EXPLORE - March 2023

+ + +

tres molinos hill country ranch & resort

crazy for crawfish

texas salt co.

March 2023

cover photo by Brie Smith - @wella_fox

The BIG Red Barn The BIG Red Barn

Making Healthy Eating

Do you know about the Big Red Barn? Each Wednesday, Kerr County Produce opens their doors to the public and offers a vast array of fresh fruits and vegetables to the community at wholesale prices. “We started doing this as a service to the community, but as it turns out it has been a blessing for us as well. The atmosphere here on Wednesdays is just fantastic. There is a real sense of community. People come not just to buy produce, but also as an opportunity to socialize,” said Wiley Rains, owner of Kerr County Produce. “We trade recipes, they enjoy our friendly employees, and everyone just has a good time.”

In addition to the friendly comradery, the display of gorgeous fruits and veggies is very impressive. “Our customers always comment on the wonderful aroma that fills the air,” said Rains.

Kerr County Produce has been in business for over 40 years, supplying produce to local restaurants. They source their products locally when available, but also bring in fruits and veggies from all over the United States. Each week they have a different variety of produce available depending on the season.

Customers are encouraged to bring their own bags and have the option to shop for specific items or pick up a pre-filled bag of goodies! According to Wiley, “We started offering the pre-filled bags during Covid as an easier way to get groceries. Many customers still enjoy the convenience of it, and it is a great deal. $20 gets you a 20-pound bag of assorted fruits and vegetables that you and your family can enjoy all week!”

Mark your calendars and head to Kerrville on Wednesdays!

The Big Red Barn is open from 10:00am to 5:30pm 215 A Street – Kerrville

March 18, 2023 • Mansfield Park • 2886 Texas 16 – Bandera

“Catch ‘em, if you can! ”

Head to Bandera on Saturday, March 18th and go hog wild at the Bandera Ham Rodeo! Come watch as contestants of all ages compete to catch a wild hog in a calf scramble style event.

Think you have what it takes to compete? Get there early and sign up. Age divisions start as young as 3 years old and go all the way up to adults. Kids participate in a “hog touch”, while adult teams of two must catch, bag and get their hog across the line as fast as they can in this timed event. The size of the hogs increases with the age of the participants.

Prizes include belt buckles and more! Hy O Silver has donated a total of 16 beautiful belt buckles that will be awarded to first and second place in four event divisions.

Formerly the Wild Hog Explosion, this family friendly event has been entertaining folks in the hill country for 17 years. The Bandera Ham Rodeo is put on by the Bandera Wranglers, an organization whose mission is to bring the community together to support those in need. They are mentoring the next generation of Wranglers by giving them a common purpose and moral call-to-arms to bring Bandera together as a stronger community.

Crazy for Crawfish

TIPS FOR THE PERFECT BOIL

Backyard barbecues are fun, but for a truly good time, a crawfish boil is where it’s at! If you are a crawfish boil beginner, the whole process – from all the needed equipment to the big bag of live crustaceans – can be a bit intimidating. But have no fear, once you’ve gathered your gear and gone through the process you are sure to be hooked! Here’s what you need to let the good times roll:

Live Crawfish

Make sure you buy your crawfish live and right before you plan to boil them. As a good rule of thumb you will need about three to five pounds of crawfish per guest.

A Large Pot and Large Ice Chest

You will need a pot big enough to hold two quarts of liquid for every pound of crawfish. You also need a gas or propane burner big enough to hold your pot and an ice chest that is large enough to hold your crawfish.

Wash Your Crawfish

There is a reason they call crawfish mudbugs! You need to put your live crawfish in the ice chest and rinse them with cool, clean water.

Seasonings

Everybody has an opinion on what the right seasonings are and how much you need. It really comes down to personal preference. Find a good boil seasoning, we like Zatarains Pro Boil, but choose what you like. You can even ad lemons, oranges, onions and more to create your perfect flavor.

Extras

Add in corn, potatoes, and sausage links to perfect your boil and create a true Cajun feast!

Tools and Stuff

You will need a large metal or wooden paddle to stir the pot. Don’t forget plenty of newspaper to cover your tables and lots of paper towels and trash bags.

How to Boil

Once the crawfish are washed and the pot is filled with water, add in your seasoning (read package for correct amount). Now it’s time to get the water to a rolling boil.

Once boiling, add in the crawfish and bring the water back to a boil. When it is back to a boil, leave crawfish in for 3 minutes, then turn off the burner and cool

WHAT IS CRAWFISH?

down the water to about 160 degrees F. This can be done with ice, or if you don’t want to water down you seasoning, put in your frozen corn or even run a water hose with cold water on the outside of the pot.

Let your crawfish soak for about 20 minutes. The longer you let them soak, the more spice and flavor you will get!

If you would like to add sausage and veggies to your boil, but don’t want them to be as spicy, you can boil them first and pull them out. Once the crawfish are done you can mix it all together.

Drain your pot, dump out your boil onto a table covered with newspaper and chow down!

FIRST TIME EATING CRAWFISH? HERE’S HOW:

STEP 1: Remove the Head. Hold the head in one hand and pinch the body just below the head in the other hand, then gently push in, twist and separate the two.

STEP 2: Peel the shell of the tail.

STEP 3: Remove the tail meat and eat it.

STEP 4: Suck the head to get out all the flavorful juice.

Also known as crayfish, craydids, craybobs, crawdaddies, crawdads, freshwater lobsters, mountain lobsters, rock lobsters, mudbugs, baybugs and yabbies – call ‘em what you like, they are small crustaceans that live in fresh water and are similar in flavor to shrimp and lobster. Approximately 95% of the crawfish consumed in the United States are harvested from Louisiana.

Joyce G. Schwartz

M.D, Professor, Author

Joyce G. Schwartz, M.D., is a graduate of The University of Texas at Austin where she received a Master of Arts degree with high honors. She then attended The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio where she obtained her Medial Degree.

Dr. Schwartz was a tenured professor at The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UTHSCSA) then began working for Quest Diagnostics, Inc. where she served as Vice-President and Chief Laboratory Officer as well as Interim Vice President for Science and Innovation. She is currently working as a pathologist in San Antonio, Texas.

