Hill Country Sun, May 2015 by Julie Harrington

May 2015 It’s wildflower season all year long at Wildflower Art Gallery in Wimberley

Remarkable work of Healing Horse Ranch Bringing renewal to horses & humans

Small town, big heart Utopia Ranch Rodeo Where cowboys never quit

C.J. Wrigh’t Hill Country Wildlife

Suzy Moehring Mallard’s Hill Country Parks

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C.J Wright

Season of song, beauty and renewal

hill country WILDLIFE

t begins before the first fresh sprigs push from the ground, on a late winter day when the sun blazes through the cold blue sky. From his high perch, a Northern Cardinal bursts into song, trilling a melodious “what-cheer, what-cheer birdie, birdie, birdie.” Deeper into the trees, a Tufted Titmouse fills the air with his song of “peter, peter peter.” As with titmice, some avian ballads are repetitive while others such as those of Northern Mockingbirds and Brown Thrashers present entire repertories. Though not always music to the human ear, woodpeckers, rather than vocalize, hammer against house sidings or even a gutter. Incredibly, a Pileated Woodpecker drums a tree at the rate of 15 beats a sec-

ond! As days warm, other resident birds join the chorus. Although the weather promises fairer days ahead and these morning symphonies lift our spirits with musings of spring, a male bird’s thoughts aren’t concerned with the forecast. His song—rather than heralding the approach of the vernal season—broadcasts his desire to attract a mate. His anthem declares, “This territory is mine.” His notes warn neighboring males, “Keep Out!” This beginning heralds the start of the breeding bird season. Soon, male migrants filter in, having risked an arduous journey, some from deep within South America. Why, when climate may be favorable throughout the year, do they leave their

PAGE 2 MAY 2015 R HILL COUNTRY SUN

tropical domains to embark on such travel? Thoughts are that the longer days of temperate climates allow them more time to forage for seasonally abundant food, and that the larger areas of land in the north where nest predators and parasites are less dense, makes northern climes more desirable for nesting. Dressed in breeding plumages, the male migrants lend their melodies to the ensemble, claiming their domain and proudly awaiting the arrival of the females who will check out not only their suitors’ territories but the brightness of their plumages. For in the avian world, beauty is most often a male trait, a trait that helps them to compete for mates. And compete they must, for, due to incubation and the raising of broods, females are more likely fewer in numbers. These differences in bird coloration (sexual dichromatism), according to Charles Darwin, resulted from females’ preferences for bright-colored males. As some studies indicate, a female views a potential mate’s bright color as a measure of his health and energy. * Given the work that went into establishing and defending his territory, she might be right. Ultimately, then, the female has the final say when picking a mate. As May begins, the influx of migrants to the Texas Hill Country peaks. While early arrivals such as the endangered Golden-cheeked Warblers tend to fledglings and resident birds work on second broods, new arrivals begin mating rituals and nest building. The birds that make it to breeding grounds are the survivors, perhaps most equipped to pass on their genes to the next generation. Less fortunate migrants lose the battle to high winds and storms. Exhausted, they drown before reaching the gulf shore. Additionally, most passerines fly at night, making them more likely to strike windows, tall buildings and other structures.For these beautiful creatures that soar so effortlessly, however, the fight for survival, starts even before they hatch. Jays, opossums, raccoons, snakes and squirrels prey on eggs. Some nestlings face problems from imported red fire ants and Brown-headed Cowbirds. White-tailed deer are known to eat birds, making the young of ground nesters vulnerable. As if natural enemies aren’t enough, domestic and feral cats pose a very serious threat. Wildlife rehabbers know too well what happens when a cat’s claw punctures a young bird’s skin. Though often too tiny to see, the penetration carries a lethal dose of bacteria, leading to almost certain death. Scientific studies estimate that cats kill hundreds of millions of birds a year. Indirectly, these figures are higher. When a predator, such as a cat, approaches a nest, parents’ alarms and nest defenses

Black Crested Titmouse. Photo by Nancy Feely. alert other predators to the nest site. Also, during such events, parental feeding rates to the nestlings fall for a prolonged period after the threat has passed. Throughout May and June, volunteers will conduct breeding bird surveys (BBS) along 3,000 predetermined routes across the United States and Canada. At each of the fifty stops along their 24.5mile route, observers take three minutes to identify and tally all birds seen within a quarter mile and all birds heard. Since its inception in the 1960s, BBS have proved invaluable in tracking populations of species across the continent. Many national and local conservation organizations use the data these dedicated volunteers provide when developing plans for avian conservation. Meanwhile, the subjects of these surveys answer the call to propagate and to ensure their species’ place in future studies. It follows that just as breeding is a busy time for birds, it is also a busy time for wildlife rehabilitators. Spring storms toss trees and nestlings fall to the ground. Fledglings take their maiden flights with gravity often winning. Defenseless, these young birds often fall victim to predation. How can one help? Keep feline pets indoors. Anyone finding a helpless nestling should, if possible, return it to its nest. Place a fledgling beneath the nearest shrub. Parents keep a watchful eye on their young and will tend to it. In either case, if the youngster is in danger and needs human intervention, place it in a box cushioned with a soft cloth (no towels) and keep it in a dark, quiet, warm place. Then call a rehabber. Be patient. Rehabbers are extremely busy during baby bird season and may not immediately return your call. May all enjoy this season of song, beauty and renewal. FYI • For more information visit the web site at www. austinwildliferescue.org, or www.austinareawildliferehab.org or call Rescue Hotline at 512-472-9453, or in San Antonio area, call Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation at 830-3362725 or (for owls or hawks) Last Chance Forever 210-4994080. For more, read “Why are male birds more colorful than female birds?” in the September 12, 2005 issue of Scientific American.

