Hill Country Sun, Sept. 2014 by Julie Harrington

September 2014

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Suzy Mallard Moehring hill country Parks

Get out, get wet: plenty of warm weather yet

y 21-year-old grandson, Zach – the one I’ve called my travelling buddy all these Hill Country Sun years – and his friends planned a trip to Hamilton Pool and Wimberley’s Blue Hole as a last hurrah before college classes started late last month. It reminded me of all the places he and I have dipped in the water over the years. Our longest tradition is Port Aransas —we’ve taken him every year since he was almost two for a week of beach time and pool time, and before that I began taking my two children when they were in elementary school. And Zach and I have spent a week on the Frio River during Leakey’s July Jubilee for the last eight years. This summer Zach and I found new places to swim and splash around, sometimes with flippers and a snorkel – an eight-day cruise from Galveston to Cozumel, Cayman Islands, and Jamaica. But back to the Texas Hill Country and splashing around. Another LBJ birthday rolled around last month, and that reminded me that we’ve spent some time swimming in the

Okay, not a Hill Country swimming hole, but my grandson Zach and I enjoyed the blue water at Cayman Islands this summer. Photo courtesy Suzy Moehring Mallard. pool at LBJ State Park and Historic Site. We’ve been to a couple of other state parks with pools as well: Balmorhea State Park, where we swam with the fishes and Bastrop State Park, where we swam in what seemed at the time the biggest pool I had ever been in. And other pools we’ve enjoyed have been Austin’s iconic Barton Springs and Deep Eddy. A lot of our splashing in the water has been in rivers and streams and lakes: See PARKS, page 10

Molly Kate Maxwell enjoys the clear waters of the Sabinal River near Utopia. There’s still plenty of time to beat the heat in rivers and swimming holes across the beautiful Hill Country. Photo by Melissa Maxwell Ball.

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Hill Country SUN Julie Spell Harrington Publisher Advertising

Melissa Maxwell Ball Editor/Design Suzy Moehring Mallard Maxine Mayes Laurel Robertson C.J. Wright Writers Gerry Burns Delonn Bowie Adelle Spell Distribution

September 2014 Volume 25 • Number 4 • 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: The Dripping Springs Fair and Rodeo (See story, page 6.) October 3-5 features the finest in rodeo exhibitions—including a CPRA rodeo, ranch rodeo, THCBRA Barrel Race and County Roping events, plus a carnival, nightly dances and much more at Dripping Springs Ranch Park. Find details at www. drippingspringsfairandrodeo.com. Photos by Dave Wilson. • Deadline for calendar events is the 15th of each month. Email events/press releases to melissa@hillcountrysun.com. www.hillcountrysun.com

Luke, Julie and Kenzie

Julie Spell Harrington

Publisher/Advertising • 512-484-9716

julie@hillcountrysun.com

John, Melissa and Sam

Melissa Maxwell Ball

Editor/Design • 512-569-8212

melissa@hillcountrysun.com

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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hill country WILDLIFE

Beloved planet our ultimate responsibility

A DISTINCTIVE COLLECTION OF

Fine Art in the Hill Country

Gary Thornton, Coolin’ Down, Oil, 28 x 22

512-847-7278 TheArtGalleryAtWimberley.net On the Square at • 100 Oak Drive, Suite 200 in Wimberley, Texas (Across from Kiss the Cook) TERRY GRISHAM, DIRECTOR PAGE 4 SEPTEMBER 2014 R HILL COUNTRY SUN

he sound of a foot snapping twigs carries on the still, late summer air. Yes, it’s those lazy hazy days when even cicadas sound tired and birds flit through the trees, not saying much—nature’s creatures awaiting cooler temperatures, awaiting the start of migration and the sounds of birds winging overhead. Wildlife is always in some state of flux, and bird migration is more than a spring and autumn occurrence. By early July shorebirds arrive along the Texas coast—stopping by creeks, lakes and other waterways along the way—species such as Marbled Godwits, Long-billed Curlews, Ruddy Turnstone, Sanderlings, Western Sandpipers, Semipalmated, Blackbellied and Piping Plovers—all trekking south from their summer breeding grounds in the Arctic, Alaska, Canada and the western U.S. Also in early July, Purple Martins begin leaving their nest sites to gather in staging areas where they roost throughout much of the month, fattening up for their journey south. In Austin, trees near the former Highland Mall (now Austin Community College Highland), a well-known roosting site, shelter hundreds of thousands of martins. Songbirds such as Painted Buntings, Yellow Warblers, and Orchard Orioles pick their way south. Many birds were helped along by this summer’s unusual series of cool fronts, birds sailing on frontal winds to conserve energy. Beginning August 1, both Smith Point and Corpus Hawk Watches tally early migrant raptors with Mississippi Kites and Broad-winged Hawks frequently in greatest numbers. This is also the month when Ruby-throated Hummingbirds—fortified with fat and protein—head south toward their winter grounds in Central America. Interesting to note that in fall these 3-4 gram jewels travel around the Gulf Coast, perhaps to avoid hurricanes, whereas in spring they weather an arduous 20-hour flight across the Gulf. These feisty migrants coming from the north, continue to arrive in our area on into fall—stopping to replenish their reserves along the way. Because of this, it’s important that we keep feeders filled, not only for Rubythroateds but also for Allen and Rufous Hummingbirds that winter in the area. In October, many who follow the plight of the monarch butterfly anxiously await its annual migration. As an insect weighing anywhere from .27 to .75 grams, these ethereal creatures instinctively journey thousands of miles from Canada to the Sierra Chincua sanctuary in the mountains

