the Utley Bridge is a boat ramp and fishing area. The bridge is approximately six miles west of the intersection of Texas 71 and FM 969. Further west on FM 969 are two additional boat ramp/ fishing areas — Travis County Park and the county park in Webberville. Both are located directly off FM 969. The Colorado River is best navigated in a flat bottom boat, canoe or raft. Gas and electric powered motors are allowed. Life vests are recommended, especially for weak swimmers and children. The best tackle for river fishing is lightweight spinning or casting rods or fly rods for the more experienced angler.

Buescher and Bastrop State Park ponds

For the angler with more exotic tastes, the pond at Buescher State Park is stocked with rainbow trout. The best time to catch rainbow trout is during the winter. During the summer, the heat makes the trout listless and unwilling to bite. The best trout bait is salmon eggs and/or canned corn on a small perch hook. Fly-fishing is not very successful because of the lack of moving water. A fishing license is not required of anyone who fishes from the pier or shoreline inside a state park. A fishing license is not required to fish at Bastrop or Buescher state park ponds. Statewide bag and length limits apply whenever fishing and each park requires a daily entrance pass. Both park lakes also stock perch, bass, crappie and catfish. Neither park permits gas-powered boats. However, electric motor boats are permitted. Be sure your boat is small enough, since there are no launching ramps at either lake.

LAKE BASTROP Located on FM 1441 outside of the Bastrop city limits Phone: (512) 498-1922 Entrance Fees: $4 per day, per person 13 to 64 years; $2 per day per person over 65 years and older, disabled, retired and active military. Children 12 years and under are free. Boat Access: There are two public boat ramps. One is located on FM 1441 and another is located on CR 352 off Texas 21. License: Texas fishing license is required. BASTROP STATE PARK Located on Texas 21 and Loop 150 Phone: (512) 321-2101 Park Fees: $4 per day, per person 13 to 64 years. Texas Parkland Passports available 65 years and older, veterans and disabled for $2 per day, per person. Texas State Parks Passes are available for $70 annually. Children 12 years and under are free. License: No Texas fishing license is required to fish at park ponds. BUESCHER STATE PARK Located east of Bastrop State Park and north of Smithville on 100 Park Road 1E Phone: (512) 237- 2241 Park Fees: $4 per day, per person 13 to 64 years. Texas Parkland Passports available 65 years and older, veterans and disabled for $2 per day, per person. Texas State Parks Passes are available for $70 annually. Children 12 years and under are free. License: No Texas fishing license is required to fish at park ponds. COLORADO RIVER Runs through Bastrop and Smithville Phone: (512) 473-3333 Boat Access: Bastrop: Fisherman’s Park. Smithville: approximately 13 miles east of Bastrop on Texas 95. Utley Bridge: located on FM 969 approximately six miles west of the intersection of Texas 71 and FM 969. License: Texas fishing license is required.

The Bastropian 2012-13

outdoors

Six beautiful parks in area to choose from The City of Bastrop has a variety of parks and recreational options. There are inviting opportunities for a cookout, a pickup basketball game, enjoying a picnic or launching a canoe trip down the Colorado River and soon an amazing new Splash Pad, located in Fisherman’s park. Fisherman’s Park is perhaps the best known and most popular among Bastrop’s city parks. Located along the banks of the Colorado and a stone’s throw from downtown Bastrop, the park offers a 10-footwide lighted sidewalk known as the June Pape Riverwalk that runs nearly a mile through the park to Ferry Park beneath the old Loop 150 Bridge, also known as the “old iron” bridge. The riverwalk is a popular spot for Bastropians looking to catch an early morning jog before work, take a leisurely stroll during the lunch hour or get in a workout over the weekend. Also featured at the park are a multipurpose field for baseball, softball and soccer, plus a basketball and sand volleyball courts, a playscape, two pavilions, a boat ramp, picnic tables and benches. Soon the addition of a splash pad will grace the park and add to its amenities which help the park play a big role in hosting many community gatherings and events each year. During the holiday season, for example, the park hosts the impressive “River of Lights”, featuring Christmasthemed scenes and exhibits with music and a wonderland of lights that fascinate all who view it up front and personal or viewing the beauty from the old iron bridge. Bob Bryant Park is notable for 4,200 feet of nature trails with benches, an observation deck and a canoe launch/fishing pier. The park is at the intersection of Charles Street and Schaffer Boulevard in the Riverside Grove subdivision and has horseshoe pits, a sand volleyball court, swings and a multi-purpose field. Weekends often find the park hosting pickup football or soccer games with its abundant grassy areas. Because of its access to the west side of the Colorado River, Bob Bryant is also a popular spot for those looking to cast a line in the water and see what bites. And, like Fisherman’s Park, Bob Bryant is a perfect launching point for adventurous souls seeking to take a canoe excursion down the Colorado River toward Smithville, where swimming and camping on sandbars are possible at many turns. Ferry Park is located at the intersection of Water and Main streets at the

IF YOU GO FISHERMAN’S PARK

Located in downtown on the banks of Colorado Hours: 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

BOB BRYANT PARK

Located in the Riverside Grove Subdivision at Charles Street and Schaffer Boulevard Hours: 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

MAYFEST PARK

Fisherman’s Park is perhaps the best known and most popular among Bastrop’s city parks. Located along the banks of the Colorado and a stone’s throw from downtown Bastrop, the park offers a 10-foot-wide lighted sidewalk that runs nearly a mile through the park.

Located at the intersection of Arena Drive and the American Legion Hall Hours: 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

FERRY PARK

Located at the intersection of Water and Main streets Hours: 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

KERR PARK

Located off of Walnut Street Hours: 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

CEDAR CREEK PARK

Located on FM 535, a half mile east of Texas 21 Hours: 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Bob Bryant Park is notable for 4,200 feet of nature trails with benches, an observation deck and a canoe launch/fishing pier. The park is at the intersection of Charles Street and Schaffer Boulevard in the Riverside Grove subdivision. south end of the Riverwalk and features a small playscape, one of the city’s first outdoor art pieces, swings and a gazebo. This park is connected to Fisherman’s Park by the June Pape Riverwalk and provides an excellent alternative to seeing downtown Bastrop from the banks of the Colorado River. Kerr Community Park is located at the corner of Walnut and Martin Luther King and features a pavilion with numerous barbecue pits and park benches, a playscape, a xeriscape garden, a basketball court and other amenities which make it an ideal location for weekend events, cookoff and is the location for the

annual Juneteenth Celebration. The park is the result of a grant which was a joint venture with the Kerr Community Center and the City of Bastrop. Jewell’s Park is located on Hill Street and is Bastrop’s newest pocket park. It is named for long-time resident and activist Jewell Hodges who lived down the street. This park features a youth merrygo-round and see-saw, basketball courts, small barbecue pits, and other amenities for the popular neighborhood spot. Hill Street Park, located off Hill Street behind Bastrop High School attracts youth with its baseball fields, swing sets and picnic tables.

Mayfest Park at the intersection of Arena Drive and American Legion (just behind the American Legion Post on Loop 150 East) is Bastrop’s headquarters for livestock and rodeo events. The annual 4-H livestock show, live concerts and the annual Bastrop Homecoming and Rodeo are all held at this location. Fireman’s Park located at 600 Hill Street has a lighted softball field, bleachers and is a favorite for small softball tournaments. This park located in the middle of a neighborhood has traditionally been a fun hangout for locals to watch a good softball game and enjoy visiting with the players and neighbors. Check Bastrop Public Works and Parks and Recreation at www.cityofbas trop.org for more information.

The Bastropian 2012-13

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Smithville’s parks a reason to visit here Majestic live oaks, abundant recreational facilities and hiking along the Colorado River are some of the highlights offered among Smithville’s park system. Vernon L. Richards Riverbend Park is the largest and most popular of the city parks. A landmark feature of Smithville, the park encompasses 50 acres of pristine land adjacent to the Colorado River and off Texas 71. The park hosts many popular events, including Smithville’s Jamboree and Thunder on the Colorado, a gathering of motorcycles buffs. There is also an 18-whole disc golf course plus a large open area of grass fields capable of hosting a variety of sports. Volleyball courts, a softball field, a pavilion and fenced in area for large events. A playground and 19 campsite pads with restroom and showers are also available for use. Then there is the actual river access and boat ramp, a perfect launching pad for canoe and kayak trips further down the remote stretches of the Colorado River towards La Grange and the coastal regions near Houston. The Railroad Park located off NE First Street is dedicated to the railroad workers of the city of Smithville and is built on the site where the depot station was located. It features a playground and several train cars including the Ann Powell Express which takes visitors and locals around Smithville during special events. Keilburg Park is perhaps best known for its role in the 1998 film “Hope Floats” directed by Forrest Whitaker and starring Sandra Bullock and Harry Connick, Jr. The parks has a full-size baseball field and soccer field and is located at the top of 14th Street. MLK Park on the corner of MLK and Marburger attracts sports lovers and is the location of the annual MLK festivities. It is located next to the Little League fields, the park features a soccer field, basketball goals, picnic tables and barbecue pits. The Smithville Recreation Center is the only city-operated recreation center in Bastrop County. The 22,500 squarefoot facility boasts a full-sized gymnasium, theatrical stage and other amenities such as racketball courts, exercise equipment, several multi-purpose rooms and a full-size kitchen. It is a highly popular location for local residents to exercise and is used for many community functions. The center is located off Texas 95 just across the railroad tracks and adjacent to downtown. Recent additions to the facility include a playscape and skate park. The Veterans Memorial Park in

If you go Vernon L. Richards Riverbend Park Located next to the Colorado River on Texas 71 Hours: Always open Smithville Recreation Center Located off Texas 95 directly over the railroad track adjacent to downtown Hours: Monday-Thursday 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Sunday 2-6 p.m. Vernon L. Richards Riverbend Park is the largest and most popular of Smithville’s city parks.

MLK Park Located on the corner of MLK Boulevard and Marburger Street Hours: Always open Keilburg Park Located at the top of Fourth Street Hours: Always open The Railroad Park Located at NE. First and Main streets Hours: Always open

A playground and 19 campsite pads with restroom and showers are also available for use. Smithville is a unique setting meant to honor four Smithville-area soldiers who were killed recently in the fight against terrorism – a big price to pay for such a small town. The park is being built through do-

nations and volunteer labor and will honor veterans from across Bastrop County. The park will feature a splash pad, a feature that was added after the families of the fallen soldiers said they wanted to

bring youthful energy and joy to the park while simultaneously paying respect to the fallen soldiers. The center piece of the park will be a 16-foot angel sculpted by renowned Smithville artist Bill McGlaun and feature gold-plated dog tags from each soldier. The memorial will also provide a special place of honor for the names of the fallen from Bastrop County. The park is nearing completion although funds are needed to finish the project. A fundraiser featuring country music star Cory Morrow is set for Saturday, May 19 at Riverbend Park in Smithville. For more information, check Smithville Parks and Recreation Department at www.ci.smithville.tx.us.

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The Bastropian 2012-13

outdoors

Elgin has five family-friendly parks to choose from Bastrop County’s largest city boasts five parks and the county’s only cityowned and operated public pool. Elgin’s Park and Recreation Department is known for its motto, “Parks and Recreation, where the benefits are endless.” The department plays an integral part of the community’s activities. Veterans’ Memorial Park, also known as City Park, is located downtown at 109 Depot Street and is one of the most popular parks in Elgin. It was built on the site of the old railroad depot in the 1930’s to honor veterans of WWI. Events and functions include the Movies in the Park and Music in the Park series and is also one of the destinations for Elgin’s popular annual Hogeye Festival. Visitors can relax in the wooden gazebo or on one of 12 concrete benches that sit under the rows of large crepe myrtles that have become one of the park’s signature features. Shenandoah Soccer Park and Greenbelt Park located west of downtown Elgin on 1490 North Avenue C, is the city’s largest park. The park is 40plus acres and includes many soccer fields operated by the Elgin Youth Soccer

Association. Picnic tables and benches have been added to enhance the development of the park. Future planned improvements include walking trails and more picnic tables, barbecue pits and benches. Elgin Memorial Park is a very picturesque site located at Texas 95 and Main Street ecompassing 26 acres of rolling land covered with elm trees and sits adjacent to the Elgin softball and baseball fields. Also included on the grounds are two sand volleyball courts, a playground, three tennis courts, barbecue grills and a covered pavilion that commonly hosts parties and events. The park is the site of the annual Western Days Celebration and Firemen’s Barbecue Cook-Off. Morris Memorial Park is located on North Avenue C on the grounds of the former Morris Hospital. The park which covers 14 acres was constructed in 1996 and features a swimming pool which is open daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Additionally a basketball court, playground equipment, a pond surrounded by a hike and bike trail, several picnic tables and barbecue grills complete the amenities of the park. The

former hospital building now known as the Elgin Recreation Building will soon undergo a complete renovation along with parts of the pool. These improvements should enhance the appeal and functionality of the facility. Thomas Memorial Park is a 12 acre park located two blocks off McDade Road at 411 Madison Street. Built in the 1970’s, it is loaded with amenities including a baseball field, a playground, restrooms, a

pavilion, picnic tables and a concession stand. Numerous additions and improvements have been made in trecent years including a nine-hole disc-golf course, a new volleyball court and playground equipment, expanded trail system and parking lot, renovated bathrooms and additional picnic and barbecue areas. Check Elgin Parks and Recreation Department at www.elgintx.com for more information.

If You Go Shenandoah Park and Greenbelt Located west of downtown on 1490 North Avenue C. Hours: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Veterans’ Memorial Park, also known as City Park, is located downtown at 109 Depot Street and is one of the most popular parks in Elgin.

Elgin Memorial Park Located at Texas 95 and Main Street Hours: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Morris Memorial Park Located on North Avenue C Hours: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. The Elgin Recreation Building Located inside Morris Memorial Park Hours: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thomas Memorial Park Located at 411 Madison Street Hours: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Veterans Memorial Park Located at 109 Depot Street. Hours: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Elgin Memorial Park is a very picturesque site located at Texas 95 and Main Street ecompassing 26 acres of rolling land covered with elm trees and sits adjacent to the Elgin softball and baseball fields.

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The Bastropian 2012-13

outdoors

Bastrop, Elgin cool off with two pools Two public swimming pools are available in Bastrop County and are a good way to cool off on a hot summer day in Texas — one at Bastrop State Park and another in Elgin.

Bastrop State Park

The public pool at Bastrop State Park underwent an historic switch in management with the YMCA taking over operations from state park personnel in early 2012. The pool and the nearby historic Refectory building fortunately survived the Labor Day 2011 wildfires that swept through much of the rest of the park. The 365,000-gallon pool opened Saturday May 5 and is open through September, with a varied schedule (see below). The pool offers lap swimming and swim lessons. Membership in the YMCA offers benefits for pool use, including no entry fee, exercises classes and discounts for programs – but access to the pool by the public does not require Y membership. The pool is also open for group rentals. Entrance fee for the public is $5 for all ages, or $3 with a state park pass. Swim lessons are available June 9 through Sept. 29 Pool hours for May and latter September (after the Labor Day weekend) are: Monday through Thursday, lap swim and water exercise from 7-10 a.m. and 6-8 p.m. Open swims for May and latter September are only on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The schedules for those days are: Friday, 7-10 a.m. lap swim, 5-8 p.m. for open and lap swim; Saturday and Sunday, open and lap swim from noon to 8 p.m. The fuller schedule for summer – June through Labor Day – is: Monday through Friday, lap swim from 7-9 a.m.; water exercise and swim lessons from 9 a.m. to noon; open and lap swim from noon to 8 p.m. On Saturday and Sunday, open and lap swims are from noon to 8 p.m. There are swim lessons, water exercise and additional lap swim before noon. For more information on pool schedule, call the pool at (512)

The pool at Bastrop State Park is open from early May through September, with varied days/hours of operations. The Bastrop YMCA will oversee pool operations for the first time, taking over from the state. 321-3740; for more information on offerings by the YMCA, call the Bastrop office at (512) 321-9622 or see www.bastropYMCA. org.

Morris Memorial Park

Elgin’s municipal pool, located on North Avenue C, opens Memorial Day weekend and remains open for a full

schedule through Aug 17, and then has limited operation from Aug. 18 – Sept. 2. Admission fees are free for toddlers up to age 5; $2 for everyone else. A swim pass is $65 for 55 entries. The pool offers swim lessons, day-care swims, water aerobics, lap swim and pool party reservations.

Pool hours are Monday-Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Hours from Aug. 18 through Sept. 2 are weekends only – Saturday, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, from 1-6 p.m. For more information, call the pool at (512) 281-5724, ext. 23.

Dog parks a great place for family pets to run Just as with children, dogs need to get out sometimes and run off some energy. If you are traveling with a dog or do not have a fenced yard, not to worry – there are dogs parks in both Bastrop and Smithville where your dog can play and socialize.

Bastrop Bark Park

The Bastrop Bark Park, 104 Grady St., sits on more than an acre of grassy, tree-

shaded land owned by the city across the street from the Bastrop Police Department and behind the Grady Tuck building. The park includes two fenced-in areas –one for big dogs and one for smaller dogs – with waste stations, covered bench areas, drinking fountains and trash receptacles. The bark park was created by the city council, which put some funds into the

project. Most of the funds came from private fundraising. The Bark Park includes a 6-foot-high fence, separate entry gates for “big” or “small” dogs, an exit area and 20 parking spots. Call the city Public Works Department at (512) 332-8920 for more information.

Smithville Bark Park

Smithville’s dog park is a small, grassy

fenced-in area that opened in 2009 after the community rallied with fundraisers. The official grand opening was held May 1, 2010. The park sits next to the railroad park and across the street from the Smithville Recreation Center. The park is a safe place for dogs to frolic and offers play toys for dogs, a water trough and benches. Call the city at (512) 237-3282 for more information.

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The Bastropian 2012-13

EVENTS Depending on the time of year you arrive in the area, you just might stumble upon one of the county’s annual celebrations. In Bastrop, Yesterfest celebrates the city’s unique history and Homecoming is the time for class reunions, a big parade, carnivals and fun. The weeklong Jamboree is the granddaddy of celebrations in Smithville. Elgin’s big events are Hogeye and Western Days, and in McDade, it’s the Watermelon Festival. Whether it’s celebrating the arts, the past or the community, these festivals provide fun for the whole family.

Bastrop

n Martin Luther King Day – The Bastrop County Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission celebrates the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King each year on the third Monday of January. The celebration rotates between the cities of Bastrop, Elgin and Smithville. In 2013, the Annual Bastrop County Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission Walk for Peace, Justice, Equality and Non-violence will be in Bastrop. The theme continues to be “Remember! Celebrate! Act! A Day On…Not a Day Off!” For more information, call Dock Jackson at (512) 303-0950. n Yesterfest – Held all day long the last Saturday in April, the cultural celebration of Yesterfest is a tribute to Bastrop’s pioneer past. This festival has musical entertainment, food, historic reenactments, staged gunfights, demonstrations, cowboy roping, dancing, a petting zoo and a full day’s entertainment. Sponsored by the Downtown Business Alliance and the Bastrop Opera House, Yesterfest celebrates Bastrop’s early cultures. Organizers turn downtown Bastrop into a replica of the town as it existed in the past and participants are invited to dress from many eras and explore Bastrop’s historic district. To find out more, call Debbie Denny at (512) 321-2557. n Bastrop/Smithville Relay for Life – This event, which benefits the American Cancer Society and its Bastrop chapter, is held in April or May. The Relay is made possible by volunteer effort and involves two days of walking, running, camping out and playing games. However, the biggest emphasis is on honoring cancer survivors and remembering those who have lost their fight. Groups of people of all ages band together under their own creative banner and historically high school students have been actively involved in the relay, which takes place at Erhard Field on Hill Street. n Juneteenth – The third Saturday of the month or the Saturday nearest June 19 is set aside in Bastrop to celebrate Juneteenth, which commemorates the day Texas slaves learned of their emancipation. In 2012, the celebration will be held

In Smithville each year, the town turns out for the annual Bun Run, a fundraiser for Relay For Life.

Bastrop and Smithville both have annual Empty Bowl Project fundraisers for local charities. June 15-16. The event is typically held downtown and at the Kerr Community Center and Park (at the intersection of Walnut and Martin Luther King streets). Picnics, dances and many family reunions enliven this festival. On Friday at the Bastrop Convention and Exhibit Center, a new tradition is beginning with a Juneteenth Heritage Jubilee which starts at 6:30 p.m. This new event will feature food, dancing and music at the new convention center in a distinctively uptown type evening. Saturday is the big day with the grand parade which starts at 10 a.m. at Fisherman’s Park and makes its way down Main Street to the Kerr Community Center, where there is food, activities and a special proclamation program. The Blue Flame Cruisers are also hosting a car show at the Bastrop City Hall Parking lot from 8:30 am until 3:00 pm. The grand finale is a free street dance that will be held

downtown on Main Street for the enjoyment of the entire community. For more information, call Dock Jackson at (512) 629-2859. n Patriotic Festival – The first Saturday of July is the date for the Patriotic Festival. In 2012, the parade and fireworks display is Saturday, July 7. The Patriotic Festival is an old-fashioned Fourth of July celebration, complete with live band music and fireworks that locals and visitors enjoy from both the Fisherman’s Park and the Old Iron Bridge spanning the Colorado River. Beginning around 6 p.m. people start streaming down to Fisherman’s Park to enjoy. Many bring blankets or lawn chairs for their families, and food vendors are on hand. For more information, call the Bastrop Chamber at (512) 321-2419. n Pet & Pals Parade – Local pet-lovers bring all sorts of animals, from dogs to rabbits to turtles to meet at the Bastrop

County Courthouse, parade down Main Street and end at the Bastrop Public Library, where snacks and prizes await. Animals are dressed in red, white and blue to celebrate our country’s birthday. This relatively new parade is held in conjunction with the Patriotic Festival and is sponsored by the Downtown Business Alliance. n Homecoming Parade and Rodeo – Traditionally held the first weekend of August, graduating classes hold reunions and everyone comes home to Bastrop to watch a parade, dance the nights away, enjoy a rodeo and visit with friends and family. In 2012, Homecoming runs Aug. 2-4. The rodeo is one of the best-attended events of Homecoming. It is held on Mayfest Hill on Loop 150, behind the American Legion hall and across the street from the Bastrop State Park entrance. There’s plenty of beer, country dancing and live music for adults and a carnival for the youngsters. A dance follows each rodeo performance. Then there’s the Saturday Homecoming parade, one of the largest parades in Bastrop. Floats from throughout the area roll along Main Street to the delight of spectators, young and old. There is typically a CASI chili cook-off held in conjunction with Homecoming. Returning this year will be a special assembly of classes. The classes will gather at the new Bastrop Convention Center and Exhibit Hall for reunions, food and fun. The Bastrop Homecoming Committee organizes the event and posts updates on their Web site, www.bastrophomecomingrodeo.org. n Colorado River 100 – This marathon canoe race and adventure challenge runs from Fisherman’s Park in Bastrop to Columbus and is the only 100-mile canoe race in Texas. The race is typically held in September, and in 2011, the race will be held Sept. 1. This is a 36-hour race, with set cut-off times, for the dedicated canoeist wanting to test their mental and physical strength while enjoying some of the best views the river has to offer. Cash prizes are available to the winners. For entry fees, sponsorship information or race information, visit www.coloradoriver100.com. n Downtown Halloween Family Festival – This major downtown celebration for people of all ages is sponsored by the Downtown Business Alliance and offers thrills, chills and of course candy. On Halloween, Bastrop’s Main Street is transformed into a spooky stretch with games, a scavenger hunt, trick-or-treating, costume contests for multiple age groups and a haunted house. In the evening, live music livens up the streets. Even Main

See EVENTS, page 24

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The Bastropian 2012-13

EVENTS Continued from page 22 Street business owners tend to dress up for a ghoulish good time. n Bastrop Art on the Green. A Saturday in October. Artists and craftsmen from across the county and beyond unite for this annual event. You’ll see great works of art and, better yet, meet the artists who created them. n Veteran’s Day Classic Car Show – A much-anticipated downtown event that becomes grander every year, the Veteran’s Day Classic Car Show features a special march honoring local veterans and hundreds of classic cars and a few customized modern cars on display from one end of Main Street to the other, with many cars spilling onto side streets. Many out-of-state guests make an appearance with their specially restored vehicles and motorcycles, as well as people from throughout Texas. The Veteran’s Day celebration also features food booths, bands and a street dance. The 2012 event is set for Nov. 10 and is sponsored by the Downtown Business Alliance. n Harvest Art Fest – The annual Harvest Art Fest is always held on the Friday and Saturday following Thanksgiving and is a grassroots effort benefiting the Bastrop Association for the Arts. Local artists show their wares and there are 25 to 30 artists of every kind. Offerings include paintings, jewelry, pottery, leatherwork, T-shirts, hand-turned wooden bowls and more. In past years the fest was held at the Farmer’s Market on Chestnut Street. Call organizer Chris Klink, who has planned the event for more than 20 years, at (512) 303-9599 for updates. n River of Lights – Shortly after Thanksgiving and until the New Year, Bastrop shows off lighted holiday displays on the June Hill Pape Memorial Riverwalk between Fisherman’s Park and the Old Ferry Park. The Bastrop Chamber and local businesses sponsor nearly 100 light displays to add a festive glow to the trail. The half-mile stroll down the trail is free, but you might want to bring a few dollars for the various nonprofits, including Bastrop Pink Santa, that “adopt” the trail on various nights. n Lighted Christmas Parade – Set in 2012 for Dec. 8, this holiday evening staple is always a big draw. The nighttime lighted parade moves down Main Street and has featured the Bastrop Honeybears and high school band and other floats. Santa Claus is also on hand for photos and hugs. In past years, choreographed dance performances delighted crowds after the parade. Sponsored by the Downtown Business Alliance, the parade begins at Bastrop High School and ends in historic downtown Bastrop. Stores typically stay open late downtown during the

You can always find a parade happening somewhere in Bastrop County. and visitors can enter the old homes of Bastrop and look around while knowledgeable docents answer questions and point out architectural and historical highlights. For more information, call the Bastrop County Historical Society at (512) 3030057. n Bastrop Pedal through the Pines. First Saturday in March. A series of bicycle rides loop through Bastrop State Park and the scenic countryside. SAG wagons provide support for this all-ages event.