Hill Country SUN May 2015 Volume 25 • Number 11 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 Suzy Moehring Mallard 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 : “Happiness Returns” by Linda Calvert Jacobson. (See story, page 4.) The newly-opened Wildflower Gallery in Olde Towne Plaza at 13801 Ranch Road 12 in Wimberley features the bold and colorful wildflower paintings of artist Linda Calvert Jacobson. Photo courtesy Linda Calvert Jacobson. • 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

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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Blooms year ‘round at Wildflower Art Gallery

By Ernie Altgelt

ach year, springtime attracts thousands (of butterflies, bees and people) to the scenic Texas Hill Country all intent on savoring the native wildflowers. And for many, nature’s annual display can be so inspiring it seems a shame that its anticipated arrival, followed by the short duration of the “glorious peak” can’t be enjoyed at all times – or can it? Thanks to gifted area artist Linda Calvert Jacobson and her super supportive husband, David Jacobson, folks can now have their wildflowers, in abundance and in beautiful bloom, in any season at Wimberley’s new, and not-to-bemissed, Linda Calvert Jacobson Wildflower Art Gallery. Linda, who grew up in Floresville amid the stunning floral species that, for a few short months brightened the surrounding fields and roadways, always loved art. As a child, she drew and sketched. By her teen years she was painting and thankfully, that passion to create never abated. Following multiple careers as a graphic artist, marketing pro, journalist and educator (on the high school and university levels and, as a sought-after private instructor), Linda eventually transitioned fulltime and professionally into the lauded “fine” artist she is today.

Colorful purses adorned with Linda’s art at Wildflower Art Gallery. Photo courtesy Linda Calvert Jacobson. But why flowers? As she readily admits, “I painted many different subjects throughout my life.” However, about 12 years ago while on a sabbatical, Linda decided to create a targeted “body of work,” and, what naturally “called” to her were her beloved Texas wildflowers. Thanks to the successful output from See WILDFLOWER ART GALLERY, page 5

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Linda Calvert Jacobson and David Jocobson CENTER cut the ribbon at the opening of Wildflower Art Gallery in Wimberley’s Olde Towne Plaza. Photo courtesy Linda Calvert Jacobson. that project, her on-going love in capturing and then sharing her perpetual, rainbow-hued “spring” with kindred souls has since resulted in more than one thousand exquisitely-wrought expressionistic wildflower canvasses that cheerfully adorn countless private homes and businesses throughout the state and beyond. Regarding her unique style, the artist explains, “Rather than trying to make each bloom look like a specific flower, I employ a loose, abstract rendering using bold acrylics that allows each viewer to individually ‘interpret’ the subject.” Obviously, it’s a winning formula as her growing fan base can readily attest to. The Jacobsons currently live in Fischer while Linda maintains a permanent studio in New Braunfels. However, it was on a day trip to bucolic Wimberley earlier this year when, attracted by the small-town charm, the idea of opening a dedicated Linda Calvert Jacobson gallery initially surfaced. She and David’s traditional marketing plan had included direct sales and

relationships with a few, select galleries in other states. Their gallery would exclusively (with occasional exceptions of invited, like-minded artists) feature only Linda’s work. As David offers, “We wanted a venue where people could come in and immerse themselves in my wife’s incredible art.” Couple the appeal of Linda’s creations with Wimberley’s other laid-back attractions that draw visitors daily, and it seemed like a perfect fit. Based on recent revues and customer feedback, a smiling David offers, “the gallery is truly flowering and, that was our plan.” Located conveniently in Olde Towne Plaza in a bright green (how appropriate) cottage with an open-frame airplane resting on a pole out front, the Linda Calvert Jacobson Wildflower Art Gallery offers an intimate setting where, as both explain, “Guests can get up close and personal” with many, varying original wildflower works. And, with Linda’s busy schedule See WILDFLOWER ART GALLERY, page 6

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DRIPPING SPRINGS

Remarkable remedy of Healing Horse Ranch

By Laurel Robertson

ou probably know someone (maybe it’s you?) who can’t resist taking in just one more rescue dog. It might be a hundred-pound Great Dane, who has issues — but with just a little care and training, he could be such a great dog... for somebody..... If so, you’ll appreciate Katie Gibson’s situation. She’s rescued horses (each one the pound-for-pound equivalent of 10 Great Danes) regularly for years now. When the sensible 21-year-old figured out this was going to be a way of life, not just a passing phase, she made the only sane move possible — she started a non-profit charitable horse rescue and training facility.

At Healing Horse Ranch near Dripping Springs, Katie rehabilitates more than just horses. She and her husband, Brant, are building a safe home for rescued horses and dogs (she’s adopted a few of those along the way, too...), and at the same time helping kids, teens, women, families, and psychotherapy patients learn to take the reins in their own lives. Katie currently keeps 11 horses happily employed in the riding lessons, summer camps, equine-facilitated psychotherapy (EFP) and equine-facilitated learning (EFL) programs she offers at her busy facility. Some of the horses are graduates of Healing Horse Ranch’s Rescue 2 Ribbons program, which takes in donated or aban-

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doned horses and rehabilitates and retrains them to become show horses. Candidates for the Rescue 2 Ribbons program must be over the age of three and have the potential to be rideable after rehabilitation. Once the program’s veterinarian gives the okay, the horse undergoes full training in western and English disciplines. Any behavioral issues are addressed with gentleness and understanding along the way. The horse stays in the program until Katie and the vet agree the horse is ready to find its new home. The thriving horse’s later success in shows (ribbons) helps spread the word of hope and recovery for all horses in need. Those who would like to help with Rescue 2 Ribbons, but aren’t ready to adopt a horse, can support the 501 (c)3 non-profit program by sponsoring an individual horse (covering costs of stabling and training), or by making tax-deductible cash donations to the program. Rescue 2 Ribbons also appreciates inkind donations of hay, feed, sand, fencing and shelter materials, and labor. At a recent spring cleaning work day, more than 25 volunteers quickly took care of clearing brush, constructing a round pen, burning a brush pile and pulling 30 bags of weeds! In its Ranch Reflections and Empowered Woman! programs, Healing Horse Ranch is using new fast-growing forms of psychotherapy and learning that draw on horses’ ability to react and respond to human behavior in much the same way that another person would. Unlike dogs, who will respond with acceptance, regardless of the behavior, horses can offer accurate feedback to people learning to build healthy human relationships. This concept, central to the Natural

Katie Gibson works with a rider at Healing Horse Ranch. Photo by David Douglas.

Lifemanship model, is helping both adults and children work through conditions such as abuse and neglect, post traumatic stress, depression, anxiety, relationship problems, anger management issues and bipolar disorders in Healing Horse Ranch’s Reflections Program. Women and girls eight years and older are gaining positive body image, learning self-worth and discovering their individual power through the Empowered Woman! equine-assisted sessions offered at Healing Horse Ranch. And scores of happy young riders are busy with horses and chores around the barns, arena, round pen and pastures, learning cooperation, social skills and a work ethic while they improve their riding ability. The 20 acres buzz with daily riding See HEALING HORSE RANCH, page 7

Healing Horse Ranch owner Katie Gibson RIGHT with her sister, Kristi Dickinson LEFT. Photo by Steve Denny.

