Hill Country Sun, July 2015

July 2015 New Braunfels hosts

Lone Star Gourd Fest

Gourds transformed into works of art

R

Bruce Hooper World Blind Golf champion

R

Four Square Fridays Plenty of fun in historic Uvalde

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Hill Country Wildlife R Ernie Lee’s

Hill Country Poetry R The Hill Country’s most complete

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See gourds transformed into beautiful art F traditional art form produced by some of or centuries, artists have decorated the nation’s premier gourd artists.

Cultivated around the world for the surfaces of canvas, paper, stone, thousands of years, gourds played wood and other materials. an important part in early One of the most unique (and, societies where they were possibly oldest) venues for prized for their many uses. adornment is the ubiquitous After hollowing and and wonderfully utilitarian drying, gourds were gourd. employed as water and The hard outer shell of storage containers, cooking this fascinating fruit proves a utensils, musical instruments perfect medium for showcasing and many other practical incredible creativity proAward winning gourd art by items. duced with color, carving Shelia Guidry. Photo courtesy While beautiful in and combustion.

Texas Gourd Society. their natural state, it Over three exciting wasn’t long however days in welcoming New Braunfels July 31-August 2, the Texas before tribal artisans began adding Gourd Society will stage its 20th annual decoration to these domestic devices.

Over time, with the development 2015 Lone Star Gourd Festival.

Here, visitors can experience (and and mastery of various techniques, the acquire) myriad examples of this levels of sophistication of adornment

By Ernie Altgelt

soared resulting in exquisite works appreciated more for their esthetic appeal than function.

Many modern examples of the same will be on display (and for sale) at this year’s Lone Star Gourd Festival.

The festival, and its heated five-division competition will feature the works of 100 of the most recognized gourd artists (most from Texas), and will abound with an incredible assortment of painted, sanded, burned, carved, polished and accessorized gourd exteriors.

More than 150 individual pieces will be vying for top honors in the multiple categories.

The majority of entries will be available for purchase but will need to remain with the festival until its conclusion.

Gourd artist Rosa Semien with her unique artwork.

Some of these cre- Photo courtesy Texas Gourd Society. ations offer representations of fantastic figurines, eerie ceremonial-like masks, decorative heritage with intricate designs, amazing animal shapes and a host of ad- patterns and illustrations that are ditional surprising (and, often surreal) reminiscent of the work produced by subjects. ancient native practitioners.

Others reflect the gourd’s historic See LONE STAR GOURD FEST, page 10

Wimberley Strong.

Profits from this sterling silver custom Pandora charm benefit Wimberley’s beloved and iconic Rio Bonito Resort and 7A Resort & Frontier Town, both badly damaged in the Memorial Day flood. $55 plus tax

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13915 Ranch Road 12 • Wimberley, Texas 78676 512-847-1100 • Open Daily 10 am-5:30 pm PAGE 2 JULY 2015 R HILL COUNTRY SUN

Hill Country SUN July 2016 Volume 26 • Number 1 ISSN: 1524-2315 Entire contents copyright © 2015

by TD Austin Lane, Inc. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any fashion without the written consent of the publisher.

Kenzie, Luke and Julie Harrington Photo by Becky Roberson Photography.

Julie Spell Harrington Publisher/Advertising 512-484-9716 julie@hillcountrysun.com Melissa Maxwell Ball Editor/Design 512-569-8212 melissa@hillcountrysun.com Ernie Altgelt Colleen Brooks Ernie Lee Laurel Robertson C.J. Wright Writers Gerry Burns Delonn Bowie Adelle Spell Distribution

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.

• C over : Summer fun in the Texas Hill Country.

Wimberley’s beloved Blue Hole. Photo by Doug Carter.

Inset Photos Top Right Small town 4th of July fun in Utopia. Photo by Hattie Barham. Middle Boys swimming at Garner State Park. Photo courtesy TPWD. Bottom Left Fishing girl. Photo by Earl Nottingham, TPWD. • Deadline for calendar events is the 15th of each month.

Email events/releases to melissa@hillcountrysun.com. www.hillcountrysun.com www.facebook.com/HillCountrySun

INDEX

HENLY

Texas Hill Country Locator Map

© 2015 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

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hill country WILDLIFE

We are but a small part of “one great unit of creation”

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n this day, azure skies glimmer and Summer Tanagers chatter high in the trees, bringing a sense of contentment to the day. Reservoirs are full and rivers and streams again flow within their banks, with a tropical storm in the offing.

But long-awaited rains come at a price. Human lives are lost, homes and property destroyed. Wildlife also suffers.

Rising waters sweep away young birds huddled in nests among brush and trees along riverbanks, sweep away young Cliff Swallows nestled in mud homes beneath bridges.

After the last torrential rains, one observer described a female monarch butterfly as mostly gray, with some faded spots, with scales gone leaving wings that more closely resembled wax paper.

Despite frailty, she survived to lay eggs.

Inclement weather aside wild creatures often have a tenuous existence. In early spring, a pair of Eastern Phoebes built a nest atop a gutter downspout beneath our porch roof. Soon both parents were actively carrying insects to their four young.

Then one morning, the nest lay shambles, the nestlings gone. The adults persisted, flying up to the nest, never landing, seeking their young. Within a matter of days, however, they constructed a new nest atop a gutter downspout on the back of our house.

Chicks hatched and again the nest was scavenged, the babies gone. I noticed an adult removing material from the sec-

ond nest and suspect the pair is building yet a third, hopefully hidden from the suspected marauder, a Barred Owl often seen in the area.

Natural predators threaten the young and weak, for all living things must earn a living. Ultimately it comes down to survival of the fittest. Unfortunately we humans, at the top of the food chain, are not always fulfilling our role as stewards of the land. We weaken some species’ chances to survive.

Honeybees and Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD) have been discussed and studied over the past years. Fingers point to disease, parasites, varroa mites, pesticides, extreme weather and poor nutrition as causes for the collapse. Key to the disorder may well center on how commercial colonies of bees live their lives.

First bees are stressed when trucked from one monocultural farm to the next.

They arrive at, say, a blueberry farm where all they feed on and collect is blueberry nectar—exhausting work for, in the process, their feet collect pollen, weighing them down, requiring them to make frequent trips to their hives. In short order, hives are moved to another farm.

They travel the country, following the blooms: apples, cherries, almonds… , nectaring on the flowers of glyphosate herbicide- and neonicotinoid-treated plants.

