LA GRA NG E TX
Welcome to La Grange!
Are you looking for a little piece of heaven right here in Texas? Well, you’ve come to the right place. Surrounded by the Colorado River and luscious rolling hills, La Grange offers a unique blend of old-world charm and the comforts of home. Offering a diverse selection of museums, boutiques and tasty treats ... there is no doubt that downtown La Grange has something for everyone.
Complementing the historic ambiance of downtown, our quaint city has much to offer with nearby wineries, live music venues, state historic sites, and cultural centers.
So don’t be bashful, load up the family, grab a friend, or just take a staycation. Once you’ve discovered La Grange, you’ll know why we are the Best Little Town in Texas.
Sincerely, La Grange Visitors Bureau
The La Grange, Texas magazine is produced and published by Texas-based Trips Publications, a publisher with a focus on small towns throughout Texas. To view all of the towns in the Trips Publications family, visit tripspublications.com or call 979-725-3080 to request copies. Michelle Banse Stokes Partner/Publisher
Lori Olivarez-Ligues Partner/Sales Kara Kleimann Reporter/Photographer
Brooke Ligues, Molly Olivarez, Debbie Harrison Sales Associates
Richard Schmidt, Tyler Schmidt, Joe Jones , Beth Weishuhn, Andy Johnson, Mary Vast, Donella Dopslauf-Cernosek, Pete Samuels, Mike Morphew, Coy Heinrich, Ron Howard, Phillip Adamcik, Frank Smith, Mark Prasek Contributors
Editorial - 979-725-3080
michelle@tripspublications.com
Advertising and Circulation - 979-451-0826
lori@tripspublications.com 406 W. Main Street, Suite 105 Weimar, Texas 78962
www.tripspublications.com
Above, the Fayette County Courthouse in downtown La Grange, 151 North Washington Street. Centered is the Dawson Memorial; it reads: “Erected by the state of Texas to the memory of her defenders. Captain N. H. Dawson and his command, who fell at the Battle of Salado Texas, Sept. 18th, 1842. (Correction) Captain Nicholas Mosby Dawson and 36 other volunteers were killed near Salado Creek in Bexar County.” ®Michel Mond/Adobe Stock.
HISTORIC LEGACY
Top photo, the north side of the public square of La Grange, Texas in the early 1900s. Known businesses until 1939: Willenberg’s General Merchandise; Dr. G. W. Radford; B. F. Wilson; Ligon’s County Seat Saloon; Dr. Murphey; Wells, Fargo & Co.; Ft. Worth Packery; M. Schlesinger dry goods; Racket Store; Simon & Rosenstein; Joe Kainer; E. J. McLean Millinery; Smith & Lidiak land agents; G. A. Tiemann bakery; La Grange Auto Sales; H. L. Koenecke laundry; Army Goods Store; E. J. Eck Shoe Shop; Grasshoff Meat Market; Spies Confectionery; Ed Schultz’s Restaurant. Photo courtesy of the Fayette Heritage Museum & Archives in La Grange.
The History of La Grange, Texas
Surrounded by the Colorado River and luscious rolling hills, today La Grange offers a diverse selection of museums, boutiques, and tasty treats, but there was a time when we weren’t so well known.
In 1826, John Henry Moore built a twin blockhouse within what are now La Grange’s city limits; he named the structure Moore’s fort. Area settlers sought shelter there from Indian attacks, and by 1831 a small community had developed around the fort. A town was platted in 1837, and when the Congress of the Republic of Texas established Fayette County that year, La Grange became its county seat.
The ethnic composition of La Grange began to change during the 1840s and 1850s as increasing numbers of Germans and Czechs immigrated to Fayette County. Hence our love affair with kolaches!
By 1884, the City of La Grange included four churches, three schools, an opera house, an oil factory and a bank. Let’s not forget to mention, the railroad had also arrived.
Today, La Grange has a population of almost 5,000 and has managed to keep its good old fashioned country charm and mystique. Most of our downtown businesses reside in historic structures dating back to the late 1800s. Our museums encompass everything from our love affair with quilts to our Czech culture and traditions.
Just in case you haven’t figured it out, we are that La Grange, home to the famed Chicken Ranch, which was the inspiration for the hit Broadway play and film, The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas. And let’s not forget ZZ Top’s classic rock song La Grange is about us, too.
Although many stories and rumors exist about the Chicken Ranch, the truth is much less sensational. Deemed the oldest continually operating brothel in the US when it shuttered its doors in 1973, the Chicken Ranch got its name when the Great Depression hit. Though the Ranch had plenty of clients, times grew harder and money was more difficult to obtain. Hence the poultry standard of charging one chicken for one service. Soon chickens were everywhere and the establishment officially became known as the Chicken Ranch. With the closing of its doors in 1973, the land and building were bought by private citizens who later sold the main house in 1977 to an investor from Dallas who turned it into a restaurant. The remaining original house was left on the property to turn into ruins.
The story of La Grange’s Chicken Ranch brings with it snickers and giggles from tourists both near and far, but to those who lived through the media explosion surrounding the scandal of the closing of the ranch, there were harsh words and painful memories. History of the Chicken Ranch remains a dark piece of history for some and a tourist attraction for others.
Regardless of why you chose La Grange, we’re so happy you’re here and look forward to seeing you around.
Czech Out La Grange, Texas!
THE FAYETTE COUNTY COURTHOUSE that stands today as a fixture on the La Grange downtown square was built in 1891. This threestory structure is constructed of stone and masonry and designed in a Romanesque Revival style. It is 88 feet by 109 feet with a clock tower that rises 100 feet from the ground. On the tower front there is a bald eagle that was carved on a 5 foot by 14 foot stone slab. The main courtroom, shaped like a half moon, is 85 feet by 42 feet and has a capacity of 500.
Over the past 100 plus years, the Fayette County Courthouse has stood through many changes. A flood in 1913 caused substantial damages to the basement and first floor. Offices were remodeled and enlarged, structures added on to the footprint and, eventually, a complete restoration would bring it back to close to its original state.