PAGE 6 MAY 2015 R HILL COUNTRY SUN

DRIPPING SPRINGS

HEALING HORSE RANCH, from page 6

BBQ • Brew Pub Gourmet Burgers Playground • Outside Patio Live Music Thurs-Sun Catering • To Go Packs

Marly ABOVE, before rehabilitation at Healing Horse Ranch and after a remarkable and healing transformation RIGHT. Photos courtesy Healing Horse Ranch.

lessons and this summer will host several four-day summer camp sessions for both begining and advanced riders. Riding students from Healing Horse Ranch regularly compete in several events: reining , barrel racing, dressage (western or English), Stock Horse of Texas and Hunters/Jumpers 4-H. FYI • Healing Horse Ranch is located at 301 South

512-655-3069 • 3799 E. Hwy 290 • Dripping Springs, TX • www.smokenhops.com Oak Forest, north of Dripping Springs. For more information about riding lessons, summer camps, equine therapy programs and horse adoptions/sponsorships, visit the web site at www.healinghorseranch.com.

Banu Gibson, Hot Jazz bring New Orleans’ sound to Austin

AUSTIN H The Austin Traditional Jazz Society presents New Orleans-style jazz music by internationally known vocalist and banjoist, Banu Gibson, and her Hot Jazz Orchestra Sunday, May 17 at Cap City Comedy Club. Banu is a regular performer at jazz events and festivals across the United States, and her band features outstanding traditional jazz musicians. Enjoy food, two dance floors, and ample free parking at this special concert. Admission is $5 for students with school ID, $15 for ATJS members, and $20 for guests. Tickets are available online at www.atjs.org as well as at the door. PayPal payments are accepted. Tickets purchased online will be held for pickup at the Will Call table at the door on the day of the concert. Banu Gibson. FYI • The Austin Traditional Jazz Society is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organiza- Photo courtesy Banu Gibson. tion whose mission is to encourage the performance, promotion, preservation, and perpetuation of traditional New Orleans style jazz music in Central Texas communities. Cap City Comedy Club is located at 8120 Research Boulevard at Anderson Square, Austin, Texas 78758. Doors open at 1 pm with the performance from 2 pm to 5 pm. ATJS concerts are family friendly. For more information, contact info@atjs.org .

WILDFLOWER ART GALLERY, from page 5 (she’s got to paint!) David generally plays ings make people smile and simply feel good.” But, upon considthe accommodating host, eration, that’s just what a job he’s well suited for wildflowers naturally do since he’s so close to the and Linda and David are artist!As a rule, the petite just helping them do gallery is only able to more of it! showcase 10 to 15 paintFYI • The Linda Calvert Jaings (most from 10” by cobson Wildflower Art Gallery is lo30” to 48” by 48’ in size) cated at 13801 Ranch Road 12 in but it’s always a very neat the Olde Town Plaza in Wimberley, selection. And, the items a short stroll from the Square. Galon display rotate regularlery hours are Wednesday through ly so many callers have Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm and become regulars. Pricing Sunday from noon to 5 pm. After for these stunning onehour appointments can be arof-a-kinds can range ranged. For additional information, from $1,900 to $5,400. including directions contact David at When queried about “The Gift of Spring” by Linda 830-730-7880 or e-mail Linda at: what she enjoys most Calvert Jacobson. lindaswildflowers@yahoo.com. To about her creations, Lin- Photo courtesy Linda Calvert Jacobson. see samples of her work visit the da states, “The joy that my art gives people. I love that my paint- web site at www.lindaswildflowers.com.

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Suzy Moehring Mallard hill country PARKS

Time for bikes and birds in Texas State Parks

Summer Tanager. The Great Texas Birdwatch continues through May 15. Photo courtesy TPWD.

undreds of miles of dirt, caliche, crushed granite, and paved bike trails wind and climb through Texas state parks, offering safe and scenic rides for everyone, whatever the skill level. And springtime is a great time to pack up your bike and hit the state park trails, whether that means joining a scheduled ride or taking a self-guided two-wheeled journey with family and friends. Several Hill Country parks have trails for mountain biking that range from beginner to intermediate to advanced. And you can get a preview of biking at two of those – Colorado Bend State Park and Government Canyon State Natural Area – on YouTube. Colorado Bend has 26 miles of beginner and intermediate hiking and biking trails over varied terrain; and Government Canyon’s 26 miles of trails range from beginner to advanced, with both front country and back country trails that vary in length.

Inclusive rodeo playday at REDArena Roundup DRIPPING SPRINGS H Don’t miss the fifth annual RED Arena Round-Up — an inclusive rodeo play day for riders of all abilities —bringing fun for the whole family Saturday, May 30. RED Arena strives to promote inclusive opportunities for people with disabilities. The Round-Up provides an opportunity for riders with and without disabilities to join together for some fun games and competion on horseback. Guests at the Round-Up can also enjoy fresh-made breakfast tacos and barbecue, fair booth games and crafts, miniature horse petting, mini donkeys, a petting zoo, a raffle and silent Tallie and the ribbon she won riding auction and much more. Get in the Round-Up spirit Bella. Photo courtesy REDArena. at the Wine’Up Party Thursday, May 28 from 5 pm to 8 pm in the RED Arena Barn, featuring free wine and snacks donated by Westcave Cellars, fajita plates donated by Marshalls, live music, “get it now” options for an awesome silent auction, and a special presentation of Silver, Gold and Platinum level sponsors. The first 50 guests will receive a custom wine glass to keep. Also, rider packs and volunteer shirts will be ready for pick up and tickets available for Saturday’s games, activities and food. FYI • RED Arena is located at 1601 Bell Springs Road in Dripping Springs. For more information, call 512807-6505, email info@REDarena.org or visit the web site at www.REDarena.org.

