Hill Country Sun, July 2014

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JULY 2014 Get a taste of the Old West at Bandera’s

Twin Elm Guest Ranch this summer

Serving

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

R The Henry family’s

Schlitterbahn Destination designed for memory making

R Taste of Italy ay Wimberley’s

Bella Vista Ranch producing olive oils, wine

R C.J. Wright’s

Hill Country Wildlife Elusive song of the Wood Thrush

R The Hill Country’s most complete

Calendar Find us on Facebook HillCountrySun

Western family fun at Twin Elm Guest Ranch

S

By Ernie Altgelt

ball, volleyball, ping pong, hayrides and ince 1939, Bandera’s iconic Twin Elm other (group or individual) activities Guest Ranch has been serving up an Following a hearty lunch, many opt authentic Western experience to gen- for a siesta before tackling the afternoon, erations of urban escapees eager for a which can include a visit to historic downtaste (if not a big bite) of the “cowboy” town Bandera for some shopping and lifestyle. Riding and sight-seeing. Back at other entertaining recthe Twin Elm, others reations, combined may gather for variwith large doses of reous (and, very enjoylaxation, restful acable) educational commodations and demonstrations on exceptional repasts, roping and branding all contribute to the as well as informal ranch’s successful rectalks on ranching in ipe for fun and fulfillgeneral. For those ment that continues to seeking a peaceful bring back booted-vis- Bull riding at Twin Elm Guest Ranch conclusion to a full itors from across the rodeo. Photo by 1881 Western Photography, day, an evening seat courtesy Genie Strickland. nation (and the globe) around the beckoning year after year. camp fire may just provide the answer.

For many of the loyal however, it’s As Saturday approaches however, it’s Twin Elm’s action-packed, on-site, week- the rodeo to which all thoughts turn. Bely summer rodeos that put this venue ginning at 8 pm at the comfortable Twin (Stetson topped) head and shoulders Elm arena, area cowboys (and even some above other vacation destinations. intrepid guests) weekly test their skills Located on 250 diverse and verdant and courage on horseback against a bevy acres just north of Bandera, the ranch (be- of ornery beasts in a series of exciting fore 1939 it was a working cattle ranch) is events like bullriding, barrel racing, team blessed with breath-taking elevations, roping, calf roping and chute dogging. lush pastures and cool, shady river botOn the lighter side, youngsters “sadtoms with ample frontage along both the dle-up” for wild (and woolly) rides on Medina River and Indian Creek. Multiple guest room complexes and individual cabins dot the property supported by a dining facility, recreation room, company store, swimming pool, outdoor pavilion, horse corral and other userfriendly constructs—all geared to enhance the visitor’s stay.

The architecture (most is original, all is excellently maintained) nostalgically harkens back to the Twin Elm of the ‘40s and ‘50s. Also, those with RVs can take advantage of 27 con- Kids can experience the thrill of mutton bustin’ at the crete pad sites, each Twin Elm Guest Ranch rodeo. Photo courtesy Twin Elm Guest Ranch. with full hook-up capacity and all very “horse-friendly.” And, some very surprised sheep as they try for the adventurous, rustic camping is their hands at a little “mutton-bustin’.” even allowed on the river.

Others opt for the “calf scramble,” where Once at the Twin Elm (where visitors catching a young steer bare-handed is as can actually meet the real “Twin Elm” tough as it looks. tree), the hardest question for many is With cash and prizes up for grabs, the “what to do first?” Guided horse rides competition is always fierce. These rodeos across the property offer an excellent way are the real thing! to get into the spirit of ranch life. Each ridFYI • Twin Elm Guest Ranch is located just off Highing guest is evaluated on ability before be- way 16 North at 810 FM 470 in Bandera. The ranch is open ing assigned a mount and, on every cross- year ‘round and available to groups. Twin Elm’s Saturdaycountry trek an experienced and skilled night rodeos run throughout the first half of each summer, “wrangler” is in attendance ensuring this year ending on July 12 (so time is running out!). To safety and maximizing pleasure. After- guests staying on the all-inclusive package there is no charge wards, a cool dip in the swimming pool or for attending. A modest $6 admittance fee is required for a “float” down the crystal-clear Medina others. Children five and under get in free. There is a concesRiver in a tube might be called for. sion stand at the arena but personal coolers are welcomed as Fishing always proves a popular pas- well. For information on rates and directions call 830-796time but there’s also horseshoes, basket- 3628 or visit the web site at www.twinelmranch.com.

PAGE 2 JULY 2014 R HILL COUNTRY SUN

Hill Country SUN Julie Spell Harrington Publisher Advertising

Melissa Maxwell Ball Editor/Design Ernie Altgelt Laurel Robertson C.J. Wright Writers Gerry Burns Delonn Bowie Adelle Spell Distribution

July 2014

A DISTINCTIVE COLLECTION OF

Volume 25 • Number 2 • ISSN: 1524-2315

Entire contents copyright © 2014 by TD Austin Lane, Inc. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any fashion without the written consent of the publisher.

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

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

• Cover Twin Elm Guest Ranch in Bandera for family fun, Western style. Photo by Molly Johnson Photography, www. mollyjohnson-photography.com (See story, page 2). Inset top Pari-mutuel horse racing starts July 4-5 at the Gillespie County Fair Grounds in Fredericksburg (See story, page 10). Photo courtesy Gillespie County Fair Grounds. Inset bottom Boogie Bahn Surfing Ride at Schlitterbahn New Braunfels (See story, page 5). Photo courtesy Schlitterbahn.

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

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

Fine Art in the Hill Country

www.hillcountrysun.com

Manuel Garza, Wildflower/Homestead, Oil, 8 x 10

512-847-7278 TheArtGalleryAtWimberley.net Luke, Julie and Kenzie

Julie Spell Harrington

Publisher/Advertising • 512-484-9716

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

Sam, Melissa and John

Melissa Maxwell Ball

TERRY GRISHAM, DIRECTOR

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melissa@hillcountrysun.com

INDEX

HENLY

Texas Hill Country Locator Map

© 2014 by TD Austin Lane, Inc.

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

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wimberley

Bella Vista Ranch, classic Italian farm in Wimberley

A

By Laurel Robertson

ny Saturday or Sunday, you can take a day trip to a classic Italian family farm “without the $3,000 ticket and 21-hour flight,” jokes Jack Dougherty (aka “the olive guy”), owner of First Texas Olive Oil Company at Bella Vista Ranch.