Each growing season, over a million bee colonies travel the country, encountering bees from other hives, pollinating one crop at a time, their mono diets leaving See WILDLIFE, page 5

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them malnourished and more prone to disease. Consequently, they are treated with antibiotics to fend off bacterial infections. Insecticide strips are often placed inside their hives to ward off varroa mites.

And what happens to wild honeybees living in areas surrounded by monocultural farms? What do they feed on when the blooms have died?

Advocates say that for honeybees to survive—be they wild or commercial—a broad diversity of flowers is needed. Wildflowers and milkweed (for monarch butterflies) planted on crop margins, and on land set aside for wildlife habitat is a step toward sustaining healthy bee populations and reducing the need to truck hives.

Honeybees aren’t the only species garnering headlines because they are threatened. In the past 25 years, the eastern population of monarch butterflies has suffered a 90 percent decline, its migration in danger. The illegal logging at their wintering grounds has caused many monarchs to die when fewer trees expose them to winter storms. The Mexican government, however, is taking action to end this logging.

Another factor in their decline concerns monocultural crops—corn, soybean and canola—“Roundup Ready” crops that farmers spray with glyphosate herbicides to kill weeds, including milkweed, a flow-

WIMBERLEY ering plant attractive to many butterflies and the only plant monarch larva eat.

Land barren of milkweed leads to dire consequences for second-generation monarchs when they migrate through the Midwest in spring seeking to lay eggs, finding no milkweed to feed their next generation.

As with honeybees, monarchs also encounter neonicotinoids, a new class of pesticides used not only to treat crops, but soil and seeds, and the third monarch problem. Although neonicotinoid pesticides are restricted in Europe, the U.S. government has not acted.

Bats are another species suffering major losses in populations. More than 5.7 million in Eastern North America have succumbed to White-nose Syndrome (WNS) since the winter of 2006. Named for the white fungal growth found on the noses of infected bats (also found on wings and tail membrane), the disease kills from 90 to 100 percent of all bats living within a cave. Said to have originated in Europe and Asia where bats have, it is believed, developed immunity to the fungus, disease spores probably entered a little brown bat cave near Albany, NY on the clothes or shoes of a traveler. Since first detected, WNS has spread to nearly half of the U.S. and to five Canadian provinces, and now infects six other bat species.

Because bats consume moths, beetles and mosquitoes, they are vital to a healthy ecosystem. One bat can eat a thousand mosquito-sized insects every hour making them crucial to the health of humans and forests while saving agriculture billions of dollars per year.

Even as insects are needed to pollinate plants that grow crops, birds and bats keep insect populations under control—all designed to keep nature in balance, all key to growing much of the food we eat.

“The world, we are told, was made especially for man—a presumption not supported by all the facts... Why should man value himself as more than a small part of the one great unit of creation?” -- John Muir, naturalist and explorer.

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World Blind Golf champion Bruce Hooper A

By Ernie Altgelt

fter blindness unexpectedly entered Bruce Hooper’s life in 1998 and turned his world “upside down,” what the future would hold for the “high-achieving” salesman was admittedly, an uncomfortable unknown.

At the time, Bruce was a respected, traveling representative for the prestigious Spalding Sports Worldwide promoting golf equipment and successfully servicing retail outlets as well as private and public courses. Aside from his natural gift for salesmanship, his product line perfectly reflected his past familiarity with the game of golf.

His father played and encouraged his son who, as a child and young adult, eventually excelled at the sport, especially during his high school years spent at Alamo Heights. In 1962, the teenager took first place in the highly-competitive San Antonio City Junior Championship. And,

in 1963 and 1964, he comprised part of the four-man team that won “State” for his beloved campus.

By age 18, Bruce boasted a plus-2 handicap (that’s two better than a “zero” handicap) and was even offered a scholarship to Texas A & M. Then, for personal reasons, the young man decided to pursue other interests and, basically, quit playing serious golf.

However, with so much natural ability and acquired knowledge of the game, it wasn’t surprising that, by the early 1970s, Bruce was once again involved with golf – this time as a teacher, club repairman and golf course manager.

As he admits, “I wasn’t driven by a passion. Golf was just something I understood.” It was during this time that Spalding discovered their future “star” salesman signing the 32-year-old on in 1978 and heralding a career that would span 25 productive years ending only (and with

DRIPPING SPRINGS

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Husband and wife team Judy and Bruce Hooper on the golf course.

All photos courtesy Judy and Bruce Hooper. reluctance) when his sight deteriorated.

It was on a sales call in Corpus Christi when Bruce noticed something was wrong with his vision. As he recalls of that pivotal day, “I remember heading to my meeting and looking up at a street sign, and all of a sudden I couldn’t read the sign.”

After a friend drove him back to San

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PAGE 6 JULY 2015 R HILL COUNTRY SUN

Antonio he went to an ophthalmologist and received the news that his right eye’s central vision was gone and the left eye’s was soon to be gone. Bruce was diagnosed with a form of macular degeneration, an incurable eye disease where the center of the retina degenerates.

As the illness ran its course, he was left with a small amount of peripheral vision, but over the subsequent years, that has worsened as well. Eventually unable to work as an outside salesman, Bruce was fortunate to have had disability insurance which continued to provide financial security but, the otherwise healthy 52-year-old, forced to abandon his career, was left wondering what he could do to make his life meaningful again.

After “puttering” around for an unfulfilled year, a surprised (but skeptical) Bruce was invited by a close friend to go “play a round of golf.” While reluctant, he accepted. He knew the fundamentals wouldn’t be a problem but he would have to totally rely on his buddy for direction, yardages, wind factors and other key information. Although not a great initial 18 holes, it proved to be fun and soon led to other outings.

Enter the world of blind golf. As Bruce grew more comfortable with the sightless version of the game, he became intrigued when he discovered that there were others playing with the same limitations he possessed – in fact, playing competitively in sanctioned tournaments.

Eager to pit his skills against others equally challenged, he entered his first official “blind” tournament in 2002 in Dallas where (with his capable wife now acting as indispensible coach, caddy and counselor) he finished in second!

Since then, Bruce and wife Judy have gone on to win seven U.S. National Championships, three Canadian Open championships, a World Blind Golf Championship held in Tokyo, Japan and, most recently (in June of this year) the McCulloch Memorial Cup Blind Match Play Championship in Rittman, Ohio.

