Hill Country Sun,. April 2014 editiion

POSTAL PATRON

PRSRT STD AUTOCR U.S. POSTAGE PAID WIMBERLEY, TX 78676 PERMIT NO. 21

Hill Country SUN

FREE

April 2014 Meet the talented

Fred Pfeil Leatherwork

transformed into works of art

R Buda Lions Club Country Fair &

World Famous Wiener Dog Races R Cinema lovers delight in Fredericksburg’s

Hill Country Film Festival R Suzy Moehring Mallard’s

Hill Country Parks Enter Texas State Parks photo contest

R The Hill Country’s most complete

Calendar of Events

Serving Austin, Bandera, Blanco, Buda, Bulverde, Canyon Lake, Comfort, Concan, Driftwood, Dripping Springs, Fredericksburg, Gruene, Henly, Johnson City, Kerrville, Kyle, Llano, Leakey, Luckenbach, Marble Falls, Medina, New Braunfels, San Marcos, Sattler, Sisterdale, Stonewall, Wimberley, Utopia, Vanderpool & More

Find us on Facebook HillCountrySun

World famous wiener dog races April 26-27

An upscale traditional B&B on 5 wooded acres Art v Antiques v Books v Fireplace Internet v Satellite TV v Fine Linens Homemade Breakfast served Fair daily April 26-27.

Don’t miss the wiener dog races at the Buda Lions Club Country Delicious Snacks, Coffees & Teas Photo courtesy Buda Lions Club Country Fair.

Close to Wimberley & outlet malls

F

By Ernie Altgelt

or two dog-gone great days each April, the burgeoning (and at times, barking) burg of Buda finds itself amazingly ankle-deep in determined dashing dachshunds, all itching to win one of Texas’ most unique (and beloved) canine competitions – the annual Buda Wiener Dog Races.

Marking the 17th consecutive running, this year’s furry field featuring some of the finest (and fleetest) lowslung thoroughbreds from kennels across the country will undoubtedly prove once again to be the must see, tail-wagging

tournament extraordinaire guaranteed to delight dog, and dog fanciers of all stripe.

So, as not to miss any of the fun, plan to load up the family and Fido and follow the crowds to Buda because, that’s the only way you’ll find out just which of these winsome wieners is truly the top dog. Arf Arf! The races, first held in 1998, were an outgrowth of the long established (and very enjoyable) Buda Lions Club Buda Country Fair. Going back decades, the fair continues to be a favored local attraction.

On its own, Call Rosemary at it would be reason See BUDA COUNTRY FAIR, page 4

512-667-0107

alexandrashousetx.com

Rustic Design 250 Hugo Rd. • San Marcos, TX

Imports

Rustic Furniture Western Art Sto re Brazilian Cowhides 50 % th at Table Lamps S Y A A LW Floor Lamps a h as Rawhide Shades se le ct fu rn it ure Longhorns S a le!

Great Gifts

OF F

512-847-2221

Visit our Website

www.RusticDesign.biz 111 Old Kyle Road H Wimberley

Daily 10-5 H Sunday 12-5 H Closed Tuesdays PAGE 2 APRIL 2014 R HILL COUNTRY SUN

Bringing it Home...

Hill Country SUN Julie Harrington Publisher Advertising Melissa Maxwell Ball Editor Ernie Altgelt Suzy Moehring Mallard Writers Gerry Burns Delonn Bowie DeLane Ibarra Adelle Spell Distribution

The 16Th AnnuAl

April 2014 Volume 24 • Number 11 ISSN: 1524-2315 Entire contents copyright © 2014 by TD Austin Lane, Inc. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any fashion without the written consent of the publisher.

• The Hill Country Sun is published monthly. For advertising rates or information, call Julie Harrington at 512-484-9716 (email julie@hillcountrysun.com). Credit cards accepted.

• Circulation: 22,000. Distributed monthly to more than 450 popular Hill Country locations (see list of towns on front cover) and home delivered to all 5,276 Wimberley homes and 8,663 Dripping Springs homes by the US Postal Service.

• Cover: Master leatherworker Fred Pfeil of Pfeil Leather in Helotes crafts custom holsters and can make (and repair) just about anything else in leather, including highly-tooled belts, instrument straps, hat bands, chaps, spurs straps and more.

He’s also a great source for saddle repair. Photo by Ernie Altgelt. Inset Photo: Fred Pfeil’s basketweave rig. Photo by Mary Pfeil. (See story, Page 6.)

• Deadline for calendar events is the 15th of each month.

Email events/press releases to melissa@hillcountrysun.com.

Like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/HillCountrySun

Brent Thurman Memorial Bull Riding PBR Bull Riding & Exceptional Rodeo

SATURDAY • JUNE 28 Starts at 6 pm

Dripping SpringS rAnch pArk evenT cenTer Sponsorships available, email

dhenley2@austin.rr.com $20 Adults • $10 kids ages 5 to 12 Kids Under 5 Get In Free

www.brentthurman.com

www.hillcountrysun.com julie@hillcountrysun.com • melissa@hillcountrysun.com

INDEX

HENLY

Texas Hill Country Locator Map

© 2014 by TD Austin Lane, Inc.

Austin J5 Bandera B10 Bergheim D9 Bertram I2 Blanco F6 Boerne D9 Buchanan Dam F2 Buda J7 Bulverde G10 Burnet G2 Camp Verde B8 Canyon Lake G9 Castroville C12 Center Point B8 Clear Springs H11 Comfort C8 Concan A11 Driftwood H7 Dripping Springs H6 Fischer G8 Fredericksburg C5 Georgetown K2 Granite Shoals G2 Gruene H10 Hancock G8 Helotes G6 Henly G6 Highland Lakes F2/3 Hondo B13 Hunt A7 Hye E6 Ingram B7 Johnson City F5 Kendalia F8 Kerrville B7 Kingsland F2 Kyle I8 Lampasas G1 Leakey A9 Llano D2 Liberty Hill I12 Luckenbach D6 Luling K10 Marble Falls G3 Martindale J9 Mason B2 Medina A9 New Braunfels H10 Oak Hill I6 Oatmeal H2 Pipe Creek C10 Round Rock K3 San Antonio F12 San Marcos I9 Sattler H9 Seguin I11 Sisterdale D8 Spring Branch F9 Startzville G9 Stonewall D6 Utopia A10 Vanderpool A9 Wimberley H8

Denture

Shop

Dentures & General Dentistry for Less

Need Dentures?

No Insurance?

No Problem!

Call now to schedule a free consultation!

Dr. Joni Avery & Associates 290 at Bell Springs Road Dripping Springs, Texas Toll Free

855-858-2250

mydentureshop.com

HILL COUNTRY SUN R APRIL 2014 PAGE 3

wimberley

BUDA COUNTRY FAIR, from page 2

Express the essence of you New bracelet and charms collection

·PASSION·

·FREEDOM·

· H E A LT H ·

·RESPECT·

·HOPE·

·HAPPINESS·

·COMPASSION·

·TRUST·

·CONFIDENCE·

·FAITH·

· S TA B I L I T Y ·

·ENERGY·

Discover the full ESSENCE COLLECTION at Pandora.net

13915 Ranch Road 12 Wimberley, TX 78676 512.847.1100 www.cedar-chest.com Open Daily 10AM–5:30PM

PAGE 4 APRIL 2014 R HILL COUNTRY SUN

enough to head (up or down) to Buda for two days of exceptional entertainment.

With the addition of the wiener races however, it’s become an even bigger draw.

Last year’s two-footed attendance exceeded 25,000.

Regarding the wiener races, a number of “heats” are scheduled throughout Saturday and into Sunday culminating in the big race, the finals, Sunday afternoon.