An avid student of ancient history, Jack patterned 27 acres of his Hill Country ranch to reflect an agricultural model developed in Rome for the captured Carthaginian soldiers after Hannibal’s defeat. Interspersed among rows of olive trees are grape vines, berry bushes, fig trees and seasonal produce beds.

A frantoio (olive pressing facility), winery, tasting room and gift shop round out the full tour.

First Texas Olive Oil Company was conceived in 1995 when Jack, who grew up in the orchards of California’s Santa Clara Valley and was newly transplanted to the Hill Country, realized the soil and weather here are similar to the climate of the Mediterranean.

He became determined to start the Hill Country’s first successful olive orchard. The fact that no one else had ever accomplished that didn’t deter him a bit.

Jack began his grand experiment in 1998, planting four varieties of olive trees on his newly acquired ranch near Wimberley.

The intense heat, scarce rainfall and thin soil on the dilapidated land he bought to restore to a working ranch were perfect for olive trees, he reasoned.

“The worse the soil, the better they like it,” he contends.

That December, one of Texas’ infamous “blue northers” killed most of his newly planted trees.

Though the temperature range in the Hill Country is similar to olive-producing regions in California, southern Europe and north Africa, the sudden drops in temperature and humidity that accompany cold fronts here create “onset freezing” that is hard for the semitropical trees to withstand, Jack explains.

Fifteen years later, after extensive pruning, replanting and experimentation, Bella Vista Ranch has 1,200 flourishing olive trees that have produced 11 consecutive harvests.

“Yes, you can grow olive trees in Texas,” Jack asserts, “although 15 years later, we’re still not sure of the long-term outcome. For anyone who wants to getrich-quick raising olives here,” he warns, “remember one word: emu!”

First Texas Olive Oil Company grows a variety of olives, including the California Mission Olive, which came to Texas in the 1600s with Spanish explorers, according to Jack.

Some of those original olive trees can

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PAGE 4 JULY 2014 R HILL COUNTRY SUN

Olives on the vine at Wimberley’s Bella Vista Ranch. Photo courtesy Bella Vista Ranch. still be found growing wild near Presidio, he says. Other varieties he grows include the arbequina, a small Spanish olive that is the primary olive crop in California and the barouni, with its large plum-sized fruit.

Jack’s personal favorite is the Coratina, the most popular olive in Italy.

Bella Vista grows the only crop of Coratinas in the US, he believes.

Around April 17, the olive orchard is in bloom for three days. The flowers have a pleasant smell (they’re from the same family as lilac bushes), although a number of people are allergic to them -

including Jack, he reports with dismay.

The olive fruit matures throughout the summer, ready for harvest beginning in late September. Bella Vista welcomes a host of harvest volunteers each fall mostly women, Jack observes.

Directly after harvest, the olives are taken to the fratorio, where they are cold pressed (below 90* F) into aromatic extra-virgin olive oils with grassy front notes and a peppery after-taste.

First Texas Olive Oil produces an estate oil from their own Coratina olives, a Texas Blend oil from estate olives mixed See BELLA VISTA, page 5

It’s Shakespeare Under the Stars at EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens WIMBERLEY H The cast and crew of The EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens’ annual Shakespeare Under the Stars production are hard at work through August 9.

The theatrical undertaking culminates with performances of ”Richard III,” presented nightly July 31 through August 9 at 8:15 pm (except Sunday).

Enjoy an unforgettable theatrical experience in Shakespeare Under the Wimberley. Photo courtesy Shakespeare Under the Stars.

Stars —now in its 23rd season (and its 14th season at the EmilyAnn). Shakespeare Under the Stars is a unique educational program that offers middle and high school students the opportunity to study and perform one of Shakespeare’s plays. Students audition each year in May and memorize their lines before they arrive in late June. All actors are high school age or younger. Students select an area of technical theatre (set construction, costuming, or lighting) on which to focus. With guidance from the artistic director and interns, students aid in the construction of the costumes and sets. When not working on their assigned technical area, students rehearse with their director, working on acting and the understanding of Shakespeare’s plays. The six-week experience culminates with the production of 12 performances of full-length plays.

FYI • Shakespeare Under the Stars is under the Artistic Direction of Bridge Farias, who holds a BFA in Acting and Directing from Texas State University and has directed Shakespeare Under the Stars productions since 2008. For more information about Shakespeare Under the Stars, please email Bridget at bridget@emilyann.org. For more information about the EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens, call 512-847-6969 or visit the web site at www.emilyann.org.

WIMBERLEY

BELLA VISTA RANCH, from page 4

Jack Dougherty, owner of First Texas Olive Oil Company at Bella Vista Ranch, conducts a tour.

Photo by Lake Robertson.

Olive oils produced at First Texas Olive Oil Company at Bella Vista Ranch. Photo courtesy Bella Vista Ranch.

with other Texas-grown olives, and four flavored olive oils. All their olive oils are for sale only at the gift shop or by mail order.

Bella Vista Cellars produces Hill Country varietal wines using locally grown grapes, as well as a Natural Blackberry Wine from their own berries.

In addition to olive oil and wine, the gift shop at Bella Vista Ranch sells their handcrafted olive oil soaps, several flavors of their homemade jams and preserves, bottled tapenades featuring their home-grown produce, custom-cured stuffed olives and imported balsamic vinegars. Weekend tours include a walking tour of the orchards, an overview of the history of olive cultivation with specifics about growing olives in Texas, a tour of the frantoio, and a guided olive oil tasting.

Samples of Bella Vista Cellars wines and other Bella Vista products are included.

For aspiring olive growers, First Texas Olive Oil Company sells olive trees of varying size and age. Expert advice from The Olive Guy on raising them here in Texas comes with the trees.

FYI • Bella Vista Ranch is located at 3101 Mount Sharp Road in Wimberley.

The gift shop is open Monday, Thursday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm; Sundays noon to 4 pm. Tours are Saturdays at 10 am and 1 pm; Sundays at noon.

Group tours are available by special arrangement. For tour reservations and more information, visit the web site at texasoliveoil.com or call 512-847-6514.

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Popular Schlitterbahn a remarkable family affair

Dripping springs

T

By Ernie Altgelt

Smile of the Month...

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We look forward to seeing you this summer!

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he ever-expanding, diverse and, oh so swimmingly successful Schlitterbahn water park and entertainment organization is truly a family operation.

Since moving to the historic German community of New Braunfels in 1966 and purchasing the existing (mostly undeveloped and fairly rustic) 13-acre Landa Resort nestled next to scenic Comal River— amenities included 34 modest screened cabins and a small pool—the industrious Henry clan has gone on to create an incredible, internationally-recognized watery wonderland.