Smithville

Each spring, Robin Hood and his merry band descend on the Paige area for the Sherwood Forest Faire. It’s renaissance at its best. month for Christmas shopping and many offer refreshments for guests. n Historic Homes Tour – Set in 2012 for Dec. 8, this event features homes and/or historical buildings that are open to the public. This is a popular event each year sponsored by the Bastrop County Historical Society in which Bastrop residents

n Fish Fry and Fun Night – This event, held the first Saturday in February at the Smithville Recreation Center at 106 Gazley St., benefits the Smithville Volunteer Fire Department and the Smithville Noon Lions Club. Visitors and locals buy a plate of fish to support local community efforts. n Thunder on the Colorado Biker Rally – During this festival, the quiet little town of Smithville gets much louder as the rumbling of hundreds of motorcycles – can you say “Harley?” – converge for three days of biker games, live music, dancing, artisan vendors, food and drink. You must be 21 or older to attend. The event is held the third weekend in March at Riverbend Park. In 2013 that would be March 15-17. The park is off Texas 71, about a mile past the Texas 95 exit into Smithville and just before crossing the Colorado River. Visit www.thunderonthecolorado.com. If you own a motorcycle, or are a motorcycle enthusiast, or enjoy live music this event is for you. Sponsored by the Smithville Area Chamber of Commerce.

n Jamboree – Every town has its monster festival, and Smithville’s is Jamboree. The almost weeklong event celebrates with a Main Street parade, a pet show, carnival rides, live music, sports tournaments, a livestock show and sale, and plenty of country dancing. Jamboree is always held the week after Easter, beginning on Thursday and continuing on through Sunday afternoon. The bulk of it is celebrated at Riverbend Park (on the north side of Texas 71 as you drive into Smithville), but the Saturday afternoon parade is held in downtown Smithville, traveling down Loop 230 through the heart of downtown. A week before the parade, the Jamboree Queen is crowned and travels on a float a week later in the afternoon parade sponsored by the Jamboree Committee. The Jamboree is also a high school reunion week for Smithville, with many traveling back to their hometown to see old friends. Visit www.jamboreesmithville.com for more details and exact dates and times for events. n Smithville Fly-in and Pancake Breakfast – Smithville is lucky enough to be the only town in Bastrop County with its own municipal airport. During this annual event held on the second Saturday in May, local families, aviation enthusiasts, and pilots gather at the SmithvilleCrawford Municipal Airport to watch air demonstrations, network, and enjoy a complimentary pancake breakfast. Sponsored by the Smithville Area Chamber of Commerce. n Fourth of July Celebration – Smithville residents celebrate Independence Day at the Smithville VFW at 557 Loop 230 N. with a parade, barbecue picnic, games and, of course, fireworks. n Casino Night – If you’re a fan of poker, craps, roulette, slot machines, and blackjack, you’ll love this annual fundraiser in Smithville. For the dedicated poker enthusiasts, the Chamber of Commerce has added a Texas Hold Em Tournament. The 2012 Casino Night will be held on Saturday, July 28 at 6:30 p.m. at Smithville Recreation Center at 106 Gazley. n Citywide Garage Sale – During this daylong event, homes throughout Smithville host individual garage sales and those outside Smithville city limits rent booths in the downtown Smithville area (along Main Street and Loop 230) offering their wares. Visitors are given free maps of garage sale locations (available at the Chamber of Commerce office located at First and Main Streets). In 2012, the event will be held Oct. 6. ( always held the first Saturday in October). n Texas Photo Festival – Grab your

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EVENTS Continued from page 24 camera and tripod and join the Smithville Music and Film Commission for a fun, educational adventure in photography on the second Sunday in October (the 2012 event will be held on Sunday, Oct. 14). Downtown Smithville becomes the backdrop full of live models, action shot opportunities, a runway fashion show, and charming, historic scenery for every skill level of photographer. This free event allows participants to grab shots within the “Photo Zone” and share them at the mixer at day’s end for a photo contest. For more information, contact the Smithville Area Chamber of Commerce at 512-2372313 or visit www.texasphotofestival.org. n Festival of Lights – Smithville’s holiday celebration takes place downtown and includes two arts and crafts shows, a lighted Main Street parade after nightfall, a children’s festival and live music from area musicians and choirs. This Texasstyle Christmas celebration is always held the first Saturday in December. In 2012, the festival is Dec. 1. The festival begins at 9 a.m. with a 5K race. Food booths are also available to hungry patrons starting at 10 am. Santa Claus is available in front of the Chamber of Commerce for pictures throughout the day for pictures and is traditionally on the final float of the parade, waving to onlookers from his own fire engine. Other activities include a gingerbread house and gingerbread man making arts and craft events for children at the Smithville Recreation Center as well as races and games downtown. For more information, contact the Smithville Chamber at (512) 237-2313.

Celebrating the area’s pioneer heritage, Yesterfest offers something for everyone.

Cedar Creek

n Cedar Creek Family Festival – Held for the past four years during the last weekend in March or the first weekend in April, this event offers a free lunch, music, face painting, guest speakers, a petting zoo, local vendors and a drawing. In 2012 the festival moved to the new Cedar Creek Park on FM 535. Speakers spotlight Central Texas and Cedar Creek. Silent and live auctions cap off the event. Contact Marshall or Shirley Smith with the Cedar Creek Rotary Club at (512) 303-7827 for more information.

Elgin

n Market Days – Held the first Saturday of each month from February through November, Market Days is held at the Elgin Memorial Park at Texas 95 and Main Street (Loop 109). Vendors bring everything from flea market to garage sale to craft items to sell at the park. For information on booth spaces to participate in this event, call (512) 285-4025.

Texas is for cowboys – and cowgirls – and rodeos are a big part of the fun and excitement to be found around the county at various times. n Elgin Community Easter Egg Hunt – During this event, youth participate in an egg hunt with fabulous prizes and enjoy games and entertainment. The Friends of Elgin Parks, the City of Elgin Parks and Community Development Department, churches and businesses sponsor the annual egg hunt. The tradition started with the Elgin Evening Lions Club. The event is held the Saturday before Easter each year. For more information, visit www.elgintx.com. n Dia de los Ninos – This event is typically held in late April or early May at the Elgin Public Library. This is a traditional celebration in Mexico to encourage reading and recognize youth. Bring the family and enjoy a day at the library with live entertainment, Ballet Folklorico, music,

food, games, free books, crafts and more. For more information, call Melinda Torres at (512) 281-5678. n Elgin VFD BBQ Cook-Off – The Fireman’s BBQ Cook-off is held in the Elgin Memorial Park usually in April. Participants begin arriving on Thursday to start preparing their cuisine with judging on Saturday. Each year this event attracts a large crowd and is great fun for all who attend. For details contact the Elgin Volunteer Fire Department at (512) 281-4025. n Community Wide Garage Sale – The first Saturday in May a community wide garage sale is held for anyone wishing to participate. For information on how to get on the map contact the Elgin Courier at (512) 285-3333. n Elgin Relay for Life – The Elgin Relay

for Life in 2012 is May 18. This community event supports the American Cancer Society and not only raises funds for research and patient services, but also raises awareness and gives hope to those touched by cancer and their families. For more information on next year’s event, call Sheri Mac at (512) 281-5724. The event is held at Elgin High School’s Wildcat Stadium at 14000 County Line Rd. n Elgin Juneteenth Festival – Juneteenth in Elgin commemorates the day Texas slaves learned of their emancipation. To honor this event, Elgin celebrates the occasion the second weekend in June (June 7-9) with a parade, pageant, dance and festival. The events take place in downtown Elgin at Veterans’ Memorial Park. For more information, call Bettye Lofton at (512) 963-2721. The parade starts Saturday at 10 a.m., music, food and vendors in the park on Friday night. n Music and Movies in the Park Series – Elgin’s Parks and Community Development Department along with the Friends of Elgin Parks provides live music in the parks in April and May. Summer features family-oriented movies. The movies in 2012 are Despicable Me on June 15 and Lilo and Stitch on July 20. Both are held in downtown Elgin at Veterans’ Memorial Park on Main and Depot streets. Concessions help finance the series that is free to the public. For more information, call (512) 281-5724. n Elgin Western Days – In 2012, the 43rd Annual Western Days Festival hits Elgin June 19-23. The Western Days Festival begins with the Miss Western Days Pageant Tuesday at 7 p.m. at the Elgin High School cafeteria. A different event is scheduled for each night. Events include a carnival at the Park and Ride at Elgin Memorial Park Thursday through Saturday. On Friday night, a free dance is held at the tennis courts in Elgin Memorial Park. Saturday is the big finale starting at 10 a.m. with a parade down Main Street. For more information, see www.elgintxchamber.com and click on the “Western Days” link. n Chalk It Up: Children’s Sidewalk Art Contest – The City of Elgin Parks and Community Development Department sponsors a free children’s sidewalk art contest each July at Veterans’ Memorial Park. In 2012, the contest will be Saturday, July 3 at 6 p.m. The event is for children ages 6-12 and supplies are provided. For more information, visit www.elgintx. com. n Fourth of July People’s Patriotic Parade & Celebration — “Push, Pedal, Pull and Pets” is the theme of the annual parade and celebration held each year on July 4. In 2012, line up at 9:30 a.m. and

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EVENTS Continued from page 26 the parade is at 10 a.m. It is a fun event for children, pets, adults, seniors and veterans. Everyone is invited to walk down Elgin’s Main Street from City Hall to Veterans’ Memorial Park for the celebration. All non-motorized entries are accepted. Food and fun follow the parade with a short program and a Soap Box Derby exhibition by the local Cub Scouts. For more information, visit www.elgintx.com. n Beach Party in Elgin Memorial Park, 1127 N. Main St. from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Watermelon, waterslide, sand castle building, lemonade: A Day at the Beach! n Hogeye Festival — The annual Hogeye Festival held in downtown Elgin’s historic district and Veterans Memorial Park is for the entire family and features food, kids’ activities, handmade arts and crafts, music by local bands and plenty of pig puns to go around. Popular events are the Lone Star Car Club Car Show, In A Pigs Eye Dart Contest, Gordon Swenson Memorial BBQ Pork-Off, carnival, Cow Patty Bingo and the crowning of King Hog or Queen Sowpreme. In 2012, Hogeye will be Saturday, Oct. 27 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. n Safe Trick or Treat Trail — Sponsored by the City of Elgin Parks and Community Development Department and located in downtown Elgin at Veterans Memorial Park, businesses set up to pass out treats and provide activities for the trickor-treaters. This safe alternative to traditional trick-or-treating is a popular event complete with a costume contest for the kids. For more information, visit www. elgintx.com. In 2012, the event will be Wednesday, Oct. 31 from 6-8 p.m. n Holiday by the Tracks — Holiday by the Tracks, typically held the first Saturday in December, includes a day of shopping at the local downtown businesses, music and the Art & Artisans Showcase in Veterans’ Memorial Park and an opportunity to shop at the area Christmas tree farms. In 2012, Holiday by the Tracks will be held Saturday, Dec. 1 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Also included is the Elgin Volunteer Fire Department’s Lighted Christmas Parade at dusk followed by a St. Peter’s Lutheran Church live nativity. The annual parade is a favorite of the locals as well as the many visitors it attracts. The parade route follows Main Street from 11th to Brenham streets. For more information on the parade, call the Elgin VFD at (512) 281-4025. For event info, call (512) 285-4515 or visit www.elgintx.com.

McDade

n Watermelon Festival – Perhaps the most popular of events in McDade, this annual festival is capped by a parade that winds its way through downtown McDade

Bastrop’s annual Veteran’s Day and car show have become large draws for patriots and car enthusiasts from across the state. For bikers – and lookers – the annual Thunder on the Colorado happens each year in Smithville’s Riverbend Park (18 and above only). n Paige VFD Annual Barbecue Benefit – The event is held on the second weekend in October. The 2012 event is Oct. 12-13. Local businesses donate items to be auctioned. The fire department is at 166 Washington St. in Paige, 1 block off of U.S. 290.

Rockne

The Bike Thru the Pines annual fundraiser for the Family Crisis Center has become a very popular event each spring. and past the McDade General Store. Held annually since July 1948, friends from all over pour into McDade for this event. In 2012, the event will be held all day on July 14. Come on out and see the huge watermelons entered in the contest from far and wide. n McDade Heritage Day – In 2012, the celebration of McDade’s history will take place in October in downtown McDade. Call (512) 273-2566 for more details.

Paige

n Drive-by Chicken Barbecue/ Drive-by Chile – Locals refer to these two unique fundraisers for the Paige Volunteer Fire Department as “drive-bys” because some people make their purchase and then drive away. The Drive-by Chicken Barbecue is held the last Saturday in April at the Paige

VFD on Washington Street, which intersects U.S. 290, the main highway through town. The drive-by chili fundraiser starts at 5 p.m. on the last Saturday in January. You can’t miss the station with its five bright red doors. Rabies vaccinations are also offered during the event, fire extinguishers will be for sale and refills are available for fire extinguishers. n Paige Community Center’s Trade Days – This year Trade Days will be held June 2, and it is always the first Saturday in June. Past Trade Days have featured everything from antiques to homemade pickles, noodles, cakes, plants and veggies. The center is on U.S. 290, about midway through the Paige community. Another Trade Days is held the first Saturday in November, but offers more Christmas-related items. Call (512) 253-6607 for more information.

n Spring Festival – Every year since the mid-1940s, Rockne’s Sacred Heart Catholic Church at 4045 FM 535 has hosted two annual festivals, the first of which is Spring Festival, held the Sunday before Memorial Day. The spring festival features plant booths with spring flowers for sale, as well as numerous booths offering cakes and other baked goods, and games for adults and children alike. The event concludes with a dance held at the church hall behind the main church building. n Fall Festival – Always held on the Sunday before Labor Day, the Fall Festival is similar to the Spring Festival in that it also brings people together for a large lunch. However, this celebration also features a live auction in which there are always a few head of cattle and specialty items up for bid on the patio behind the school. A dance also concludes this festival. Call (512) 321-7991 for more information on these Rockne festivals. n String Prairie Fall Fest – During the last Sunday in October, St. Mary’s Church, an offshoot of Sacred Heat Catholic Church, invites the community to their fall festival. The event is similar to the Fall Fest held before Labor Day. The church is on St. Mary’s Road off FM 304 in String Prairie.

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Plenty to do locally for kids of all ages Playgrounds, athletic fields and open spaces abound in Bastrop County’s state and city parks. For youth looking for other forms of entertainment in Bastrop, however, there are options such as the Lost Pines 8 Movie Theaters, Bastrop Skating Palace and the splash park in Fisherman’s Park. Movies Get some popcorn and sit back in your chair – Bastrop has a movie house again. Schulman Partners, Ltd. of Bryan bought the dormant Chestnut Square Family Entertainment Center from First National Bank on March 9. The principal owners are Mark Schulman, Morris Schulman and Jeremy Thompson. “They signed all the papers” for purchase, confirmed Reid Sharp, president of the First National Bank, the seller of the property Mark Schulman said the theater will be called the Schulman Theatres Lost Pines 8. The plan to increase the current four screens to eight and have a sports bar and mini-golf to go with 16 lanes of bowling. The Schulman family has a long history in motion picture exhibition. Their business started in 1926 when grandfather Morris Schulman moved to Bryan and bought the Dixie and Queen Theaters. He later opened the Palace Theater, also in Bryan. Schulman Theatres remains a family business, operating two facilities in east Texas - the Dogwood 6 in Palestine and the Ritz Theatre in Crockett. Schulman Partners is also involved in the real estate business, in conjunction with their cinema locations. They offer pad sites for hotels, restaurants and retail businesses at the Palestine Family Entertainment Center and in Weatherford on Interstate 20. The Bastrop theatre features state-of-the-art stadium seat multiplexes. Outside of movies, another popular activity is the bowling alley that features 16 lanes with a “cosmic” setup, black lights and music. The sports bar offers a fully stocked array of beverages, billiard tables, a ten-foot projection screen and close to a dozen smaller televisions for watching sports. Trivia and poker night also regularly take place at the bar. The mini golf course features 18 indoor holes that can be played under black lights and the arcade offers a wide variety of games. With such a variety of entertainment located beneath one roof, Chestnut Square has become a popular spot for hosting local birthday parties. Skating Palace Not far away from the movie theater, another popular location for kids play is the Bastrop Skating Place. The skating rink is located on Texas 95 just past Bastrop High School and has been open for 23 years.

Youth and adults always have a fun time at the Bastrop Skate Palace on Texas 95. It’s the perfect place for birthday or private parties.

If you go Schulman Theatres Lost Pines 8 1600 Chestnut Street, Bastrop Phone: (512)321-0123 https://www.facebook. com/LostPines8

Schulman Theatres Lost Pines 8 will increase the current four screens to eight and have a sports bar and mini-golf to go with 16 lanes of bowling. The full-size rink is open for use each weekend and offers rollerblade and normal skate rentals. Splash Pad The Splash Pad Park encompasses an area

approximately one acre in size near the basketball court at Fisherman’s Park. Inside the splash pad area, water pours down and shoots up from nozzles on the ground. A theater, restrooms, picnic tables and a gaming table for seniors will also be available.

Bastrop Skating Palace Texas 95 north of Bastrop High School Phone: (512) 303-0320 Hours: Mon-Fri, 5-9 p.m.; Sat., 1-11 p.m.; Sunday, 1-6 p.m. Splashpad located in Fisherman’s Park, downtown Bastrop

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Unique outdoor dinosaur museum adventure Bastrop County is now home to a replica of one of the largest dinosaurs to walk the earth, the Brachiosaurus, at over 85 feet long. The tree-lined nature trail through Dinosaur Park offers visitors a look at some fauna of a different kind. How about a 10foot Coelophysis or a seven-ton Triceratops staring you in the face with no cages in the way? Do not worry. Dinosaurs are extinct, remember, and you won’t find them walking about the grounds. But you can find additional birds, fossils and giant insects hidden along the route. The park showcases 18 dinosaur replicas, each life-size and with realistic features. Each replica is custom-made and built to order. There is no dinosaur replica wholesale shop, so the Nunez family hires custom sculptors to build each one. There is also a playground, a Dino Dig sand pit for young aspiring paleontologist and a T-Rex head for some serious frightening photo-ops. There is a gift shop located in the administration building that offers dino-themed toys, games, books, shirts and much more for the young dinosaur fan. The Dinosaur Park is a family-owned

IF YOU GO n The park is open Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4p.m. during the school year. The park will be open six days a week for summer vacation. Closed on Monday. They are also available on weekdays throughout the year for reserved groups. n Admission is currently $7 per person. Children under the age of 24 months get into the park for free. n The Park is located on Union Chapel Road off Texas 71 in Cedar Creek. After passing the traffic light at Cedar Creek High School, take the next left U-turn onto Union Chapel Road. Once facing the Highway 71 RV Park turn immediately left and look for the sign and driveway. n For more information, call (512) 321-6262 or visit their website at www.thedinopark.com. business by Daniel and Linda Nunez. In 2002, their three-year-old son developed an interest in dinosaurs, and they looked for a place to visit that would be educational, yet fun and enjoyable. They wanted a place where dinosaurs appeared to be in their own natural environment, with realistic statues of scientifically correct sizes and features and apart from the learning experience, they also wanted a place where kids

could run and play. “When we couldn’t find exactly what we were looking for, we decided to build The Dinosaur Park for our kids and for your children too,” Nunez said. The Dinosaur Park opened at the end of 2005. “We enjoy adding and changing things each year as we continue to grow. We hope that all families will enjoy our nature park as much as we do,” Nunez said.

The Therizinosaurus is one of the four news replicas added this year to Dinosaur Park. It stands 26 feet tall and can weigh up to three tons. New additions to their collections at the park are replicas of a Therizinosaurus, Carnotaurus, Brachiosaurus and Deinonychus. The Dinosaur Park is open Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the school year. During summer vacation the park will be open six days a week; closed on Monday. Admission is currently $7 per person and children under 24 months get in free.

Babies come alive at the Capital of Texas Zoo forms the second-most educational Come on out in the evening, hear the outreach programs in the country lion roar, see the animals more active, and - more than 500 events each year, beat the heat at the Capital of Texas Zoo. Several macaws with large vocabulartrailing only the Jack Hanna-affiliaties, some of which use their language skills ed Columbus Zoo. The events range from petting to catcall passersby with sharp whistles, zoo displays to demonstrations with hey baby’s and seldom, I love you’ s. Close exotic reptiles, mammals and birds, to 100 Quaker parrots perch on wires and branches in their walk-through aviary. each of which are fun and educaA herd of guinea pigs stampede through tional. The Zoo is also available for field their low-walled enclosure. trips, with discounts for schools Perennial favorites like Comanche the within Bastrop County. mountain lion, Moses the camel, and Rajah Weekend shows are available at the Bengal white tiger still entertain guests. But there are plenty of new animals, too. 10:30 a.m. for the bird show and 2:30 p.m. for the famous Reptile Show. A mother Bennett’s Wallaby is caring for Tours are also available at 1 p.m. her new baby albino Joey and proud Ringon Saturday and Sunday. Pricing is tailed Lemur parents can be seen carrying $39 for adults and $29 for children around their two, one-month-old babies. A new baby Zebra is on the way and Wil- A proud mother of two, one- under the age of 12. debeest, endangered antelopes and hippos month-old baby Ring-tailed LeYou can feed lemurs, feed the zemurs can smell a banana from a bras, and watch the staff feeding the will arrive in June. Some of the animals in the Capital of mile away as the zoo keeper inch- big cats and every tour is different. The zoo is open 365 days a year. Texas Zoo’s collection are there on breeding es closer for a bite. Its summer hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. loan. Others are rescue animals – including a colony of prairie dogs rescued from near Lubbock. But on Sunday-Thursday and 9 a.m. - 10 p.m. on Friday and zoo director Michael Hicks says the main focus of the zoo Saturday, while the winter hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $8.99 for adults and $6.99 for children under is on education. According to Hicks, the Capital of Texas Zoo per- the age of 12.

