2023 Kendall County Wild Game Dinner Magazine

Welcome

Welcome to the 2023 special edition of the Wild Game Dinner magazine! There’s always lots of exciting things happening in our area and we hope you enjoy this year’s edition.

The Wild Game Dinner is the primary fundraiser for the Kendall County Jr. Livestock Association. The money raised through this event is poured back into the county to support our kids through agriculture. When we say, “we do this for the kids”, we want you to know that we put your money to good use!

This past year, KCJLA awarded 22 scholarships totaling $56,500. We provided a $20,000 grant to the 4-H who are sending three judging teams to national competitions. The Hippology Judging Team will compete at the National Western Stock Show in Denver. The Horse Judging Team will compete at the All American Quarter Horse Congress in Ohio, and the Livestock Judging Team competes at the American Royal in Kansas City. We are very proud of these young men and women and wish them well in their upcoming competitions.

Each year, I sing the praises of our cook teams, the backbone of our event. So, this year, let me “preach on”! Our cook teams are made up of family, friends, locals, and some from afar. When you join us at the event, take a minute to meet these folks. They love doing this and always appreciate a little shout out about the good food.

This year, we have a new contest for our cook teams. They will be decorating their sections to earn your vote. Each page of raffle tickets has one ticket that says BEST DÉCOR – COOK TEAM. It’s your job to choose the winner! One lucky cook team will be awarded a grand

WE RELY ON DONATED WILD GAME TO MAKE THIS EVENT A SUCCESS!

If you would like to donate fresh venison for the upcoming Kendall County Wild Game Dinner, please take your field dressed axis deer to Klein Smokehaus in Boerne and tag it WGD!

prize based on the number of tickets they receive. That means you’ll need to buy lots of raffle tickets to support your favorite team!

Last year, we said good-bye to one of our own, PeeWee Spenrath. He spent decades as a director and officer for KCJLA and donated thousands of hours over the years to make sure our annual stock show and sale were a huge success. It’s because of him that we have one of best in the state. When describing him, I use the phrase, “I’ve never not known PeeWee”. For many of us, he and his family are an extension of our own. He was old school and expected everyone to work hard and do their part. He must have coined the phrase “this is for the kids” because he truly spent a lifetime “doing it for the kids”. God bless you. We love you.

Please join us on Saturday, October 21st, at the Kendall County Youth Ag & Equestrian Center located at 648 FM 289, Comfort. Gates open at 4:00 pm and we will begin serving at 5:00 pm! We look forward to seeing you there!

Many Thanks,

Beca Short

WGD Committee Chair KCJLA Director

INTERESTED IN BEING A WILD GAME DINNER SPONSOR?

We have plenty of sponsorship opportunities still available! Contact Beca Short for more information – (210) 316-4297.

guarantee as to, and assumes no responsibility for, the correctness, sufficiency or completeness of such information and recommendations.

Kendall county Junior livestock association board of directors

List of OFFICERS: Joe Lozano – President

Kris Pressler – Vice-President

Wayne Zoeller – Vice-President

Craig Jackson – Treasurer

Emilie Herbst - Co-Treasurer

LIST OF DIRECTORS:

True Support.

We’re proud to be a sponsor of the Kendall County Wild Game Dinner and their goal of raising funds each year to support area youth through scholarships, leadership programs, 4-H, FFA and agriculture related projects. Contributing to a strong future for the communities we serve is a primary goal for Jefferson Bank. We’re proud to call Boerne home.

GOOD TIMES GREAT FOOD &

YTAKE A LOOK AT WHAT OUR COOK TEAMS WILL BE SERVING UP THIS YEAR!

Year after year, the Kendall County Wild Game Dinner draws folks from near and far! They come for the fun times and the consistently GREAT food! With over twenty cook teams serving up everything from fried alligator to wild boar chili verde and axis cooked up just about every way you can think of, this event offers attendees a true wild game feast! “Our cook teams are made up of a host of friends and family that devote their time and energy year after year to prep, prepare and cook all of the fabulous food that this Wild Game Dinner is known for. They are truly the backbone of this event,” said Beca Short, Chair of the Kendall County Wild Game Dinner. The majority of the cook teams are not professionals, just friends of the Kendall County Wild Game Dinner who just so happen to know how to cook and are kind enough to volunteer. Check out a few of the teams that will be cooking up the bison sliders, axis chili and venison fajitas this year!

ROAD KILL GRILLERS

“You kill it, we grill it!” is the slogan for the Road Kill Grillers. This cook team has been grilling up the Wild Game Dinner’s Venison Fajitas since the second year of the event. Comprised of employees of the Kendall County Sherrif’s Office, the Road Kill Grillers love participating in the event because of all of the fun they have. “We look forward to participating in the Wild Game Dinner every year,” said Stacy Auxier. “It is so great to get to come together with our people and just be together, having fun, cooking great food and raising money for local kids!”

When it comes to decor, this cook team goes all out too! According to Stacey, “We have so many funny decorations like Roadkill Helper and Pickled Pig Lips, signs that say things like ‘Food is more fun when killed on the run’, and all of our menu items have a road kill theme.”

Of course, the food really isn’t road kill, but rather some of the finest venison fajitas you have ever tasted. They are so popular that last year they grilled up around 100 pounds of venison!

CEDAR CREEK

This cook team has been grilling up the Bison Sliders for eight years at the Kendall County Wild Game Dinner. Led by Gary and Lori Jaimes, the Cedar Creek Cook Team grilled up 800 sliders last year and are preparing to cook 900 this year. “Our team always changes and grows depending on who is available to help among our friends and family. It is really all hands on deck. Our first year we were absolutely swarmed so we changed up our cook method to be more of an open pit, more like a grill, in order to accomodate cooking so many sliders,” said Gary. Cedar Creek also offers a Salsa Ranch Dip and Jalapeno Jelly to dip the sliders in.

STEHLING & WALKER GARAGE

This will be the Stehling & Walker Garage Cook Team’s third year cooking up the Axis Chili. This team is made up of six to eight members, all which are mainly family. “Beca recruited us to cook for the event and we look forward to it every year,” said Cody Walker. The Axis Chili is Walker’s family recipe and a big hit at the Wild Game Dinner. Last year the team made 35 gallons of chili!

2023 COOK TEAMS & MENU ITEMS

SIP N SHOOTERS

CHICKEN FRIED AXIS

GRILL BILLIES

JALAPENO BACON WRAPPED QUAIL BREAST

GRILL BILLIES II

AXIS PICADILLO & PAZOLE

WHAT THE FORK FRIED FISH

HOHMANN WELDING & SUPPLY

BRISKET TACOS & BEANS

BRENT E MATHISON SIGNATURE CONSTRUCTION ROASTED CORN

PRIME CAPITAL INVESTMENT ADVISORS

AXIS MEATBALLS & AXIS QUESO

PITLICIOUS

WILD BOAR RIBS

CEDAR CREEK

BISON SLIDERS

CHOWBOYS

CRAWFISH PASTA

ROAD KILL GRILLERS

VENISON FAJITAS

GOOD OLE BOYS

AXIS GUISADA

STEHLING & WALKER GARAGE

AXIS CHILI

AGAVE DESIGN STUDIO/ PORK DORKS

WILD BOAR CHILI VERDE

DROPTINE COOKERS

STREET TACOS

EL CAMPO BILLY ETOUFEE

SMOKEN-22

SMOKED TURKEY

YOUNG GUNS

FRIED ALLIGATOR

BOOGS FROMAN, SAUSAGE KING OF LMAO SPRINGS

SAUSAGE WRAPS

KENDALL COUNTY 4-H CLUB

DESSERT

CHURCH LADIES

DESSERTS

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This diverse team of real estate professionals provides a wealth of expertise with highly complex transactions, land and mineral rights, water rights; and local knowledge of all market regions across the state.

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Legacy Broker Group applauds the Kendall County Junior Livestock Association and the Kendall County Wild Game Dinner for their support of local youth in agriculture. We are proud to continue our support as the Presenting Sponsor for the Kendall County Wild Game Dinner!

BLAST FROM THE PAST

We love keeping these time-honored traditions alive...

Thank You to those that submitted these vintage hunting pictures from days gone by!

DINNER

more pics on pg 48

H.C. Seidensticker with grandson Casey Seidensticker.

Photo submitted by Brenda & Charlie Seidensticker

Henry Seidensticker with son, H.C. Seidensticker. Photo submitted by Brenda & Charlie Seidensticker

H.C. “Sonny” Seidensticker

Photo submitted by Brenda & Charlie Seidensticker

(L-R): Kenneth Wood, Roy Marquart, Arlene Marquart, Robert Seidensticker, Genevieve Seidensticker, Bobby Schladoer & Cheryl Schladoer.