Comprised of myriad (and very innovative) slides, rides, chutes and spray, all solely geared to providing bucket loads of thrills, chills and lots of pure, familyfriendly entertainment the enterprise (happily and profitably) now draws more than a million excited visitors each year. And, they did it almost single-handedly.

When practicing CPA, Bob Henry, and his wife, Billye (seeking a smalltown lifestyle and escape from Houston) discovered bucolic New Braunfels and then the “for sale” Landa Resort, they knew they’d found their dream.

Realizing the potential of this beautiful riverfront property, the senior Henrys and their three children, Gary, Jeff and Jana, began what would become an ever-

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growing “family” production that today has expanded the original “Landa” footprint to encompass more than 70 magical acres replete with rides, relaxing recreation areas, resort-style guest accommodations and more while simultaneously developing other, equally impressive (and popular) “Schlitterbahn parks” across Texas and, in Kansas as well. Wow! So, how did they do it? As son Gary explains, “Initially, we all had jobs at the resort – working in the kitchen, cleaning up after the guests, anything and everything involved in running literally, a ‘mom and pop’ hospitality enterprise.”

Then perhaps tellingly, in 1967, brother Jeff and his father (both competent handymen) added a rope swing over, and a tube chute into, the river. With those primitive enhancements, as Jeff explains, “We were suddenly in the water park business – before there was such a thing!”

The business really took off after an inspirational visit to Orlando, Florida, in 1976 where Jeff and a friend were serendipitously introduced to several of the nation’s first, larger-scaled, “water-based” amusement parks that featured such novel creations as concrete slides.

After witnessing the same, the excited 20-year-old insisted his parents “come see” as well. Soon, the entire family was “on board and awash” with plans for expansion – in real estate and entertainment offerings – at their New Braunfels base.

By 1979, Schlitterbahn (“slippery road” in German) officially opened after the construction of a German-style tower sporting four heart-racing water slides.

Quite well received at the time, but obviously, only the beginning of what has since grown into the Henry’s impressive, privately-owned H2O empire. (see sidebar) Today, with Bob and Billye retired, older brother Gary (like his dad, a degreed CPA) is CEO and financial whiz; Jeff, selftaught (industry-wide recognized) creative spark in charge of R&D (namely, ride development); and sister Jana (with a fashion merchandising degree), the retail boss.

Each family member has assumed the role, at one time or another, of “general manager” at the various family-owned parks. Mom and Dad still weigh in on occasion. All agree it’s been (and, continues to be) a very fun ride.

In assessing their success, a large part can be attributed to the enviable fact that they, distinct from one another, have “lived” this wonderful business, from the ground up, for the past 45 years, each ultimately accepting varied roles appropriate to their individual strengths, growing, learning, innovating and adapting.

Perhaps, most importantly, they share the same professional vision – to provide the finest in wholesome entertainment in an environment where families can (as the Henrys have personally done) bond. As Jana explains, “We feel that we truly create See SCHLITTERBAHN, page 7

DRIPPING SPRINGS

SCHILTTERBAHN, from page 6

MODERN ORTHODONTICS FROM FRIENDLY PEOPLE.

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

A fun and wholesome environment where families can bond is what the Henry family had in mind when creating their Schlitterbahn water park. Photo courtesy Schiltterbahn. a happiness that ties people together – Blaster ride!” meaning our guests and our employees – FYI • For more information about all of Schlittermaking us all seem like family! There’s just bahn’s offerings, visit the web site at www.schlitterbahn.com. nothing neater…except maybe our Master

READY to experience real New York style pizza? We’ve got you covered.

Schlitterbahn at a glance Schlitterbahn is “big business.” Here, a brief overview of this expansive, innovative and ever-growing entertainment extravaganza. To personally (and delightfully) experience the many complexities of this incredible and varied “waterworld,” a visit (with bathing suit) is definitely required.

H All of the water attractions and the majority of the supporting technology were developed exclusively by the Henrys.

H Schlitterbahn has been voted “The World’s Best Water park” for 15 consecutive years in polls conducted by Amusement Today.

H Since 1995, Schlitterbahn has reigned as the nation’s most popular “seasonal” water park, only topped in attendance by year-round water parks. More than one million guests visit the original park each season (April through September).

H The six-story Master Blaster uphill water coaster was voted “The World’s Best Water park Ride” for the 11th time in 2010. It works by using state-of-the art technology to blast riders uphill on highvelocity streams of jetted water.

Sun-Thurs 10:30 am-9 pm Fri-Sat 10:30 am-10 pm

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H The original New Braunfels development, initially 13 acres, now covers 70 acres. The entire footprint was designed so as to complement the existing natural environment. It contains multiple entertainment areas, restaurants and several hundred guest rooms.

H Schlitterbahn is New Braunfels’ largest employer – 2,000 in New Braunfels, 3,000 company wide.

OPEN

Intersection of Hwy. 290 & RR12 (next to Central Garage & opposite Walgreens) in the heart of Dripping Springs

TO ADVERTISE in the Photo courtesy Schiltterbahn.

H 98 percent of the water used at Schlitterbahn is recycled.

H

Hill Country Sun julie@hillcountrysun.com • 512-484-9716

Schlitterbahn now operates parks in four locations, including the original Schlitterbahn Water park in New Braunfels, Schlitterbahn Galveston Island (an indoor park that remains open year-round on weekends), Schlitterbahn Beach South Padre Island and Schlitterbahn Vacation Village in Kansas City, Kansas.

Sisters tubing. Photo courtesy Schiltterbahn.

HILL COUNTRY SUN R JULY 2014 PAGE 7

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usk falls early in these woods and, as the sun disappears behind the trees, I listen, eager to hear the flute-like song of the Wood Thrush. As if Nature is holding its breath, the evening remains still. Waiting.

The words of Henry David Thoreau ring poignantly in my mind: “The thrush declares the immortal wealth and vigor that is in the forest. Whenever a man hears it, he is young, and Nature is in her spring.”

Yet, the trees stand bereft of song and darkness descends. Stars sparkle amidst tree branches overhead. Drawn to the deck lighting, moths flit, land on the railing, hover near the light, then circle about, many pasted to the door like ornaments.

A lovely luna moth bangs its pale green wings against the door, tumbles to the floor only to rise and repeat its death wish. I gather it in my hands and remove it from the light, then settle to enjoy the night sounds. A Great Horned Owl calls from the direction of a creek not far off.

