Texas Hill Country Culture - March 2020 by Kerrville Daily Times

MARCH 2020

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WHERE THE ROAD MIGHT TAKE YOU NATURAL WONDERS AT OLD TUNNEL STATE PARK AMAZING PHOTO OPS AT DEVIL’S SINKHOLE ENDURING SONGS OF LUCKENBACH FASCINATING TALES FROM CAMP VERDE PEACEFUL WATERS IN MEDINA

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March 2020 - Volume 5 - Issue 3 Carlina Villalpando Publisher

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MARCH 2020

The Kerrville Daily Times 429 Jefferson St., Kerrville, Texas 78028 www.dailytimes.com | Phone: 830-896-7000 | Fax: 830-896-1150 Copyright: Hill Country Culture is published by The Kerrville Daily Times under Southern Newspapers Inc. No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part by any means, including electronic retrieval systems, without written permission of the publisher. Editorial content does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher of this magazine. Editorial and advertising does not constitute advice but is considered informative.

EDITOR’S LETTER

Spring in The Hill Country

t’s officially almost springtime in the Texas Hill Country and I am sure many of us are counting the days until bluebonnets, sunshine, green hills and mild spring weather are finally here. It is a time to get outdoors and explore the nature that surrounds us and hit the backroads of Texas. In the spring we think of spring and summer break - traveling far and wide and simply through the region. There are adventures for all of us to take. In this issue we take a look at the environment of the Hill Country and those who keep it beautiful, the wonderful trips you can take in the region and so much more. Before we get into what is inside this fresh issue, I would like to share my gratitude to those who helped us for this issue and who help us in every issue. Thank you so much to our wonderful photographer Samuel Beaver. Samuel often takes wonderful photos for The Kerrville Daily Times and for Texas Hill Country Culture — he is a valued part of our team and took this month’s breathtaking cover photo. Thank you Samuel! Thank you also to our amazing contributing writers and those who we interviewed. We are always so grateful to those who let us in their

lives and jobs to share their stories. Thank you all. In this issue you can find our Texas Hill Country Travel guide beginning on page 29. We highlighted some fun and unique spots for those who live here, and who are visiting, to get out and explore: from Medina to Rocksprings to Bandera to Fredericksburg, there’s something for everyone in need of some fresh air and new sights. And on page 22, read what advice Stacy Whittemore has on packing the perfect picnic, and be sure to read page 18 and learn about Dale Bargmann a local nature photographer. Finally, I believe it is important to note that this is my twelfth issue of Texas Hill Country Culture. I have made a whole year’s worth of magazines and I hope that everyone has enjoyed going on this journey with me. If you’re interested in keeping up with the magazine online, check out our Instagram page @txhillcountry_culture and Facebook at Texas Hill Country Culture. Thanks again and happy reading!

— Parastoo Nikravesh

ON THE COVER Photo by Samuel Beaver Samuel Beaver captured this photo just outside of Kerrville last spring on Cypress Creek road, just after a rainstorm. It is a vertical panorama of drone photos. See more of Samuel's photography on Instagram @beavers_photos.

Contents 36

Features 29 CAMP VERDE The historic camel experiment 32 MEDINA Relax by the river and savor sweet treats 34 LUCKENBACH Looking back on a land of musical legends

4â&#x20AC;&#x192;

OLD TUNNEL STATE PARK Far from the city find amazing burgers and bats

DEVIL'S SINKHOLE Look at natural wonders large and small

TEXAS HILL COUNTRY CULTURE

MARCH 2020

Departments 8

EVENT PICKS March activities

20 UNCORKED From nature to lips

GET TO KNOW Local environmentalists

22 SWEET & SAVORY Pack a perfect spring picnic

18 MUSE Nature photographer

Your Home 41

ALEGRIA BARN From far to here

26 WELLNESS Go outside 46

OUT & ABOUT Superball

CONTRIBUTORS

Faces of 3

Hill Country Culture

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TEXAS HILL COUNTRY CULTURE

MARCH 2020

Contributors Kathy Sears Hall - 1

Kathy Sears Hall is a Kerrville native and graduate of Tivy High School. She is a Cooper Institute Personal Trainer and is licensed to teach Pilates and Zumba. She holds an accounting degree from the University of Texas and spent 27 years in the energy industry. She now enjoys being back home and working with her father, husband and staff at The Center for Fitness, a business her mother started over 40 years ago.

Mia Church - 3

Mia Church began her career in media at the Phoenix Newspaper in Boston, Massachusetts. Later, she was part of the team at Boston’s first country music station, WBCS, solidifying country into the northeast culture. She is an internationally published photographer and writer and runs her business, Mia Church Photography. She has two daughters and has lived in the Texas Hill Country for 15 years.

Sandra Lane - 5

Sandra Lane is a fourth-generation Texan who has written for newspapers, trade journals and corporate communications. She has written extensively about real estate and mortgage banking as well as high-tech industries. She has a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of North Texas. A native of the Dallas-Fort Worth area, she moved to Kerrville in 2013.

Samuel Beaver -2

Samuel Beaver is a fifth- generation Kerrville native who has held a camera in his hand for over eight years. With a true passion for creating eye-catching images, he works as a contributing photographer with The Kerrville Daily Times. Additionally, he works as a ranch and real estate photographer with Wingman Imagery out of Fredericksburg. You can find him on Facebook at Beaver’s Photography and on Instagram at beavers_photos. His work can be viewed at www. beaversphotos.com.

Jenna Carpenter - 4

Jenna Carpenter is the communications coordinator for Presbyterian Mo-Ranch Assembly. Before going into public relations, she worked at several newspapers, including The Kerrville Daily Times, The Castroville News Bulletin and The Medina Valley Times, the Garden Island Newspaper, on the island of Kauai, in Hawaii, and The St. Augustine Record, in St. Augustine, Florida. She loves to travel and is planning a trip to Alaska in 2020.

Stacy Whittemore - 6

Stacy Whittemore is a health/cooking coach and certified master preserver in the Texas Hill Country. Her cooking blog, wayfaringspoon.com, is dedicated to smaller-sized recipes along with home canning inspiration. Her passion is teaching and sharing the art of home-cooked meals.

Nancy Foster - 7

Nancy Foster has contributed to Texas Hill Country Culture since its beginning. She believes success is measured when readers tell her they’ve found another place to visit and enjoy. Nancy and her husband, Raymond, have lived in Kerrville for nine years. She heads Foster Tourism Marketing, a company that services clients in four states. She also is a writer for a national inflight magazine.

GO AND DO

Fave 5 Events Enjoy March with these top Hill Country Events

Saturday 7

KPSF Trivia Night

6 - 10 p.m. Saturday, Schreiner Event Center, 2100 Memorial Blvd. Join us for a fun-filled evening. Guests are encouraged to form teams and compete to see who knows the most trivia. Last year, the event sold-out with over 300 attendees. Buy your tickets early by going online at kpsf.net/trivianight — by March 5 — and join in the fun. Questions? Call 830-257-9282.