Biking and multi-use trails at Lyndon B. Johnson, McKinney Falls, and South Llano River are rated beginner, with shorter, scenic trails at Lyndon B. Johnson and McKinney Falls. South Llano Rive has about 25 miles of easy trails for mountain biking. And LBJ National Historic Park has a nine-mile paved loop that begins and ends at the Visitor Center. A range of trails is available at several other Hill Country Parks, including Guadalupe River where about 10 miles of multi-use loop trails provide scenic views and varied and rugged rides for mountain bikers. Hill Country State Natural Area has 40 miles of mixed singletrack, doubletrack, and jeep roads available to mountain bikers, with some steep hills and plenty of technical terrain for beginner to advanced riders. Kickapoo Cavern State Park has 14 miles of multi-use trails for beginner to intermediate mountain bikers. And Pedernales Falls State Park’s 20 miles of beginner and intermediate trails pass through hills dotted with oak and juniper woodlands and provide access to more heavily

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wooded areas. I mean, really, if you want to get out and see some state parks, the trails are ready for you. Take plenty of water, put a helmet on the kids, pack your trash out. The Great Texas Birding Classic kicked off statewide on April 15 and runs through May 15. This is the nation’s biggest and longest bird watching tournament, and competitors choose from more than 40 tournament categories to test their birding skills, participating from as little as half a day to as long as a week in the statewide tournament. Some participants form a team and compete in such categories as the Big Sit!, in which birders must remain within a 17foot diameter circle to count their birds. Others choose to enter one of the other categories, including a sunrise-to-noon event, youth-only tournaments, a human-powered contest, and one tournament held entirely within Texas state parks. No matter what the category, you can be sure much of the birding will be happening in state parks. Last year the Great Texas Birding Classic raised $18,000 in registration fees and sponsorships, which goes for conservation grants and to support nature tourism in Texas. Some 400 competitors documented 425 species in last year’s competition. Since the Great Texas Birding Classic began in 1997, organizers have awarded conservation grants totaling $819,500. Thank you Toyota, Audubon Texas, and birding teams.

Get out and explore the bike trails at Texas State Parks this month. Photo courtesy TPWD.

FRIO/SABINAL RIVER VALLEY

Cowboys never quit at Utopia Ranch Rodeo

By Wanda Waters

n Sunday evening of Memorial Day weekend, the town of Utopia will be filled with excitement as teams from area ranches come to compete in the annual Utopia Ranch Rodeo, billed as the Wildest Rodeo in the West. The capacity crowd loves the sensational action when real working cowboys demonstrate their strength, guts, and know-how in the traditional ranching events of branding, wild cow milking, penning and mugging, and bronc riding. Now in its thirteenth year, the Utopia Ranch Rodeo is always a memorable event, but perhaps the greatest was last year when a seven-inch rain ensued during the rodeo, breaking the long drought in this Hill Country canyon. Although the rodeo arena flooded by the end of the rodeo and the dance had to be cancelled due to the rising river, the competing cowboys absolutely refused to quit the competition. The final winner was a totally drenched team, Young Ranch, winning $4,000 plus a championship saddle for each of the four men on the team. The awesome determination and grit of last year’s competing cowboys inspired local sponsors in Utopia to increase their donations to make this year’s event a $10,000 added rodeo. “Cowboys Never Quit” and “God Bless Cowboys” have become slogans of the 2015 Utopia Ranch Rodeo. The judges always have a hard decision picking the Most Valuable Horse from the rodeo, and the Utopia crowd really appreciates the plucky, athletic, and intelligent horses they watch maneuvering

against wild cows and tough steers. In wild cow milking each team must rope a cow, milk her, and cross the finish line with at least a drop of milk in a bottle. Penning and mugging gets down and dirty with the four-man team roping a cow, mugging it down and tying three legs. Branding, still performed on large cattle ranches today, necessitates heading and heeling a numbered steer, branding it with paint, and running the brand back to the fire (circle). In the saddle bronc riding, contestants attempt to ride the traditionally tough broncs bred by rodeo producer Mike Outhier. Outhier, 1998 PRCA Saddle Bronc Rookie of the Year, four-time NFR qualifier, and two-time PRCA Linderman Award winner, breeds bucking horses on his ranch in Utopia. His broncs have become popular with PRCA stock contractors and four have been selected for the PRCA National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas, Nevada. Knowledgeable and colorful commentary will be provided during the rodeo by announcer Rob Smets, former PRCA World Champion Bull Fighter who is now a world famous rodeo announcer. Smets announces from the dirt in the arena and gets right down as part of the action. He is sponsored by Wrangler for the Utopia Ranch Rodeo. Also part of the arena action is professional photographer Hattie Barham of Utopia. Hattie has an uncanny ability to catch the action, and her amazing photography of the rodeos can be viewed at LoneStarPhotos.com Rounding out the good time is afami-

Corona Boys cowboy Olin Borg of New Mexico was one of the cowboys who refused to quit during the rain in the 2014 Utopia Ranch Rodeo. Photo by Hattie Barham. ly-style dance under the stars on the outdoor dance floor of Utopia Park. Popular Cactus Country Band of San Antonio keeps the dance floor loaded with their variety of good dance music for both young and old. Admission to the combined rodeo and dance is $10, children 8 and under admitted free. Popular food items will be available at the concession stand. In order to run efficiently in a two-

hour time frame, the Utopia Ranch Rodeo is limited to 10 teams of four men each. Preference is given to teams returning from last year, and the roster is booked full for 2015. For a great time, be in Utopia Sunday evening, May 24, when the town proudly presents the 13th annual Utopia Ranch Rodeo and Dance. The fast-paced action will start promptly at 7 pm, and for a parking place and a seat in the stands, don’t be late!

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Family fun at first annual Brewgrass Festival May 16 WIMBERLEY H Brewster’s Pizza hosts the first annual BrewGrass Festival May 16 from 11 am to 8 pm at 9595 Ranch Road 12. Admission is free, and proceeds benefit the Hays County Sheriff’s Department. The day will be filled with music, food, and family fun, featuring a “Kidz Zone” complete with rides, obstacle courses, games, and more. Guests can also enjoy a Rising Star Talent Competition for kids ages six to 17 with cash prizes for the top talent. TLC’s the Willis Clan will be headline performer for the festival. Local artists See TLC’s Willis Clan at BrewGrass Fest Jazz, Blues & Diamonds, Brewster’s own May 16. Photo courtesy The Willis Clan. Jensen Collie, up and coming country singer Ashley Henderson, and others will perform throughout the day leading up to the Willis Clan’s performance Saturday evening. A vendor area featuring local shops and artisans is also part of the fun. FYI • Brewster’s Pizza is a family-run/owned business. Former NFL star Bruce Collie, his wife, Holly, and their 13 children own and operate the restaurant and the Wimberley Brewing Company. To learn more, visit the web site at www. brewsterspizza.com, or call 512-847-3299