All entrants must be dachshund by breed and all are pre-inspected by a staff veterinary. The course is a straight 70 feet with the dog at the starting gate and the owner/coach/encourager at the finish line. When the whistle blows the hounds are afoot. The fastest runner advances.

At that first competition 16 years ago there were 54 participants. Today, attendees can expect a field surpassing 600 – that’s a lot of wieners! At the conclusion, the winner (or should I say, wiener) and runner-up both receive trophies, cash prizes and lots of well-earned adulation (not to mention a dog biscuit or two).

And, while the races are certainly entertaining, the Country Fair is a hoot, as well. At this April’s event, approximately 100 venders are scheduled to be on hand showcasing and selling their various (and very affordable) arts and crafts. The merchandise ranges from exquisite jewelry to functional deer blinds with tons of furniture, knives, artwork and more in between. There will also (naturally) be lots

of neat dog-related products too.

Continual live music will enhance the shopping experience.

Other hotly contested competitions include a barbeque and baking cook-off and a washer tossing tournament. There’s even a pet parade.

And, since having fun works up an appetite, visitors will have lots of tasty choices including juicy hamburgers, steaming hot dogs (of course), smoky fajitas, colorful snow cones and other savories. The kiddos are covered too with the provision of ample, safe, supervised and just plain cool activities – no one will be bored, hungry or unhappy!

The Buda Wiener Races and Country Fair are all found on the grounds of the spacious, comfortable, fenced Buda City Park. Shade and seating are plentiful but personal lawn chairs are welcome as well.

The entire package is very family- and petfriendly (even for non-dachshunds).

Frankly, with so much to do, most in attendance make a weekend of it.

FYI • The Buda Lions Club Country Fair is Saturday, April 26 and Sunday, April 27 from 8 am to 6 pm. A modest admittance fee of $3 for everyone 12 and older is good for both days. Parking at a remote lot (the near-by Cabelas outlet) is $5 with frequent back and forth shuttle service throughout the weekend. All proceeds go to various Buda Lions Club charities – most directed toward issues addressing vision impairment. For more information on location, entry requirements for the races, cook-offs and washer tournament, area accommodations, activities and times visit the web site at www.budalionsclub.com or call 512-565-0505.

Suzy Moehring Mallard

WIMBERLEY “Best Vintage Find” Southern Accents • “Where to Buy” London Financial Times 2006

The

Wild West Store

Hill COuntry parks

HUNDREDS OF VINTAGE COWBOY BOOTS

Picture yourself in a Texas state park

T

his weather is one of the reasons we live in Texas.

This fabulous spring weather. Birds, butterflies, ladybugs, caterpillars, Mexican hats, coneflowers, live oaks, pecans, Indian paintbrushes, bluebonnets, Texas mountain laurels – the beauty we love in the Texas Hill Country is just bursting out all over right about this time of year.

And Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has scheduled a couple of activities this spring that can get you out into one or more of our fabulous state parks – birding and Be part of the Texas State Photo Contest, “Picphotography.Get the family. ture Yourself in a Texas State Park.” Entries are Call some friends. Go birding due by April 15. Here. Katie Sue McCann enjoys in April as spring migration be- her walk in the park. Photo by Suzy Moehring Mallard. gins throughout all of our Texas state parks.

OK. So you’ve gone to the parks.

Each region of the state offers a unique birding experience with more You’ve spied some birds. And along the than 630 bird species statewide. The en- way you saw great views, the gorgeous dangered black-capped vireo is a high- natural beauty of our hill country, landlight at Kickapoo Cavern State Park, marks in parks, and a few up-close looks at plants, kids, and critters. which is located northeast of Del Rio. Ready. Aim. Click. Be part of Texas This species arrives in late March for nesting and departs in mid-September. Its Parks and Wildlife’s second annual Texas cousin, the gray vireo, can also be found State Parks Photo Contest – called “Picduring the nesting season. Cave swallows ture Yourself at a Texas State Park.”

Photos need to have at least one perare abundant at Stuart Bat Cave, while several of what Texas Parks and Wildlife son in the photo and must be taken in a calls “borderland specialties,” including Texas state park or natural area – you can the zone-tailed hawk, elf owl, vermilion enter up to three photos from one park, a flycatcher, varied bunting and hooded total of six photos. Categories are photographers 17 and under, photographers 18 oriole are seen regularly.

Blanco, Devils Sinkhole, and Peder- and over, and Instagram photos.

Whether it’s a photo from a weekend nales Falls are among a dozen Texas state parks that are designated as having bird- get together with friends, or even a selfie, ing blinds that offer prime perches for your playful moments at your favorite viewing and photographing the parks’ state park could be published in the Texas birds. Beginning birders can download an Parks and Wildlife Magazine. And someIntroduction to Birding brochure at tpwd. body has to win the HERO3+ S ilver Edition GoPro© video camera – org to learn what to look and listen for in their favorite state park. Texas Parks and why couldn’t it be you? Or one of your Wildlife suggests that people new to bird- kids?

Photos must be entered before miding should try to spot easily identifiable species, such as northern cardinals, green night April 14 at Flickr photo group “Picjays, great kiskadees, painted buntings, ture Yourself at a Texas State Park” or tagged in Instagram using the hashtag roseate spoonbills, and brown pelicans.

This year marks the 18th annual #MyParkPic. Way more information about enterGreat Texas Birding Classic April 15 to May 15. The Great Texas Birding Classic ing, tagging your photo, and Texas Parks follows the Great Texas Wildlife Trail, a and Wildlife’s rights to photos is available set of driving maps to wildlife viewing online at tpwd.org.

But you know what? Whether or not sites throughout the state.

And if you want to venture south of you enter this photo contest, state parks the Texas Hill Country, you can use these are a great place to take photos of your maps to follow the Great Texas Coastal family and friends having the times of Birding Trail, something Texas Parks and their lives – exploring, wandering, wonWildlife says is the nation’s first trail of dering, being together, acting silly, having fun. So get on out there. its kind.

O

•Buy! Sell! Trade!

“The Boot Whisperer”

Just off the Wimberley Square Olde Towne Plaza - 13709 RR 12

512-847-1219 www.koolboots.com

as seen on BBC World News July 2013

“Go for a consultation with the Boot Whisperer, who reads feet like a psychic reads palms.” Texas Monthly, August 2010 Open by appointment. Please call in advance 512-293-4890.

A DISTINCTIVE COLLECTION OF

Fine Art in the Hill Country

Tom Darrah, North of Taos, Oil, 20 x 24

Ben Carter, Home on the Range,Oil, 36 x 36

Manuel Garza, Siesta Time Buffalo, Oil, 7 x 9

OPEN HOUSE

George Kovach, Ever Winding Road, Oil, 40 x 30

Saturday, April 12 • 10 am-5pm during Wimberley Arts Fest weekend

Guest Artists with new paintings will be in the galley TERRY GRISHAM, DIRECTOR

On the Square at • 100 Oak Drive, Suite 200 in Wimberley, Texas (Across from Kiss the Cook)

512-847-7278 TheArtGalleryAtWimberley.net HILL COUNTRY SUN R APRIL 2014 PAGE 5

Fred Pfeil crafts true works of leather art

A

By Ernie Altgelt

few short miles from Helotes, home to the equally-beloved Floore’s Country Store and El Chapparral restaurant, resides a more reticent third “Texas Original.”

He has notably made his mark, not through the offering of exceptional country music or savory comidas Mexicanas, but rather with the lifetime acquisition (and mastering) of the challenging craft of leatherworking and the resulting extraordinary output of the same.

That “original” is Fred Pfeil, famous

to some but quietly unknown to most, whose innate creativity and hard-earned expertise with an unruly (but tamable) medium reflects a personal passion beautifully evidenced in all of his work.