Saturday 7

Robert Earl Keen/Hill Country Youth Orchestra Annual Fundraiser Concert 8 p.m. Saturday, Cailloux Theater, 910 Main St. Robert Earl Keen will bring his most beloved songs and Hill Country charm to the stage for his 13th annual concert. Back by popular demand will be his very special guests, the highly acclaimed Quebe Sisters and featuring 130 students of the Hill Country Youth Orchestras opening the show. 830-285-9781. www.hcyo.org; www.caillouxtheater.com

Saturday 14

14 KCUW Shamrock Shuffle 5K Run/Walk

8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Louise Hays Park, 202 Thompson Drive. A family-friendly 5K Run/Walk, a Kid’s vs. Leprechaun 1K and St. Patrick’s Day celebration. Proceeds will all go towards Kerr County United Way’s 24 local agencies and Kerr County Childhood Literacy. 830-895-1555. www.athleteguild.com

TEXAS HILL COUNTRY CULTURE

MARCH 2020

Saturday 21 - Sunday 22

Redbud Artisan Market

10 a.m. -5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Sunday, Inn of the Hills Hotel and Conference Center, 1001 Junction Highway. Art and Fine Craft Show with over 50 Texas artisans. Everything at the show is handmade. Woodworking, pottery, jewelry, gourd, glass and metal art, home décor and more.512-660-3328. redbudartisanmarket@gmail.com

Saturday 28

Roaring Lions 2020 Open Car Show

8 a.m. - 2 p.m. Saturday, First Baptist Church, 625 Washington St. This participant judged event will feature everything from antiques, to Corvettes, Jeeps, trucks and everything in between. Enjoy a silent auction, raffle items and a great family-friendly day of activities. Free and open to the public. This car show is a fundraiser for Grace Academy of Kerrville. 830-792-0780. www. graceacademyofkerrville.com

If you visit these events, snap a picture and use the hashtag #CultureAdventures or tag us at @txhillcountry_culture on Instagram so we can share your Texas Hill Country adventures.

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TEXAS HILL COUNTRY CULTURE

MARCH 2020

GET TO KNOW

SUSAN

SANDER Susan Sander, Riverside Nature Center founder. Interview by Parastoo Nikravesh. 1) What do you currently do at the RNC?

What I have been doing for the last couple of years is exhibits. I was just working on one about the dinosaurs and birds — which is a lot of fun. I would come up with the concept and find props and would try and develop programs that would go along with it.

2) What was the purpose of the RNC when you first started? To foster greater awareness of the natural resources of The Hill Country through education, information and by example. It was around ‘87 and ‘89 when we became an organization. We bought the current building in ‘92. There was an old house here that got recycled and in 1993 we planted the trees that are out there. There’s about a hundred different species and our focus is The Hill Country and so these are native plants and they provide good things for the wildlife.

3) Can you tell me what impact you want to leave on the community? Well we live in a really unique part of Texas. We are at a meeting grounds of different plant communities, and we have great diversity. What people often don’t think of is that there is nature in the city. With the river and certainly now with the river trail, they have access to that and it’s really just trying to get people to understand how it is all connected. All the 4th graders from KISD come for an all day field trip, and they’ve been able to get the 2nd graders, and one big component is the river. We also planted all the wildflowers and trees here and because of that we have documented 160 species of birds including pelicans and 90 species of butterflies — and that is all in the city.

4) What do you like best about being out in nature?

It is my happy place. The more I read, study — because I’m an observer and I’m constantly reading about it and being in it — the more I can see the interconnections and it is just pretty awesome. To know that this river goes to the gulf and then becomes a part of the whole big water cycle is pretty cool. If you’re drinking water in Kerrville out of the tap it’s coming from this river. I think we have a real vested interest in knowing about the river and caring about the river and caring for the river. It is literally a lifeblood thing. So having the river trail to me is just awesome.

5) What is something you’ve learned recently about nature that you find interesting?

Probably is that when you look at a hummingbird you’re looking at a dinosaur. Because the things that make a bird a bird started back in the dinosaurs. I think one of the quotes I read was something to the effect that when you look at a bird you’re seeing this evolutionary process of miniaturizing dinosaurs. They just keep getting smaller and smaller. Birds have characteristics like hollow bones and so did dinosaurs and it is really cool.

5) What do you like to do the best at the RNC?

If there are kids here I love to do instruction. My generation can lament the loss of things like a field of wildflowers getting developed — which is a loss to me — and not seeing as many birds as we used to, but for kids today this is their nature. This is where it starts. When we did the Ice Age exhibit we tell them we had mammoths walking around this region and deer. So when they go outside and see a deer they’re looking at an Ice Age animal. There’s a lot of wonder and there’s a lot of things to see, but it’s not always going to be showy. If you know what you’re looking at it’s going to be really cool. And I am so grateful to the community for all they do because it is volunteers that work here and we appreciate them so much.

Photo by Parastoo Nikravesh

GET TO KNOW

TRAVIS LINSCOMB

Travis Linscomb, Upper Guadalupe River Authority natural resource specialist. Interview by Parastoo Nikravesh.

1) Could you explain to me what your roles are at the UGRA and the work the organization sets out to do? Water quality and quantity monitoring, increasing the knowledge of the public on water related issues and investigating water quality concerns.

2) What interested you about this field of work?

Having the opportunity to spend a large amount of time in a beautiful work environment and to continue to build my knowledge of the intricate ecological processes going on in the Texas Hill Country.

3) What long term goals do you have working in the environment field?

Being in my position allows me to do hands-on work towards my long term goal of helping to restore pieces of God’s wonderful creation so that future generations can enjoy the feeling that I feel when in nature. It also affords me the opportunity to pass my knowledge on to others so that they may, in turn, be good stewards of the land and of the water.

4) What do you like best about nature in The Hill Country?

No matter your familiarity with the organisms found here, the likelihood that you will see something that you haven’t seen before is very high, and this is due to the large diversity of species found here.

5) What is something people might not know about the River?

The Guadalupe River is home to a diverse abundance of aquatic invertebrates. Those are organisms like dragonflies, damselflies, mayflies, hellgrammites and water striders. We can tell a great deal about the quality of the water in the river by looking at the aquatic invertebrates that live there so before you say ‘eww gross, I’m never swimming in the river again,’ remember that if they weren’t there, the river wouldn’t be worth swimming in.

6) Is there anything else you’d like to share?

Tara Bushnoe and I have enjoyed working together for over 10 years and being a part of the team at UGRA. We feel blessed to be able to serve our community and help protect the Guadalupe River.

Tara and Travis of the UGRA met us at the River Trail by the Dietert Center the UGRA have been working with local partners to restore the slope adjacent to the river. Their goal is to stabilize the slope by reestablishing native vegetation that will slow down runoff, prevent erosion, and keep pollutants out of the Guadalupe River. The picture is down by the water’s edge in the riparian area of the river. That is the dense band of vegetation along a waterway that helps protect the river and stabilize the bank. The plants the UGRA brought were black willow cuttings and an emory sedge that will be planted in the riparian area as part of this restoration project

GET TO KNOW

TARA BUSHNOE

Tara Bushnoe, Upper Guadalupe River Authority Natural Resources Coordinator. Interview by Parastoo Nikravesh. 1) Could you explain to me what your roles are at the UGRA and the work the organization sets out to do?

UGRA is a conservation and reclamation district established by the Texas Legislature. We are a steward of the upper Guadalupe River in Kerr County and we fulfill that role through our programs to promote conservation, preserve water quality and enhance water quantity. We also participate in state water planning processes, increase the knowledge of the public on water related issues, and advocate for the water resource concerns of Kerr County citizens. Travis Linscomb and I work together to carry out our water quality monitoring programs and our outreach and education programs.

2) What interested you about this field of work? I’ve had a lifelong love of the natural world and I always knew I wanted to have a career that focused on preserving the environment. My position at UGRA combines my interests in the scientific and technical side of the field with opportunities to work with children and adults through our education programs.

3) What long term goals do you have working in the environment field?

I enjoy working with landowners to encourage practices that are good for the health of the land, and therefore the water. I hope to increase that outreach in the future. Since the vast majority of Texas is privately owned, we can all help preserve the environment for future generations through our actions and activities on our own properties.

TEXAS HILL COUNTRY CULTURE

MARCH 2020

4) What do you like best about nature in The Hill Country? I like the extremes we see from year to year. Since we have frequent years of drought, when we do get rain at the right time, nature responds in abundance. For me the spring of 2019 was so astonishing because I saw more plants blooming than I had ever seen before.

5) What is something people might not know about the River?

Flooding plays a crucial role in keeping the river ecosystem healthy. For example, the flooding in October 2018 improved habitat for our state fish, the Guadalupe Bass by flushing out areas covered with silt and vegetation. As a result, many more Guadalupe Bass were born in Kerr County in 2019 suggesting improved opportunities for fishing in the years to come.