Photo submitted by Beca Short

Back Row (L-R): Arlene Marquart, Roy Marquart, Richard Saur, Cheryl Shladoer, Bobby Schladoer, Robert Seidensticker & Kenneth Wood

Front Row: Rosemary and Beans Rausch McKenzie Ranch, Fort Stockton - December 1979

Photo submitted by Beca Short

We Do It FoR tHe KIDs!

This year we awarded 22 scholarships totaling $56,500!

Each year the Kendall County Junior Livestock Association awards scholarships to local graduating seniors. The mission of the KCJLA Agricultural Scholarship Program is to encourage and promote agricultural, horticultural and livestock education and related industrial interests in the young citizens of Kendall County while promoting academic excellence, entrepreneurship and careers in the agricultural industry.

This year’s scholarship winners consist of fifteen outstanding local seniors who were awarded KCJLA Scholarships, Scott Bradley Memorial Scholarships, KCJLA’s Wild Game Dinner Scholarships and the David “Pee Wee” Spenrath Memorial Scholarship.

Class of 2023 Scholarship Recipients

EMILEE BAKER

Boerne High School

KCJLA Scholarship

Emilee is the daughter of Shandy Baker and Shane and Tracy Baker. She will attend Blinn College this fall with hopes of transferring to Texas A&M to pursue a degree in Agricultural Business. Emilee was involved in showing pigs through 4-H for nine years and was on the Junior Board of Directors for two years. She looks forward to learning more in the next chapter to give back to the organization that helped build such a strong foundation in her life. Emilee is thankful for KCJLA and the generosity from the community that will help her achieve her future goals.

MADELINE BARBER

Boerne - Samuel V. Champion High School

KCJLA Scholarship

Kendall County Wild Game Dinner Scholarship

Maddie Barber is the daughter of Travis and Tally Barber. She will attend Texas Tech University this fall to pursue a degree in Elementary Education. Maddie attended Champion High School and was actively involved in FFA and NHS as well as the Kendall County 4H. She loved showing pigs at the county show and at major shows such as San Antonio, San Angelo, Houston, and the State Fair. Maddie is excited to see what the future holds for her and is thankful to KCJLA and the KC Wild Game Dinner for helping her to achieve her goals for the future!

continued on pg 22

2023 RAFFLE TICKETS

This year, event goers wishing to participate in the Raffle will purchase a raffle sheet. Each sheet contains a double stub and 20 bid tickets, all with the same number. Each sheet is valued at $100 ($5 per ticket). You must fill out your name, cell phone, email and deliver the stub to the raffle team immediately. You will KEEP the portion of the stub marked “KEEP ########”. The raffle team will enter your number into the computer system for the drawing. Place your 20 bid tickets in the raffle bucket(s) of your choice. When the raffle begins, we will pull a winning ticket from each bucket and announce the winning number, which coincides with the info in the computer system. You must present your numbered stub to claim your prize!

NEW THIS YEAR!

Raffle Sheet purchase also comes with 1 ticket to vote for the Cook Team with the “Best Decor”!

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Class of 2023 Scholarship Recipients

TRISTAN CRAWFORD

Comfort High School

Kendall County Wild Game Dinner Scholarship

KCJLA Scholarship

David “Pee Wee” Spenrath Memorial Scholarship

Tristan is the son of Jim and Amy Crawford. He will attend Texas Tech University in the fall of 2023 to obtain a degree in petroleum engineering. Throughout his years at Comfort High School, he was involved in football, baseball, FFA, and 4-H. He enjoyed showing pigs at many Texas majors and hunting and fishing during any free time. Tristan is thankful to the KCJLA and Wild Game Dinner Scholarship committee for their generosity to himself and many other kids in the community.

PAIGE GALINDO

Comfort High School

KCJLA Scholarship

Kendall County Wild Game Dinner Scholarship

Paige Galindo is the daughter of Amor and Amanda Galindo. She will be attending Angelo State University in the fall. There she will be studying to become an Ag Teacher. While attending Comfort High School, she was involved in 4-H, FFA and Softball. Paige is excited for what the future holds at Angelo State and grateful to the Wild Game Dinner Committee, as well as the KCJLS Association for helping her accomplish her goals and dreams.

BRADEN KLAERNER

Boerne High School

KCJLA Scholarship

Kendall County Wild Game Dinner Scholarship

Braden is the son of Kevin and Amanda Klaerner. He will attend Tarleton State University this fall with plans to pursue a Bachelors of Business Management. Braden is a graduate of Boerne High School, where he was actively involved in FFA, Football, and NHS. He enjoyed taking on leadership roles as he served for three years on both the KCJLA Junior Board and the Boerne FFA leadership team, his senior year as President. Braden enjoyed showing pigs and building Ag Mechanics Projects. Braden is honored to receive the KCJLA and Kendall County Wild Game Dinner Scholarships.

WYATT KLINGMAN

Boerne High School

Scott Bradley Memorial Scholarship

Wyatt Klingman is the son of Danielle and Coby Klingaman. He went to school at Boerne High School. He was involved in 4-H since he was in 2nd grade all the way through high school. Wyatt showed pigs and steers. He was also involved in the NHS and was the reporter on the Boerne FFA Officer team. He also showed an Ag Mech project with the FFA. Wyatt plans on attending Tarleton State University in pursuit of an Agribusiness degree. He is so thankful for receiving this scholarship, which will help him achieve his goals.

ParadiseEscape to

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Each of these grand adventures are sure to produce a fun-filled week and long-lasting memories. Combining the freedom and space of a private estate with the personalized attention of a professional concierge, Primus Villas offers a unique blend of opulent seclusion and exceptional service that is second to none.

The WGD auction trip that we took to Costa Rica was incredible! The villa we stayed in was beautiful and the activities we booked through Primus Villas were so much fun. There was something for everyone to do the whole time. We will definitely be going back!

– Krista Upham

KEEPING TEXAS BIG, WIDE & OPEN

Concerned that Texas is losing its rural lands faster than any other state in the country, leaders of Texas’ statewide agricultural, wildlife and landowner organizations came together in 2007 to create the Texas Agricultural Land Trust. With a Board of Directors who, as landowners themselves, understand the day-to-day challenges of farming and ranching, TALT promotes the conservation of open space, native wildlife habitats, and natural resources of Texas’ private working lands. TALT, a private non-profit organization, today has partnered with landowners to conserve over 235,000 acres.

Founded by the Texas Farm Bureau, Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raiser Association, and the Texas Wildlife Association, TALT approaches this mission with private landowners seeking to preserve working landscapes with agricultural uses, including farmers, ranchers and sportsman who are committed to conservation and keeping their land in agricultural use through conservation easements.

A conservation easement is a voluntary legal agreement that allows landowners to retain title and management of their property, while forfeiting, donating or selling certain development rights to a land trust. This protects the land from commercial or residential development, preserves habitat, limits subdivision and fragmentation of the land, and allows landowners to ensure the land they love is protected into perpetuity.

Conservation easements provide more than protection to open spaces. Easements often

serve as a financial tool for the landowners as the plan to transition land to future generations, or as they reinvest resources back into their operation. Conservation easements can be donated, purchased, or a combination of both. Easements can be Donated Easements or Purchased Easements. No two conservation easements are exactly alike.

“Contrary to a widespread misconception, it is not a one-size-fits-all contract,” said Chad Ellis, Chief Executive Officer. “TALT and the donating landowner negotiate the terms of the easement to account for the unique character of the land and the goals of the landowner. At TALT, we are open about the process, and can walk you through a variety of options or structures that have worked for the landowners we’ve partnered with over the years.”

TALT understands the unique challenges that face agricultural landowners. They work with landowners to customize a conservation easement to meet the needs of the property and the needs of their agricultural operation. This means landowners can choose to protect all or part of their property. They also have the option to allow for construction of a house, barn,

CREATED BY FARMERS AND RANCHERS FOR FARMERS AND RANCHERS, TALT IS PROUD TO PLAY A ROLE IN CONSERVING PART OF TEXAS’ LEGACY OF WIDE OPEN SPACES.

EASEMENTS OFTEN SERVE AS A FINANCIAL TOOL FOR LANDOWNERS AS THEY PLAN TO TRANSITION LAND TO FUTURE GENERATIONS.

fence, road, or other important agricultural structure. However, there are a few activities that are restricted, including waste sites, commercial sale of water, or resource extraction that significantly disturbs the natural resources being preserved.

By donating a conservation easement to TALT, you forever protect your land and your legacy. But in addition to this security, landowners are able to utilize a number of financial benefits such as Federal Income Tax Deduction and Reduced Estate Tax.

