It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Bastrop, TX is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“I am so happy with Mr. Steven Coleman services. He has been very professional and”
“We had an excellent experience with Always Best Care Senior Services in Austin. They provided”
“Highly recommend using Always Best Care for all your senior service needs! Super helpful and”
“Kyle and his team are great.”
“I am a past client of this provider My siblings and I engaged Always Best Care”
“Kyle and his team rock ,really good communicators. I would refer them to people who”
“Always best care is ALWAYS the BEST care. No pun intended. Means a lot to”
“Always Best Care provided the perfect service we needed for our mom. Their caregivers were”
“Lori and Kyle were great to work with and are super people. They matched my”
“I work for this team and it's a wonderful team , great communication and support”
“Ken and Bonnie are wonderful people to help care for your loved ones. their staff”
“Ken and Bonnie were wonderful to work with. They were able to provide my mother”
“Owners Lori and Kyle are genuine, salt-of-the-earth folks who are super-dedicated to their clients. I”
“Lori & Kyle were very attentive and responded very quickly to our needs. They visited”
“Always Best came to the rescue when my mother needed immediate caregiver services while in”
“I’ve known Lori for years and have high confidence in her ability to provide care.”
“I had the pleasure of working with Lori Schrayer in a professional setting where she”
“I am a current client of this provider Lori and staff - What a sanity saver”
“Always Best Care of Austin, TX is the only place I trust to care for”
“I am so happy with Mr. Steven Coleman services. He has been very professional and helpful.”
“We had an excellent experience with Always Best Care Senior Services in Austin. They provided in home care when my mom got out of the hospital and, in parallel, helped us find an assisted living facility. I was calling them from the hospital and we didn't know when my mom would be discharged or what kind of care she would need and Always Best Care was responsive, flexible and provided guidance when we needed it most. This was a stressful time and they gave us peace of mind while providing the best care for my mom. The caregivers were on time, thoughtful and kind. I'd recommend Always Best Care to anyone trying to navigate the complexities of eldercare.”
“Highly recommend using Always Best Care for all your senior service needs! Super helpful and really takes care of patients to make them feel comfortable and safe!”
“Kyle and his team are great.”
“I am a past client of this provider My siblings and I engaged Always Best Care to help care for our mother, initially when she was still able to do a significant amount on her own. Over time she declined and needed different levels of care. At each stage, Lori, Kyle, and each member of the ABC team listened to our needs, and was warm, caring, attentive, patient, punctual, and flexible in accommodating Mom‘s abilities, needs, and wants. Caregivers often went above and beyond, and the teams’ communication with my siblings and me was terrific – – especially helpful since none of us lived in the area. I feel fortunate to have been connected with Lori and Kyle, and I highly recommend the ABC team.”
“Kyle and his team rock ,really good communicators. I would refer them to people who would need this service”
“Always best care is ALWAYS the BEST care. No pun intended. Means a lot to know my loved ones are in good hands ????”
“Always Best Care provided the perfect service we needed for our mom. Their caregivers were on time, professional, and did what mom/we asked of them and more. The owners, Lori & Kyle, listened to our needs and went above and beyond in their help and care. A few times when we had to take mom to the ER, Lori and/ or Kyle came to the house to be sure all of mom's needs were met. At the end of mom's life, their caregivers could not have been more attentive, kind, caring and professional. I would highly recommend ABC Care for your loved one.”
“Lori and Kyle were great to work with and are super people. They matched my husband up with very competent companions who were kind and dependable.”
“I work for this team and it's a wonderful team , great communication and support for our clients, their family members and our caring team of staff .”
“Ken and Bonnie are wonderful people to help care for your loved ones. their staff was so caring to my mother and so nice to my family I highly recommend them to take care of your loved ones. I think there ought to be more than just five stars to give them”
“Ken and Bonnie were wonderful to work with. They were able to provide my mother with care and a very short notice. Their staff was some of the most caring people that I've ever met. Not only were they wonderful to my mother but also to my family. I would highly recommend using them.”
“Owners Lori and Kyle are genuine, salt-of-the-earth folks who are super-dedicated to their clients. I know I can trust them to make sure our Mom gets the care and help she needs. And caregiver Leah is so very kind -- she's the best!”
“Lori & Kyle were very attentive and responded very quickly to our needs. They visited us in person to introduce the new aide, to make sure instructions were done smoothy. ABC came thru in a very critical time for us. Forever grateful for their compassion & thoughtfulness to our health needs.”
