Tuesday, February 27, 2007

Dig into Dough or Churn Butter at Pioneer Musuem's Spring Break


Kids can dig into dough or churn butter as part of the educational activities planned during Spring Break week at the Pioneer Museum in Fredericksburg on March 13 through 17, 2007.

From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday through Saturday, demonstrators will be on hand at various times showing how pioneers lived. In past years, kids (and their parents) have helped spin wool, shear a sheep, milk a goat, make rope, shell corn, make biscuits, and even throw knives at playing cards. Activities confirmed so far for this year include blacksmithing, handworking, breadmaking, and ropemaking.

Cowboy poet Lee Haile will spin his tall tales, western poetry and songs. Representatives of the Coushatta and Lakota Sioux will also be on hand to share Native American artifacts and legends.

Visitors of all ages are invited to make a stop at the Pioneer Museum part of their Fredericksburg spring break getaway. The Hill Country town is well known for its German heritage, shopping, dining, and architecture. The Pioneer Museum is located right on Main Street, at 309 West Main. Parking is free.

During Spring Break, all the museum's regular exhibits and buildings will be open for viewing. Visitors can walk through one of the first stores in Fredericksburg, a smokehouse, blacksmith shop, and an original Sunday House. In the Museum Store, shoppers can find a collection of books on the area's history, along with old-fashioned games, toys and curios reminiscent of the era.

Admission to Spring Break activities is the regular Pioneer Museum fee of $4 for adults; age 11 and under free.

The exact schedule of the pioneer demonstrators will vary day by day. The public is invited to call ahead to get more details of each day’s events. Learn more by calling 830-997-2835, by emailing pioneermuseum@pioneermuseum.com, or by visiting www.pioneermuseum.com.




Friday, February 16, 2007

Bandera Revelries & Reveries

by Patricia Moore

February Happenings
The Annual Chamber Gala kicks off February happenings on the 3rd at the
Cabaret. It's the time of year to honor some folks that have done so much
to help out our area. Brick's on the river is catering and our very own
McKay Brothers are providing the entertainment. Cowboy Mardi Gras is the
weekend of the 10th. So far I know that Ridin'High with Jesse Stuart will
be at the 11th Street Cowboy Bar and James is hosting a gumbo cookoff.
There will also be a cookoff over at Pioneer RV Resort for bbq and chili to
help put the Frontier time Museum...all you cookers out there can get a jump
on the cookoff season by coming on over and honing your skills.and all us
tasters can walk around the block and taste away. The same evening the
Silver Sage holds its ever-popular Annual Sweetheart Dinner and Dance at the
Farm Country Club....looks like this will be a weekend filled with fun of
all kinds. For everyone that has ever dreaming of owning a Hummer, they
won't want to miss the Bandera Sports Complex Benefit on the 24th...dinner,
dance and a chance at a Hummer.

March Look Ahead
The Wild Hog Explosion takes place the weekend of the17th. In addition to
the wild hog catch on Saturday, there'll be the Wild Hog All Bike Rally for
those that love their high horsepower two-wheelers and even a bicycle rodeo
for the kids on Saturday morning in the arena at Mansfield Park. If you are
in town any Friday evening in March you can eat some of the best-fried
catfish anywhere at the Knights of Columbus Lenten Fish Fry. Also during
March Lakehills United Methodist Church hosts its Annual fish Fry and More
on the 24th. I'm sure most of you motorcycle enthusiasts already know that
Biker Rallies of Texas will be bringing in Thunder in the Hills on the 31st.

Tidbits
A sad note to start with...quite a few of you know and love El Jacalito's
Mexican food...Margarita, Mamma Jacalito, lost her bout with cancer just
before Christmas. It is always sad to loose a beloved Bandera
person...However, El Jacalito is still going on with the family running it
and Richard and his wife have opened the Java Hut in Pipe Creek and serve
some of the same great menu items...Speaking of Pipe Creek eateries, the
Blue Plate Café located behind Country Accents antiques is now open again
Friday through Monday with old time favorite lunch specials such as fried
chicken, pot roast, pepper steak, and lasagna along with soups, sandwiches
and homemade desserts. Over in the Tarpley area, Nalene let us know that
the Food Channel is coming to film sometime in February at Mac And
Ernie's...more eatery news...the restaurant and bar in Bandera Lodge should
be opening again soon and there is work on the building that housed Meat
Works. Across the street in Old Town Square there is now a deli featuring
bbq ribs, pizza and more. Fool Moon is now open on Mondays and the Grotto
is getting a new sign...I'd say for a town of 957 folks we have some of the
best eateries around and maybe the most per capita of anywhere 'cause I
didn't mention but a small portion of them. I'm sure hoping that we get the
rain we need this winter so we can have a good year of summer floating on
the Media River...but if we don't the Flying L has broken ground on their
water park and it should be ready to go by the summer.