IF YOU GO n Open 365 days a year. From Memorial Day to Labor Day the park is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday during the summer hours. Winter hours are 9 a.m. to 5p.m. n Admission is $8.99 for adults and $6.99 for children under the age of 12. All major credit cards and cash accepted. Checks are not accepted. Tickets can also be purchased online through their website. n The park is located at 376A Jenkins Road, off Texas 71 and South Pope Bend Road. Turn onto South Pope Bend Road from Texas 71 by Cedar Creek High School and follow signs all the way to the zoo. n For more information, call (512) 3036675 or visit their website at www.capitaloftexaszoo.org.

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Live music scene thrives in Bastrop area The live music scene in Bastrop County has been picking up steam in the past year. There is an increasing number of venues offering music including music halls, bars, restaurants, outdoor festivals and other communitysponsored events that are often supplemented with music. Many of the music standbys the past few years – such as Gracie’s on Pine Street, or The Lumberyard on Main Street – have increased the frequency of their live music events. And there are a fair amount of “open mike” nights – such as at the Bastrop American Legion Post or Ronnie’s One Oak (see addresses below) that offer amateurs a fun night of singing to programmed music. Listed below are many – but not all – of the live music venues around the county. Since entertainment venues sometimes open and close without notice, or revise their music schedules in the course of a month or year, other options for finding out about current live music happenings are the various chamber of commerce website listings for individual towns, checking local newspapers for weekly listings and watching for music notices often pasted up on the windows of local businesses. One Bastrop listing – www.musicinbastrop.com – is centered around The Lumberyard’s offerings, but also lists live music available at other spots.

Music venues:

American Legion Post 533, 3003 Loop 150, Bastrop; phone: (512) 321-5555, live music varies, karaoke on Wednesdays. Charlie’s in Smithville, 1200 NE Loop 230, phone: (512) 237-3382, open mike offered, call for updates. Cindy’s Downtown, 931 Main Street, Bastrop, phone (512) 321-117; karaoke, occasional live music. Cindy’s Gone Hog Wild, 5496 Texas 71 E. (Bastrop/Travis County line), phone: (512) 247-4600, live music varies. Grace Miller (Gracies) Restaurant, 706 Pine St. in Bastrop; phone: (512) 3322991, live music most weekends and often during the week. Lumberyard Music Hall, 1109 Main St., Bastrop; live music dates posted out front. See website for schedule: musicinbastrop.com. Maxine’s on Main, 905 Main St., Bastrop; phone: (512) 303-0919; live music varies. Ronnie’s One Oak Bar, 816 FM 1441, Bastrop; phone: (512) 321-0016, live music varies.

The Main Street American Swing Band, shown playing during Yesterfest, is led by Jeff Brister and is an example of Bastrop’s innovative music scene. Patricia’s Honky Tonk, 1128 Texas 21 E, Bastrop, phone: (512) 308-1348, live music on Saturdays, karaoke on Mondays and Fridays. Quoffers, 117 N. Main St. in Elgin; phone: (512) 281-0999; live music and karaoke. Bastrop VFW Post – corner Texas 21 East and FM 1441, occasional live music.

Bastrop Opera House

The stately Bastrop Opera House, located on Spring Street, is one of Bastrop great gems, and not just as a superb music/theatrical venue, but as one of the community’s favorite gathering spots. Its goal, says executive director, Chester Eitze, is to be “an historic structure that draws attention to Bastrop because we market the dramatic arts.”

To Eitze, the growth of the Opera House over the more than 25 years that he has been its director has mirrored the growth of Bastrop, beginning with vaudeville shows and short melodramas. Its repertoire gradually evolved, adding more shows, children’s theater and classes, a dinner theater and finally bringing big productions – “Camelot,” “Oliver!” and “The King and I.” Today, the Opera House puts on a variety of productions, including works that feature the talents of local writers. Some of the productions performed or announced for this year include “Echoes of Ireland,” written by local playwrights Nick and Bonnie Collier; the cabaret collection “Bastrop Salutes Broadway” and a reprise of “Always…Patsy Cline.” The flat floor and absence of fixed seating gives the main Opera House

space the flexibility to host meetings, luncheons, dinners, and more. It’s been used by a number of movie productions — Eitze says they’re often scouted because crews are excited about an antique opera house, but when they see the floor and seating arrangements they realize they can use it as a base of operations, a place for extras to sign in, meals to be eaten and wardrobes to be stored. A few years ago they constructed a haunted house on the Opera House floor for Halloween. Show schedules and event rental information can be found on the Opera House’s web page, www.bastropoperahouse.com. Shows typically run for four to six weeks on Friday and Saturday nights, with special performances held on Thursday evenings or as a Sunday matinee.

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Upstart plans a year of short comedy Upstart is going to be focusing on comedy this year, says Carolyn Banks, the nonprofit media group’s executive director. “When we started in 2000, our goal was to turn Bastrop into the rural media capital of Texas. I feel as though Bastrop is pretty much there, with an active film commission and a fair amount of movie industry interest because of it. Upstart contributed by making a feature, “Invicta,” and a wide range of narrative shorts, including “Plug In,” a musical. Now Upstart is turning its attention to come-

dy, with the goal of making Bastrop into ‘Comedy Central Texas’,” Banks says. Upstart’s comedy class is free to Upstart members ($25 a year) and meets every Saturday at 2 p.m. throughout the year. “The emphasis is on short comedy bits, not developed skits,” Banks says. “We’ll write them and produce them and show the best ones at our Off Kilter Xmas Film Festival in December. Think of the two-panel comedy you see in newspaper cartoons. The first panel is a set-up and the second

a resolution, usually ironic. The reason Upstart chose to focus on those is that ideas for them are fairly easy to come up with. The learning aspect will be scripting - writing them down in a way others can understand. And then, of course, we’ll be undertaking the production end too - how the bits can be performed, where the camera ought to be, how close or how far. So, it’s a production class as well as a writing and conception class.” The class will be ongoing throughout the year and Upstart is going to focus on bringing adult

students from La Grange, Columbus, Smithville, Paige and Elgin, as well as Austin and San Marcos. You can become an Upstart member online by going to www.upstartbastrop.com. Upstart membership also enables you to attend monthly screenings and educational discussions featuring little-known movies. Upstart will continue to run Bastrop Community Access Television (BCAT) for the City of Bastrop and its web site, where county commissioner court and city council meetings are shown.

The arts in Bastrop County are available everywhere In the thirteen years since the Bastrop Fine Arts Guild was formed, the membership has grown from that original handful to well over 100. The works of these artists, which consist of students, amateurs and seasoned professionals are showcased in their gallery at 1009 Main Street in Bastrop. Some of this space, in one of the historic buildings in the downtown section of the city, is provided by owners, Greg Warren and Patty Green. The gallery is open from 10 to 5 p.m. from Tuesday through Saturday. A different artist or theme is featured each month beginning with a reception on the first Friday from 6:00 until 8:00. Meetings are held in the Aqua Water building, 415 Old Austin Highway, on the first Tuesday of each month at 7:00PM. You can also visit the website at www.bastropfineartsguild.com. The BFAG is undertaking a transformational project that will salvage the historic Powell Cotton Seed Mill and silos and repurpose those buildings to house a vibrant art complex within one block of the new Convention Center and City Hall. The 9,000-sq.-ft. building will house a gallery, retail space, classrooms studios and food services. Funding for this and other projects is provided by individual and corporate donations as well as two major fund-raisers each year. “An Artful Afternoon”, an elegant garden party which takes place on the lawns of an historic home in Bastrop is held each April. Patrons have the opportunity to purchase art at both live and silent auctions while at the same time enjoying wine and food prepared by world class chefs. In October they sponsor a major arts and crafts festival on the county courthouse lawn. The R. A. Green Mercantile, at 1022 Main Street in Bastrop, houses a collection of four artists’ galleries. On the first Friday of each month, one of these galleries provides refreshments and holds a special event in the lobby. It could be a show of new work by a local artist, a theatrical performance or a themed show, but something special will be happening on the first Friday until 8pm. Four Bastrop County artists formed Artists

in Action to provide a place for local residents as well as visitors to have access to work made by artists who live and work right here in our community. Oil paintings, watercolors, wood carving, jewelry, pottery and sculpture are on the shelves in this colorful little shop. Everything is handmade and all work is original. Visitors often can find Jo Watts working on her watercolors in the lobby. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and until 8 on the First Friday. More information is available at www.JoWattsClaySmith. com, click on Artists in Action. ArtMakers Collective was the first to take up residence in the spring of 2010. After a few months, they had the works of more than 18 artists and had to expand their space. You’ll find an eclectic collection of pieces including wooden boxes, pottery, drawings done with a typewriter, jewelry and bronze sculpture. All the art is of high quality and very unique. Suzie Hettleman sometimes makes jewelry in the lobby while visitors watch. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday with a late night on the First Friday of each month. Lea Cundy’s Blue Donkey Studio showcases the hand-painted pottery of Lea and the glass jewelry and sculpture created by her son, Mark. Lea’s bluebonnet and wildflowers hand-painted on plates, bowls, vases and other pottery shapes are in galleries throughout Texas, including the Lady bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin. You’ll often find her at work painting bisque ware right there in the R.A. Green Lobby. This gallery is open every day from 10am to 5pm and also stays open late on the First Friday. Their website is www.bluedonkeystudio.com . Cuauhtemoc Perez’s studio/gallery is one you can’t miss. His acrylic and oil paintings, strongly influenced by his Mexican and Aztec heritage are big, dramatic and bright with color. Most friends call him Temo and his website is www.cuauhtemocperezart.com. His gallery is open by appointment. Deborah Johnson’s gallery is located 920 Main in Bastrop. She is an extraordinary oil

painter doing small-town urban landscapes. They’re colorful and realistic and many of them depict locations you’ve seen right here on Main Street.

Rendulic Glass

Tucked away in the trees of Cedar Creek, husband and wife, Mark and Patricia Rendulic run their glass art studio. With nearly two decades of experience in glass art, the studio is able to create anything from small sculpture to large architectural pieces. Patricia has found herself most intrigued by a 15th century glass art technique and made it her goal to recreate this art form. She has gone to great lengths to recapture this centuries old method that incorporates glass with metals such as gold, silver, copper, and bronze. In a special made torch, Mark heats glass at temperatures over 2,300 degrees to melt and forms a variety of figures and shapes in the glass. He finds glass to be more challenging than traditional sculptural art forms. His many years of training and experimenting give him the ability to create just about anything he can conceive. Every commission that Mark receives is just as exciting as the first day he spent watching a sculptor create. Located in Cedar Creek and open by appointment (512) 985-5168.

Jo Watts ClaySmith

Set in the woods between Smithville and Bastrop you’ll find Jo’s place. It’s a working studio, a retail gallery and a place of learning several forms of art. She often holds weekend workshops, day and evening classes for adults and art camps for children. Her first love choice of medium is clay but this artist is proficient in several areas. The gallery is open by appointment and you can learn more by going to the website: www. JoWattsClaySmith.com or calling 512-577-5252. The Lost Pines Artisans’ Alliance was formed in 2005 by a few Smithville artists who wanted to not only promote their art but to work with the community to make Smithville a better place to live. After only two years in existence, this orga-

nization was chosen “organization of the year” because of all the community projects it had sponsored. You’ll find public art in the forms of “Art on a Stick”, painted fireplugs all over the town. Jeff Snyder, encouraged by the LPAA, has completed a 28 foot tall sculpture of stainless steel and iron which will soon be erected. The LPAA is housed in the Mary Nichols Arts Center, a historic home at 301 Burleson in Smithville. This arts and crafts style house belongs to the city of Smithville but the group pays a nominal rent and is responsible for all the upkeep. Financing is obtained through fundraising events and sales in the gallery which is open Fridays 1pm to 4pm, Saturdays 11am to 4pm and Sundays 1pm to 4pm. The shows in the gallery are themed and change every two months. Free art classes and workshops have been provided for the youth in the area and classroom space is available for teachers to hold their own classes and workshops. The LPAA contributes to the Blue Santa program which provides toys for needy children at Christmas and it supports the Emergency Food Bank and the Community Garden. The Empty Bowl Project is held at the Mary Nichols to benefit these two volunteer organizations. In 2011, LPAA volunteers organized Smithville students to hand-paint or hand-make more than 400 bowls to contribute to this event. Meetings are held in the arts Center at 6:30pm on the third Tuesday of each month and visitors are welcome. For more information to the website at www.LostPinesArtisansAl liance.org

Chel Gallery

Chel Art Gallery celebrates the creative spirit of the Smithville community by showcasing selected local and regional artist. It is a cooperative gallery featuring a variety of media, including painting, sculpture, drawings, and jewelry. Located at 207 Olive Street in Smithville, it is open Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and by appointment by calling 512-4979502 Chel’s is also available for art classes, floral design, jewelry making and poetry readings.

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A welcome from Bastrop County Historical Society Museum A visitor to Bastrop can find out what brought him here, a resident can find out why he stays, and a researcher can find out what has happened here! The Bastrop County Historical Society Museum serves regional visitors, residents new and old, genealogical and historical researchers, and tourists who come here just for the fun of it. Tourists who come by bus can schedule the Society’s popular group tours. Call the museum at 512-303-0057 to schedule a guide for tours through the historic residential district.

Since its establishment in 1952, the Historical Society has worked diligently to collect and preserve materials and documents relating to the history of Bastrop and Bastrop County. Museum artifacts span more than 200 years...from when Native Americans foraged widely through the area to the latter part of the 20th Century. The Society’s library contains books, publications and files on the history of Bastrop County, its towns, its communities, its historical homes and families. Cemetery records, family files and many out-of-print materials are available for research. Staff will be delight-

ed to assist and to make copies of documents. The photograph archive is extensive. There are more than 2,400 photographs which include, among other things, a picture of the 1889 reunion of Terry’s Texas Rangers, classroom pictures of rural schools in the late 1800s, a fat man contest on Bastrop’s Main Street in about 1900, the 1889 Old Iron Bridge across the Colorado at Bastrop, and the beautiful entrance into the cemetery for German prisoners of war at Camp Swift. 2012 is a year of transition for the Historical Society. Its museum will move from its home of 60-plus years to a new location in

the heart of downtown Bastrop. Watch for the opening of the new Museum and Visitor Center by the latter part of this year. The “old” museum is located at 702 Main, just a block from downtown. The “new” museum will be located in the heart of downtown at 904 Main. The phone number for both locations is 512-303-0057. Hours are 1-5 p.m. Monday through Friday, Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $2 for adults and children 12 and under free. To learn more about Bastrop county history, visit museums in neighboring Elgin, McDade, Paige, Rockne, and Smithville.

Bastrop’s Main Street is still a draw for visitors and residents alike – but it’s changed little since the days of this picture. The Hoppe-Hasler family enjoy a picnic on the banks of the Colorado River.

An early picture of the school band from Emile High School.

CCC workers working in the state park in the 1930s busily dig out what is to become the pool – open today for a refreshing swim.

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Locally grown food in Bastrop County Four years ago in June, 2008, Jacque Gates and her husband Jim McCracken opened Bastrop Producers Market, Inc. in the 5,500 sq. ft. no frills building among the oak trees on Texas 71 about three miles west of Bastrop. The flyer says it is a “New Kind of Farmers Market that offers locally produced, sustainable and organic food,” local baked goodies, pastured meat and more. Jacque says “we sell for the producers so they don’t have to be here six days a week and it gives local residents more opportunity to buy local products.” Shopping in this open, high ceilinged space with simple wooden shelving and wide aisles is a peaceful, unhurried experience. Seasonal produce is offered for sale along with jars and bottles of locally produced preserves, sauces, pickles of all kinds and baked goods. The variety of the produce does not compare with the local chain grocery store, however, everything here is in season, fresh and most everything is produced in Bastrop County. Most produce, with a few clearly labeled exceptions, comes from no farther away than 200 miles or so. A few staple vegetables such as potatoes, onions and tomatoes are sold all year long and come from other areas of the country when they won’t grow near here and it says so on the sign. Bread is from a local bakery, the Richards Family Bakery in Bastrop. Honey comes from local bees in hives on the Spotted Goat Farms. Hill Country Homestyle makes salsa, pickles and the very popular pickled garlic. Free range yard eggs are available. Everything for sale here is clearly labeled organic or chemical free, and pesticide free but a few things are labeled that they are grown in a conventional manner. Even the name of the family that grew the produce and the location of the farm where it was grown are noted on the label. There is no GMO food sold here and most everything is grown in a sustainable way, meaning that no chemical pesticides or fertilizers are used and that soil amendments are natural and from the grower or nearby sources. There are a few items that obviously cannot come from local sources, and one of these is maple syrup. Another is coffee but this is roasted and ground in the Austin area. Coolers at the ends of the aisles are filled with pasture grown meats raised on local ranches in humane conditions. All of the meats are hormone and antibiotic free. After the real food shopping is finished shoppers can browse the shelves for tempting dessert items made by Hippychick.

Bastrop 1832

Get your locally-grown delicious food – plus many other arts and crafts items – at the local farmers’ markets. These are irresistible chocolate and white chocolate, dried fruit and nut, concoctions that look scrumptious and are. There is a variety of gluten free foods for sale including sweets made by Glutenless Gluttony. Anyone on a gluten free diet knows how hard it is to find foods that are gluten free and delicious too. Handcrafted items, many made from recycled materials are arranged on the outside, window aisles. Bill Newbold creates lovely, small pieces of furniture out of the short ends of lumber and odd tiles that the big box hardware outfits put on sale at deep discounts. These pieces are creative, beautifully crafted and perfect for a small space in a home or apartment that needs just a little place to hold a telephone, a few books, a glass of wine or a coffee cup. Soft crafts like hand-made rugs, shrugs and baby gifts are nicely done and very reasonably priced. These are all labors of love, Jacque says. There are even some quirky hand drawn birthday cards. Soaps and skin care made locally is offered also. One unusual feature of Bastrop Producers Market, Inc. is the certified commercial kitchen that is available for entrepreneurs who have an idea for a commercial food product and need a place to cook. This kitchen is available for a reasonable hourly rate. Cooks must bring their own cookware and utensils. The hours of operation are Tuesday

through Friday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, 12-5 p.m.

River Valley Farmers Market

River Valley Farmers’ Market has furnished the residents of Bastrop County with fresh and locally grown vegetables and fruits for 25 years. There are three markets located in Bastrop, Elgin and Smithville. RVFM is a grower’s only market, which simply means that they grow what they sell. They have fresh vegetables, fruit, nuts, breads, baked goods, eggs, meats, plants, flowers, gourds, herbs, crafts and more. Visit soon and discover how good fresh food really is! New vendors are always welcome to help supply Bastrop County with the freshest local vegetables and fruit. Craft vendors are invited as well. For information on how to join the River Valley Farmers’ Market, check the website. The market belongs to Go Texan Organization, Texas Certified Farmers Markets Assoc., and Chambers of Commerce for Bastrop, Elgin & Smithville. They are also recognized as a Certified Farmers Market by the Texas Department of Agriculture. WIC Coupons Accepted At All Locations Contact www.rivervalleyfarmersmar ket.com for more information.

“Buy local food – sustain local farms” is the slogan of the Bastrop 1832 Farmer’s Market. This market, selling fresh, local produce and locally grown meat, is a certified Farmers Market located at 1302 Chestnut Street (by the railroad tracks). Seasonal freshly picked vegetables are sold year around. Grass fed beef, Berkshire pork and free-range chickens are also available on most sale days. All of the produce is grown organically and meat is from small local ranches and farms, not factory operations. Yard eggs, herbed cheeses made from locally raised goats milk, scented soaps and candles, bottled salsas and sauces, and baked goods round out the offerings of local vendors. Plants in pots and hanging baskets and artisan creations are also offered for sale. New vendors and new offerings are being added as the success of this market continues. On pleasant days the market is held outdoors. When the weather turns sour, the market is held in a metal building at the back of the large property. In any weather, shopping at the Bastrop 1832 Farmers Market is a pleasant experience of choosing each item, talking with the grower, perhaps learning something interesting about farming and gardening and is reminiscent of a more relaxed and simpler time when the origin of the food on the table was well-known. Bastrop 1832 Farmers Market hours are: Tuesdays, 2:30-6 p.m. and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m..

Bastrop Gardens

“We’re bloomin’ beautiful” at Bastrop Gardens at 316 Old 71. This full-service nursery specializes in native Texas plants and plants that attract butterflies and hummingbirds. The owners have committed to organic methods of fertilizing and pest control in their own flower gardens. The owners have mature butterfly and hummingbird plantings and sponsor a Butterfly/Dragonfly festival in July every year. The vegetables in the pick-your-own vegetable garden are all organically grown and priced as they are sold in farmer’s markets, by the bucket or the bunch. Bring children and grandchildren to help pick the produce. They may not know what tomatoes on the vine smell, feel and taste like or that onions grow big in the ground. For information on what is ripe for the picking, check the website, www.bastrop gardens.com.

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Plenty to offer at Bastrop Senior Center If you are a senior, 50 years old plus, and you are looking for a place to play cards, exercise and hang out with friends, then you may want to look in at the Bastrop Senior Center, 1008 Water St. in Bastrop. Stop by the front desk, pick up a newsletter and a calendar. There are activities every week day. Some are active such as Line Dancing every Monday at 1 p.m. and exercise classes on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at different times of the day and some are sedentary, like the Texas Hold “Em” card games and Progressive “42” dominoes on Fridays. Some activities consist of watching others dance, pick and play. Cloggers come to dance on Monday evenings at 5 p.m. and the Kitchen Pickers country and western band plays every Tuesday night from 6-9 p.m. Games, Bingo, crafts and speakers are scheduled during the week at different times of the day. There is a full schedule every weekday. The Center is closed for members’ activities on Saturdays and Sundays. Call 512-303-0072 for more information.

Quilters

One of the longest running, most active groups of Seniors are the Bastrop Senior Center Quilters. This group of quilters has been responsible for making, by hand, a beautiful original design quilt every year for a raffle to help raise money for the senior center. The quilt is hand-quilted by all the quilters who sit around a large quilting frame. The Senior Center Quilters group has a list of about 25 member quilters. Members meet every Monday morning from 9 a.m. to noon at the center in a dedicated room in the back of the hall to design, sew, learn new techniques, catch up with each other’s lives, children, grandchildren, pets, travels

There’s plenty to do at Bastrop Senior Center, but if you like to quilt, or want to learn how, come join the quilters who meet every Monday from 9 a.m. to noon. and anything else. Not everyone comes every week and not everyone is on time every week. And that’s OK. This is a creative group and many are accomplished experienced quilters. But no one has to be an “expert” quilter to join in. The quilters are more than happy to share their techniques and knowledge with less experienced quilters. No one is there to intimidate another quilter. The raffle quilt is one of the main projects that everyone works on together, but there are other projects that these crafters work on. The Senior Quilters have a relationship with the Children’s Advocacy Center

in Bastrop. When a child is removed from a home, the child receives a stuffed animal and a quilt to call their own and keep. The Bastrop Senior Center Quilters have been making stuffed animals and designing and making quilts for these children. Each quilt is designed by the individual quilter. Each quilt is different and beautiful. They are designed for different ages and for both boys and girls. The sizes also vary from crib size to lap quilts. Each one is a work of art and an example of the quilting craft. The Senior Center Quilters made and donated 67 of these quilts to the Children’s Advocacy Center last year. The first

group of 26 quilts for the year 2012 is finished. Each quilt has a label hand sewn onto the back that says “Stitched with love for___________________by the Bastrop Senior Center Quilters. When a child chooses a quilt, the child’s name is written in the space. A representative from Children’s Advocacy said that each child spends a lot of time choosing just the right quilt that speaks to that child. If you are looking for a group that works on a creative craft, gives the work to a worthy cause, has a lot of fun and a gourmet banquet once a month, consider the Bastrop Senior Center Quilters.