As further proof of his golfing prowSee BRUCE HOOPER, page 10

DRIPPING SPRINGS

Ernie Lee Hill Country Poetry

S

pring has lingered in the Hill Country this year. Lots of rain brought both blessings

and tragedy. Our hearts Cold still lingers as the days grow long go out to those who have been affected. We still Blushing buds begin to swell have those cool evenings Song birds begin to sing as well and balmy breezes. By the Stains of green begin to show and early time you read this, we may well be into those spring flowers begin to grow dog days of summer. FireCrickets are calling for warm spring rain flies have been abundant building nests and seeking mates this year, as have the wild flowers. hoping spring will not be late John Pickett of Woodcreek, contributed the Then spring time comes with morning bright poem I want to share with you. He is a retired regisBlushing roses...what a sight tered nurse with nursing Sweet songs and merriment with and human resources defeathered flight grees. John has written for the last 50 years. His other Flashes of color in warm sunlight interests are gardening On aster wings each seeks a mate and fishing. His poem is Using old grass and twigs they build a nest entitled “Late Spring.”

If you are like me, you A moment is taken to sit and rest love to sit out in the eveThen cracking eggs reveal new life ning and listen to the sounds of the night. What a pleasure it is to sit with Hunger mouths must be fed loved ones and just A long hard day then time for bed breathe the night air as the Feathers grow and colors turn. The fledging sun goes down. All of the blessings of those times move about...It is time to learn are reflected in this feelOn wings of wind each must try good poem.

On a summer day each will fly I find it interesting how John interspersed the rhymes into the poem.

This poem is a form of free verse that uses some rhyme sometimes. Free cold swim, or just being alive in our great verse is normally defined as a poem that outdoors. I can’t wait to see what you does not rhyme or have meter, and blank come up with! verse usually has not rhyme but does Send your poems to Ernie Lee at have meter or rhythm. bardoftheblanco@hotmail.com.

In this example, John is writing withI’ll read each one, and print the one out rhythm, but in a nod to rhyming tra- we liked best. We’ll talk about why and ditionalists (such as myself) he loops us in how the poem worked. We’ll discuss the with just enough rhyme to be satisfying. devices the poet used, such as simile or Well done, John. metaphor.

Thank you all for continuing to read Don’t be shy. You will be surprised the Bard of the Blanco column. Please how many people are already writing keep it up, and continue to contribute things down and keeping them hidden. your poems.

What a tragedy – you never know when The Bard recently returned from a something you write may touch someone tour of the Northwestern states of Idaho, else.

Oregon, Washington, and Montana. What Thank you for participating in this an inspiring place to visit. column. If you are a published or pracThe Bard also appeared at the Drip- ticed poet, you can reach out and share ping Springs Library in May with Tony your work with us. Give us some insight Blisard and Doyle Fellers. We had a great into your poem. How, why, and what time. Come out to a reading and share method you chose to express your work. your poetry with us.

I’m pleased and honored to be your Our subject next time will be Summer host and facilitator. (in the Hill Country, of course). You can So, until next time, happy writing. write about almost anything—the heat, a I’ll be waiting to read YOU!

Late Spring

— John Pickett

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HILL COUNTRY SUN R JULY 2015 PAGE 7

FRIO/SABINAL RIVER VALLEY

Four Square fun in historic Uvalde

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ust 85 miles west of San Antonio lies a unique, small town with beautifully preserved, old-time charm. With a population of approximately 18,000, Uvalde is a popular spot among tourists, shoppers, and even hunters. Its downtown square is located where two of the longest highways in the United States intersect.

Highway 90 and Highway 83 create the four squares of this charming and historically pre- Musicians play as visitors stop to talk and sip at Four Square Friday. Photo courtesy Four Square Friday. served downtown.

Olivia Rish, Uvalde Chamber of Commerce Executive Director explains, “In our small town, the Uvalde history is very much preserved and represented everywhere you go, beginning downtown, with the Janey Slaughter Briscoe Grand Opera House. Our stores surround the Opera House and line downtown in their classically preserved 1920’s elegance.”

Four years ago, Uvalde’s downtown merchants began Sweet offerings at Four Square Friday. hosting a unique, monthly Photo courtesy Olivia Rish. event they named Four Square Friday. Merchants stay open late on Four Square Friday from 6 pm to 9 tiques to rustic and refurbished antiques, pm so visitors can enjoy shopping, commodern and western furniture stores, plimentary cocktails, light refreshments, jewelry stores, handbags, gifts and much music and art. In the fall, holiday music more.” accompanies shoppers as they stroll This diversity is reflected even in the through this historic district. Occasion- refreshments. “Merchants offer a variety ally, a runway show is part of the fun. of complimentary hors d’oeuvres and Uvalde’s shops are diverse, offering beverages ranging from the classic a little something for everyone at the sweets, champagne and wine, to cold free community event. Olivia explains, draft beers and nachos,” Olivia adds.

“Out of town guests can enjoy shops Uvalde is also a popular hunting which vary from some of the best in ur- destination, due to abundant exotic and ban to upscale modern clothing bou- See FOUR SQUARE FRIDAY, page 9

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PAGE 8 JULY 2015 R HILL COUNTRY SUN

FRIO/SABINAL RIVER VALLEY

FOUR SQUARE FRIDAY, from page 8 native wildlife. Hunting is a year-round activity and a large selection of hunting gear is available in local shops.

“Being that Uvalde is home to some of the best hunting Texas can offer, visitors come to Uvalde seasonally... hunting apparel and jewelry has grown in popularity among both men and women,” says Olivia. “Uvalde has just what every outdoors-woman needs.”

If that hunting “must-have” is a bling-y adornment (such as a shot-gun shell bracelet) Uvalde’s got you covered.

Merchants also offer seasonal hunting bling, which is very popular. Olivia laughs, “Oh, the ladies love it, they love

to shoot their shotguns with their bling on their wrist.”

At a time when there are fewer traditional downtowns in America, Uvalde is proud of theirs. Olivia smiles, “Uvalde offers a historic downtown whose merchants have a big place in the hearts of Uvaldeans. Each shop has something unique for every visitor to take back home with them.”

FYI • Four Square Friday is the second Friday of each month from 6 pm to 9 pm, year-round in downtown Uvalde at the intersection of Highways 90 and 83. Upcoming Four Square Fridays are July 10 and August 14, 2015.

For more information, call 800-588-2533 or visit the web sites at www.visituvalde.com or www.uvalde.org.

Hot Texas Swing Band celebrates CD release

T

he Hill Country’s own Hot Texas Swing Band has just released their newest CD, “Ain’t Dead Yet.” The group will celebrate with CD release parties at Gruene Hall on Saturday, July 18 from 1 pm to 5 pm and at Austin Beer Garden Brewing (ABGB) on Sunday, July 19 from 4 pm to 7 pm. They will be featured guests on Fox 7 TV’s Good Day Austin show Thursday, July 16.