Then the other bird I take pleasure in hearing at this time of year startles the

night with its call.

A Chuck-will’s widow sings directly overhead. After a pause, another answers, followed by yet a third. Their dueling calls continue long into the night.

When morning dawns, sun filters through the trees, highlighting the still fresh foliage of late spring. Somewhere amidst the pines, oaks and sweet gum, I hear the insistent calls of Tufted Titmice.

A frog belches forth a loud croak from its lair amidst the puddles left from the last rain. A hummingbird buzzes by unseen, its probable destination the honeysuckles that wrap flower-laden vines around the forest trees.

Not far away, Pileated Woodpeckers hammer out long strains of notes making one wonder when they’ll pause to breathe. The squeaky wheel call of a blue jay, followed by the caw of a lone crow winging its way overhead, add to the chorus.

As I work in the garden among raised vegetable beds and a flower bed, a northern fence lizard beats a hasty retreat, slithering beneath a layer of dry leaves.

See WILDLIFE, page 9

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WILDLIFE, from page 8

frio/sabinal river valleys

Wood Thrush. © Chris Hill | Dreamstime.com A black swallowtail butterfly flutters by, perhaps the adult form of the fourth or fifth instar caterpillar I found munching on parsley a few visits ago.

A brief silence descends, soon interrupted by a birdcall with which I’m unfamiliar. Add yet another unidentifiable song and I’m reminded that I must find my birdsong CDs, for in this woodland— still fairly new to me—birds easily hide.

The steady drumming of what I take to be a Red-bellied Woodpecker adds percussion to the symphony.

As birds fly in to check out the garden and, while at it, perform solos, I imagine them introducing themselves for my benefit. Overhead, three birds circle and twitter—perhaps the Eastern Phoebe fledglings from the nest tucked atop the ledge of a stone pillar beneath our porch.

Even as the day warms and activity slows, summer tanagers persist, repeating their dry, clicking calls. Then, to stir

things up, a Carolina Wren pauses to belt out a song as it works its way through a pile of brush.

Evening falls once more and I linger outside, hoping to hear that feathered flutist’s song. But all is still.

Even though my visits were intermittent four years ago, Wood Thrush songs graced the woods each evening I was here, their ethereal voices a glorious close to the day.

Last year, I heard the thrush’s lovely ee-oh-lay just once.

Though I’ve yet to hear one lyrical strain this year, my hopes remain. Sadly, a recent Breeding Bird Survey shows a 50 percent decline in the species since regular counts started in the late 1960s. Why the decline?

As with most population decreases, it boils down to habitat loss. The Wood Thrush winters in Central America, in a traditionally tropical forest habitat now suffering from deforestation.

Bridget Stutchbury—a professor at York University in Toronto who, since the 1980s, has studied songbirds from wintering grounds in Latin America to their North American breeding grounds—recently wrote an article that appeared on the American Bird Conservancy Blog. To help bring back the Wood Thrush, she suggests, we should drink Bird Friendly® coffee—organic coffee grown in shade in the forested habitat in Central America See WILDLIFE, page 10

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Andy’s boutique has tons of new inventory arriving weekly during the summer!

HILL COUNTRY SUN R JULY 2014 PAGE 9

frio/sabinal river valleys

Frio’s Dry FiFty Celebrating Our 30th Summer on the Frio!

Frio River & GSP T-Shirts HShorts HHand Dipped Blue Bell Hawaiian Shaved Ice H Consuela H Southern Tide Hats/Caps HFlip Flops HRiver Gear Yellow Box HJewelry H Gifts H and More!

WILDLIFE, from page 9 where thrushes and other songbirds winter.

Prior to the 1970s, coffee was a shrub or bush grown beneath the shade of trees.

Then coffee farmers cut trees to plant dwarf coffee shrubs that produced more coffee and required no shade—though they demanded fertilizers, pesticides and more care. Thus, migratory birds returned to their tropical winter habitat only to find their forest homes uprooted, replaced by full-sun coffee farms.

What kind of impact can we make by converting to bird friendly coffee? According to Global Exchange, coffee is the world’s second most valuable traded commodity, second only to petroleum. Of that coffee, two-thirds of it is grown in Latin America.

Therefore, creating a demand for shade-happy coffee goes a long way toward helping farmers retain their liveli-

hood, preserve their land and increase their yield. Ultimately our actions would reverse deforestation and reestablish a safe winter habitat for the Wood Thrush.

Once again a thriving population, the Wood Thrush would return to breed and to grace our evening woodlands with its melodic song.

FYI • Bridget Stutchbury’s suggestion of Bird Friendly® coffee is certified organic and certified shade Bird friendly coffee. You can find it at Coffee Traders, Inc. on 4th St. in Austin. Birds and Beans, recommended by Cornell Lab and the American Bird Conservancy, is also certified organically grown inside a forest-like canopy. The Smithsonian Institution certifies it as “Bird Friendly.” For more, visit www.birdsandbeans.com. The Rainforest Alliance also certifies bird friendly coffee and can be found at Whole Foods stores. Its mission is to conserve biodiversity and promote sustainability. Its standards, however, aren’t as strict as the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center’s Bird Friendly standards.

Don’t miss horse races, festivals, more at Gillespie Fair Grounds Open Sunday-Thursday 9:30 am - 5:30 pm Friday-Saturday 9:30 am - 6:30 pm

Check Us Out on Hwy 127 in Concan, TX

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830-232-6300 • friosdryfifty.com

FREDERICKSBURG H The Hill Country pari-mutuel horse racing season kicks off July 4-5, with 10 races scheduled Friday and 12 races Saturday. Post time is 1 pm each day. Gates open at 11 am, races run until 6 pm. Race fans are invited to stay into the evening Saturday, July 5, for Scholarship Fest, featuring German food, drinks, live and silent auctions, and all-day drawings for thousands of dollars worth of guns, jewelry, gift certificates, outdoor and sporting gear, art, and more. Funds raised at the annual event provide scholarships for Gillespie County youth. Night In Old Fredericksburg will be held at the Fair Grounds July 19, and the Gillespie County Fair is August 21-24.

FYI • General admission for the races is $7 for adults; $3 for children ages 6-15; and free for 5 and under. Reserved seats are $10, regardless of age. Box Seats are $15, regardless of age. Purchase gate tickets online at www.gillespiefair.com.