“The care of the Earth is our most ancient and most worthy, and after all our most pleasing responsibility. To cherish what remains of it and to foster its renewal is our only hope.” Wendell Berry, American novelist, poet, environmental activist, cultural critic and farmer of Central Mexico, a place they’ve never been. How do these delicate insects know to return to the trees where their ancestors wintered? Is it imbedded in their DNA? Whatever the reason, they respond to their biological clocks and set their course. It’s known that they orient their flights using light-sensitive molecules in their antennae to calculate the sun’s position. But the mystery of how they navigate under thick cloud cover remained until a team of scientists from the University of Massachusetts Medical School conducted lab experiments and discovered that monarchs may orient themselves by using an inclination magnetic compass when daylight cues are unavailable. With this discovery, however, concern arises that human-induced electromagnetic noise could interfere with their flight, as a study proved to be the case for migrating European Robins. Considering, too, pesticides and loss habitat, including milkweed and nectaring plants, it’s tragic but not shocking to find that monarchs’ overwintering population in 2013-14 reached an all-time low. Though the monarchs aren’t endangered, their epic migration is. The soaring waves of orange, trimmedin-black butterflies surging south may be a phenomenon left to history, but some monarch watchers are cautiously optimistic that the upcoming winter will mark a modest increase over last year’s overwintering population. Many people dedicated to the survival of monarchs raise and release them. Still others create way stations, habitats where monarchs enjoy nectar plants, including milkweed, the only plant on which their See WILDLIFE, page 5

WIMBERLEY

Local chorus seeks singers

WIMBERLEY H The Wimberley Community Chorus is recruiting singers for the fall season. Rehearsals begin September 8 at 6:45 pm and continue through December 1, each Monday from 7 pm to 9 pm at the Chapel In The Hills at 14601 Ranch Road 12 North in Wimberley. Holiday concerts are planned Friday, December 5, and Saturday, December 6, at 7 pm and Sunday, December 7 at 3 pm. FYI • For more information, please call Dixie Camp at 512-517-3111 or visit the web site at www.wimberleycommunitychorus.org.

Powwow celebrating Native American heritage October 11 SAN MARCOS H A 32-foot tipi, archeological displays, White Shaman Panel lectures, screening of the award-winning film “Yakona,” and amazing dancers will be highlighted at the 2014 Sacred Springs Powwow October 11 from 10 am to 6 pm at the new Meadows Center. More than 100 Native American dancers and arts vendors are expected at the powwow this year. Indigenous food booths will also be available with fry bread, buffalo tacos, buffalo stew, turkey legs, and other Native foods. The powwow will open at 10 am with the traditional blessing by the sacred springs conducted by Native American elders. Young fancy dancer. Dancing begins at 11 am with Gourd Photo courtesy Indigenous Cultures Institute. Dancers, the spiritual guardians of the powwow arena. The Grand Entry, when all of the powwow dancers enter the arena for the first time, begins at noon. FYI • A powwow is a festival celebrating Native American culture with drums, dancers dressed in phenomenal regalia, traditional singers, and an Indian Market with Native foods, arts and crafts. San Marcos first experienced a powwow in 1995 when the Lucky Tomblin family brought Kiowa and other indigenous people to the area. The Sacred Springs Powwow is in its fourth year of production and is sponsored by local nonprofit Indigenous Cultures Institute. The event is funded by the San Marcos Arts Commission, the Tomblin Family Foundation, Texas Commission on the Arts, Rancho Deluxe in Wimberley, Heritage Association of San Marcos, and sponsors include Texas State University, Skyline Entertainment & Party Bus Co., and Affordable Golf Carts. The Meadows Center (formerly known as Aquarena Center) is at 921 Aquarena Springs Drive in San Marcos. For more information, call 512-393-3310 or visit the web site at www.IndigenousCultures.org.

WILDLIFE, from page 4

larva feed. And while people—especially along the eastern seaboard—reported scant to no monarchs visiting their yards over the summer, observers elsewhere noted an uptick in the number of monarchs, eggs and larva sighted, leading to the optimism. So, as summer draws to a close, birders, monarch watchers and all intrigued by nature’s awe-inspiring marvels, focus eyes, ears and scopes, alerting to and recording the passing of winged migrants. At season’s end, the numbers will tell the story. Some climatologists warn that Texas could be in the midst of a drought rivaling that of the 1950s, known as the drought of record. More than 301 million trees died of drought-related causes in 2011, according to the Texas Forest Service. Streams are dry and the Highland Lakes are at about 30 percent capacity. Will our land offer adequate food, water and shelter for migrants seeking respite from their journeys? Last winter found fewer Cedar Waxwings and American Robins visiting, perhaps because habitats didn’t produce adequate berries or because they were hard and dry. Moving beyond Texas to around the world, we find severe environmental is-

sues that impact not only wildlife but also our own quality of life and perhaps our survival. Much is man-made. The heavy and prolonged use of pesticides is destroying nature’s balance. Without insects, plants aren’t pollinated. Without insects, insectivorous birds starve. Without insects birds cannot feed their nestlings. Agribusiness replaced small-time farmers who knew to plant cover crops to inhibit weeds, minimizing if not eliminating the need for pesticides. The sad truth is that we have more than one canary in the gold mine. Fewer monarchs, honeybee die-offs and declines in many bird populations are just a few. If El Nino predictions for 2014 prove correct, substantial rains may quench our thirsty land, at least for the short term. In the meantime, providing food and water for migrants is vital. Change birdbath water daily to prevent mosquito larva from developing. “The care of the Earth is our most ancient and most worthy, and after all our most pleasing responsibility. To cherish what remains of it and to foster its renewal is our only hope.” -Wendell Berry, American novelist, poet, environmental activist, cultural critic and farmer.