Learn how to help monarchs at Cibolo Nature Center May 2 BOERNE H How Texans can help reverse the decline of Monarch butterflies will be addressed at the Cibolo Nature Center & Farm in Boerne on May 2 at the state’s most comprehensive workshop this year on the official state insect. Dramatic declines in numbers of migrating Monarchs have led to national campaigns to plant milkweed plants -- the butterfly’s host plant -- in public green spaces and backyard gardens “We’ll teach you what to plant and not to plant when it comes to types of milkweed,” says certified Master Naturalist Cathy Downs of Comfort, who is teaching the workshop with Master Naturalist Kip Kiphart of Boerne. “Folks generally want to know, what can I do?” Participants at the workshop will see butterflies and larvae, visit the nature center’s milkweed patch and learn about Monarch biology and ecology. The workshop is 9 am to 4 pm at a restored 1850s homestead on the nonprofit Boerne nature center’s historic Herff Farm grounds. Participants will learn how to join volunteer Monarch monitoring projects. The workshop also is approved for credit for Master Naturalists. America’s fascination with the orange and black butterfly named for kings often begins in childhood, since Monarchs are among the first insects studied in elementary school classrooms, Downs says. “It’s in the third grade curriculum.” The disappearance of milkweed plants due to commercial development of natural lands and use of certain weed-control products on farmlands and gardens has contributed to a 90 percent drop in Monarch numbers in recent decades. In March, 52 members of Congress urged President Obama to support efforts to protect the butterflies under the Endangered Species Act. While restoring their habitats has be-

come a national effort, the work is crucial in Texas – the main breeding ground of short-lived eastern Monarchs migrating each spring from central Mexico to the United States. Their descendants return to Mexico in the fall. “Our Texas Hill Country location has made us a major partner with the federal government, university researchers and nonprofits in the Monarch Joint Venture project to recruit and train Texans to help collect important information on breeding and habitat trends, as well as establish more monarch habitat,” says Ben Eldredge, director of education at the Cibolo Nature Center & Farm. “Most of the volunteers we train are not scientists. Our workshops teach folks from all backgrounds who want to learn the basics and perhaps become what we call citizen scientists to monitor these fascinating butterflies,” Ben says. “Almost anyone willing to donate a little time can contribute in a state that’s geographically important to efforts to restore Monarch habitats,” he says. The May 2 workshop’s instructors have diverse backgrounds, too. Cathy is a former retail executive who has taught more than 10,000 school children and adults about Monarchs since becoming a trained Master Naturalist in 2005. Kip is a retired cardiovascular surgeon whose work as a Master Naturalist promoting Monarch habitat restoration earned him the national President’s Volunteer Service Award in 2008. FYI • To pre-register or learn more about the workshop, click on the event listing at www.cibolo.org/calendar, or email nature@cibolo.org. A $20 donation is suggested to cover the cost of the workshop, which includes lunch. The nonprofit Cibolo Nature Center & Farm is preserving natural resources for this and future generations of Texans through land stewardship and education programs on 160 aces of protected lands, trails and the historic Herff Farm.

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. 512858-7960. 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. SECOND 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. 512847-5464. 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.

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HILL COUNTRY CALENDAR 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. 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 512-829-5101 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 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.

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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. MAY 1 AUSTIN: Wildflower Center Gala. Includes dinner catered by the Four Seasons and a silent auction with 40-plus art pieces with a nature focus. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. www. wildflower.org. DRIPPING SPRINGS: Greg Harris. Live music at Mercer Street Dancehall. www.mercerstreetdancehall.com. FREDERICKSBURG: First Friday Art Walk. Tour fine art galleries offering special exhibits, demonstrations, refreshments and extended viewing hours the first Friday of every month. Various locations. www.ffawf.com. MAY 1-3 HILL COUNTRY RIVER REGION: 15th Annual Nature Quest. Exciting Texas Hill Country birding-nature event features workshops, guided tours and adventure. www.texasnaturequest.com, 830-966-2320. LUCKENBACH: Hill Country Run Motorcycle Rally. Enjoy scenic rides through the hills, live music, a cowboy breakfast, the brew ’n’ ’cue and more. www.hillcountryrun.com. JOHNSON CITY: Tour the Sculpture Ranch and Galleries. 10 am to 6 pm. www.sculptureranch.com. MARBLE FALLS: “Howdy Roo” CASI Regional Chili Cook-Off, Lonestar Barbecue State Championship and Backbone Creek Chili Cook-Off This weekend of three cook-offs serves up cook teams’ best chili, beans and barbecue as well as vendors and a silent auction. Johnson Park. www.marblefalls.org. MAY 1-10 AUSTIN: “Witness: Art and Civil Rights in the Sixties.” See 98 paintings, sculptures and photographs by artists such as Richard Avedon, Romare Bearden, Elizabeth Catlett, Mark di Suvero, Barkley Hendricks, Jacob Lawrence, Robert Rauschenberg, Faith Ringgold, Andy Warhol and Jack Whitten at Blanton Museum of Art. www. blantonmuseum.org. FREDERICKSBURG: Fifth Annual Hill Country Film Festival. A three-day independent film festival in the heart of the picturesque Hill Country. www. HillCountryFF.com