So much so in fact that, when taking into account this artisan’s considerable “cowhide accomplishments,” the term “leathercraft” just won’t cut it. For Fred, and his one-man company Pfeil Leather, it’s nothing short of “leatherart.”

A native Texan, Fred was born in 1937 in Kenedy but spent most of his youth growing up in San Antonio. His affinity

wimberley

EAGLE MOUNTAIN FLAGS • Flags & Flagpoles • Patriotic Gifts • Knives & Cutlery

333 FM 2325 • Wimberley, Texas www.EMFlag.com

The talented leatherworker Fred Pfeil (of one-man company Pfeil Leather in Helotes) at work in his studio. Photo by Mary Pfeil.

Mon-Thurs 9 am-5 pm • Friday 9 am-3 pm

512-847-0010 • 800-385-5605

Sat, April 5 3 pm-5 pm Come celebrate our 4th Anniversary! $100 Gift Certificate! Giveaways! Refreshments!

for cowhide began in 1947 when the then 10-year-old was given a few leatherworking tools by his uncle. These tools were originally issued by an army hospital and made up part of the uncle’s therapy while he recovered from an injury. The first item the aspiring leatherworker made was a small key fob.

As he recalls, “It was simple but it worked and, surprisingly to me, I really enjoyed the process.”

Other projects quickly followed, each providing important learning opportunities where the young, entirely self-taught craftsman began developing the skills and techniques that would ultimately serve him so well in later years.

As Fred’s abilities increased, demand for his handiwork grew as well.

In the early 1950s, Western-style “name” belts were popular and Fred was happy to accommodate any and all who wanted one.

As he smilingly relates, “I recently ran into an old friend who I hadn’t seen in 50 years and she told me she still had the belt I’d made for her. Like a lot of us in later years, however, she unfortunately had put on a few pounds and ‘outgrown’ it.”

Other requests from friends, family members and even strangers soon followed.

By the 1960s, Fred, now a working reserve deputy sheriff in Bexar County (he would later become a full-time deputy within the department), also became a member of the renowned “Pearl Gunslingers,” a local group that provided reSee FRED PFEIL, page 7

Wimberley Day Spa at the Blair House

indulge yourself with a private or couples’ massage in a serene environment created for your comfort & relaxation.

100 W. Spoke Hill Road Wimberley, Texas

BlairHouseSpa.com

www.

512-847-1111 • 877-549-5450 Special... receive

Free Massage w/purchase of four

Call for Appointment.

PAGE 6 APRIL 2014 R HILL COUNTRY SUN

Offer restricted to use by one person

DRIPPING SPRINGS

FRED PFEIL, from page 6

Smile of the Month...

Carly C. Cunningham,

D.D.S., M.S.

Please visit our website at

CunninghamOrthodontics.com next to Dripping Springs High School 512-858-1311 • toll free 877-858-1311 131 Benney Ln, Ste A • Dripping Springs

www.cunninghamorthodontics.com

An example of Fred Pfeil’s beautiful custom work, an oak leaf holster and rig. Fred crafts leather masterpieces in tooled belts, instrument straps, hat bands, chaps, spurs straps and more. Photos by Mary Pfeil. alistic “Old West” reenactments” throughout Central Texas.

It was his affiliation with law enforcement and the Gunslingers that gave his talents further direction.

Custom holsters, whether old-style “frontier” reproductions or modern day police models, soon became one of Fred’s most popular and sought after creations.

Over the years, he’s made countless variations, each unique to the personal specifications of the end user and his or her sidearm.

Aside from the exquisite tooling, workmanship, quality materials and design involved, when completed, these holsters perfectly (safely and beautifully) “fit” the exact weapon they will ultimately cradle. His success in this area has been such that many area police officers, sheriffs and deputies—even Texas Rangers— sport Pfeil holsters.

While custom holsters remain a large part of his current business, Fred also is happy to make (or repair) just about anything else in leather, including highlytooled belts, instrument straps, hat bands, chaps, spurs straps and other items.

He’s also an excellent source for saddle restoration. Working out of his specially constructed workshop filled with all of the hand tools (including those from his uncle, as well as ones he personally fabricated) and mechanical equipment necessary to tackle any assignment, Fred, who uses only the finest in American tanned leather, is fully prepared physically, mechanically and, especially, creatively to satisfy even the most demanding leathergoods buyer. That’s why he has so much repeat business from individuals and professional groups.

Currently, only one retail outlet (San Antonio’s South Texas Saddlery) stocks finished Pfeil Leather (Western-tooled) belts. For most desiring one of Fred’s custom pieces, an appointment must be made where, face-to-face, the artist and the customer can meet, discuss, plan and commit

to, what will invariably become, another Pfeil artistic masterpiece.

When asked about his work, Fred readily volunteers, “I like what I do but, more importantly, folks seem to like my work too. Heck, everyone likes leather! How’d I get so lucky?”

FYI • To make an appointment call Fred (at Pfeil Leather) at 210-325-1336. His web site, which should be online shortly is at www.pfeilleather.com. And, be assured, all of Fred’s work comes with a lifetime guarantee!

STORIED FIREARMS Turn your guns into cash!

We will buy your guns!

BUY & TRADE

You Need to See Our Collection of Firearms!

Great Prices • Unique Selection now an NFA

DEALER

Holsters • FrogLube • Ballistol Accessories • Cleaning Supplies

MODERN ORTHODONTICS FROM FRIENDLY PEOPLE.

Mark A Thompson DDS MS Specialist in Orthodontics 512-858-2916 • www.austinbraces.com corner of Ranch Road 12 @ 290 West

A Total Wellness Center We have moved to a larger space to better serve your needs!

SERVICES OFFERED

Specific Chiropractic • Massage (Cupping, Essential Oil And Deep Tissue) • Aesthetician Blood Lab On Site • Custom Nutrition • Weight Loss Meditation Instruction • Progressive Rehab Personal Training • 8 Weeks To Wellness Program

in the Arbor Center

800 Hwy 290 W, Bldg F • Dripping Springs Tues-Fri 10 am - 6 pm Sat 10 am - 4 pm

9300 US 290 West, Building 2 Austin, Texas 78736

3-ish miles from the Y at Oakhill & 11 from Dripping

located in The Old DumasTrain Depot

512-394-0125

Dr. Chae Tracy Dr. Nick Hoyer Dr. Monya Tracy Dr. Erica Miller

512-858-WELL • www.ffchiro.com Mention this ad for

15%

OFF*

initial consultation

Excludes Medicare patients • Expires 5-30-14

HILL COUNTRY SUN R APRIL 2014 PAGE 7

dripping springs

Books • Artwork • Candles • More Fabric • Sofas • Furniture •

Designer Fabrics at Discount Prices

• Fabric • Trim • Pillows • Body Care • Furniture • More Fabric

Pottery • Drapery Hardware • Toys

Tremendous Savings Off Suggested Retail Every Day! • Custom Furniture • Designer Fabrics • Decorative Trims • Unique Gifts • Accessories • Toys Let Our Design Staff Assist You with Custom Draperies, Bedding, Baby Bedding, & In-Home Design Service.

All at the

BEST PRICES! Like Us On

Trail Head Market • Hwy 290 West • Dripping Springs 512-894-0350 • 800-982-7424 Mon-Sat 10-6 • Sun 12-5

cowgirlsandlace.com SPRING SALE • APRIL 5-14

20% Discount Storewide!

JOIN THE Y starting Apr.15th

YOUR STAYCATION DESTINATION Start your “STAYCATION” today at the Springs Family Y. We have all you need for summer family fun: • FREE Youth Programs • FREE Group Exercise Classes • Pools, Aquatic Playscapes & Waterslides • Camps

SPRINGS FAMILY YMCA | 27216 Ranch Rd 12 | 512.894.3309 | AustinYMCA.org

PAGE 8 APRIL 2014 R HILL COUNTRY SUN

Hill Country Film Festival comes to Fredericksburg

I

By Ernie Altgelt

n what’s promising to be a “reel” fun five-day run this spring (April 30 through May 4), the spot light again will be beaming brightly on historic Fredericksburg as the community’s focus shifts (slightly) away from its treasured Old World heritage and reorients, amazingly enough, more towards something most would associate with the West Coast and Tinsel Town – namely, the art of film making.