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Annual Fair and Rodeo, western fun for family

By Laurel Robertson

ith the assurance of 166,000 square feet of “weather insurance” overhead, the Dripping Springs Fair and Rodeo could adapt the Post Office’s creed to say: “Neither rain, nor mud, nor heat, nor gloom of night shall stay these riders from their swift competitions.” Underneath the protection of Dripping Springs Ranch Park’s Event Center’s roof, the show will go on - rain or (too much) shine! October 3, 4 and 5, spectators at the third annual Dripping Springs Fair and Rodeo can enjoy the finest in rodeo exhibitions: a CPRA rodeo, a ranch rodeo, THCBRA Barrel Race and County Roping events—all beneath the largest covered arena within at least a day’s ride in any direction. Add to that a Fun Time Carnival and nightly dances, and you’ve got something everyone can enjoy! Co-sponsored by the Dripping Springs Ag Boosters and the City of Dripping Springs, the event is put on by volunteers and raises money to support youth—buying projects at the Hays County Livestock Expo, funding scholarships for qualifying FFA and 4H seniors, and purchasing equipment for high school ag programs. Festivities begin Friday at 5 pm with the opening of the Fun Time Rides carnival midway. The CPRA Rodeo begins at 7 pm with bareback and saddle bronc ridings, calf and team roping events, wom-

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Experience the excitement of saddle bronc riding at the CPRA Rodeo Friday, October 3. Photo by Dave Wilson. en’s barrel racing and break-away roping, bull riding, and a calf scramble and mutton-busting competitions. A dance afterwards in the Event Center’s Special Events Hall will feature the live music of the Sam Bentley Band. Saturday morning will commence with a free Cowboy Breakfast served from chuck wagons beginning at 8 am, along with a Slack Competition in the arena area. The Fun Time Ride midway opens at 10 am and the Knights of Columbus’ washer-pitching contest begins under the live oak trees at 11 am. Full concessions with barbecue, hamburgers, hotdogs, chili and sides will be served from noon on by the Dripping Springs Ag Boosters Club. A traditional Ranch Rodeo begins at 1 pm, highlighting necessary ranching skills such as trailer loading, yoking, steer roping, branding—and a few frivolities like wild cow milking. Saturday evening’s events include more CPRA Rodeo, followed by a dance featuring the music of Pauline Reese. Prize purses for rodeo winners will be determined by the number of entrants, with an addition $6,000 donated by the Ag Boosters and the City of Dripping Springs. The rodeo is put on by Diamond Cross Rodeo, who supply livestock and run all of the competitions. Sunday will see Jackpot Team Roping and the final hours of the carnival midway. All three days, vendors will offer booths in the Event Center’s Vendors Hall, selling delights such as western clothing, boots, hats, decor and more. “We can put this whole thing on because we now have the Dripping Springs Ranch Park Event Center,” explains Rich Moore, president of Dripping Springs Ag Boosters and president of its Rodeo Committee. “It’s the largest and best event center of its kind in Hays County.” Just more than a year old, the Event Center has hosted a variety of gatherings, See FAIR AND RODEO, page 7

DRIPPING SPRINGS

FAIR AND RODEO, from page 6

Presenting the flag at the annual Dripping Springs Fair and Rodeo. This year’s event is October 3-5. Photo by Dave Wilson.

from art shows to rodeos, symposiums to food festivals. With a 225‘ by 150’ arena, flanked by pens and seating areas, both bleacher and VIP, it’s designed to serve the needs of the equestrian community and more. A long vendor hall opens off of the 12,000 square-foot, climate-controlled Special Events Room. The Events Center is located at the front of Dripping Springs Ranch Park, a 64-acre multi-use park owned by the City of Dripping Springs. The public park offers miles of horse riding trails, a crushed granite pedestrian trail, a playground and open play areas, primitive tent campsites, picnic areas, paths that support bicycles and wheelchairs and a six-acre conservation area along Little Barton Creek. A smaller outdoor arena at the back of the park is available for riding, and the original farmhouse is available for rental for meetings or gatherings. FYI • The third annual Dripping Springs Fair and Rodeo is October 3-5 at Dripping Springs Ranch Park Event Center, 1042 DS Ranch Road in Dripping Springs. For a schedule of events and more information, visit the web site at drippingspringsfairandrodeo.com or call 512-858-4725.

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Songwriters fest brings three days of live music

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DRIPPING SPRINGS H Get ready for an exciting weekend of phenomenal singer/ songwriter showcases October 17-19 at the Dripping Springs Songwriters Festival. The event offers listeners an up-close and personal chance to see, hear, and meet talented performers who possess a deep love of the art of songwriting. Highlighted by a list of esteemed local and national talent, this first annual event features more than 20 shows a day. Audiences will be treated to a wide variety of songs and the people and stories behind them as groups of songwriters from across the country perform “in-the-round,” Nashville-style. Event stages will be hosted by The Barber Shop Bar, Mazama Coffee Company, The Mercantile and Mercer Street Dance Hall—all located within walking distance of each other along historic Mercer Street in downtown Dripping Springs. Daily performances are free for all. An evening concert on the Main Stage at Mercer Street Dance Hall will feature a headliner showcase including a list of award-winning songwriting talent – some have earned Grammy awards – all have had #1 hits. FYI • For more information, and to purchase tickets for the Evening Showcases, visit the web site at drippingspringssongwritersfestival.com.