6) Is there anything else you’d like to share?

People who work in careers to preserve nature are not just those working outside and getting their hands dirty. One of our primary roles at UGRA is to monitor the health of the river through routine water testing. The UGRA Environmental Laboratory maintains a national certification and is able to analyze all the samples Travis collects from the Guadalupe River in addition to samples for customers providing drinking water or wastewater services. The lab is an incredible asset and without them we would not be able to get results for over 2,300 parameters on the river like we did in 2019.

Photo by Parastoo Nikravesh

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CHANGING HABITUAL BEHAVIORS Habits are learned behaviors which develop over time. Often your conscious mind believes it is under control until one day you try to resist a habitual behavior such as smoking and realize that you cannot help but do it. During hypnosis we can communicate directly with your subconscious mind to make a change in these behaviors. The little voice which is usually saying “do it, just a little won’t hurt” quiets down. Through hypnosis, you can begin to use the same strength of mind that has kept you doing something, to keep you FROM doing it. A habit can never be stronger than the mind that created it, so as we work together you develop the ability to change your behavior. Visit our Web site and see the many habits that can be changed through hypnosis.

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It’s for the Birds NATURE PHOTOGRAPHER SHARES HIS TALENT

Photos by Dale Bargmann

Story by Nancy Foster

ale Bargmann is passionate about birds, and he likes nothing better than to photograph them in their natural state. To date he has photographed 271 species, over half the 420 species that live here in the Edwards Plateau region, as documented by Texas Parks & Wildlife. We met up with this talented Kerrville resident at the Riverside Nature Center, one of his favorite spots for photographing birds. His intrigue with the camera began at an early age. “My interest in photography started while observing my father take photos on family vacations across the U.S.,” Dale said. Over the years, he honed his skills and is now well known and respected for his captivating photographs.

TEXAS HILL COUNTRY CULTURE

MARCH 2020

MUSE

Bird Photography: Rewarding, but Not Easy Dale prefers to photograph birds. He prefers to shoot in the early morning and evening light and uses a Canon DSLR with either a 500 or 600 mm lens. “I love the idea of trying to track down something elusive. You never know what you’re going to get from one day to the next, one hour to the next, or even one minute to the next.” Patience is a crucial component of being a good bird photographer, he explained. “Sometimes you hear the bird before you see it,” Dale said. “You try to track it down, perhaps seeing a branch move slightly, giving you a momentary glimpse. Some species jump around very quickly as they search for food, while others will land right in front of you, stay a few seconds and then move on. Ultimately, you have to wait and wait for something to appear and be ready to hit the shutter when it does.” Kerr County has so many great bird spotting sites, and the flocks increase when migration starts, usually in April and then again in the fall, from late July through November. Dale cites both Flat Rock Park and Riverside Nature Center as being designated Hill Country Birding Hotspots and adds that most anywhere along the Guadalupe is prime to view and photo birds. One of his most exciting shots was of a great egret with a snake in its mouth, taken on the banks of the Guadalupe. He also was thrilled to capture photos of the rare white Leucistic Black-chinned Hummingbird at the Coming of the Kings Foundation last August. A lesser-known area but still great to view birds is just off Arcadia Loop on Bear Creek Road, Freedom Trail and Indian Creek Road. Dale chose this area for the annual Texas Christmas Bird Count that yielded viewings of

53 birds in 2017, 43 in 2018 and 25 in 2019. Exhibiting His Work Dale is one of several bird photographers currently exhibiting at Riverside Nature Center’s “Alfred Woodcock Presents the Return of the Birds”. His panel of photographs showcases a beautiful green kingfisher, pied-billed grebe, great blue heron, and other native species. The public can learn more about Dale and his avian subjects by attending his Nature Education Talk, “Look Who’s Hanging Out at the Birding Hotspots” at the Center on April 28 at 10:30 a.m. Find details at riversidenaturecenter.org. An active member of the Hill Country Camera Club for over 20 years, Dale is currently serving a third term as president of the club. The group meets on the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at “The Barn” at Hosanna Lutheran Church, 134 Camp Meeting Road, Kerrville and those interested in photography at any level are welcome to attend. Although he does not have a website or gallery, Dale does sell his beautiful photographs, and he will be a participant in the club’s PhotoQuest annual juried exhibition at the Kerr Arts and Cultural Center during its run from Aug. 15 – Sept. 12. If you’d like to meet and talk with this avid birder, a great place to meet him is to join one of the monthly Riverside Nature Center bird walks, held the third Saturday of each month from 8 – 9:30 a.m. See locations and details at www. riversidenaturecenter.org. We finished our interview with Dale at the Center’s bird watching blind, where he positioned himself on a well-worn plastic chair. Poised with a direct view of a bird feeder well stocked with sunflower seeds, he scrutinized a pair of energetic Lesser Goldfinches eagerly munching breakfast. Resting his Canon on the handle of his cane, he patiently awaited that perfect moment to snap the shutter. 19

BACK TO THE ROOTS

UNCORKED

WHAT MAKES OUR FAVORITE DRINKS?

BEER

What is it made from? Beer is made from barley, water, hops and yeast. How long does it take to make? Beer needs to ferment for about two weeks or longer depending on the beer being made. Where did it originates? Mesopotamia Where is it the most consumed? Czech Republic Fun fact: The world’s longest hangover lasted 4 weeks after a Scotsman consumed 60 pints of beer.

WHISKEY

What is it made from? Whiskey is made from fermented grain mash. Various grains are used for different varieties, including barley, corn, rye and wheat.

By Parastoo Nikravesh

How long does it take to make? The legal minimum when aging whiskey is 3 years.

TEXAS HILL COUNTRY CULTURE

Where did it originates? Scotland Where is it the most consumed? India Fun fact: During the aging process, a percentage of the alcohol evaporates. This evaporated alcohol is called the “angels’ share.”

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WINE

What is it made from? The process for making wine is simply to pick the grapes, crush the grapes, ferment the grapes, let the wine age and then bottle it up. Red wine is made from the pulp of red or black grapes fermented with the skins to give the wine color. White wine is fermented without the grapes’ skin. How long does it take to make? It takes about six months for many white wines and almost all red wines to be done. Although the aging process is famously important for good wine. Where did it originates? The earliest evidence of wine fermentation was found in China. Where is it the most consumed? United States Fun fact: Red wine grapes can be made into white wine.

TEQUILA

What is it made from? Tequila is made from blue agave. The center of the agave leaves is a pit called the “piña,” or pineapple in English, and tequila comes from heating and crushing that pit. How long does it take to make? It takes around eight to 20 years to make tequila because the agave plant needs around eight to 10 years to harvest. Where did it originates? Tequila, Mexico Where is it the most consumed? Although the U.S. consumes more of it, tequila is a popular drink in Mexico. Fun fact: Tequila is technically mezcal, but not all mezcals are tequila. That’s because any spirit distilled from the agave plant is considered mezcal, but tequila can only come from the blue agave variety.

PACK YOUR PERFECT PICKS

It’s Picnic Time Story by Stacy Whittemore

othing says let’s pack a picnic and get on the road, like the first bloom of bluebonnets in the Texas Hill Country. Getting out in the sun with friends and family with a basket of delicious food on a pretty blanket is the perfect way to kick off the season. Before you go here are some tips to keep your food safe and recipes that detour from the traditional fried chicken and potato salad fare. Buffalo chicken wraps are quick to make and simple to wrap and pack for your picnic. Key lime pie in a jar will impress everyone, plus they can be frozen ahead of time.