Today, the Fayette County Courthouse still houses county offices and holds court proceedings. The public may tour public areas of the historic structure during normal business hours, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is located at 151 North Washington Street, on the square in downtown La Grange. Source: https://www.co.fayette.tx.us/ page/fayette.Courthouse
151 North Washington Street | www.co.fayette.tx.us/page/fayette. Courthouse
top, the Fayette County Courthouse on the downtown square in La Grange; after you’ve seen the courthouse, take a short walk to the Texas Heroes Museum, located just off the downtown square.
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AREA ATTRACTIONS
THE TEXAS HEROES MUSEUM was opened September 2016 in an empty building. But this was no ordinary building. This beautiful Victorian Gothic stone building had been the Fayette County Jail from 1883 to 1985. When the new county jail was opened, the Old Jail was in bad shape. Local citizens collected donations to repair the building, and their names are in stones in the sidewalk. The building was opened again in 1995 as the office for the Chamber of Commerce and the La Grange Visitors Center. When the Visitors Center moved to the newly restored Historic Casino Hall in September 2016, the Old Jail became available to house a museum to honor Texans who have served and sacrificed to win and preserve freedom and liberty.
171 South Main Street | www.texasheroesmuseum.com.
La Grange’s CASINO HALL has been restored to its 1881 grandeur. Today the second-floor performing arts center hosts plays and parties, same as it did a century ago when the former Casino Club brought the German people in La Grange together for gatherings and celebrations. The building also houses the La Grange Visitors’ Bureau, which operates the town’s visitors center and local gift shop.
254 North Jefferson Street | www.cityoflg.com/tourism/historic_ casino_hall
THE TEXAS QUILT MUSEUM is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit entity. It is housed in two historic 1890s buildings, which provide a fine showcase for both antique and contemporary quilt art with their high ceilings, brick walls, and original hardwood floors.
The ever-popular local museum officially opened on November 13, 2011. Since then, it has received a Main Street award, was a finalist for the Texas Downtown Association’s Presidents Award, and won the prestigious 2012 Preservation Texas award for transforming its two buildings in the city’s historic district. It was also voted Best Museum in Fayette County.
140 West Colorado Street | texasquiltmuseum.org
MKT RAILROAD DEPOT & MUSEUM operates under the mission to help shape the future through researching and preserving the past and present, and sharing our knowledge with the world. Visitors are invited to see things anew through the lens of their outstanding collections and historical artifacts. The museum always keeps their offerings fresh through our special events, educational lectures, and temporary exhibitions. You’re invited to come visit, dive on in, and have fun while learning.
In 2022, for the 125th Anniversary of the depot, it got a new coat of paint in the official Katy colors. They have many more projects planned for updates to the depot. With the support of visitors and citizens in our community through donations, they are able to keep the depot the way history should be kept.
260 North Washington Street | lgmktdepotmuseum.com
From top, Casino Hall houses the La Grange visitors center; the Texas Quilt Museum is a must-see on your list; MKT Railroad Depot is a fun stop for the whole family.
7 | LA GRANGE, TEXAS
AREA ATTRACTIONS
TEXAS CZECH HERITAGE AND CULTURAL CENTER preserves and promotes the history, language, culture, and heritage of Czech Texans who trace their ancestry to the present-day Czech Republic or the former Austro-Hungarian Empire (including Bohemia, Moravia, Silesia, and Slovakia). TCHCC incorporated on March 24, 1997, and received 501(c) 3 status in July of the same year. Statewide efforts by Czech-founded organizations to raise money to develop a Center that would preserve and promote the history, heritage, and culture of the people of Czech ethnicity actually began in 1995.
In December 1995, Texans of Czech Ancestry (TOCA), an umbrella organization that serves to improve and facilitate communication among Czech-founded organizations, called a meeting to hear a proposal offered by the Czech Heritage Society of Texas to build a library for the preservation of books and documents significant to Texas Czechs. Following presentations and discussion, TOCA voted to support building a statewide Czech cultural center with a library, museum, and archives.
250 W Fair Grounds Road | www.czechtexas.org
MONUMENT HILL AND KREISCHE BREWERY STATE
HISTORIC SITES - In 1849, German immigrant Heinrich Ludwig Kreische purchased 172 acres of land including the Dawson/Mier tomb, now known as Monument Hill State Historic Site. Master stonemason Kreische built a three-story house for his family. In the 1860s, he utilized the spring water from the ravine below his house and started one of the first commercial breweries in Texas. Walk the ruins of this once-bustling brewery and envision how Fayette County citizens would come and enjoy a pint of Kreische’s Bluff Beer while looking out toward the beautiful Texas landscape. The Kreische Brewery and home are listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
The monument, pictured, marks the tomb of the men that died during the Dawson Massacre of September 1842 and the ill-fated Mier expedition of November 1842, which resulted in the March 1843 “black bean” incident. Nearby citizens reinterred their remains here in a common tomb so that they can be honored for their sacrifice. The site is now marked by a 1936 Centennial monument.
414 TX-92 Spur, La Grange | thc.texas.gov/historic-sites/kreischebrewery
FRISCH AUF! GOLF COURSE is a nine-hole favorite for golfers. Their Championship Bermuda Grass greens are some of the finest in the area, making this one of the best golfing destinations in the state of Texas. The golf course is fun and challenging, which makes it the perfect place to play for golfers of all skill levels. Frisch Auf!, translated means “Freshen Up.”
575 Country Club Drive | favcc.club/golf
From top, Monument Hill, on top the bluff in La Grange, remembers Texas’ fallen heroes; Frisch Auf! Golf Course
Weimar - 979-725-6006 - 707 S. Eagle Schulenburg - 979-743-2159 - 260 N. Kessler Columbus - 979-942-9140 - 1114 Milam office@tricountyrealestate.com www tricountyrealestate com
Richard Schmidt Jewelry
SECOND- AND THIRD-GENERATION JEWELERS RICHARD AND TYLER SCHMIDT TALK SHOP
What do Sheryl Crow, Lauren Daigle, Miranda Lambert and Steve Tyler have in common (in addition to successful singing careers, of course)? They all have jewelry pieces designed and handmade by Richard Schmidt.
Richard Schmidt Jewelry has been featured in numerous publications including Southern Living and Cowboys & Indians magazines. In addition to local studios in La Grange and Round Top, Richard’s pieces are sold in 25 galleries and retail locations across the United States. While his jewelry continues to draw excessive attention, Richard Schmidt himself remains humble, kind and happily rooted in Fayette County.