Dr. Schwartz has received many awards during her career, including the Minnie Stevens Piper Foundation Award, the Medical School Alumnus Award from UTHSCSA, and the Alpha Omega Alpha Award (Medical Honor Society). She was elected to the San Antonio Women’s Hall of Fame and was a recipient of the Presidential Teaching Award from UTHSCSA.

When Dr. Schwartz is not practicing pathology, she is writing novels—and they are award winning.

She published the novel, Inventing Madness, in 2015. It was an Eric Hoffer Finalist in 2020. The book also received Honorable Mention in the Red City Review Mystery Thriller Category (2015). Inventing Madness was Shortlisted in both the Silverwood KoboBerfort’s Open Day Writing Competition (2015) and in CLUE Novel Writing Contest (2015).

Dr. Schwartz published The Pearl Harbor Conspiracy in 2019. The novel won the National INDIE Award for Military Fiction (2020) and First Place in the Chanticleer International Book Awards (GOETHE Book Award for post 1750’s Historical Fiction).

Dr. Schwartz’s most recent novel (2021), The Curious Spell of Madam Genova, is a heartwarming tale of magic and mystery involving movie stars, politicians and gangsters. Their lives become intertwined in a fascinating story of twentiethcentury America. In June of 2022, the novel won first place in the Chanticleer International Book Awards (Paranormal category).

DAVE KEMP

by Matt Kersch

Have you watched Yellowstone? If you haven’t, well, you should; I know you have at least heard about it. Having been born and bred in Texas, I have at least a decent understanding of what it’s like to be a cowboy. In an age of technology and “progress,” that way of life has died out in a great many ways, but it isn’t dead.

Growing up, I watched the hell out of “Westerns.” Some of my absolute favorite movies included: The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, Rio Bravo, Shane, and The Sons of Katie Elder. Thankfully, I am just old enough to have also loved watching the old weekly shows like, The Lone Ranger, Gunsmoke, Sky King, and Bonanza. I was drawn to the stories of learning to work hard, fighting for what you believe in, to be a gentleman, but not to take bull excrement from folks.

Those were shows about cowboys, but I don’t know that any of them quite captured the nitty gritty parts of that unglamorous, but rewarding way of life, quite like Yellowstone. This month’s column isn’t about movies or shows, no, as usual, it’s about music. Though, I feel like that notion of understanding that “cowboy mentality” is a beneficial introduction to our story today.

One of the things I am blessed to do as a musician is to be a part of playing various city events in Boerne, Comfort, New Braunfels, etc. A handful of years ago, either in Boerne or Comfort, I was set

to take the stage after a gentleman who both in his look (not just his dress, but the way he carried himself) and music, struck me as a man I would consider a cowboy.

I got to hear him play a few before he wrapped up, and having grown up on classic country music, it was plain to see and hear that this fella knew what was up. Afterwards, I introduced myself and got to make the acquaintance for the first time with Dave Kemp. He was warm yet unassuming, and I got the feeling from talking to him that this was a man who had his feet firmly on the ground and knew who he was. Dave has been on my radar a while now to feature in my piece here, and I am glad we were able to get together on this so I can share it with you here.

“I don’t remember ever not singing. My dad and mom were both great singers and performed in family groups as children; in fact, they met and became acquainted at gospel singing shows. We would always sing while working or anytime we were together. I had five siblings so all vocal parts were covered. I guess what hooked me on performing personally was The Beatles. I was ten years old when The Beatles had been in America for three years and people, especially the kids, were excited by the music and image they projected.

“Of course we always sang in church and it (singing) was a normal part of life as long as I can remember. I first started playing when I was about 12 years old. I liked the singer/songwriters of the

“Over the years, I’ve had all kinds of jobs, but none have been as consistent as music.”

time. The Beatles, John Prine, John Denver, CCR, Melanie Safka, Peter Paul & Mary all were artists that helped shape me. Later, I was drawn more to James Taylor and Harry Chapin. My cousin, Larry, was into CCR and showed me a few guitar licks from their songs.”

Even though Dave conjures up so many feelings that are most related to old school country music, many of his influences are more folksy or alternative. The same is true for me, even different rock and roll influences creep into my songs when I play.

“It was in college that I started playing for real, meaning, I was getting paid to do it. I had a Bluegrass trio with college friends and we had a recurring gig at a little bar/restaurant just off the campus of Middle Tennessee State University. The initial deal was we got $25 a piece, a submarine sandwich, and all the draft beer we wanted. After a couple of gigs, our employer renegotiated our deal minus the beer. That was my first paying gig.”

“Over the years, I’ve had all kinds of jobs, but none have been as consistent as music. I played all through college and the Air Force— the latter allowed me to play in Europe and all over Texas. Jobs have come and gone, but the music is always there. The Air Force sent me to Austin just as the Outlaw movement in country music with Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings was getting started, so that was when it

“I lived in Austin when Armadillo World Headquarters was operating and you could see Willie and Stevie Ray Vaughn playing in the small clubs. That’s when I really got interested in the craft of songwriting. When you would see the audience just hang on every word the performer was singing, that was real. I walked into one of our regular little haunts down on Congress Avenue one time and saw Waylon Jenning, David Allan Coe, and Townes Van Zandt picking

and swapping songs in the corner mid-day totally unannounced!”

Like Dave, at a young age, I had the realization that the songwriting itself was the lifeblood of the music. Not the sounds the instrument made, but the composition on paper of how the song would feel and what it was meant to say. Along with the artists mentioned earlier and the trio just above, Kemp also talks more about how James Taylor, John Prine, Merle Haggard, and writers Gary Burr and Bob McDill impacted him.

In talking about the ups and downs of this path in life, Dave continues, “Challenges in a music career are many. I think the most difficult thing is being away from home while your children are growing up. I was on the road for an extended amount of time when my first child was 18 months old and he didn’t know me when I came home. That was the last time I did that.”

“I’m retired from all those other jobs now, so I play music exclusively and enjoy it even more than I ever have before. I work on my Ranchita outside of Bandera and do woodworking as a hobby and mental health.”