From the initial contact to closing on the conservation easement takes time. Typically the process can range from three to six months, but can take longer for landowners with more complex needs. TALT strives to keep the process transparent, ensuring landowners feel confident and certain in each step before moving forward.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT

WHAT’S AT STAKE?

Texas’ privately-owned farms, ranches and forestlands account for 141.5 million acres, about 82% of the state. From coastal rice fields providing Whooping Crane habitat to Panhandle cattle ranches hosting the Lesser Prairie Chicken, these lands are the state’s richest source of biodiversity. Unfortunately, these lands are at risk. Texas leads states in the loss of rural lands. More than 1.1 million acres of agricultural lands were converted to other uses between 1997 and 2007. This loss has economic, social, and environmental consequences. It threatens Texas’ dominant position as a food producer, its sources of drinking water, and the privately-managed habitat.

WANT

Pee Wee Spenrath The Man I Knew

Iby Amy L. Stehling

I can’t even begin to count how many times I have started this article. When it was mentioned, an article would be written for this year’s Wild Game Dinner publication, my heart swelled. And that the committee wanted to honor someone I had grown to love and admire on the front cover made me even more excited. And what did I go and do, I volunteered to write the article.

Do I write about his time as a director for the Kendall Co. Jr. Livestock Show Association? Do I write about his experiences raising livestock? Do I write about his family? All of these things I knew and most everyone who knew him did as well. So I decided to come from a personal place. A place I hold near and dear to my heart. My own personal experiences, life lessons, and admiration for Pee Wee Spenrath, the man I knew. Integrity. Virtuous. Hard-working. Dedicated. Selfless. These are just a fraction of the words that I would use to describe Uncle Pee Wee. That’s what I had the privilege of calling him. You see, David Wayne “Pee Wee” Spenrath was my husband Jacob’s uncle. His mother’s third brother. One of eight children to Erno (Papa) and Gretchen (Grandma) Spenrath.

I, like many of you, have known him all my life. I can remember as a young girl of maybe six years old seeing him in the dusty old Comfort show barn. That barn was made of wood and love. Built right across from the Comfort Cemetery, it housed all species under one roof the first Saturday of January for years. A restroom that worked when it wanted to. Mostly because it always froze that day, and the pipes just weren't as good as they once were. The best hot chocolate ever made. And every kid’s dream of a concession stand manned by the Comfort 4-H. I remember he would be between the angoras and then make his way over to the pig pens. Chester was his breed of choice. He was all about a good white down ear. And later, we would have many discussions about Chesters versus Durocs. Mainly to see who was going to win that argument on that particular day.

The man had a presence about him. Almost like he commanded attention. I

remember noticing him because he was always working. Most everyone was working back then in the barn. But he was really getting after it. And I noticed how helpful he was with other kids. Not just his nieces and nephews, but anyone who needed help. Typically wearing a chambray Wrangler long sleeve shirt and whatever Comfort FFA cap was circulating that year or the occasional Berhends Feed cap, he would stand propped up against the pen chuckling, sometimes yelling. But I remember most, the chuckle, his inner childhood laugh. For those who didn’t know him, this could mean one of three things…he was legitimately laughing with you, or he was laughing at you because you had said something that he found just downright dumb, or he was about to let you know how the cow ate the cabbage and it was his warning to you. Personally, I experienced all three laughs in my lifetime with him.

We would always make our way up to the Comfort Elementary cafeteria at lunch time during the stock show. There, everyone gathered to have a BBQ lunch and some of the best desserts we would ever eat. And when I say everyone would gather, the whole town showed up. Exhibitors, parents, spectators and townspeople. They all knew at noon on the first Saturday in January where to be. I remember standing in line. I was cold from walking the short way up the hill from the barn to the cafeteria. Uncle Pee Wee was standing behind me. His piercing blue eyes staring right back at me. It was my first year showing in the Comfort Stock show. So you better believe I was decked out. Red ropers with conchos and belt to match. And you can’t forget the conch and bead adorned bandana I wore around my neck. I was stock show ready. I knew who he was, not necessarily having ever met him. But it seemed as though when we were younger, we knew everyone and if we didn’t, we would ask. That chance to meet was the first of many conversations to be had with Uncle Pee Wee.

A deep voice, with a hint of a German accent said, “Little Amy, how goes it?” He was talking to me, and he knew my name. I must admit, I was shy and didn’t reply right away. But then he started talking pigs. He asked me if I still had my Hamp gilt I had shown in the fairs that summer. How did he know about Boots? I let him know that I did but that I was showing Durocs too. Right then and there he tried to convince me to show Chesters. It didn’t work, but we had a nice conversation about showing and he reminded me that it was a lot of hard work, but it’s worth it. And he didn’t forget to add that I shouldn’t make my brother do all the work. I needed to put in the work too. “Yes sir. Yes sir.” I believe that was the extent of my communication back to him.

Every once and a while, between playing with friends in the parking lot at the show barn or sitting in the high rise stands watching other species being shown, I would notice him making his way through the barn. As mentioned, he was always helping. Assisting in the pens, grooming animals, loading animals, wrangling a run away pig (back in the day, they weren’t as trained as they are now). He was always there to lend a hand. And he was always there to correct if it wasn’t done a certain way.

As the years passed, I saw more and more of Uncle Pee Wee. Mostly at stock shows or pig sales. But I made it a point to talk to him. If it wasn’t a full-on conversation,

it was a firm handshake and, “How’s it going today?” He had earned my respect early on. I would even run in to him in Hartzog’s, then Super S and now known as Lowe’s. He had a sweet tooth for Blue Bell ice cream. That’s about the only thing I ever saw him purchase in the store. Any time I would see him, I made sure I told him, “Hello.”

The years continued to go by, and I found myself seeing him a lot more, now at family functions. The silly, long-legged boy I had known since kindergarten had become the handsome, broad-shouldered, tall man that had stolen my heart. Jacob and I dated for seven months, were engaged for six months and married on March 20, 2004.

Uncle Pee Wee and Aunt Carolyn hosted our rehearsal din ner at their house. Fried catfish and all the fixings were on the menu. Jacob’s mom presented us with Papa and Grandma’s wed ding bands to wear the next day. Our something borrowed. Before I left their house that evening, Uncle Pee Wee gave me some words of wisdom. He thanked me for taking care of Jacob and “tying him down”. But he also let me know how important those wedding bands were. He had seen them through richer and poorer, sickness and health and death do us part. He said, “I know you will make it. I have no doubt. You put a smile on that boy’s face that my wife puts on mine. There’s been many years since the day I married her, but oh how I remember it like it was yesterday. Keep taking care of him.”

He may not have always shown how to love, but you knew you were loved. He

because they got so heavy to carry. Back then hides would be $20 a piece. Top dollar was $26. Every Saturday, buyers would come to Comfort or hunters would hit up locals to sell. Ringtails were part of the hunt as well. Although, they did have some fun hunting and taking their dogs Duke, Rattler, Poncho and Tillie among a few out with them, they did it for the money. It was a way to earn extra cash for their families. Hunting all night and getting home around 2, 3 o’clock in the morning and then going to work before the sun rose was the norm. They hunted in December and January and typically on foot with head lamps and had to have a tracker’s license. Every now and then the ladies got to join, but had to work too and carry their own weight. A lot of good times and memories were had on these hunts. Some that have yet to be spoken about.

and there were days when his words took your cares a way. Jacob and I had been married for going on four years, and we weren’t yet parents. God had his own timing. Uncle Pee Wee made sure I knew that too. Sometimes it doesn’t matter who is telling you it will be okay, it just never is. But I knew it would be okay and we would have the family that we had prayed for. And man was he right. Four babies later, we are truly blessed. I see so much of Uncle Pee Wee in each of my children. The meticulousness of one’s work, the carefree, kid at heart laughter from another, the stubbornness and tenacity of the littles. It’s all there. And I have the honor of knowing that there is a lot of him in my husband. He makes sure his family is taken care of. Is willing to help out anyone. And at times that gets him in trouble because there’s so much to be done at our own place. Kind of like a front porch Uncle Pee Wee was to put back on Aunt Carolyn’s house. That porch never made it back on, but so many other things were taken care of that were needed.

continued on page 28

pictured: Charlie Seidensticker, Brad and Pee Wee Spenrath; HC “Sonny”Seidensticker with daughter Carolyn & husband Pee Wee Spenrath.

Photos courtesy of Brenda & Charlie Seidensticker.