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Sisterdale Smokehouse has good story, great barbecue

By Maxine Mayes

wo married couples, good friends for years, each individual holding down day jobs, decide to run a barbecue restaurant two weekends out of every month. Sounds like the synopsis of a new television sitcom or reality show, but it’s real life for John and Lori Maywald of Boerne and Enfrain and Michele Montemayor of San Antonio who co-own the Sisterdale Smokehouse. It all began more than 20 years ago when John built a big barbecue grill for his back yard. Soon he was competing in barbecue cook-offs where he consistently won awards for his brisket and ribs. “All who loved his ribs and brisket knew that it was only a matter of time before he would become Pit Master of his own restaurant,” says Dave Morgan of Boerne, who’s known John and Lori since 1994. But John never intended to be a Pit Master, even when he and his partners purchased a vacant building (formerly a restaurant) at the edge of Sisterdale as an investment. The plan was to lease the building, but four years passed with still no tenant in sight. So, in 2011, the Maywalds and Montemayors resorted to opening their own restaurant to, hopefully, make the mortgage payments. A gravel drive, front and side porches, and a wooden windmill give the weathered building the appearance of an old ranch homestead. The interior is rustic with rough exposed ceiling beams and paneling of barn wood and rusty tin. A large picture of Willie Nelson anchors the “Texas Music Wall” in the main dining area. The wall pays tribute to other legendary musicians including both Georges - Jones and Strait. Humorous or thought-provoking signs (all for sale) decorate the walls. One reads: “If you ain’t God or George Strait, clean your table.” Another advises “Celebrate like someone forgot to lock the gate,” which seems to capture the spirit of folks who eat at the Smokehouse.

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“My husband, Doug, and I eat there every weekend it’s open and enjoy the community there,” remarks Barbara Ballard. “The Smokehouse is a way for people to connect out here. We always feel welcome and catered to. Can’t give enough kudos to the Smokehouse crew.” Another area resident, Margaret Thompson, says, “The owners make you feel like family. The two girls out front are so friendly and vivacious.” Lori and Michele stand behind the counter, taking orders with a smile and maintaining a cheerful demeanor in spite of the sometimes frenzied pace. Enfrain mans the kitchen and makes the sides; John tends the succulent meats on the Oyler pit out back. “John knows his stuff,” asserts Dave Morgan. “And everyone that eats his barbecue appreciates his passion.” Elizabeth Stein of Boerne, who places her “to go” item bi-weekly, praises John’s brisket: “It has a delicious rub and crust...and a smoke ring that shows it’s been on the pit awhile.” Judy Kennell, who owns nearby bed and breakfast, Paniolo Ranch, says, “It’s been a God-send to have their restaurant available to my guests....[they] thank us for the recommendation and have always enjoyed the great barbecue.” The Smokehouse menu features brisket, ribs, sausage, and chicken; sandwiches served on Texas Toast; and a baked potato stuffed with brisket. Sides are traditional: beans, cole slaw, and potato salad with the surprising addition of a pea salad. Desserts vary but generally include banana pudding and pecan pie. See SISTERDALE SMOKEHOUSE, page 9

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PAGE 8 SEPTEMBER 2014 R HILL COUNTRY SUN

Sisterdale Smokehouse. Photo by Carl Mayes.

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SISTERDALE SMOKEHOUSE, from page 8

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Paradise is closer than you think! Sisterdale Smokehouse owners LEFT TO RIGHT Enfrain and Michele Montemayor and Lori and John Maywald. Photo by Carl Mayes. Daniel Vaughn (aka the Barbecue Snob), Barbecue Editor of Texas Monthly magazine, gave the Smokehouse a page in his book The Prophets of Smoked Meat: A Journey Through Texas Barbecue. On his blog, Vaughn once rated the restaurant 5 out of 6 stars and said of John’s way with chicken, “Smoked chicken is not something I’m used to gushing about, but this was poultry nirvana.” If the Smokehouse were a show, it might be up for an Emmy, since its many loyal fans continue to give rave reviews

to its once-reluctant Pit Master and his “supporting cast.” “They bend over backwards to make sure you are enjoying yourself,” say Dennis and Rosemary Dooley. “It really is a diamond in the beautiful Texas Hill Country.” FYI • The Sisterdale Smokehouse is at 1123 Sisterdale Road at the intersection of Farm Markets 1376 and 473. The restaurant is open the first and third Saturday and Sunday of every month from 11 am to 7 pm, “or ‘til we run out!” For more information, call 830-324-6858 or visit the web site at www.sisterdalesmokehouse.com, where you’ll also find a calendar schedule.

Art fest in Comfort September 20 COMFORT H Artists from across the region will gather in Comfort September 20 to show and sell their works at the Hill Country Art Festival. This fall art show spotlights works of Hill Country artists in a variety of media and celebrates their unique artistic inspirations and talents. Artists will offer displays at merchants, bed-andbreakfasts and wineries in Comfort and the surrounding area. A list of artists and their locations will be available at participating sites. FYI • Festival hours are 10 am to 5 pm. For more information, contact Julie Kuykendall, event chairperson, at Kendall1@gvtc.com, visit the web site at www.comfortchamberofcommerce.com or call 830-995-3131. You can also find the Comfort Chamber of Commerce on Facebook.