Yep movie buffs, it’s almost time for the curtain to rise on the acclaimed, 5th annual 2014 Hill Country Film Festival (HCFF) where those gifted with the abilities to create (for the big and little screen) in moving black and white and/or color – and their adoring fans as well – gather to show and share an amazing abundance of the finest in independently-produced cinematic wonderment.

So, here’s an early casting call for all those hot and bothered for some box office boffo and desiring the best seats – you better get your tickets early because the director is about to shout, “lights, cameras, action, let the festival begin!”

First staged in 2010, the HCFF was originally the idea of noted film maker and Hill Country Film Society executive director Chad Mathews, a native Texan with deep familial ties to Fredericksburg.

After attending and successfully participating in a number of film festivals across the nation, Chad felt compelled to establish a similar (although with a decidedly Hill Country flavor) Central Texas get-together with the ultimate goal of attracting diverse and tal-

ented film makers (local, national and international) and film aficionados where works of many types could be previewed, enjoyed, discussed and, even compete for industry recognition—all in a welcoming, small-town environment.

To that end, the Hill Country Film Festival was brought to fruition, booked into several accommodating Fredericksburg-area venues and quickly proved to be a “smash hit.”

After four years the event continues to get even better and bigger, drawing more and more accomplished and neophyte directors, writers, producers and others, all involved in communicating through the challenging media of film.

This year’s festival should prove to be the best yet, as 75 (possibly more) films covering multiple topics and showcasing a variety of techniques are slated for inclusion. Many of the offerings will be “Texas premiers.”

The films presented are unrestricted regarding subject matter, length and/or methods of production, including full animation and, the majority will be shown at either the Fritztown Cinema or the Fredericksburg Theater Company.

Both venues are a short distance off Main Street, each offering state-of-the-art sound and projection capabilities and both, very comfy.

Before and after the various presentations, panel discussions and Qs and As are scheduled and the viewing public will have opportunity to meet, quiz and visit with festival entrants. And, coupled with the showings are a number of related “parties” open to ticket holders See FILM FEST, page 9

frio/sabinal river valleys

FILM FEST, from page 8

Paradise is closer than you think!

Retreat to the Hills for a Week or Weekend of Relaxation & Adventure

Private Vacation Homes & Cabins ~ Hiking, Birding, Mtn Bike Trails

Rio Frio Lodging & Nature Center

830-966-2320

www.friolodging.com • www.hillcountryadventures.com

Screen 75 films covering multiple topics and showcasing a variety of techniques at Fredericksburg’s Hill Country Film Festival April 30 through May 4.

Photo courtesy Hill Country Film Festival. and hosted by area businesses (including wineries and restaurants) where food and drink will be as plentiful as the “movie talk.” Here’s a chance to actually mingle with the makers.

To open the festivities, several introductory free screenings will be offered on Wednesday, April 30 – one that afternoon at the Fritztown Cinema and, later that evening, another at Fredericksburg’s outdoor city park, the Martkplatz. There is no charge for admission but donations of clothing and household goods to greatly

appreciated festival sponsor Goodwill Industry will be accepted. Lawn chairs are recommended for the park performance.

FYI • The 2014 Hill Country Film Festival will begin on Wednesday, April 30 and conclude on Sunday, May 4.

It’s show time! Tickets for various levels of participation can be purchased in advance by visiting the festival’s web site at www.hillcountryff.com. Prices range from single-screening ticket costs of $10 up to $125 for an all-access, multi-day pass. Parking is free at all showings. The web site also has complete details on times, dates, titles and venue locations as well as submission entry criteria.

River Rim Resort

Warning...Experiencing Experiencing on the Frio could become Warning... theFall beauty of the Frio could becomehabit habitforming forming

Find Us on

at River Rim Resort on the Frio

Cabins & RV Sites • www.RiverRimResort.com

(830) 232-5758 • 1204 CR 350 • PO Box 72 • Concan, TX 78838

Loca

K K Frio ON the

Boutique

Gifts H Jewelry Home Decor and Clothing 23223 N. US Hwy 83 Concan, Texas (at the Y in Concan)

830-232-4402 CowgirlLoca.com HILL COUNTRY SUN R APRIL 2014 PAGE 9

Hill country calendar

Culvert Pipe

Live Oak Hwy 16

Reuben

Price Us Before You Buy! call 830-997-3247

Main (290)

Windcrest

N

801 Rueben Street • Fredericksburg, TX

Walter’s Building & Supply Standing Seam Custom Metal Roof Systems for Your Home COLONIAL ROOFING

Let us upgrade your home with a new Metal Roof. Reasonable prices, excellent workmanship. Quick replacement.

Call 512-491-0818 to start the process and get that roof you have always wanted.

Metal Roof with 1” Snap Lock & 11/2” Double Lock Standing Seam

www.colonialroofingtexas.com Send calendar events to

melissa@hillcountrysun.com

Ball Brothers

Paint & Drywall 30 Years Experience

Locally Owned & Operated Quality Workmanship References Available

Exterior Painting H Interior Painting Drywall Repair H Power Washing F ence & Deck Painting/Staining Additions H Remodeling

Need Carpentry Work? Call Us.

512-360-7062 H www.ballbrotherspainting.com PAGE 10 APRIL 2014 R HILL COUNTRY SUN

NOTE: Dates or locations for the events listed in the Calendar may change. Some require admission fees or reservations.

Please call ahead to confirm information.

EVERY DAY GRUENE: Live music at Gruene Hall.

Enjoy free music shows Monday through Thursday nights and Saturday and Sunday afternoons. www.gruenehall.com.

SECOND SUNDAY BANDERA: Cowboy Camp. Live cowboy music at Frontier Times Museum. Free. 1 pm to 5 pm. 830-328-0321.

JOHNSON CITY: Taste Wine + Art Music Events. Rockin’ gospel to Latin music at the Kirchman Gallery. 830-868-9290.

EVERY MONDAY CANYON LAKE: Seniors Bingo. 12:30 pm at Habitat for Safe Seniors, 2174 Old pm Road, Startzville. 830-899-2256.

CYPRESS MILL: The Bunkhouse Gang at Wenmohs Ranch. Paint and enjoy fellowship of other artists. 830-825-3465.

WIMBERLEY: Hill Country Community Band. First Baptist Church. 512-858-7960.

WIMBERLEY: Toddler Story Time at Wimberley Library. 10:30 am. 512-8472188, www.wimberleylibrary.org.

EVERY TUESDAY through SUNDAY WIMBERLEY: A premier hand blown glass lighting and art glass studio, creating exclusive glass collections, limited edition vases, sculptures, platters and lighting since 1992, Wimberley Glassworks hosts glass blowing demonstrations for travelers and art glass enthusiasts from around the world. The Glassworks’ custom lighting designs are featured in luxury commercial properties throughout Texas. Visit wgw.com for more information.

FIRST TUESDAYS BANDERA: Cowboy Capital Opry. Silver Sage Corral Senior Center. 830-796-4969.

THIRD TUESDAYS NEW BRAUNFELS: Country Music Show at the Knights of Columbus. 830629-4547.

LEANDER: Low Cost Pet Spay, Neuter and Vaccination. 512-260-3602, ext. 101.

EVERY WEDNESDAY DRIPPING SPRINGS: Farmers Market. 3 pm to 7 pm at the Highway 290 and Ranch Road 12. March to December, rain or shine. www.cityofdrippingsprings.com.