“Ain’t Dead Yet” includes 13 tracks of Texas dance hall, western swing, Latin and rockabilly music. Band leader Alex Dormont (Academy of Western Artist’s 2012 Male Vocalist of the Year and author of AWA’s 2012 Western Swing Song of the Year) wrote seven songs on the Photo courtesy Hot Texas Swing Band.

CD; two were written by the late Johnny Gimble, a friend and mentor to Alex and the person to whom the the CD is dedicated.

“I am very proud of this CD and believe it captures the hard-driving energy that the Hot Texas Swing Band delivers at live performances,” Alex says. Musicians featured on “Ain’t Dead Yet” include Alex, upright bass and vocals; Selena Rosanbalm, vocals; Karen Biller, drums; Cat Clemons, guitar; Erik Hokkanen, fiddle; Scott Benner, tenor sax; Jimmy Shortell, trumpet and Denny Mathis, steel guitar.

The Hot Texas Swing Band’s first CD (self-titled), released in 2012, was a Top Five Finalist for Album of the Year and Song of the Year and the band was named a Top Five finalist for Group of the Year by the Academy of Western Artists Their second CD, ‘Bout Time, released in 2013, included “Way Too Soon” which was named AWA’s Western Swing Song of the Year. The band was also recognized as a Top 10 Jazz Band for three years in a row by the Austin Chronicle Reader’s Poll.

“Ain’t Dead Yet” was recorded at The Zone recording studio in Dripping Springs and will be sold at Waterloo Records in Austin, Lone Star Record’s Superfly Store in San Marcos, and online at www.HotTexasSwingBand and on iTunes and Amazon.com.

FYI • For more information, visit the Hot Texas Swing Band web site at www.HotTexasSwingBand.com.

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French Country Antiques, Collectibles Gifts, Books, Jewelry, Accessories Closed Sun & Mon • 282 Main St, 830-966-5544 mainstreetutopia.com

830-966-2320

A Summer Tradition Since 1985

Frio River & GSP T-Shirts H Shorts Blue Bell HHawaiian Shaved Ice H Consuela Hats/Caps H Flip Flops H River Gear Yellow Box HJewelry H Gifts H and More!

Sunday-Thursday 9:30-5:30 • Friday-Saturday 9:30-6:30

Check Us Out on Highway 127 in Concan, TX

830-232-6300 • friosdryfifty.com Utopia is a charming Hill Country town nestled in the Sabinal Canyon between Bandera & Garner Park

The Laurel Tree

Seasonal gourmet cuisine in a charming setting Open Saturday for lunch & dinner 18956 Hwy 187, 830-966-5444 for reservations utopiagourmet.com

Utopia Golf

Prettiest 9-Hole Course in Texas Home of the movie “Seven Days in Utopia” 20567 Hwy 187, 830-966-5577 UtopiaGolf.com

HILL COUNTRY SUN R JULY 2015 PAGE 9

FRIO/SABINAL RIVER VALLEY Cabins on the Frio River Where memories can be made for a lifetime....

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830-232-5955 • www.cypressfrio.com

Casa Rio

Cabin Rentals

Offering River Frontage at River House & very near river at Hideaway and Cottage.

3978 CR 348 • Concan • friocasario@hctc.net

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River Rim Resort

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at River Rim Resort on the Frio

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

Welcome to the Hill Country

Published by the Hill Country SUN

YOUR GUIDE TO

Dining • Lodging • Events T hings to Do & More in Concan, Camp Wood, Leakey, Rio Frio, Utopia Uvalde & Vanderpool

PICK UP A COPY!

Your complete guide to the Hill Country River Region!

Welcome to the

Hill Country River Region

Call Julie 512-484-9716 • email julie@hillcountrysun.com PAGE 10 JULY 2015 R HILL COUNTRY SUN

BRUCE HOPPER, from page 6 ess beyond the blind-only competitions, in 2010, 11-handicapped Bruce (and Coach Judy) even bested some very serious “sighted” players by winning the consolation round of the San Antonio City Senior Match Play Championship – wow!

When not honing his skills on the links, Bruce and Judy proudly serve as board members for San Antonio’s very worthwhile Lighthouse for the Blind.

He is also a co-founder of American Blind Golf, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the sport, and serves on the PGA of America’s Disabled Golf Committee.

With continued unflagging energy, he also enjoys (and is available for) motivational speaking, handles the household cooking and even dabbles in art.

While obviously wishing he was still sighted, the now 66-year-old Bruce freely admits that blindness coupled with golf have surprisingly allowed him to experi-

Judy and Bruce Hooper.

Photo courtesy Judy and Bruce Hooper. ence, achieve and contribute in ways he never would have before, and, “that’s been a joyful eye-opener.” Fore!

LONE STAR GOURD FEST, from page 2 Where uniqueness and individuality abound however, two commonalities do exist in all the works on display – the incredible technical skill required coupled with a high degree of imagination.

As C. C. Rice, secretary for the Texas Gourd Society, states, “Last year was a great show. Many who attended had never seen this type of art before. Everyone was just blown away by the overwhelming talent, creativity and expertise encountered. It truly needs to be seen to be believed.” And, with a smile she adds, “Since gourds are so prolific in the Texas Hill Country, maybe this year’s festival will inspire a new generation of artists.”

Most importantly for the veteran gourd enthusiast and first-timer alike, attend- Gourd artist Vickie Echols and her amazing gourd art. ees will have a chance to mix Photo courtesy Texas Gourd Society. and mingle with all of the Throughout this fun and educational participating artists, each eager to showcase (and sell) their amazing works while event (there will even be live music), as happily discussing in detail, the intrica- C.C. stresses, “Interaction on all levels will be paramount.” cies that comprise their unique art form.

FYI • The 2015 Lone Star Gourd Festival will be held Many of these accomplished “gourdists” will even be conducting fas- in the very accommodating, spacious and comfortable New cinating (and free) “live” demonstrations Braunfels Convention Center.

The very family-friendly event runs from Friday, July and hosting classes where invaluable techniques and tips will be gladly shared. 31 through Sunday, August 2. Hours are Friday and SaturSupporting vendors will also be of- day from 9 am to 5 pm and Sunday, from 9 am to 3 pm. Admisfering large selections of raw gourds, es- sion is $5 for adults and free for children 17-years-old or sential tools and gourd embellishments younger accompanied by an adult. Parking is plentiful and necessary for the successful practice of free. Snacks and beverages will be available. The Convention Center is located at 375 South Castell Avenue in New this special expression of creativity.

There will even be a “Kids’ Corner” Braunfels.