County libraries hold a wealth of information The Bastrop Public Library is located at 1100 Church St. and can be reached at (512) 321-5441 or www. bastroplibrary.org. The library’s collection encompasses nearly 48,000 books and other materials, including local history collections, genealogical reference books and copies of The Bastrop Advertiser available on microfilm dating back to the 1850s. Public-access computers are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, in addition to wireless Internet throughout the building. There are also study halls and meeting and conference rooms.

The library also offers story time from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday and Friday for ages toddlers to three. The library is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday; from 1-9 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday; and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. It is closed Sunday.

fers periodicals, meeting and study rooms, wireless internet and computer stations for patrons. The Elgin library is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday; from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday and Friday; and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. It is closed on Sunday and Monday.

Elgin Public Library

Smithville Public Library

The Elgin Public Library is located at 310 N. Main St. and can be reached at (512) 2815678 or at elginpubliclibrary.org. In addition to books, the Elgin library of-

The Smithville Public Library is located at 507 Main St. and can be reached at (512) 237-3282 or www.smithvillepubliclibrary. org. The library has meeting and study

rooms, a drive-up book return and numerous historical resources, including family histories, cemetery maps and county census records. That’s in addition to computers, Internet access and books and periodicals. This summer, they’re hosting a summer reading club for youth on Wednesdays at 2 p.m. There will be performances in the library each week and participants will be able to take part in a finale party in mid-July. The Smithville library is open Monday and Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Thursday and Friday; from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

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Native Americans were first inhabitants of county area City of Bastrop (provided from Texas Historical Commission markers)

The Bastrop region was inhabited by Tonkawa and Comanche Indians long before white men arrived. In 1691, the first Spanish explorers crossed this territory en route to east Texas. From their route, parts of El Camino Real (the King’s Highway) were blazed, thus placing Bastrop on a major early travel artery. Because El Camino Real crossed the Colorado River here, this was a strategic spot. In 1805, Fort Puesta del Colorado and accompanying community were founded here to protect commerce on the road. In 1825, this area became known as Mina, one of the first settlements in the colony of Stephen F. Austin. It was named for revolutionary leader Xavier Mina. In the years that followed, many members of its first 100 families served in the Texas Revolution (1836), the Mexican War (1846-1848), and were active in political life in the Republic and State of Texas. In 1837 when the town incorporated, the name was changed to Bastrop to honor the Baron de Bastrop, influential early land agent and statesman. The city was also designated county seat in 1837. From 1851-1870, this was seat of Bastrop Military Academy, an important Texas school. First courthouse was built in 1853; present one in 1883 on the same spot.

Elgin

After Houston & Texas Central Railroad built through this area in 1871, town was platted (1872) and named for Robert M. Elgin (1825-1913), H. & T. C. land commissioner. Brick and tile, for which Elgin is widely known, have been chief products here since 1882, when Thomas O’Connor (1846-1937) made hand-molded, sundried brick. Other manufacturing and agricultural products bolster the economy. Settlers of six ethnic origins have made the city a center of cultural richness, with good homes, churches and schools. Elgin was founded 1871 when nearby pioneer Hogeye citizens moved the town site to the newly completed Houston & Texas Central Railroad. The town is named for surveyor R. M. Elgin and known as the “Brick Capital of the Southwest.” Handpressed brick was made as early as 1882, and the area was also noted as an agricultural center.

Smithville

In 1691 missionaries on the expedition of Don Domingo Teran de Los Rios sighted a lagoon which the Indians called Nenocadda. The lagoon, known today as

The approach to downtown Bastrop shows the official platting of the town in 1832. Shipp’s Lake, is on the southern edge of present Smithville. Frederick W. Grasmeyer operated a ferry here on the Colorado River in 1836. Steamboats plied the river from 1845 to about 1865. The village of “Old Smithville” was laid out on 640 acres of land granted to Thomas J. Gazley and Lewis Lomas. The town was located along the Colorado River in the northeast section of present Smithville. There were mercantile stores, dry good shops, and a Masonic lodge. In 1876 the first post office was established with John Pride Jones as postmaster. The Taylor, Bastrop & Houston Railroad, later a part of the Missouri, Kansas & Texas system, arrived in 1887, and the town relocated along the tracks. The legend is that a coin was tossed to decide if the name would be changed to Burlesonville for Murray Burleson, who gave land for the railroad depot. The coin toss resulted in “Smithville” being retained as the name, apparently in honor of pioneer settler William Smith. The town was incorporated in 1895 and T. C. Collins served as the first mayor.

Paige

Paige does not have a historical marker, but was established at the site of a railroad water tower on the newly built Houston and Texas Central Railway in 1872 and named for Norman Paige, a civil engineer, who had laid out the route of the railway. In 1876, the railway station was moved three miles east to its present location. Fedor Soder arrived

in 1877, built a store and a gin, and purchased and sold many town lots to other Germans; the population is still primarily German.

McDade

McDade was laid out 1871 and named for James McDade, a Brenham lawyer. It became a thriving town, important freight center and early-day stage stop. A combination school-church was built 1872. In 1883, vigilantes lynched three men on Christmas Eve, causing a shoot-out the next day at the Rock Saloon, which is now a museum.

Red Rock

The town of Red Rock grew at the crossing of the Austin-Port Lavaca Stagecoach Road (now FM 812) and the Bastrop-Gonzales Trail (now CR 229). In 1892 the town moved one mile east to the newly-laid railroad. This site, with more than 370 graves, is the burial place of pioneer settlers, including Texas trail drivers and veterans of the Texas Revolution, the Mexican War, and the Civil War. The first documented burial was in 1864. Earlier graves may have been lost when homemade sandstone markers were removed. The cemetery is maintained by descendants of area pioneers.

Rockne

Beginning as a farming community, Rockne traces its roots to German set-

tlers who came to the area in the 1840s. In November 1846, the Daniel and Mortiz Lehman families arrived at Indianola, Tx. from Schlesien, Prussia. They soon settled in this vicinity on Walnut Creek. Later, Andreas and Franz Meuth arrived from Wurges, Germany and settled on Sandy Creek. Also from Wurges, John Wilhelm, John Wolf, John Hartman and Philip Goertz arrived in 1856 and established farms along Walnut Creek. In 1876, Philip Goertz and Michael Wolf donated land to area settlers to build the first Catholic church, Ascension of Christ Church. The building was destroyed by an arsonist’s fire in 1891. The next year, on land donated by John T. Lehman, local residents established the Sacred Heart Church and Cemetery. During its long history, the community has been known by many names. First called Walnut Creek because of its proximity to the stream, it was known as Lehman when a store and post office was established in 1900 with Martin Lehman as postmaster. The settlement later came to be called Hilbigville, after William Hilbig and his sons opened a general store. In 1931, the children of Sacred Heart School renamed the town in honor of Knute Rockne, the renowned coach of Notre Dame University, who died in a plane crash earlier that year. Rockne continues to be a rural community, with Sacred Heart Catholic Church at its center.

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A stroll through historic downtown Bastrop Choose among five trails, depending upon your interest

Downtown Trail

Begin your tour at the Bastrop Visitor Center, 1016 Main Street. This is the second site of the First National Bank of Bastrop, built in 1889 of local brick and lumber. Stop by to see the preserved interior and for information about dining, shopping and recreation in Bastrop.

Next door, toward Spring Street, is the R. A. Green Mercantile, 1022 Main Street. This building was recently renovated by the Calvary Episcopal Church and is now a small business incubator. On the other side of the Visitor Center, at 1010 Main Street, is the two-story 1883 Haynie Building, which boasts an ornate parapet. It is now a hip boutique, Rock N Threads.

The Deli Depot, 1006 Main, is in the Erhard Building, built in 1895. It has a pressed tin awning ceiling, tiled entry and brass window moldings.

On the corner, you will see the Nelson Burch Building at 930-932 Main Street, constructed after the 1862 fire. Its pitched roof blew off in a storm years ago.

J. C. Buchanan built a one-story building at 1002 Main, now Bastrop Copier, and 1004 Main Street, now Anita’s Café, in 1880. The building was divided in half and, over the years, both halves passed through the hands of many Bastrop families. For the first time in 124 years, both halves are again under the same owner. The 1004 half, vacant for over 30 years, was beautifully restored in 2007.

The Citizens State Bank Building, 928 Main, was built circa 1909, a sample of late the Victorian era.

If you will step to your right, down Chestnut, you will see the bridge across the Colorado River, built in 1922-1923. Continue south on Main Street.

Le’ Roux, at 912 Main, serves patrons in the building which was, in 1891, the shop of tailor William Kesselus. Take note of the cast iron columns and pressed tin cornices with urn finials. Carl Kleinert owned the building at 910 Main, also built in 1891.

The next building, which is currently the Bastrop Picture Frame Emporium and the Shabby Chic Boutique at 926 Main, dates back to 1905. Legend Built together in circa 1900, the buildings at 918 and 920 Main were called the Knittle Buildings after the local shoemaker and his two sons who owned them. They are now The Bridges Building and Liza Jane.

Bastrop Opera House

For a group tour of historic homes or Fairview Cemetery, contact the Bastrop County Historical Society Museum at 512-303-0057.

The building at 914 Main is John’s Hair Design. The building has served as a barber shop since the late 1800s.

Visitor Center

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for Bastrop Trails

Downtown Trail Historic Homes Trail Homes Chestnut Street Trail Fairview Cemetery Trail June Hill Pape Riverwalk Trail Visitor Information sources: Bastrop Visitor Center - 1016 Main Bastrop Chamber of Commerce - 927 Main • Museum - 702 Main Bastrop Opera House - 711 Spring Parking • •

Bastrop Convention & Exhibit Center

Chestnut Square

Chamber City Hall Old County Jail & Courthouse

Museum

For more information about any of the Bastrop Trails, call the Bastrop Visitor Center at 512.303.0904 or go to www.VisitBastrop.org. © Produced by the Museum and Visitor Center of the Bastrop County Historical Society. All rights reserved.

The Bastropian 2012-13 The building on the corner, 904 Main Street was first a firehouse, then a jail, Bastrop’s City Hall and in 2012, will be the Museum and Visitor Center of the Bastrop County Historical Society. Next, pass Wells Fargo Bank and walk to the beautiful historic home at 802 Main. P.O. Elzner arrived in Bastrop in 1858. In 1890, he built this home in a style called “Carpenter Gothic.” Here, dry goods were unloaded from ferries on the river for his store located on the corner of Main and Spring. Stop for a moment at the Museum at 702 Main. Nestled on the banks of the Colorado River, just north of the Old Ferry Crossing, is a building that now houses the Museum. In 1850, the building was home to John Cornelison, a settler. Cross the street and head back toward downtown. First you’ll see Apothecary Hall, built in the 1870s on the site of one of Bastrop’s early businesses which carried the same name. The oldest building in downtown Bastrop is at 811 Main Street, built to serve as a storehouse in 1846. On the corner of Water and Pine is the Old County Jail, built in 1891, a masterpiece of late 19th century second empire Victorian. It was also the site of several hangings and still has the infamous “hanging hook” on its second floor.

Adjacent to the jail, at 804 Pine, is the Bastrop County Courthouse, which was built in 1883-1884 and altered substantially in the 1920s. Return to Main Street and turn right. You’ll see Maxine’s on Main Restaurant, housed in a building constructed circa 1866. Next door, at 909 Main, is the Bauhoff building, now Taylor’s Chiropractic Clinic, built mid to late 1800s. The Book Basket now occupies the 1887 Prokop Building at 913 Main. Michel August Prokop was a master shoemaker. Continue on to Baxters on Main, located in the 1890s Louis Eilers Building. Just past the Bastrop Chamber of Commerce, in operation since 1922, is the T. A. Hasler Building, at 931 Main, built in the 1870s. Hasler was a prominent merchant and property owner in Bastrop. It is now Cindy’s Downtown. Around the corner, at 717 Chestnut Street, is the Julius Theilman Building, built in 1892. Return to Main. W. J. Miley built and opened a drug store at 1003 Main in 1905, complete with a soda fountain which is still in operation. Now Lock Drug, this site has been occupied since 1855, once the office of Dr. David Sayers, father of Texas Governor Joseph Sayers.

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Beside the alley is the 1895 A. A. Elzner Mercantile Building, currently First National Bank. On the corner is the P. O. Elzner building at 1025-1027 Main Street.

1403 Main: Brooks-Wilbarger House, Circa 1852 James, the son of Josiah Wilbarger, who survived being shot and scalped by marauding Indians, lived here.

Around the corner, on the right, is the Bastrop Opera House at 711 Spring. Built in 1889, it was restored in the late 1980s. Here you can still enjoy live performances of vaudeville, melodramas, musicals and comedies.

1307 Main: White-Turner House, Circa 1890 Constructed of pine and cypress, this Victorian home has a copper cistern in the attic. In 1901, renown jockey, Nash Turner, bought this house for his mother.

Historic Homes Trail

1208 Church: H. B. Combs House, Circa 1912 This was the home of Dr. Henry Burris Combs and his wife, Dorothy.

1307 Church: Hall-Sayers-Perkins House, Circa mid 1800s: This is the home of Dr. and Mrs. David Sayers, whose sons attended the Bastrop Military Institute. One son, Joseph, became Governor. 

1402 Church: H. P. Luckett House, Circa 1892 This is a grand Victorian, built on the site of the Bastrop Military Institute. 

1408 Church: Allen-Bell House, Circa 1856 From 1859 to 1866, this was the home of Major R. D. Allen, Commandant of the Bastrop Military Institute. 

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1404 Wilson: Allen Fowler House, Circa 1880 Sam Houston dined in this house which served as a dormitory for students attending the Bastrop Military Academy.

1501 Church: Rufus A. Green House, Circa 1888 Rufus A. Green, first owner of the 1889 First National Bank, lived here. At that time, it was a one-story cottage.

Fairview Cemetery Trail

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The 1890 Old Iron Front Saloon, with its second story raised parapet of pressed tin, now houses the Bastrop Fine Arts Guild Gallery, as well as other shops, at 1009 Main.

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1508 Church: B. D. Orgain House, Circa 1881 B. D. Orgain, a prominent businessman, and his wife, Drusilla, owned this home. 602 Cedar: Sarah Orgain House, Circa 1867 For 57 years, this was the home of Mrs. Sarah Jane Orgain, a leader in educational and cultural affairs of early Bastrop. 1402 Wilson: CrocheronMcDowall House, Circa 1857 Henry Crocheron came to Bastrop from Alabama in 1837. He bought a 12-acre lot and, with his wife, built this Greek Revival home.

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Chestnut Street Trail

Fairview Cemetery Trail

The Visitor Center offers a guide with histories behind the bronze-cast medallions embedded in the sidewalks along Chestnut. These were created by Deep in the Heart Art Foundry. Also see the Bastrop City Hall, Convention & Exhibit Center and Shulman Lost Pines 8 Movie Theater.

In the stone gazebo, built by the Bastrop County Historical Society, there are short biographies of early settlers and tributes to veterans from the War of 1812 through the Persian Gulf War.

Governor Joseph Sayers and the first African-American legislator, Robert Kerr, are buried at Fairview. See the “War Babies” plot where infants who died during World War II were buried. Here, the Historical Society later placed a guardian angel monument.

June Hill Pape Riverwalk Trail

Just beyond the library, you’ll see steps to the June Hill Pape Riverwalk, named for a community leader, along the Colorado River. Stroll one-half mile from Fisherman’s Park to Ferry Park. Then, stop at the Museum before returning to the Riverwalk for your trip back to your vehicle. Feed the ducks or relax beside the river and dream of days long ago in Bastrop, Texas.

The Bastropian 2012-13

City of Bastrop Bus Routes

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The Bastropian 2012-13

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The Bastropian 2012-13

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For individual city maps contact each city’s Chamber of Commerce (see p. 5). Map recreated from a map provided by DRW Marketing & Advertising, Inc.

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The Bastropian 2012-13

Antiques Apothecary’s Hall Antiques 805 Main St., Bastrop (512) 321-3022

Apothecary’s Hall Antiques, owned and operated by Elaine Solomon, is housed in one of Bastrop’s historic homes, circa 1839. In business in various downtown locations for 27 years, Apothecary’s Hall has been in its present location since 1994. Much of the house retains its original features, such as a long leaf pine floor and milk paint walls. The rooms are filled with a variety of antiques and collectibles, featuring 19th- and 20th-century furniture, lamps, pottery, fine china and glassware, linens, toys, books and vintage jewelry. A cabinet from Bastrop’s Miley Drug Store, which once displayed medicine and various sundries, now showcases a collection of 1800s-1900s pattern glass, Depression glass, etched stemware and other items. Elaine and sister Lois strive to provide friendly service and offer items for sale in all price ranges. Business hours are Monday through Friday, noon to 5 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and by appointment.

Hollyhocks & Hand-Me-Downs 805B Main St., Bastrop (512) 321-3022

Hollyhocks & Hand-Me-Downs, located in the cottage garden behind Apothecary Hall Antiques, is designed and furnished by Celeste Solomon Doty of Temple, Texas. The cottage was built using repurposed and salvaged elements of the owner’s great-grandparent’s 1900s farmhouse. Its rustic charm is the perfect backdrop for Celeste’s country to

mid-century furnishings, repurposed home and garden décor, yard art, vintage clothing, accessories and original artwork. Hours coincide with Apothecary Hall Antiques which are Monday through Friday, 12-5 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Access to the shop is through the antiques store at 805 Main St.

The Magpie Trading & Co./ Bluwr Myles Antiques 909 Chestnut St., Bastrop (512) 914-1281 (210) 313-7057

The Magpie Trading & Co. moved to 909 Chestnut St. in the latter part of April and partnered with Lou Davis of Bluwr Myles Antiques. Lou is a kindred spirit in every sense of the word. She owns more than 50 pairs of western boots in her private collection, most of which are vintage. She also has a huge offering of vintage clothing, including the prom dresses that shoppers hunt her down for at the Warrenton-Round Top show for their Prom Night. The Magpie Trading & Co. will carry its usual “shabby” and antique finds, handcrafted seasonal items, along with candles, soaps and other gift offerings. The rusty, crusty, chipped and x-used “treasures” will still be available, it’s a Magpie thing. Shoppers will be welcomed every day from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. except Sunday, which is from 1:30-5 p.m. The store is closed on Wednesdays. In the 1930s the building at 909 Chestnut was a gas station, the ladies will be working on making the old bay area into a garden room, it will house plant stands, garden furniture, etc. The store hopes to see all its old friends soon and to make many new ones at the new location.

The Magpie Trading & Co. carries “shabby” and antique finds, hand-crafted seasonal items, along with candles, soaps and other gift offerings. Partner Bluwr Myles Antiques has a huge offering of vintage clothing and western boots.

Much of the house where Apothecary’s Hall Antiques is located retains its original features, such as a long leaf pine floor and milk paint walls. The rooms are filled with a va- Hollyhocks & Hand-Me-Downs, located in the cottage garden behind Apothecary Hall Anriety of antiques and collectibles, featuring 19th- and 20th-century furniture, lamps, pot- tiques, is full of country to mid-century furnishings, repurposed home and garden décor, tery, fine china and glassware, linens, toys, books and vintage jewelry. yard art, vintage clothing, accessories and original artwork.

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The Bastropian 2012-13

Shopping Art Connections Gallery 705F Pine Street Bastrop, TX 78602 artconnectionsgallerybastrop. com (512) 657-4275 djohnsonart2006@yahoo.com

Art Connections Gallery is located in a quaint historic cottage on Pine Street across from Gracie’s Restaurant. It features the paintings of owner Deborah Johnson, as well as the works of over 30 other artists. The artwork is in a variety of mediums from knitted clothing to welded steel sculpture, carved wood to jewelry. For the customer looking for decorative art for home or office, there is a large selection of pottery, mosaics, glass, mobiles, kimono silk and wood. For the serious art collector, there are sculptures in bronze and stone and paintings in oils, pastel and watercolor. Those looking for personal or gift items should check out the jewelry, handmade books, scarves and handmade cards and stationary. The gallery also carries books by local writers and CD’s of local musicians. The motto of the gallery is “where art becomes heart” because 10% of every sale goes to charity. Each artist has designated the charity to benefit from their sales and these range from local charities that support the food pantry, animal shelter, restoration and rebuilding after the September fires to national and international charities. The gallery also offers special events, such as First Friday Art Walk receptions, demonstrations during Pine Street Market Days and special Sunday afternoon music concerts in the yard. Check the website artconnectionsgallerybastrop.com for schedule of events.

Artmakers Collective 1022 Main Street, Suite D Bastrop (512) 308-0988

Located in the historic R.A. Green Mercantile, Artmakers Collective is a contemporary co-operative gallery representing local artists and artisans working in a wide range of media. Started in 2010 by five members in one tiny room, Artmakers now features the work of 12 local artists in more than double the space. Choose the perfect gift for yourself or that special someone from an eclectic selection of fine and fun jewelry, functional and sculptural ceramics, wonderful wood and fiber work, drawings, prints, collages, bronzes and quirky found object dolls. Be sure to stop by and see all the great local talent that Bastrop has to offer. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sundays during the holiday season. On the first Friday of each month, from

The 1832 Farmers Market is open on Tuesday from 2-6 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Market, located at 1302 Chestnut St., across from city hall and next Art Connections Gallery is located in a quaint historic cottage on Pine Street across from to the convention center, is open year round. Gracie’s Restaurant.

B&B Auto supply is owned by Jim and Jessica Attra and has been in business 13 years. They sell auto supplies, farm equipment and have a full-service small engine sales and service department. 6-8 p.m., Artmakers hosts an open house and featured artist reception in conjunction with the Mercantile’s five sister shops and the nearby Bastrop Fine Arts Guild.

B&B Auto Supply 1101 Chestnut St., Bastrop (512) 321-2122

B&B Auto supply is owned by Jim and Jessica Attra and has been in business 13 years. They sell auto supplies and farm equipment and have a full service small engine sales and service department. According to Attra, B&B is the only locallyowned auto supply store in Bastrop and has been voted first place in the Best of Bastrop County contest for the last seven years in a row. They pride themselves on the best customer service. Open seven days a week.

“All blinds are not created equal,” says Bastrop Blinds and Drapes owner Kathy Mursch. She will bring the store to you.

Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Bastrop 1832 Farmers Market 1302 Chestnut St., Bastrop (512) 360-4799 or (512) 360-4502 www.bastrop1832farmersmar ket.org Facebook: www.facebook.com/ pages/Bastrop-1832-FarmersMarket/118950738119102

Two farmers markets every week! Our Tuesday Market (2-6 p.m.) along with our Saturday Market (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.) offers two opportunities a week to buy the freshest local produce available. The Mar-

ket, located at 1302 Chestnut St., across from city hall and next to the convention center, is open year round. We offer a covered indoor market with a wide variety of Central Texas products. Our vendors are a group of enthusiastic farmers, ranchers and artisans who help create a wonderful atmosphere in which to shop for fresh, local foods and handcrafted items. Choose from locally grown vegetables and fruits, farm eggs, grass-fed beef, organic chicken and eggs, savory prepared foods, baked goods, plants, herbs, handcrafted jewelry, pottery, soaps, candles, rugs, mosaics, metal arts and other original items. Lone Star Card accepted for food purchases.

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Shopping Continued from page 60 Bastrop Blinds, Shutters & Drapes (512) 308-1164 www.BastropBlinds.com Kathy@BastropBlinds.com

Kathy Mursch wasn’t born in Bastrop, but she got here as fast as she could. “I woke up one morning and said, “Honey, let’s move to Bastrop.” Their home was on the market in less than a week. Kathy and her husband Doug are Circle D residents. “We were fortunate. We survived the fire – barely,” she says. Kathy wasn’t planning on starting a business. She thought her 14 years of experience in custom window coverings was part of her past, not her future. “Then came the fire” she said “and I realized that people could use my expertise in their rebuilding.” Kathy has worked in both the retail and the wholesale sides of the business. “I now know why there is such a variation in pricing in the market. Some blinds are made with cheaper components. They might look nice to begin with, but they will not be a quality blind you can count on to last.” First place winner of the Window Fashions Design Competition, Kathy is available to help you with all your window covering needs. Your first consultation is free!