Picnic food safety: Keep things cold. Freeze water bottles to use as ice blocks in your cooler. You have a cold drink when you get to your destination and it keeps your food safe. Freezer pops work well in a cooler or frozen tubes of yogurt, which make great snacks along the way. Freeze a flat pack of wet-wipes in a Ziplock bag. They act as another cold block and you get a refreshing hand wipe when you need it. Slightly wet a small sponge and place in a Ziplock bag, then freeze. These work great for placing on the side of dishes to ensure they stay cold. Don’t use loose ice in a cooler for drinks. Food and contaminants can get into the ice. Pack ice for drinks in separate bags. Put sunscreen in a bag and place it in the cooler. It feels great putting it on cool when in the sun. Don’t put your cooler in the trunk of the

car. The trunk on a hot day can get over 140 degrees.

Pack and seal food items: Nothing puts a damper on a great picnic than soggy food. Use containers that stack easily and if needed, place cellophane wrap over the container then place the lid on. Placing frozen sponges between the containers helps keep a layer of cold between each container. Be sure and put food back in the cooler as soon as possible to keep it within safe food temperatures limits.

Picnic Wines: The word picnic comes from the French word term “pique-nique”, which was used in the mid-1600s to describe gourmands who brought their own wine when dining out. Every great picnic deserves a great bottle to take along to enjoy. White wines: A crisp chilled white goes well with most picnic foods. Try Sauvignon Blanc which is dry and crisp, but not too heavy. Pinot Grigio is my favorite go-to. They are loaded with citrus fruit tones but won’t overpower what you are serving. Moscato d’Asti is another great choice with fruit flavors and a slight fizz. It pairs well with fruits and salads. Red wines tend to be heavy plus more alcohol content so go with a rose or blush wine. They can be chilled like white wines and compliment chicken, cheese and crackers or dips. Wines are also excellent when frozen with fruit. Place 4 cups of wine with 1 cup of desired fruit (strawberries are excellent as well as raspberries) in a blender and mix well. Pour into 8 oz. containers and place lids on, freeze. Nothing beats a slushie on a hot day.

SWEET & SAVORY

SWEET & SAVORY Recipes and Photo by Stacy Whittemore

24â&#x20AC;&#x192;

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Buffalo Chicken Wraps

These Buffalo chicken wraps are perfect for picnic goers tired of the standard turkey or peanut butter and jelly sandwich. These tasty wraps come out to 8 servings and it will be a filling and easy-to-make meal. Ingredients: •

1 cup finely shredded cooked chicken

•

2 green onions, sliced thin

•

8 oz softened cream cheese

•

4 6-inch flour tortillas

•

1/4 cup Whataburger Buffalo sauce. For more heat

•

1 14 oz. package coleslaw prepared and mixed.

increase to ½ cup.

•

4 thinly sliced provolone cheese

Directions: Add softened cream cheese, hot sauce, green onions, and shredded chicken to a bowl. Mix to combine. Spread the filling evenly on four tortillas. Spread about 1/2 cup coleslaw over the filling. Top with a thin slice of cheese. Note: Place cheese in the center, it does not need to cover the entire tortilla. Roll the tortillas up jelly-roll style. Wrap in plastic wrap and store in the fridge for 30 minutes. Cut in half and wrap individually.

No-bake Key Lime Cheesecake in a Jar

This recipe is super easy to whip up and makes around 8 servings. The recipe can also be halved. You can put these in plastic containers or 8 oz mason jars. This dessert can be frozen and then packed in a cooler when ready to go. By freezing ahead of time, you can top the whipped topping when preparing and it will be good by the time you get to your picnic. Ingredients: •

2 cups graham cracker crumbs

•

2 tbsp butter

•

2 8 oz. packages of cream cheese (softened)

•

1 14 oz. can condensed milk

•

1-3 oz. package lime jello (not prepared, using only the mix)

•

Whipped topping – the amount will depend on your jars, about a cup.

Directions: For the graham cracker crumbs with the butter in a medium bowl set it aside. For the pie filling: Combine cream cheese, condensed milk, package of jello (just the mix) in a stand mixer and mix on medium speed for about five minutes. If you don’t have a stand mixer, whip vigorously with a whisk until you have a smooth, creamy texture. If you find your filling isn’t as green as you like add in a drop or two of green gel coloring. Once mixed, place in the fridge for about 10 minutes while you get your jars ready. Now pour about 1/3 cup of crushed graham crackers into the bottom of your jar and lightly pack them down. You don’t want it to be too hard, so make sure it is just enough to stay in place. Then pour the filling and top with whipped cream. 25

WELLNESS

hy go outdoors? Because 87% of an average American’s day is spent in buildings and 6% in cars, leaving just 7% for outdoor time, and that includes walking to stores. It’s easy to let our technology-habits keep us inside, whether we’re working, retired or going to school. Computers, TVs and electronic devices lure us to stay indoors. It’s no secret that our sedentary lifestyle is leading to record growth in obesity and diabetes across all age groups. Avoiding Mother Earth to this extreme, however, comes at a high price, affecting the circadian rhythms that regulate sleep, appetite, mood and energy levels. What can be done about this Nature-Deficit? Consider taking your fitness routine outside. The days are getting longer, the pollen is subsiding, bluebonnet leaves are sprouting and the temperature is warming up. Springtime is the perfect season to change your habits. Shed your sweater and let’s celebrate the end of this year’s overactive cold and flu season by exercising in the fresh air and sunshine.

Why should I go outside? Being active in nature has some significant benefits compared to similar indoor options. Walking or running on uneven terrain requires more body control and activates more joints and muscles than working out on a flat surface indoors. You’ll tend to cover more distance since you have to return to a starting point, whereas it’s tempting to hit the Stop Button when you’re on a Treadmill. Stress, anxiety and frustration from daily challenges can disappear when you focus on the positive energy of our area’s natural wonders. Research has shown that moving outdoors reduces depression and improves mood, most likely due to the vitamin D production we get from the sun. We tend to feel refreshed and clearer headed. It can also bring back childhood memories, reminding us of spending time on a playground.

Where can I go? Not all outdoor spaces are suitable for exercise. Always consider

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GET SOME FRESH AIR

Get Outside By Kathy Sears Hall, Photo by Samuel Beaver

traffic patterns, weather conditions and safety before heading outdoors. We are blessed to have access to a variety of possible options in the Hill Country: Hiking Destinations: Enchanted Rock and Lost Maples State Natural Area Swimming Holes: Schumacher’s Crossing, local Municipal Pools Walking Options: Kerr v ille’s R iver Trail, neighborhood parks Community Events: 5Ks, Mountain Bike Festivals

How should I dress? Check the weather. If it’s cold, wear a hat and dress in layers so that your body temperature will remain safe, but you still have the option of taking off your jacket if you get overheated. Bring plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Always wear

sunscreen to protect your skin from sun damage. Keep your cell phone handy, especially if you are working out by yourself - and tell a friend or loved one where you are going and when you plan to return in case you find yourself stranded or in need of help along the journey.

How do I get started? The sky’s the limit when it comes to outdoor activities. Walking and running easily come to mind, but consider biking, swimming, gardening, fishing, hiking, kayaking and horseback riding, or grab your friends for a tennis, pickleball, soccer or softball game. Don’t let the idea of an outdoor activity scare you. If you’re new to exercise or just getting back into it, start with short sessions of light intensity movements. Even a few minutes will pay off. Whether it’s completing a circuit workout at your local park, mountain biking through nearby trails, or walking your kids to the bus, any physical activity counts. Why not start today? Let’s get out there.

27 25

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HITCH A RIDE THROUGH

CAMP VERDE By Sandra Lane

Camp Verde General Store, Post Office, and restaurant is located just 15 miles south of Kerrville on Highway 173. For more than 150 years, Camp Verde General Store has been in existence on the banks of Verde Creek. In 1855, U.S. Secretary of War Jefferson Davis ordered the U.S. Army to begin a trial experiment with camels. The Camp became headquarters for the U.S. Camel Corps situated on the road between San Antonio and El Paso. The purpose was to use dromedaries as pack animals in the harsh terrain of the southwestern U.S.

Contributed photos

In 1865, when Union troops recaptured Camp Verde, they found about 66 camels. Re-enactments in the modernday Camp Verde often feature the rugged creatures.