Admission to Scholarship Fest is $25, and includes general admission into the races; appetizers, German plate, and drinks at the Fest immediately following the races; and entry for door prizes. Upcoming race meet dates are July 19-20, August 9-10, and August 23-24. Complete information and tickets for all events are online at www.gillespiefair.com.

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830-232-4402 CowgirlLoca.com PAGE 10 JULY 2014 R HILL COUNTRY SUN

Hill Country Calendar

House Pasture NOTE: Dates or locations for the events listed in the Calendar may change. Some require admission fees or reservations. Please call ahead to confirm information.

EVERY DAY GRUENE: Live music at Gruene Hall.

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

SECOND SUNDAY BANDERA: Cowboy Camp. Live cowboy music at Frontier Times Museum.

Free. 1 pm to 5 pm. 830-328-0321.

JOHNSON CITY: Taste Wine + Art Music Events. Rockin’ gospel to Latin music at the Kirchman Gallery. 830868-9290.

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. First Baptist Church. 512858-7960.

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

EVERY TUESDAY through SUNDAY WIMBERLEY: A premier hand blown glass lighting and art glass studio since 1992, Wimberley Glassworks hosts glass blowing demonstrations for travelers and art glass enthusiasts from around the world. The Glassworks’ custom lighting designs are featured in luxury commercial properties throughout Texas. wgw.com, 512-213-2110.

FIRST TUESDAYS BANDERA: Cowboy Capital Opry. Silver Sage Corral Senior Center. 830-7964969.

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

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

EVERY WEDNESDAY DRIPPING SPRINGS: Farmers Market.

3 pm to 7 pm at the Highway 290 and Ranch Road 12. March to December, rain or shine. www.cityofdrippingsprings.com.

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

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

FOURTH WEDNESDAYS WIMBERLEY: Hill Country Neighbors.

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

EVERY THURSDAY DRIPPING SPRINGS: Coffee House with Light Dinners, Decadent Desserts

and Open Mic. 6 pm to 9 pm. Thyme and Dough. 512-894-0001.

DRIPPING SPRINGS: Thursdays with Doug Moreland and the Flying Armadillos at Mercer Street Dance Hall. www.mercerstreetdancehall.com.

WIMBERLEY: Cafe’ Susanna. Serving lunch to the community from 11 am to 1 pm in the Fellowship Hall of Wimberley United Methodist Church, located at Ranch Road and County Road 1492. Good ole’ church cookin’ just like your grandma made. Entree’, two sides, bread/crackers, ice tea, and myriad of decadent desserts for only $9. Good food and fellowship. www. wimberleyumc.org, 512-847-3109.

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

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

FIRST AND THIRD THURSDAY CANYON LAKE: Noon Lions Meeting at Canyon Lake Golf Club. 830-8994406.

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

EVERY THURSDAY, FRIDAY, SATURDAY WIMBERLEY: Live Music at Linda’s Fine Foods. Delicious food, beautiful music at 500 Farm Market 2325. 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 by KNBT92.1 FM Radio. 4 pm to 7 pm. 830-6295077.

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

WIMBERLEY: Preschool Story Time at the Wimberley Village Library. Bring your little ones at 10:30 am. 512-8472188, www.wimberleylibrary.org.

WIMBERLEY: Celebrate Recovery.

First Baptist Church Youth Building. 7 pm to 9 pm, with pizza at 6:30 pm. 512847-9035.

SECOND FRIDAY CASTROVILLE: Friday Night Fever.

Cars, trucks, bikes, food, shopping.

6 pm to 10 pm. Lundquist Automotive.

2014

Cattle Company

Summer Lineup July 4 ................................. Josh Grider Cody Johnson July 5 ...............................Curtis Grimes Randy Rogers July 12 ....................... Charlie Montague Jack Ingram July 19 .......................... Aaron Einhouse Kevin Fowler July 25 .................... Captain Legendary July 26 ............................ Breelan Angel Stoney LaRue August 2 ............................. El Rey Vino Bellamy Brothers August 8 ........................ Spazmatics August 9 ........................... Frio River Song Festival August 30 .......................... Jason Eady Max Stalling

House Pasture Cattle Company

Concan’s Original Country Music Venue & Restaurant

www.HousePasture.com 2 N. County Rd. 348 “River Road” Concan, Texas • 830-232-6580 HILL COUNTRY SUN R JULY 2014 PAGE 11

Hill country calendar 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

Standing Seam Custom Metal Roof Systems for Your Home COLONIAL ROOFING

Let us upgrade your home with a new Metal Roof. Call 512-491-0818 to start the process and get that roof you have always wanted. We work with your Insurance Company to get you your new roof.

We do all Residential & Commercial Roofing.

www.colonialroofingtexas.com

Like us on Facebook.

HillCountrySun

Ball Brothers

Paint & Drywall 30 Years Experience

Locally Owned & Operated Quality Workmanship References Available

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

Need Carpentry Work? Call Us.

512-360-7062 H www.ballbrotherspainting.com PAGE 12 JULY 2014 R HILL COUNTRY SUN

www.castroville.com, 830-931-2479.

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

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

Call 830-796-4969 for information.

EVERY FRIDAY, SATURDAY AND SUNDAY FREDERICKSBURG: Rockbox Theater.

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

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

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

AUSTIN: Sunset Valley Farmers Market. Barton Creek Mall. 512-280-1976.

BANDERA: Flying L Ranch Chuck Wagon Dinner. Enjoy barbecue, wagon rides, roping lessons, hat and pistol branding, archery, old fashioned photos, a cowboy stage show, gunslingers, line dancing and entertainment. www. flyingl.com, 800-292-5134.

BANDERA: Twin Elm Ranch Rodeo.

Watch bull riding and rodeo events, plus enjoy a calf scramble and mutton bustin’ for the kids. Starts at 8 pm. www. twinelmranch.com, 888-567-3049.­ COMFORT: Comfort Area Farmer’s Market. 8 am to 1 pm. Comfort Park on Highway 27.

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

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

FISCHER: Jackson Open Air Market.

Local artists and farmers, food, fun and entertainment. 9 am to 5 pm. 6341 Farm Market 32. 830-935-2781.

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

WIMBERLEY: Tours of Jacob’s Well.

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

WIMBERLEY: Arnosky Family Farms Market. Fresh flowers, more. Ranch Road 2325 and Highway 165. 830-8335428.

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 of Driftwood. Dinner, fun at 7 pm. www.driftwoodtx.org 512-829-5101 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Low Cost Pet Vaccinations. At Tractor Supply on Highway 290. 512-858-7229.