For more information about the 2015 Lone Star Gourd where youngsters can try their hand a Festival including entry requirements for the various compegourd art.

Attendees also have the chance to ac- titions, call 409-945-2892 or visit the Texas Gourd Society’s quire valuable prizes through multiple web site at www.texasgourdsociety.org. The Texas Gourd Society is a 501c3 charitable organization. free drawings and an exciting raffle.

Hill country calendar 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. Free music shows Monday through Thursday nights, Saturday and Sunday afternoons. www.gruenehall.com.

EVERY SUNDAY BEE CAVE: Thundering Paws Pet Adoption Event. Noon to 4 pm at PetSmart, 12812 Shops Parkway #400. adoptions@ thunderingpaws.org, 512-402-9725.

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. 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 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 Meets. First Baptist Church. 512-8587960.

EVERY TUESDAY THROUGH SUNDAY WIMBERLEY: A premier hand blown glass lighting and art glass studio since 1992, Wimberley Glassworks hosts glass blowing demonstrations for travelers and art glass enthusiasts from around the world. wgw.com, 512-213-2110.

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

SECOND TUESDAYS WIMBERLEY: Art Society of Wimberley (ASW) Meeting. 6:30 pm at the Art Room, 100 Melody Way, Suite H. Please email msalaun@austin.rr.com for more information.

THIRD TUESDAYS NEW BRAUNFELS: Country Music.

Knights of Columbus. 830-629-4547.

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 Highway 290 and Ranch Road 12. March to December, rain or shine. www.cityofdrippingsprings.com.

WIMBERLEY: Farmers’ Market. Senior Citizen’s Activity Center on Ranch Road 12. 512-264-1637.

THIRD WEDNESDAYS DRIPPING SPRINGS: Cook Off Club. 6:30 pm. VFW Hall. Email ryoncrew@yahoo. com for more information.

FOURTH WEDNESDAYS WIMBERLEY: Hill Country Neighbors.

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

EVERY WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY, FRIDAY WIMBERLEY: Live music at Cypress Creek Cafe. Check listings at www.cypresscreekcafe.com EVERY THURSDAY DRIPPING SPRINGS: Coffee House with Light Dinners, Desserts and Open Mic. Hours are 6 pm to 9 pm. Thyme and Dough.

512-894-0001.

DRIPPING SPRINGS: Thursdays with Doug Moreland and Flying Armadillos. www.mercerstreetdancehall.com.

DRIPPING SPRINGS: Live Music at Smoke ‘N Hops. smokenhops.com.

FIRST THURSDAY DRIPPING SPRINGS: First Thursday.

Participating businesses offer special events, food and music plus sale items. 5 pm to 9 pm. www.drippingspringstx.org.

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

SECOND THURSDAY WIMBERLEY: Hill Country Bead Society.

Meeting. Wimberley Community Center.

1 pm. Marilyn Pierce at mp@smpierce.net.

THIRD THURSDAY WIMBERLEY: Susanna’s Kitchen Coffeehouse presents some of the best in the Hill Country’s musical talent. For listing of performers, visit the web site at www. wimberleyumc.org.

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 KNBT-92.1 FM Radio. 4 pm to 7 pm. 830-629-5077.

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

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.

UVALDE: Four Square Friday Enjoy late night shopping, food, live music and art at the event named for town’s original design with four town squares. 6 pm to 9 pm.

Downtown. www.visituvalde.com.

WIMBERLEY: Wimberley Community Civic Club Meeting. (September through November, January through May) 11 am at Chapel in the Hills, 14601 Ranch Road 12. Milly Maxey at millymaxey@gmail. com or Aurora LeBrun at 512-847-3595.

THIRD FRIDAY WIMBERLEY: Wimberley Parkinson Association Meets at Chapel in the Hills Community Church. Speakers on subjects pertaining to Parkinson, members share happenings. 11 am at 14601 Ranch Road 12. Call Gae Koen at 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 SATURDAY AUSTIN: Austin Farmers Market. Republic Square. 512-236-0074.

AUSTIN: Sunset Valley Farmers Market.

Barton Creek Mall. 512-280-1976.

BANDERA: Flying L Ranch Chuck Wagon Dinner. Barbecue, wagon rides, roping lessons, branding, and more. Details at www.flyingl.com.

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

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

FISCHER: Jackson Open Air Market.

Hours are 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.

EVERY SATURDAY WIMBERLEY: Tour Jacob’s Well. Hear stories about floods, divers, experience beauty of spring that started the town. 10 am. www.jacobswellspring.org.

WIMBERLEY: Arnosky Family Farms Market. Flowers, fresh veggies, cheeses, more. Ranch Road 2325, Highway 165.

830-833-5428.

WIMBERLEY: Saturday Evening Dinners at the Blair House Inn. www.blairhouseinn.com.

UTOPIA: Lunch and Dinner Served at the Laurel Tree. A special dining experience. www.utopiagourmet.com.

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

BANDERA: First Saturday Book Sale.

Public Library. 830-796-4213.

DRIFTWOOD: Driftwood Community Club meets to enhance community spirit.

Dinner at 7 pm. www.driftwoodtx.org 512829-5101 WIMBERLEY: Market Days. (March through December).

475-plus booths, free admission. 7 am to 4 pm. www.shopmarketdays.com.

SECOND SATURDAY CASTROVILLE: Market Trail Days. Houston Square. 830-539-2316.

WIMBERLEY: Second Saturday Gallery

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

~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

Historically used as functional vessels for food & water, artists get creative with this organic canvas at the largest gourd gathering in the state!

H Lone Star H

Gourd Festival July 31 - August 2 Opens daily at 9 am • $5 Admission

New Braunfels Civic Center

GOURDS GALORE! Gourd Art Raffle • Competition Vendors • Demonstrations People’s Choice Awards & More!

Classes start July 29. Teachers, scouts, kids’ organizations: register for a free gourd project complete with supplies!

www.texasgourdsociety.org HILL COUNTRY SUN R JULY 2015 PAGE 11

HILL COUNTRY CALENDAR

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Trail. 15 galleries around Square open late offering art, wine, appetizers. Facebook. com/SecondSaturdayGalleryTrail SECOND AND FOURTH SATURDAY WIMBERLEY: Toastmasters Club, learn public speaking and leadership skills.

10:30 am at the Wimberley Village Library.

512-913-4804 for information.

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.

FOURTH SATURDAY AND SUNDAY Johnson City: Market Days. Food, artisans, vendors and more. 830-868-7684, JohnsonCityTexasChamber.com.