In talking more with Dave about his life and some things folks may not know about him, he shared, “I hope my life demonstrates to people I meet that I am a follower of Jesus Christ most of all. And when I close my eyes when I sing, I’m just watching the video in my mind. I wear a big cowboy handlebar mustache, so folks naturally assume I’m a Texan. Though I was born and raised in Tennessee, I got here as quickly as I could.”

Do yourself a favor, and watch for Dave Kemp’s name playing around the Texas Hill Country. He’s a great man and musician, and your ears and heart will thank you for the fact you got out to hear him play and sing.

shooting range, ATVs and of course horseback riding. “We don’t offer the typical trail ride where you get on a horse and follow in a single file line,” said Patrick Moellendorf, owner of Tres Molinos. “In fact, our Ranch Rides are very popular because our guests get to have a true ranch experience. They help us work the livestock and doctor the animals if needed. They get to be a part of life on the ranch.”

“Our ATV rides are very similar. Rather than a trail you have to stay on, guests get to ride around on 125 acres. We even give them a bucket of feed and they can drive around and interact with the animals we have on the ranch. They have a lot of fun,” added Patrick.

Guests can choose to simply come for the day or pack their bags and stay in Tres Molinos’ luxury accommodations. Each unit offers a kitchen and continued on page 18

STAY, PLAY & GET AWAY

Tres Molinos Hill Country Ranch and Resort offers its guests a relaxing ranch experience that is sure to calm the senses and restore the soul. Guests have the opportunity to leave behind the hustle and bustle of daily life while they spend their days in the peaceful atmosphere of an almost 100-yearold family ranch, turned hill country resort.

A stay at Tres Molinos includes tons of outdoor fun! There is hiking, fishing, archery, hunting, a

photos by Brie Smith - @wella_fox

Ranch History

Tres Molinos Ranch is built on a family ranch in Harper,Texas.The Ranch has been in the family and used as a homestead for close to 100 years. In 2024, the ranch will be eligible to qualify for Historic designation when it officially turns100 years old. In 2017, Patrick Moellendorf began building a new house, the Events Center and B&B of Tres Molinos Ranch & Resort. He named the entry road after his late grandmother Wanda, who he has always thought highly of.

Story has it that Wanda’s grandfather, Klaehn came over directly from Germany in 1893, following shortly after a friend, Mr. Filter, who brought four daughters with him. Grandfather Klaehn settled near the Filters and those girls were mighty industrious… baking bread, keeping house and washing clothes. Although 20 years older than those girls. He picked one that “qualified”, married her and they had nine children. Wanda’s father was the oldest boy. Grandfather Klaen was industrious in his own right, for in 1899 he purchased a little over 200 acres and then another parcel of 365 acres in 1901. After that, in 1924 he purchased 320 acres (current game reserve) and 640 acres in Harper.

Wanda grew up on that land. Her father, Karl Klaehn, paid $9,000 for the one section (640 acres is one section) from his father in 1929 (Tres Molinos). He had married Wanda’s mother in 1926. It was raw land and he cleared it and built a barn and house and began working the land. It was mostly “sheep and goat” country.

Wanda had two siblings and they all had chores to do after walking home each evening from school. They grew vegetable gardens for their food “right over there behind the old house”.

Cabbage, beets, okra, beans and of course tomatoes. Irish potatoes were planted in the field and they planted crops to feed their animals as well.There weren’t many deer back in those days in this part of the country so they weren’t worried much about deer eating up the gardens. She remembered turkey being plentiful back then though.

Part of the chores included taking care of the goats they raised and when the nannies came up with their newborn “kid” in tow, they’d use paint to mark numbers on the nannie and matching kid. If the “kid” tried to nurse and a “nannie” wouldn’t let it, then they knew it was not the “kids” mother and they had to go looking for the mother. Although not worried with coyotes in this part of the country back in those days, they knew the nannie might yet be continued on page 18

Patrick, Wanda and David Moellendorf

continued from page 17

can sleep up to four people. Whether you choose to stay in the Urban Cowboy, Hill Country Glam or the Texas Farmhouse, you will not be disappointed! RV hookups and camp sites are also available.

The onsite restaurant is open for dinner on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings and brunch is offered on Saturday and Sunday. Brunch is “drop in”, however be sure to call ahead for dinner as reservations are required.

There is also a stunning rock indoor/outdoor event center available for special events including weddings, corporate events, birthday parties and family reunions. The ranch also holds fun equestrian events such as sortings, round robbins and team pennings in the TM Arena. Concerts and special events are even held at the ranch from time to time and always offer up a fun-filled time.

continued from page 17

in trouble or disoriented and could not be left to wander around. They would place the “kids” in those “old traps over by the old house across the road”. They still exist and are in use today.

They did have milk cows and Wanda recalls that milk equated to “money”. They used a hand cranked “milk separator”. They made the cheese, butter, and cottage cheese. Her father and her brother used a combine to work fields of wheat and oats. They shelled corn with a hand crank sheller. Then her father bought a corn sheller.

Wanda met her husband (Patrick’s grandfather Moellendorf) when she was 13 yrs old. The “Moellendorf Boys” would go around shearing sheep for ranchers and they came to the ranch at that time to shear Mr. Klaehn’s sheep. Wanda would tell stories of how they would feed the workers lunch, most likely one of the older hens that didn’t lay any more. They did include fresh vegetables from their garden. She was in charge of cleaning up the wool (Mohair) and keeping it out of the way while the boys were shearing the sheep. As she bent over to gather some Mohair off the floor, young Moellendorf whacked her on the behind with the heavy shearing handle “and that was that!” she would say. They’d attend dances in Luckenbach, Spring Creek, and Caines City.They weren’t allowed to go to Mason or London dance halls. After five years of dating and as they became “of age”, they married and started their own family.