(L-R) CHARLIE SEIDENSTICKER, BOBBY SCHLADOER & RATTLER, PEE WEE & BLUE, AND SONNY SEIDENSTICKER

continued from page 27

Uncle Pee Wee loved a good family gathering. It appears we had them often. And our family is huge. He shared a birthday with my son Dax, September 18th. They hadn’t celebrated their birthday together in a few years. But it was always a good time when they did. I knew to brew a cup of coffee for him to be served with his cake. Always black, and maybe another cup to follow. He often got homemade tuity fruity ice cream. He tried to convince Dax it was the best, but he preferred regular vanilla. Nonetheless, those two were well taken care of on their birthday. He was always so proud of each of their accomplishments just as he

was his grandchildren and other nieces and nephews. I made sure to give him a schedule to all their activities. He and Aunt Carolyn would come to the little league field and watch their games. Then as time went on, you could see them in the outfield watching from their vehicle. Time was still moving fast around him, but he was moving slower. He loved baseball and always said that Dax got his baseball sense from him. He’s probably right about that. Dax sent his first over the fence homerun baseball with Uncle Pee Wee when he was sent Home. He said, “Uncle Pee Wee can play baseball in Heaven any time he wants to now.” And I bet, without a doubt he is.

My conversations with Uncle Pee Wee were always direct and with meaning. He never sugar coated anything, and he would convince you to think as he did by the end of your talk. I miss those chats. Even the ones that would make your blood boil. He always had a rationale and point he was trying to make. Looking back, I get most of it now. There’s still a little stubbornness in me that refuses to comply, even with a guardian angel.

That’s how I know him now. As God fearing, Christians we look for signs. We look for things that let us know our loved ones that have passed are still with us. When my little girls see a Cardinal, they always let me know that Uncle Pee Wee has come to visit. Other signs come in pictures or conversations. Or someone wearing a navy, red and white long sleeve plaid shirt that looks just like the one he often wore. I have heard so many stories about Uncle Pee Wee. Ones that I wouldn’t have known if I hadn’t asked questions about a coon hunting picture. He lived a good life. And Pee Wee Spenrath, the man I knew, was one hell of a man. Well done Uncle Pee Wee. Well done.

CHILE VERDE by the Pork Dorks

FOR CHILE VERDE:

• 1 pound of tomatillos, husked and rinsed

• 3 jalapenos, stems removed

• 2 large poblanos, stems removed

• 1 serrano pepper, stem removed

• 2 medium onions, rough chopped

- about 2 cups

• 2 tablespoons of minced garlic

• 1 cup of heavy cream or half/half (if you want to balance out spice and/ or tang)

FOR PORK:

• 2 tablespoons of cooking oil

• 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into bit size pieces

• 1/2 lb of ground pork

• Salt/pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons of cumin

• 1 ½ cups of chicken stock (more depending on how thick or thin you want the sauce)

• 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice

• ½ cup of chopped cilantro

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Spray a large baking sheet with cooking spray or oil. Place tomatillos, jalapenos, poblanos and serrano peppers and place under broiler. Broil

on high for 10 minutes, turning the tomatillos and peppers over halfway through. You can also roast over open flame on a BBQ pit.

2. Remove from oven and cover with foil. Let sit for 10 minutes. Remove as much skins as possible. You can also remove seed from peppers if you don’t want it too spicy.

3. Add broiled tomatillos, peppers, onions, and garlic into a large blender. Blend until smooth. Set aside until ready to use.

4. Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add cooking oil and then pork. Season generously with salt/pepper and cumin. Sear meat on all sides until nicely browned. Remove. Add ground pork and cook until no pink shows. Add pork shoulder back to pot and prepared chile verde and mix thoroughly, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to get all the bits of the bottom of the pan. Cover, lower heat to simmer and cook for 2 to 3 hours, until pork is tender.

5. Add the chicken stock, lime juice and cilantro. Stir until combined. Taste and season with more salt. Finish with cream, if needed or preferred.

6. Top with Monterey Jack cheese, tortilla strips, fresh cilantro, sour cream, and added jalapeno.

A TRUE NASHVILLE EXPERIENCE

WWant to get away to Music City? Don’t miss your chance to be the winning bidder of this fantastic trip to Nashville, Tennesee at this year’s Wild Game Dinner!

Known as the home of country music, Nashville includes fun attractions like the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Grand Ole Opry, Ryman Auditorium and of course the honky tonks and juke joints of Broadway.

This trip through Trekker Travel is for up to four people and includes a four night/ four day stay in a private two bedroom, two bath property that is close to everything Nashville offers, including the middle of Broadway, which is home to worldrenowned bars, honky-tonks, restaurants and other night life.

The property provides a full kitchen, balcony, wifi, TV, and all the comforts of home. Guests will be presented with a beer flight upon arrival, a reservation for bowling at the Pinewood Social (or another experience of equal value and time), and a 75 minute tour on The Nashville Tractor, a complimentary welcome basket, free parking and an exceptional concierge team ready to answer any questions you may have.

TRIP TESTIMONIAL:

“This was a great trip! I am an avid music lover, so Nashville is definitely one of my go-to places! The accommodations were great. The condo was comfortable and being on Printers Alley was awesome! It’s also just a few blocks away from all the honky-tonks on Broadway! Talking one of the bands into letting me play the tambourine with them on stage will forever be one of my favorite moments! Thanks Nashville and Trekker Travel for allowing me to live my BEST LIFE!”

– Amanda Hallmark #Imwiththeband

MAKE THIS TRIP YOURS AT THIS YEAR’S KENDALL COUNTY WILD GAME DINNER LIVE AUCTION!

Founded in 1908, 4-H is the largest youth development program in Texas, reaching more than 550,000 youth each year. There are clubs for ages 5-18 with activities ranging from food science, shooting sports, robotics, fashion and photography. Four of our local 4-H Teams have recently placed exceptionally well in their categoriesway to go kids!

HORSE JUDGING:

1ST PLACE AT TEXAS 4-H ROUNDUP

NATIONAL CONTEST:

All American Quarter Horse Congress Horse Judging Contest

Pictured Left to Right: Anna Haffelfinger, Maddi Carr, Elizabeth McFarland, Isabella Villareal

LIVESTOCK JUDGING:

3RD PLACE AT TEXAS 4-H ROUNDUP

NATIONAL CONTEST:

American Royal Livestock Judging Contest

Pictured Left to Right: Emma Zoeller, Mason Smoot, Turner Matkin, and Connor Womble

HIPPOLOGY:

1ST PLACE AT TEXAS 4-H ROUNDUP

NATIONAL CONTEST:

National Western Roundup Hippology Contest

Pictured Left to Right: Elizabeth McFarland, Anna Haffelfinger, Maddi Carr, Lily Valentine

The Kendall County Junior Livestock Association board approved a $20,000 donation to the Kendall County 4-H Club!

RIFLE:

1ST PLACE AT TEXAS 4-H ROUNDUP

NATIONAL CONTEST: None

Pictured Left to Right: Hannah Dufresne, Meredith Stuart, Briley Sralla, and Brenna Green

PHOTOGRAPHY JUDGING:

1ST PLACE AT TEXAS 4-H ROUNDUP

NATIONAL CONTEST: None

Pictured Left to Right: Aspen McCallum, Will Muck, and Keona Ellis

Class of 2023 Scholarship Recipients

TAYTUM MOLDENHAUER

Comfort High School

Scott Bradley Memorial Scholarship

Taytum is the daughter of Craig and Whitney Moldenhauer. She will be attending Oklahoma State University this fall to pursue a degree in Animal Science. Through her years in Kendall County 4-H, Taytum has shown market and breeding pigs, as well as market steers, and breeding heifers at county and major stock shows. She was also highly involved in the county’s Horse Judging, Hippology Team, and being an officer in the County Council. Taytum is very grateful for all Kendall County and the people for making her the person she is today, this scholarship will go towards helping her achieve all her college goals.

EMILY PETERS

KCJLA Scholarship

Emily Peters is the daughter of Sam & Kim Peters and will be attending Texas Tech University in the fall, majoring in Ag Business and Entrepreneurship. Emily began showing in 2nd grade and exhibited breeding sheep, market lambs and goats during her show career. Emily exhibited the Grand Champion Lamb her final show at Kendall County. This was a longtime goal. In addition to her livestock projects, Emily played Champion HS soccer and club soccer for a national team in San Antonio. She believes that being a part of 4-H and FFA has helped her in so many ways. She is so thankful for the opportunity to participate in such a great program and truly appreciates all the leaders, volunteers and supporters that make this event and scholarships a possibility.

KELSEY PFEIFFER

Texas Tech K-12 High School

Scott Bradley Memorial Scholarship

Kelsey is the daughter of Travis and Lanell Pfeiffer. She will attend Angelo State University in the fall, pursuing a degree in animal food, science and marketing. She has had the privilege, to be part of a national champion meat judging team in 2021. She has also shown cattle, been a council officer, and on the Kendall County Junior Livestock Board. She believes these experiences have prepared her for success, and to give back to the future of agriculture.