“Always Best came to the rescue when my mother needed immediate caregiver services while in a skilled nursing facility and it continues to provide steady, reliable and helpful care now that she is at home. The owners are very kind and authentic and seem to really care about the people they are helping! My mother adores her caregiver. Would highly recommend.”
“I’ve known Lori for years and have high confidence in her ability to provide care. She’s caring, intelligent, dependable and friendly. She would be an excellent service provider!”
“I had the pleasure of working with Lori Schrayer in a professional setting where she was in a leadership role. I worked with her and her team on multiple projects as a liaison to the County Manager or head of the municipal organization. Lori is consistent in her treatment of peers, communication style, and commitment to her staff. I would be fortunate to work with Lori in the future and would provide her business if given the opportunity as I know they’d be in great hands.”
“I am a current client of this provider Lori and staff - What a sanity saver and great team. From day one we have felt that Mom’s well being is their first priority. We were extremely hesitant to turn over care to someone else. But those concerns vanished immediately— thanks to the team’s communication and compassion. It’s a great comfort knowing the entire staff are there for us and responsive to our need and requests.”
“Always Best Care of Austin, TX is the only place I trust to care for my elder loved ones. It's locally owned by a the kindest couple who treat every patient and employee like part of their family. Their caregivers are compassionate and give me a sense of comfort knowing my loved ones are in good hands when I cannot be with them.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Bastrop, TX, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Bastrop, TX understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Bastrop, TX 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
BASTROP COUNTY, Texas – A large wildfire has prompted evacuations near Bastrop in Central Texas.Update: the #HudsonFire in Bastrop County is an estimated 400 acres and 10% contained. Fire activity continues to be active with tree torching. Crews are working to secure the right flank of the fire. ...
BASTROP COUNTY, Texas – A large wildfire has prompted evacuations near Bastrop in Central Texas.
Update: the #HudsonFire in Bastrop County is an estimated 400 acres and 10% contained. Fire activity continues to be active with tree torching. Crews are working to secure the right flank of the fire. #txfire ???? Hudson Fire activity, 11/3. Credit: Texas A&M Forest Service pic.twitter.com/fK6QPohlXd
— Incident Information - Texas A&M Forest Service (@AllHazardsTFS) November 4, 2024
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The fire has been designated the Hudson Fire and according to the Texas A&M Forest Service, it currently is 400 acres in size. It is about 15% contained at this time.
Evacuations have been ordered for areas near the community of Alum Creek, just southeast of Bastrop.
The Bastrop County Office of Emergency Management said residents from Highway 71 at Alum Creek north to Gotier Trace have been notified to evacuate.
Fire crews with heavy equipment have been working to create containment lines and firetrucks are working to protect threatened structures in the area. Aircraft have also been working to fight the fire.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott posted on X that emergency response personnel are at the scene.
Texas emergency response personnel are on scene at the Hudson Fire in Bastrop.We deployed over 90 personnel & over 60 assets, including firefighters & troopers, air tankers, fire engines, & more.We stand ready to deploy all resources needed to protect Texans.Praying for the…
— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) November 4, 2024
“We deployed over 90 personnel & over 60 assets, including firefighters & troopers, air tankers, fire engines, & more. We stand ready to deploy all resources needed to protect Texans. Praying for the safety of all in Bastrop,” Abbott said on X.
At 8:50 p.m., the Bastrop County Office of Emergency Management said the fire is slowing down its forward movement thanks to lower winds and higher humidity, but it has not completely stopped moving.
“Forward progression has slowed, but has not been stopped. There are now 7 bulldozers and over 20 fire trucks on scene. Lower wind speeds and higher humidity after night fall is helping decrease fire behavior,” the office said.
Evacuations are underway while crews work to tame a wildfire burning over 400 acres just north of Smithville.Update: Nov. 4, 7:47 a.m.Texas A&M Forest Service officials said during a media briefing that no timeline has been established yet for allowing residents to return home, but they hope to make that determination later today depending on the fire activity.Officials added that evaluations on affected homes will begin and more information will be shared later this afternoon.An offici...
Evacuations are underway while crews work to tame a wildfire burning over 400 acres just north of Smithville.
Update: Nov. 4, 7:47 a.m.
Texas A&M Forest Service officials said during a media briefing that no timeline has been established yet for allowing residents to return home, but they hope to make that determination later today depending on the fire activity.
Officials added that evaluations on affected homes will begin and more information will be shared later this afternoon.