MAY 1-10 WIMBERLEY: “The Frog Prince.” EmilyAnn Theatre and Gardens. emilyann.org, 512-847-6969. MAY 1-17 KERRVILLE: Small Quilts. Preview silent-auction quilts that will be available at the Hill Country Quilt Guild Quilt Show Memorial Day weekend at Schreiner University. Kerr Arts and Cultural Center. www.kacckerrville.com. WIMBERLEY: “Greater Tuna.” Wimberley Players present the iconic Texas comedy at the Wimberley Playhouse. www.wimberleyplayers.org. MAY 1 - JULY 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 scenes in the country. More than 125 vintage pieces from the Wittliff Collections’ poster archives document this history and testify to Texas artists’ mastery of the poster form using hand drawings and creative print techniques. www.thewittliffcollections.txstate.edu. MAY 1 - JULY 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, handdrawn illustrations and photographs. Harry Ransom Center. www.hrc.utexas.edu. MAY 2 BANDERA: Market Days Features local arts and crafts. Courthouse Lawn. www.banderatexasbusiness.com. BOERNE: Hauptstrasse Quiltfest. Enjoy a spring Saturday in Boerne with colorful quilts on display, music, special exhibits, presentations andmore. Main Plaza. www.visitboerne.org. BURNET: Citywide Garage Sale Various locations. 830-798-5738. DRIPPING SPRINGS: Michael Myers. Live music at Mercer Street Dancehall. www.mercerstreetdancehall.com. FREDERICKSBURG: Art Auction. Galleries in Fredericksburg and Wyoming join forces for this annual fine art auction. St. Mary’s Family Event Center. www.fredericksburgartauction.com. KERRVILLE: Hill Country Swap Meet. Community garage sale and flea market offers a wide variety of merchandise. Hours are 8 am to 3 pm at Kerr County Hill Country Youth Event Center. www. kerrmarketdays.org. TWIN SISTERS: Public Dance at Twin Sisters Dance Hall. www.twinsistersdancehall.com. WIMBERLEY: Market Days. Stroll along a shaded path to more than 475 booths filled with a variety of arts, crafts, antiques, gift items, clothing and more. Also, freshly prepared barbecue and lots of delicious treats with live music

Hill country calendar under the pavilion. Lions Field. www. shopmarketdays.com MAY 2-3 AUSTIN: Citywide Garage Sale. Find antiques, collectibles and vintage items. Palmer Events Center. www.cwgs.com. SAN MARCOS: Heritage Home Tours Features self-guided tours of some of San Marcos’ historic homes and other culturally significant sites. www.heritageassociationsm.org/tours. STONEWALL: 17th Annual Lavender Festival. Celebrate everything lavender with vendors, cooking demonstrations, live music, guest speakers, wine tastings and tours, vintner luncheons and a dinner. Becker Vineyard. www.beckervineyards.com. MAY 3 FREDERICKSBURG: Maifest German Chorale Concert. Evening of German song and Fredericksburg gemutlichkeit (hospitality). St. Joseph’s Halle, 212 West San Antonio Street. 830-997-6869. MAY 4-10 AUSTIN: National Wildflower Week. Enjoy special exhibits in honor of natural treasures. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. www.wildflower.org. MAY 5 BANDERA: Cowboy Capital Opry. Old Opry-style entertainment hosted by Gerry and Harriet Payne at the Silver Sage Community Center, 803 Buck Creek. www.silversagecorral.org. MAY 7-9 MARBLE FALLS: Mayfest. Family festival includes carnival Thursday through Sunday, washer-pitching and craft vendors Saturday, free concerts Friday and Saturday nights. Johnson Park. www. marblefallsmayfest.com. MAY 8 DRIPPING SPRINGS: People’s Choice. Live music at Mercer Street Dancehall. www.mercerstreetdancehall.com. UVALDE: Four Square Friday. Enjoy late night shopping, food, live music and art at the monthly event named for the town’s original design with four town squares. Downtown. www.visituvalde.com. MAY 8-9 FREDERICKSBURG: Texas Gran Fondo Bicycle Tour. Cycling enthusiasts are invited to discover the Texas Hill Country on unparalleled road courses of 35, 56 or 95 miles. www.texasgranfondo.com. UVALDE: Cactus Jack Foundation PBR Bull Riding. Uvalde County Fairplex. www.visituvalde.com. MAY 8-10 AUSTIN: “Swan Lake.” From the innocence of Odette to the passion of the Black Swan Odile, this work, with its exquisite Tchaikovsky score, is the perfect way to close the Ballet Austin season on Mother’s Day weekend. www.balletaustin.org. MAY 9 BOERNE: Art Waddle Neighborhood

Art Walk. Stroll, ride bikes and picnic along Cibolo Creek while browsing paintings, illustrations, jewelry, pottery, sculpture and more, hosted by neighbors in their yards in The Flats of Boerne. You can see works by more than 30 artists for sale. The Flats. www.visitboerne.org. BOERNE: Art in the Park. Annual event encourages kids to team up with adults to be creative in the performing and visual arts with make-and-take projects and hands-on activities. Professionals and students lead participants in music, painting, sculpture, and other arts and crafts, plus guests can enjoy live performances in theater, dance and storytelling at the Cibolo Nature Center and Farm. www.cibolo.org. BOERNE: Second Saturday Art and Wine. Enjoy complimentary beverages and hors d’oeuvres with art in local galleries. www.secondsaturdayartandwine.com. DRIPPING SPRINGS: Cornell Hurd. Live music at Mercer Street Dancehall. www.mercerstreetdancehall.com. FREDERICKSBURG: Founders Day Celebration A wreath laying at the Marktplatz and special activities celebrate the founding of Fredericksburg. Pioneer Museum, 325 West Main Street. www. pioneermuseum.net. FREDERICKSBURG: Texas Flower Country Women’s 5K and 10K. Run through fields of beautiful wildflowers and enjoy a post-race champagne brunch. Wildseed Farms, 100 Legacy Drive. www.runintexas.com. JOHNSON CITY: Volunteer Fire Department Annual Fish Fry and Raffle Fundraiser. Food and beer by donation, live and silent auctions. Blanco County Fair Grounds. 5 pm to 8 pm. KYLE: Kyle Market Days Features local vendors, arts and crafts, farm-to-market items, and live music. City Square Park. www.kylepard.com. MARBLE FALLS: Main Street Market Day. Craft vendors line Main Street from 9 am to 4 pm. www.marblefalls.org. WIMBERLEY: 20th Annual Wimberley Garden Club Tour — The Waterways of Wimberley. Showcasing seven spectacular gardens. 10 am to 4 pm. wimberleygardenclub.org. WIMBERLEY: Art Society of Wimberley’s Second Annual Judged Art Show. Opera House at Pioneer Village. 7A Resort, 333 Wayside Drive. Open to public 1 pm to 4 pm. 832-367-0825, msalaun@ austin.rr.com. WIMBERLEY: Wag Rescue Dog Adoption Day at King Feed. WAG Rescue is an all-volunteer, non-profit public charity for dog rescue and adoption. 11 am to 3 pm. 14210 Ranch Road 12. info@ wimberleywagrescue.org. MAY 9-10 AUSTIN: La Follia Austin Baroque performs J.S. Bach’s “The Art of the Fugue.” This, the very last large work by Bach,