KENDYL RUST

Comfort High School

KCJLA Scholarship

Kendyl is the daughter of Shawn and Stephanie Rust. She is attending Oklahoma State University in the fall in 2023 to obtain a degree in Animal Science. Kendyl attended both Boerne and Comfort High school. She is a Texas FFA foundation Ambassador, Texas Livestock Ambassador, and was a Varsity softball player at Comfort High School. She’s enjoyed showing cattle at many Texas majors, along with winning the Arizona National Market Steer Show. In her free time she enjoys fishing, being at the barn, and hanging out with family and friends. KCJLA and Wild Game have done an outstanding job in supporting kids like Kendyl in there dreams to keep our Agriculture industry strong. Kendyl feels blessed to be apart of such a youth oriented community.

Boerne - Samuel V. Champion High School

Texas Game Wardens

SSince 1895 our Texas Game Wardens have played a critical role in protecting Texas. They are here to help the citizens of Texas with an integrated team of professionals to manage and conserve the natural and cultural resources of our state and to provide hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.

Texas Game Wardens are responsible for enforcement of the Parks and Wildlife Code, all TPWD regulations, the Texas Penal Code and selected statutes and regulations applicable to clean air and water, hazardous materials and human health. It is important to remember that they are also licensed police officers in the state of Texas with the powers of arrest and to enforce any state law.

Since 2012, Kirk Jenkins has been the Game Warden for Kendall County. Prior to coming to this area, Jenkins was in Jefferson County for 19 years. “I enjoy getting to visit with people when they are out hunting, fishing, boating, floating the rivers… just getting to enjoy what they like to do,” said Jenkins. “It is really rewarding to visit with the kids that have just caught their first fish or shot their first deer, that is an exciting time for them. But then also, if we can help to educate those individuals on the correct way to do things so future generations can have those same experiences, that is what it is all about,” he added.

Texas Game Wardens look for local educational outreach opportunities within the community where they can interact and answer questions. According to Jenkins, “I love to go to the high schools, career days, the City of Boerne will have kids fishing tournaments at the Boerne City Lake, all of those are great ways to build relationships and share information so the public can learn the correct way and not the hard way.”

The seasons largely determine how Jenkins spends his days. “We do a lot of active patrolling, trying to be proactive and look for possible problems before they arise. In the summers, when there is water, I might be kayaking the Guadalupe River or at the Boerne Lake doing compliance checks, watching to see if people are following proper water safety, checking fishing licenses and fish size. In the winter during hunting season it is a lot of working with land owners, making sure people have the right hunting license, hunter safety. For the most part, in this area of Texas people try to do the right thing, but there definitely are those situations when people are trying to deceive you, and you know they are, that can be interesting. But getting down to the truth is always rewarding,” said Jenkins.

GAME WARDEN FIELD NOTES:

The following items are compiled from past Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) law enforcement reports. Images of individual field notes are available upon request from the TPWD press office.

STING OPERATION

A concerned citizen contacted Montgomery County game wardens regarding a neighbor keeping an alligator in his back yard. The wardens responded to the home where the alligator was reportedly kept. The homeowner admitted to capturing an alligator 4 or 5 feet in length from Lake Conroe, transporting it home to show his kids and then releasing it the next day. The wardens inspected the property and noticed a room full of aquariums. Knowledgeable in aquatic species, one of the wardens identified the animals as freshwater stingrays, which are an invasive species and illegal to possess. Through further conversation, the homeowner also admitted to removing a small alligator snapping turtle from Lake Livingston and keeping it in a tank. As the largest freshwater turtle in North America and a threatened species, it is illegal to capture or possess one without a permit. After discussing the matter with the homeowner, he agreed to assist game wardens in relocating the animals to better suited facilities. The turtle was donated to the Spring Creek Nature Center, which is permitted to possess native species and display them for educational purposes. The stingrays were transported to Moody Gardens to educate the public about different ecosystems and the harm that invasive species can cause to local wildlife.

GAME WARDENS’ BEST FRIEND

An Orange County game warden responded to a call from a petroleum company to report someone hunting without landowner consent. Upon arrival on the property, the warden identified and made contact with an individual that was within the property and admitted to hunting hogs with dogs. Another subject was hiding in the woods, but the warden was able to get his name and phone number from one of the dogs’ collars. After more than an hour and a half, the subject came out of the woods. The warden identified and released both subjects to obtain non-consent affidavits from the landowner’s agent.

Operation Game Thief is Texas' Wildlife Crime-Stoppers Program, offering rewards of up to $1,000 for information leading to the conviction of a wildlife crime. Begun in 1981 as a result of laws passed by the 67th Legislature to help curtail poaching, the program, a function of the Law Enforcement division of The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, is highly successful, having been responsible for the payment of over $195,000 in rewards. Privately funded, the program is dependent on financial support from the public through the purchase of OGT merchandise and memberships, donations, sponsorships, and gifts.

If a violation is currently in progress, please call 800-792-GAME (4263) immediately - 24/7.

VISIT TPWD.TEXAS.GOV TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR TEXAS GAME WARDENS

• Working, recreational and game-managed ranches

• Small properties to large ranches, in excess of 250,000 acres

• River, creek, and lakefront properties

• Estate planning and undivided interest valuations

• Conservation easements

• Rural property partitions

• Hunting and grazing lease studies

• Yellow Book Appraisals – Uniform Appraisal Standards for Federal Land Acquisition

• 2032A Special Use Valuations

• Special agriculture properties; grain handling and drying facilities, horse breeding and training facilities, etc.

• Commercial acreage valuation in metropolitan areas; transition land

• Irrigated and dry farmland

• Groundwater and riparian water rights

• Appraisals for governmental entities

• Coastal properties

"Our family’s background in ranching and agriculture gives us a unique perspective, when it comes to valuing what is important to you."

Class of 2023 Scholarship Recipients

CORRIE SMITH

Boerne High School

KCJLA Scholarship

Kendall County Wild Game Dinner Scholarship

Corrie is the daughter or Robert and Jennifer Smith. She will attend Blinn College in the fall on the livestock judging team and continue her studies at Texas A&M and pursuing animal science and ag business. Throughout her 12 years in 4-H she showed sheep and goats at both the county and major level. Attending shows such as San Antonio, San Angelo, Houston, RGVLS. Corrie is honored to be receiving this scholarship. She is excited for what her future has to offer and is very thankful to the KCJLA for this opportunity.

AMBER STAVINOHA

Boerne High School

KCJLA Scholarship

Amber is the daughter of Melissa and George Stavinoha. She will attend Texas A&M University this fall to pursue a degree in animal science with hopes of a career in veterinary medicine. Throughout her Boerne High School career, Amber participated in FFA, holding leadership positions of Public Relations Committee Chairman, Treasurer, and Vice President. She showed chickens in the KCJLS all four years of high school and is incredibly thankful for the community and volunteer opportunities it provided her. Amber is excited to continue her education and extremely grateful to KCJLA for the scholarship helping her reach her goals.

GIORGANA STEHLING

Comfort High School

KCJLA Scholarship

Kendall County Wild Game Dinner Scholarship

Giorgana (Gigi) is the daughter of Albert and Lauren Stehling. She will attend the University of Texas at Austin this fall and will pursue a degree in Natural Science with a Health Professions Certificate. At Comfort HS, Gigi participated in Student Council, HOSA, NHS, and Volleyball. She was a member of Kendall County 4-H, serving as Swine Club President and a Kendall County Junior Livestock Director. Gigi has raised and shown breeding and market swine at the county, district, and state level for many years. Gigi is very thankful to the KCJLA Directors and the Wild Game Dinner Committee for the scholarship to support her educational goals.

BRIANNA THOMASON

Champion High School

KCJLA Scholarship

Brianna is the daughter of William & Debby Thomason. She will attend Tarleton State University to pursue a degree in Animal Production. Throughout her years at Boerne ISD she has been heavily involved in both the 4-H and FFA, showing sheep, goats and broilers at both county and major shows as well as competing on many different judging and skillathon teams. She enjoys teaching younger kids about raising and showing their livestock projects. Brianna is excited to see what the future holds for her at Tarleton State University and is so thankful to the KCJLA for helping her on her educational journey with this scholarship.

continued on pg 47

GUNS

2023 KENDALL COUNTY WILD GAME DINNER GUN LIST

This fine selection of guns will be available at this year’s Live Auction, Raffles and Hunter’s Challenge game. Don’t miss your chance to take one (or more) home!