WIMBERLEY: Farmers’ Market. Fresh produce, fresh breads, much more at the Senior Citizen’s Activity Center on Ranch Road 12. 512-264-1637.

THIRD WEDNESDAYS DRIPPING SPRINGS: Cook Off Club meets at 6:30 pm in the VFW Hall. ryoncrew@yahoo.com.

FOURTH WEDNESDAYS WIMBERLEY: Hill Country Neighbors.

10:30 am at the Wimberley Community Center. 512-847-2849.

EVERY THURSDAY DRIPPING SPRINGS: Coffee House with Light Dinners, Decadent Desserts and Open Mic. 6 pm to 9 pm. Thyme and Dough. 512-894-0001.

FIRST THURSDAY BUDA: First Thursday. Stroll through the downtown antique and specialty shops, enjoy the food from downtown restaurants. www.discoverbuda.com.

DRIPPING SPRINGS: Thursdays with Doug Moreland and the Flying Armadil-

los at Mercer Street Dance Hall. www. mercerstreetdancehall.com.

SECOND THURSDAY WIMBERLEY: Hill Country Bead Society Meets. Wimberley Community Center. 1 pm. For information, Marilyn Pierce at mp@smpierce.net.

FIRST AND THIRD THURSDAY CANYON LAKE: Noon Lions Meeting at Canyon Lake Golf Club. 830-899-4406.

THIRD THURSDAY WIMBERLEY: Susanna’s Kitchen Coffeehouse presents some of the best in Central Texas’ musical talent. Concerts held at Wimberley United Methodist Church, Corner Ranch Road 12 and County Road 1492. Doors open by 7 pm, concert at 7:30 pm. Free child care; tamales, pizza, pie, coffee, soft drinks available. Tickets at door. For listing of performers, visit the web site at www.wimberleyumc.com.

EVERY THURSDAY, FRIDAY, SATURDAY WIMBERLEY: Live Music at Linda’s Fine Foods. Delicious food, beautiful music at 500 Farm Market 2325. 512-847-5464. www.facebook.com/LindasFineFoods.

EVERY FRIDAY BLANCO: Tasting Room Open and Brewery Tours at Real Ale Brewing Company. www.realalebrewing.com.

GRUENE: Friday Afternoon Club at Gruene Hall. Broadcast live by KNBT92.1 FM Radio New Braunfels. 4 pm to 7 pm. 830-629-5077.

WIMBERLEY: Bingo. VFW Hall on Jacobs Well Road. 512-847-6441.

WIMBERLEY: Preschool Story Time at the Wimberley Village Library. Bring your little ones at 10:30 am. 512-847-2188, www.wimberleylibrary.org.

WIMBERLEY: Celebrate Recovery. First Baptist Church Youth Building. 7 pm to 9 pm, with pizza at 6:30 pm. 512-847-9035.

SECOND FRIDAY CASTROVILLE: Friday Night Fever.

Cars, trucks, bikes, food, shopping. 6 pm to 10 pm. Lundquist Automotive. www. castroville.com, 830-931-2479.

WIMBERLEY: Wimberley Area Parkinsons Association Meeting. Chapel of The Hills Church, 11 am. 512-847-7953.

FOURTH FRIDAY BANDERA: Fourth Friday Jam. At the Silver Sage Corral starting at 6:30 pm.

Call 830-796-4969 for information.

EVERY FRIDAY, SATURDAY AND SUNDAY FREDERICKSBURG: Rockbox Theater.

Variety, music, and rock ‘n roll show, great family fun. 866-349-6688.

EVERY FRIDAY AND SATURDAY WIMBERLEY: Live Music. Linda’s Fine Foods. www.lindaallencatering.com.

EVERY SATURDAY AUSTIN: Austin Farmers Market. Republic Square. 512-236-0074.

AUSTIN: Sunset Valley Farmers Market.

Barton Creek Mall. 512-280-1976.

COMFORT: Comfort Area Farmer’s Market. 8 am to 1 pm. Comfort Park on Highway 27.

COMFORT: Wine Tastings at High’s Café. 4 pm to 7 pm. www.highscafeandstore.com.

DRIPPING SPRINGS: Texas Music and Wine. www.solaroestate.com.

FISCHER: Jackson Open Air Market.

Local artists and farmers, food, fun and

Hill country calendar entertainment. 9 am to 5 pm. 6341 Farm Market 32. 830-935-2781.

NEW BRAUNFELS: Canyon Trail Chuckwagon Supper and Cowboy Music Show. 830-626-8200, 888-408-7245.

WIMBERLEY: Tours of Jacob’s Well.

Hear stories about floods and divers, experience beauty of spring that started town. 10 am. www.jacobswellspring.org.

WIMBERLEY: Arnosky Family Farms Market. Fresh flowers, more. Ranch Road 2325 and Highway 165. 830-833-5428.

FIRST SATURDAY BANDERA: Market Days. 830-796-4447.

BANDERA: First Saturday Book Sale.

Public Library. 830-796-4213.

DRIFTWOOD: Driftwood Community Club meets to enhance community spirit of Driftwood. Dinner, fun at 7 pm. www. driftwoodtx.org 512-829-5101 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Low Cost Pet Vaccinations. At Tractor Supply on Highway 290. 512-858-7229.

WIMBERLEY: Market Days. (March through December). Everything you can’t live without at Lions Field. 475plus booths, free admission. 7 am to 4 pm. www.shopmarketdays.com.

FIRST AND THIRD SATURDAY WIMBERLEY: Toastmasters Public Speaking and Leadership Club. 10:30 am. Visitor’s Center. 512-913-4804.

SECOND SATURDAY CASTROVILLE: Market Trail Days.

Houston Square. 830-539-2316.

THIRD SATURDAY MARBLE FALLS: Bluegrass, Country

and Western, and Gospel. 6 pm to 10 pm.

Boys and Girls Club. 830-898-1784.

EVERY SATURDAY AND SUNDAY ROUND MOUNTAIN: Tours at Westcave Preserve. www.westcave.org.

SECOND SATURDAY AND SUNDAY AUSTIN: Tours of Bright Leaf Natural Area. www.brightleaf.org.

APRIL 3-6 JUNCTION: Magic Valley Carnival. City Park. www.junctiontexas.com.

APRIL 4 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Nick Gatwood and the Grinders featuring Tracie Lynn.

Live music at Mercer Street Dance Hall. www.mercerstreetdancehall.com.

GRUENE: Jerry Jeff Walker. Live music at Gruene Hall. www.gruenehall.com.

KERRVILLE: First Friday WineShare at Riverside Nature Center. 6 pm to 7:30 pm.

830-257-4837.

APRIL 4-5 AUSTIN: Lonestar Roundup. Huge outdoor car show and live music fest features vintage hot rods and custom cars from across the country. Travis County Expo Center. lonestarroundup.com.

APRIL 4-6 LLANO: Llano Fiddle Fest Weekend.

Enjoy air fiddle competitions, tricks and licks contest, the Llano Fiddle Open competition, concert by Lost and Nameless Orchestra and more. www.llanofiddlefest.com, 325-247-5354.

APRIL 4-13 FREDERICKSBURG: Wine and Wildflower Trail. Enjoy the season’s wild-

Balcones Songbird Fest

New Fischer/Canyon Lake area Artisan & Farmers Market

Open Saturdays at 9 am 6341 FM 32 • Fischer, TX 1.3 miles east of Canyon Lake H.S.

For information 830-935-2781

HillCountrySun

Ducks Unlimited Annual Banquet May 10, 2014

~ Hog Heaven ~ 491 Hog Hollow Road

DRIPPING SPRINGS CHAPTER

Auctions, Raffles, Games, Dinner

Information / Reservations Call: Chae Tracy 512-496-8333 Buy online at: www.ducks.org/texas/events

April 25-27, 2014

MARBLE FALLS HThe 14th annual Balcones Songbird Festival April 25-28 gives guests a chance to see the endangered Golden-cheeked Warbler, Black-capped Vireo and many other migrating species.