Fossils, quilts, more at KACC KERRVILLE H See fossils representing more than 500 million years of the Hill Country’s geological evolution at the Kerr Arts and Cultural Center this month in an interactive exhibit fascinating and educational for adults and students alike. Ted Schulenberg, local geologist and curator of the exhibit, describes Hill Country geology in poetic terms: “The Texas Hill Country and the plateau from which the hills have been carved, Enchanted Rock, Pedernales Falls, our caves and caverns, our cool clear springs and rivers - all have evolved from the unique geology of this beautiful area. The flint that was prized by the Native Americans, the granite from which our capitol was built, the productive gypsum, limestone and gravel quarries, a modest smattering of oil production and even silver that was mined by the early Spaniards all owe their existence to this same unique geology.” Also during September, in the Cornels Gallery, visitors can enjoy a collection of quilts inspired by original paintings and photography. While many quilters stick with iterations of traditional designs, these works of art by a diverse group of Hill Country quilters focus on applying time-honored quilting techniques to producing a more contemporary look and feel. FYI • Both the Fossils and the Quilts exhibits will run through September 28. Kerr Arts and Cultural Center is located at 228 Earl Garrett in downtown Kerrville. Gallery hours are 10 am to 4 pm Tuesday through Saturday and 1 pm to 4 pm Sunday. For more information, visit the web site at www.kacckerrville.com or call 830-895-2911.

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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. 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. 830825-3465. WIMBERLEY: Hill Country Community Band Meets at First Baptist Church. 512-858-7960. 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. Sil-

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ver Sage Senior Center. 830-796-4969. THIRD TUESDAYS NEW BRAUNFELS: Country Music Show. Knights of Columbus. 830-6294547. 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. FIRST THURSDAY BUDA: First Thursday. Stroll through downtown shops, enjoy downtown restaurants. www.discoverbuda.com. SECOND THURSDAY WIMBERLEY: Hill Country Bead Society Meets. Wimberley Community

Center. 1 pm. Marilyn Pierce at mp@ smpierce.net. FIRST AND THIRD THURSDAY CANYON LAKE: Noon Lions meet at Canyon Lake Golf Club. 830-899-4406. THIRD THURSDAY WIMBERLEY: Susanna’s Kitchen Coffeehouse presents some of the best in Central Texas’ musical talent. Concerts held at Wimberley United Methodist Church, Corner Ranch Road 12 and County Road 1492. Doors open by 7 pm, concert at 7:30 pm. Free child care; tamales, pizza, pie, coffee, soft drinks available. Tickets at door. For listing of performers, visit the web site at www. wimberleyumc.com. EVERY THURSDAY, FRIDAY, SATURDAY WIMBERLEY: Live Music at Linda’s Fine Foods. Delicious food, beautiful music at 500 Farm Market 2325. 512847-5464. www.facebook.com/LindasFineFoods. EVERY FRIDAY BLANCO: Tasting Room Open and Brewery Tours at Real Ale Brewing Company. www.realalebrewing.com. EVERY FRIDAY 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: Preschool Story Time at the Wimberley Village Library. 10:30 am. 512-847-2188, www.wimberleylibrary.org. WIMBERLEY: Celebrate Recovery. First Baptist Church Youth Building. 7 pm to 9 pm, with pizza at 6:30 pm. 512847-9035.

PARKS, from page 2 Inks Lake State Park where we went on a canoe tour, Pedernales State Park and McKinney Falls State Park where we enjoyed water cascading over the rocks, Lost Maples State Park where we got ourselves on a ledge under a waterfall, Garner State Park where the kids splashed into the water from a rope swing, Krause Springs where Zach and his friends found another waterfall, Austin’s Bull Creek Park where tossing a Frisbee in the water is great sport, and Austin’s Emma Long Park for camping and splashing. All that to say, we have some fabulous parks in the Texas Hill Country to get us out and wet while this hot weather hangs on – and I’m pretty sure it will be hanging on for a bit. Getting outdoors just got easier for many kids around Texas as Texas Parks and Wildlife announced grants to organizations across the state. These 22 community outdoors outreach grants will get Texas children in touch with nature, especially kids who haven’t spent much time in nature. The grant program director, Darlene Lewis, expects the grants to reach 12,500 kids with nature-based programs and an

emphasis on environmental stewardship. In our chunk of the state, grants will go to five groups in Austin, one in Georgetown, and one in San Antonio. Grants to Austin’s Ascent Outdoor Adventures, Camp Fire Balcones, Chautauqua Foundation, Explore Austin, and Youth Launch will teach kids outdoor skills classes, including backpacking, camping, paddling, rock climbing, environmental education, nature photography, mountain biking, kayaking, geocaching, birding, fishing, and orienteering. A grant to Georgetown’s Williamson County Juvenile Services will enable 250 youth in the juvenile justice system and their families to take part in outdoor adventure experiences such as biking, fishing, rock-climbing, camping, and kayaking in state parks and along Texas rivers. In San Antonio a grant will expand Project ACORN – Alamo-Area Children Organized to Replant Natives – outdoor activities to five schools in Northside ISD allowing 250 additional students to travel to Government Canyon State Natural Area to collect native seeds from trees for replanting.