AR PLATFORM

Sig MCX RATTLER 5.56 5.5"

S&W M&P15-22 22LR 16" 25RD

ZEV Core Duty 5.56 16"

B&T GHM9 Gen2 9MM 6.9"

Sig Sauer M400 5.56 16"

SHOTGUNS

Benelli Supler Black Eagle 3 12GA 28" (B.E.S.T. Coating)

Mossberg 500 TALO 12GA 18.5"

Stoeger M3500 Snow Goose 12GA 28" (Distressed White)

Retay GPS Tactical 12GA 18.5"

Franchi Affinty 3 Compact 20GA 24"

RIFLES

Sig Sauer Cross 6.5 Creedmoore 18" (First Lite Cipher Camo)

Browning X-Bolt White Gold 6.5 Creedmoore 22" with Leupold 4-12x40 Scope

Henry Single Shot 45-70 22"

Ruger Precision 22LR 18"

Ruger American Ranch 5.56 16.1" (FDE)

Ruger American Ranch 300BLK 16.1" (FDE)

Savage B.Mag 17WSM 22"

Rossi R92 .357

Henry Golden Boy 22LR 20"

Ruger 10/22 Takedown 22LR 16.4" (OD Green)

Savage Axis II Sporter 6.5 Creedmoore 22" (SI Camo)

Ruger American 7MM-08 22" w/ Scope

REVOLVERS

Ruger LCRx 22WMR

A FEW OF OUR FAVORITES

Ruger Wrangler Birdshead 22LR (Bronze)

Smith & Wesson Model 69 44MAG

Colt Python 357MAG

Uberti 1873 Cat Hombre 45 Colt

SEMI-AUTO HANDGUNS

Ruger EC9s 9MM

Smith & Wesson M&P M2.0 TFX 9MM (FDE)

Ruger Max-9 9MM Hogue Grips

FN 509 Tactical 9MM (Threaded / FDE)

Shadow Systems MR920 9MM Limited Edition (Bronze Slide)

Springfield Prodigy 9MM

Smith & Wesson M&P Competitor 9MM

Springfield Hellcat OSP 9MM Bundle (Bag & 5 Mags)

FN 509 MRD 9MM (FDE)

Glock 28 .380ACP

Glock 23 40S&W

Stoeger STR-9C 9MM

Taurus G3 9MM

Sig Sauer P320XC 9MM with Red Dot

Sig Sauer P322 22LR

Sig Sauer Spectre Blackout 9MM w/ Compensator (Limited Custom)

Sig Sauer P365 .380ACP (Turquoise Frame)

ACCESSORIES

Surefire SOCOM RC2 Suppressor 7.62MM (Includes Tax Stamp)

Sightmark Wraith HD 2-16x28 Night Vision Scope

Sig Sauer Whiskey3 4-12x50 MOA Rifle Scope

Vortex StrikeEagle 3-18x44 MOA Rifle Scope

The Sig

Cross FLC in 6.5 Creedmoor is quite a few great guns in one. With a weight of 6.8 lbs ( w/o optics or acc.s ) and a folding stock it makes a great back pack gun coming at 27” folded and 38.5” OAL. That short length folded also means it fits in a typical AR bag. An 18” 1:8 threaded barrel will have plenty of accuracy and stopping power. Coated in Axalta First Lite Camo gives you a little stealth. A good length of 1913 picatinny for optics and M-Lok rails on the hand-guard gives you plenty of options to make this rifle a light weight precision weapon. Light, powerful, and compact combined with precision makes for a lot of guns in one.

Benelli is pretty infamous in the shotgun world and guns like the Super Black Eagle keep that notoriety alive and well. The Super Black Eagle series has been around for a while and with good reason. Now, with the BE.S.T. coating, it makes for a wetland hunter’s dream. The Benelli Surface Treatment protects against corrosion and rust keeping the Eagle reliable and good looking. With a variety of chokes it can handle multiple disciplines out of the box. With the numerous options from Benelli the SBE can tackle everything from fowl to hog hunting. The Super Black Eagle BE S.T. is a great example of refinement and reliability.

Sauer

The Sig Sauer MCX Rattler 5.56 pistol is a modern armament need and shooters wish list gun. Small, reliable, effective, accurate are all adjectives you want to hear in a description for a personal defense weapon (PDW). The MCX series of weapons shoots like a dream and have accuracy to back that up. It can be a truck gun, home defense, or range day favorite. It is a gun not everybody has but, people who want one, want one bad. The MCX Rattle runs like a sewing machine and is built to be tailored to your needs. Plain and simple it is a cool kid gun that performs under any circumstance making it a marquee gun at this event. Show some clout owning a MCX Rattler and feel great about helping kids to get it. That is a win, win in our book.

The Ruger American Ranch .300 AAC Blackout is an amazing rifle in a carbine package. The American Ranch is such a great bolt action rifle for day-to-day use. The threaded 16” barrel has the length to produce accuracy and take down power for the .300 Blackout round. The picatinny rail optics mount and ability to run AR 15 type magazines give you the options to make it into whatever type of rifle you need. Small and light to carry, while short and nimble to get out the window while driving in the pasture. Ruger put a great adjustable trigger in it as well as a comfortable to shoot stock. This a really cool rifle as is, add to that the aftermarket has goodies for it to make it even better, equals a rifle you should want to win. If .300 Blackout isn’t your round of choice, we have a 5.56 model as well, AR compatible rounds and magazines, you need one of these Ruger American Ranch rifles.

Shadow Systems Limited Edition Signature Bronze MR920. This is one truly feature packed pistol. The MR in MR920 stands for Multi role. It’s an awesome EDC, it’s an awesome range gun, it has features that let you trick it out with anything pistol imaginable. It is based off the Glock frame and uses Glock 19 interoperable magazines making it a reliable weapon from the start. Shadow Systems stepped in and refined this platform to very next level standards. The serrations and RMR cut on the slide set it apart from anything else. The barrel and slide are coated in a proprietary coating from Shadow Systems that reduces friction and wear making it an even more reliable shooter. Everything about this gun makes it reliable and the machining and bronze coating makes it one of a kind. If you ever wanted a hot rod Glock that is definitely not a Glock, this is your huckleberry. If all this is not enough, Shadow Systems is based out of Plano TX. USA based is one thing but, TX based well, that says it all. Absolutely a head turner in both aesthetic and performance.

Having a .357 MAG Python was not enough for the Kendall County Wild Game Dinner gun list. The list needed that country cousin to the Python and we found it in the Rossi R92 lever action in .375 Magnum / .38 Special. Lever action is hotter than a two-dollar pistol right now and the pistol caliber versions are just fun to shoot. The extra barrel length adds a little ump to the pistol round and being able to drop down from the .357 MAG round to .38 special makes it more useful across a broader range of shooters. A pistol caliber lever action lets everybody get to feel a little John Wayne when it gets pulled out. If the Rossi isn’t your game, we also have a Henry Golden Boy Lever in 22LR and a Henry single shot in 45-70. Whatever your fancy we can help you get a little western while you help send a kid off to school in the process.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 40

The Browning X-Bolt White Gold Medallion chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor is something to behold. In a world of AR’s and machined precision chassis rifles this thing is a throwback to classy, beautiful hunting rifles. This is that gun when you saw it pulled out of sheepskin sheath you were taken back and couldn’t believe that gun was going to Colorado or Wyoming to get packed around on a horse for a week. The polished black walnut stock and stainless barrel is a showstopper alone. The gold-plated trigger and filigree engraving really send it into heirloom status. A modern chambering of 6.5 Creedmoor topped off with a Leupold 4-12 X 40 optic creates a rifle that can be handed down with pride. The X-Bolt White Gold Medallion will take you back to when you first saw someone’s pride and joy hunting rifle as a kid and made you want to one day own the same thing.

SureFire SOCOM762-RC2 Suppressor and Tax stamp. Who doesn’t want a suppressor that is rated to handle up to .300 Win Mag? Who wouldn’t want the $200 tax stamp covered as well? I am sure there is a group out there, but they will not be at this event. SureFire quality and craftsmanship speaks for itself. The SOCOM762-RC2 can go from .308 and .300 Win Mag down to 5.56/ .223 for Multi Cal functionality. SureFire builds quality and military sniper and Special Operation utilizing their brand proves it. If you ever wanted a suppressor and a tax stamp but, had too many other projects and bills to pay for, we added this to our raffle for you. KCWGD wanted to up the game and this is one way we did it. This is worth a raffle ticket or two to win.