Widely known for his signature, one-of-a-kind hammered-silver cuffs, Richard Schmidt designed and made his first cuff more than twenty years ago. “Cuffs have a lot of metal surface,” Richard shared, “and for me, it’s like a canvas to create, to tell a nice story.” That original cuff launched Richard Schmidt Jewelry Design. Joined by his son, Tyler, in 2014, the Schmidt Jewelry legacy is sure to persevere.
ARTISTIC LA GRANGE
Cover, Richard Schmidt adds a silver rose to one of his signature cuffs. Above, Tyler and Richard Schmidt at their respective benches where each jewelry piece is crafted.
“It’s like a canvas to create, to tell a nice story.
Backing up a bit, Richard and his wife, Janet, purchased Schmidt Jewelry and Gifts from Richard’s parents in 2000. Artistically gifted as well as holding a bachelor’s degree with a minor in Art, Richard exudes creativity and passion. Richard attested, “I felt compelled to do something on my own, and I slowly started developing my own things.” He admits the process involved a lot of trial and some error, but he undoubtedly found his niche. “The common thread throughout our entire collection of jewelry is handmade silver that is hammered and oxidized. I’ve always liked that hammered, kind of rustic, handmade look,” Richard explained. “Janet and I love the southwest, so that was a big influence in the design.”
Each piece of jewelry is literally and physically handled and crafted by Richard and/or Tyler. In fact, Richard revealed, “we could buy a bender for the cuffs, but we prefer to hand bend each one. Sometimes they’re not exactly perfect, but I think our customers have come to appreciate that.” Tyler confirmed, “We don’t use any machining in the back. It is all 100% hand done.” Few, if any, would argue that mass production is no match for uniqueness and personal touch.
Unsurprisingly, Richard and Tyler each brings his own individuality and talents to the jewelry-design process. For example, Richard is clearly the guru on the large jewelry pieces. When it comes to specific stones, Richard prefers working with turquoise; Tyler is skilled with pearls. “I’ve always loved turquoise,” Richard confessed, “Janet and I go to the gem show in Tucson every year; it’s huge. It has everything you can imagine. … We buy a lot of our stones there.” While Tyler learned jewelry-making from his father, both men claim that Tyler is the expert when it comes to working with pearls. “I enjoy the attention to detail that pearls require,” Tyler declared.
Continued on page 12.
From top, Tyler Schmidt solders a gold head to a silver ring band in preparation for a gemstone; silver jewelry pieces from Richard Schmidt Jewelry Designs featuring freshwater pearls and turquoise stones.
Inspiration for their pieces is most often a personal invention. “Often the creation of new pieces comes from being in the middle of working on one piece, and you think to yourself ‘this would look good’ … then you try it, and you have something brand new,” Tyler disclosed. “No two pieces are the same.” Sometimes customers ask for repeat pieces, but even those turn out unique. “We do remake some designs,” Richard continued, “but because each piece is handmade individually, they’re always a little bit different. … We’ve been approached by companies to mass produce, but we decided a long time ago that’s just not what we want to do. I’m glad we’ve kept it small and do our own thing.”
A second-generation jeweler, Richard’s local roots go back even further. “I am a fourth-generation Fayette Countian,” Richard stated gratefully, “I learned the importance of family and community from my father. He loved Fayette County and this area.” Smiling, Tyler chimed in, “It’s pretty cool to be somewhere for the fifth generation.” This family’s continued loyalty to Fayette County is a win-win situation for all parties – the Schmidt families as well as the communities of La Grange and Round Top.
Richard Schmidt Jewelry storefronts are located at 118 North Washington Street in La Grange and 601 North Washington Street in Round Top. Follow Richard Schmidt Jewelry on Facebook, Instagram and online at richardschmidtjewelry.com.
At top, Schmidt Jewelry & Gifts in La Grange offers patrons a unique shopping experience. Right, a sampling of two-tone silver and gold jewelry from Richard Schmidt Jewelry Designs.
The Crown Bar
WHEN WALLS TALKED, BETH WEISHUHN AND ANDY JOHNSON LISTENED
As I crossed the street to The Crown Bar, I turned to watch an open-top ’62 Thunderbird roll up to the curb. The friendly, larger-than-life couple that jumped out to greet me were no doubt the owners I was meeting to interview. Naively, I stepped inside The Crown Bar. I was not prepared. Defying size, the place was tiny but magnificent; I felt like I had entered a different, much-cooler dimension than I had been in moments before.
“Hey, Beth, do you want to open a bar?” Andy Johnson asked. Instantly Beth Weishuhn responded, “Sure, as long as I get to decorate it.” That brief exchange marked the inception of The Crown Bar in downtown La Grange. Andy had already found the perfect location. “I was walking down the street,” Andy began, “and I saw a For Rent sign in this building, and I thought, ‘okay, universe, I’m listening.’ I approached Beth, and here we are.” Paying homage to the building’s history as a bottling factory for Crown soda at the turn of the 19th century, the couple named their new business venture The Crown Bar. Beth’s father, Larry Weishuhn, eagerly agreed to come on as a third partner.
Passionate and extremely gifted in the areas of fashion and design, Beth humbly passes the credit to the structure itself. “The place was pretty much a blank slate,” Beth described, “the building spoke to how it wanted to be done.” Neutral-colored walls and ceilings with fluorescent lighting were transformed into swanky, classy areas that invite patrons to imbibe and enjoy. Since much of the furniture is for individual sale, the eclectic décor is both unique and ever-changing. “People buy chairs all the time,” Beth laughed, “I just get more and trade them out.”
Left, Beth Weishuhn and Andy Johnson pose on one of the comfy chairs upstairs at The Crown Bar; top, the outdoor patio provides a fun, relaxed area to hang out with friends.
The building spoke to how it wanted to be done. “
Beth chooses each distinctive and sought-after chair by listening to the chair. She crossed the room to demonstrate her technique. “I’ve always chosen chairs this way,” Beth explained as she plopped into a chair and lounged, “I ask myself, ‘can I sit here and hold a drink and a cigarette like they did in the old movies?’ I must be able to sit like this in a chair.” Looking around, Beth noted, “of course, the mounts are all my dad’s.” Skulls and shoulder mounts from Larry’s personal collection bring a touch of wild to the space.