An official cause of the fire has not been determined.
Sheila Lowe, the executive director for the Bastrop County Long Term Recovery Team said donations of water and Gatorade can be dropped off at the Smithville Recreation Center at 106 Royston St., or the Smithville Fire Department at 317 NW Loop 230.
Update: Nov. 4, 6 a.m.
According to officials from the National Interagency Fire Center at 6 a.m., the wildfire was at 20% containment and still around 400 acres.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott posted a statement on social media, saying nearly 100 emergency personnel from a range of agencies had been deployed.
"We stand ready to deploy all resources needed to protect Texans," Abbott said in his post. "Praying for the safety of all in Bastrop."
State Rep. Stan Gerdes, who represents Bastrop, also posted online saying there had been no deaths or injuries as of 6 p.m. on Nov. 3; however, a total of 65 people had been evacuated and at least 20 homes were threatened.
"Stay vigilant and pray for our first responders, and the families impacted," he said in the post.
Update: Nov. 3, 9:29 p.m.
The Bastrop County Office of Emergency Management has reported that the fire is an estimated 400 acres and 10% contained. Forward progression of the fire has slowed, but has not been stopped.
As of 8:50 p.m. there are seven bulldozers and over 20 fire trucks on the scene. Lower wind speeds and higher humidity after nightfall is helping decrease fire behavior, according to county officials.
The Smithville Recreation Center accepting evacuated residents and Mayfest Park accepting evacuated animals will stop taking walk-ins tonight at 10 p.m., according to a Facebook post from the BCOEM. The general information phone line will remain staffed overnight, and can be reached at 512-521-3001.
The following map provided by the Texas A&M Forest Service shows a rough outline of the fire, and is subject to change.
Update: Nov. 3, 6:40 p.m.
Bastrop County Animal Services officials have set up a temporary animal shelter at Mayfest Park, 25 American Legion Drive, Bastrop.
Accepted animals include:
Those with questions can call 512-549-5160.
Update: Nov. 3, 6:35 p.m.
The National Interagency Fire Center reported that the fire is now at 400 acres and 10% contained.
Original: Nov. 3, 5:27 p.m. What you need to know
On Nov. 3, as of 5:25 p.m., three locations received evacuation orders, including:
Officials from the BCOEM said no specific routes are in place; however, residents in these areas should head south toward Highway 71.
BCOEM said the Smithville Recreation Center will open as an emergency shelter for those displaced at 6:30 p.m.
What's happening
The National Interagency Fire Center reported the fire at 1:46 p.m. to be 10 acres near the 100 block of Hudson Road in Smithville, just south of Park Road 1C. Evacuations began 4 minutes later.
BCOEM officials said the fire was quickly pushed northward by strong winds around 2:30 p.m., causing more evacuations to be ordered.
In the three hours that followed, the fire grew to over 250 acres and was 5% contained; however, officials noted that "the fire is still active and forward progression has not been stopped."
What else?
Bastrop County has been under a burn ban since Aug. 26 for all residents living within unincorporated areas of the county.
Residents living within unincorporated areas of the county are prohibited from any outdoor burning until the order is lifted.
Bastrop County Commissioners will reevaluation conditions at the next meeting on Nov. 12.
The county's Keetch-Byram Drought Index, or KBDI, climbed from 338 on Aug. 7 to 722 on Nov. 2, according to Water Data for Texas.
The KBDI scale ranges from 0-800, and the Texas A&M Forest Service website explains that any level above 400 indicates a high potential for wildfires with extreme intensity.
For reference, the KBDI on Sept. 4, 2011, the day the Bastrop County Complex Fire ignited, was 789.Stay tuned
This is a developing story. Community Impact will continue to add more information as updates are reported.
Reporter
With a focus on hyper-local, in-depth coverage in Bastrop County, Amanda tackles a broad scope of reporting including hard news like development, education, elections, government, and transportation; enterprise stories concerning community curiosities; and features highlighting local businesses, events, nonprofits, restaurants, and more. Have a tip? Send her an email to [email protected].
Editor
Sierra is an editor for the San Marcos/Buda/Kyle paper. She graduated from Texas State University with a degree in journalism and media studies in 2020. When she joined Community Impact in July 2022, she covered education, local government, transportation, business and real estate development in the New Braunfels community. Prior to CI, Sierra served as the managing editor of San Marcos Corridor News and spent time as a senior reporter for the University Star. When she is not writing, she enjoys reading and traveling.