Doss Rd or 783 that you see right here at Tres Molinos, was only a one lane dirt road until the 50’s. Her father had the Doss-Harper mail route in the 40’s and 50’s and drove an old Model A car, no rumble seat. There were many flat tires and a lot of gates and this was before there were any cattle guards. Wanda believed that electricity brought in around 193536 was probably the biggest change in her lifetime, around World War II. There was a bus of sorts; the seats weren’t like today. No heat, no air conditioning and pretty much “raggledy-shaggle” bus with seats lined along the outer walls and one row down the center. Wanda was five years old when they sent her off to school. They had 1st and 2nd grade students together at the old “pocket school”. She was in 3rd grade when the school later consolidated to Harper School.

Wanda’s mother died before her father did. In 1975 her father’s health was failing and he gift deeded property to Wanda and her two siblings.

Wanda’s son, David Moellendorf is now the Tres Molinos Ranch Consultant. His son, Patrick Moellendorf, is the current owner of Tres Molinos Ranch & Resort.

We focus on a high-quality experience with books that appeal to all readers. Having a wide range of topics and an eclectic mixture in all areas is a point of pride for us. We want to both provide the books our customers are seeking and expose them to books that will intrigue them. To this end we seek to engage with our customers on what they read and the topics that interest them. And if we don’t have something you want, we can get it.

Salt is the spice of life. Just a small sprinkle can easily turn a bland, boring dish into something delightfully tasty! And if you think plain ol’ table salt is great, just wait until you try the culinary creations offered by Texas Salt Co. – they’re gonna knock your socks off!

Daniel and Andrew, owners of Texas Salt Co., started the company a few months before the pandemic hit in March of 2020. The pair have a huge respect for individual creativity and share a passion for both creating things and opportunities. Over the years, they would handmake or handcraft Christmas gifts for their family and friends. They have made everything from leather candles, wine, terrariums, soaps and even carved wooden candle holders. It was in October of 2019 that they decided that year they would make smoked salts.

Daniel and Andrew made two salts: a simple mesquite and what would become their renowned, award-winning signature Cowboy Salt – which has now been trademarked for its excellence and uniqueness. The salts were a hit among their family and friends! “We received all sorts of compliments on the flavor and aroma of the salts. Everyone wanted to know how we made them and what was our method, but we decided to keep that secret to ourselves,” said Andrew. “It was then that we knew our product had huge potential.”

“We spent the next year perfecting our methods, recipes and brand,” said Daniel. In late 2021, Texas Salt Co. launched its array

of smoked salts. Since then, the new product ideas just keep coming and they have launched several different lines including one-of-akind smoked pepper infused salts, cocktail salts, smoked cracked peppercorn and their most recent beer salts. Currently they offer 45 different flavors of salts and fifteen varieties of peppercorns that include the basics to the hard-to-find varieties. They even offer Habanero, Ghost, and Scorpion Dried Pepper Pods.

The products from Texas Salt Co. are cold smoked with real Texas hardwoods – no pellets. The salt used is kosher flake sea salt that is all-natural and produced from the crisp, clean waters of the Pacific Ocean and contains the least amount of salinity. According to Andrew, “We have spent copious amounts of time selecting the perfect salt for our smoked salt varietals. The salt crystals are shaped like small, hollow pyramids enabling us to capture the most smoke flavor possible.” The salt used is never refined, enabling Texas Salt Co. to retain its natural trace minerals, with zero additives or chemical processing. There are no fillers or anticaking agents. It is truly an all-natural, organic compliant, and allergen free product.

Texas Salt Co. also offers a Travel Series. Most of the salts in this collection are harvested from different areas of the world

and allow you to travel the globe without leaving home while you explore salts from Africa to New Zealand!

They also offer Smoked Salts, Salts with Heat, Culinary Salts, Gourmet Salts and Pure Salt. According to Daniel, “We smoke all of our salt for up to seven days, depending on the wood, to give you the best flavor in the smallest pinch of salt. When you open a jar of smoked salts, you will be amazed by the smell. These salts are a must try. Our Salts with Heat range from mild like our Chile Lime Smoked Salt, our version of Tajin smoked over pecan wood, to burning hot like our Scorching Scorpion Smoked Salt. Our Salts with Heat are cold smoked over Texas pecan wood to give it an extra smoky heat flavor that you won’t forget.”

Their award-winning Cowboy Salt is cold smoked over their proprietary hardwood for nearly a week for maximum exposure. They generously add garlic and fresh rosemary to really bring out the complexity of this special blend. Its essence upon opening is superb. When used as a finishing salt it tends to bring that smoky sweetness out in almost any dish. This specialty salt goes great with really anything, whether it be poultry, pork, beef,

continued on page 22

award Winning Salt

Their award-winning Cowboy Salt is cold smoked over their proprietary hardwood for nearly a week for maximum exposure. They generously add garlic and fresh rosemary to really bring out the complexity of this special blend.

continued from page 21

even seafood and lamb.

Currently, Texas Salt Co. is producing about 120 pounds of product per week in four custom built smokers that run 24-hours a day. They plan to increase production by opening a manufacturing facility in Bandera that they will begin construction on in April. “Once this is up and running, we will be able to scale to about 500 pounds of product per week.”

Looking forward, Daniel and Andrew have big plans in store. They will be introducing a beef jerky like product, Biltong, which will be available in two flavors, seasoned with Texas Salt Co. products of course! They also have a Cowboy Butter they will be bringing to market soon and plans for a cookbook are in the works.

The Texas Salt Co. products are available at their beautiful storefront, located at 206 Main Street in Bandera. They also have products in the The Shoppes at 222 in Boerne, inside Belle & Union in San Antonio and at Beef & Bones Meat Market in Kingsville. You can shop directly from their website as well. TEXASSALTCO.COM

March 2nd is

texans are friendly

Texas’ name originated from the Caddo Indian word “teycha,” which means friends or allies. The early Spanish transcribed it as “tejas” which would become Texas. Still today our state motto is “Friendship” which accurately represents the southern hospitality we are well known for.

TEXAS INDEPENDENCE DAY

everything is bigger in texas

As the 2nd largest state in both area and population, Texas covers 268,596 square miles and is home to approx 30 million people. We also have the countries largest capital building & are home to the highest speed limit in the US – 85 mph!