Take a guided tour with wildlife experts who can help you see the endangered songbirds, unique native plants and wildlife and the natural habitat of the Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge.

Bring a camera and take advantage of the opportunity to capture images of wildlife on a guided tour with the experts. Whether you are a novice or veteran birder, there will be something of interest for you. Workshops can enhance your birding skills, add to your knowledge, and provide an opportunity to meet and chat with world-renowned birders.

Sunday don’t miss Fledgling Fest! Bring the kids for a free and fun-filled and educational afternoon with nature activities for all ages.

FYI • To reach the Refuge Headquarters from Lago Vista, go west on FM 1431 for 5 miles past the intersection with Bar-K Road. If you are coming west on FM 1431, the office will be one mile from Cow Creek Road. The office is on the north side of the highway. For more information, and a complete schedule of tours (and fees) offered at the Balcones Songbird Festival, visit the web site at www.friendsofbalcones.org

Live Music and Entertainment!

Parade Washer Pitching

Llano Crawfish Open

Food * Beer

Carnival Arts & Crafts

Cit y

Cookoff

f o

ipping S Dr pr In

c. 1981

texas

gs in

LLANO H The Llano Crawfish Open is a Texas Hill Country event you don ’t want to miss with great food, live music, a motorcycle run, a 5K run/walk, team roping, a golf tournament and much more.

Friday and Saturday at Llano Park, you can enjoy boiled crawfish, barbecue, jambalaya, potatoes and corn from 11 am to 7 pm.

There’ll be live music all day Friday and Saturday, plus headliners Asleep at the Wheel Friday night and Mark Chestnutt Saturday night at Llano Park Pavilion, FYI • For more information, call 325-247-2270 or 325-247-5354 or visit the web site at llanocrawfishopen.com, where you can find a complete schedule of events anc activities, as well as admission information. For information about the Motorcycle Fun Run, call Chuck Bailey of the Gypsy Motorcycle Club at 325-247-3880. Applications for the Golf Open are available on the web site at www.llanorivergolfcourse.com.

Find us on Facebook.

Local Artists & Farmers Food • Fun • Entertainment!

Family Fun Event!

Friday starts at 4pm.

Saturday 10:30am - midnight Sunday 11am until 5pm

Thank You Platinum Sponsors!

DODGE

Music on the Home Depot Stage Friday Featuring 7:30 pm Hot Texas Swing Band 10 pm Bobby Pounds

Saturday Featuring 8 pm Michael Myers 11:30 Chad & Natasha Hudson 12:45 Edison Chair 2:00 Catch a Dream Band 4:00 The Jim Halfpenny Band 6:00 8:00 Carport Casanovas Photo credits: Pun Nio, Ann Drabicky, Cathy Jones

foundersdayfestival.com ✪ Mercer Street in Dripping Springs HILL COUNTRY SUN R APRIL 2014 PAGE 11

Hill country calendar

~B I N G O~ Every Friday v 4 Early Bird Games 7:15pm ~ 50/50 Split v 10 Regular Games 8pm VFW Hall Post 6441 @ Veterans Park 4 mi. no. on RR 12 to Jacobs Well Rd Non Smoking • Plenty of Parking • Air & Heat • Food Available www.texasvfw.net • 512-847-6441 • Lic. #1-74-6066562-7 www.visitwimberley.com/vfw

14th Annual Nature Quest April 23, 24, 25, 26 & 27, 2014 Texas Hill Country’s Best All Around Birding-Nature Event!

Discover birds, bats, butterflies, nature photography, wildflowers & more!

lavillita.com.

WIMBERLEY: Wimberley Community Chorus presents “A Night on Broadway.” St. Stephens Episcopal Church. Saturday at 7 pm and Sunday at 3 pm. www.wimberleycommunitychorus.org.

WIMBERLEY: Guitar Workshop and Retreat for Women. Enjoy a full weekend of education and inspiration for female guitarists.

Eat healthy and delicious food, practice yoga, take hikes, make new friends and take a giant leap in your guitar playing. 512842-1435, www.guitar-instruction-video.com.

APRIL 5-20 FREDERICKSBURG: Wildseed Farms’ WildHal Ketchum performs at Susanna’s Kitchen in flower Celebration. Enjpy Wimberley April 17. Photo courtesy Susanna’s Kitchen. colorful fields, great shopping, butterfly gardens and plenty of special acflowers plus visits to 36 wineries in the tivities. Details at www. region offering special events, tastings, wildseedfarms.com. tours, food and entertainment. www.tex- APRIL 9 aswinetrail.com.

WIMBERLEY: Passion for Paper. Free APRIL 5 adult craft program at Wimberley Village BOERNE: Wild West Day at Enchanted Library. Sue Brockman instructs—make Springs Ranch. www.visitboerne.com. a paper mobile. 6 pm. Email programs@ BOERNE: Cibolo Nature Center’s Mostly wimberleyvillagelibrary.org.

Native Plan Sale. www.cibolo.org.

APRIL 10 COMFORT: Fruhlingsfest: “Spring Festi- WIMBERLEY: Eliza Gilkyson with Bruce val.” Comfort celebrates its German heri- Robison and Slaid Cleaves. Live at Blue tage and wildflower season with arts and Rock Studio. www.bluerocktexas.com. crafts, music and food. Historic District. APRIL 10-13 www.comfortchamberofcommerce.com.

DRIFTWOOD: Old Settler’s Music FestiDRIPPING SPRINGS: Tours of Historic val. Event features Americana, acoustic, Phillips Cemetery. Costumed actors re- jazz and blues, bluegrass, old time faenact lives and lifestyles to tell the tale vorites and other artists from around the of Dripping Springs history. 2 pm to 4 world. Also enjoy arts and crafts, camppm. Adults $5, free under 15. www.heriing, food and libations. Salt Lick Pavilion tagecircle.org. and Camp Ben McCulloch. www.oldsetDRIPPING SPRINGS: The Cornell Hurd tlersmusicfest.org.

Band. Live music at Mercer Street Dance APRIL 11 Hall. www.mercerstreetdancehall.com.

DRIPPING SPRINGS: The Georges. Live FREDERICKSBURG: Historic Country music at Mercer Street Dance Hall. www.

Schools Open House Tour. Tours of four mercerstreetdancehall.com. rural, historic school houses in Gillespie GRUENE: The Fabulous Thunderbirds County, where former students share sto- Live music at Gruene Hall. www.grueneries of school days from the late 1800s to hall.com. the mid 1900s. www.historicschools.org.

STONEWALL: Reflections of the ’60s at WIMBERLEY: St. Stephen’s Episcopal the LBJ Ranch. Guest speakers, including School 25th Annual Extravaganza at The authors, former legislators and historiSalt Lick’s Pecan Grove Pavilion in Drift- ans, on topics relevant to the 1960s. 9:30 wood. Enjoy cocktails, dinner and danc- am to 2 pm. LBJ National Historic Park ing with live and silent auctions. Event Ranch. www.nps.gov/lyjo. benefiting the school and ushering in APRIL 11-12 25th Anniversary Year. Alumni family BOERNE: Market Days. www.visitor former faculty or staff, please recon- boerne.com. nect. www.ststeveschool.org.

DRIPPING SPRINGS: Hill Country WildAPRIL 5-6 flower Fest. Arts and crafts fair offers SAN ANTONIO: 2014 Starving Art- food, jewelry, gifts and more Texas handist Show at La Villita. Outdoor art show crafted items. Dripping Springs Ranch fund raiser for Church of La Villita. www. Park. www.texasmarketguide.com.