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Hudson Fire burns 400 acresA wildfire east of Bastrop has burned at least 400 acres as of Sunday evening.The BriefThe Hudson Fire east of Bastrop has engulfed 400 acres with 15% containment as of 10 p.m. Nov. 3.First responders asked residents from Highway 71 to Alum Creek and north to Gotier Trace to evacuate. However, as planes fly overhead carrying water to extinguish the flames, the only thing on Will Seller's mind is his animals."Pretty nervous," said Sellers....
A wildfire east of Bastrop has burned at least 400 acres as of Sunday evening.
The Hudson Fire east of Bastrop has engulfed 400 acres with 15% containment as of 10 p.m. Nov. 3.
First responders asked residents from Highway 71 to Alum Creek and north to Gotier Trace to evacuate. However, as planes fly overhead carrying water to extinguish the flames, the only thing on Will Seller's mind is his animals.
"Pretty nervous," said Sellers. "Definitely more concerned about them than the material stuff over there."
Three dogs and two goats are less than a mile up the road, now blocked off by first responders.
"I have no idea if they're safe," said Sellers. ‘I came up here from work, and they're not letting anyone through since it's just an evacuation, I just heard about it as soon as I got to work."
His house is one of at least forty that the Bastrop County Office of Emergency Management is asking people to evacuate.
"Oftentimes, in Texas, we don't have a lot of notification, a lot of lead time before we evacuate," said Kari Hines, a public information officer for the Texas A&M Forest Service. "Planning for evacuations with livestock really has to be something that we do long before the fire ever starts."
The Hudson fire started just south of Park Road 1 C around noon on Sunday and quickly engulfed 400 acres in just four hours.
"The fire is burning quite actively, and when I say that I mean it's moving quite quickly, and the flames that it's producing are extremely long," said Hines.
It is the perfect storm for a dangerous fire.
"This wind, the dry weather, the low humidity, the fact that we haven't gotten any rain in over a month is all leading up to a higher fire danger," said Hines.
Dead tree limbs poke out of a nearby field watching helicopters circle the fire.
It's a bit of déjà vu for this area.
"This is an area that has been impacted by multiple wildfires over the last 15 years and because of that there's a lot of fuel on the ground, dead materials from the last fires to burn," said Hines.
The Hudson Fire is eerily close to the 2011 Bastrop County Fire, which destroyed almost 1700 structures. First responders are focused on keeping this one contained and will fight the winds as long as they have to.
"We'll be very concerned for public safety and firefighter safety throughout the evening," said Hines.
The Bastrop County Animal Services is activating its emergency response team and setting up a shelter at Mayfest Park. The Bastrop County AgriLife Extension is also at the park helping with livestock assistance. For questions, they ask people to call 512-549-5160.
The Smithville Recreation Center is operating as a shelter for residents without animals.
Sellers later updated FOX 7 Austin and shared that he was able to rescue his dogs and goats on Sunday afternoon.
A wildfire fueled by high winds is spreading near Bastrop State Park, the Texas A&M Forest Service says.The Hudson Fire, which has burned 400 acres as of 7:45 a.m. Monday, is 20% contained, officials said.High humidity Sunday night "greatly helped diminish fire activity," the Bastrop County Office of Emergency Management, said in one of its updates to its ...
A wildfire fueled by high winds is spreading near Bastrop State Park, the Texas A&M Forest Service says.
The Hudson Fire, which has burned 400 acres as of 7:45 a.m. Monday, is 20% contained, officials said.
High humidity Sunday night "greatly helped diminish fire activity," the Bastrop County Office of Emergency Management, said in one of its updates to its Facebook page.
Firefighters are working Monday to keep a bulldozer line along the fire's perimeter secure, officials said.
Evacuations and road closures are still in effect along Park Road 1C between Alum Creek and Cottletown Road.
There are also evacuations in effect from State Highway 71 at Alum Creek north to Goiter Trace. Displaced residents can go to the Smithville Recreation Center at 106 Royston St.
Bastrop County Animal Services has a temporary shelter for dogs, cats and other small animals at Mayfest Park in Bastrop. The Bastrop County Agrilife Extension is coordinating help for livestock at the park. Animal owners can call 512-549-5160 with questions.
A video from the Forest Service shows aircraft dropping water on the fire as smoke billowed.