This date marks the day the Republic of Texas was born in 1836. While Texas has been part of the United States for over 175 years, leave it to Texans to still celebrate this day. That being said, we didn’t want to miss the chance to celebrate all month long by sharing some fun things about our great Lone Star State!

texas inventions

texas has 8 state animals

Once again, Texas says “go big or go home”! Why have one state animal when you could have eight?! These include the Northern Mockingbird, the Nine-banded Armadillo, the Texas Longhorn, the Mexican Free-Tailed Bat, the Blue Lacy, the Texas Horned Lizard, the Monarch Butterfly, and the Guadalupe Bass.

You can thank your fellow Texans for coming up with these inventions: Dr. Pepper, Handheld Calculators, Liquid Paper, 3-D Printing, Breast Implants, Frozen Margaritas, Shiner Beer, Ruby Red Grapefruits & Fritos –just to name a few!

Calendar of Events

Bandera

March 4 - March 27 Cowboys On Main

On Saturdays, find free cowboy fun in downtown Bandera with activities that can include a chuckwagon storyteller, hopping on a saddle-broke longhorn, or a ride in a horse-drawn wagon for a tour of Bandera. Gunfighter reenactment shows take place twice a day. banderabusiness.com

March 7-11 Bandera Fiber and Arts Week

THE SHEEP WALK RANCH, 5305 SH 173 NORTH

Celebrating Texas wool, mohair, and alpaca, Bandera Fiber and and Arts Week offers shearing days, classes, vendors, a field trip, and other activities.

March 7 Bandera Market Day

This arts and crafts vendor market is set up along Main Street and runs from morning till late afternoon. banderabusiness.com

March 7 Cowboy Opry

SILVER SAGE, 803 BUCK CREEK

See some Grand Ole Opry-style entertainment and enjoy light refreshments and door prizes. silversage.org

March 10-11 Bandera Fiber and Arts Festival

THE SHEEP WALK RANCH, 5305 SH 173 NORTH

The Bandera Fiber and and Arts Festival is the capstone of the Bandera Fiber and Arts Week, with live music and vendors. banderafiberandarts.com

March 16 Third Thursday Cowboy Camp with Lew Peterbaugh

BANDERA BEVERAGE BARN, 1407 SH 16 NORTH

Bring your guitar to play along, or simply come to listen. Pickers who play cowboy, Texas, or Western swing music are welcome to sit in. banderacowboycapital.com

March 18 Ham Rodeo

MANSFIELD PARK, 2886 SH 16 NORTH

The Bandera Wranglers, an all-volunteer nonprofit, hosts this annual rodeo that features vendors, wild hogs, barbecue, a concert, and interactive activities. facebook.com/events/325724846434126

March 23-26 Thunder in the Hill Country

MANSFIELD PARK, 2886 SH 16 NORTH

Come celebrate the 21st annual Thunder in the Hill Country, an event held at Bandera’s Mansfield Park that consists of tent camping, a poker run, vendors, food, field events, music all day Friday and Saturday, a bike show, tattoo contest, and other activities. bikerralliesoftexas.com

March 25 Ranching Heritage Day

HILL COUNTRY STATE NATURAL AREA, 10600

BANDERA CREEK ROAD

Celebrate ranching life by visiting with exhibitors, making

crafts, playing games, and viewing demonstrations. Stop by to learn about and experience some of the many facets of ranching history and culture. tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/hill-country

March 26 Frontier Times Fourth Sunday Jamboree FRONTIER TIMES MUSEUM, 510 13TH ST.

The Frontier Times Museum presents this jamboree on the fourth Sunday of each month. The event includes live music, storytelling, and fun for all ages. frontiertimesmuseum.org

Boerne

Every Friday & Saturday Night Tapatio Springs Hill Country Resort SINGER/SONGWRITER SERIES

1 RESORT WAY 6:30pm to 10:30pm at La Cascada Table & Bar

Kick back at our La Cascada Table & Bar and enjoy pure Texas fare, a refreshing beverage, and live music from talented artists Friday and Saturday evenings.

Live Music at Dog & Pony Grill

1481 S. MAIN – BOERNE

Weekends in March – See Ad on Page 2 for full schedule

March 4-May 27

A Day at the Farm and Farmers Market HISTORIC HERFF FARM, 33 HERFF ROAD

The Farmers Market at the Herff Farm is an open-air farmers market open every Saturday morning on the historic Herff Farm. Hike the trails, shop in the open air, get gardening inspiration, take classes on growing your food, help the Cibolo Center for Conservation maintain the land through volunteer service projects, or get new recipe ideas. cibolo.org

March 11-12 Market Days

MAIN PLAZA, 100 N. MAIN ST.

On the second weekend of each month, hundreds of festive booths display everything from collectibles and remembrances of the past to modern innovations that bring a smile of wonder to those who stroll past. boernemarketdays.com/boerne.html

March 11, 25; April 8, 22; May 13, 27

Bluegrass Jam at the AgriCultural THE AGRICULTURAL MUSEUM AND ARTS CENTER, 102 CITY PARK ROAD

Every second and fourth Saturday of the month, bring your instrument and play along or just come to listen to the Bluegrass Jam. theagricultural.org/bluegrass-jams

March 11, 25; April 8, 22; May 13, 27

Kuhlmann-King Museum Tour and Programs

KUHLMANN-KING MUSEUM, 402 E. BLANCO ROAD

Every second and fourth Saturday of the month, the Kuhlmann-King house gives the public the opportunity to step back in time to see what a historic Boerne home looked like “way back when.” Monthly events and themes vary. facebook.com/kuhlmannkinghouse

March 18 Music in the Cave: Spring Equinox CAVE WITHOUT A NAME THRONE ROOM, 325 KREUTZBERG ROAD

Enjoy an evening of contemporary acoustic music, soaring vocal harmonies, and a percussive tribal/world-beat vibe performed on an unusual mix of ancient and modern instruments, all focused on the theme of the Spring Equinox as a time of rebirth and renewed energy. Some of this concert is performed in total darkness, illuminated by periods of flickering candlelight, providing a visually rich setting and mesmerizing listening environment. cavewithoutaname.com

March 24 The Peking Acrobats BOERNE CHAMPION AUDITORIUM, 201 CHARGER BLVD.