Happy Trails for Now
Hope to see you our way soon. In the mean time, if we can help, give us a
call at 800-364-3833 or send us an email at
cowpoke@banderacowboycapital.com.

Thursday, February 15, 2007

On the Road


by Kathleen Hudson
Executive Director, Texas Heritage Music Foundation


January took me to Fredericksburg for the annual Windows On Texas show produced by KFAN Rebel Radio. I enjoyed many of the music venues, but the panels really called to me. Of course, being held at exquisite venues like Bell Mountain Tasting Room and August E’s restaurant, both on Highway 290 East of town, were part of the allure. Good food, wine and interesting conversation. I’ll be back to August E’s for my next special meal. That filet hamburger I had did the job on a cold and rainy Saturday morning. That evening I started at Hondo’s and moved to Silver Creek on Main for a songwriter’s circle. I ended up at Auslander listening to one of my all-time favorites, Gary Michael Jones.

I heard Gary first when I moved to Kerrville over twenty years ago. When he played “Hard To Hold,” friends thought he had written that song about me. I found out that Mary, his wife, was also the writer of most of his songs, including that one. And she can write. This team deserves some feature stories in Texas music magazines. Her writing talent and his burgeoning performance talent, aided and abetted by Levi “Eric Clapton” Dar (Fredericksburg) on lead guitar, are a team you can’t ignore. Brother Tim Jones, who bought Gary his first guitar years ago, is now his business manager and agent. We, the THMF, are excited to showcase Gary every chance we get, including the September 28 tribute to Jimmie Rodgers for our 20th anniversary. Yes, I started the THMF (http://www.texasheritagemusic.org/) in 1987, about two years after I moved to Kerrville and heard Gary sing around a campfire.

January 29 I attended the Monday night Blues Jam at Silver Creek on Main in Fredericksburg. Other than being a bit small for a popular gathering like this, the venue is perfect. I know the outdoor patio will be hopping this spring. Graham Warwick hosted the show, with an array of blues performers playing, including Johnny Cockerell from the SA Blues Society. Check out this jam, held each Monday night from 6-10 p.m. I love the early start.

Will Owen Gage, a young man I started watching many years ago, brought his intense commitment and love of music to the group, reminding me of many a Stevie Ray Vaughan show I’ve seen. Jeff Ballard joined in on “cajon,” a box drum. Greg, The Revelators, and Graham sat center, while the others arched around the walls in this small room. Dave Hohmann played sax, even requesting “Born Under a Band Sign” so he could add a horn lead to the song. Will sang it and took guitar leads. “Intense” does not quite capture the mood, and I loved it. The blues was my doorway into music. My visit to the Memphis Blues Awards in 1986 ignited a fire in my blood that has not cooled down at all. Graham also has a newsletter for ardent fans. I am one!

My Thursday nights have been at the Back Porch Cantina in Kerrville. This jam, hosted by Sol Patch, is a warm and loving gathering of local musicians, in the spirit of the gatherings hosted by the late Cindy Terry of Kerrville at The Downtowner. That is where my sister first discovered the intimate joy possible when people gather to sing songs and play music. She often got me up in the aisle dancing.

Ahead in February is the first coffeehouse at Schreiner University honoring Black History Month on Wednesday, February 7, 7-9 p.m., at the Schreiner Corner Pocket Snack Bar in the Cailloux Center on campus. The Greg Griffith Blues Band will perform, along with Brandon Burke, a Schreiner student who will rap. Jessica Lott and Keshawna will perform a hip-hop dance exhibition. Yes, I’m enjoying my new life with Jessica, my 14 year-old granddaughter living with me now! I listen to rap and hip-hop on our morning drive to town each day, appreciating the poetry and rhythm. Sometimes she says, “Listen, Grandmother, you’ll like the message of this one!” She knows when to bypass a song as well. I do listen to words. And the drummer hidden deep inside me loves the rhythm.