Hill country calendar SECOND FRIDAY CASTROVILLE: Friday Night Fever. Cars, trucks, bikes, food, shopping. 6 pm to 10 pm. Lundquist Automotive. www.castroville.com, 830-931-2479. WIMBERLEY: Wimberley Area Parkinsons Association Meeting. Chapel of The Hills Church, 11 am. 512-847-7953. WIMBERLEY: Wimberley Community Civic Club Meeting. (September through November, January through May) 11 am at Chapel in the Hills, 14601 Ranch Road 12. September lunch catered by Linda’s Fine Foods. Cost in September is $12 for members and $10 for guests. If you are not a member and would like to attend, contact Milly Maxey at millymaxey@gmail.com or Aurora LeBrun at 512-847-3595. 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, branding, archery, old fashioned photos, a cowboy stage show, gunslingers, line dancing and entertainment. www.flyingl.com, 800-2925134. BEE CAVE: Thundering Paws Animal Sanctuary Adoptions at PetSmart. Noon to 4 pm. Hill Country Galleria, 12812 Shops Parkway. www.thunderingpaws.org. COMFORT: Comfort Area Farmer’s Market. 8 am to 1 pm. Comfort Park, 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: Tour Jacob’s Well. Hear stories about floods, divers, experience beauty of spring that started town. 10 am. www.jacobswellspring.org. WIMBERLEY: Arnosky Family Farms Market. Fresh flowers, vegetables, more. Ranch Road 2325 and Highway 165. 830-833-5428.

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 and fun begins 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.

SECOND SATURDAY CASTROVILLE: Market Trail Days. Houston Square. 830-539-2316. SECOND AND FOURTH SATURDAY WIMBERLEY: Toastmasters Club. Learn public speaking and leadership skills. 10:30 am. Wimberley Village Library, Friends Room. 512-913-4804. 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.

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FOURTH SATURDAY AND SUNDAY Johnson City: Market Days. Food, artisans, vendors and more. 830-8687684, JohnsonCityTexasChamber.com. SEPTEMBER 1 JUNCTION: Kimble County Labor Day Celebration. Annual arts, crafts, and music festival offers fun, food and entertainment along the Llano River. www.junctiontexas.com. SEPTEMBER 1-12 INGRAM: Moveable Feat: The Artist Journey. Judged selection of works at Hill Country Arts Foundation. www. hcaf.com, 830-367-5121. SEPTEMBER 1-21 AUSTIN: In the Company of Cats and Dogs. Exhibit explores man’s enduring fascination with dogs, what our relationships with them say about us. Blanton Museum of Art. www.blanton museum.org SEPTEMBER 1-28 KERRVILLE: Quilts and Other Art Forms. Exhibit of quilts inspired by works of art, photography. Kerr Arts and Cultural Center. www.kacckerrville.com, 830-895-2911. SEPTEMBER 1 - OCTOBER 3 KERRVILLE: Photoquest. See photos from Hill Country Camera Club’s annual photographic competition. Kerr Arts and Cultural Center, 228 Earl Garrett Street. www.kacckerrville.com, 830-895-2911.

SEPTEMBER 1 - OCTOBER 5 AUSTIN: Backwards in High Heels: Getting Women Elected, 1842-1990. Austin History Center. www.austinhistorycenter.org, 512-974-7480. SEPTEMBER 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 fundamental working relationships between people and animals in two countries half a world apart. The Wittliff Collections, Alkek Library at Texas State University. www.thewittliffcollections.txstate.edu, 512-245-2313. SAN MARCOS: Coming to Light: New Acquisitions. Debut of works by 42 internationally acclaimed and emerging photographers, including Kate Breakey, Keith Carter, Lee Friedlander, Graciela Iturbide, Richard Misrach, Geoff Winningham and Mariana Yampolsky. Wittliff Collections. Texas State University. www.thewittliffcollections.txstate.edu. SEPTEMBER 3 KERRVILLE: Texas Music Coffeehouse Series presents Blues and Jimmie Rodgers favorites’ with Johnny Nicholas. 7 pm to 9 pm, Cailloux Activity Center, Schreiner University. kat@texasheritagemusic.org. FREDERICKSBURG: First Friday Art Walk. Art galleries offer special events,

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Shake Russell performs at Susanna’s Kitchen in Wimberley September 18. Photo courtesy Susanna’s Kitchen Coffeehouse.

refreshments and extended viewing hours. www.ffawf.com. SEPTEMBER 4 WIMBERLEY: Katherine Anne Porter School Annual Spaghetti Supper Fundraiser. Proceeds go to the Parent/Teacher/Student Organization to fund work supporting staff and students. 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. To-go plates available. 512847-6867, www.kapschool.org. SEPTEMBER 6 MARBLE FALLS: Starving Artists’ Show. Featuring art by local artists in Highland Arts Guild. www.highland artsguild.org. WIMBERLEY: WAG Dog Adoption Day at The Starr Agency. 10 am to 2 pm, 12589 Ranch Road 12. 512-8473200, wimberleywagrescue.org. WIMBERLEY: Market Days. Everything you can’t live without at Lions Field. 475-plus booths, free admission. 7 am to 4 pm. www.shopmarketdays. com. SEPTEMBER 6, 13, 20, 27 CEDAR PARK: Hill Country Flyer. Ride to Burnet by steam train, enjoy lunch and shopping during a 2.5-hour layover. Departs at 10 am, returns 4 pm. www.austinsteamtrain.org. SEPTEMBER 6-28 WIMBERLEY: “Goldilocks and the Three Bears” EmilyAnn Theatre and Gardens www.emilyann.org. SEPTEMBER 9 NEW BRAUNFELS: Comal County Genealogy Society Picnic. Landa Park Pavilion #16. Gather at 5 pm, supper at 6:30 pm. Members free, charge for friends and family. Members asked to bring side dishes or desserts. Call Terry at 830-608-9659. SEPTEMBER 9 - JANUARY 4, 2015 AUSTIN: “Making of ‘Gone With the Wind.’” Exhibition from producer David O. Selznick’s archive reveals new stories and illustrates why film remains