Boerne Performing Arts presents the Peking Acrobats, who astound and amuse in a performance that epitomizes family fun. In an all-new production, they are joined by members of the Shanghai Circus and perform daring acrobatics with grace, strength, and skill. boerneperformingarts.com

Comfort

March 11

Second Saturdays at America Reclaimed AMERICA RECLAIMED, 810 AVENUE A

Come shop reclaimed lumber, antiques, vintage signs, custom furniture & more. Live Music! Complimentary Adult Beverages! And lots of fun! Americareclaimed.co

Fredericksburg

March 2

Enchanted Rock 45th Birthday Celebration

ENCHANTED ROCK STATE NATURAL AREA, 18 MILES NORTH ON RANCH ROAD 965

March 2 marks 45 years since Enchanted Rock became a State Natural Area, and this is one of the many 100-anniversary celebrations for Texas State Parks this year. Guarantee entry by reserving a free day pass up to one month before this special event. Proposed festivities include a fair-type event with area volunteers and interpreters showcasing different activities including backyard bass fishing, birding, skins and skulls, water colour, atlatl, etc.

tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/enchanted-rock/park_events

March 3-5 “Tenderly:

The Rosemary Clooney Musical”

STEVE W. SHEPHERD THEATER, 1668 US 87 SOUTH

Fredericksburg Theater Company presents this

performance by Texas Repertory Theatre of “Tenderly,” a fresh, remarkably personal, and poignant picture of the woman whose unparalleled talent and unbridled personality made her an American musical legend. fredericksburgtheater.org

March 17-19 Trade Days

FREDERICKSBURG TRADE DAYS, 355 SUNDAY FARMS LANE

Shop more than 350 vendors in seven barns and acres of antiques, collectibles, tools, crafts, shabby chic, primitives, ranch furniture, hunting accessories, candles, unique clothing, jewelry, food, and other items. fbgtradedays.com

March 18 Hill Country Indian Artifact Show

LADY BIRD JOHNSON MUNICIPAL PARK, 432 LADY BIRD DRIVE

Featuring a wide variety of some of the finest Native American artifacts from Texas and the United States, the show items include arrowheads, pottery, beads, cases, and books. Plus, there are door prizes and food is available for purchase. hillcountryindianartifacts.com

March 18

Mud Dauber Festival and Chili Cookoff

LUCKENBACH TEXAS, 412 LUCKENBACH TOWN LOOP

Named in honor of the pesky insect, this open chili cookoff and live music festival shows why Luckenbach has some of the best mud in the universe. luckenbachtexas.com

March 19 Rob Landes in Concert

FREDERICKSBURG UNITED METHODIST

CHURCH, 1800 N. LLANO ST.

Fredericksburg Music Club presents Rob Landes, a native Houstonian who is widely known as a pianist, organist, harpist, arranger, conductor, and published composer. fredericksburgmusicclub.com

March 25 Wanderlust 13.1, 10K, and 5K

MARKETPLATZ SQUARE, 126 W. MAIN ST. Run a half marathon, 10K, or 5K through beautiful Fredericksburg in Hill Country. Half marathon runners get to tackle the famous Crabapple Road, which has great views and rolling hills in one large loop. All runners start at Marktplatz (Market Square) in the heart of Fredericksburg. scallywompus.com

March 27-April 21 Texas Hill Country Wineries’ Wine and Wildflower Journey

VARIOUS LOCATIONS

Get tickets online to receive full complimentary tastings and wine discounts at dozens of participating wineries on this self-guided tour. texaswinetrail.com

March 31-April 2

Texas Vintage Motorcycle Fandango

GILLESPIE COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS, 530 FAIR DRIVE

Known as the “best little vintage bike event in Texas,” the Texas Fandango is a vintage swap meet and bike show with vintage races all rolled into one fun-packed weekend. thetexasfandango.com

Johnson City

March 25-27 Market Days

DOWNTOWN, CITY PARK, US 290 WEST,

BETWEEN NUGENT STREET AND AVENUE G

Held the fourth weekend of the month, this open-air market features vendors and artisans selling handmade or locally produced products in the heart of Texas wine country. johnsoncitytexas.info

Kerrville

March 4 Classical Music Festival

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 800 JEFFERSON ST.

The Hill Country Chorale, an entity of the Hill Country Vocal Arts Society, which serves as a dynamic resource through which the vocal arts are introduced, networked, maintained, and performed in the Texas Hill Country, presents its Classical Music Festival. hillcountrychorale.org

March 4 Hill Country Cluster of Dogs Show

KERR COUNTY HILL COUNTRY YOUTH

EVENT CENTER, 3785 SH 27

Almost 700 dogs compete in different classes at this free and family-friendly event that also has vendors and food trucks. onofrio.com

March 5 Kerr County Market Days and Hill Country Swap Meet

KERR COUNTY HILL COUNTRY YOUTH EVENT CENTER, 3785 SH 27 Market Days continues to feature artists and crafters bringing their own original handcrafted items. Hill Country Swap Meet is a community garage sale/flea market. kerrmarketdays.org

March 9-April 8 Art Exhibits

KERR ARTS AND CULTURAL CENTER, 228 EARL GARRETT ST.

Tuesday through Saturday, visit the Kerr Arts and Cultural Center for three separate art exhibits: “Tierra Linda Ranch and the Texas Hill Country” by photographer SJ Derby, “Road Trip: One Woman Show” by Catherine Massaro, and “The World of NONS: Spatial/Surreal Environs” with the art of HC “Hardy” Lewis, featuring Sadie Roselle. An artists reception takes place March 18. kacckerrville.com

March 17-19, 24-26, 31; April 1-2 “On Golden Pond”

HILL COUNTRY ARTS FOUNDATION, 120 POINT THEATRE ROAD

The classic American comedic drama is every bit as touching, warm, and witty today as it was when it debuted off-Broadway in 1978. hcaf.com

March 24-April 21 Spring Bling: Fiber and Jewelry Show

HILL COUNTRY ARTS FOUNDATION, 120 POINT THEATRE ROAD

This exhibit features fiber art and jewelry by artists from across Texas. hcaf.com

March 25 Disc Golf Tournament

KERRVILLE-SCHREINER PARK, 2385 BANDERA HWY.