Bastrop Fine Art Guild 1009 Main St., Bastrop (512) 321-8055 bastropfineartsguild.com

The Bastrop Fine Arts Guild was formed for the promotion and professional development of artists in the community and to encourage a public awareness and appreciation of fine art. The guild is very involved in the community and is currently developing a vibrant art education complex and gallery. The current gallery gives an opportunity to its members to showcase their work. The exhibitions include emerging to professional artists and their many diverse works and mediums. Each month the gallery features an artist with a solo exhibit or a group of selected work. The public is invited to attend the opening night reception that is held on the first Friday of the month from 6-8 p.m. A general meeting, open to the public, is held on the first Tuesday of every month at 6 p.m. for social time and 6:30 p.m. for meeting at 1020 Main Street, Heritage Hall. These meetings involve exciting, creative, and informative demonstrations/presentations and occasionally guild business is discussed. For more information or to join the guild, apply online or come by the gallery. The hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, also open on Sundays 11 - 2.

Each month the Bastrop Fine Arts Guild gallery features an artist with a solo exhibit or a group of selected work of artists.

Bastrop Florist, the oldest florist in Bastrop, provides floral arrangements for all occasions and has plush animals and balloon bouquets too.

Bastrop Florist 806 Chestnut St., Bastrop (512) 321-2424 (800) 725-0952 bastropflorist.net

Bastrop Florist, Bastrop’s oldest and most established florist, has been in operation since 1969. Many florists have come and gone in Bastrop, but one thing is for sure, Bastrop Florist will be here to serve you. The reputation and quality from Bastrop Florist have kept it a favorite with customers for years. In April 2000, Kay and the late Hubert Linenberger purchased the business and daughter Aya Linenberger-Lueders became general manager. “Trust the Experts” is the shop’s slogan. Bastrop Florist has been here to serve all Bastropian needs, especially weddings. No matter how big or small, Bastrop Florist is the wedding headquarters. They treat every order as if it were their own. Since its inception in 2004, Bastrop Florist has consistently been voted the No. 1 florist in the “Best of Bastrop County” awards. The current staff includes designers with more than 50 years combined floral design experience. Bastrop Florist provides floral arrangements for birthdays, anniversaries, to cheer up someone who is ill and any other occasion. Need something for a child? They carry an extensive line of plush animals and they also make balloon bouquets.

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Blue Donkey Gallery features the pottery of artist Lea Cundy, well known for featuring Texas wildflowers.

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Shopping Continued from page 62 Bastrop Florist isn’t just flowers and plants. They carry a line of Circle E candles, candy, gourmet foods and unique gifts. In need of printed invitations? They carry several lines of wedding, shower, quinceañeras, graduation and social event invitations. Announcements, printed napkins and accessories are also available. Bastrop Florist is a Teleflora shop, allowing worldwide wire services. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Bastrop Gardens 316 Old 71, Cedar Creek (512) 303-5672 bastropgardens.com

Twice as many Americans are practicing home gardening as did last year and most of those are looking for safe, healthy, organic ways to make the most of their efforts. And they are finding that organic gardening and landscaping can be done on a smaller budget than they supposed, yet yield spectacular results. At locally-owned Bastrop Gardens Organic Garden Center and pick-your-own farm, that success can be had at a reasonable cost, while actually getting experienced knowledge from a person that has directed native and water-wise landscapes all over Bastrop County. Deena Spellman, owner of Bastrop Gardens, has more than two decades of retail nursery experience in addition to her botany/biology degree and vo-tech degree in nursery management and landscaping – experience not found in bigbox stores. And in Bastrop Gardens’ 14th year serving Bastrop County, their employees know what works here and the organic amendments and locally-crafted soils to make the plants work best and treat your budget well. Now, Bastrop Gardens has added the Heir-

loom Tea Room (with free Wi-Fi) as another destination attraction. For an extraordinary garden experience, come visit Bastrop Gardens, where you will find inspirational demonstration gardens and the advice so necessary for a successful gardening experience. Bastrop Gardens, more than a garden center – it’s a destination for the entire family.

Bits & Pieces Thrift Store 4106 Hwy 71 East, Bastrop (512) 332-0028

Bits & Pieces Thrift Store, located at the entrance to Tahitian Village, offers area bargain hunters a unique shopping experience while supporting the range of vital services provided by the Family Crisis Center. What started out as a garage sale in 1992, thanks to generous donations from our community has grown into over 7,000 square feet of quality items. All donations are tax deductable and accepted during the store’s normal business hours of Monday - Saturday from 9am6pm. The store serves as a mechanism for recycling, and works to revitalize the local community through its voucher program. This program assists individuals in need. Last fiscal year, Bits & Pieces provided 562 vouchers which were redeemed for $22,855 in merchandise. The store is vital to the Center’s ability to provide a comprehensive support system for victims/ survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Donors and shoppers of Bits & Pieces can take pride that through their patronage that they are making a difference in the community and the lives of individuals impacted by the violence. By shopping at Bits & Pieces today, you are supporting the Family Crisis Center’s vision of a safe community built on equality without the existence of violence.

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Cripple Creek has a large selection of Circle E candles, beautiful jewelry, gourmet coffees, Pepper Springs dips, Texas wines and accessories and gourmet foods.

The Bridges Building on Main Street, owned by Barbara Bridges, is full of a variety of Buttercup Spa offers organic skincare products, facial and natural nail services. unique businesses.

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Shopping Continued from page 64 Blue Donkey Gallery 1022 Main St. (512) 304-5332 BlueDonkeyStudio.com

The Blue Donkey Gallery features the pottery of artist Lea Cundy. Lea’s best known around Texas for her ceramic pottery that features Texas wildflowers. Some of the plates, vases and other pieces feature only bluebonnets. Some are a mixture of bluebonnets and other wildflowers such as Mexican Hat and Indian Paintbrush. Poppies are also a featured flower on her pottery. Her impressionistic work is very beautiful. A pet rooster named Mooney has also found his place on her ceramic pottery as the rooster with the bad attitude. The work of Mark Cundy, Lea’s son, is also featured at the gallery. Mark specializes in fired art glass jewelry including necklaces and earrings. His recent foray into metal sculpting is represented with several pieces on display. You can find Lea’s work at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, the LBJ State Park, the Bluebonnet House in Chappel Hill and at the Hyatt Lost Pines, as well as other select gift stores around the state. The Blue Donkey Gallery is located at the R.A. Green Mercantile, located in the heart of the art district on Main Street in downtown Bastrop. Lea demonstrates how she paints several days during the week. Other artists are also represented at the gallery.

Ladd’s Coins of Bastrop Texas is more than just a coin shop! They buy and sell jewKarol Rice Photography offers prints made on canvass, water color paper and a variety of elry such as rings, necklaces, bracelets and specialty and photographic papers from a professional Epson printer. much more.

Book Basket 913 Main St., Bastrop (512) 332-0777 bastropbookbasket.com

The Book Basket, a full-service bookstore, offers new and used books. Carol Pennell, owner, opened the store in January 2004 and in 2009 relocated to the Propkoff building in historic downtown Bastrop. In operation just over nine years, the Book Basket strives to meet the reading needs of this small, yet diverse, city. The quaint charm of the Book Basket creates a comfortable atmosphere in which to shop more than 10,000 titles across a vast selection of genres, including romance and paranormal romance, standard fiction, sci-fi and fantasy, the classics for all literary buffs, current best sellers, children’s and young adult, non-fiction, current events, Texana, religious fiction and non-fiction as well as Bibles. Carol also specializes in showcasing the works of local authors and artisans. Along with the traditional used books, the Book Basket offers a variety of collectible and out-of-print books in a variety of genres. There is something for everyone at the Book Basket, including a book exchange

In Barbara’s Corner (in the Bridges Building on Main Street) offers classic styles of clothing. program giving customers “more bang for their ‘book’ or buck. Store hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekly and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday.

Bridges Building 920 Main Street, Bastrop (512) 332- 2887

The Bridges Building, owned by Barbara

Fast Forward Ink offers custom screen printing and embroidery and now offers a full line of promotional products. Bridges, is full of a variety of businesses. Piney Creek Candles is a great gift shop with a large selection homemade candles, greeting cards and gift ideas. At Fat Cat Antiques, you’ll find great treasures like old trunks, mirrors, dishes…and you’ll have to come by often, there’s always new items. Barba-

ra’s Corner will take you back in time with wonderful antiques at incredible prices. If you’re looking for something and don’t see it, ask Barbara, she probably has it. Barbara just opened a small resale boutique with

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Fast Forward Ink 1108 Chestnut Street Bastrop, TX (512) 321-5355 www.FastForwardInk.com

quality slightly used items…another place for great bargains. Oh Wow! Is exactly what you’re going to say after visiting Betsy Goggan’s shop and seeing all the wellness products and the incredible collection of Eastern and indigenous pieces she has to show you. Then in the back, conveniently located, are Sandra Brady, MA, LPC and Susan Farris, LCSW. Located in the heart of downtown Bastrop.

Buttercup Spa 944 Hwy. 71 East, STE 110, Bastrop (512) 705-0704 www.buttercup-spa.com

Buttercup Spa offers organic skincare products, facial and natural nail services. Our featured skincare line is Hylunia. Hylunia isn’t just organic, it’s clinical, Vegan, free of gluten, parabans, dye and fragrances. Hylunia products are designed to minimize irritation and free radical damage. Hylunia is for everyone, gentle enough for people with eczema, psoriasis, babies and cancer/ chemotherapy patient’s sensitive skin, but is also effective. An east meets west, holistic approach to skincare. Unlike other products Hylunia uses ingredients in sufficient quantity with the right combination to truly make an impact. Hylunia is used in our services and is available for purchase. Buttercup Spa provides a beautiful spa environment. Facials, manicures and pedicures are done using quality products. Facial sponges, files, buffers, pumus sponges are used and discarded. A disposable liner is used in the pedicure tubs then discarded. Buttercup Spa has the largest selection of brand name gel polishes and the fastest O.P.I. brand, LED curing lamp in the ATX area, curing in just 30 seconds. Waxing, Fake Bake airbrush tan and microdermabrasion also available. Buttercup is operated by Stephanie Keahey, licensed cosmetologist, with 12 years experience in the spa and salon industry and opened for business in Bastrop in 2011

Cripple Creek & Company 928 S. Main St., Bastrop (512) 332-2477 cripplecreekcompany.com

Cripple Creek is known as the friendliest shop in town. Owner Dee Dee Peddy is usually the first retail store open and the last one closed, open seven days a week. Peddy says she provides a fresh shopping experience, Texas style, with excellent customer service. Cripple Creek has a large selection of Circle E candles, beautiful jewelry, gourmet coffees, Pepper Springs dips, Texas wines and wine accessories, gourmet

The Living Room Christian Bookstore, celebrating seven years in Bastrop, has a great selection of Bibles, books, gifts, cards, apparel, and music for the whole family at superb prices.

Fast Forward Ink is now located at 1108 Chestnut St. (inside The Hairport Bldg) in downtown Bastrop. Fast Forward Ink has proudly serviced Bastrop County since 2004. We offer custom screen printing and embroidery and have recently expanded our business services to offer a full line of promotional products. Whether you are a business looking to brand your company or a parent looking for team spirit wear ~ Fast Forward Ink will help create a brand that is right for you. Our newly designed website allows you to browse and create your own idea or we can create something for you. Visit us or call today! Fast Forward Ink ~ Bastrop County Owned and Bastrop County Proud!

Karol Rice Photography 1009 Main St., Suite 5, Bastrop (512) 321-4800 imagesbykarol.com

Enter into Liberty Glenn and customers will know that they are somewhere special. Liberty Glenn is home to unique furnishing and accessories to turn one’s house into a home – a stylish home.

Liza Jane’s is not just a consignment store anymore; they also carry fashionable new clothing and accessories. foods from around Texas and a vault full of toys featuring Melissa & Doug. The shop also carries unique art from many local artists, including artist Cynthia Linden and Mike Henderson. Sign up for monthly e-mail alerts for upcoming wine tasting events or come by the store and Dee Dee will sign you up. Buy a

$10 Bastrop souvenir wine glass and receive five wine tastings free. They have layaway and gift certificates and take all major credit cards. Dee Dee says come by and try their coffee and dip of the day. Open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Karol Rice Photography is located in the Bastrop Fine Arts Guild Gallery at 1009 Main St. This year, the juror from the Blanton Museum of Art in Austin selected Karol’s work as Best Overall and Best Photograph in the juried competition for the Guild’s Annual Artful Afternoon Gala & Fine Art Auction. Karol’s fine art photography features her wildflower series (a part of the Hyatt Lost Pines Resort & Spa permanent collection), photographs of Bastrop’s historical structures, festivals and the surrounding countryside, as well as many other parts of Texas and the U.S. You no longer need to drive to Austin for fine art photographic printing. Save your time and gas! Her large format Epson 9900 printer allows Karol to make prints from 11x14 to 44 inches wide to as long as needed. Prints can be made on canvass, water color paper and a variety of specialty and photographic papers. Specializing in fine art photography and specialty printing, Karol Rice Photography is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. or by appointment. Please call to be sure Karol is in before coming by.

Ladd’s Coins 566 Hwy. 95 N, Bastrop (512) 321-4937

Ladd’s Coins of Bastrop Texas is more than just a coin shop! We buy and sell jewelry such as rings, necklaces, bracelets etc.

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Shopping Continued from page 68 We are also Bastrop Counties only licensed Gold/Silver buyer and we pay top dollar for all silver and gold items. Looking for rare coins? Have a rare coin or collection? Ken Ladd is also a collector and will gladly help you with any rare coin! Ladd Coins of Bastrop has been expanding their inventory for seven years now and we have over 4,000 coin and jewelry related items in stock! Selling silver or gold (bullion or scrap)? We will get you top dollar! Looking to buy? Our low overhead will beat the competition! Come see us Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. We are closed Saturday and Sundays. Special appointments by phone at (512) 321-4937 License # 0101056, Current member in ANA, CDN Jeweler Vigilance Committee, Leads Online. Ebay Top Rated Seller.

Liberty Glenn 1011 Main St., Bastrop (512) 581-0501 libertyglenn.com

Enter into Liberty Glenn and customers will know that they are somewhere special. Liberty Glenn is home to unique furnishing and accessories to turn one’s house into a home – a stylish home. Shoppers will find a gift collection that will please any lucky recipient. As one peruses the store’s displays, it’s comforting to know that while some items are definitely high end, there’s a gift for all price ranges. Even the less expensive items are still in good taste – the best of both worlds. Shoppers enjoy an array of home furnishings, pictures, lamps, accessories, furniture and collectibles, and a surprising

collection of names such as Herend, Jay Strongwater, Daum Crystal and an unmatched selection of Mark Roberts. Liberty Glenn is Bastrop’s most complete “tabletop” store and the only bridal registry store, with a wonderful selection of china, glassware and flatware. Liberty Glenn also carries aluminum serve-ware, baby gifts, western decor, silk florals, and high end collectibles. Custom made floral arrangements are a specialty of the house, just ask Debi Moore to create you the wreath or centerpiece of your dreams. Visitors will love wandering around the store several times because they can’t see it all the first time. Come in and see why everyone is talking about Liberty Glenn, “Bastrop’s Most Beautiful Store.” Open Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and by appointment.

Living Room Bookstore 301 Hwy. 71 W, Bastrop (512) 321-0909 Livingroombookstore.com

Piney Creek Candles has been hand-pouring candles in their Bastrop factory for 12 years. With over 30 scents to choose from, their candles come in jars, pillars, cubies and votives.

Celebrating seven years in Bastrop, Living Room Christian Bookstore continues to bring you a great selection of Bibles, books, gifts, cards, apparel, and music for the whole family at superb prices. We are conveniently located at Hwy 71 West and Loop 150. Family owned and operated, we offer personalized service you won’t find in Austin. Our most recent addition to our store is the Laser Engraver, which allows us to personalize a wide variety of gifts. We design and engrave at our location and you can watch the final product be created right in the store. We would love to help you make that wedding, birthday, corporate event, or

See SHOPPING, page 73 The “Sears Hometown Store – Bastrop” is the biggest little store in Bastrop. Their footprint is small and their atmosphere brings to mind the good ol’ days of personal service: Commitment to the lowest prices and outstanding customer service.

Milton’s Home of Fine Furnishings in Smithville is proud to have been recently named the Eileen Niswander, left, of Yegua Creek Farms hands over a fresh loaf of bread to her customer Bobby Galabeas at the River Valley Farmers Market. 2011 Business of the Year by the Smithville Chamber of Commerce

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Shopping Continued from page 70 any special occasion more memorable by adding your personal message on your gift. We still have the MyMedia BurnBar, which allows you can choose from a wide selection of media content and have it burned to CD, DVD, or MP3 immediately in the store! With the ability to sample newly released music first, you won’t be disappointed. We’d love to meet you and share an encouraging word with you! Gift certificates and layaway are available for your convenience. If you can’t make it to our store, visit us online at www.LivingRoomBookstore.com

Liza Jane 918 Main St., Bastrop (512) 321-2910

Owned and operated by Jill Steiner and Elizabeth Lanston, Liza Jane opened in the spring of 2006. The store has evolved into a unique combination of women’s consignment clothing, gifts, antiques and home decor. It is housed in a beautiful historic downtown building. Jill and Liz have striven to cultivate a memorable shopping experience. The physical attributes of the store’s interior, the presentation of the merchandise, the music and the aromas combine to create a pleasurable atmosphere. It is the consignment clothing facet of the enterprise that has grown both in concept and participation. The shop handles hundreds of items each week in a wide range of styles, sizes and age groups. For customers, the prospect of selling their clothing and simultaneously finding affordable “treasures” inspires a process that generates support and enthusiasm. Liza Jane persistently reinvents itself. The challenge to be innovative and diversified, and to respond to the suggestions of their customers, has resulted in the introduction of new retail clothing, jewelry, handbags, shoes and wonderful gift items. The owners genuinely appreciate all of those who have been advocates of the store and extend an invitation to all yet to discover the comforts and delights of Liza Jane. Hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 1-5 p.m.

Milton’s Home of Fine Furniture 206 NW Loop 230, Smithville (512) 360-3262 miltonsfurniture.com

Milton’s Home of Fine Furniture in Smithville originated in the fall of 1948 by the late Milton Mutschink. The business

Nestled in the historic R. A. Green Mercantile building on Main Street in downtown Bastrop is where you’ll find Skeeters Joys Gifts.

“OH WOW” has added collections of Eastern and indigenous pieces including Tibetan singing bowls, beautiful pieces of Native American jewelry and handmade baskets to the selections of fine items for sale. day, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

“OH WOW!” 920 Main St., Bastrop The Bridges Building (512) 718-0800

The Flower Shoppe carries a large selection The Texas Boot Company offers a selection of beautiful flowers and plants for that as big as Texas, with hometown service to special occasion or that special someone. ensure you and your family find your best fit. Since 1948, the business is still owned began as a service of radio sales and repairs and operated by Milton’s dedicated family on Smithville’s Main Street. When the first members and employees. They were named television station in Austin began operation, 2011 Business of the Year by the Smithville a full line of television sets was added, along Chamber of Commerce and also awarded with a repair department. first place in the Best of Bastrop County Shortly thereafter, a line of G.E. major Furniture category. The company strives to appliances was added, causing a need for maintain the same values as originated by additional floor space. A new building was Milton, such as customer satisfaction, honerected on Hwy 71, now known as Loop 230 esty, reliability, service and quality merchanin Smithville, where the present business is dise. Milton’s also offers delivery and financstill located. Several additions were made ing. through the years, extending floor space for The company recently added a new moda complete line of name brand furniture, ap- ern warehouse directly across the street from pliances, bedding and accessories. To date, the main store, for more in-stock merchanMilton’s Home of Fine Furniture still in- dise and convenience for customers. cludes a service department. Milton’s is open Monday through Fri-

Betsy Goggan is a native Texan who now calls Bastrop home. She has been a naturopathic practitioner for over 20 years, and has reopened her practice, Peaceful Solutions Natural Health, in downtown Bastrop. Her studies include the Pan American Institute in Nevis, West Indies with Dr. Charles McWilliams and The Isis Center of Holistic Health in Asheville, N.C. with Dr. Marika Von Viczay. Before moving to Bastrop, she had a successful Integrative Wellness and Health clinic in Lafayette, La. After working closely with clients and learning that people needed individualized supplementation, Betsy created her own line of vitamins, minerals and herbs from a combination of three superior companies and laboratories to bring her clients the most effective professional grade supplements possible, yet with a conservative approach. The most successful tool for her clients has been hair mineral analysis along with nutritional consultation which brings the most effective indicators for a personalized plan of care to optimize a client’s health. After losing her home in the Bastrop Fire, she became inspired to recreate the treasures that she had once collected and displayed in her own home and offer these in an extension of her original business. “OH WOW!” is a retail shop located in the Bridges Building along with Peaceful Solutions Natural Health. Collections of Eastern and Indigenous pieces including Tibetan Singing bowls, beautiful pieces of Native American Jewelry and handmade baskets

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Shopping Continued from page 73 have been added to her business. She is finding much joy in filling her space with long lost familiar pieces that she once held dear in her home. So come to the Bridges Building and visit Peaceful Solutions Natural Health and “Oh Wow!” and “enlighten up” with unique gifts for your awakening soul as well as a customized plan for your specific better health needs.

Piney Creek Candles 920 Main St., Bastrop (512) 321-SHOP (7467) pineycreekcandles.com

Piney Creek Candles has been handpouring candles in their Bastrop factory for 12 years. With over 30 scents to choose from, their candles come in jars, pillars, cubies and votives. They also carry their own line of eco-friendly soy jar candles and make their own potpourri. They can even custom pour candles for weddings, showers, anniversaries and other special occasions and also offer wholesale candle pricing for retailers and fundraising opportunities for organizations They carry a wide variety of gifts for the home; Jim Shore and Willow Tree angel collectibles, greeting cards, salsas, preserves, Department 56 Village and Snowbabies collectibles, Magnabilities jewelry, incense, fragrance oils, beautiful glass tart burners and more. You can find PCC in the Bridges Building located at 920 Main Street. The Bridges Building is a collection of shops including Fat Cat Antiques, Barbara’s Corner and Peaceful Solutions. Hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. To keep up to date on what’s happening with the store and Bastrop, join Piney Creek Candles on Facebook.

River Valley Farmers’ Market Two locations in Elgin and Smithville rivervalleyfarmersmarket.com

River Valley Farmers’ Market has furnished the residents of Bastrop County with fresh, locally grown vegetables and fruits for 27 years. They have two markets located in Elgin and Smithville. RVFM is a grower’s only market, which simply means that they grow what they sell. They have fresh vegetables, fruit, pecans, breads, baked goods, eggs, meats, plants, flowers, gourds, herbs, crafts and more. Visit them soon and discover how good fresh food really is. They always welcome new vendors to the market to help supply Bastrop County with the freshest local vegetables and fruits. Craft vendors are invited as well. For information on how to join the River Valley Farmers’ Mar-

Wild Thyme Herb Shop opened in August 2010 with the goal of providing natural, organic, safe and healthy herbal and food-based products and to become a primary natural and organic resource. ket, call president Eileen Niswander at (817) 929-2789 or check the website for an application and to view the rules and regulations. RVFM is a member of Go Texan, Texas Certified Farmers Markets Assoc., and the chambers of commerce for Bastrop, Elgin and Smithville. They are also recognized as a Certified Farmers Market by the Texas Department of Agriculture. Debit cards and Lone Star Cards accepted in Elgin. Check rivervalleyfarmersmarket. com for more information.