Derek Horton will be playing his classy, interesting, tasty music at the Back Porch on February 23. Accompanied by Graham on cello and a drummer, he sings original songs that deserve the audience that also likes Leonard Cohen, Dave Matthews, Terry Allen and Rickie Lee Jones. Imagine that!

I must announce two talks at the Kerrville Unity Church given by Hal Robinson. February 4 at 2:00 p.m. he talks on “A Native American Perspective on Peace,” and Monday, February 5, at 7:00 p.m. he talks on “Setting Intention.” The THMF uses him to provide programming on Native American perspective with a drum circle. He will visit my Schreiner children’s literature class in February and take stories and drumming to Pathways, a charter school for kids at risk. Yes, this is a reminder that music in all its forms: rhythm and chanting, stories and songs, has the capacity to transform the direction of any human being at any place in life.

Some other announcements: Go to Bluebonnetblues.com for details on a wonderful festival March 31-April 1 in Marble Falls. I attended last year and was not disappointed. Of course, blues is my favorite so I’m a bit biased.

Since 2007 is the 20th anniversary for the THMF, I have asked musicians hosting jams at several towns in the Hill Country to dedicate a night to our membership drive. I know Sol Patch is going to do this at the Back Porch. I am awaiting other confirmations to announce. Keep tuned to this website and calendar. KRVL Revolution FM is sponsoring the THMF Coffehouse Series at Schreiner, and March 7 features Carolyn Wonderland (Austin) and Melissa Weatherly from Sol Patch, honoring Women’s Heritage Month.

April 4 we have a spoken word show with a slam poetry contest. Thom “The World” Poet is our featured guest, the founder of the International Poetry Festival in Austin in April.

On an even more personal note, I picked up my galley proofs for my book on women in Texas music on Tuesday, January 30, for one last look before University of Texas Press begins the final design. September is the date of publication. Our Living History Day is September 28. Put that on your calendar now and plan a trip to the Hill Country. Yes, it is a Friday to teachers can bring classes as well. I’m also teaching in September so I look forward to a full month of activity. Our coffeehouse is usually the first Wednesday of each month.

In February and in April I head to Pop Culture Conferences to BE Belle Starr, talking about the outlaw archetype in life and literature. My research assistant and English major at Schreiner University, Stephanie Gaines, will BE Brunhilde, talking about the warrior archetype. We’ll also be reading those galley proofs on my collection of interviews with some real warrior women in Texas women….and a few outlaws. I’ll also be presenting a workshop on the Power of Stories in our Lives at the first International Womenspeak 2007 held March 9-11 in San Antonio. See http://www.womenspeak2007.com/ for details. Paula D’Arcy is founder, writer, speaker and coordinator for this event. I am proud to be part of it.

March is South by Southwest in Austin, Texas. No better event in the country for mixing and matching the music scene. Glad it occurs during my spring break so I can attend. Rick Starr at KFAN told me that the Americana Party is Wednesday night, featuring an evening with non other than Steve Earle, one of my favorite mavericks and songwriters! Be sure and check out http://www.rebelradio.com/ for more news on the Hill Country music scene. And Texas Music Magazine in Austin is the slick magazine that turns the music scene into a work of art thanks to Richard Skanse and founder/publisher Stewart Ramser. They will be speaking at Schreiner University sometime this spring. Stay tuned for the date.

Another date for your calendar is April 19 when we have our annual Texas Writers Conference at Schreiner. This year, Tim Hazell is the visiting writer/artist. Originally from Sweden, now from San Miguel de Allende, he will be talking about the role of art in our culture, and sharing his new book of poetry and art. He’s brilliant and has been part of my May travel course in San Miguel, one that I teach for Schreiner there as an interdisciplinary experience with writing, art and travel. Tim always lectures to us in the intimate setting of his living room or on his roof terrace.

Lots to do in the Texas Hill Country. The calendar at http://www.the-hill-country-calendar.com/, published by hill-country-visitor.com is the most complete, even though music magazines like Hill Country Happenings try to stay on top of schedules. M.Y.T.H. does not pretend to cover schedules, rather Bob Gray, publisher and editor, is committed to giving us good stories written by people who care. I am proud to say the THMF newsletter is included each month, and the February issue has our scholarship program as the front page, along with an announcement of our 20th anniversary!