For their custom-made bar, Andy chose black walnut wood. “It’s like wood concrete,” Andy affirmed, “You can’t sand it; you can’t drill into it.” Sounds like a perfect surface for the tasks at hand. Known for superior old-fashioneds, I asked what makes them so good. Beth grinned, “Love. (pause) Magic.” Smiling, Andy cut in, “honestly, what makes ours the best is simplicity. Our drinks are simple. We use very old recipes and serve what people know.”
Agreeing, Beth said, “we don’t have to add a bunch of stuff to disguise what’s already good.” Larry is credited as the official taste tester. Andy shared, “If Larry says, ‘that’s a good drink,’ I know it’s made right.”
You can expect to find a laid-back, inviting atmosphere at The Crown Bar. “This is a place to have a great conversation and make a friend,” Andy declared. What will you NOT find at The Crown Bar? Televisions. There are no TVs in the bar. In unison, Beth and Andy confirmed, “we agreed no TVs, absolutely no.” Not only has the policy received very little flak, but it has also positively resulted in an excess of quality communication. “When we look around,” Andy started, “people are talking to people. They’re not in their phones. Everyone is telling jokes, being silly, having fun.”
While no one looks forward to hearing “last call” at the end of a night, Beth and Andy have even found a way to make closing time fun at The Crown. The final song for the evening is “Camel Walk” by Southern Culture on the Skids with lyrics that mention snack crackers and oatmeal pies, “Don’t go around hungry now, … All I want is just one more oatmeal pie.” As the song plays, Little Debbie Oatmeal Crème Pies are distributed throughout the bar. Andy chuckled, “When the pies start going around, people groan, ‘oh, it’s time to go home.’”
Imagine vintage and boho meet glam and rustic. Regardless of how you imagine The Crown Bar to be, it is certain to be an enjoyable, one-of-a-kind experience. Go see for yourself. Located at 114 South Main Street, just off the square in La Grange. Visit them on Facebook, Instagram, and at thecrownbartx.com.
From top, Andy serves one of The Crown’s signature old fashioneds (side note from the photographer: the drink did not disappoint); The Crown Bar is the perfect place for great conversation; The Crown’s upstairs lounge has an eclectic vibe that makes guests always feel welcome.
An Alternative Treatment Option for OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA SUFFERERS
BY SLEEP SOLUTIONS OF CENTRAL TEXAS
Dr. Larry Hatfield is a general dentist and owner of Sleep Solutions of Central Texas of La Grange, which he opened in 2022, after dealing with his own battles with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and finding a solution to combat it.
Dr. Hatfield has undergone extensive training for treating sleep apnea with medically-approved oral appliances and is the first in the area to offer such treatment. These devices are specifically designed to treat sleep apnea and function as a safe and effective alternative to CPAP and BiPAP machines.
Q: Dr. Hatfield, you have been a general dentist in the La Grange area since 1982. What led you to start Sleep Solutions of Central Texas?
Dr. H: I began Sleep Solutions of Central Texas out of the desire to help people get the proper sleep they require in order to live a better, healthier life. What led me to start Sleep Solutions was my own personal experience with OSA. As a chronic snorer, I experienced firsthand how wearing a medical device known as an oral adjustable positioner during sleep not only reduced my snoring drastically, but also improved my quality of sleep and the quality of my life. I knew I wanted to help others change their life for the better too and underwent the necessary training to provide this medical service as a dentist.
My interest came initially from my own dealings with OSA. In 2005, I found an appliance that worked extremely well. I also made one for my brother at the time. We each noticed better sleep and felt more refreshed in the morning with more energy throughout the day. We also noticed that the people around us slept better and weren’t suffering the side effects from “secondhand snoring” any longer.
Then in 2020, when my brother contracted Covid, the appliance played a pivotal role in his recovery. He was in and out of the hospital in four days. He and his doctor attributed his speedy recovery in large part
to the appliance allowing him to breathe normally again. The appliance essentially took the place of the respirator, which was not helping him improve quickly enough. This inspired me to see how I could help others. Sleep Solutions has in fact helped many people with great success in our short existence.
Q: What is Sleep Apnea?
Dr. H: Sleep Apnea is a sleep-related breathing disorder that causes interruptions to sleep in the form of snoring and stoppages of breathing lasting for periods of 10 seconds or more. Sleep is so important to our health and the health of those around us. Left untreated, research shows that OSA can shorten your life anywhere from 8.7 to 20 years. In other words, premature death is a real possibility with OSA, as well as many other overlapping symptoms and health issues.
It is associated with heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, impotency, and neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s, dementia, and Alzheimer’s. It is also a culprit in all of the symptoms related to lack of sleep, such as brain fog, fatigue, irritability, increased risk of accidents, and more. There are different levels of OSA ranging from mild, moderate, to severe. We treat people with a wide range of the condition, including those who have been prescribed the CPAP or BiPAP machines but find they cannot tolerate them.
Q: What are some ways one can find out if they have Sleep Apnea?
Dr. H: Some of the home screening you can do is to pay attention for the signs and symptoms of OSA. First, ask those nearest you during sleep if they have ever noticed that you stop breathing at night. Then, evaluate your sleep and your day-to-day waking hours. Do you typically experience fatigue or low energy levels during the day? Do you wake up feeling less rested than before going to bed? Do you tend to fall asleep while sitting inactive or watching tv? Are
you easily irritated or have trouble concentrating or maintaining focus?
At night, do you wake frequently to use the restroom? Or suffer from insomnia? How about any sleep disturbances caused by coughing fits, choking, or gasping for air? Snoring of course is a key indicator, especially if combined with any positive responses to the previous questions. And finally, neck size is another key indicator. For men, if your neck size is 17 inches or larger, chances are good that you are suffering from OSA. Same goes for women whose neck size is 15 inches or larger.
Above all, have an open mind and be aware. If someone tells you that you quit breathing during sleep, don’t deny it or disregard it. Get checked by your primary care provider or give us a call for a screening appointment. OSA does not typically go away on its own. Denial of having OSA also does not make it go away!
Q: How does your process work?
Dr. H: Our process begins with a complementary screening and depending upon the outcome and what we hear from you, your spouse, your doctor or specialist, we then move forward with treatment and closely monitor your progress. We work with boardcertified sleep doctors and offer at-home sleep testing for your convenience. Proper training for treating OSA is paramount for successful outcomes, and my staff and I stay up to date through regular training.