JULY 1 - JANUARY 16, 2015 AUSTIN: “Ladies and Gentlemen ...The Beatles.” Traveling exhibit explores Beatles’ impact on American pop culture, including fashion, art, advertising, media and music from 1964-66, when the British boy band was at its peak. LBJ Presidential Library. www.lbjlibrary.org.

JULY 1-3 SAN MARCOS: “Homegrown: Austin Music Posters, 1967 to 1982.” Poster artists in the late 1960s, ’70s and ’80s visually evoked the sound and defined the culture of Austin just as the city was establishing itself as one of the most vital music

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scenes in the country. More than 125 vintage pieces from the Wittliff Collections’ poster archives document history and testify to artists’ mastery of the poster form using hand drawings and creative print techniques. www.thewittliffcollections.txstate.edu.

JULY 1-4 WIMBERLEY: “The Wizard of Oz.” EmilyAnn Theatre and Gardens. www. emilyann.org, 512-847-6969.

WIMBERLEY: 70th Annual VFW Rodeo.

Offers live entertainment and nightly rodeo action including bull riding, tiedown calf roping, bareback bronc riding, steer wrestling, team roping, women’s breakaway roping, women’s barrel racing, calf scrambles and mutton bustin’.

Fireworks light up the sky on July 4.

Wimberley Valley Veterans Park. www. texasvfw.net, 512-847-6441.

JULY 1-6 AUSTIN: “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.” Featuring more than 200 items, exhibition also highlights holdings related to Lewis Carroll and his Alice stories, including letters, hand drawn illustrations and photographs. Harry Ransom Center. www.hrc.utexas.edu. victims.

JULY 1 - SEPTEMBER 6 AUSTIN: “Impressionism and the Caribbean: Francisco Oller and His Transatlantic World.” Blanton Museum of Art. www.blantonmuseum.org.

JULY 2-4 WIMBERLEY: 70th Annual VFW Rodeo.

Offers live entertainment and nightly rodeo action including bull riding, tiedown calf roping, bareback bronc riding, steer wrestling, team roping, women’s breakaway roping, women’s barrel racing, calf scrambles and mutton bustin’.

Fireworks light up the sky on July 4.

Wimberley Valley Veterans Park.www. texasvfw.net, 512-847-6441.

JULY 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 HUTTO: Co-op Market Nights. Market in the downtown historic district features locally grown produce, handmade arts and crafts, homemade baked goods, soaps, canned goods and entertainment.

Hutto Co-op Gin. www.visithutto.com.

JULY 2-19 AUSTIN: Austin Chamber Music Festival. Various venues. www.austinchambermusic.org.

JULY 2-26 KERRVILLE: American Plains Artists’ Award Show. Kerr Arts and Cultural Center. www.kacckerrville.com.

JULY 3-4 BRADY: July Jubilee. Parade, mud volleyball tournament, barbecue luncheon, fireworks and an old-fashioned street dance on the historic downtown courthouse square. www.bradytx.com.

JULY 3, 4, 5 JOHNSON CITY: The Sculpture Ranch and Galleries. Galleries filled with artwork and a hundred large-scale outdoor sculptures. Free admission. 10 am to 6 pm the first weekend of each month and by appointment. www.SculptureRanch. com, 830-868-5244.

KINGSLAND: Aquaboom Fourth of July

Celebration The largest Fourth of July Celebration in the Highland Lakes includes parades on land and in the water, a remote-control aircraft show, cook-offs, a classic car show, art and crafts, food, a golf tournament, horseshoes and washers tournaments, a poker run, street dance, water activities and fireworks. Kingsland Chamber Grounds. www.kingslandchamber.org.

JULY 3-19 AUSTIN: Austin Chamber Music Center’s 19th Annual Music Festival. austinchambermusic.secure.force.com/ticket.

JULY 3 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Tejas Brothers and Silo Road. www.mercerstreetdancehall. com.

FREDERICKSBURG: First Friday Art Walk. Fine art galleries offer special exhibits, demonstrations, refreshments and extended viewing hours the first Friday of every month. www.ffawf.com.

WIMBERLEY: Independence Day Parade.

Hometown community celebration along Ranch Road 12 begins at 10 am. www. wimberley.org. 512-847-2201.

JULY 4 AUSTIN: Symphony and Fireworks. Free fireworks show and performance by the Austin Symphony at Auditorium Shores, 950 West Riverside Drive. www.roadwayevents.com.

BANDERA: Market Day. Features local arts and crafts. Courthouse Lawn. www. banderatexasbusiness.com/market-days.

BANDERA: Pet Parade. Enter anything that you can lead, ride or carry—even if you don’t have a pet, you are welcome to dress up as one! Event includes costume judging at 10 am before the parade begins at 10:30 am. Bandera City Park, 1102 Maple Street. 830-796-3045.

BRADY: July Jubilee. Parade, mud volleyball tournament, barbecue, fireworks and an old-fashioned street dance on the historic downtown courthouse square. www.bradytx.com.

DRIPPING SPRINGS: Fourth of July Fire in the Sky at Dripping Springs Ranch Park. www.drippingspringstx.org, 512858-4740.

JOHNSON CITY: July 4 Spangle Dangle Parade and Celebration. Begins at 10 am with a parade around the courthouse. washer pitching and other activities. The day ends with fireworks at dusk. Blanco County Fairgrounds. www.spangledangle.com.

KERRVILLE: Hill Country Auto Clubs Open Car Show. Cars, food and live music at Kerr County Courthouse, 700 Main St. 10 am to 4 pm. www.hillcountryautomobileclub.com KYLE: July 4 Independence Day Celebration. Includes golf tournament, live music, family activities and a large fireworks show. www.kylepard.com, 512-262-3939.

LAGO VISTA: Fourth of July Firecracker Race, Parade and Fireworks. Race and fun run, parade and full day of family fun on the shores of Lake Travis. Enjoy food, live music, arts and crafts, family games, talent-show finals and fireworks at the end of the day. Bar K Recreational Park. www. lagovistajuly4.org.

Hill country calendar LEAKEY: SA Lights, a Journey Tribute Band. Live music at Buckhorn Bar and Grill. www.thebuckhornbargrill.com.

LEAKEY: July Jubilee and Rodeo. Includes a patriotic parade at 10 am., arts and crafts, food vendors, rodeo events Friday and Saturday, and a street dance Saturday night. Courthouse Square. www. friocanyonchamber.com, 830-232-5222.

MARBLE FALLS: Community Fireworks Display at Lakeside Park. www.ci.marblefalls.tx.us, 830-693-2815.