Sears 735 Old Austin Hwy, Bastrop (512) 321-9600 searshometownstores. com/0003425.html

The “Sears Hometown Store – Bastrop” is the biggest little store in Bastrop. While their footprint is small and their atmosphere brings to mind the good ol’ days of personal service, commitment to the lowest prices and outstanding customer service, Sears offers a full line of the top ten appliance brands, lawn power equipment, fitness equipment, mattressed, tools and much more. Sears offers free shipping on most purchases through its Store to Home program. They also offer the convenience of purchasing products online at home and pick up at the store with an upto-the-minute inventory management system for a hassle-free shopping experience. The knowledgeable staff is prepared to answer all questions and assist in finding the perfect appliance that will fit any family. Sears is also the home of Price Match Plus. If

you find a price lower than theirs of the same model, they will match the price and then give you 10 percent of the difference. Combining an outstanding experience with exceptional pricing, Sears is committed to Bastrop and to its’ customers. And the experience does not stop at the point of purchase. At the Bastrop Sears, they are committed to maintaining a relationship with their customers throughout the life of their purchases. Locally owned by Thomas and Joell Pausewang, Sears is the place where the customer’s experience is job one and expectations are not simply met, but exceeded. Hours are Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Skeeters Joys Gifts 1022 Main Street, Bastrop R.A. Green Mercantile (254) 715-1100

Nestled in the historic R. A. Green Mercantile building on Main Street in downtown Bastrop is where you’ll find Skeeters Joys Gifts. Valinda Jacobs seized upon the opportunity over a year ago to become a part of downtown Bastrop shopping. This became the fulfillment of her long time wish to own her own business. What can you find in Skeeters Joys? From the uniqueness of Himalayan salt lamps that purify and beautify your home to the charm of ringing wind chimes on your porch as the wind gently blows through them, and coasters of exceptional quality and timeless beauty. Plus you’ll see the soft glow of can-

Way2Diva has a wonderful selection of women’s accessories including earrings, necklaces, bracelets, purses, sunglasses, scarves and hats at very affordable prices. dlelight through ornate lanterns, perhaps the essence from scented oil warmers are more your thing? This and so much more is just inside the door. From dominoes to birdhouses, Valinda stocks a wide variety of fresh ideas. Store hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., open till 8 p.m. on first Fridays.

Skin Perfect Spa at Salon Lucero 106 La Paz Place (Hwy 71), Cedar Creek (512) 745-1126 www.skin-perfect-spa.com

Skin Perfect Spa is a beautiful, secluded spa, located inside of Salon Lucero on Highway 71, just west of Pope Bend Road. Owned and operated by licensed aesthetician, Mary Luke, Skin Perfect Spa has been open since November 2011. Mary has been in the skin care business for over 10 years. We’re proud to use Bioelements Professional Skin Care in every facial and have the full line available for purchase. Bioelements is made here in the U.S.A. and contains no artificial fragrances, colors or parabens. We offer something for everyone, focusing on products for anti-aging, acne, sunscreens, eyes and lips and so much more! Bioelements has been committed to making responsible choices since day one. The products are packaged in glass, which is not only eco-friendly, but

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Shopping Continued from page 76 preserves the effectiveness of the product. Unlike ordinary skincare, Bioelements is formulated to treat the skin, target complexion concerns and discourage skin aging. Skin Perfect Spa offers individualized facials, treating acne, hyperpigmentation, loss of elasticity and much more. We also offer full body waxing, eyelash and eyebrow tinting and eyelash extensions and enhancements. Skin Perfect Spa performs unique body treatments focusing on decreasing water retention, hydrating, smoothing skin and relaxation. Each body treatment includes a mini facial as well. We have also started to offer spa parties for birthdays, girl’s night out and any other reason to get together. We really look forward to meeting your skin care needs.

Ramos Restaurant on Chestnut Street serves authentic Tex-Mex food with a choice of six different sauces.

Over the years, Maxine’s has kept that perfect mix of old-fashioned Texas charm, consistent quality and southern hospitality that has made it the heartbeat of Main Street.

Sugar Shack 114 Loop 150 W, Bastrop (512) 321-3777 sugarshackbastrop.com

The Sugar Shack has been owned and operated by the Rogers family since 1995. Step inside and find a business packed with tasty confections of all kinds. Fudge, fudge, fudge. Bastrop’s headquarters for fresh fudge. The Sugar Shack carries wrapped and bulk candy, but the shop’s specialty is its hand-made selection, including fudges, popcorn balls, caramel mellow stick, chocolate pretzels and even a chocolate-dipped Twinkie. For those in town from February until Labor Day, pick up a fresh hand-dipped strawberry, just one or a dozen. The strawberries are a favorite among Bastrop residents, especially around Valentine’s Day. The Sugar Shack also sells gifts and greeting cards. Lampe Berger fragrance lamps, Yankee candles, Texas jellies, cookbooks and plush animals are among the shop’s gift selection. They’ve been named Bastrop County’s favorite gift shop for the last five years. Valentine’s Day isn’t the only holiday the Sugar Shack caters to. During Easter they help customers with Easter baskets. The Easter Bunny also visits the shop each year, as does Saint Nick during Christmas. Hours are Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m.

Texas Boot Company 733 Old Austin Hwy, Bastrop (512) 332-0865 texasbootcompany.com

The Texas Boot Company is as authentic and complete of a Western wear store as they come. Independently owned and

The guacamole burger at The Roadhouse is one of the favorites in a long line of tasty offerings.

Drusilla Rogers has the best “sweets” in town at Sugar Shack. operated, The Texas Boot Company offers a selection as big as Texas, with hometown service to ensure you and your family find your best fit. Stop by seven days a week to find your style and choose from thousands of boots. Texas Boot Company proudly carries Lucchese, Old Gringo, Ariat, Rios of Mercedes, Anderson Bean, Justin, Tony Lama, and Corral Boots made of leathers ranging from Kangaroo, Cayman, Stingray, Hippo, Elephant and Rattlesnake to name a few. Offering a full selection of mens, ladies, and children’s clothing, they will outfit you from head to toe. Stop by to see the wide selection of Stetson, Resistol, and Wrangler felt and straw hats and have your hat shaped to your liking. Come by and let them show you why The Texas Boot Company is known for classic comfort and legendary value. Store hours are Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday, noon to 6 p.m.

Way2Diva 1022 Main Street Bastrop (512) 704-3448 ecbj123@aol.com

Way2Dvia is owned by Ellee Johnson and Constance Jones, both natives of Bastrop and a mother/daughter team. Located at the R. A. Green Mercantile on Main Street in beautiful downtown Bastrop. The unique store offers a wide variety of women accessories. The shopping experience will include handbags, necklaces, bangles, bracelets, earrings, scarf’s and hats. The shop will also offer an array of exotic gifts boxes and bags. Men’s accessories will be coming soon. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Extended hours on 1st Fridays of each month, open until 8 p.m.

Wild Thyme Herb Shop 1022 Main St., Bastrop (512) 284-1152 www.wildthymeherbshop.com.

Wild Thyme Herb Shop opened in August

2010 with the goal of providing natural, organic, safe and healthy herbal and foodbased products and to become a primary natural and organic resource for Bastrop and the surrounding communities. The shop carries potted herbs, organic dried bulk herbs, tinctures, soothing salves, healing oils, locally crafted soaps, natural body care products, food-based supplements and vitamins. You’ll also find a wide selection of organic teas and tisanes, plus artisan and collector teapots, and unique tea gadgets and gifts. For your aromatherapy needs, there are over 40 natural essential oils plus incense and white sage ceremonial wands. You can also find holistic books, sprouting seeds, gift baskets, and hand-woven rugs at the shop. Nancy Perriello, herbalist and owner of WTHS, is a member of the American Herbalist Guild and publishes a weekly e-newsletter about native herbs and medicinal herbs. Use your QR Reader to join the email list! For herbal consultations, call Nancy or contact her by email at wildthymeherbshop@att.net Wild Thyme Herb Shop is located in the R.A. Green Mercantile in Bastrop.

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Dining Anita’s Mexican Restaurant 1004 Main St., Bastrop (512) 303-9693

Anita’s Mexican Restaurant has been a Main Street mainstay in downtown Bastrop since 1998. Now, in their bigger and better location, they can seat more than 100 people. . The menu features Mexican and TexMex items and the flour and corn tortillas are homemade. In fact, everything is made fresh as it is ordered. Roberta Borrego offers “fast and friendly” service for her customers and that can help busy workers who need a quick meal during the lunch hour. The restaurant is open from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

BASSANO Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria 141 Tahitian Drive, Bastrop (512) 321-3393

Bassano Italian Restaurant and Pizzeria welcomes everyone with a greeting at the door and a warm smile at the door. The aroma of their fresh homemade bread is “to die for.” Come try the lunch specials, served with salads, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily. From the time you sit down, ‘till the time you walk out the door, you will feel like part of their happy familia. Come and meet the familia, Visar Halilaj and his wife Megan, and co-owner and cousin Nick. Enjoy their homemade Italian food and New York style pizza made by Visar and Nick. The delicious seafood and house specialties also come with salads. Visar has been making Italian food for 10 years, and his Italian food is the best you will find in town. For now, bring your own wine and beer until they get their TABC license. They keep wine glasses, chilled beer mugs and corkscrews on hand just for you. So come and join the familia, Sunday- Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Billy’s Bar-B-Que 110 Texas 71 West, Bastrop (512) 321-6453

Billy’s Bar-B-Que recently celebrated 30 years in business right here in Bastrop. Ask Billy Reid, owner of Billy’s, what makes his barbecue so special and he’ll tell you he uses oak wood for that special flavor. Word of mouth has helped keep Billy’s BBQ a continual favorite in Bastrop County. They have won first place for Best BBQ in the Best of Bastrop County contest every year since the contest started eight years ago. The restaurant’s homemade sausage is a specialty, but the chopped beef sandwiches are really good, too. Just ask Robert Earl Keen or anyone who knows and enjoys great BBQ. You can buy it by the pound, by the dish or in a sandwich, along with all of Billy’s great sides. Billy’s also caters to par-

Back Door Café guests consider themselves lucky when dining on a day when the famous Jack Daniels chocolate pie is being served.

Enjoy homemade Italian food and New York-style pizza made by Visar and Nick at Basano. The delicious seafood and house specialties also come with salads. ties of up to 100 or more. Family owned and operated since 1982. Open every day except Tuesdays.

Back Door Cafe 117 Main St., Smithville (512) 237-3128

Opened in 1994, Back Door Cafe provides chef-quality food at down-home prices in historic downtown Smithville. With a changing menu, chef Rob Remlinger creates several meals du jour for variety and enjoyment. He also creates several desserts and, if one is lucky, they may be dining on a day that includes his famous Jack Daniels chocolate pie. Back Door Cafe also now has a selection of wines and local beers to tempt the palate. Hours are Tuesdays through Fridays for lunch and Thursday through Saturday for dinner. Back Door only accepts checks or cash for meals. The restaurant is closed each year from mid-June through September while the chef is away.

Baxters on Main 919 Main St., Bastrop (512) 321-3577

Baxters On Main, owned by Terri Knop, opened in May 2003. Locals have voted Baxters best overall restaurant eight years running in The Bastrop Advertiser’s annual reader’s poll, “Best of Bastrop County.” It has also won awards in the steakhouse, seafood, dessert, catering and waitress categories. Their crème brulee alone is worth coming to see them.

The menu at Anita’s features Mexican and Tex-Mex items and the flour and corn tortillas are homemade; everything is made fresh as it is ordered. Baxters features fine dining, reasonably priced, in a jazzy-casual environment. Menu items include house-cut certified Angus steaks, fresh seafood and poultry, as well as nightly specials. Lunch items include hand pressed burgers, sandwiches, soups, salads and other specialty entrees. They also offer an all-youcan-eat soup and salad bar Tuesday through Friday for lunch. Lunch specials are offered daily. Carryout orders are also available. Baxters has an outdoor patio open for both lunch and dinner and has a full service bar. They also offer an extensive wine list. Off-site catering is available and they also host rehearsal dinners, weddings and private parties. Baxters on Main is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. for lunch service and 5-9 p.m. for dinner service.

Cedars Mediterranean Grill 904 College St., Bastrop (512) 321-7808 cedarsmedgrill.com

Cedars restaurant location is a part of Bastrop history, occupying the space of one

of the oldest existing restaurants in Bastrop. A makeover in 2008 has helped to bring this restaurant up-to-date. Cedars has become a favorite of the Bastrop County area. They were voted No. 1 Italian Restaurant in Bastrop County the last five years and runner-up Overall Best Restaurant the last three years in the annual Best of Bastrop contest. Cedars Mediterranean Grill has traditional Italian and Mediterranean favorites, like their popular Death by Garlic Sandwich and California Burgers on the lunch menu. Their juicy rib-eye steak is the best value in town. They are one of the few restaurants that offer a true private space to seat up to 35 people. Their catering services are very popular, whether it’s for 20 or 500 people, and they offer a flexible catering menu based on the clients’ needs. Hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday. Closed Mondays. Located on Texas 71 westbound frontage road, just east of the Colorado Bridge. All major credit cards are accepted.

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Dining Continued from page 80 The Coffee Dog Roastery & Coffee House 49 Loop 150 W, Bastrop (512) 303-2244

Coffee Dog has been a popular breakfast and coffee shop in Bastrop for the last seven years. For the last 18 months, it has been in its beautiful new location at the Colorado Crossing Shopping Center across from Goodwill. Coffee Dog serves a wide variety of drinks, including daily special coffees, and hot and cold lattes and mochas, plus cold blended drinks, ice teas and real fruit smoothies. It has an in-house bakery and everything is made from scratch, including pastries, scones, muffins and kolaches, granola, plus breakfast sandwiches like bacon/ egg paninis and amazing breakfast tacos with special roasted jalapeño garlic sauce! Lunch choices include a variety of fresh unique salads and sandwiches. Coffee Dog is the only coffee roaster in the area, and it roasts fresh daily in small batches many different gourmet coffees from around the world, which are served at the coffee house and available for sale by the pound. Customers are able to watch the coffee roasting process at the coffee house. Free Wi-Fi and a work-friendly environment, a drive-thru window and merchandise/gifts for coffee lovers are also available. Customer gift boxes and baskets are made to order. Coffee Dog also caters meetings and parties. Coffee Dog is adding a Juice Bar in May and is also expanding its smoothie menu. “The Dog” is locally-owned by Guy and Kerri Roush, who moved to Bastrop from Austin 10 years ago. They love living here and also adore the Bastrop people.

Deli Depot 1006 Main St. #D Bastrop, TX 78602 (512) 321-0808

Deli Depot has been serving overstuffed sandwiches, soups, salads and home-style meals to Bastropians for more than a decade. Keeping up with the Deli tradition, they continue to be a locally-owned, family restaurant that caters to the hungry appetite. Under new ownership, Henry Sanchez and Joey Chapman run the daily operations. While the menu items will remain the same, there will be some great new options for your choosing. They offer a full breakfast menu and scrumptious daily lunch specials. The Deli uses only the finest ingredients and choice meats. They make their desserts, including the infamous chocolate cake, in their in-house bakery. Their chocolate cake recipe has been handed down through the Deli line

Locals have voted Baxters on Main the best overall restaurant eight years running in The Bastrop Advertiser’s annual reader’s poll, “Best of Bastrop County.”

Cedars Mediterranean Grill has traditional Italian and Mediterranean favorites, like their famous Death by Garlic Sandwich and California burgers on the lunch menu.

and it is quite the treat. Having a party or a get-together? Big or small, let Deli Depot take care of you, they offer a catering menu specific to your needs. So when you’re in the area and are on the hunt for a quick and delicious meal or even a party tray, come on in and enjoy the friendliest, down home service that Bastrop has to offer. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

reer in the convenience store business, and the rest is history! Therefore, they are proud to name their new restaurant concept ‘44 Grille’ in honor of J. Garland Warren. 44 GRILLE is SAC-N-PAC’s new and exciting kitchen offering breakfast tacos, pizza, burgers and sandwiches, along with daily plate lunch specials in some locations. Our tacos are served on our tortillas made fresh daily in our own Tortilla Factories. We retail these tortillas to the public at many of our convenience store locations. For KFC, hours are Monday through Sunday, 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. For Sac-N-Pac, hours are Monday through Thursday, 5 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 5 a.m. to midnight; and Sunday, 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. – something wrong with hours

Grace Miller/“Gracies” 706 Pine St., Bastrop (512) 332-2991 TheGraceMiller.com

The Grace Miller, “Gracies,” is in the downtown historical area near the intersection of Pine and Main streets and is a quiet setting with an outdoor dining area called Gracie’s Back Yard Beer and Wine Garden, where patrons can dine and watch live music on Friday and Saturday nights. Gracie’s is owned and operated by Brenda Bush and has been open six years. Bush prepares all of her dishes from scratch and menu items include shrimp scampi, sandwiches, salads, burgers and so much more. Gracie’s is known for having the best chicken fried steak in the county, voted several years in a row in the Best of Bastrop contest. Gracie’s has full service catering, too, where she has been voted one of the best caterers for several years now. Hours are Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

KFC/SAC-N-PAC 901 Hwy. 95, BASTROP (512) 308-0656

Kentucky Fried Chicken is back in Bastrop and proud to be a part of the community. In their first year, they were voted

Kay’s Café 1289 Hwy 71 East Halfway between Bastrop and Smithville (512) 237-5297 (KAYS) Billy’s Pit Bar-B-Que recently celebrated 30 years in business right here in Bastrop. 1st place in the Best of Bastrop County contest for best chicken. Sac-N-Pac also has brought the KFC concept to its food offerings with locations in Elgin, Buda, Kyle and the newest location Bastrop. To add a little Sac-N-Pac history to this article, they would like to include the sentimental significance the number “44” to the Warren Family and all SAC-N-PAC employees. J. Garland Warren, the founder, played in the Canadian Football League for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Wearing the number 44, Garland helped his team win the CFL’s Grey Cup in 1958, ’59,’61 and ’62. Sadly, a knee injury ended Garland’s football career early, but this setback began his ca-

Kay’s Café offers hometown and homemade mouth-watering meals and desserts in a uniquely colorful retro-style diner. The permanent menu features fresh sandwiches, soup and salads. Kay also offers daily hot entrée specials, which may include pot roast, meatloaf, King Ranch casserole, chicken pot pie, lasagnas, broiled tilapia with avocado tomato relish and her famous chicken ‘n dumplings. Specials change daily, allowing her to take advantage of what is locally and seasonally available. Please call ahead to see what’s available or request a favorite. More than just a café, the facility is available for parties, meetings, get-togethers, deli and dessert trays, casseroles and meals

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Dining Continued from page 82 to-go, etc. With a background in catering service, Kay is also a full-service caterer – from sandwiches to formal dinners. Kay’s is a huge advocate for shopping local and for giving back to the community. She buys all her eggs, pecans and honey from local farmers and uses as many farmfresh, seasonal products as are available. In short, Kay’s believes in hand-mashed potatoes, local produce and products, fresh

ingredients, house sliced deli meats and cheeses, vegetarian and gluten free choices, brownies with at least three kinds of chocolate, homemade desserts, no-sugar added pies, real butter, meatloaf every Tuesday, hand-formed hamburgers (Thursdays through Saturdays), good ol’ comfort food, supporting the community and most of all, making people happy. Hours are Tuesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The café is also available for catering

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breakfast, lunch or dinner from sandwiches to formal affairs.

Larrie’s Smokehouse BBQ 810 Hwy 95 N Bastrop, TX 78602 (512) 332-0788

There’s nothing like good Texas BBQ. Larrie and Roxanne Washington are Bastrop natives, they own and operate Larrie’s Smokehouse BBQ. They’ve been in business since September of 2007 and it‘s located four miles north of Hwy 71 on Hwy. 95. The restaurant serves the traditional brisket, pork ribs, chicken and beef sausage. You can buy your meat by the pound or by the plate with sides. Sandwiches and loaded baked potatoes are also available. Roxanne makes the best desserts too. Open Monday – Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., dine in or carry out and catering is available.

Maxine’s on Main 905 Main St., Bastrop (512) 303-0919 maxinesonmain.com

Over the years, Maxine’s has kept that

perfect mix of old-fashioned Texas charm, consistent quality and southern hospitality that has made it the heartbeat of Main Street. Maxine’s was featured on the cover of Texas Monthly magazine in December 2011, as one of the 40 “Best Breakfast Places” and in 2008 “Best Small-Town Cafes.” Have a legendary Pecan Praline Griddle cake, mile high biscuit and gravy or the best eggs Benedict in town with homemade hollandaise sauce. Weekends are always busy, so be patient and enjoy a complimentary cup of coffee while you wait. A Maxine’s experience is well worth the wait. Friday and Saturday nights Maxine’s features live music beginning at 7 p.m., from local Texas artists. Every Friday night special is fried catfish, and Saturday is their famous chicken fried steak, hand breaded. Save room for dessert or ask for it to go, you won’t regret it. At the front door, you can’t miss their display case filled with homemade cakes and pies. Add a scoop of Bluebell ice cream and you’ll feel just like you’re back in Grandma’s kitchen. Hours are Sunday through Wednesday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Thursday 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

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Dining Continued from page 84 Murphy’s Steakhouse 204 Thomas, Winchester (979) 242-3433 eatatmurphys.com

Murphy’s Steakhouse is located in downtown Winchester at the crossroads of FM 448 and FM 153. Reservations are available and the menu can be viewed at their website at www.eatatmurphys.com. All credit cards, cash and surrounding area checks are accepted. The menu offers fresh, hand-cut steaks to order, pasta dishes, seafood and desserts. Their beautiful salad bar features fresh hand cut vegetables and salads and a pot of beans that are made daily. Ask your waitress about the beer and wine menu. The atmosphere is a friendly, historic environment that welcomes everyone from senior citizens to bikers. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Ramos #2 Mexican Restaurant 710 Chestnut St., Bastrop (512) 321-4003 RamosRestaurant.com

Ramos Mexican Restaurant, owned by brothers Amando and Fidel Garcia, opened in 2006. The restaurant serves authentic TexMex food with six different sauces. Menu items include enchiladas, burritos and chili rellenos. Monday through Friday, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., they offer daily specials starting at $4.95. They offer combination plates and are known for the best chili rellenos in town. They also offer a full bar specializing in margaritas.

Hours are Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., serving breakfast from 8 am to 2pm Saturday and Sunday.

Roadhouse 2804 Hwy. 21 East, Bastrop (512) 321-1803 www.RoadhouseBastrop.com

At Roadhouse Bastrop, the mission is to give every patron a satisfying, enjoyable experience by producing fresh and tasty, high-quality food combined with personal, friendly service; and for eight years, the Roadhouse has delivered! The restaurant is one of Texas Monthly’s Best Burgers (August 2009) with a menu loaded with great burgers, chicken sandwiches, huge salads and much more. Vegetarian selections include a Balsamic Vinaigrette Portabella Mushroom Sandwich and Black Bean Nachos, while the appetizers include fried dill pickle spears, chicken wings and homemade salsa and chili con queso. Try the Shiner Bock beer battered fried cod (fish and chips) every Friday with juicy, grilled steaks on the special board every day. Friday and Saturday evenings feature live music or just stop in for a delicious homemade dessert, like apple pie or banana pudding, or a hand-made shake that starts with Blue Bell Homemade Vanilla and ends with your choice of homemade flavors and toppings. These burgers have been voted as the Best Burger in Bastrop for the past eight years. Hours are Sunday through Thursday, 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Larrie’s Smokehouse BBQ, on Texas 95 near FM 1441, has delicious brisket, sausage and chicken.

Having a party or a get-together? Big or small, let Deli Depot take care of you, they offer a catering menu specific to your needs.

Gracie’s is known for having the best chicken-fried steak in the county, voted several years in a row in the Best of Bastrop contest.

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“When the well’s dry, we know the worth of water.” – Benjamin Franklin Conserve.