Q: How can people find you or learn more?
Dr. H: Sleep Solutions of Central Texas is located in La Grange at 2379 West Travis Street in Suite A of the new LG-RV shopping center next to Sealand. Our phone number is 979-702-1528. We are on facebook and online at www.SleepSolutionsCentralTX.com. Give us a call to schedule your complimentary visit. As I often say, we treat Sleep Apnea one breath at a time, so don’t let Sleep Apnea take your breath away! God bless.
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A PLACE IN THE KITCHEN
Le Petite Gourmet Shoppe
A BUSINESS OWNER, AN ENGLISH CHEF AND A STORE MANAGER TELL HOW THEIR PATHS CROSSED
A business is only as good as the people who run it. Let’s meet the noteworthy team at Le Petite Gourmet Shoppe – owner Donella, Chef Mike and store manager Coy – to learn more about this well-oiled, kitchenthemed machine.
Donella Dopslauf-Cernosek’s first career as a County Extension Agent segued nicely into what has become her next –private business owner and entrepreneur. Upon retirement, Donella decided to open a small business in her hometown. In fact, the business was so small that she chose to name it “Le Petite.” Customers have questioned the spelling of the shop’s name. “It is a French term, but it was spelled by an Irishman,” Donella confirmed.
Therefore, the would-have-been “La Petit” was written as “Le Petite.” Regardless of the spelling, this “little” shop has experienced nearly two decades of big success and continued growth.
When it opened in 2006, Le Petite Gourmet Shoppe was too small for its inventory. “All I could do was put one of each item on the store shelf, and I rented space upstairs to put the additional items,” Donella chuckled, “when an item sold, I would run up there and bring another one down.” Even in that slim space, Le Petite began to offer small cooking classes. Donella and her versatile staff made it work. “I wanted to see if La Grange was ready for something like this,” she
explained, “and in one year we outgrew it.” Thanks to loyal and new customers, Le Petite is now in its third store space. Each location has increased in physical size and retail inventory as well as made upgrades to each demonstration kitchen. Today, Le Petite Gourmet Shoppe occupies one of the larger buildings on the square in downtown La Grange.
From left, Chef Mike Morphew preps for a class in Le Petite’s demonstration kitchen; Store owner Donella Dopslauf-Cernosek shows off premium German cookware by Fissler.
When still at their second location, Donella remembered, “One day a lady came in and she said, ‘Oh my gosh. My husband would just go crazy in this place.’ I looked at her and said, ‘Wonderful. Bring him in.’” At the time, Donella had no idea she had just invited her soon-to-be resident chef into the shop.
Chef Mike Morphew entered Le Petite for the first time in official chef attire. In his commanding British accent, Chef Mike expressed an interest in hosting culinary classes. In response to his query, Donella said, “Do I look like I can afford a chef of your caliber?” However, their passion for all things culinary surpassed the financial boundaries, and Chef Mike joined Le Petite in 2011.
Chef Mike’s culinary training took place at Westminster College Culinary School in the mid-1960s, after which he worked in London, Switzerland and France. “I moved into (culinary) education in about 1980,” Chef Mike recalled. “I ended up as director of the biggest college in Europe, in the culinary section.” In 2000, Chef Mike accepted an invitation to be the guest chef at a Make-A-Wish charity event in Vermont. That event led Chef Mike to more opportunities, including opening culinary schools in the British Virgin Islands and in Norfolk, Virginia. “I moved to Norfolk to open a school there,” Chef Mike shared, “and I met my wife there who was from Texas.” (Yes, the wife that would walk into Le Petite only a few years later.) The couple moved to Texas and the La Grange area became their home. Happily, Chef Mike declared, “the rest is history.”
BY KARA
Coy Heinrich’s employment at Le Petite came unexpectedly, even to him. “I was more or less tricked into working,” Coy laughed. “She (Donella) called me on a Saturday and said she needed help. So, I did. I worked that day.” Nearing the end of his junior year in high school at the time, Coy thought he had just done a oneday gig. “Then here comes Monday,” Coy continued. “I got home from school and Donella is calling me asking, ‘where are you?’” Coy continued working at Le Petite on weekends and holidays through college. That first “day” of work for Coy was eight years ago, and today he is a manager and vital component to the store’s success.
Coy credits his love of baking to his family, especially his grandmother. “My grandmother cooked and baked everything. She taught me little things here and there,” Coy affirmed, “and that turned into bigger things.” Currently, Coy oversees the “Kids in the Kitchen” classes offered for children ages five to 12 at Le Petite during holidays and summer. Interestingly, Coy attended Le Petite’s cooking classes as a youngster himself, and he remembers asking Chef Mike about using fondant. “I didn’t know how to put fondant on a round cake,” Coy recalled, “so he (Chef Mike) showed me with a kitchen towel how to do it.”
To learn more about Le Petite Gourmet Shoppe’s classes and/or inventory, stop by 226 West Colorado Street on the square in La Grange. You can also find them online at lepetitegourmetshoppe. com, Facebook and Instagram.