Hill country calendar influential 75 years. Ransom Center www.hrc.utexas.edu/exhibitions. SEPTEMBER 11 WIMBERLEY: Water Crisis: Time to Get Serious. Community meeting provides opportunity to chat with experts. Tips on lawns, household water, xeriscaping, rainwater, more. Speakers on past, present and future water issues; panel with audience questions. Free. 6 pm to 9:30 pm at Wimberley Community Center. www.hayscard.org. SEPTEMBER 12 GRUENE: Los Lonely Boys. Live music at Gruene Hall. www.gruenehall.com. WIMBERLEY: Wimberley Community Civic Club’s “Step Out in Style” Show. Nine Wimberley area boutiques showcase the latest in fall, winter and holiday fashions, modeled by Civic Club members. 11 am. Chapel in the Hills. SEPTEMBER 12-14 FREDERICKSBURG: Fall Planting Days. There’ll be daily lectures and demonstrations by John R. Thomas showing successful and timely planting techniques at Wildseed Farms. www. wildseedfarms.com. UTOPIA: 6th Annual UTOPiAfest. Mind-blowing musical performances and breathtaking Hill Country sunsets await at gorgeous Four Sisters Ranch, the idyllic setting for this family friendly music festival. Camping, BYOB, capped audience. 25-plus acts, no overlap. Tickets and complete information at www.utopiafest.com. SEPTEMBER 12 – OCTOBER 5 WIMBERLEY: The Wimberley Players present “Young Frankenstein.” The Wimberley Playhouse. www.wimberleyplayers.org. SEPTEMBER 13 CANYON LAKE: CRRC Market Day. 9 am to 4 pm at CRRC Recreation Center below the dam. Call 830-964-3003 for registration. crrcofcanyonlake.org DRIPPING SPRINGS: Dripping With Taste Festival. Enjoy the wares of Texas distilleries, Texas wines and craft beers, gourmet food demonstrations, specialty vendors, live music, grape stomping and more. Dripping Springs Ranch Park. Noon to 7 pm. www.drippingwithtaste.com. DRIPPING SPRINGS: WAG Dog Adoption Day at Whole Pets Market. 10 am to 2 pm, 911 Highway 290 West. 512-8473200, wimberleywagrescue.org. FREDERICKSBURG: Fredericksburg Professional Bull Riders. Must-see event features 40 of the PBR’s best riders and some of the crankiest bulls at Gillespie County Fairgrounds. www. gillespiefair.com. GRUENE: Max Stalling. Live music at Gruene Hall. www.gruenehall.com. GRUENE: Gruene 10K. www.AthleteGuild.com, www.GrueneTexas.com. WIMBERLEY: Bootiful Wimberley Baring Our Boots Celebration. Be among the first to see all of the “Bootiful

Wimberley” boots on display in one licking stories, get a pirate tattoo, have location, enjoy live music, wine and fun with pirate crafts and more. 3:30 pm refreshments. Plus, take part in a boot to 5 pm. www.wimberleylibrary.org. auction, silent auction of treats from SEPTEMBER 19-21 Wimberley businesses, art and more. FREDERICKSBURG: Trade Days. Enjoy Wimberley Community Center, 6 pm to more than 350 vendors in six barns, a 9 pm. www.bootifulwimberley.com. biergarten and live music. 355 Sunday SEPTEMBER 18 Farms Lane. www.fbgtradedays.com. GRUENE: Come and Taste It. Compli- SEPTEMBER 20 mentary tastings offered of craft beer COMFORT: Hill Country Art Festival. and wines from Texas wineries. 5 pm Artists displays at merchants, bed-andto 8 pm at Grapevine Texas Wine Bar. breakfasts and wineries in Comfort and www.grapevineingruene.com. the surrounding area. List of artists MASON: Texas Songwriters in the and locations available at participating Round. Live entertainment every third sites. 10 am to 5 pm. www.comfortchamThursday at 5 pm at Sandstone Cellars berofcommerce.com. Winery. 325-347-5758. FREDERICKSBURG: Nimitz FoundaWIMBERLEY: Susanna’s Kitchen pres- tion Symposium. Hear internationally ents Shake Russell. Music 7:30 pm, doors 7 pm. Food, beverages available. Wimberley United Methodist Church, Corner Ranch Road 12, County Road 1492. www.facebook.com/groups/susannaskitchen/ SEPTEMBER 19 WIMBERLEY: Talk Like a Pirate Day at the Wimberley Library. Special program with (actors1 from YF HCSpirates Sept.qxp_Layout 8/23/14Wimberley 12:30 PM Page 1 Players). Young shipmates can hear rol-

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HILL COUNTRY SUN R SEPTEMBER 2014 PAGE 13