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(512) 303-3943 415 Old Austin Hwy. P.O. Drawer P, Bastrop, TX 78602 www.aquawsc.com

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LODGING Best Western Bastrop Pines Inn 107 Hunters Crossing Blvd, Bastrop (512) 321-0900 bwbastrop.com

This hotel is conveniently located in the heart of Bastrop with easy access to area businesses and local attractions. The Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is just 20 minutes away. Guests will appreciate the variety of nearby dining and shopping options, all within walking distance of the hotel. Guests are greeted every morning with a complimentary full hot breakfast. A manager’s reception takes place every Monday through Thursday evenings where guests can enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres, beer, wine and soda. The hotel includes 1,000 square feet of creative and unique meeting space. There are facilities and services to make everyone a superstar with their colleagues and clients. The facility offers “A list” professional caterers with exquisite menu options to meet all needs. Overhead projector and audio visual equipment is available. Whether it’s a mini conference, training meeting, sales presentation or a myriad of other business reasons to meet at this hotel, they are motivated to make you successful because that is what makes them successful. Guest rooms are well appointed and feature free high-speed Internet access, wireless or wired. A 32-inch flat screen high-definition television, iron and ironing board, coffee maker, hair dryer, mi-

crowave and refrigerator, two telephones with speaker phone and free local calls are all part of the package. There is a first-class business center, an outdoor pool and hot tub, guest laundry and the snack shop is sure to keep your favorite snack on hand.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites 491 Agnes St., Bastrop (512) 321-1900 or (800) HOLIDAY holidayinnbastrop.com

The Holiday Inn Express & Suites is conveniently located within walking distance of many restaurants and retail establishments. They offer a variety of room types for business and leisure travel. The three-story, recently-remodeled building, houses 56 rooms, of which 20 are suites. Room types range from standard double queen bedrooms to tworoom executive and Jacuzzi suites. An ADA-compliant room for each room type is also available. All rooms feature wired and wireless high speed Internet access, 32” LCD TVs with HBO and HD programming, free local calls, two 2-line speaker phones with voicemail, large work desk, radio alarm clock, iron and ironing board, hair dryer, coffee maker, microwave and refrigerator. The suites are larger rooms that have an additional seating and dining area, sofa sleepers and convenience items to make you feel at home. Some of the hotel’s amenities include a complimentary full, hot breakfast with

Escape to infinite comfort at Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa. You’ll enjoy the Crooked River waterpark with waterslide, the world-class Spa Django, an 18-hole Arthur Hills-designed golf course, horseback riding, river rafting, kayaking, zipline, Wild Hare Youth Spa, Camp Hyatt for kids, nightly s’mores roast, dining from casual pool-side fare to fine cuisine and much more.

a daily rotating menu. A large outdoor area hidden behind a tall privacy fence features a large pool, heated spa and beautiful pergola to relax under. A convenient business center, fitness center, guest laundry and convenience shop are sure to cater to your needs during your stay. Free wireless Internet is available throughout all guest rooms and public areas of the hotel.

Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa 575 Hyatt Lost Pines Road, Cedar Creek (512) 308- 1234 (800) 55-HYATT visitlostpines.com

Escape to infinite comfort at Hyatt Re-

See LODGING, page 90

At Best Western, guests are greeted every morning with a complimentary full hot breakfast. A manager’s reception takes place every Monday through Thursday evenings where guests can enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres, beer, wine and soda.

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LODGING Continued from page 90 gency Lost Pines Resort and Spa. Bastrop’s close neighbor, this 491-room resort is a luxurious wilderness escape. The 405acre natural setting is adjacent to the 1,100-acre McKinney Roughs Nature Park and offers a secluded retreat that’s close to home. The resort pays homage to the music that has made this part of Texas famous as well as to local heritage and culture. Artwork throughout the resort unfolds stories about Texas musicians, Texas history and Bastrop County. And Shellers Barrelhouse Bar hosts live music each week. You’ll enjoy the Crooked River waterpark with waterslide, the world-class Spa Django, an 18-hole Arthur Hills-designed golf course, horseback riding, river rafting, kayaking, zipline, Wild Hare Youth Spa, Camp Hyatt for kids, nightly s’mores roast, dining from casual pool-side fare to fine cuisine and much more. The resort is home to live animal mascots—two percheron draft horses (Julius and Caesar), and two Texas longhorn steers (T-Bone and Ribeye) and Hoss, a giant Newfoundland puppy, an enormous ball of fur who spreads joy wherever he wanders. Family Olympics, horseshoes, disk golf, bicycle rides, hiking, movies under the stars, and so much more await.

The Oaks RV Park 753 Union Chapel Road Cedar Creek, TX 78612 (512) 200-4994 www.theoaksrvpark.com

Tucked away on 15 shady acres of oak trees, the Oaks RV Park is one of the new-

est parks in the Bastrop area. Conveniently located along Highway 71 between Austin and Bastrop, you’ll have an easy drive to all the local attractions, including the Colorado River, McKinney Roughs Nature Park, Hyatt Lost Pines Resort, Spa and Golf Course, and the new Circuit of Americas Racetrack in Elroy. The Oaks RV Park offers 50 full hookup sites with 50/30/20 amp service. All sites are “deep and wide” and many include concrete pads and/or patios. During your stay at The Oaks, enjoy the community garden and nature trails, a game of horseshoes, or just relax under the shady oak trees. Other amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi service throughout the park, a laundry and community room, as well as a beautiful new bath house with four private, full-service rooms. Larry and Jami Haney, the friendly, on-site owners, treat each of their guests as family, and are known to drop off surprise packages at your RV. Stay at The Oaks for a day, a week, or a month – you’ll want to come back again and again. We have a place for you and look forward to welcoming you to The Oaks RV Park!

tion center, it is walkable to all of historic downtown’s charms and the Riverwalk. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places and as a Bastrop Historical Landmark, the inn welcomes visitors for one night in a sumptuous getaway suite or a whole crowd for reunions, retreats, conferences or weddings, large and small. All rooms feature private baths, new fixtures, antique furnishings with some fireplaces or separate sitting

rooms in addition to all the amenities a vacationer or business traveler needs: coffeemakers, TV/VCR, queen or kingsized beds with featherbeds, ceiling fans, armoire and reading and writing areas. A signature breakfast, such as pecan waffles for which innkeeper Bill Pletsch is famous, is served at guests’ discretion. Rates range from $109-$139 for guest suites and from $550 for whole house rental.

Pecan Street Inn 1010 Pecan St., Bastrop (512) 321-3315 pecanstreetinn.com

The Pecan Street Inn’s reviews have consistently earned it the No. 1 Bed & Breakfast on TripAdvisor.com, and BedandBreakfast.com as well as No. 1 in The Bastrop Advertiser’s annual Best of Bastrop County contest. Additionally, as the closest lodging to the new conven-

The Lodge at Lost Pines Apartments, Bastrop’s finest gated apartment home community offers great specials on 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments

Besides being the closest lodging to the new convention center, guests staying at Pecan Street Inn can also walk to all of Bastrop’s historic downtown’s locations and the River- Tucked away on 15 shady acres of oak trees, the Oak RV Park is one of Bastrop’s newest parks offering 50 hookup sites walk.

The Bastropian 2012-13

CHURCH DIRECTORY African Methodist Episcopal Paul Quinn A.M.E. Church, 1108 Walnut, Bastrop. (512) 303-9033 Union Chapel A.M.E. Church, 308 W. Texas 21. Bastrop. 308-9815 St. Paul A.M.E. Church, 310 Lee St., Smithville. (512) 237-3456

Assembly of God

First Assembly of God, 609 Pecan St., Bastrop. (512) 303-5442 Taylorsville Assembly of God, Red Rock community. 398-2404

Baptist

Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, 147 E. Clearview Cemetery Rd., Hills Prairie. (512) 321-4840 Bastrop Chapel Primitive Baptist 1905 Hill Street Bastrop, TX 78602 (512) 773-0918 Bateman Baptist Church, 2691 FM 20, Bateman-Red Rock. 601-3240 Bethlehem Baptist Church, 2020 Wilson St., Bastrop. (512) 321-7751 Calvary Baptist Church, Loop 150 East across from Bastrop S tate Park, Bastrop. (512) 303-1697 Cedar Valley Baptist Church, FM 969 and FM 1704.

(512) 303-4141 Colorado Baptist Church, Old Lake Rd., Smithville. Cornerstone Baptist Church, 311 N. Texas 95, Elgin. (512) 281-4280 Dorcas Chapel Primitive Baptist Church, 1810 Hill St., Bastrop. (512) 332-0136 Faith Baptist Church, 2007 N. Main St., Bastrop. 308-0898 Faith Baptist Church, 306 Webb Street, Smithville. (512) 237-2824 First Baptist Church of Bastrop, 1201 Water St., Bastrop. (512) 321-3384 or 303-3221 First Baptist Church, 109 N. Ave. B, Elgin. (512) 281-2838 First Baptist Church, McDade. 273-2896 First Baptist Church, 300 Hudgins, Smithville. (512) 237-2176 Friendship Bible Baptist Church, 1903 N. Pecan St. Bastrop. (512) 321-9040 Grace Baptist Church, FM 20 & FM 812, Red Rock. (512) 303-3891 Hills Prairie Baptist Church, Texas 304, 7 miles south of Bastrop. (512) 321-3412 Hopewell Primitive Baptist Church, Texas 21 W. (512) 321-3118 Iglesia Bautista Emanuel, 2007 N. Main, Bastrop. Knobbs Springs Baptist Church, McDade. 273-2743

See CHURCH, page 92

The Bastropian 2012-13

CHURCH DIRECTORY Continued from page 91 Living Stones Church of Bastrop 125 Lower Red Rock Road, Bastrop Live Oak Grove Baptist Church, 509 Walker, Smithville. Lone Star Missionary Baptist Church, 268 Shiloh Rd., Bastrop. (512) 321-4116 Macedonia First Baptist Church, 811 MLK Dr., Bastrop. (512) 303-3727 Mason Lone Oak Baptist, Cedar Creek. Mt. Carmel Baptist, 400 Beaukiss Ln., Elgin. Mt. Moriah Baptist Church, 701 S. Main St., Elgin. 281-5080 Mt. Olive Baptist Church, Callahan Road, Bastrop. (512) 321-2953 Mt. Pilgrim Baptist Church, 409 Walker, Smithville. Mt. Pleasant Primitive Baptist Church, 468 McDonald Ln. W., Cedar Creek. (512) 332-0132 Mt. Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church, 644 Texas 21 W., Cedar Creek. (512) 303-9532 Mt. Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church, 394 Texas 95 S., Elgin. Mt. Rose Missionary Baptist Church, Emile Street, Bastrop. (512) 321-2873 Mt. Woodrow Missionary Baptist Church, 466 Walter Hoffman Rd., Bastrop. (512) 321-4205 New Faith Missionary Baptist Church, 1308 Walnut St., Bastrop. (512) 321-4340 New Flower Hill Baptist Church, 300 Gentry St., Smithville. (512) 237-5093 Lost Pines Baptist Church, Texas 21 at FM 1441, Bastrop. (512) 332-0521 Pleasant Bethany Baptist, 217 Church St., Elgin. Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, 1838 Sayers, Bastrop. (512) 321-2661 Primera Iglesia Bautista, 700 E. 10th St., Elgin. 281-3380 Primera Baptist Church, 301 Paul C. Bell Sq., Bastrop. (512) 303-2082 Ridgeway Baptist Church, 159 Ridgeway Cemetery Rd., Paige. (512) 253-6412 River Valley Christian Fellowship, 1602 Hill St., Bastrop. 308-2570 Rosanky Baptist Church, FM 535, east of Texas 304, Rosanky. (512) 360-3968 Shiloh Baptist Church, Littig. 285-3980 Shiloh Primitive Baptist Church, 385 FM 20, Bastrop. (512) 303-7914 St. Paul Baptist Church, FM 1100, Kimbro, 6 miles from Elgin. Sweet Hill Missionary Baptist Church, Upton. Timberline Fellowship Church, Texas 21, east of Bastrop. 308-1313 Trinity Baptist Church, 705 Loop 230 W., Smithville. (512) 237-4532 Union Hill Baptist Church, 1430 FM 969, Bastrop. 581-3709 Wyldwood Baptist Church, Texas 71 near FM 1209, west of Bastrop. (512) 303-3443 Zion Chapel Baptist Church, 301 B.J. Mayes. Bastrop. (512) 321-0342

Buddhist

SGI-USA, 141 Forest Ln., Bastrop. (512) 303-4382

Catholic

Ascension Catholic Church, 802 Pine St., Bastrop. (512) 321-3552 Sacred Heart Catholic Church, FM 535, Rockne. (512) 321-7991 Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 302 W. 11th, Elgin. 281-3536 San Juan Diego Catholic Church, 216 Stony Point Dr. in Stony Point Sub. (512) 247-2476 St. Paul’s Catholic Church, 204 Mills, Smithville. (512) 237-3299

ChristianDisciples of Christ

Apostolic Christian Church, 1025 Texas 71 W., Bastrop. (512) 321-2345 Bastrop Christian Church, 1106 Church St., Bastrop. (512) 321-6436 Central Christian Church, West 1st St. & Ave. B, Elgin. 285-4523 First Christian Church-Disciples of Christ, 4th & Burleson, Smithville. (512) 237-4522 First Christian Church, 101 Robin St., Elgin. 285-2629

Church of Christ

Bastrop Church of Christ, 287 FM 20, Bastrop. (512) 303-4597 Lost Pines Church of Christ, 1106 College St., Bastrop. (512) 303-9997 or 985-5176 McDade Church of Christ, 211 E. El Paso St., McDade. (512) 661-8065 Elgin Church of Christ, 703 N. Ave. C, Elgin. 281-3377 Smithville Church of Christ, 1416 E. Whitehead St., Smithville. (512) 360-2550 St. Peter’s United Church of Christ, Coupland. Upton Church of Christ, Young Schoolhouse Rd., Upton.

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 1635 Tahitian Village Dr., Bastrop. (512) 321-4142

Episcopal

Calvary Episcopal Church, 603 Spring St., Bastrop. (512) 303-6615

Jehovah’s Witness

Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Hwy 2104, Smithville. (512) 237-4494

Lutheran

Bethlehem Lutheran Church, ELCA, Rt. 3, Lund Community. 285-5036 Faith Lutheran Church, McDade. 273-2623 Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Texas 71 at Eskew, Bastrop. (512) 303-3980 Grace Lutheran Church, Missouri Synod, 308 Byrne, Smithville. (512) 237-2108 Grace Lutheran Church, Missouri Synod, U.S. 290 & 11th St., Elgin. 281-3367 New Hope Lutheran (LCMC) 557 Old Highway 20 (Downtown McDade) McDade Sunday School at 9:30 a.m. Church Service at 10:30 a.m. New Sweden Lutheran Church,

12809 New Sweden Church Rd., Elgin. 281-0056 St. John’s Lutheran Church, FM 2104, Paige. 253-6396 St. Michael’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Winchester. (979) 242-3444 St. Peter’s Lutheran Church ELCA, 401 East 8th, Elgin. 285-4844 Trinity Lutheran Church AFLC, 117 Loop 150 W. (512) 321-9922 Vineyard of Christ Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, meeting at 1703 FM 535 Rosanky. (361) 865-9040

Mennonite

Grace Mennonite Fellowship, 2 miles west of FM 20 at 858 Shiloh Rd. (512) 321-3895 or 308-0889

Methodist

Bethel United Methodist, 300 Central Ave., Elgin. Cedar Creek United Methodist Church, Texas 21 at Pearce Lane, Cedar Creek. (512) 303-1393 First United Methodist, 1201 Main St., Bastrop. (512) 321-2201, 303-5072 or 332-2333 First United Methodist, 216 W. 3rd, Elgin. 285-4503 First United Methodist, 400 Olive, Smithville. (512) 237-3325 Harts Chapel United Methodist, 206 Prima St., Smithville. (512) 237-5265 Paige United Methodist, 110 N. Main St.

Methodist (Independent) Walnut Creek Ministries, 185 Walnut Creek Rd., Cedar Creek. (512) 321-1775

Ministerial Alliance

Bastrop Ministerial Alliance, (512) 321-2201 or 303-5072 Elgin Ministerial Alliance, 281-2838 Smithville Ministerial Alliance, (512) 237-3325

Non-Denominational

Angels Over America Freedom Foundation, (512) 237-3678 Bastrop Bible Church, 602 Pecan St., Bastrop. (512) 303-5681 Bastrop Christian Outreach Center, 1096 Texas 71 W., (512) 303-5683 Bastrop Church of New Beginnings, 256 Green Valley Dr., Bastrop. (512) 321-7729 Blessed Hope Church of God in Christ, 104 Zimmerman Ave., Bastrop. (512) 303-3100 Breath of Life Deliverance, 386 McDonald Ln., Cedar Creek. Calvary Chapel, Cedar Creek Middle School, 125 Voss Pkwy. (512) 547-2589 Celebration Community Church, 111 Longhorn St., off Texas 95 between Bastrop & Elgin. (512) 332-2537 Centro Cristiano Alpha y Omega, 407 Wilkes, Smithville. Cristo Viene-Elgin Church, 295 FM 619, McDade. 273-1013 End Tyme Fellowship, 1008 Water St. (Senior Citizens Center), Bastrop. (512) 332-0221 Elgin Church of God in Christ, 104 Washington. Elgin. 281-0171 Elgin Evangelical Free Church, 1209 N. Ave C., Elgin. 285-4536 Eternity Road Ministries, 491 Agnes St. (Holiday Inn Express Conference Room), Bastrop. (512) 689-7006 Family Worship Center, FM 1704, six miles south of Elgin. 281-5146

Glory Temple Church, 203 Central Ave., Elgin. 281-2695 God’s Country Church, 104 N. Lockhart, Paige. (512) 253-0242 God’s Grace and Mercy, P.O. Box 875, Bastrop. (512) 848-4368 The Gospel Lighthouse, 505 Ross, Smithville. Grace Bible Fellowship, 133 Flahive Dr., Bastrop. (512) 303-5222 Holy Temple, 631 Madison. Elgin. 285-4550 House of Prayer Church & Farm, 186 Stewart Ln., Paige. 253-6157 Inglesia-Sermon-de-la Montana, 301 Ave. C, Elgin. Jesus. Still the One Revival Ministries, 1203 Hill St., Bastrop. (512) 303-9402 Living Faith Worship Center, 175 Texas 95 S., Elgin. (512) 303-2078 Lost Pines Bible Church, 115-A Ponderosa, Bastrop. (512) 237-3733 Ministerio de la Tierra Prometida, 215 Church St., Elgin. 281-4943 New Covenant Church, Texas 21 W. 0.2 miles off Texas 71, Bastrop. (512) 303-0431 New Life in Christ Church, 1176 Texas 21 W., Cedar Creek. (512) 303-6612 New Testament Deliverance Ministry, Bastrop. 740-4962 Oakwood Evangelistic Center, 182 Old Lexington Rd., Elgin. 281-0204 Outreach Mission United Church of God in Christ, 11819 Edward St., Littig. 281-3356 Penning for Jesus Cowboy Church, Inc., Located off FM 20, approx. 5.8 miles. (512) 940-4568 Red Rock Christian Church, 117 South Front St., Red Rock. (512) 321-5545 Trinity Zion Ministries for the Community, 151 Shiloh Rd., Bastrop. (512) 308-9344 Word of Life Church, 4 miles east on Texas 21, Bastrop. (512) 659-8831 Yegua Creek Evangelistic Free Church, CR 466, Elgin. 285-3844 Young’s School House Church, Texas 304 S. to CR 281 (Farris Ln.), 1.3 miles to church.

Pentecostal

Iglesia Impacto de Dios, Lost Pines Elementary Cafeteria, Bastrop. (512) 573-6390 New Covenant Pentecostal, Lexington Rd. & Ave. F, Elgin. 281-4229 Inspiration Pentecostal Church 1602 Linda Street Bastrop, Texas 78602 Minister George Sampleton, Pastor Minister Earnestine Sampleton, Co-Pastor Pentecostes Templo Samria, 423 S. Ave. A, Elgin. 281-4376 The Pentecostals of Bastrop UPC, 261 Hwy. 20, Bastrop. (512) 303-2660

Presbyterian

Bastrop Presbyterian Fellowship, at Historic Chapel at Cedar Creek Methodist Church, FM 535, Cedar Creek (512) 378-3976 First Presbyterian Church, 303 N. Ave. C, Elgin. 281-2395 First Presbyterian Church, 300 Burleson, Smithville. (512) 360-5231

Seventh Day Adventist

Seventh Day Adventist Church, 109 Alum Creek, Bastrop. (512) 332-2220 Emmanuel Seventh Day Adventist Church, Texas 95 south of Elgin. 281-3738 Seventh Day Adventist, 225 Lexington Rd., Elgin. 272-8757

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The Bastropian 2012-13

ADVERTISER DIRECTORY All addresses are Bastrop unless noted. Accounting and Bookkeeping

Bastrop Executive Assistance, (512) 284-0220, p. 85 Business Research & Bookkeeping, (512) 321-4140, p. 37 Go Figure, 103 Childers Drive, (512) 321-4400, www.gofiguretaxbooks.com, p. 67

Acupuncture

Jennifer Gwin Evergreen Acupuncture, 1011 Alley A, (512) 658-0282, www.bastro pacupuncture.com, p. 21

Administrative Services

Bastrop Executive Assistance, (512) 284-0220, http://www.bastropexecutive assistance.com/ p. 85

Appliances

Milton’s Home of Fine Furniture & Appliances, 206 NW Loop 230, Smithville, (512) 360-3262, www.miltonsfurniture. com, p. 7 Sears, 735 Old Austin Hwy, Suite B, (512) 321-9600, p. 7

Art Galleries

Art Connections Gallery, 705 F Pine Street, (512) 626-4177, www.artconnection sgallerybastrop.com, p.13 Art Makers Collective, 1022 Main St, (512) 308-0988, p.75 Bastrop Fine Arts Guild, 1009 Main St Suite 7, (512) 321-8055, www.bastrop fineartsguild.com, p.35 Blue Donkey Gallery, 1022 Main St, (512) 304-5332 bluedonkeystudio.com, p.75

Assisted Living and Eldercare

WCU Services, (512) 303-6533, www. wcuservices.com, p. 71

Argent Court, 508 Old Austin Hwy, (512) 321-9500, www.argentcourt.com, p. 67 Towers Nursing Home, 907 Garwood St, Smithville, (512) 237-4606, www.tower snursing.com, p. 63

Alterations

Attorneys

Air Conditioning and Heating

Images Alterations, 75 Loop 150 W Suite C, (512) 321-3330, p. 41

Amusement and Entertainment

Bastrop Opera House, 711 Spring St, (512) 321-6283, www.bastropoperahouse. com, p. 31 Gaslight Baker Theatre, 216 S. Main St, Lockhart, (512) 376-5653, www.gaslight bakertheatre.org, p. 41 Lumberyard Music Hall, 1109 Main St, (512) 321-PLAY, p. 41 Schulman Theatres Lost Pines 8 Movies, 1600 Chestnut St, (512) 321-0123, p 84 VFW Post 2527, FM 20, (512) 321-2610, p. 13

Animal Control/Shelter

Bastrop County Animal Shelter, 589 Cool Water Dr, (512) 581-4080, www.pet ango.com/bastropanimalshelter, p. 63

Antique Dealers and Stores

Apothecary’s Hall, 805 Main St, (512) 321-3022, p. 74 Barbara’s Corners, 920 Main St (512) 332-2887, p. 77 Holly Hocks & Hand-Me-Down, 805 B Main St, (512) 321-3022, p. 74 The Magpie Trading & Co, 909 Chestnut St, (512) 914-1281or (210) 313-7057, p. 84

Apartments

The Lodge at Lost Pines Apartments, 3950 Texas 71 E, (512) 321-5320, www. bastroptexasapartments.com, p. 85

Tuck & Kizer, 906 Main St, (512) 3214944, p. 93

Automobile Paint & Body Repair, Parts, and Service

B & B Auto and Small Engine, 1101 Chestnut St, (512) 321-2122, p. 65 Barnard Tire & Wheel, 1501 Chestnut St, (512) 321-4506, p. 87 Bastrop Tire & Automotive, 1100 Texas 95, (512) 321-7669, www.bastroptire.com, p. 29 German Kraft Auto Repair, 300 Industrial Blvd, 512-321-2514, p. 25 L & M Automotive & Transmission, 2002 Chestnut St, Texas 21, (512) 321-6958, p. 65 Lonestar Collision, 2773 N. Main St, (512) 321-7827, www.lonestarcollisionbas trop.com, p. 17 Need for Speed, 815 Chestnut St, (512) 308-0200, p. 63