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

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

SECOND SATURDAY CASTROVILLE: Market Trail Days.

Houston Square. 830-539-2316.

THIRD SATURDAY MARBLE FALLS: Bluegrass, Country and Western, and Gospel. 6 pm to 10 pm.

Boys and Girls Club. 830-898-1784.

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

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

FOURTH SATURDAY AND SUNDAY Johnson City: Market Days. Join us the fourth weekend of the month beginning May 24th for food, artisans, vendors.

830-868-7684, JohnsonCityTexasChamber.com.

JULY 1-6 FREDERICKSBURG: “Les Miserables.”

Fredericksburg Theater Company. www.fredericksburgtheater.org.

JULY 1-27 KERRVILLE: Exhibits at the Kerr Arts and Cultural Center. Includes the HomeTown Crafts Teachers Show, Think Ink and Paris...Je t’aime, Joseph Walsh. Kerr Arts and Cultural Center. www.kacckerrville.com, 830-895-2911.

JULY 1 - AUGUST 1 SAN MARCOS: Acting Up and Getting Down: Plays by African-American Texans. Exhibit celebrates the new book in the Wittliff’s literary series with UT Press. One of the few anthologies of its kind, “Acting Up and Getting Down” brings together seven compelling plays

by African-American Texans, spanning turning points in history, addressing intergenerational struggles, and marking cultural triumphs while exploring the complexity of African-American life from an array of perspectives. The Wittliff Collections, Alkek Library at Texas State University. www.thewittliffcollections.txstate.edu. 512-245-2313.

JULY 2 AUSTIN: Rick Trevino. Free KOKEFM Texas Concert Series at the Nutty Brown Cafe. 6:30 pm. www.nuttybrown. com.

WIMBERLEY: Water Fair. Hays County Extension presents a program that includes The Incredible Water Drop Journey, a watershed pollution model and rainfall simulator. 10:30 am at the Wimberley Village Library. www.wimberleylibrary.org.

JULY 1 - DECEMBER 7 SAN MARCOS: Mary Ellen Mark: Man and Beast—Photographs from Mexico and India. Exhibit of more than 100 images by renowned photographer Mary Ellen Mark includes many that explore the fundamental, intimate working relationships between people and animals in two countries half a world apart. The Wittliff Collections, Alkek Library at

Hill country calendar JULY 4 FREDERICKSBURG: Fourth of July Celebrations. Includes parades and a patriotic program at the Marktplatz, a chili cook-off at Becker Vineyards in Stonewall, a kite festival at Pedernales Cellars in Stonewall and live music in Luckenbach. Plus, an evening concert and fireworks at Lady Bird Johnson Park. www.visitfredericksburgtx.com, 830-997-6523.

KERRVILLE: Kerrville’s Fourth on the River. Live music, family activities and fireworks at dusk. www.kerrvilles4thontheriver.org, 830-792-3535.

ROUND ROCK: Frontier Days Celebration. Enjoy free watermelon, children’s games, the jalapeno-eating contest, rubber-duck races, arts and crafts vendors and skydivers, all leading up to the fireworks display accompanied by patriotic music by the Austin Symphonic Band. Old Settler’s Park, 3300 Palm Valley. www.austinsymphonicband.org JULY 4-5 CASTROVILLE: July 4 Celebration. Enjoy a concert, fireworks, market days and family activities. Houston Square. www.castroville.com.

FREDERICKSBURG: Pari-Mutuel Horse Racing. Features quarter horse and thoroughbred races, special races and trials for the 2014 Fair Futurity.

Gillespie County Fairgrounds, 530 Fair Drive. www.gillespiefair.com, 830-9972359.

JULY 4-5 LEAKEY: July Jubilee. Enjoy a rodeo Friday and Saturday featuring calf roping, bareback riding, bull riding, saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling and ladies’ barrel racing. Saturday morning parade at 10 am with arts, crafts and food vendors, Saturday evening old time street dance at 8 pm downtown. 830-232-5222, www.friocanyonchamber.com.

JOHNSON CITY: 12th Annual July 4th Spangle Dangle Parade & Celebration.

A two-day celebration with fireworks at dusk both nights. Blanco County Fairgrounds. Parade at 10 am on July 5 around the Courthouse on Town Square! www. spangledangle.com.

STONEWALL: All-American Chili Cook-Off. About 70 cooks compete in this CASI-sanctioned chili cook-off.

Taste samples, vote for best chili of the day, and enjoy wine tastings and live music at Becker Vineyard. www.beckervineyards.com, 512-567-2835.

WIMBERLEY: The EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens present Disney’s“Beauty and the Beast.”8:15 pm. www.emilyann. org, 512-847-6969.

JULY 4-19 INGRAM: “Young Frankenstein.” The Point Theatre, 120 Point Theatre Road. www.hcaf.com, 830-367-5121.

JULY 5 BANDERA: Market Day. Courthouse Square. www.banderatexasbusiness. com/market­days.htm.

New Fischer/Canyon Lake area Artisan & Farmers Market

Local Artists & Farmers Food • Fun • Entertainment!

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

For information 830-935-2781

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Texas State University. www.thewittliffcollections.txstate.edu, 512-2452313.

JULY 3-5 WIMBERLEY: 69th Annual Wimberley VFW Rodeo. Enjoy a calf scramble and mutton bustin’ each night, rodeo events, bull riding, roping, steer wrestling, more. Saturday night dance and fireworks Sunday night. www.wimberleyvfwrodeo.com.

JULY 3-6 WIMBERLEY: July Jubilee. Celebration includes VFW Rodeo Thursday, Friday and Saturday starting at 5:30 pm. Friday, head to the Celebration Station at the Visitor Center for food and drink from 8 am to 1 pm. Don’t miss the Friday July 4 parade at 10 am, a Family Fun Fest at 11 am at Ino’z and patriotic concerts at 2 pm and 4 pm at the First Baptist Church.

Sunday evening, enjoy fireworks at the VFW field. More information on all events at 512-847-2201, www. wimberley.org.

JULY 4 BANDERA: Fourth of July Pet Parade.

Dogs, cats and all types of pets—from turtles to horses—parade in their finest attire. Starts at 10 am. Bandera City Park. www.banderacowboycapital. com, 830-796-­3045.

BOERNE: July 4 Fireworks Show at City Park. www.visitboerne.org.

COMFORT: July 4th Celebration. 10 am parade, community celebration at Comfort Park from 11 am to 4 pm (with moon bounces and carnival-style games for the kids, an antique tractors display, plus arts and crafts vendors, pageants, an apple pie contest and music), barbecue lunch and more. www. comfortchamberofcommerce.com.

