Wednesday, December 10, 2008


SALON INFUSION

Salon and Day Spa

1433 S. Main St.

Boerne, TX 78006

(830) 816-5354 * saloninfusion.com

December Spotlight – ICICLE QUEEN (aka Chocolate Mint)

    Enjoy a scrumptious Icicle Queen Chocolate Mint or Sugar Cookie Scrub with your Spa Pedicure!

Your Christmas Headquarters!

  • Keep your wish list on file or see what someone else has on theirs!
  • We will wrap any gift purchased at Salon Infusion for $4.99.
  • Salon Infusion Gift Cards available in any denomination desired.
  • Spa parties available…Call for details
  • Glass Creations – Crosses, Sushi Sets, Platters, Pendants
  • Paul Mitchell – Ion Blow Dryers, Flat Irons, Brushes, Gift Packs
  • Glass Rings, Earrings, Necklaces, Bracelets
  • Note Cards, Matted Prints
  • Salon Infusion Gift Cards (Ooops…Did we already say that?!)

Mention this E-news for our DECEMBER SPECIAL: Signature Facial, Exclusive Pedicure and Heated Stone 90 Minute Massage for $188 ($235 value).

Salon Infusion www.saloninfusion.com

Monday, November 24, 2008

Johnson City Lights Spectacular!

For 2008, opening weekend is Friday & Saturday, November 28 & 29 - Johnson City, Texas comes vibrantly alive during this event which includes a collection of fun activities for the young and not-so-young. The hallmark of this event is the opening night (Friday after Thanksgiving) lighting of the Blanco County Courthouse in Johnson City with 100,000+ white lights to celebrate the holiday season (don't worry, no nails or screws are used to secure the lights on this beautiful Courthouse building.) The entire Courthouse is draped in lights, from the ground to the special effects lighting of the dome in a red color. Surrounding trees are lit with complementary red lights, producing a magnificent spectacle.

Even the inside of the Courthouse is decorated with a traditional Christmas tree and lots of hallway greenery and decorations. At a booth inside the Courthouse the Johnson City Garden Club stays open until 9 pm on Saturday and Sunday, and sells their own year-long hand-crafted ornaments, decorations and gifts, with proceeds to support Lights Spectacular. Holiday music plays in the Courthouse yard area and is the central station for carriage rides.

Nearby, the local Pedernales Electric Co-op headquarters won't be outdone. An entire block of magnificent old oak trees strung with 1 million white lights covering the entire canopy of each tree plus white trunks, along with the stately two story PEC building, are simply brilliant. Nearby trees are in other complementary colors, creating another visual armada the likes of which I have never seen.

The small but quaint downtown Johnson City Memorial Park (about a half block area on Main Street) is stuffed with the most colorful lighted trees, figures, and presentations that are eye-catching in their own right, as they sparkle in a variety of decorative and vibrant colors.
Almost every business building and many homes participate in the lighting adventure, with prizes for the best productions (application forms available at the two banks and Chamber Visitor Center office, with judging this year on December 13).

The combination of the Courthouse, the PEC block, the City Park, and the surrounding decorated stores and homes, truly make Johnson City a visual feast and a site to behold and remember.

Travelers by the tour bus load visit every evening to soak in the lighting bonanza. Horse drawn carriages, with their own holiday lighting, provide a romantic experience of seeing all the sights up close and at a comfortable pace with many stops and photo opportunities. The weather has been cool and clear typically this time of year, ideal for this terrific outdoor venue.
In the downtown district where the Courthouse is located, local merchants are open for brisk days of holiday business. In the evenings, particularly on the weekends, there is entertainment, food and beverages at the Silver K , Buddys at the Feed Mill and the Friendly Bar Bistro.

Opening night (the Friday following Thanksgiving) starts at 5:30 pm when the many locals, guests and visitors gather at the historic downtown Courthouse Square and are treated to Christmas carols from a local choir. Then begins the ceremonial Lights Spectacular featured event, complete with a crowd based countdown, that ends with flipping the light switch at 6:30 pm to turn on the holiday lights at the Courthouse. Santa will be there, as well as fireworks.
The next evening, Saturday night, the events beginning about 5:30 pm at the lighted Courthouse Square, where you are treated to a special performance of the "Clickety Cloggers," a Hill Country group, who in colorful costume tap dance to holiday music to the delight of the crowd. This is followed by a holiday parade ("Lighted Hooves & Wheels") beginning at about 6:30 pm. You will see and hear an impressive and eclectic variety of floats and entries, with judges choosing the winners of prizes in each category.