Banks and Credit Unions

Classic Bank, 493 Texas 71 W, (512) 308-1882, www.classicbank.com, p. 93 First National Bank, 489 Texas 71 W, 188 Texas 71 W, 1021 Main St, Bastrop, 118 Texas 21 W, Cedar Creek, 1312 US 290, Elgin, and 312 Main St, Smithville, (512) 3212561 or (512) 303-1003, www.fnbbastrop. com, p. 17 First State Bank, 208 Texas 71 W, (512) 332-0144 and 201 Main St, Smithville, (512) 237-3221, www.firststate-texas.com, p. 48 Frontier Bank of Texas, 1500 Chestnut St, Bastrop, (512) 303-500 and 1213 US 290, Elgin, (512) 281-1500, www.frontier bankoftexas.com, p. 4

Beauty, Nails and Skin Care Salons & Spa

A Perfect Image, 99 Loop 150 W, (512) 303-1488, p. 54 Alizé Premier Salon, 802 Spring St, (512) 581-3999, p. 25 Best Lil’ Hair House, 1005 Chestnut St, (512) 321-6694, www.bestlilhairhousein texas.com, p. 21 Buttercup Spa, 944 Hwy 71 E Suite 1101, (512) 705-0704, www.buttercup-spa.com, p. 27 Hyatt Spa Django, (512) 308-4789, www. lostpines.hyatt.com, p.49 Lasique Med Spa, 3110 Hwy 71 E Suite 101, (512) 304-0302, www.lasiquemedspa. com, p. 3 Ruby’s Kuts, 1001 Chestnut Suite D, (512) 321-3066, p. 31 Salon Lucero, 106 La Paz Place, Cedar Creek, (512) 985-5724 www.salon lucero. weebly.com, p. 72 Skin Perfect Spa, 106 La Paz Place, Cedar Creek, (512) 745-1126 www.skin-perfectspa.com, p. 72 Vitalogy Skincare, 441 Hwy 71 W, 512321-9400, www.VitalogySkincare.com, p. 48 Wild Thyme Herb Shop, Hippie’s Skincare, 1022 Main St, (512) 284-1152 www. wildthymeherbshop.com, p.75

Bed and Breakfasts

Pecan Street Inn, 1010 Pecan St, (512) 321-3315, www.pecanstreetinn.com, p. 85

Blinds and Draperies

Bastrop Blinds, 109 Painted Post, (512) 426-4730, www.lasiquemedspa.com p. 11

Books, New, Used and Rentals

Book Basket, 913 Main St, (512) 3320777, www.bastropbookbasket.com, p. 67 Living Room Bookstore, 301 Hwy 71 W Suite 100, (512) 321-0909, www.livingroom bookstore.com p. 29

Bowling

Schulman Theatres Lost Pines 8 Movies, 1600 Chestnut St, (512) 321-0123, p 84

Cancer Treatment Center

Lost Pines Center for Cancer Care, Lakeside Medical Campus, 3107 Hwy 71 E, (512) 303-5100, www.thecentersforcancercare. com, p. 99 Vitalogy Skincare, 441 Hwy 71 W, 512321-9400, www.VitalogySkincare.com, p. 48

Child Care

Wee Care Learning Center, 159 Settlement Drive, (512) 321-0933, www.bastrop weecare.com, p. 43

Chiropractic Care

Taylor Family Chiropractic, 909 Main

St, (512) 303-9995, www.taylorfamilychiro. com, p. 23

Churches

Bastrop Presbyterian Fellowship, 202 Hwy 71 E, (512) 581-8376, www.bastrop presby.org, p. 91 Calvary Baptist Church, 3100 Loop 150 E, (512) 303-1697, www.calvarybaptistbas trop.org, p. 91 Calvary Episcopal Church, 603 Spring St, 512-303-7515, www.calvaryepiscopalbastrop.org, p. 89 Cedar Creek United Methodist Church, 5630 FM 535, (512) 303-1393, www.cedar creekumc.org, p. 91 Cedar Valley Baptist Church, FM 969 at FM 1704, www.cedarvalleybc.org, p. 89 First Assembly of God Church Bastrop, 609 Pecan St, (512) 303-5442, www.bastrop first.com, p. 91 First Presbyterian Church, 300 Burleson St, Smithville, (512) 360-5231, www.fpc smithville.org, p. 91 First United Methodist Church Bastrop, 1201 Main St, (512) 321-2201, www.fumcbastrop.org, p. 89

Civic and Non-Profit Organizations

Bastrop Association for the Arts www. bastropafta.org, p. 37 Bastrop Chamber of Commerce, 927 Main St, (512) 303-0558, www.bastrop chamber.com, p. 17 Bastrop Downtown Business Alliance, (512) 321-3777, www.bastropdba.com, p. 50 Bastrop Economic Development Corp, 903 Main St, (512) 303-9700, www.bastrop edc.org, p. 52 Bastrop Homecoming and Rodeo, PO Box 215, www.bastrophomecomingrodeo. org, p. 31 Boys & Girls Club of Bastrop County, 603 Linden St Suite C, (512) 321-6676, p. 71 Greater Elgin Chamber of Commerce, 114 Central Ave, (512) 285-4515, www.el gintxchamber.com, p. 41 Go-Texan, (512) 947-8032 or (877) 99-GOTEX, p. 11 Juneteenth Celebration, PO Box 1015, (512) 629-2859, p. 37 Rotary Club of Bastrop County, (512) 332-9880, bastroprotary.com, p. 52 Smithville Area Chamber of Commerce, First Street at Main Street, Smithville, (512) 237-2313, www.smithvilletx.org, p. 35

Clothing and Accessories, New and Used

Barbara’s Resale, 920 Main St (512) 3322887, p. 77 Bits and Pieces, 4107 Texas 71 E, (512) 332-0028, p. 77

See DIRECTORY, page 95

The Bastropian 2012-13

ADVERTISER DIRECTORY Continued from page 94

Event Facilities

Texas Boot Company, 735 Old Austin Hwy, (512) 332-0865, www.texasbootcom pany.com, p. 99 Way 2 Diva, 1022 Main St, (512) 581-0091, p. 75

City of Bastrop Convention Center, 1408 Chestnut St., (512) 303-7305, www.cityof bastrop.org, p. 51 Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa, www.visitlostpines.com, p. 49 Lumberyard Music Hall, 1109 Main St, (512) 321-PLAY, www.bastropacademyof music.com, p. 41

Coffee Houses

Events

Liza Jane, 918 Main St, (512) 321-2910, p. 41

Coffee Dog Roastery & Coffee House, 49 Loop 150, Bastrop (512) 303-2244, www.cof feedoginc.com, p. 81 Rift Coffee, 913 Main St, (512) 332-0777, p. 67

A & A Construction, 715 Annika Way, (512) 674-1631, p. 19 Bridges Enterprises, 962 Hwy 71 E, (512) 922-2362, www.bridgesenterprisesinc.com p. 63 Dakota Painting, (512) 581-9060, dako tapainting.net, p. 27 Meyerson Custom Builders, PO Box 921, Smithville, (512) 237-3500, p. 65 TX Classic Homes, 117 Loop 150, Ste. 180, (512) 303-1942, texasclassicsusa.com, p. 59

Bastrop Chamber of Commerce, 927 Main St, (512) 303-0558, www.bastrop chamber.com, p. 17 Bastrop Downtown Business Alliance, (512) 321-3777, www.bastropdba.com, p. 50 Bastrop Homecoming and Rodeo, PO Box 215, www.bastrophomecomingrodeo. org, p. 31 Go-Texan, 910 Watterson Rd, (512) 9478032 or (877) 99-GOTEX, www.basconet. com/10355368_74488.html p. 11 The Greater Elgin Chamber of Commerce, 114 Central Ave, (512) 285-4515, www.elgintxchamber.com, p. 41 Juneteenth Celebration, PO Box 1015, (512) 629-2859, p. 37 Men Who Cook, (512) 332-9880, bastro protary.com, p. 52 Smithville Chamber of Commerce, 1st Street at Main St, Smithville, (512) 2372313, www.smithvilletx.org, p. 35

Convenience Stores

Farm Equipment and Supplies

Coin Dealers

Ladd’s Coins, 566 Hwy 95 N, (512) 3214937, p. 13

Construction/Remodeling

Sac N Pac KFC, 901 Hwy 95, (512) 3080656, p. 29

Dental Care

Robertson Dental Care, 1309 N Avenue C, Elgin (512) 281-4260, www.robertsondental care.com, p 19 The Dentists, 301 Hwy 71 W, Suite 200, (512) 321-4445, www.thedentists.us, p. 43

Dermatology Medical & Cosmetic

Lasique Med Spa, 3110 Hwy 71 E Suite 101, (512) 304-0302, www.lasiquemedspa. com, p. 3 Vitalogy Skincare, 441 Hwy 71 W, (512) 321-9400, www.VitalogySkincare.com, p. 48

Dry Cleaners

Comet Cleaners, 494 Agnes St, (512) 3214565, p. 31

Document Shredding

The Shred Guy, Smithville, (512) 7972630, www.theshredguy.net, p. 7

Embroidery Services

Fast Forward Ink, 108 Chestnut St., (512) 321-5355, fastforwardink.com, p. 74 Images Alterations, 75 Loop 150 W, Suite C, (512) 321-3330, p. 41

Kleiber Tractor, 1701 W. Travis St, La Grange, (979) 968-3187, www.kleibertrac tor.com, p. 35

Farmers Markets

Bastrop 1832 Farmers Market, 1302 Chestnut St, www.bastrop1832farmers market.org, p. 85 River Valley Farmers Market, 2 locations in Elgin, and Smithville, www.river valleyfarmersmarket.com, p. 74

Fire Relief

Digital Inventory Specialists, 201 Childers Dr. #107, (512) 321-1590, dis-in ventory.com, p. 89

Florists

Bastrop Florist, 806 Chestnut St, (512) 321-2424, www.bastropflorist.net, p. 39 The Flower Shoppe, 75 Loop 150 W, Ste. D, (512) 303-0303, theflowershoppe.biz, p. 37

Flooring

Billy Does Floors, (512) 797-1803, billy doesfloors.com, p. 85

Podiatry Care

Dr. James Handy, 3101 Hwy. 71E, Ste. 211, (512) 321-0000, p. 21

Funeral Homes

Bastrop Providence Funeral Home, 2079 Texas 71 E, (512) 308-9188, p. 39 Marrs-Jones Funeral Home, 104 Olive, Smithville, (512) 237-2425, www.marrsjonesfuneralhome.com, p. 25 Marrs-Jones-Newby Funeral Home, 505 Old Austin Hwy, (512) 321-2576, www. marrs-jones-newbyfuneral.com, p. 25

Furniture

Liberty Glenn, 1011 Main St, (512) 5810501, www.libertyglenn.com, p. 74 Milton’s Home of Fine Furniture & Appliances, 206 NW Loop 230, Smithville, (512) 360-3262, www.miltonsfurniture. com, p. 7

Garden Centers

Bastrop Gardens, 316 Old Hwy 71, (512) 303-FLORA (5672), www.bastropgardens. com, p. 17

Gifts

Blue Donkey Gallery, 1022 Main St, (512) 304-5332 bluedonkeystudio.com, p.75 Book Basket, 913 Main St, (512) 3320777, www.bastropbookbasket.com, p. 67 Cripple Creek and Company, 928 S Main St, (512) 332-2477, www.cripplecreekand company.com, p. 7 Liberty Glenn, 1011 Main St, (512) 5810501, www.libertyglenn.com, p. 74 Liza Jane, 918 Main St, (512) 321-2910, p. 41 Piney Creek Candles, 922 Main St, (512) 321-7467, www.pineycreekcandles.com, p. 77 Sketters Joys Gifts, 1022 Main St, (254) 715-1100, p.75 Sugar Shack, 114 Loop 150 W, (512) 3213777, www.sugarshackbastrop.com, p. 54

Hall Rental

VFW Post 2527, FM 20, (512) 321-2610, www.vfwwebcom.org/tx/post2527 p. 13

Health and Fitness

Body Toners Fitness, 1105 Main St, (512) 321-6181, www.bodytonersfitness.com, p. 29 Jazzercise, 612 Old Austin Hwy, (512) 988-1259, www.BastropJazz.com, p. 21 YMCA, 1112 Main St, (512) 321-9622, www.bastropymca.org, p.43

Home Builders

Bridges Enterprises, 962 Hwy 71 E, (512) 922-2362, www.bridgesenterprisesinc.com p. Design Tech Homes, 696 Hwy. 71 W., , (512) 308-1125, DTH.com, p. 53 Nalle Homes, 105 Applewood Dr, Cedar Creek, (512) 985-6825, nallecustomhomes. com, p. 69 Southwest Homes, 141 Tahitian Dr, (512)

308-1211, txsouthwesthomes.com, p. 43 TX Classic Homes, 117 Loop 150, Ste. 180, (512) 303-1942, texasclassicsusa.com, p. 59

Home Health

Bluebonnet Home Health Services, 1005 Main, (512) 303-7281, p. 72

Hospitals

St. David’s Emergency Center Bastrop, 3201 Hwy. 71 E, (512) 816-2300, p. 98 St. Mark’s Medical, One St. Mark’s Place, La Grange, (979) 242-2200, smmctx.org, p. 69

House Cleaning

GI Kleen, (512) 579-1535, al@alandlau ra.com, p. 39

Income Tax Preparation

Go Figure, 103 Childers Drive, (512) 3214400, www.gofiguretaxbooks.com, p. 67 H&R Block, 1617 Pine St, (512) 303-6544 and 201 Hunter’s Crossing Blvd, (512) 3030134, www.hrblock.com, p. 11

Insurance

Chad Clark Insurance Agency, 1007 Main St., Bastrop, (512) 303-9166 or (512) 321-9165, p. 57 Koehler-Barton Insurance, 799 Texas 71 W., (512) 303-5617, and 311 W. 5th, Suite 100, Austin, (512) 600-8297, www.kbitexas. com, p. 71 State Farm, James Allen, 815 Hwy. 71 W, (512) 581-3535, jamesallenagency.com, p. 21 State Farm, Lori Tuggle, 815 Hwy. 71 W, (512) 581-3939, lorituggleagency.com, p. 21

Lawn and Garden Equipment

B & B Auto & Small Engine, 1101 Chestnut St., (512) 321-2122, p. 65 Kleiber Tractor, 1701 W. Travis St., La Grange, (979) 968-3187, www.kleibertrac tor.com, p. 35 Sears, 735 Old Austin Hwy., Suite B, (512) 321-9600, p. 77

Lodging

Best Western Bastrop Pines Inn, 107 Hunter’s Crossing Blvd., (512) 321-0900, www.bwbastrop.com, p. 85 Holiday Inn Express, 491 Agnes St., (512) 321-1900, holidayinnbastrop.com, p. 87 The Oaks RV Park, 753 Union Chapel Rd, Cedar Creek, (512) 200-4994, theoak srvpark.com, p. 87

Mail & Office Services

Old Town Postal, 906 Main St., 512-3212281, p. 57

See DIRECTORY, page 96

The Bastropian 2012-13

ADVERTISER DIRECTORY Continued from page 95 Manufactured Homes

The Home Source, 1547 Hwy. 71 W, Cedar Creek, (512) 308-9200, bastrophome source.com, p. 61

Mattresses

Milton’s Home of Fine Furniture & Appliances, 206 N.W. Loop 230, Smithville, (512) 360-3262, www.miltonsfurniture. com, p. 7

Movie Theater

Schulman Theatres Lost Pines 8 Movie, 1600 Chestnut St., (512) 321-0123, p. 84

Museum

Lock Drugs, 1003 Main St, (512) 3212422, p. 72

Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa, www.visitlostpines.com, p. 49 McKinney Roughs Nature Park, 1884 Texas 71 W., Cedar Creek, (512) 303-5073, www.lcra.org/mckinneyroughs, p. 47 YMCA, 1112 Main St., 512-321-9622, www.bastropymca.org, p. 43

Photography

Resorts and Spas

Bastrop Veterinary Hospital, 2900 Texas 95 N, (512) 303-6969, www.bastropvet.com, p. 89

Pharmacy

Karol Rice Photography, 1404 Pine Street, (512) 321-4800, www.imagesbykarol.com, p. 19

Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa, Cedar Creek, www.visitlostpines.com, p. 49

Physicians

Anita’s Mexican Restaurant, 1004 Main St., (512) 303-9693, p. 83 Back Door Café, 117 Main St., Smithville, (512) 237-3128, p. 81 Baxters on Main, 919 Main St., (512) 3213577, p. 79 Billy’s BBQ, 110 Hwy. 71 W, 512-3216453, p. 83 Bassano’s Italian Restaurant, 141 Tahitian Dr, (512) 321-3393, p. 83 Cedar’s Mediterranean Grill, 904 E. College St., (512) 321-7808, www.Cedars MedGrill.com, p. 79 Coffee Dog Roastery & Coffee House, 49 Loop 150, Bastrop (512) 303-2244, www. coffeedoginc.com, p. 81 Deli Depot, 1006 Main St., (512) 3210808, p. 81 Gracie’s/Grace Miller, 706 Pine St., (512) 332-2991, p. 79 Kay’s Café, 1289 Hwy 71 E, between Bastrop & Smithville, (512) 237-KAYS, p. 81 Larrie’s Smokehouse BBQ, 810 Hwy. 95 N, (512) 332-0788, p. 83 Maxine’s on Main, 905 Main St., (512) 303-0919, www.maxinesonmain.com, p. 83 Murphy’s Steakhouse, 204 Thomas St., Winchester, (979) 242-3433, www.eatat murphys.com, p. 81 Ramos #2 Mexican Restaurant, 710 Chestnut St, (512) 321-4003, p. 81 Roadhouse, 2804 Texas 21 E. (across from Bastrop State Park), (512) 321-1803, p. 79 Sac N Pac KFC, 901 Hwy. 95, 512-3080656, p. 29 Schulman Theatres Lost Pines 8 Grill, 1600 Chestnut St, (512) 321-0123, p 84

Family Health Center – Dr. Vocal and Dr. Chavez, Lakeside Professional Building, 3101 Texas 71 E., Suite 101, (512) 304-0300, p. 3

Bastrop County Historical Society Museum, (512) 303-0057 or (512) 581-1554, www. BastropMuseumandVisitorCenter.org, p. 27

Plumbing Services

Music Education and Supplies

Timber-N-Steel, Mac Bros. Construction, 512-968-7327, p. 72

Bastrop Academy of Music, 1109 Main St., (512) 321-PLAY, p. 67

Natural Health/Herbs

Oh My, 920 Main St, (512) 718-0800, p.

77 Sketters Joys Gifts, 1022 Main St, (254) 715-1100, p.75 Wild Thyme Herb Shop, Hippie’s Skincare, 1022 Main St, (512) 284-1152 www. wildthymeherbshop.com, p.75

Osborn Plumbing, 512-321-6098, p. 72

Pole Barns

Propane Sales and Service

Tex Propane Co, 806 College St, (512) 308-9161, p. 27

Real Estate

Dakota Painting, (512) 581-9060, dako tapainting.net, p. 27

Bastrop Star of Texas, 804 Spring St, (512) 303-9910, www.texasclassics.com, p. 29 Bridges Enterprises, 962 Hwy 71 E, (512) 922-2362, www.bridgesenterprisesinc.com p. 63 Coldwell Banker Green-Mills & Associates, 108 Industry Rd, (512) 303-5400, www. move2tx.com, p. 57 George Reinemund Agency, 702 Chestnut St Suite 200, (512) 303-5709, www.georg ereinemund.com, p. 67 RE/MAX Bastrop Area, 87 Loop 150 W, (512) 303-4441, www.BastropForSale.com, back cover Janis Penick - RE/MAX Bastrop Area, (512) 921-9134, www.janispenick.com, p. 23 Shelia Rainosek – RE/MAX Bastrop Area, (512) 773-6758, www.bastroptxland. com, p. 23 Stanberry & Associates, 111 N. Hasler Blvd., Suite 101, (512) 303-5065, www.stan berry.com, p. 2 Susan Noguès Real Estate, (512) 3219463, www.SNRealEstate.com, p. 71 Winkler & Company, 1111 U.S. 290 E, Elgin, (512) 281-3336, www.WinklerTeam. com, p. 39

Pest Control

Recreation

Nursing Centers

and

Rehabilitation

Bastrop Lost Pines Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, 430 Old Austin Hwy., (512) 321-3527, www.bastropnursing.com, p. 4 Towers Nursing Home, 907 Garwood St., Smithville, (512) 237-4606, www.tower snursing.com, p. 63

Orthodontics

Bastrop Orthodontics, 301 Hwy 71 W., Ste. 201, (512) 321-1000, www.bastroportho. com, p. 69

Outdoor Grill Sales

Tex Propane Co., 806 College St., (512) 308-9161, p. 27

Painting & Drywall

Bugmaster, (512) 321-7447, thebugmas ter.com, p. 59

Pet Services

Bastrop County Animal Shelter, 589 Cool Water Drive, (512) 581-4080, www.petango. com/bastropanimalshelter, p. 63

Bastrop River Company, 601 Chestnut St, (512) 988-1154, bastroprivercompany.com, p. 7 BYSO - Bastrop Youth Soccer Organization, Fields located off Texas 95, P.O. Box 1544, (512) 807-9031, www.bastropsoccer. org, p. 23

Restaurants and Catering

RV Parks

The Oaks RV Park, 753 Union Chapel Rd, Cedar Creek, (512) 200-4994, theoak srvpark.com, p. 87

Sporting Goods

Fast Forward Ink, 108 Chestnut St., (512) 321-5355, fastforwardink.com, p. 74

Main St., (512) 303-4185, www.jamesega ron.com, p. 35

Theaters

Bastrop Opera House, 711 Spring St., (512) 321-6283, www.bastropoperahouse. com, p. 31 Gaslight Baker Theatre, 216 S. Main St., Lockhart, (512) 376-5653, www.gaslight bakertheatre.org, p. 41

Title Companies

Bastrop Abstract Company, 489 Texas 71 W., Suite 201, Bastrop or 22 N. Main, Elgin, (512) 303-2567, www.BastropAbstract. com, p. 25

Tools

B & B Auto and Small Engine, 1101 Chestnut St., (512) 321-2122, p. 65 Sears, 735 Old Austin Hwy., Ste. B, (512) 321-9600, p. 65

Towing Services

L & M Automotive & Transmission, 2002 Chestnut St., Texas 21, (512) 3216958, p. 65 Lonestar Collision, 2773 N. Main St., (512) 321-7827, www.lonestarcollisionbas trop.com, p. 17

Transportation, Public

Capital Area Rural Transportation, P.O. Box 6050 Austin, TX 78761, (512) 478-7433 RideCARTS.com, p. 65

Utility Services

City of Bastrop, 904 Main St., (512) 3213941, p. 19

Veterinary Services

Bastrop Veterinary Hospital, 2900 Texas 95 N., (512) 303-6969, www.bastropvet. com, p. 89

Video Production

Upstart, P.O. Box 365, (512) 321-2496, www.upstartbastrop.com, p. 13

Water Supplier

Aqua Water Supply Corporation, 415 Old Austin Hwy., (512) 303-3943, p. 87

Youth Programs and Organizations

Boys & Girls Club of Bastrop County, 603 Linden St Suite C, (512) 321-6676, p. 71 YMCA, 1112 Main St, (512) 321-9622, www.bastropymca.org, p.43

Storage

Lone Star Storage, 807 Texas 71 W., (512) 332-0111, www.lonestar-storage.com, p. 93

Surveyors

James E. Garon & Associates, Inc., 924

Zumba

Body Toners Fitness, 1105 Main St, (512) 321-6181, www.bodytonersfitness. com, p. 29

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