MODERN OFFERINGS The present-day Camp Verde General Store, Post Office, and restaurant is a far cry from what existed there in times past. Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s buildings across the road from Verde Creek are constructed of the white stone so prevalent in the Hill Country. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very 21st Century, but still retains a hint of the past. The Camp Verde Restaurant is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day for breakfast and lunch. The gift shop and Post Office are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 29

A TOWN WITH A UNIQUE MILITARY HISTORY Camp Verde’s camels arrived in 1856 and 1857, and were used with some success in extended trips in the Southwest. However, the camels did not get along with the Army’s horses and mules, which would bolt out of fear when they smelled a camel. The soldiers didn’t like the camels, either, because they were difficult to handle and smelled bad. The Camp Verde General Store

opened in 1857 and served the soldiers of the camp. It was usually only open for a few days immediately following payday. The post office opened in 1887, long after the war. In February of 1861, the camp was captured by Confederate forces. They used the camels and a few Egyptian handlers to haul cotton to Mexico to trade to the British for much needed supplies.

When Union troops recaptured Camp Verde in 1865, they found about 66 camels. After the fort was deactivated in 1869, the experiment died with it. Thereafter, a company of Texas Rangers used the remains of the fort as a campground. The site of the original Camp Verde is located a few miles down the road from the current Camp Verde General Store, Post Office, and restaurant.

ALTARS & ARTISTS After visiting Camp Verde, travel another 10 miles on 173 to the town of Bandera to find the Frontier Museum and one of the storied Painted Churches of Texas. St. Stanislaus Catholic church, the second oldest Polish church in the U.S., was established by Polish immigrants in 1855. In an effort to make their new churches feel more like the ancient Gothic structures of their homelands, early settlers from Poland, Czechoslovakia, and other European countries painted the walls, altars, and arches of their wooden sanctuaries in colorful patterns and tromp l’oeil images. This is an art technique that uses realistic imagery to create the optical illusion that the depicted objects exist in three dimensions. These buildings came to be known

In nearby Bandera, you’ll find St. Stanislaus Catholic church, the second oldest Polish church in the U.S. The stunning artwork echoes Gothic designs from 19th century Europe.

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GET A GLIMPSE OF TIMES GONE BY While youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in Bandera, be sure to stop at the Frontier Times Museum, 13th Street at Pecan Street. This is a small, quaint museum stuffed with all kinds of artifacts from earlier times. It is also said to be one of the most interesting museums in the state since it began so early, in the 1920s, when historical items were abundant. There are more than 30,000 items on display. It is even rumored that there is a

as the Painted Churches of Texas. There are approximately 20 in Central Texas. The paintings in St. Stanislaus Catholic Church are a prime example of this difficult technique. The church is located at 602 7th St. During Lent, observed from Wednesday, Feb. 26 through Thursday, April 9, masses will be held every day except Monday. The church will be open for worshippers and also visitors to view the paintings in the sanctuary. On each Friday during Lent at 5 p.m., a fish fry will be held and visitors are invited.

pillow on display stuffed with camel hair obtained from the camels at Camp Verde back in the 1800s. There are some exciting events coming up at the Museum. On Saturday, March 7, the Museum is having its annual Arts & Crafts Festival. On Friday, March 13, the Museum will host its annual Spring Cleaning Market. This will offer for sale items such as antiques, collectives, and attic treasures, among other items.

On the fourth Sunday afternoon of each month from 1 to 4 p.m. there is a Jamboree open to all musicians, particularly those who sing and play western and old time music. Listeners are invited, also. There is no admission fee for this event. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Admission is $6 for adults, $4 for seniors, $2 for children 6-17, and children under 6 are admitted free.

Shops full of historic and handmade goodies abound in both Bandera and the Camp Verde area. Make sure to pick up a souvenir before you return home!

Natural

RELAXATION

Medina River's calm waters provide ideal getaway for travelers By Mia Church Sometimes the finest places are not the big, the crowded or tourist-filled. Sometimes the most beauty is found in the quiet, where you can hear yourself think, away from the city lights and commotion. Although there is fun in exploring the cosmopolitan, a pristine respite is a quintessential luxury. Medina is located between Kerrville and Bandera, near the headwaters of the Medina River which flows past Bandera and into Medina Lake in Medina County. When driving from Kerrville on Highway 16 you will traverse through the lovely Hill-Countryside on a winding climb, and then descend into the Medina River Valley. As bikers often say, Medina is where “The Ride Begins” referring to the “3 Sisters,” a highly advertised scenic drive. It is one of the top motorcycle rides in the USA. Motorcyclists and driving enthusiasts alike, delight in this passage for its stunning vistas and twisting, turning route. Directly across from the start of this drive is The Old Timer General Store. As the sole location for gas in Medina, and with everything a convenience/grocery store offers and more, it’s a well suited meeting spot. The Old Timer offers farm fresh eggs, homemade pizza, gourmet hotdogs,

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even steak with plenty of room to sit and stretch your legs. For those looking for cool relaxation, the Medina River is as central to Medina's appeal as anything else. The water is sparkling and clear. You can watch the fish swimming and marvel at the intricate root structure of the Cypress trees lining the banks. These sizable trees create an impressive green canopy that gives shade to the emerald river. Sitting in the Medina on a hot summer day can’t be beat. Feeling the cool clear water and looking up at the trees and sky is truly magical. Additionally, Medina is well known for its apples. Love Creek Orchards and The Apple Store have upwards of 10 varieties of apples, including, Jonagold, Fuji, Pink Lady, Gala and Granny Smith. They produce more than 50 products from the orchard apples, including award winning apple pies, apple butters, breads, jellies, apple cider vinegar, apple turnovers, cookies, sandwiches and even apple ice cream, which is almost indescribably delicious.

In October, they open their “Great Hill Country Pumpkin Patch.” This festival is fun for the whole family, with lots of activities for children. You can pick your own pumpkin, enjoy a hayride, even a petting zoo where the kids can groom the ponies and hold the chicks. For craft and sewing enthusiasts, The Little Cottage Quilt Shop is chockfull of all needs and notions. It is located in a charming 1920s bungalow on the Main Street through Medina.

For campers, The Hill Country RV Resort and Event Center is an ideal place to stay and enjoy the town and river. They offer a wide range of amenities, RV spots, cabins, a pool, river access, many games, even horse pens. The center also hosts events, such as church events, biker rallies, equestrian groups and, of course, charming Hill Country weddings. Photos courtesy of Richard Vasquez

Hear the magic of Luckenbach and the origins of country classics

TUNE IN TO MUSIC

LEGENDS

Contr

ibuted

photo

By Jenna Carpenter

If you’re a country music fan, the name Luckenback may sound familiar — Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson released a song in 1977 about how time in Luckenbach melts their cares away.

“There was a time Willie would play dominoes and just hang out,” said Virgil Holdman, store manager for Luckenbach. “In the 1990s, his 4th of July picnics brought thousands here. But you could see anybody on any day here. There is a magic here that makes them come.” Located 13 miles from Fredericksburg, Luckenbach is part dance hall, part general store, part saloon — and is all parts western charm. There, everybody is somebody. “We’re family friendly and laid-back,” he said. “It’s a Texas state of mind and a real step back in time.” Luckenbach has a history spanning almost 200 years. It was established in 1849 as a trading post. Almost 40 years later, a man by

TEXAS HILL COUNTRY CULTURE

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the name of August Engel opened a post office, general store and beer joint on the piece of land. His sister, Minna, named the area Luckenbach, after her fiancé, Carl’s family. Carl Luckenbach’s father, Jacob Luckenbach, was one of the first German settlers to arrive in Fredericksburg. He soon moved out of town to what is now known as Luckenbach. Years later, when August and Minna Engel filled out paperwork for the post office, Minna chose the name Luckenbach, and it stuck. The area soon flourished as a tiny, unincorporated town and expanded to include a school, blacksmith shop and dance hall. In the 1970s, Hondo Crouch, Gulch

Knock and Kathy Morgan purchased the property. “Hondo was a true Texas character known for humor and practical jokes, a writer and rancher,” Holdman said. “His wife’s family were settlers here in the area as were the Engels that had settled Luckenbach. He said he bought Luckenbach because Dallas wasn’t for sale.” The area soon became famous for the Luckenbach world fair, a ladies state chili bust, the mud dauber festival and daily games of dominoes and jam sessions — all of which still are on the calendar today. “The ’70s outlaw country music movement came right through here so to speak,” Holdman said. “Jerry Jeff

Walkers’ hit album, ‘Viva Terlingua,’ was recorded here and went gold. It had songs on it written by some of the best of the time. Everyone who heard it came here to see the place and hear the music.” Now, there is live music everyday — from hosted jam sessions to large concerts, Holdman said. “We have one the oldest dance halls in the state and a great dance floor so we have a lot of dancing,” he said. Luckenbach is located at 412 Luckenbach Town Loop. It’s open seven days a week — Sunday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m., Friday from 9 a.m. to midnight and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 a.m.

Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park

If you’re looking for a relaxing picnic in the Texas Hill Country, look no further than Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park. Found just three miles south of downtown Fredericksburg on Highway 16, the park boasts 150 acres and a bubbling creek lined with live oaks. It’s named after Claudia Alta “Lady Bird” Johnson, wife of Lyndon B. Johnson, who was president of the US from 1963 to 1969. Known for her love of nature and being outdoors, Lady Bird Johnson attended the dedication of the municipal park in 1969, said Andrea Schmidt, director of the Fredericksburg Parks

and Recreation Department. “Her leadership and love of nature helped transform the Hill Country and LBJ Park and encouraged others with her love for wildflowers,” Schmidt said. If you use the park as a pitstop along your road trip, Schmidt has a list of places you should hit during the time you are here. “The nature trail and bird blind, Live Oak Creek, the pollinator garden, and park pool (during the summer) are must see areas of the park,” she said. “The park can be enjoyed in the spring when we have wildflowers blooming and the weather is not too hot,” she said. “During the summer months, park pool is open and while it may be hot, visitors can cool off with a swim.” Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park is located at 432 Lady Bird Drive in Fredericksburg.

Hill Top Café

Owned by Johnny Nicholas, a Grammy award winning blues artist, Hill Top Café is one of those places that

is in the middle of nowhere, but it’s an experience you won’t want to miss. The restaurant serves up healthy doses of salsa and juevos rancheros, oysters bruton, gumbo and homemade pies and cakes — with a Greek flair. Starting at 11 a.m., Nicholas himself leads a gospel brunch. It’s open Tuesday-Thursday for lunch from 11 a.m to 2 p.m. and dinner from 5 to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for lunch and dinner from 5 to 10 p.m. On Sunday, brunch is served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and dinner goes from 5 to 9 p.m. Hill Top Café is at 10661 N. US Highway 87.

Wonders SECLUDED

Story by Jenna Carpenter, photos by Parastoo Nikravesh ocated on Old San Antonio Road, several miles off Interstate 10 is Old Tunnel State Park. It’s aptly named, as it used to be a railroad tunnel of the Fredericksburg and Northern Railway. Railroad operations stopped in 1942, and the property came under the purview of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in 2012. It now functions as a state park and the tunnel itself is home to three million Mexican freetailed bats. For Nyta Brown, superintendent of Old Tunnel State Park, that is what makes the park special. “It is the smallest official state park in Texas, but has the largest population of any mammal in one place,” Brown is the only person who staffs the park, so she is responsible for all operations, interpretation and maintenance. “I couldn’t do my job without all the wonderful volunteers that

TEXAS HILL COUNTRY CULTURE

assist me at the park,” she said. People can watch the bat emergence from May to October, and the best time of year to see them is August and September, Brown said. “They usually emerge earlier and there are more of them,” she said. There are two ways to view the bats. One is from an upper viewing area, which is open to the general public. The lower viewing area is open Thursday through Sunday for nightly tours. Here, guests get an up-close view of the emergence, and have the opportunity to hear the flap of their wings as they go out into the night. It’s an experience that never gets old, Brown said. The way to ensure you see the bats is to do your research, Brown said. “The best tip I can offer is to know that bats do not follow a schedule,” she said. “Emergence times can vary nightly.”

MARCH 2020

Contributed photo by Samuel Beaver

She suggests calling the bat information line at 866-978-2287 or checking the official Old Tunnel Facebook page to get the most accurate bat time information. The park is open year-round. Guests are welcome to hike the half-mile trail, which opens at sunrise and closes at 5 p.m. Last year, 75,000 people visited Old Tunnel State Park, Brown said. Old Tunnel State Park is located at 10619 Old San Antonio Road in Fredericksburg.

Alamo Springs Cafe

After you walk the trails and see the bats at Old Tunnel State Park, eat up at Alamo Springs Cafe. Open since 2006 it is right next door to Old Tunnel State Park and serves as a fuel station of sorts for visitors to the park. Wednesday through Sunday, Alamo Springs Cafe dishes out half-pound burgers, chicken sandwiches, fried pickles french fries, onion rings and desserts like chocolate cake and a variety of pies. The cafe is famous for their burgers and has become a destination for burger connoisseurs, who make the trip just to get their hands on the hamburgers. “We get a mix of people — some of our guests are people who have lived on this hill for 20 to 30 years. And we get people who come to try out our cover burger,” said Brian O’Neil, owner. The cover burger was a burger that was featured on the cover of Texas Monthly in 2009. That edition featured the 50 best burgers in the state. That burger, which is a fan favorite, is topped with the basics like lettuce, cheese and tomato, but also contains grilled onions, avocado, and green chiles — all on a jalapeño cheese bun. “It’s a combination that people

had put together and it was already popular,” O’Neil said. “It’s also pretty photogenic.” Each burger comes with a choice of cheese,mustard, mayo, lettuce, tomato, onion and pickle. Add-ons include chili, avocado, bacon and mushrooms. And while the burger is massive — each weighing half a pound — you don’t feel weighed down after eating it. “It’s all about the right blend of beef, so it’s not super greasy,” O’Neil said. O’Neil, restaurateur from Austin who has managed places like Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden, Uchi, Max’s Wine Dive, and Gus’s Fried Chicken, bought Alamo Springs Cafe about a year ago. “I’ve been coming out here for years, and I thought it was a cool place,” he said. The menu he inherited from the previous owner hasn’t changed. “I don’t mess with success,” he said. Alamo Springs Cafe is also home to the Jefe’s Challenge — where brave souls take on a massive creation of six beef patties, six slices of cheese and a large order of fries. If you eat it in under 30 minutes and stay at the table for another 15 minutes, you get the meal for free. You also get a free T-shirt and will be featured on the “Glutton’s Wall of Fame.” If you lose, you pay $38. There’s a new contender about five times a week. But only one person every three weeks is successful, O’Neil said. Other hot-ticket menu items include the catfish, portobello mushroom sandwich and fried shrimp platter. With Old Tunnel State Park nearby, the restaurant tends to get busy around 7 p.m., which is when the bats that live in the tunnel wake up for the night, O’Neil said. So he suggests to plan accordingly, and stop for dinner

around 6 p.m. or 8 p.m. Alamo Springs Cafe is located on 107 Alamo Road in Fredericksburg. It’s open Wednesday through Sunday. On Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday, it closes at 8 p.m. On Friday and Saturday, it closes at 9 p.m.