Above, Manager Coy Heinrich reshelves a popular cookbook, written by Dorothy Huang, a recurring chef at Le Petite; top right, a bird’s-eye view of the cookware and electronics sections of Le Petite’s showroom floor; bottom right, a sampling of fine international teas and tea accessories found at Le Petite Gourmet Shoppe.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
JANUARY
La Grange Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards Banquet
• Round Top Family Library Annual Chili Cook-off
• Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center Texas Blacksmith Conference and Texas Antique Gas Engine Reunion
• Original Round Top Antiques Fair in Texas
FEBRUARY
• La Grange Main Street Uncorked Wine Festival Fayette County Country Music Club’s Annual Country Opry
• Colorado Valley Quilt Guild Best Little Quilt Show in Texas
• Rotary Club of La Grange annual pancake supper
• Festival Hill Institute Valentine concert
• Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center Valentine’s Dinner and Concert
• Hospice Brazos Valley Hospice Happening
MARCH
• Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center TOCA Banquet
• The Best Little Cowboy Gathering in Texas Music and Dancing - La Grange Fairgrounds Pavilion
• Fayette County Junior Livestock Show – last weekend
• Emmett Hannes Memorial Fun Run Texas Women’s League Gala
• La Grange Chamber of Commerce Spring meal
• Original Round Top Antiques Fair Kreische Brewery & Monument Hill State Historic Sites Spring Break on the Bluff
• Arts for Rural Texas Fayetteville Courthouse Music Series – every Tuesday evening
APRIL
• Fayette County Sheriff’s Posse Rodeo
• MS-150 Bike-A-Thon – Fayette County Fairgrounds
• La Grange Chamber of Commerce Easter cake auction
• Tejas Trail’s Hells Hills Trail Run
• Kreische Brewery & Monument Hill State Historic Sites Easter on the Bluff
MAY
• Arts for Rural Texas Art Walk of Fayetteville
• Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish – Mayfest in Hostyn
• Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center May Fest
• La Grange Chamber of Commerce Conference –Celebrate National Small Business Week
• Serbin Voyagers 5k
• St. Paul Serbin 5k
• La Grange Main Street Historic Walking Tour Kreische Brewery & Monument Hill State Historic Sites Bluff Schuetzenfest
JUNE
• La Grange Chamber of Commerce networking bingo
• Fayette County Juneteenth parade and celebration
• La Grange Main Street’s movie nights on the square
Fayette County Library summer reading program
• Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church Plum Feast
JULY
Round Top parade - July 4th celebration
• Frisch Auf! Valley Country Club fireworks show
• Summer reading program at the Fayette County Library
• La Grange Visitors Center’s Christmas in July
AUGUST
• Fayette County Sheriff’s Posse rodeo – bull riding and rodeo event
• Navidad Valley Cattle Women 5k ranch run Habanero Hundred trail racing - Trail Racing Over Texas
• Fayette County Fair – Labor Day weekend at La Grange Fairgrounds
• Hospice Brazos Valley Hog Splash
Hospice Brazos Valley Fashion Fling
SEPTEMBER
Round Top Family Library Gala
• Texas Heroes Day at Monument Hill State Historic Site
• Relay for Life event in La Grange
• La Grange Chamber of Commerce fall meal
La Grange Chamber of Commerce Casino Night
• Kreische Brewery & Monument Hill State Historic Sites Monument Remembrance Day
OCTOBER
Camp Lone Star Fall Fest
• La Grange Area Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament
• La Grange Chamber of Commerce gun raffle
• La Grange Chamber of Commerce National Women’s Small Business Month
• Original Round Top Antiques Fair in Texas
• La Grange Volunteer Fire Department Fish Fry
• Oktoberfest on the Square - Rotary Club of La Grange and La Grange Main Street
La Grange Main Street’s Trick-or-Treat on the Square
• Texas Czech Heritage and Culture Center Heritage Fest & Muziky
• Queen of the Holy Rosary Hostyn Fall Festival
• La Grange Main Street Historic Walking Tour
Kreische Brewery & Monument Hill State
Historic Sites Archeology
• Kreische Brewery & Monument Hill State
Historic Sites Halloween Event
• Arts for Rural Texas Fayetteville Courthouse
Music Series – every Tuesday evening
NOVEMBER
• La Grange Visitors Center Christmas open house
La Grange Main Street Shop Small Saturday
• Freyburg United Methodist Church Country Christmas Bazaar
• Arts for Rural Texas Harvestfest
• Tejas Trails The Wild Hair Trail Race Festival Institute Film Festival
DECEMBER
• La Grange Main Street’s Schmeckenfest in downtown La Grange
Kreische Brewery & Monument Hill State
Historic Sites Trail of Lights
• Texas Czech Heritage and Culture Center
Christmas Open House
• Faison Home Open House
Sheriff’s Posse New Year’s Eve dance
• Festival Hill Institute Nutcracker ballet
• Hospice Brazos Valley Christmas arts and crafts fair - historic Casino Hall
• Arts for Rural Texas – Holiday Show at Ross Gallery, Fayetteville
MONTHLY
Fayette County Country Music Club’s Country Music Opry
• La Grange Chamber of Commerce Networking –1st Wednesday
WEEKLY
• Bugle Boy music performances
• La Grange Farmers Market – Every Saturday on the Square
QUARTERLY
• La Grange Chamber of Commerce Lunch and Learn - February, June, September and December
FOR MORE INFORMATION visitfayettecounty.com/events lagrangetx.org/events
Schmechenfest, held in December, is an annual public event hosted by The La Grange Main Street and Visitors Bureau. The free event attracts visitors to the Fayette County Courthouse square to sample a multitude of different types of wassail (both leaded and unleaded) made by various business owners and community leaders. At the conclusion of the wassail competition, the title of Schmeckenmeister is awarded to the public’s favorite brewmaster. The festivities begin with a Christmas parade that leads to additional family-friendly activities that include German dancers, Christmas music, delicious treats being sold by local non-profit organizations, kids activities and games, face painting, and pictures with Santa Claus himself. For more information, visit www.cityoflg. com/tourism/schmeckenfest.php.
The 2024 Texas MS 150 is a part of the largest fundraising cycling series in the world. Each year, nearly 50,000 cyclists and more than 5,000 teams ride together to change the world for people with MS. With the fundraising support of each cyclist, The National MS Society can continue their work of tackling the complex challenges of MS. On April 26 and 27, 2025, cyclists will come together to celebrate 40 years of riding for a good cause. Every year includes an overnight stay in La Grange packed full of fun, festivities and a jersey contest. Cyclists ride through the beautiful backroads of Fayette County before settling in at the Fayette County Fairgrounds for the night, waking up to a hot breakfast prepared by volunteers from the community. More information can be found on their website, events.nationalmssociety.org.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
The Fayette County Fair is held every Labor Day weekend at the Fayette County Fairgounds, just north of La Grange. Festivities include live music, creative arts, entertainment, livestock shows, carnival rides, a barbecue cook-off, and a 5K run. The first Fair held in Fayette County was before World War I, and was a flower and Industrial fair which was sponsored by the La Grange Casino Gesellschaft. This was a small fair, but as it became more popular it outgrew the grounds and the building where it was held. It was not an easy job for the people involved in the 1920’s, and it is not an easy job now for the directors to keep improving and adding to the Fair, which last year had an attendance of about 50,000 people. The Fair has come a long way since its beginning. It is considered one of the best Fairs in the State of Texas. To buy tickets or for more information, visit fayettecountyfair.org
TRUE TO HIS ROOTS
Meet Phillip Adamcik
PHILLIP ADAMCIK SHARES THE BENEFITS OF COMING HOME
You know it’s truly “home” when you get there (after any amount of time), and it feels like you never left. Such is the case for Phillip Adamcik, a fourthgeneration business owner who remains loyal to his family roots and his hometown.