Hill country calendar

recognized scholars, authors, historians and veterans as they share their personal experiences and offer insight into World War II history. Steve W. Shepherd Theater. www.pacificwarmuseum.org GRUENE: Kelly Willis and Bruce Robison. www.gruenehall.com. NEW BRAUNFELS: Marty Stuart in Concert at the Brauntex Theater. 830627-0808. SAN MARCOS: Junior Water Safari. Simplified version of Texas Water Safari for younger, less experienced canoeists and kayakers. San Marcos City Park. www.texaswatersafari.org/texas-junior-water-safari. WIMBERLEY: WAG Dog Adoption Day at King Feed. 10 am to 2 pm, 14210 Ranch Road 12. 512-847-3200, wimberleywagrescue.org. SEPTEMBER 20-21 GRUENE: Old Gruene Market Days. Nearly 100 vendors offer uniquely crafted items and packaged Texas foods. Gruene Historic District. www.gruenemarketdays.com. SEPTEMBER 21 ROUND ROCK: Texas Classic Car Show at Rudy’s Country Store and Bar-B-Q. www.texasccs.org SEPTEMBER 26 KERRVILLE: 18th Annual Texas Heritage Music Day. More than 50 performers and demonstrators gather together from 9 am to 1:30 pm at Schreiner University. Enjoy Native American songs

and dances, historical arts and crafts, Buffalo soldiers, living history demonstrations, storytellers, music and more. Texas Public Radio hosts a reception at 6:30 pm, Terri Hendrix and Lloyd Maines perform a free community concert at 7:30 pm. www.texasheritagemusic.org. SEPTEMBER 27 GRUENE: Delbert McClinton at Gruene Hall. www.gruenehall.com. DRIPPING SPRINGS: 24th Annual Dr. Pound Historical Farmstead and Museum Pioneer Day. Reenactments, children’s area, tours, old time store, music, artisan demonstrations, food and much more. drpoundhistoricalfarmstead.org. SAN ANTONIO: The Texanischer Gebirgs Sangerfest and Area German Choirs. 1 pm at the Herman Sons Grand Lodge, 515 South Saint Mary’s Street. Free admission. 830-625-8937. SEPTEMBER 27-28 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Sami Show Marketplace. Arts, crafts and home décor at Dripping Springs Ranch Park. www. samishow.com. JOHNSON CITY: Market Days. Food, artisans and vendors at Memorial Park. www.johnsoncity-texas.com. OCTOBER 1 KERRVILLE: Texas Music Coffeehouse Series presents Max Baca and Los Texmaniacs. 7 pm to 9 pm, Cailloux Activity Center, Schreiner University, 2100 Me-

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LA GRANGE

morial Boulevard. 830-792-1945, kat@ texasheritagemusic.org. OCTOBER 3-5 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Dripping Springs Fair and Rodeo. Rodeo, evening dances, carnival and more. Dripping Springs Ranch Park. www.drippingspringsfairandrodeo.com. OCTOBER 10-11 WIMBERLEY: 35th Annual Wimberley Gospel Music Festival. Friday 5 pm to 9 pm, Saturday 11 am to 9 pm in Fischer, Texas. Complete schedule and map on web site at www.wimberleygospelmusic.com. OCTOBER 11 SAN MARCOS: Sacred Springs Powwow. Festival celebrating Native American culture with drums, dancers, food and arts, crafts. 10 am to 6 pm. Meadows Center. www.IndigenousCultures.org. OCTOBER 11 GARDEN RIDGE: Holiday Marketplace. Silent auction, hand-made quilt raffle and food, plus more than 50 vendors with unique, one-of-a-kind gifts. Admission $2. 10 am to 4 pm. Garden Ridge Community Center, FM 3009 9500 Municipal Parkway. OCTOBER 17 WIMBERLEY: Susanna’s Kitchen presents Hardin and Burns. Concert begin at 7:30 pm, doors open by 7 pm. Food and beverages available. Wimberley United Methodist Church, Corner of Ranch Road 12 and County Road 1492.

www.facebook.com/groups/susannaskitchen/ OCTOBER 17-19 DRIPPING SPRINGS: Dripping Springs Songwriters Festival. 28 featured songwriters, four venues and four stages, more than 30 showcases including award-winning headliners. www.drippingspringssongwritersfestival.com. OCTOBER 18 WIMBERLEY: Wimberley Home and Garden Show. Accepting vendors. Wimberley Community Center. 10 am to 4 pm. 512-913-2900, email jamieclarke21@gmail.com OCTOBER 25 WIMBERLEY: 11th Annual Hunter’s Night Out Gun Raffle. 6 pm, St. Mary Catholic Church. Tickets $25, 4 for $120, include meal, beverages. www.wimberleykchunter.org. NOVEMBER 1 UTOPIA: 49th Annual Utopia Art and Craft Fair. More than 60 booths with vendors offering handmade arts and crafts, plus food, music and a silent auction. Free admission. 9 am to 4 pm on the Square, Highway 187. Email utopiafallfair@gmail.com. NOVEMBER 20 WIMBERLEY: Susanna’s Kitchen presents Eliza Gilkyson. Music at 7:30 pm, doors at 7 pm. Food, beverages available. Wimberley United Methodist Church, www.facebook.com/groups/ susannaskitchen/.

Hill country calendar

35th Annual Wimberley

Gospel Music

Festival

October 10-11 in FISCHER, TEXAS Friday 5 pm - 9 pm & Saturday 11 am - 9 pm