Wildseed Farms

When you think of the Texas Hill Country, fields filled with wildflowers like bluebonnets and Indian paint brushes may come to mind. Every spring, these flowers pop up along the interstate, highways and country roads. It’s a beautiful sight unique to Texas. But you don’t have to stop along a busy road to experience the vibrant hues of lilac and orange. Wildseed Farms, located a little ways out of Fredericksburg, is home to 200 acres of wildflower fields. The flowers that pop up along those fields vary with the season, but depending on when you visit you can expect to see gloriosa daisies, cosmos, red corn poppies, bluebonnets, rocket larkspurs and sunflowers. Here, people are welcome to walk the trails, take photos, enjoy the outdoors and stop and smell the flowers. There is also a nursery, where visitors can buy wildflower seeds and other native Texas plants. In addition, there is a biergarten that serves up cold beer, snacks, jams, jellies and salsas. Make sure to try their peach ice cream, which is made from peaches grown in the Stonewall area. Wildseed Farms is also home to a 20-acre vineyard, which opened in 2015. Varietals include albarino, tempranillo, mourvedre and vermentino. Wildseed Farms, 100 Legacy Drive, is open seven days a week from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

BELOW THE

SURFACE

More than meets the eye at Devil’s Sinkhole, Texas Miniature exhibit By Ariel Lutnesky

It was when Ammon Billings was out chasing his hogs that he discovered the Devil’s Sinkhole in 1876, said Andrew Barnebey. “He had no idea it was there and he was very impressed,” said Barnebey, the president of the Devil’s Sinkhole Society that oversees the Devil’s Sinkhole State Natural Area. “He found his wife and said, ‘I’ve seen the gateway to hell.’ She said, ‘You can’t call it that. Let’s call it the Devil’s Sinkhole.’” The Devil’s Sinkhole is Texas’ fourth largest Mexican free-tailed bat colony, which can amount to 3 million bats on warm nights, according to Texas Parks and Wildlife. This makes bats one of the area’s main attractions. “They rise every evening around dusk in a tornado and then drive across the sky in this huge river,” Barnebey said. “It is just jaw-dropping to see this.” Millions of years ago, the area was covered in water, Barnebey said. Receding water caused a cave to be carved into the limestone. Erosion caused the roof to fall in. The entrance is about 65 feet wide and the cavern is at least 350 feet deep. At the widest point, it could fit more than three football fields, according to TPW. Next year marks the 50th anniversary of the area becoming a National Natural Landmark. Texas purchased

TEXAS HILL COUNTRY CULTURE

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it in 1985 from Clarence Whitworth; before then, the property was a ranch, Barnebey said. He added that prior to being a ranch, part of the property was a campsite for Native American people, including the Lipan Apache and Comanche peoples. Besides watching bats, activities include nature walks, bird tours and motorcycle rides.

Visitors are only allowed to access the property by guided tour because it is home to four different endangered species, including one that is found nowhere else â&#x20AC;&#x201D; the Devilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Sinkhole amphipod. To make a reservation for a guided tour or for more information, call 830-683-2287. Other areas to visit around Rocksprings include:

Texas Miniature Museum Dollhouses and tiny furniture from 1900 through 2000 are on display at the Texas Miniature Museum, right across the street from the Historic Rocksprings Hotel. Every decade is represented. While entrance is free, it is only available by appointment with

Debra Wolcott by calling 713-515-2780.

Mitchell Arrowhead Museum

Weapons and tools from thousands of years ago are on display inside the Rocksprings Home & Supply store, 301 W. Main St. Some say the Mitchell arrowhead collection has Smithsonian-quality points. See the collection for free.

Contributed photos by Debra Wol cott

Scenes inside th e Texas Miniature Museum range from mouthwaterin g banquet spread s and cozy bedroo ms to more elabor ate holiday displays . Visitors are wel com to explore for fre e e but must make an appointment fir st.

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Photo Courtesy of Leah Thomason Photography

YOUR HOME

Alegria Barn

By Parastoo Nikravesh

estled next to Wolf Creek and surrounded by a picturesque dry stack stone rock fence is Alegria Barn. Upon entering, an unmistakable smell of old pine greets you and the high ceilings and wooden beams catch your attention. The building has rustic charm and elegance, but it is more than a standard Texas Hill Country barn — it is a piece of living history. Alegria is an antique barn that is over 200 years old and originally built in Exeter, New Hampshire — a city known as one of the capitals of the American Revolution. Alegria Barn, a property owned by the James Avery family, was originally a gift. “Alegria — which is known to mean joy, hope, happiness — was a personal

A piece of living history in The Hill Country

project of Mr. Avery’s for a very long time. He actually purchased Alegria as a gift for his wife Estela Avery,” said Summer West, director of sales and marketing for Alegria. Because of Estela Avery’s commitment to local nonprofits, James Avery wanted to give her a place to donate or make available for the community for nonprofit or private events and for Avery family functions. After searching for the perfect place, Avery eventually found Alegria in New England and brought it back to The Hill Country and finished rebuilding it in 2003. “Something we pride ourselves on about Alegria is that it was artisan designed with an event in mind. For Mr.

Avery, the events he had in mind were the events he and Estela would host for the community and privately.” Located between Kerrville and Fredericksburg at 15475 S. State Highway 16, Fredericksburg, Alegria has specially crafted artisan features, but at the heart of the building is the history. “There’s a lot of unique and historical components and it was very important to Mr. and Mrs. Avery that the original, historical architecture was intact once they got this project going,” West said. The building was originally a working dairy barn and the elements of those days are still apparent. There are 600 lbs poles made of New England pine that divide parts of the room that would represent where the dairy stalls would

YOUR HOME

❝

Something we pride ourselves on about Alegria is that it was artisan designed with an event in mind.

have stood and the second floor was the hay loft where they could open and close the windows to maintain the humidity of the building. Additionally, there are several square nails and around 300 wooden peg poles that held the building together. All original features. “The beams at the top are part of the original structure,” West said. “The top of the building is curved because back in the day when ship builders were not building ships they had to have something else to do, so they would help to build these barns. Those days, barns were prefabbed — because it takes longer than a day to cut a tree and prepare it for building — so if you look closely you can see if we put a large ship up there, upside down, you could tell that was the bow of a ship.” Another historical element is the unique, pleasant smell. “There is a smell in here and that is a natural wood smell and we don’t do anything to it. That is the smell that the wood produces,” West said. The newer features are all created by local artisans such as the fence, working fireplace and chairs and tables.

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MARCH 2020

Today, Alegria hosts guests from all around the region for weddings, business meetings, nonprofit events and more. The barn can hold around 250 people for a seated dinner and up to 1,500 people with added tents and other rentals. “The public has been very gracious and super excited to get in here. The goal is to have it open to the public for them to utilize this space as an area to meet, make business meetings happen and host events,” West said. Before entering the property, visitors can see a sign displaying the Alegria name, that was originally designed by James Avery himself. “The sign out front that welcomes our guests as they come in that says ‘Alegria,’ I would consider a private design of Mr. Avery’s,” West said. “He passed away almost two years ago and after that they were going through the kitchen and in one of the cookbooks appeared a hand-drawn ‘Alegria,’ so we took it and had it cut out of metal and powder-coated and that is his handwriting and his design. He was a true artisan, so he drew on everything”

Photos Courtesy of Leah Thomason Photography

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OUT & ABOUT

Superball Event benefiting the Kerrville Rotary Club on Feb. 1 Photos by Louis Amestoy and Valerie Tucker

46â&#x20AC;&#x192;

TEXAS HILL COUNTRY CULTURE

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MARCH EVENTS

1 “She Kills Monsters”

2:30 p.m. Sunday, Playhouse 2000 VK Garage Theater, 305 Washington St. Playhouse 2000 Youth Theater presents “She Kills Monsters,” a drama-comedy play by Qui Nguyen. 830-896-9393. www.playhouse2000.com

1 - 13 “New Works” HCAF Member’s Exhibit

10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday - Friday, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Saturday, Hill Country Arts Foundation, 120 Point Theatre Road, Ingram. An exhibit celebrating our talented members. From paintings to pottery and glass, this show features a wide variety of work created by artists in the Hill Country. 830-367-5121. www.hcaf.com