CANYON LAKE...YEAR ROUND VACATION LIVING Come enjoy our clear lake and cool, refreshing river!

Shop • Dine • Swim • Tube • Raft • Canoe • Fish • Camp • Sail

800-528-2104 • www.canyonlakechamber.com

PAGE 12 APRIL 2014 R HILL COUNTRY SUN

Hill country calendar APRIL 11-13 BANDERA: Mayhem on the Medina.

Step back into the 19th century, with period correct campsites, historical event re-enactments, gunfights, more, plus in games, enjoy wagon and pony rides, food, arts and crafts. www.MayhemOnTheMedina.com.

BURNET: Bluebonnet Festival. Enjoy a parade, live Texas and local music, 5K, golf tournament, wiener dog races, pet parade and much more. Downtown Square. www.bluebonnetfestival.org.

APRIL 11 - MAY 4 WIMBERLEY: Wimberley Players present “Come Back to the Five and Dime, Jimmy Dean, Jimmy Dean. Friday and Saturday 7:30 pm, Sunday 2:30 pm. www. wimberleyplayers.org.

APRIL 12 AUSTIN: Girls In STEM Conference.

Chance for girls in grades 4 to 8 to see the fun side of jobs in science, technology, engineering and math. Hands-on workshops by professional women excited about sharing careers. Rwww.girlstart.org.

DRIPPING SPRINGS: Heritage Gala to benefit the Dr. Pound Historical Farmstead on the museum grounds. Tdrpoundhistoricalfarmstead.org, 512-858-2030.

GRUENE: Junior Brown. Live music at Gruene Hall. www.gruenehall.com.

HYE: Garrison Brothers Distillery 2014 Spring Stillhouse Series. Intimate bourbon pairing dinner held in The Barrel Barn of Texas’ first and oldest legal whiskey distillery. 830-433-5225, www.stillhouseseries.com.

BOERNE: Brandon’s Revue. Benefit concert for Cibolo Nature Center’s Songs and Stories Concert Series features Texas singers and songwriters. www.cibolo.org.

DRIPPING SPRINGS: Doug Moreland and the Flying Armadillos. w w w. m e rc e r s t re e t d a n c e h a l l . c o m .

FREDERICKSBURG: Bluebonnet Tractor Ride. Antique tractors, cars, trucks make a 20-­mile loop through scenic Gillespie County. Begins at Gillespie County Fairgrounds. www.rustyiron.org.

UTOPIA: Utopia Community Auction.

11 am lunch. Bid on exotic hunts, John Walts Custom Knife, more. Benefits Utopia Lions Club, EMS and Volunteer Fire Department. Noon to 4 pm on the Square. jheeb@swtexas.net.

WIMBERLEY: The Art Gallery Open House. Meet guests artists with new paintings. 10 am to 5 pm. www.TheArtGalleryAtWimberley.net.

APRIL 12-13 WIMBERLEY: 6th Annual Wimberley Arts Fest at Blue Hole. Juried fine art, great music, car show, paint off and more. www.wimberleyartsfest.com.

APRIL 13 AUSTIN: Spring Plant Sale and Gardening Festival. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. www.wildflower.org.

HELOTES: The Mavericks. Live music at John T. Floores Country Store. www.liveatfloores.com. 210-695-8827.

APRIL 14 BLANCO: 2nd Annual “Wounded Warriors” and “Fisher House” Golf Tourna-

Heritage Gala April 12

J Deam HCS April_Layout 1 3/29/14 10:20 AM Pag

ment Benefit by VFW Post 8573 of Canyon Lake. 4-man Scramble starts at 9 am at Vaaler Creek Golf Club. $60 before or $65 day of tournament. Mail your name and entry fee to VFW Post 8573, Post Office Box 1576, Canyon Lake, Texas 78133. 830-964-4568.

APRIL 17 WIMBERLEY: Susanna’s Kitchen presents Hal Ketchum. Concert starts at 7:30 pm, tickets sold at the door. Pie, tamales, pizza, coffee and soft drinks available.

Tickets are $20 for adults, $5 for students under 18. For information, call Sharon at 512-722-3316, sharonreece37@gmail.com.

APRIL 18 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Brennen Leigh and Noel McKay. www.mercerstreetdancehall.com.

GRUENE: Old 97s. Live music at Gruene Hall. www.gruenehall.com.

APRIL 18-20 FREDERICKSBURG: Trade Days. Shop more than 350 vendors. Seven miles east of town off Highway 290, at 355 Sunday Farms Lane. www.fbgtradedays.com.

APRIL 19 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Bobby Pounds.

Live music at Mercer Street Dance Hall. www.mercerstreetdancehall.com.

HELOTES: Robert Earl Keen. Live music at John T. Floores Country Store. www. liveatfloores.com.

STONEWALL: Easter at the Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm. Celebrate Easter like traditional 1915 German family. www.nps.gov/lyjo.

by ED GRACZYK

Directed by David Bisett Produced by Jana White April 11 - May 4 Fri. & Sat. 7:30 pm. Sunday 2:30 pm Recommended for mature audiences

wimberleyplayers.org

THE WIMBERLEY PLAYHOUSE 450 Old Kyle Rd. 512-847-0575

17th Annual BUDA

Country Fair & Cook Off

April 26-27 • Buda City Park • Buda, TX SATURDAY 9 am-8 pm Sanctioned IBCA BBQ Cook-off BEST DRESSED WIENER DOG CONTEST 8AM Wiener Dog Races 10:30 am & 2 pm

Stephanie Pope and Letisha Scharff, 2014 Heritage Gala co-chairs, with the longhorn calf that will be auctioned off at the event April 12 in Dripping Springs. Photo courtesy Dr. Pound Historical Farmstead Museum Heritage Gala.

DRIPPING SPRINGS H Tickets and sponsorships for the 2014 Heritage Gala benefitting the Dr. Pound Historical Farmstead Museum have become a “bull market” as sales and sponsorships soar over previous years’ records - and a longhorn calf is added to the many interesting items up for auction at the April 12 lavish event.

Auction committee chair Laurie Halfpenny is excited about the growing list of amazing items up for silent and live auction at this year’s star-studded evening: the longhorn calf, several dinners and nights on the town (including one in the home of a famous local couple), a vacation for two, a diamond from Segners and a KitchenAid stainless steel French-door refrigerator.

The evening’s activities take place underneath festive tents on the grounds of Dripping Springs’ original pioneer homestead. This year’s theme, A Night in Old Tejas, recalls Texas’ Mexican Heritage through decoration, music and food.

FYI • Tickets are selling fast. Get yours at www.drpoundhistoricalfarmstead.com or call512-858-2030.

200 Arts & Crafts Booths • Food Live Music • Kids’ Activities “The Buda BEE” 4 pm $3 Gen. Admission Kids 12 & Under Get In FREE

Parking at Cabelas Drive and Old San Antonio Rd. next to the Post Office $5 Parking with Free Shuttles to the Park For info & Booth Space Availability 512-565-0505 512-787-4124

www.BudaLions.com

2 DAYS OF FAMILY FUN & ENTERTAINMENT

SUNDAY 9 am-5 pm Wiener Dog Races 10:30am FInals 3 pm 200 Arts & Crafts Booths Bake-Off Turn in by 10:30 am Judging at 11am Food Auction 2 pm Live Music • Kids Activities

BudaLions@BudaLions.com

Sponsored by the Buda Lions Club Proceeds return to the community.

HILL COUNTRY SUN R APRIL 2014 PAGE 13

Hill country calendar ®

WINES · SPIRITS · FINER FOODS

®

Savings

ON THE

ROCKS!

APRIL 19-20 GRUENE: Old Gruene Market Days. 10 am to 5 pm. Historic District. www.gruenemarketdays.org.