Public information map of the #HudsonFire in Bastrop County as of Nov. 3, 2024. The fire is an estimated 400 acres and 10% contained. This is a preliminary perimeter and is subject to change. #txfire pic.twitter.com/7BlQ1q35kD
— Incident Information - Texas A&M Forest Service (@AllHazardsTFS) November 4, 2024
Update: the #HudsonFire in Bastrop County remains an estimated 50 acres and 0% contained. The fire is exhibiting active fire behavior. Aircraft and ground crews are working to slow fire spread. Super scoopers are in bound to assist as well. #txfire pic.twitter.com/nC8OWTpeWi
— Incident Information - Texas A&M Forest Service (@AllHazardsTFS) November 3, 2024
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
Bastrop residents have plenty of events to look forward to in November. Whether residents are interested in a car show or attending a fundraising event for a local organization, there’s something for all individuals to add to their calendars.Heroes and Hot Rods Veterans Day Cruise In and Car ShowThe 18th annual car show is hosted by Bastrop Area Cruisers. Attendees can expect a classic car cruise in on Friday. Saturday will feature a car show, kids activity area, vendor booths, a silent auction, a Veteran...
Bastrop residents have plenty of events to look forward to in November. Whether residents are interested in a car show or attending a fundraising event for a local organization, there’s something for all individuals to add to their calendars.
Heroes and Hot Rods Veterans Day Cruise In and Car Show
The 18th annual car show is hosted by Bastrop Area Cruisers. Attendees can expect a classic car cruise in on Friday. Saturday will feature a car show, kids activity area, vendor booths, a silent auction, a Veteran’s Day tribute, a raffle and door prizes.
Hope for the Holidays
First United Methodist Church of Bastrop will host its annual crafting event to help fundraise for their mission to build relationships, serve others and grow closer to God. Attendees can expect fall and Christmas crafts, a silent auction, food and baked goods.
Elgin Empty Bowl
Hosted by the Bastrop County Emergency Food Pantry, participants will receive one hand-painted ceramic soup bowl. A group of local restaurants will provide a variety of chili, soup and stew for participants to eat from their bowls. Ages 12 and under eat free but do not get a ceramic soup bowl. In collaboration with the Elgin Chamber and the local Veterans of Foreign Wars organization, attendees are encouraged to buy a bowl for a local veteran.
20th annual Veterans Appreciation Banquet
Nonprofit Red, White and Blue Veterans of Bastrop County will host the annual event honoring local veterans and their families. Commemorative 20th anniversary coins will be sold at the event and all funds raised will go toward county organizations such as Bastrop County Veterans Honor Guard.
Bastrop County Local Food Fair
Attendees can learn about the Bastrop County food system with information and resources presented by Bastrop County Cares, Texas Center for Local Food and Sustainable Food Center. The event will feature activities for kids, a farmers market, a panel discussion and interactive exhibits to celebrate local food.
Teen Heart Screening
Screenings will be conducted by Championship Hearts Foundation and include an electrocardiogram and an echocardiogram. Tests are noninvasive, painless and the entire process takes approximately 45 minutes. The Christian Harmon Memorial Golf Tournament is sponsoring the event and ages 14-18 can get screenings. Attendees must pre-register ahead of time on the website.
Kitty Bingo Playin’ for Spayin’
Volunteer-based organization Bastrop Cats Anonymous Trap-Neuter-Return Society will host its 6th bingo event to raise funds to spay, neuter and vaccinate community cats as part of its mission to improve the lives of cats in the Bastrop community. Guests can expect 10 games, raffles, dinner, dessert and a silent auction. VIP ticket holders will receive early entry at 4:30 p.m. for a cocktail hour.
Bastrop County Senior Expo
Meals on Wheels Rural Capital Area and Combined Community Action, partnered with Bastrop Community Cares, will host the event featuring a variety of local organizations and senior agencies providing resources for seniors and volunteer opportunities for those interested. There will also be live music, food and drinks, door prizes and goodie bags. There will be a free shuttle service available from multiple locations.
Wassail Fest and Small Business Saturday
The city of Bastrop Main Street Program will host the Lost Pines Christmas event where participants can taste homemade wassail, enjoy holiday treats and shop from local businesses. There will be a limited amount of commemorative wassail glasses distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Dacia is a features reporter for northern markets in the Austin metro. She joined Community Impact in June 2024 shortly after graduating from The University of Texas with a degree in journalism. Dacia previously interned for Austin PBS and Voces Oral History Center. In her free time, she enjoys antique shopping, practicing yoga and trying new restaurants in the city.
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