NEW BRAUNFELS: Fourth of July Celebration. Includes a parade at 9:15 am and fireworks at Landa Park at 9:45 pm. www. innewbraunfels.com.

STONEWALL: All-American Chili CookOff. Groups of 70 world-class cooks compete in this CASI-sanctioned event to win qualifying points toward the Terlingua International Chili Championship. Becker Vineyards. www.beckervineyards.com.

STONEWALL: July 4 at the Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm. Experience how German pioneers celebrated Independence Day in 1915. Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site. www.tpwd. state.tx.us/state-parks/lyndon-b-johnson.

UTOPIA: Independence Day Parade and Fireworks. Parade starts at 3 pm and fireworks begin at dark. Utopia City Park.

WIMBERLEY: Wimberley Lions Market Day. Stroll along a shaded path to more than 475 booths filled with a wide variety of arts, crafts, antiques, clothing and more. Wimberley Lions. www.ShopMarketDays.com, 512-847-2201.

JULY 4-5 FREDERICKSBURG: Pacific Combat Living History Program. See demonstration of WWII weaponry, clothing, training and tactics of U.S. and Japanese military complete with tank and flame thrower. National Museum of the Pacific War Combat Zone. www.pacificwarmuseum.org.

JULY 4-5, 18-19 FREDERICKSBURG: Live Pari-Mutuel Horse Racing. Watch live quarter horse and thoroughbred races. Gillespie County Fairgrounds on Texas 16 South. www. gillespiefair.com.

JULY 4, 11, 18, 25 BANDERA: Flying L Ranch Chuck Wagon Dinner Includes barbecue, wagon rides, roping lessons, hat and pistol branding, archery, old-fashioned photos, a cowboy stage show, gunslingers, line dancing and more. www.flyingl.com.

JULY 6-12 LAMPASAS: Spring Ho Festival. Includes a carnival, contests, kiddie fishing derby, a pet parade, arts-and-crafts vendors, diaper derby, barbecue cook-off, dance on the square, 10K and 1-mile runs, the Spring Ho Grand Parade, washer and horseshoe pitching, live music and more. Various locations. www.springho.com.

JULY 7 BANDERA: Cowboy Capital Opry. Grand Old Opry-style entertainment hosted

by Gerry and Harriet Payne. Silver Sage Community Center, 803 Buck Creek. www.silversagecorral.org.

JULY 7 , 21 BOERNE: Abendkonzerte. Listen to tradi-

tional German music and tales from Boerne’s historic past from the Boerne Village Band. Main Plaza. www.boerne-tx. gov/parks.

JULY 9-11 MASON: 51st Annual Mason County Rodeo and Roundup Weekend. 325-3475758.

JULY 9, 16, 23 AUSTIN: Nature Nights. Free, fun explorations of plants, animals and the ecology of Central Texas. Enjoy hikes, talks and hands-on learning at Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. wildflower.org.

JULY 10 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Tracie Lynn. www. mercerstreetdancehall.com.

UVALDE: Four Square Friday. Enjoy late night shopping, food, live music and art at this monthly event named for the town’s original design with four town squares.

Downtown. www.visituvalde.com.

JULY 10-AUGUST 2 WIMBERLEY: “Catch Me If You Can.” Presented by The Wimberley Players.

Shows are Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm and Sundays at 2:30 pm. Wimberley Playhouse, 450 Old Kyle Road. www. wimberleyplayers.org.

JULY 11 BOERNE: Second Saturday Art and Wine.

Enjoy complimentary beverages and hors d’oeuvres with fantastic art in local galleries. Various locations. www.boerne-tx. gov/parks.

DRIPPING SPRINGS: Stephen Chadwick. www.mercerstreetdancehall.com.

KYLE: Kyle Market Days Features local

vendors, arts and crafts, farm-to-market items, and live music. City Square Park. www.kylepard.com.

WIMBERLEY: Second Saturday Gallery Trail. More than a dozen galleries offer wine, snacks and art displays from 4 pm to 7 pm. Wimberley Square. www.wimberleyarts.org.

JULY 11-12 BOERNE: Market Days. Hundreds of festive booths display everything from collectibles and nostalgia to modern innovations, food and live entertainment.

Main Plaza. www.boernemarketdays. com.

JULY 12 BANDERA: Frontier Times Museum Cowboy Camp. Enjoy traditional cowboy music, or bring your own guitar and join in the song circle. Frontier Times Museum, 510 13th Street. www.frontiertimesmuseum.org.

BOERNE: Moondance Concert. Music under the oak trees and stars at the Cibolo Nature Center. www.cibolo.org.

JOHNSON CITY: Art, Wine and Live Music. Tour local galleries on the last Saturday of each month from 4 pm to 8 pm.

Taste Wine + Art Gallery. www.tastewineart.com.

KERRVILLE: Second Sunday Summer Serenade. Free concert on banks of the Guadalupe, features Dimensions in Blue, the U.S. Air Force Band of the West. Bring lawn chairs, blankets and picnic baskets.

Free lemonade, water available. 7:30 pm.

Louise Hays Park, 202 Thompson Drive. www.comerica.com.

JULY 12-14 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Hill Country Cutting Horse Show. www.drippingspringsranchpark.com.

JULY 16 AUSTIN: Third Thursday at the Blanton Museum of Art. Free day of art and activities features yoga in the galleries, tours, a film screening, happy hour specials and more. www.blantonmuseum.org.

WIMBERLEY: Susanna’s Kitchen Coffeehouse presents Shake Russell and Michael Hearne. Doors open 7 pm; music at 7:30 pm. Free child care by prior arrangement. Tamales, pie, pizza, coffee, soft drinks. Wimberley United Methodist Church, corner Ranch Road 12 and County Road 1492. www.wimberleyumc.org, 512-722-3316.

JULY 17 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Omar and the Howl-

WIMBERLEY PLAYERS PRESENT

Based on the DreamWorks Motion Picture

Book by TERRENCE MCNALLY Music by SCOTT WITTMAN & MARC SHAIMAN July 10 - August 2 PLUS Preview Performance Benefitting Flood Relief July 9 FRI. & SAT. 7:30 PM SUNDAY 2:30 PM Directed by Tyler King Produced by Lynn & Allen Adelson Executive Producer Adam Witko

August 15

Cody Jo Hodges

Huge Musical

based on an incredible true story!

July 25

Aaron Einhouse Every Fri Night

All-You-Can-Eat Catfish

Every Fri & Sat Steak Night Bring your own catch or kill & we will be happy to cook it!