News just in late Jan. 31. Tommy Morrell, steel guitar player, died on Monday, Jan. 29. Bert Winston, Hunt, Texas, has produced about 15 cd’s of Western Swing featuring Tommy, and the loss will be felt throughout the Hill Country. http://www.westernswing.com/ has details on the music.. Ils sont partis and down the road.

On The Roadby Kathleen Hudson, Ph.D.



Sunday, February 11, 2007

Step Back in Time With a Visit to The Cotton Gin Restaurant and Bed and Breakfast Establishment



Just outside the city of Fredericksburg in a secluded little corner of the Hill Country is a haven known as the Cotton Gin. Surrounded by a rustic style wooden fence, the complex may have the appearance of a turn of the century village, but actually housed within the complex is an upscale restaurant, seven authentic log cabins serving as bed and breakfast rooms and several outer buildings completing the ambiance.

Overnight guests and restaurant diners are invited to take a stroll through the compound during their stay. Listen to the soothing sounds of a well designed water garden, make a wish in the wishing well or get a glimpse of the numerous native herbs and perennials growing within the area. An 1860’s blacksmith shop and a turn of the century tank house and windmill are sites that guests will not want to miss.

Experience history at its’ best as you stay in one of the bed and breakfast log cabins. All of the circa mid to late 1800’s cabins were originally located in Kentucky and Tennessee. As a way to preserve history and a life before our time, the cabins were dismantled, moved across country to the Cotton Gin site in Fredericksburg and then rebuilt. Named for important rivers in Texas, the cabins are a perfect place to relax and rejuvenate. The Pecos Cabin is handicapped accessible and ADA approved. The 1879 single story cabin was located in Tennessee. The Guadalupe Cabin is an 1890 story and a half structure from Kentucky with a loft bedroom overlooking a living room and a fireplace. The Red River cabin is an 1854 pre-Civil War dog trot complex from Kentucky. Its’ highlights include a shared sitting porch and is perfect for two couples traveling together. The Rio Grande is an 1888 single story cabin from Kentucky. The Llano is also a single story cabin from Kentucky. And finally, the Pedernales is an 1887 single story cabin from Tennessee.

Even though the cabins have a rustic feel, modern conveniences are sure to make your stay a pleasant one. Jacuzzi baths with showers, microwave ovens, refrigerators, coffeemakers, Dish Television, VCR’s and central heat and air can be found in each cabin. Additionally, all cabins have a queen size sleeper sofa, one queen size bed, a rock wood burning fireplace, hardwood floors and vintage antiques. Each cabin has a sitting porch with rocking chairs where guests can relax and breathe in the scent of the fresh country air surrounding the property. A continental breakfast is served with each night’s stay. Sorry no pets, children or smoking is allowed. A two night minimum stay is required on all weekends.

Owner of the business, Ross Burtwell, also serves as the executive chef in the fine restaurant. Exceptional food and service can be found at The Cotton Gin, which specializes in Hill Country cuisine. Begin your meal with an appealing appetizer such as pecan crusted crab cakes or warm lobster cocktail. The main course could include a dish such as pan fried trout , crispy glazed duck breast with roasted raspberry glaze or of course one of their famous steaks. End the meal with a dessert such as the warm blueberry bread pudding, Kahlua creme brulee or their own unique smashed granny smith apple pie topped with cinnamon ice cream. A full service bar and excellent wine list are always available. The ambiance of the restaurant is just as wonderful as the food. A crackling fire in the large fireplace is an ideal way to escape the cold winter air.

If you need a place to host a private party or reception, look no further. The Cotton Gin has an upstairs dining loft that will hold up to 30 people. It can be booked for special occasions.

A stay at the establishment would not be complete without a drive through the scenic area of Fredericksburg, known for its’ antique and specialty shops, German heritage and landscape like no other. The town is located just minutes away from the Cotton Gin.

Whether you choose to stay overnight or dine in the restaurant, a visit to The Cotton Gin will definitely be a relaxing way to get away from it all while experiencing a taste of history. Make memories now that you will cherish the rest of your life with a visit to a place where modern conveniences blend with the history of the Hill Country.

Contact:

Name: Ross Burtwell
Company: The Cotton Gin
Address: 2805 South Highway 16
City, Zip: Fredericksburg, 78624
Phone: (830) 990-5734
Fax: (830) 990-0895
Website: www.cottonginrestaurant.com