After graduating from La Grange High School and earning a bachelor’s degree at Texas A&M University, Phillip Adamcik lived and worked in Austin for several years. When offered a job that would allow him to move back to La Grange, Phillip eagerly accepted. A short time later, Phillip debuted as a newly licensed State Farm Insurance agent. Phillip opened his new office right next door to his father’s business, Adamcik’s Service Station.
From top, Phillip Adamcik at his State Farm office, 420 West Travis Street in La Grange; Phillip and son Brooks fishing in Matagorda. Courtesy photo.
BY KARA KLEIMANN
I am fortunate to be here in my hometown.
Phillip started with zero customers when he opened on January 1, 2016. “We opened on a Saturday,” Phillip recalled, “and I still remember my first customer’s name. I didn’t know her. She was needing insurance, saw the State Farm sign and just walked in.” That first customer on day one consistently grew to an average of 100 customers a month by the end of the first year. Phillip credits much of his customer base to the community he grew up in. Phillip began working at the family’s service station on Saturdays as a young teenager and continued to pitch in on weekends and holidays through school. The connections he made with people over the years are paying off now. “I am fortunate to be here in my hometown,” Phillip shared, “I have a lot of customers that I changed their oil, pumped their gas, washed their windshield … some of their kids and grandkids are my customers as well.”
Phillip and his wife Krystle have two sons, Boone and Brooks. The family is outdoorsy and adventurous; fishing, hunting and golfing are some of their favorite pastimes. Obviously committed to his family and community, Phillip is particularly passionate about the role of educators. “I truly believe teachers are unbelievably important,” Phillip began, “they’re around your kids more than you are for a lot of their life. And they teach them; that’s our future. I want teachers to be as happy as possible.” In addition to school donations, Phillip is generous in a multitude of other areas including churches, chamber events, social events, FFA and the county fair. Giving back seems to come naturally for Phillip. “My mom’s a very charitable person here in town,” Phillip acknowledged, “and my old golf coach, who’s like a mentor of mine, told me, ‘just love ‘em, and they’ll love you back.’ So, I always keep that in mind.”
This article is not meant to be a sales pitch for State Farm Insurance. In fact, Phillip professed, “when getting people in for a quote, I always tell them, ‘let’s just see how the numbers come out.’ I can’t make some kind of magic happen. We talk about it, go over the coverages, and see how it comes out. It’s good or it’s not. But it’s worth a shot.” Apparently, “it’s good” more often than not as Phillip’s business continues to thrive. The best news for his customers may be that Phillip is here for the long haul. “I plan on being here the rest of my life,” Phillip stated emphatically. “There’s nothing better than being able to live and work in my hometown.”
Phillip Adamcik can be found at his State Farm Insurance office at 420 West Travis Street, Suite 102 in La Grange.
From top, Phillip and Krystle Adamcik at a Fayette County CCA Banquet; The Adamcik family after a La Grange Little League All-Stars baseball game Phillip and son Boone deer hunting in South Texas. Courtesy photos.
LA GRANGE ADVERTISER/BUSINESS DIRECTORY
APPLIANCES AND BEDDING
Audio Video Plus
250 Kessler Avenue
Schulenburg, TX
979-743-4485
ART / MUSEUMS
Flatonia Rail Museum
104 East South Main Street
Flatonia, TX
512-927-2727
AUTO SALES AND SERVICE
Cavender Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge & RAM
4850 IH-10
Columbus, TX
979-859-5358
Cavender Auto Country
Weimar Chevrolet, Buick & GMC 1700 IH-10 East Weimar, TX
979-725-8515
Cavender Ford 4860 IH-10 Columbus, TX
979-267-6049
CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE
Columbus Chamber of Commerce 425 Spring Street Columbus, TX 78934 979-732-8385
CHURCHES
Shared Lutheran Ministry of Fayette County St. John in Ruterville 979-249-3155 sharedlutheranministry.com
FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS
Round Top State Bank 2010 Hwy 71 La Grange, TX 979-966-0556
INSURANCE
State Farm Insurance
Phillip Adamcik 420 West Travis Street, #102 979-968-3600
IRRIGATION SYSTEMS
Texas Irrigation & Pipe, LLC 1870 Frelsburg Road Cat Spring, TX 979-732-3970
MEDICAL / HEALTH
Columbus Physical Therapy 107 Shult Drive Columbus, TX 979-732-5783
Sleep Solutions of Central Texas 2379 West Travis Street, STE A La Grange, TX 979-702-1528
NURSING CENTERS / REHABILITATION
College Place Assistance Living 210 College Street Schulenburg, TX 979-43-6180
Jefferson Place Assisted Living 911 South Jefferson La Grange, TX 979-968-9181
Schulenburg Regency Home Health 309 Kessler Avenue Schulenburg, TX 979-743-4663
Schulenburg Regency Nursing Center 111 College Street Schulenburg, TX 979-743-6537
Schulenburg Regency –The Villas
205 East Avenue A Schulenburg, TX 979-743-4791
The Garden Home 205 East Avenue A Schulenburg, TX 979-743-4791
PORTABLE BUILDINGS
Knight Outdoor Building 1758 IH-10 Weimar, TX 979-398-4318
Knight Outdoor Building 4662 NE IH-10 Sealy, TX 281-608-2808
REAL ESTATE
Lone Star Luxe Real Estate 930 Walnut Street Columbus, TX 979-733-8200
Tri-County Real Estate 1114 Milam Street Columbus, TX 979-972-9140
SHOPPING
Le Petite Gourmet Shoppe 226 West Colorado Street 979-968-4000
TreHouse Embroidery and More
107 East Main Street Weimar, TX 979-725-8844
TRANSPORTATION
Carts – Regional Transportation 512-478-RIDE RideCarts.com
WATER WELL SERVICES
Busselman Water Well Service 979-733-2766
Neuendorff Water Well Service, Inc. 509 Veterans Drive Columbus, TX 979-732-2897 or 979-9424255
Top left, downtown shopping on the courthouse square is a hit with both visitors and locals alike; right, large oak trees can be seen all around La Grange.