Colt Python .357 Magnum that, says it all. The Python is arguably one of the rowdiest production revolvers out there. Young or old, if you like guns you know the name, you know the reputation. It was out of production for a while but, it’s back and we have one. With its stainless-steel frame and Colt medallions embedded in walnut grips, everyone knows it means business. What a lot of people do not know is the Python can also fire .38 Special cartridges. This makes for lighter shooting experience and another great round to enjoy this iconic pistol. It’s a Colt Python, sure there are people who don’t want one, those same people cried when Velcro strap shoes went away. Come by and take a chance to add this icon to your collection.

You have some things roaming around that go bump in the night? Is a flashlight in one hand and trying to aim a rifle a bit inconvenient? The Sightmark Wraith 2- 18X28 Night Vison Scope has got your back. A night vision scope seemed like a no brainer for a wild game dinner raffle. Adding a Night vision scope from a manufacturer from Mansfield, Texas was like saying yes to breathing. This scope has a ton of reticle options, you can record in HD and, the lower magnification makes it a great optic for pigs or coyotes on the run. It is not just a night vision scope; it also performs well during the day also. Drop some tickets on this item and up your pig and predator game. If you do your hunting during the daylight hours and night vision is not a need, there are also some great optics up for grabs from Vortex and Sig Sauer as well.

For additional information or to donate a gun to this year’s auction, please contact

The Go-To Guy Herman Stehling

by Beca Short

Every group has that one person who is their “Go-To Guy.” For us, that person is Herman Stehling.

Herman is a multi-tasker and wears many hats! He’s the guru of the sound system, electronics, and every other complicated thing at the barn! This year he was tasked with upgrading our Wi-Fi. He would call me to go over the information and I would simply stay “stop…I have no clue what you’re talking about”!

This year, I inadvertently passed him the gun list for review. I needed help! Herman took over and spent countless hours with the guys from Apache as they fine-tuned the list, swapped out guns, and added accessories. Just like everything else he does, he was very methodical in the selection and rationality of each gun. As if this wasn’t enough, he then did the graphics and descriptions of our top guns for this magazine!

If you can’t find Herman at the barn volunteering his time with KCJLA and WGD, you will find him coaching or watching his nieces and nephews as they compete in stock shows, sports, and other school activities.

Someone asked him why he spent so much time doing all this. His response was simple. “Raising dough for the kids that show”! Uncle Herman…we couldn’t do this without you! Thank you.

SAVE THE DATE

2024 KENDALL COUNTY JUNIOR LIVESTOCK SHOW & SALE

MONDAY, JANUARY 1: Ag Mechanics Show will start at 7:00 AM

Poultry Show (Broilers and Turkeys) will start at 10:00 AM

TUESDAY, JANUARY 2: Swine Show will start at 8:00 AM

THURSDAY, JANUARY 5: Sheep and Goat Show will start at 8:00 AM

Heifer and Steer Show will start at 9:00 AM

SATURDAY, JANUARY 6: Kendall County Jr. Livestock Youth Premium Auction

Buyer Check-in from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Buyers Lunch at 11:00 AM

Sale Starts at 12:30 PM

A Jack Named Jack

Originally published in the Comfort News

Up near Kerrville between 1926 and 1939, a big donkey named Jack on the Bierschwale Ranch carried more bucks, in weight that is, than any burro from the lost San Saba mine.

Burros, legend tells us, carried gold and silver by the packload from the Spanish mine, but Jack, a big, grayish-white animal, much larger than any of his burro compadres, carried bucks of a different order – the antlered, white-tailed deer kind.

All told Jack carried some 532 deer for weary hunters over a 13-year span.

Teller of the story of Jack is Otto E. Krause, 76, of Box 164, Comfort.

Krause, who has killed 142 bucks in his 59 years of hunting, knows as much about Jack as any other man. From 1918 to 1939, Krause guarded the Bierschwale Ranch during deer season and was a guide for hunters. He also was custodian of the doughty beast of burden.

Krause first laid eyes on Jack at the town of Waring, southeast of Comfort.

Noting that Jack was bigger than any conventional Texas donkey, he learned by inquiry that the animal was two years old, measured 13 hands high, and was a descendant of a Kentucky jack and a Kentucky jenny.

Shortly afterward Robert and Jim Bierschwale, owners of the ranch, instructed Krause to ride the animal from Comfort to their ranch 17 miles away.

“He’s really a travelin’ piece of furniture,” Krause reported to his employers after completing the journey. “Made the trip in 3 ½ hours.”

This was but the first accomplishment of the big donkey to endear him to Otto Krause. There were to be many more. And Krause confessed recently that he often finds himself wondering about Jack, whether the donkey still roams the hill ranges, or more probably has long since completed his busy life span.

When the Bierschwales sold the ranch 12 years ago, Krause, before leaving the

place, playfully slapped Jack on the flank for the last time and saw him wander over a hill.

Jack, Krause believes, probably saved quite a few hunters, already suffering with buck fever, from heart attacks.

“I used to spot hunters where they nearly always would get a deer, if they’d stay put,” Krause explained. “All they had to do was tie their deer on Jack’s back, and he’d carry it back to the bunkhouse.

“Some of the deer weighed up to 140 pounds, and carrying such a carcass a mile up and down hill is some chore for a human in that rough country. Somebody at the bunk-

house would relieve Jack of the deer, and he’d always return for another load.”

“Here comes the donkey freight again,” the hunters would say. “He’s the only civilized donkey out here.”

But the donkey had plenty of horse sense and learned to move faster after each of his many rewards – a tomato can (quart) of oats at the end of each journey.

Jack was particularly worth his oats on one occasion, an afternoon when a particularly strong northerner was boring into the hill country.

The wind was whistling its way through

Jack the Hill Country Donkey hauled many a dead buck. Old photo shows him with 131-pounder and Otto Krause on back.

the cedars when a shivering party of San Angelo hunters decided to call it quits for the day.

While they wrapped their garments tighter and tighter and argued over the direction of the camp, Jack, all 13 hands of him, stood tall, the warm carcass of a slain deer slung across his back serving as his only protection against the biting cold, his knobby knees twitching.

Each man pointed in a different direction, except a Negro cook, who wisely kept his hands stuffed in his pockets.

The donkey stood alongside, with his enormous ears flattened in the wind, his long head thrust forward, his tearful eyes battened shut.

Waiting until there was a break in the argument, the cook interjected, “Look at this donkey, boss. He’s pointing to the bunkhouse.”

“I’m no jackass when it comes to direction, boy. The camp is over this way,” one hunter declared, pointing to the leeward.

“Well, let’s try your way. If we don’t get going, we’ll freeze to death. Look how dark it’s getting,” the first man replied.

But the donkey was reluctant, refused to

budge.

The cook started to unfasten the bridle.

“What are you doing, boy?” One hunter demanded.

“I can’t budge this donkey. I think he’s smarter than we are right now. I’m gonna let him loose and follow him.”

“You’re not trying to make a jack ass out of me, are you?” asked the hunter who had pointed the selected direction.

“No, sir.”

With that, the donkey, now free of his bridle, turned to the oppo site direction and confidently started climbing a hill with his burden.

“Look boss,” the cook cried jubilantly. “The donkey’s going home.”

The cook followed the donkey, and the hunters followed the cook, and before darkness closed in, they were all back in the bunk house, with big Jack among them, enjoying a whole gallon of oats this time.

Jackson Hole Getaway to

This year at the Kendall County Wild Game Dinner, attendees will have the opportunity to bid on not one, but two amazing experiences to Jackson Hole, Wyoming!

TRIP #1: SKI THE WEST

TThis trip is for two people through Trekker Travel. Included with your winning bid is a 4 day/4 night stay at a hand-picked Bed & Breakfast 6 miles from Jackson, Wyoming. Gourmet breakfast included each morning in addition to a snack bar open throughout the day. Enjoy the expansive decks and secluded cabin charm just a few miles away from the entrance of Grand Teton National Park. You will have the opportunity to fly down the slopes, lift tickets for two people for two days are included with your trip.

This trip is set up to bring you the best of Jackson Hole and what the area has to offer.

Aside from the included items, you’ll have the opportunity to explore Jackson and other towns spread throughout the valley, or simply relax and take in the surrounding nature. This trip is sure to check the boxes for anyone who wants a peaceful experience while enjoying one of the most scenic areas and best mountains found within the United States.

TRIP DETAILS

• Four day / Four night trip | Accommodations for 2 people.

• Airfare not included, airport pickup can be arranged as an additional cost.

• Trips will be taken during selected date blocks in January and February of 2024. Dates to be mutually agreed upon.

• Complimentary gourmet breakfast each morning & concierge team.

• Lift Tickets for 2 days for 2 people.