Kerrville Parks and Recreation Department and Schreiner University are collaborating on a competitive morning for the community. All 18 holes of disc golf are played and everyone is responsible for keeping another person’s score as well as their own. kerrvilletx.gov

March 25 ViVA Trio

CAILLOUX THEATER, 910 MAIN ST.

This internationally touring trio of sopranos cross over between classical and pop music, with vocal fireworks, a charismatic stage presence, lush harmonies, designer gowns, and music that promises to enchant audiences. caillouxperformingarts.com

March 31 Camerata San Antonio in Concert

FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH, 800 JEFFERSON ST.

Grammy-nominated Camerata San Antonio is a flexible classical chamber music ensemble serving San Antonio and the surrounding Hill Country. This performance, titled “Quartets,” features Mozart’s String Quartet in A Major, K. 464; Bacewicz’s String Quartet No. 4; and Beethoven’s String Quartet in E-flat Major, Op. 74 “Harp.” cameratasa.org

March 31 A Conversation with the Actors of “Napoleon Dynamite”

THE ARCADIA LIVE THEATER, 717 WATER ST. Jon Heder, Efren Ramirez, and Jon Gries, the actors who played Napoleon Dynamite, Pedro, and Uncle Rico, discuss the cult classic at this screening, which includes a special meet-and-greet. thearcadialive.org

March 31 Concerts by the River

LOUISE HAYS PARK, 202 THOMPSON DRIVE

Pack your lawn chairs and picnic blankets and come out to the park to enjoy free concerts along the banks of the beautiful Guadalupe River. kerrvilletx.gov

New Braunfels

March 2

Texas Independence Day Celebration

GRUENE HISTORIC DISTRICT, 1601 HUNTER ROAD

To celebrate the 187th anniversary of Texas independence, Gruene Historic District is throwing a Texas-size celebration with special offers and live music. gruenetexas.com

March 3-May 26

Friday Afternoon Club at Gruene Hall

GRUENE HALL, 1281 GRUENE ROAD

This Gruene Hall tradition, now in its 25th year, is where hipsters, oldsters, suits, locals, and drifters mix it up to start their weekend. This quintessential Friday happy hour offers great beer prices, prize giveaways, and the best in Texas tunes broadcast live by KNBT 92.1 FM Radio New Braunfels. There’s even a very special guest interview each week. gruenehall.com

March 4 Kinderschuhe 5K Run and Walk

GRUENE HISTORIC DISTRICT, 1601 HUNTER ROAD

The proceeds for this 5K run and walk help Communities In Schools purchase shoes for low-income school children. The event is open to participants of all ages. nbu5k.com

March 14 Two Ton Tuesdays Spring Break Show

GRUENE HALL, 1281 GRUENE ROAD

If you haven’t felt the energy of Two Tons live, grab your dancing partner and get ready for a rockin’ night. The band takes the stage at 8:30 p.m. gruenehall.com

March 14 Swing Dance Lessons

GRUENE HALL, 1281 GRUENE ROAD

Learn simple, fun East Coast Swing steps in this one-hour class before the Two Ton Tuesday show at Gruene Hall. This class is perfect for beginners or those wanting to polish their wraps, tunnels, turns, and spins. gruenehall.com

March 16 Come and Taste It: Meet Texas’ Best Winemakers

THE GRAPEVINE, 1612 HUNTER ROAD

On the third Thursday of each month (except January), come to The Grapevine and taste some of Texas’ best wines and craft beer straight from the winemakers and brewers. This monthly event features complimentary tastings and live music in the heart of Gruene Historic District. grapevineingruene.com

March 18-19 Old Gruene Market Days

GRUENE HISTORIC DISTRICT, 1724 HUNTER ROAD

Nearly 100 vendors offer uniquely crafted items and packaged Texas foods at this monthly market. gruenemarketdays.com

March 25 Hayes Carll in Concert

GRUENE HALL, 1281 GRUENE ROAD

Musician Hayes Carll exists in a space of his own, informed by John Prine, Tom Waits, and Bob Dylan but also by Travis, Kenny Rogers, and Hank Williams Jr. He’s been nominated for two Americana Music Awards and a Grammy for Best Country Song, and has won multiple Austin Music Awards. gruenehall.com

MOORE ON ART:

Exotic ANIMALS

by Deva Moore

Art sharpens our senses and pleases our souls. We enjoy art on canvas, paper, cloth…in clay, stone and many other media choices. Art is found liberally in nature and that is where we find this month’s beautiful, graceful, appealing art. Scattered over the state of Texas is art in the form of exotic animals.

To allow the reader to understand what an exotic animal is specifically, one must know that exotic animals are defined as animals not native to Texas or the United States.

Texas is home to many species of exotic animals. While these creatures are fun and enjoyable, one must know what they are doing when owning an

exotic animal. While fun to observe, as with all living creatures, providing proper care is very important. To help us learn more about these majestic animals and their care, this issue we feature Hill Country Exotic Traps and Plastic.

Yes, there is a connection within the name and it should also include the word Professional as these men are ultimate professionals in their

continued on page 28

continued from page 27

business! Bobby Pyle realized his dream of owning, managing, buying, selling, and safely trapping when his dad purchased property in the hill country and gave Bobby free rein to create a safe environment to begin obtaining exotics. Bobby has more than 11 successful years of animal experience and according to him, each day is a joy. Brandon Smith, who shares the love of exotics, teamed up with Bobby and together they are a dynamic team that can do it all! Bobby designed a state-of-the-art trap system that is used to safely trap the exotics to transfer them, relocate them, sell them or any other need in handling these beautiful animal works of art.