CONCAN: Cody Johnson. Live music at House Pasture Cattle Company. www.housepasture.com.

DRIPPING SPRINGS: Fire in the Sky. Includes a fireworks display, music, food, children’s activities. Gates open at 5 pm. Dripping Springs Ranch Park.

DRIPPING SPRINGS: Fourth of July Celebration at Duchman Winery.

Enjoy a relaxing afternoon of awardwinning Duchman wine, barbecue from Chef Patrick and live, local music. Noon to 6 pm. Barbecue $14, glasses of wine $5. Tasting Room open until 6 pm. Duchman Family Winery, 13308 Farm Market 150 in Driftwood, Texas. Candace@DuchmanWines.com.

DRIPPING SPRINGS: Bob Schneider’s 4th of July Bash at the Nutty Brown Cafe. Wear your red, white and blue to this celebration of the U S of A with a spectacular fireworks show!

Starts at 6 pm. Advance tickets $17, at door $22, VIP tables available. www. nuttybrown.com.

FREDERICKSBURG: First Friday Art Walk. Tour fine art galleries offering special events, refreshments and extended viewing hours. www.ffawf. com.

ENROLLING NOW!

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HILL COUNTRY SUN R JULY 2014 PAGE 13

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JULY 5 CONCAN: Randy Rogers. Live music at House Pasture Cattle Company. www.housepasture.com.

DRIPPING SPRINGS: Doug Moreland and the Flying Armadillos. Live Texas music at Mercer Street Dance Hall. www.mercerstreetdancehall.com.

FREDERICKSBURG: USO-Style Hangar Dance. Enjoy live 1940s-style Big Band music with swing-dancing lessons. Hangar Hotel Pacific Showroom. www.hangarhotel.com.

GRUENE: Texas Tornadoes. Live music at Gruene Hall. www.gruenehall.com.

HELOTES: Gary P. Nunn. Live Texas music at John T. Floore’s Country Store. www.liveatfloores.com.

KERRVILLE: Hill Country Auto Club Open Car Show. 9 am to 5 pm at courthouse, 700 Main Street. www.hillcountryautomobileclub.com, 512-791-4481.

WIMBERLEY: Market Day. Come, shop the oldest outdoor market in the Hill Country and the second-largest in the state, offering more than 475 booths of everything you can’t live without. www.shopmarketdays.com.

JULY 5, 12, 19, 26 CEDAR PARK: Austin Steam Train Saturday Evening Express. Take a ride to Bertram enjoying the sights and sounds of the railroad, crossing highways, spanning the South San Gabriel River on the wooden trestle bridge and rolling through pastureland. www.austinsteamtrain.org 512-477-8468.

JULY 5-6 FREDERICKSBURG: Pacific Combat Living History Program. Living history demonstration covers World War II weaponry, clothing, training and tactics of U.S. and Japanese military. Programs begin at 10:30 am, 1 pm and 3:30 pm. National Museum of Pacific War Combat Zone. www.pacificwarmuseum.org.

JULY 7 WIMBERLEY: Beginner’s Quilting Demo. So, you’ve got your material picked out, now what? Join us at Katherine Anne Porter School from 2 pm to 4 pm to find out! Linda Chase from Wimberley Stitch Studio demonstrates beginning steps of piecing together a quilt for those who are just learning the art of quilting. $5 per person. Dr. Erin Flynn at eflynn@kapschool.org for more details.

JULY 7-13 LAMPASAS: Spring Ho Festival. Celebrate the heritage of this Hill Country community with an old-fashioned family festival including a parade, pageant, talent contest, museum exhibits, fishing derby, county fair, carnival, arts and crafts, barbecue cook-off, dancing, 10K and 1-mile runs, and a pet parade. On the banks of Sulphur Creek and Historic Hancock Springs. www.springho. com, 512-556-5301.

JULY 9 AUSTIN: Reckless Kelly. Free KOKE-

PAGE 14 JULY 2014 R HILL COUNTRY SUN

FM Texas Concert Series at the Nutty Brown Cafe. 6:30 pm. www. nuttybrown.com.

DRIPPING SPRINGS: Brennen Leigh and Noel McKay. Live music at Mercer Street Dance Hall. www. mercerstreetdancehall.com.

WIMBERLEY: Bonzo Crunch. Comic magic presented with a warm and whimsical style of audience participation. There will be belly laughs galore!

10:30 am at Library. More information at www.wimberleylibrary.org.

JULY 11 DRIPPING SPRINGS: The Derailers.

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

GRUENE: Bob Schneider. Live music at Gruene Hall. www.gruenehall.com.

JULY 12 AUSTIN: Old Crow Medicine Show.

Free show at the Nutty Brown Cafe. 7 pm. www.nuttybrown.com.

BOERNE: Moondance Concert Series.

Enjoy live music under the stars and oak trees. Cibolo Nature Center, 140 City Park Road. www.cibolo.org, 830249-4616.

BOERNE: Second Saturday Art and Wine. Enjoy a glass of wine as you stroll through the art galleries. 4 pm to 8 pm at various venues. www.secondsaturdayartandwine.com.

CONCAN: Jack Ingram.. Live music at House Pasture Cattle Company. www. housepasture.com.

GRUENE: Dale Watson. Live music at Gruene Hall. www.gruenehall.com.

MARBLE FALLS: Founders Day. Community celebrates its 1887 founding with music, exhibits, food, stories and demonstrations of skills from the past.

Lakeside Pavilion, 307 Buena Vista. www.fallsmuseum.org, 830-693-4449.

JULY 12-13 BOERNE: Market Days. Artists, crafters and vendors share their creative talents and wares to the sounds of homegrown Texas musicians on Main Plaza. www. boernemarketdays.

DRIPPING SPRINGS: THCBRA $1,000 Barrel Race at Dripping Springs Ranch Park Event Center, 1042 DS Ranch Road 12. email THCBRA@aol.com or call 512-784-3008.

JULY 13 BANDERA: Frontier Times Museum Cowboy Camp. Enjoy listening to traditional cowboy music, or bring your guitar and join in the song circle. 1 pm to 4 pm at the Frontier Times Museum. www.frontiertimesmuseum.org.

JULY 16 WIMBERLEY: Back into Nature with naturalist David Womer. 10:30 am at the Village Library. www.wimberleylibrary.org.