TRIP #2:

EXPERIENCE THE WEST

TThis trip is for two people through Trekker Travel. Included with your winning bid is a 4 day/4 night stay a hand-picked Bed & Breakfast 6 miles from Jackson, Wyoming. Gourmet breakfast included each morning in addition to a snack bar open throughout the day. Enjoy the expansive decks and secluded cabin charm just a few miles away from the entrance of Grand Teton National Park. Also included with your trip is a 10-mile dinner rafting experience, where you will float down the scenic Snake River and enjoy a western meal upon completion. Transportation to and from the dropoff points are included. The highlight of the trip is a full day, professionally guided, photo tour through Grand Teton National Park. You’ll have the opportunity to view and photograph some of the most iconic locations in the West, as well as a vast array of wildlife ranging from birds to bears, while under the tutelage of an experienced photography professional. Relax and enjoy everything there is to see and do in Jackson Hole and other towns throughout the area.

TRIP DETAILS

• Four day / Four night trip | Accommodations for 2 people.

• Airfare not included, airport pickup can be arranged as an additional cost.

• Trips will be taken during selected dates in June, July, and August 2024 to be mutually agreed upon.

• Complimentary gourmet breakfast each morning and concierge team.

• Full day guided photo tour through Grand Teton National Park (Park Passes not included)

Good Food

Gone Wild

DDinner is always better when it’s a little wild! Try these tasty recipes from Riverside Catering, featuring wild game meat like Elk, Axis and Dove/Quail.

Elk Teriyaki Meatballs

Meatballs:

2 pound ground Elk

4 scallions, finely chopped

1 cup very finely chopped cilantro

3 tablespoon sesame oil

2 tablespoon vegetable oil

4 tablespoons soy sauce

1 cup fine, dry bread crumbs (unseasoned)

2 egg, lightly beaten

Sweet Soy Dipping Sauce:

1/4 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup soy sauce

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

2 or 3 slices fresh ginger smashed with the side of a heavy knife or I like getting fresh ginger paste. (In tubes by the herbs)

Process:

To make the meatballs: Heat the oven to 400. Gently mix together the ingredients (hands are best for this), then form meatballs by rolling tablespoon- sized scoops between your palms. Arrange on a lightly oiled or parchment lined

riverside-catering.com

cookie sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, until well- browned and cooked through. Serve with toothpicks for dipping.

To make the dipping sauce: In a small pot, stir all the ingredients together over medium-low heat until the sugar dissolves.

Simmer 3 or so minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens a bit.

Fish out the ginger and serve in small cups for dipping.

Crock Pot Axis Tips

EASY & FAST

Serve it over mashed potatoes or white rice.

2 lb. Axis Backstrap (that’s been tenderized)

1 can cream of mushroom,

1 packet brown gravy mix,

1 packet lipton dry onion soup mix,

1 small can mushrooms

1 cup water.

Mix all ingredients and pour over the meat, set to low for the day in crock pot.

Honey Sriracha Dove/Quail Skewers with Coconut Rice

Prep Time: 15 minutes (+ 2 hours

marinate time)

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Servings: 6

Marinade:

2 Tbsp grapeseed oil

1⁄2 cup honey

1⁄2 cup Sriracha

1⁄4 cup soy sauce

1⁄4 cup rice wine vinegar

2 Tbsp lime juice

2 Tbsp grated ginger

Salt and pepper

10 Dove or Quail breasts

1⁄2 - 3⁄4 cup large pineapple cubes

2 red bell peppers

1 large red onion

Cilantro for garnish

Coconut Cilantro Rice:

2 cups coconut milk

1 cup water

2 cups jasmine rice

1⁄4 cup cilantro

2 Tbsp scallions

Salt to taste

Process:

Whisk marinade ingredients together.

Use 1⁄2 to marinate Dove/Quail and 1⁄2 to marinate the veggies and pineapple. Let sit for 2 hours or overnight. Add the coconut milk, water and rice to a pan, and simmer covered for 20 minutes. Stir in cilantro and scallions. Skewer all of the chicken pieces on one set of skewers, and alternate vegetables and fruit on the other set of skewers. Reserve the marinade from the pineapple and vegetables for brushing while cooking.

Grill Dove/Quail for about 5–8 minutes per side. Grill vegetables for about 8–10 minutes per side. Serve over coconut rice.

Class of 2023 Scholarship Recipients

TABITHA WILKE

Boerne - Samuel V. Champion High School KCJLA Scholarship

Tabitha Wilke is the daughter of Anthony and Stephanie Wilke. She has raised chickens since she was a freshman in high school and she was a Junior Director for two years. Tabitaha was the president of Champion High School’s FFA and the Co-President of Champion’s Choir. She will be attending Texas A&M University in the fall going into the Honors College in Bioenvironmental Sciences. “I hope to use my degree from the School of Agriculture to broaden the horizon of agriculture and make the world a better place. Thank you!”

A young Linda Zrzavy & her cousins - 1952, Pearsall, Texas

Photo submitted by Megan Baird

1952

Photo submitted by Megan Baird

Linda Zrzavy 1973, Pearsall, Texas

Photo submitted by Megan Baird

Linda Zrzavy & her brother Louis Schorp 1965

Photo submitted by Megan Baird

Mike Saur (cook team), Steven Reeh & Jason Lindner

Photo submitted by Brenda & Charlie Seidensticker

Charlie Seidensticker and Carolyn Seidensticker SpenrathNovember 1951

Photo submitted by Brenda & Charlie Seidensticker

HERE FOR A GOOD TIME !

CHECK OUT THESE FOLKS HAVING A GREAT TIME AT LAST YEAR’S WILD GAME DINNER

Pawsitively AdorableL

Class of 2022 Scholarship Recipients

Last year’s Kendall County Wild Game Dinner Live Auction included two of the cutest puppies you’ve ever seen - a corgi and a goldendoodle who both went to amazing homes. We checked in on them and their owners couldn’t love them more!

Riley Hallmark and her sidekick, Rooster

“Rooster is a traveling dog! He goes with me to all the rodeos and team ropings. He is my constant companion and I adore his good natured and super sweet personality.”

LOGANN WEIDENFELLER

Boerne - Samuel V. Champion High School

KCJLA Scholarship

Logann is the daughter of Greg and Amber Weidenfeller. She will attend Texas A&M University in the fall and plans to pursue a degree in Animal Science/Pre-Vet. While in school, Logann was involved in 4-H and FFA showing goats and lambs in shows throughout Texas. She is excited for her future and wants to thank the KCJLA for the scholarship to help her achieve her goals.

NATHAN WILSON

Baffin

“We are so glad we bought our girl, Baffin, at the WGD last year. She loves playing on the beach, fishing on the boat, golf cart rides, fetching corn hole bags, and loves her frisbee. She has truly been a blessing.”

Comfort High School

Scott Bradley Memorial Scholarship

Nathan is the son of Dustin and Jennifer Wilson. He will attend Texas A&M University in the fall to pursue a degree in Agribusiness. He has shown pigs since the age of seven and served as an officer in the Comfort FFA chapter. Nathan is very grateful to the Bradley Family and KCJLS Association for the scholarship.

– Courtney Pfeiffer

H Texas BBQ

H Tender Steaks

H Fresh & Smoked Sausages

H Jerky

H Specialty Meats

H Dry Sausage

H Meat & Cheese Party Trays

H Deer Processing

Monday-Friday 10am - 5pm Saturday 10am - 3pm

texas hunting 2023-2024 at a glance

white-tailed deer

ARCHERY ONLY: Sept 30 – Nov 3

GENERAL - NORTH: Nov 4 – Jan 7

GENERAL - SOUTH: Nov 4 – Jan 21

YOUTH: Oct 28-29 & Jan 8-21

rio grande turkey

FALL SEASON

NORTH : Nov 4 - Jan 7

SOUTH : Nov 4 - Jan 21

BROOKS, KENEDY, KLEBERG & WILLACY

COUNTIES: Nov 4 - Feb 25

ARCHERY-ONLY : Sept 30 - Nov 3

YOUTH - NORTH: Oct 28-29 & Jan 8-21

NORTH: Sep 1 - Nov 12 & Dec 15 - 31

CENTRAL: Sep 1 - Oct 29 & Dec 15 - Jan 14

SOUTH: Sep 14 - Oct 29 & Dec 15 - Jan 21

dove quail

STATEWIDE: Oct 28 - Feb 25

FOR FULL SCHEDULE VISIT: tpwd.texas.gov

YOUTH - SOUTH: Oct 28-29 & Jan 22- Feb 4

SPRING SEASON

NORTH : Mar 30 - May 12

SOUTH : Mar 16 - Apr 28

ONE-TURKEY COUNTIES : Apr 1-30

YOUTH - NORTH: Mar 23-24 & May 18-19

YOUTH - SOUTH: Mar 9-10 & May 4-5