Actors Kathryn Land and Michael Wheeler

July 31

Dunnville

BEVERAGE BARN Open 7 DAYS A WEEK Mon-Sat 9am-11pm, Sun noon-10pm Bar Open Mon-Thurs 11 am-10 pm, Fri 11 am - 12 am Sat 11 am-1 am, Sun noon-10 Grill Open Mon-Sat 11 am-10 pm, Sun 11 am-10 pm

LOCATED ON 83 BETWEEN CONCAN & LEAKEY

830-232-4755 • www.thebuckhornbargrill.com

WWW.WIMBERLEYPLAYERS.ORG BOX OFFICE 512-847-0575 The Wimberley Playhouse 450 Old Kyle Rd. CATCH ME IF YOU CAN is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MIT. Licenses and Scripts for all shows in the Wimberley Players 2015 Season generously underwritten by an anonymous donor.

HILL COUNTRY SUN R JULY 2015 PAGE 13

HILL COUNTRY CALENDAR ers. www.mercerstreetdancehall.com.

JULY 17-18 MARBLE FALLS: Marble Falls Rodeo Includes rodeo events, a downtown parade and dance. Charles Taylor Arena. www. marblefalls.org.

TAYLOR: TRA Rodeo Includes adult and children’s rodeo events and a dance afterward. East Williamson County Event Center. www.taylorrodeo.com.

JULY 17-19 FREDERICKSBURG: Fredericksburg Trade Days. Shop more than 350 vendors in six barns, acres of antiques, a biergarten, live music and more. Seven miles east of town off U.S. Highway 290. www. fbgtradedays.com.

JULY 18 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Michael Myers. www.mercerstreetdancehall.com.

FREDERICKSBURG: Night in Old Fredericksburg. Original celebration of German Heritage includes live music, food and other vendors. Gillespie County Fairgrounds. www.gillespiefair.com.

JULY 18-19 AUSTIN: Citywide Garage Sale. Palmer Events Center. www.cwgs.com.

GRUENE: Old Gruene Market Days Nearly 100 vendors offer uniquely crafted items and packaged Texas foods. 10 am to 5 pm, Gruene Historic District. www. gruenemarketdays.com.

JULY 24 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Bobby Mack. 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 .

PFLUGERVILLE: Pflugerville’s 50th Anniversary Birthday Party. City celebrates

50 years since its incorporation with live music, historical display, car show and a giant birthday cake. Pfluger Park. www. pflugervilletx.gov/pfifty.

JULY 24-26 FREDERICKSBURG: Hill Country Auto Swap Meet. Swap, car corral and flea market hosted by the Fredericksburg Vintage Car Club. Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park. www.fredericksburgcarclub.com.

JUNCTION: Disc Golf Sizzler Tournament. 100 teams participate in this PDGA disc golf tournament on course along Llano River. Junction County Park. www. junctiontexas.com.

JULY 25 BANDERA: National Day of the American Cowboy. Watch real cowboys from South Texas ranches compete in events that showcases teamwork and skills used every day on the ranch in the evening. Also includes a horse race in the afternoon and other events at the Frontier Times Museum. Mansfield Park. www. frontiertimesmuseum.org.

BURNET: Burnet Summer Concert Music Series. Enjoy of a great evening of music by Whiskey Myers in the Texas Hill Country. www.cityofburnet.com.

FREDERICKSBURG: Roots Music Concert. Bring a chair. Pioneer Museum. www.pioneermuseum.net.

LEAKEY: Aaron Einhouse. Live music. www.thebuckhornbargrill.com.

JULY 25 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Cornell Hurd Band. www.mercerstreetdancehall.com.

JOHNSON CITY: Art Walk in Johnson

PAGE 14 JULY 2015 R HILL COUNTRY SUN

City. Tour local galleries on the last Saturday of each month from 4 pm to 8 pm.

Various locations on Main and Nugent streets. www.lbjcountry.com.

KERRVILLE: UGRS River Clean Up. Community event to remove trash from the Guadalupe River and raise awareness about the problem of litter in the community. Flat Rock Lake Park, 3840 Riverside Drive, 830-896-5445. www.ugra.org/annualrivercleanup.html.

JULY 25-26 JOHNSON CITY: Market Days. Enjoy food, artisans and other vendors in the heart of Texas Wine Country on the fourth weekend of each month. 10 am to 5 pm Saturday and 10 am to 4 pm Sunday.

Memorial Park. www.lbjcountry.com.

JULY 26 AUSTIN: Lady Bird Tribute Day. Enjoy the gardens, art exhibits and special displays commemorates the date when President Johnson gave Lady Bird Johnson the pens from environmentally related legislation. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. www.wildflower.org.

FREDERICKSBURG: PCAA Concert in the Park. Free concert features the Nash Hernandez Orchestra. Marktplatz, 100 W. Main. www.tex-fest.com.

JULY 30-AUGUST 2 FREDERICKSBURG: “Annie, Jr.” Steve W. Shepherd Theater. www.fredericksburgtheater.org.

JULY 30-AUGUST 23 KERRVILLE: Kerr Arts and Cultural Center Exhibits. Includes the annual juried “Images” show, works by Joleen

Franklin and Stephanie Stone Perry, and 2 Gypsyz Art. Kerr Arts and Cultural Center. www.kacckerrville.com.

JULY 31 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Tessy Lou and the Shotgun Stars. www.mercerstreetdancehall.com.

LEAKEY: Dunnville. Live music. www. thebuckhornbargrill.com.

JULY 31-AUGUST 2 NEW BRAUNFELS: Lone Star Gourd Festival. (See story, page 2.) See gourds transformed into remarkable works of art at the New Braunfels Civic Convention Center. Classes, demonstrations, vendors and more. www.texasgourdsociety.org.

UVALDE: Hotter Than Hell 100-Mile Yard Sale. Shopping from Castroville to Brackettville, with stops in Uvalde, Knippa, Sabinal, D’Hanis. www.visituvalde.com.

AUGUST 7, 8, 9 JOHNSON CITY: The Sculpture Ranch and Galleries. Galleries filled with artwork, 100 large-scale outdoor sculptures.

Free admission. 10 am to 6 pm. www.

SculptureRanch.com, 830-868-5244.

AUGUST 15 LEAKEY: Cody Jo Hodges. www.thebuckhornbargrill.com.

SEPTEMBER 12 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Dripping With Taste Wine and Food Festival. Dripping Springs Ranch Park Event Center. www. drippingwithtaste.org.

SEPTEMBER 26 LAKEHILLS: 35th Annual Medina Lake Cajun Festival. www.cajunfestival-medinalake.com.

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