APRIL 23-27 RIVER REGION: 14th Annual Nature Quest. Learn from the experts at this outdoor nature festival through field trips, kayaking, workshops and other activities. Headquarters at Hill Country Nature Center, 830-966-2320. www.hillcountrynaturequest.com.

APRIL 25 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Aaron Navarro Band. Live music at Mercer Street Dance Hall. www.mercerstreetdancehall.com.

WIMBERLEY: Butterfly Crafts for Children. Free program. 3:30 pm. programs@ wimberleylibrary.org.

WIMBERLEY: St. Stephen’s School Earth Day PreK Event: 9:30 am to 11:30 am. Area preschoolers and families are invited to a fun and free way to celebrate Earth Day at St. Stephen’s School.Enjoy creative crafts for busy little hands.

Guests are invited to pack a picnic lunch

With lower prices on Texas’ largest selection of world-class wines, hard-tofind spirits and hundreds of craft beers, Spec’s is your on-the-way, less-to-pay for everyday store! CHEERS TO SAVINGS!®

TEXAS SUPERSTORE

SM

(512) 280-7400 • specsonline.com LOCATIONS ALL ACROSS CENTRAL TEXAS: AUSTIN • BASTROP • BEE CAVE • ELGIN GEORGETOWN • KERRVILLE MARBLE FALLS • NEW BRAUNFELS ROUND ROCK • SAN ANTONIO TEMPLE • WACO Spec’s selection includes over 100 stores in Texas!

PAGE 14 APRIL 2014 R HILL COUNTRY SUN

to enjoy on the playground after the festivities. www.ststeveschool.org.

APRIL 25-26 FREDERICKSBURG: Hill Country Wine and Music Festival. Wildseed Farms. www.hillcountrywineandmusic.com.

LLANO: Crawfish Open. Enjoy food, live music including Asleep at the Wheel and Mark Chesnutt, a golf tournament and more. www.llanocrawfishopen.com.

APRIL 25-27 AUSTIN: Food and Wine Festival. www. austinfoodandwinefestival.com.

DRIPPING SPRINGS: 27th Annual Founders Day Festival. Enjoy a grand parade, carnival, music, street dance, barbecue cook off, arts and crafts and more.

Downtown. 512-858-4725.

FREDERICKSBURG: Wings Over The Hills Nature Festival. www.wingstx.org APRIL 25-28 LAGO VISTA: Balcones Songbird Festival. Birding, nature tours, archery, adventures for kids, more. Balcones Canyonland National Wildlife Refuge. www. balconessongbirdfestival.org.

APRIL 26 BOERNE: Texas Corvette Association Open Car Show. www.visitboerne.com.

CANYON LAKE: Barbecue Cookoff. Enjoy food, auctions and family fun. www. canyonlakechamber.com.

DRIPPING SPRINGS: Aaron Navarro Band.www.mercerstreetdancehall.com.

FISCHER: Fischer Store School Community Center’s Fischer Follies. Dinner and talent presented by the community. 5:30 pm. Not to be missed! Reservations a must. www.FischerStoreSchoolCC.org.

KERRVILLE: Museum of Western Art Spring Roundup Exhibition and Sale. museumofwesternart.com.

SAN ANTONIO: Fiesta Family Fun Day at the Institute of Texan Cultures. 210-4582300 or visit TexanCultures.com.

WIMBERLEY: EmilyAnn Theatre and Gardens Butterfly Festival. See thousands of butterflies being released, enjoy crafts, games and more family friendly fun. www.emilyann.org.

APRIL 26-27 BUDA: 17th Annual Buda Country Fair and Cook Off. (See story, page 2.) World famous wiener dog races, bake off, barbecue cook off, arts and crafts booths, food, live music, kids’ activites and more at Buda City Park. Shuttles available. 512-5650505, 512-787-4124, www.BudaLions.com.

APRIl 30 - MAY 4 FREDERICKSBURG: Hill Country Film Festival. (See story, page 8.) This year’s festival features 75-plus films, including “Texas premiers.” hillcountryff.com.

MAY 3 AUSTIN: Maureen Taylor at Austin Geneaological Society Seminar. Internationally recognized expert on photograph identification and geneaology presents. austintxgensoc.org/seminar.

MAY 10 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Ducks Unlimited Banquet. Auctions, raffles, games, dinner. ducks.org.texas/events, 512-496-8333.

MAY 23-25 KERRVILLE: 11th Annual Texas Masters of Fine Art and Craft Invitational. Y.O. Ranch Resort Hotel. www.texasmasters.com.

LEAKEY: Philthy on the Frio. River float featuring music from Deryl Dodd, Matt Hillyer, Erica Perry and Phil Hamilton. philhamiltonmusic.com.

MAY 25 WIMBERLEY: 50 Shades of Glass - Gallery Opening and Exhibit. Display of newly designed glass shades, lamps and lighting at Wimberley Glassworks Gallery and Studio. Glassblowing demonstration. 5 pm to 8 pm. wgw.com, 512-213-2110.

DRIPPING SPRINGS: Photographers of Dripping Springs’ (PODS) Print Show.

Meet the artists and see the latest from the juried show. 3 pm to 7 pm. Trudy’s Four Star. www.photographersofds.com.

MAY 31 FREDERICKSBURG: Jaycees’ Annual Truck and Tractor Pull. 830-456-2698, rebecca.clark05@yahoo.com.

JUNE 11 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Burke Center for Youth Fun Raiser at Dripping Springs Ranch Park. An evening of barbeque, beverages, bids, bands and Bama Brown from KVET 98.1 FM. 512-557-3888, www.theburkecenter.com.

THE Hill Country event you don’t want to miss!

Friday Night Asleep at the Wheel Saturday Night Mark Chesnutt

Friday & Saturday, April 25-26 at Llano Golf Club & City Park

FOOD Friday & Saturday at Llano Park 11 am-7 pm

Boiled Crawfish, Bar-B-Que, Jambalaya, Potatoes and Corn!

CRAWFISH BY THE PLATE OR BY THE FLAT

ENTERTAINMENT at Llano Park Pavilion FRIDAY NIGHT: Asleep at the Wheel

FRIDAY & SATURDAY: ENJOY LIVE MUSIC ALL DAY Both Days!

SATURDAY NIGHT: Mark Chesnutt Admission

Friday: Free Until 7 pm ($5 after 7 pm) • Saturday: $10 ($15 after 7 pm)

SPECIAL EVENTS

Friday & Saturday Crawfish Golf Open Call 325-247-5100 SATURDAY: Crawfish Crawler 5k Walk/Run Arts & Crafts, Crawfish Races Motorcycle Fun Run. Call Chuck Bailey • 325-247-3880

Special Thanks To

Benefiting Llano Special Opportunities Center & Other Local Charities

325-247-2270 • llanocrawfishopen.com HILL COUNTRY SUN R APRIL 2014 PAGE 15

Automotive Parts and Supplies for Asian, Domestic & European Vehicles

WHOLESALE PARTS DIRECT WPD South Austin

400 Industrial Blvd • Austin, TX 78745 512-383-4552

WPD North Austin

9410 Reid Dr. • Austin, TX 78758 512-381-3127

WPD San Antonio

2450 Brockton St. • San Antonio, TX 78217 210-209-8694

Spring Special Bring in the paper for a 20% Discount on your ENTIRE PURCHASE!

Wimberley Pools & Outdoor Living SPECIALIZING IN

Custom In-Ground Pools & Renovations Serving Central Texas for 20 years Free Estimates Lifetime Warranty

512-585-7788 TheWimberleyPoolCo.com 13800 Ranch Road 12 • Wimberley, Texas

POOL SWIM READY FOR AS LOW AS $25,995 PAGE 16 APRIL 2014 R HILL COUNTRY SUN