Exotics are not handled exactly the same as a domesticated horse, cow or any other hoof livestock. They must be safely restrained for medical or transfer reasons. That requires a true professional who understands safety and concern for the wellbeing of the exotic animal. Many times it is necessary to sedate or dart an animal to ensure the safety of both the animal and the handler. As a result, Bobby and Brandon stay focused on the latest and safest manner to do just that. Transporting exotic animals is not always a simple… ”load up,” but a designed plan to place a wild animal into an unknown (to the animal) trailer for traveling. One cannot

Bobby designed a state-of-the-art trap system that is used to safely trap the exotics to transfer them, relocate them, sell them or any other need in handling these beautiful animal works of art.

simply back the trailer into a pasture and “herd” one or multiple animals into it. This is where the trap and their knowledge comes into play.

For many years traps have been utilized in collecting exotic animals. Bobby was not satisfied with the security or safety for the animals in traditional traps on the market. He worked with his dad (who is in the plastics business) to create and market a trap that is inviting and safe to secure these exotic animals. The trap is designed to quickly and safely confine the animals for capture. There is an elaborate and secure channel system to separate, funnel and load the animals at that point.

There is a movement that has been growing for several years in the United States, and for my purpose, Texas. Farmers and ranchers (large and small) have begun to enhance their landscape with the addition of exotic animals – a form of art if you will. One can drive by many parcels of land and see animals once seen only in zoos. Zebra, rhino, buffalo, fallow deer, giraffe, gemsbock, antelope, various species of sheep, goats, wildebeest, hogs/pigs, black buck, elk, addax, lechwe, oryx, gnu, impala, kudu, nyala, springbok… and the list goes on, but you get the picture.

The art of exotic animals is quite extensive and impressive! And within many of these species there is variety! For one instance, I was amazed to learn that there are different types of buffalo. A buffalo is a majestic, beautiful animal but one should not expect a Cape buffalo demeanor to be conducive to being gentle at all. Yet the more common brown buffalo can be the gentler choice. No matter what type of wild animal, Bobby and Brandon remind us to always respect the strength and ability of all animals. The focus is always on “wild”.

Bobby and Brandon have a combined experience of more than 30 years of working with animals and have been focusing on exotic art animals for over 20 years. Hill Country Exotic Traps and Plastic strives to maintain quality and ensure their customers can rely on their expertise. If they do not immediately have an answer for a question then they will get it quickly and concisely! Hill Country Exotics Traps and Plastics can adjust to most any requirement easily and quickly. They are able to assess a situation requirement and successfully adjust their method to provide a safe and secure trap for any animal and then transport with the same safety and security. They have employed netting, darting or tranquilizing, trapping or on occasion just walking the animal into the transport vehicle. They have successfully transported all types of animals. I was entertained by the information that when they transport giraffe they must secure a path of least aerial obstacles. So that is what the measurements on bridges are for…lol!

Most exotic animals require special handling and Bobby and Brandon have the skills and knowledge to provide an excellent service for you. I inquired about which exotic is the most difficult to trap and they shared that the Sable is an extremely difficult one. Their

knowledge astounds me especially when they told me that trapping an exotic for any reason must be quick and immediate attention is necessary for many reasons. The exotic must not be allowed to remain in trap very long as too many of same sex will erupt in a competition of who is bigger, stronger or well…who is most dangerous. Bobby told me that if left too long, one could return to a trap of one…and that one had eliminated his competition! Education is a key factor in the art of exotics!

Bobby and Brandon are focused on conservation of exotic animals. They both have enjoyed harvesting over the years, but strongly encourage conservation. They enjoy the enhanced landscape a group of exotic animal art brings to a piece of land. It is important to protect the resources with ensuring strong genetics and a good bloodline for future generations of animal security.

Hill Country Exotic Traps and Plastics is a family owned and operated company. They employ a complete staff to meet all needs of their operation from office to exotic maintenance, to ranch operations.

They are proud to maintain a reputation of highest excellence in everything they do!

The exotic animal market is growing consistently and it is important that one seek out experience and quality if looking to start your own collection. Bobby and Brandon can also assist in management of predators on your ranch. There is a list of predators who can cause damage, danger or destruction and an established professional can make a welcome addition to ranch management.

The art of Exotic Animals is within reach. Enhance your ranch landscape with a majestic, beautiful, exotic animal art. The benefits are remarkable and it allows one to enjoy the beauty and grace of nature.

“SLEEP WHEN YOU’RE ALIVE”

by Adam Soyars

“I’ll sleep when I’m dead.” We have all heard it. Heck, we’ve all probably used it. Most of us have worn it like a badge of honor that deserved adoration.

I want to let you in on a secret: that cultural adage is dead. Ironically, it passed in its sleep, and here is what put it in the grave: obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, stroke, stress, Alzheimer’s Disease, dementia, cancer, anger, and depression.

In healthcare, especially when viewed through a functional medicine lens, the flames of chronic disease are almost always ignited by lifestyle and habit. Sleep is one lever that, when pulled, will positively influence virtually every pillar of health.

Sleep is a biological necessity. My goal is to convince you that sleep is worth prioritizing and to hold it sacred. Improving your sleep quality will improve your life now and into your future.

LET’S LEARN A LITTLE ABOUT SLEEP.

Circadian Rhythm

This is our personal, internal, 24-hour clock. It designates our sleep-wake timing and is synchronized by daily environmental signals. Circadian rhythm aligns our sleepwake cycles with day (activity) and night (restorative rest). Stable circadian rhythm is essential to health because it coordinates many mental and physical systems throughout the body. [PMID: 26600101].

Our circadian clock is sensitive to and responds to light [3]. Morning light exposure generates alertness and signals the body to be awake and active. During the evening, as natural light fades, circadian rhythm initiates the release of the hormone Melatonin. Melatonin primes our body for sleep. Exposure to light in the evening disrupts Melatonin signaling.

Sleep Drive

Sleep Pressure is a homeostatic mechanism that makes us feel sleepy. It is primarily mediated through a chemical called Adenosine. Throughout the day, Adenosine accumulates in our body and drives the feeling of sleepiness. The act of sleep is a release valve that clears Adenosine from the receptors. With adequate sleep, you wake feeling rested.