JULY 17 WIMBERLEY: Susanna’s Kitchen presents The Austin Lounge Lizards. Susanna’s Kitchen Coffeehouse, Corner of Ranch Road 12 and County Road 1492,

Wimberley United Methodist Church; Doors open by 7 pm, concert 7:30-9:30 pm. $15 adults at door ($5 students under 18) Pizza, tamales, Wimberley Pie Company pie, coffee, soft drinks available. For information, contact sharonreece37@gmail.com, 831-601-2395.

JULY 17-18 GRUENE: The Mavericks. Live music at Gruene Hall. www.gruenehall.com.

JULY 18-19 MARBLE FALLS: Marble Falls Rodeo.

Enjoy rodeo events, a downtown parade and dance. Charles Taylor Arena. www.marblefalls.org, 830-693-4449.

JULY 18-20 FREDERICKSBURG: Trade Days. Shop with more than 350 vendors in six barns, plus acres of antiques and collectibles, or kick back and enjoy the biergarten and live music. Seven miles east of town off U.S. Highway 290, at 355 Sunday Farms Lane. www.fbgtradedays. com.

GEORGETOWN: TFW BBQ Cup Chase.

About 30 barbecue teams compete, plus enjoy a washer tournament, live music and children’s games. Bentwood Texas Resort, 8150 Texas 29 West. www.tfwbbq.org, 512-844-8324.

NEW BRAUNFELS: North American Jewelry and Gift Show July. New Braunfels Civic and Convention Center. www.innewbraunfels.com.

JULY 18 - AUGUST 2 KERRVILLE: “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.” Playhouse 2000, 305 Washington Street. www.caillouxtheater.com, 830-896-9393.

JULY 19 CONCAN: Kevin Fowler. Live music at House Pasture Cattle Company. www. housepasture.com.

CEDAR PARK: Austin Steam Train Summer Murder Mystery Flyer. Enjoy a ride with plenty of ice cream and a murder mystery. Tickets include entertainment, box dinner, beer and wine. austinsteamtrain.org, 512-477-8468.

FREDERICKSBURG: Night in Old Fredericksburg. Celebrate the food, music and culture that make Fredericksburg special at this 51st-annual event. Enjoy live music and dancing; local food, beer and wine; a carnival; and more.

Gillespie County Fairgrounds. www. gillespiefair.com/niof, 830-997-2359.

GRUENE: Cooder Graw. Live music at Gruene Hall. www.gruenehall.com.

JULY 19-20 GRUENE: Old Gruene Market Days.

Nearly 100 vendors offer uniquely crafted items and packaged Texas foods. 10 am to 5 pm. www.gruenemarketdays.com.

JULY 20 GRUENE: Van Wilks. Live music at Gruene Hall. www.gruenehall.com.

JULY 23 AUSTIN: Whisky Myers. Free KOKEFM Texas Concert Series at Nutty Brown Cafe. 6:30 pm. www.nuttybrown.com.

WIMBERLEY: Joe McDermott. Dubbed

Hill country calendar the “Maestro of Imagination” for his creative approach, and as one of the nation’s top children’s music recording artists, Joe identifies with children on a basic level and presents a musical program with meaningful and wellthought-out themes. 10:30 am at the Wimberley Village Library. www.wimberleylibrary.org.

JULY 23-25 GRUENE: Roger Creager’s Birthday Show. Live music at Gruene Hall. www. gruenehall.com.

JULY 25 CONCAN: Captain Legendary. Live music at House Pasture Cattle Company. www.housepasture.com.

HELOTES: Billy Joe Shaver. Live Texas music at John T. Floore’s Country Store. www.liveatfloores.com.

JULY 25-27 FREDERICKSBURG: Hill Country Auto Swap Meet. Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park. www.fredericksburgcarclub.com.

JULY 25-28 JUNCTION: Disc Golf PDGA Tournament. In park along Llano River, near 402 Main Street. Email flyinkdw@ gmail.com or call 325-446-5356.

JULY 26 AUSTIN: Rotel and the Hot Tomatoes.

Live music at the Nutty Brown Cafe. www.nuttybrown.com.

JULY 26 BANDERA: National Day of the American Cowboy Celebration. Enjoy Western games, music, vendors and crafts at the Frontier Times Museum.

Also, horse racing in the afternoon and evening ranch rodeo at Mansfield Park. www.ndac.weebly.com 830-796-3864.

CONCAN: Stoney LaRue. Live music at House Pasture Cattle Company. www. housepasture.com.

FREDERICKSBURG: Roots Music Series. An open-air, live concert series at Pioneer Museum. www.pioneermuseum.net/roots-music.php, 830-997-8515.

KERRVILLE: Kerr County Market Days. Handcrafted and homegrown goods from the Hill Country. 9 am to 3 pm. Courthouse Square. www.kerrmarketdays.org, 830-895-7524.

JULY 27 FREDERICKSBURG: Concert in the Park. Adelsverein Halle at the Marktplatz. 830-997-8515.

WIMBERLEY: Shakespeare Under the Stars presents “Richard III.” Young actors present a classic play. Nightly, except on Sundays. The EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens, 1101 Farm Market 2325. www.emilyann.org, 512-847-6969.

JULY 31 - AUGUST 24 KERRVILLE: Exhibits at the Kerr Arts and Cultural Center. Three exhibitions: Images, Olva and Glen Hollowell, and

Photography. Kerr Arts and Cultural Center. www.kacckerrville.com..

AUGUST 2 CONCAN: Bellamy Brothers. Live music at House Pasture Cattle Company. www.housepasture.com.

DRIPPING SPRINGS: Randy Rogers Band. Live music at Nutty Brown Cafe. www.nuttybrown.com.

AUGUST 8 CONCAN: Spazmatics. Live music at House Pasture Cattle Company. www. housepasture.com.

AUGUST 9 CONCAN: Frio River Song Festival.

Adam Carroll and Chris Carroll, Jon Dee Graham, Hal Ketchum, Kelly Mickwee, Owen Temple, more at House Pasture. www.housepasture.com.

AUGUST 30 CONCAN: Max Stalling. Live music at House Pasture Cattle Company. www. housepasture.com.

SEPTEMBER 11 WIMBERLEY: Water Crisis: Time to Get Serious. Community meeting provides opportunity to chat with experts. Get tips on lawns, household water, xeriscaping, rainwater collection, more.

Speakers on past, present and future water issues, followed by panel with audience questions. Free admission. 6 pm to 9:30 pm at the Wimberley Community Center. www.hayscard.org.

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