CITY OF LA GRANGE
La Grange, TX Demographics
La Grange, Texas is centrally located providing ready access to the major metropolitan areas of Houston, San Antonio and Austin. Being the largest City in the County and the County seat, La Grange is the center of commerce for Fayette County. Boasting a vibrant Downtown Business District, La Grange’s role as a regional hub or center continues today. The labor force drawing area of the City consists of a 65 mile radius. The economy is primarily driven by Agriculture, Tourism, Material Excavation, Oil/Gas Exploration and Public Power Generation Industries.
The history, natural beauty, quality of life and various attractions in the region combine to make the La Grange area an ideal place to do business, while attracting visitors and tourism, second homes and retirement homes. La Grange enjoys a rural lifestyle while in close proximity to all the modern amenities of the urban cities nearby. La Grange is approximately one hour driving distance to downtown Austin and one hour and twenty five minutes to downtown Houston.
La Grange, Texas is a great place to grow a family, a business or retire!
La Grange has a 2024 population of 4,591 and is currently growing at a rate of 0.73% annually and its population has increased since the most recent census, which recorded a population of 4,391 in 2020.
The average household income in La Grange is $53,191 with a poverty rate of 12.34%. The median age in La Grange is 43.2 years.
OFFICE OF COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
City of La Grange - 155 East Colorado Street, La Grange, Texas 78945 (979) 968-8701 - cityoflg.org
CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS
6 p.m. on the second and fourth Mondays of each month 155 E Colorado Street - Council Chambers
CITY COUNCIL
Mayor Jan Dockery
Councilmember Ward 1 Katie Gross
Mayor Pro Tem Ward 1 Kathy Weishuhn
Councilmember Ward 2 Ken Taylor
Councilmember Ward 2 Violet Zbranek
Councilmember Ward 3 Bonnie Busch
Councilmember Ward 3 Kimberly Newton
Councilmember Ward 4 Bryan Kerr
Councilmember Ward 4 Arthur Bosque
City Manager Jack Thompson / Assistant City Manager Frank Menefee
The City of La Grange conducts an officers’ election on the first Saturday in May of each year. A mayor and eight council members are elected for staggered two-year terms. Elections are held in the City Council Chambers, 155 E. Colorado.
LA GRANGE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
220 W. Colorado St., La Grange, TX 78945 - 979-968-5756 - chamber@lagrangetx.org lagrangetx.org
Worship With Us!
EVERYONE IS WELCOME AT ALL OF THESE AREA CHURCHES
CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCH
650 Ellinger Road
979-966-2670
• Sunday 11am
CROSSPOINT COMMUNITY CHURCH
1010 Von Minden Road
979-968-5953
• Sunday 8:30am, 9:50am and 11:15am
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF LA GRANGE
5000 Hwy 71 West
979-242-5000
• Sunday 10:30am
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
205 South Franklin Street
979-968-9424
• Sunday 10:30am
GOSPEL LIGHTHOUSE ASSEMBLY OF GOD
144 South College Street
979-968-5950
• Sunday 11am
LA GRANGE CHURCH OF CHRIST
646 East Highway 71 979-968-5676
• Sunday 10am
MOUNT CALVARY LUTHERAN CHURCH (bottom photo)
800 North Franklin Street
979-968-3938
• Sunday 9am
NEW BETHEL MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH
3240 Loehr Road
979-247-4262
• Sunday 11am
NEW LIFE METHODIST CHURCH
1215 North Von Minden Street
979-968-8323
• Sunday 9am and 11:10am
QUEEN OF THE HOLY ROSARY CATHOLIC CHURCH (HOSTYN)
936 FM 2436 (Parish Hall) 979-247-4441
• Saturday 5pm
• Sunday 8am
SACRED HEART CATHOLIC CHURCH (middle photo)
539 East Pearl Street 979-968-3430
• Tuesday and Wednesday 6:30pm
• Thursday and Friday 8:30am
• Saturday 5pm
• Sunday 9am, Spanish 11:30am
ST. JAMES EPISCOPAL CHURCH
156 North Monroe Street 979-968-3910
• Sunday 8am and 10:30am
ST. JOHN LUTHERAN CHURCH (RUTERSVILLE)
5743 Highway 159 979-249-3155
• Sunday 10am
ST. MICHAEL’S LUTHERAN CHURCH
700 Frio Street, Winchester 979-242-3444
• Sunday 9am
ST. PAUL EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH
427 South Washington Street 979-968-5657
• Sunday 9am
STS. PETER AND PAUL CATHOLIC CHURCH (PLUM)
126 Plum Church Road 979-247-4441
• Sunday 10am
THE REMNANT CHURCH
2010 North Von Minden Road 979-968-5065
• Sunday 10am
CHURCH LISTINGS
Timeless Texas Classics
Timeless Texas Classics, a division of Thunderbird Southwest, is a full-service Ford and Thunderbird classic car facility located just east of La Grange at 4635 East State Highway 71. They feature restoration projects, mechanical services and consignment services, as well as sales, parts and appraisals on 1949-1967 Fords and 1955-1979 Thunderbirds.
Take a short five mile drive down Highway 71 and feel like you’ve cruised back in time to the good ol’ days. You can’t pass the place without noticing it … the vividly painted classics shine brightly, luring you into the 6,000 square foot showroom.
Decorated in the style of the 1950s, the classic showroom was created to present and sell the large number of classic and special interest vehicles. To enhance the outside show area, fifteen more acres were purchased next to the showroom giving them 1200+ feet of display area. Thunderbirds Southwest has been parting out Thunderbirds for 20 years and has accumulated parts from over 275 vehicles. Visit Timless Texas Classics online at www. thunderbirdsouthwest.com.
NEARBY CLASSIC CAR FACILITY OFFERS A STROLL INTO THE PAST
Above, a 1964 Ford Thunderbird Landau Coupe. Left, th tail fin and taillight details of a red 1956 Ford Thunderbird Convertible classic car.