3 - 28 KACC Art Exhibits

10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday - Saturday, Kerr Arts and Cultural Center, 228 Earl Garrett St. “Guadalupe Watercolor Group,” exhibition of water media art by the members of GWG. “A Dusty Family Tree,” exhibition of artwork by Mary Kaye White and Douglas Garey. “Kerrville Art Club,” annual exhibition featuring the members of the Kerrville Art Club. 830-895-2911. www. kacckerrville.com

3 - 28 “The West in Winter: An Exhibition of Art from the Collection of Betsy and George Mathews”

10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday - Saturday, Museum of Western Art, 1550 Bandera Highway. The collection includes works from more than thirty artists including Robert Pummill, Jim Carson, Michael Coleman, Roy Andersen and John Moyers and will consist entirely of winter scenes from the early days of the American West. 830896-2553. www.museumofwesternart.com

5 - 8 Hill Country Cluster of Dogs Show

8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Thursday - Sunday, Kerr County Hill Country Youth Event Center, 3785 Highway 27. Annual all breed dog show featuring approximately 1,000 dogs and over 100 breeds being exhibited. 210-364-4983. www.sanantoniokennelclub.com

6 Family Game Night

6 - 7:30 p.m. Friday, The Salvation Army Kroc Center, 201 Holdsworth Drive. Unplug from those electronic devices and plug in to your family by playing board games. No experience necessary – all skill levels welcome. A variety of games will be available to choose from or bring your favorite board game to share for the night. Refreshments available for purchase. 830-3155762. www.kerrvillekroc.org

7 KPSF Trivia Night

TEXAS HILL COUNTRY CULTURE

MARCH 2020

over 300 attendees. Buy your tickets early by going online at kpsf.net/trivianight — by March 5 — and join in the fun. Questions? Call 830-257-9282.

7 Robert Earl Keen/Hill Country Youth Orchestra Annual Fundraiser Concert

8 p.m. Saturday, Cailloux Theater, 910 Main St. Robert Earl Keen will bring his most beloved songs and Hill Country charm to the stage for his 13th annual concert. Back by popular demand will be his very special guests, the highly acclaimed Quebe Sisters and featuring 130 students of the Hill Country Youth Orchestras opening the show. 830-285-9781. www.hcyo.org; www. caillouxtheater.com

7 Family Game Night

7 Kerrville Masonic Lodge #697 Annual Swap Meet and Indoor Garage Sale 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. Saturday, Kerrville Masonic Lodge Hall, 119 Methodist Encampment Road. Second annual swap meet and garage sale benefiting the Kerrville Masonic Lodge #697. 214-914-4280.

7 Hill Country Chorale Classical Musical Festival

4 p.m. Saturday, First United Methodist Church. Music by the Hill Country Chorale and individual artists (vocal and instrumental.) 830-895-3710. www. hillcountrychorale.org

13 Family Movie Night

7 p.m. Friday, The Salvation Army Kroc Center, 201 Holdsworth Drive. Looking for a family-friendly activity on a Friday night? Join us, every second Friday of the month, at the Kroc Center for a Family Movie Night. Only G and PG rated movies will be shown. Refreshments available for purchase. 830-315-5762. www.kerrvillekroc.org

13 - 29 “No Body Like Jimmy”

7:30 p.m. Friday - Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday Marc 22 and March 29, Hill Country Arts Foundation, Indoor Theatre, 120 Point Theatre Road, Ingram. A hilarious comedy that involves a dead body and two people running around trying to convince everyone that the person Is still alive. 830-367-5121. www.hcaf.com

14 KCUW Shamrock Shuffle 5K Run/Walk

14 -15 Luck O’ the Pup Flyball Tournament

8 a.m. Saturday - Sunday, Kerr County Hill Country Youth Event Center, 3785 Highway 27. Flyball is run in teams of four dogs as a relay, with two teams racing each other. The lanes are 51 feet long consisting of four jumps and a spring-loaded box with a ball. It is a facepaced, relay drag race. 713-205-7340.

19 Kerrville-Schreiner Park Promotional Days – Family Game Night 6 - 8 p.m. Thursday, Kerrville-Schreiner Park Recreation Hall, 2385 Bandera Highway. A family-friendly competition filled game night. 830-257-7300. www. kerrvilletx.gov

20 Family Game Night

20 - April 17 “The Private Lives of Inanimate Objects” Art Exhibit 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday- Friday, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Saturday, Hill Country Arts Foundation, 120 Point Theatre Road, Ingram. An invitational exhibit featuring twelve area artists. 830-367-5121. www.hcaf.com

21 - 22 Redbud Artisan Market

21 Bird Walk and Talk

8 - 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Riverside Nature Center, 150 Francisco Lemos St. Join Paul and Deloris Sellin on a leisurely stroll along the River Trail. Bird enthusiasts of all ages and experience are welcome. 830-257-4837. www.riversidenaturecenter.org

21 Camerata San Antonio String Quartet – “Blueprint”

3 p.m. Saturday, Schreiner University, Rodman Steele Recital Hall, 2100 Memorial Blvd. Camerata San Antonio presents chamber music of the highest caliber to our many and diverse classical music-loving audiences, we are equally committed to providing educational concerts and musical enrichments to San Antonio’s public school

students. 210-492-9519. www.cameratasa.org

21 Kerrville-Schreiner Park Promotional Days – Campfire Night 7:30 - 9 p.m. Saturday, Kerrville-Schreiner Park Teepee, 2385 Bandera Highway. Relax next to the campfire at the teepee and sing along to campfire songs and more. 830-257-7300. www.kerrvilletx.gov

21 Celtic Angels Ireland

7:30 p.m. Saturday, Cailloux Theater, 910 Main St. Celtic Angels Ireland celebrates their cherished heritage through Irish dance, music, and song. 830-896-9393. www.caillouxtheater.com

27 Magic in Motown

6 - 9 p.m. Friday, St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 320 Saint Peter St. Annual fundraiser for Art2Heart. Live music and children performances, dinner and a live and silent auction. Attendees encouraged to come dressed in 60s and 70s nostalgia or just come as you are. 830-7923338. www.art2heart.org

27 Annual Guns and Hoses Football Game

7 p.m. Friday, Tivy Antler Stadium, 1310 Sidney Baker St. A friendly, competitive flag football game between our outstanding Kerrville Police and Fire Departments to foster community relationships while raising money for a local charity. This year’s game benefits Families and Literacy. Come out and join us for a fun filled family event that includes a great pre-game, half time show and concessions. 830-315-5433. amber@myagentamber. com

28 Roaring Lions 2020 Open Car Show

27 - April 24 HCAF Invitational Show “Altars” 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday - Friday, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Saturday, Hill Country Arts Foundation, 120 Point Theatre Road, Ingram. An exhibit featuring artists’ spiritual journeys. 830-367-5121. www.hcaf.com

28 - 29 Texas Woodcarvers Guild Spring Round-Up Show and Sale

9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday, 11a.m. - 3 p.m. Sunday, Kerr County Hill Country Youth Event Center, 3785 Highway 27. Judged show and sale of all levels of woodcarvers. 210-669-3181. www.texaswoodcarversguild.com

28 Diploma Dash 5K

8 a.m. Saturday, Louise Hays Park, 202 Thompson Drive. Please join the ladies of Kerrville Junior Service Guild as they present the Diploma Dash. All proceeds from this fun 5K will benefit their scholarship for young women who show exemplary service in their communities. www.kerrvillejuniorservcieguild.org

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Texas Hill Country Culture - March 2020

Articles inside

OUT & ABOUT Superball

DEVIL'S SINKHOLE Look at natural wonders large and small

OLD TUNNEL STATE PARK Far from the cityfind amazing burgers and bats

LUCKENBACH Looking back on a land of musical legends

Your Home

SWEET & SAVORY Pack a perfect spring picnic

MUSE Nature photographer

EVENT PICKS March activities

MEDINA Relax by the river and savor sweet treats

UNCORKED From nature to lips

GET TO KNOW Local environmentalists

Features

WELLNESS Go outside