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has long been acknowledged for its monumental conception and flawless execution. What La Follia will particularly demonstrate is its overwhelming emotional impact. First Presbyterian Church, 8001 Mesa Drive. www.lafollia.org. BOERNE: Boerne Market Days. Hundreds of festive booths display everything from collectibles and nostalgia to modern innovations. Also enjoy food and live entertainment. Main Plaza. www.boernemarketdays.com. MAY 10 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. JOHNSON CITY: Art, Wine and Live Music Enjoy local art and wine. 1:30 pm to 4 pm. www.TASTEWineArt.com. STONEWALL: Mother’s Day Luncheon at Becker Vineyard. www.beckervineyards.com. MAY 14 GRUENE: Come and Taste It. Eleven wineries and winemakers are showcased on the patio and garden of a popular tasting room. Complimentary tastings of craft beer and three wines. 5 pm to 8 pm. Grapevine Texas Wine Bar. www.grapevineingruene.com. KERRVILLE: Circle of Service Gala. Salvation Army benefit includes live music, a silent auction, keynote speaker and formal dinner. The Salvation Army Kroc Center. www.kerrvillekroc.org. MAY 15 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Gary P. Nunn. Live music at Mercer Street Dancehall. www.mercerstreetdancehall.com. MAY 15-16 BRADY: Armed Forces Day Fly-In. Join aviation enthusiasts at this event with historic aircraft and military equipment, re-enactments, a hangar dinner and dance. Curtis Field at Brady Municipal Airport, 3852 North Bridge Street. www.morganmilitaryaviationmuseum.com. KERRVILLE: Kerrfest. Enjoy pro rodeo action, barbecue and chili cook-offs, live music, a street dance, children’s activities and vendors. 6 pm to midnight Friday and 10 am to 1 am Saturday. Kerr County Hill Country Youth Event Center. www.kerrfest.com. MAY 15-17 FREDERICKSBURG: Fredericksburg Trade Days Shop with more than 350 vendors or relax in the biergarten while listening to live music. Seven miles east of town off Highway 290 at 355 Sunday Farms Lane. www.fbgtradedays.com. SAN MARCOS: Swing on the Square Formerly the Texas Natural and Western Swing Festival, this annual event features Western Swing acts and its

PAGE 14 MAY 2015 R HILL COUNTRY SUN

roots in a variety of other styles: blues, 1940s jazz, big band and country. San Marcos Courthouse Square. www. SMTXswingfest.com. MAY 16 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Bastard Sons of Johnny Cash. Live music at Mercer Street Dancehall. www.mercerstreetdancehall.com. WIMBERLEY: Brewgrass Festival 2015. Featuring TLC’s The Willis Clan, Jensen Collie, Ashley Henderson, Jazz Blues and Diamonds. Kid zone, talent competition, face painting, hourly raffle prizes, live music, local artisans. 11 am to 8 pm. Brewsters Pizza, 9595 Ranch Road 12 at the Junction. www.brewsterspizza.com. MAY 16-17 SAN MARCOS: Dirt Dauber Festival. Find clay art demonstrations, refreshments, a kids’ clay play table and live music. Eye of the Dog Art Center, 905 Valley View West Road. www.eyeofthedog.com. MAY 17 AUSTIN: Austin Traditional Jazz Society presents Banu Gibson and her Hot Jazz Orchestra. Good food, two dance floors and ample free parking. Doors at 1 pm. Show 2 pm to 5 pm. Cap City Comedy Club. www.atjs.org. GRUENE: KNBT 92.1 Americana Music Jam at Gruene Hall. Celebration of Americana music features exceptional artists. www.GrueneTexas.com. MAY 21 WIMBERLEY: Susanna’s Kitchen Coffeehouse presents Sam Baker. Doors open by 7 pm; music at 7:30 pm. Free childcare by prior arrangement. Tamales, Wimberley Pie Company pie, pizza, coffee, soft drinks. Wimberley United Methodist Church, corner of Ranch Road 12 and County Road 1492. www. wimberleyumc.org, 512-722-3316. MAY 21-JUNE 7 KERRVILLE: Kerrville Folk Festival. Texas Hill Country-based international music festival features more than 100 songwriters and their bands. Includes concerts, music workshops, arts and crafts, kids’ concerts, food and camping. Quiet Valley Ranch. www.kerrville-music.com. MAY 21-JUNE 28 KERRVILLE: “The Art of Herb Wolf.” Oils, watercolors and ink drawings illustrate Wolf’s life and travels. Kerr Arts and Cultural Center. www.kacckerrville.com. KERRVILLE: Southwest Gourd Fine Art Show. The finest examples of gourd art by best gourd artists from across the nation. They are carved, painted, dyed, woven, sculpted, burned and totally transformed into fabulous works of art. Reception May 23 from 1 pm to 3 pm. Kerr Arts and Cultural Center. www. kacckerrville.com.

MAY 22 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Walt Wilkins and the Mystiqueros. Live music at Mercer Street Dancehall. www.mercerstreetdancehall.com. JOHNSON CITY: Last Chance Players Dinner Theater. The Johnson City Library’s theater troupe presents “Old Time Radio Plays” with dinner among the stacks of the Johnson City Library. www.jclibrarysite.org. MAY 22-24 BANDERA: “Get Your Cook-On” Barbecue Cook-Off. Lone Star Barbecue Society-sanctioned competition includes categories for brisket, beans, ribs, chicken and bloody marys. Mansfield Park, 2886 Texas 16 North, 830-796-3045. BANDERA: Funtier Days Arts and Crafts Show and Parade. Shop more than 75 vendors, enjoy a parade Saturday at 11 am. Courthouse Square and Main Street. www.banderatex.com, 830796-3280. BANDERA: Bandera Pro Rodeo. Mansfield Park, 2886 Texas 16 North. 830-796-3045. DRIPPING SPRINGS: Wag Rescue Dog Adoption Day at Whole Pets Market. 11 am to 3 pm. 911 West Highway 290. info@ wimberleywagrescue.org. FREDERICKSBURG: USO-Style Hangar Dance. Dress in your best ‘40s-inspired outfit, help support Fort Hood USO. Swing-dance lessons, Lone Star Swing Orchestra. Hangar Hotel Pacific Showroom. www.hangarhotel.com. FREDERICKSBURG: Fredericksburg Crawfish Festival. Event dedicated to music, entertainment, food, beverages and fun and inspired by all things Cajun. Marktplatz. www.fbgcrawfish.com. KERRVILLE: Hill Country Quilt Guild Show, “Dimensions in Quilting.” Includes more than 200 judged quilts, wearable and fiber arts, vendors and a quilt drawing. Schreiner University’s Edington Gym. www.hillcountryquiltguild.com. KERRVILLE: Texas Masters of Fine Art and Craft. 12th-annual exhibition features professional artists and craftspeople from all over Texas. www.texasmasters.com. MAY 23 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Bob Appel. Live music at Mercer Street Dancehall. www. mercerstreetdancehall.com. JOHNSON CITY: Market Days. Enjoy food, artisans and other vendors in the heart of Texas Wine Country on the fourth weekend of each month. Memorial Park. More information at www. johnsoncity-texas.com. KERRVILLE: Kerr County Market Days Old-fashioned market on the square features handmade crafts, artwork and homegrown plants and produce. . Kerr County Courthouse. www.kerrmarketdays.org.

Hill country calendar MAY 23 KERRVILLE: Kerrville Festival of the Arts. Fine arts show and sale features 100 artists in a variety of media, food, wine and music. www.kvartfest.com. MAY 24 KERRVILLE: Sentimental Journey Orchestra Concert: “Memorial Memories.” www.caillouxtheater.com. MAY 25 FREDERICKSBURG: Memorial Day Observance. National Museum of Pacific War. www.pacificwarmuseum.org. MAY 28 DRIPPING SPRINGS: WineUp Party in the Barn at REDArena Ranch. Silent auction including airline tickets, wine tours. University of Texas sports packages, horse tack, gift cards and much more. Free hors d’ouevres, wine and fajitas. First 50 guests receive custom wine glass to keep. 5 pm to 8 pm. www.redarena.org. MAY 28-31 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Texas Olive Festival. Features individual events throughout the festival and a festival expo Saturday with live music, chef demos by Central Texas chefs, food and wine tastings from local restaurants and wineries, vendors, kids’ activities and more. Texas Hill Country Olive Company. www.TexasOliveFest.com. MAY 29 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Them Duquaines. Live music at Mercer Street Dancehall. www.mercerstreetdancehall.com. JOHNSON CITY: Last Chance Players Dinner Theater. Last Chance Players perform “Old Time Radio Plays,” including offerings from local writers. 7 pm. Pecan Steet Brewing, 106 East Pecan Street. www.jclibrarysite.org. MAY 30 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Jimmie Vaughan with Clay McClinton. Live music at Mercer Street Dancehall. www.mercerstreetdancehall.com. DRIPPING SPRINGS: REDArena RoundUp. Cheer on horseback riders of all levels competing in a fun rodeo playday. Family fun includes hayrides, bounce house, mini donkey cart rides, fair booth games, silent auction, raffle and more. 9 am to 1 pm. Free admission, free parking. www.redarena.org. FISCHER: Wag Rescue Dog Adoption Day at Jackson Outdoor Market. 11 am to 3 pm. Farm Market 32. info@wimberleywagrescue.org. FREDERICKSBURG: Pacific Combat Living History Program. History comes to life with a World War II battle re-enactment including uniformed actors, guns, tanks and a flamethrower. National Museum of the Pacific War Pacific Combat Zone. www.pacificwarmuseum.org. JOHNSON CITY: Art Walk. Receptions at local galleries from 4 pm to 8 pm. www.

JohnsonCityTexasChamber.com. LEAKEY: Zach Walther. Live music at Buckhorn Bar and Grill. www.thebuckhornbargrill.com. JUNE 5 LEAKEY: Cody Jo Hodges. Live music at Buckhorn Bar and Grill. www.thebuckhornbargrill.com. JUNE 12 LEAKEY: Gary Kyle. Live music at Buckhorn Bar and Grill. www.thebuckhornbargrill.com. JUNE 12-13 AUSTIN: Ballet Southwest Academy presents “The Sleeping Beauty.” www. balletsouthwestacademy.com. JUNE 13 LEAKEY: Aaron Einhouse. Live music at Buckhorn Bar and Grill. www.thebuckhornbargrill.com. JUNE 19-20 LEAKEY: 4th Annual Philthy on the Frio River Trip 2015. Featuring music from Phil Hamilton, Randy Brown, Deryl Dodd, Wansering Daisy, Michael Padgett, Blake Burrow and Troy Murph. At the Buckhorn Bar & Grill. www.philhamiltonmusic.com. JULY 24-26 FREDERICKSBURG: 38th annual Hill Country Swap Meet. Car Corral, flea market. Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park. www.fredericksburgcarclub.com. JUNE 26 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Friday night Cowboy Auction at Mercer Street Dance Hall. Auction 7:30 pm, Gary Kyle Band at 8:30 pm. www.brentthurman.com. JUNE 27 BANDERA: 18th Annual Riverfest. Fun for all ages with a River Rodeo, kayak races, paddle boats, water games, Bandera Idol Competition, food, music, arts and crafts, an open car show, barbecue cook-off and the “Anything that Floats Regatta.” Bandera City Park. 830-7964447, banderariverfest.com. DRIPPING SPRINGS: 17th Annual Brent Thurman PBR Bull Riding. Exceptional Rodeo at 6 pm, PBR at 7:30 pm, followed by dance featuring Gary Kyle Band. Dripping Springs Ranch Park Event Center. Tickets and complete information at www.brentthurman.com. JULY 4 LEAKEY: SA Lights, a Journey Tribute Band. Live music at Buckhorn Bar and Grill. www.thebuckhornbargrill.com. JULY 25 LEAKEY: Aaron Einhouse. Live music at Buckhorn Bar and Grill. www.thebuckhornbargrill.com. JULY 31 LEAKEY: Dunnville. Live music at Buckhorn Bar and Grill. www.thebuckhornbargrill.com. AUGUST 15 LEAKEY: Cody Jo Hodges. Live music at Buckhorn Bar and Grill. www.thebuckhornbargrill.com.

GOOD

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Sun, May 17 • Doors 1 pm • Show 2-5 pm

Cap City Comedy Club 8120 Research Blvd at Anderson Square Tickets $20 adults/$5 students

www.atjs.org

Send Calendar Events to melissa@hillcountrysun.com

HILL COUNTRY SUN R MAY 2015 PAGE 15

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