During the opening weekend evenings, local social clubs and non-profit organizations operate special holiday food booths in the "Food Court" area on the Courthouse square in the JC Bank alley. Traditional offerings at the booths include funnel cake, hamburgers, sausage on a stick, corn on the cob, fajitas, and my favorite, chili cheese fries (yummy!). This is a fund raising opportunity for local organizations (from Little League to Lions) to support their activities during the year. They start opening around 5 pm and make a great place to stop for an alternative dinner.

The Methodist Church produces their highly acclaimed Blanco County Living Nativity Christmas pageant every half hour on the first two weekends of December, Friday and Saturday nights beginning at 6:30 pm. This pageant, nearly 50 years old, is a major attraction on the Hill Country Regional Christmas Lighting Trail, drawing people by the busload from the big cities. Between performances, free refreshments are served inside, where more than 100 nativity sets from around the world are on display. Bleacher seating. Children are welcome to pet the animals after each show.

Local regulations allow public consumption of adult beverages, and the Bistro offers holiday wine and draft beer for this purpose. Many other booths are operated by local groups to sell club made holiday decorations, crafts, and scrumptious delectables from fudge to cookies.

At about 6:30 pm on opening Friday and Saturday, Santa makes his appearance as well and is clearly the favorite of the smaller folks. See him in the Memorial City Park, and have the kids ready with their wish lists. The 4-H club takes pictures and sponsors Santa as their fundraiser.
The lights are on every evening from 5:30 pm (except opening night) to midnight, from the opening Friday night until January 1.

The second weekend is nearly as festive, with self-paced touring, carriage rides, and many other nearby activities during the period. Some of these include a special "Christmas at the LBJ Boyhood Home" in downtown Johnson City, provided by the National Park Service; the "Winter Wonderland Light Display" just north of Johnson City on Hwy 281 North; the "Texas Wine Trail" with local participant Texas Hills Vineyard, various pageants and choir presentations; and various businesses offering open house events. The LBJ Boyhood home will be lamp-lit on weekends. The LBJ National Historical Park Visitors Center will be open. Lots to do, fun for all!
Tax money is not used to fund this event. While a donation box at the Courthouse collects some money to cover expenses, most of the production is paid for by old fashioned volunteer labor and material donations. Hotel occupancy fees also help fund this event.

The 2008 edition of this event marks the 19th year of this now internationally known and growing extravaganza. What started in 1990 as a "lets decorate the Courthouse" has become a hallmark event and literally a brilliant memory for most who are fortunate enough to visit Johnson City during this period. There is so much holiday spirit here that even the local phone company building is beautifully lit up!

Local resident and volunteer Norma Honeycutt of Johnson City just retired as the headmaster of this event after producing it for 18 years, and she is the founder as well. My hat is off to her and her stable of directors and volunteers who perform the many tasks required to make this such a successful event.

Rhonda Stell is the new volunteer LS Captain. Interested folks who also want to volunteer may contact Rhonda to sign up. A wide variety of skills are needed, from electricians, sound system specialists, traffic directors, parade route managers, and just a lot of hands for all those lights.

Overall, this is truly a spectacular and magical event. "Ohhs," "ahhs," and "wows" are the vernacular of the sightseers during their visits. Holiday spirit, public pride and small town creativity at its best. Not to be missed! What is the cost, you ask? Absolutely free for this spirited event (except optional purchases from the booths and carriage rides.) A non-profit, home spun event. Small town America, you have got to love it. Unbelievable! Even the kids love it and are able to run free in a laid-back, small town ambiance.

According to Honeycutt, the origins of this event spurred the creation of the Texas Hill Country Regional Christmas Lighting Trail many years ago, with Dripping Springs, Marble Falls, Boerne, Burnet, Goldthwaite, Llano, New Braunfels, Round Mountain, Wimberley and Fredericksburg now also participating in this regional group (see www.tex-fest.com/regional for more details and map). Tour buses and visiting motorists from cities far away come to this annual gala, and tour from town to town along the Trail over a six week period. I have noticed many visitors changing their plans and staying a few days in Johnson City to enjoy the small town atmosphere. Book early if you can at in-town and nearby B&B options. Local businesses enjoy a significant spike in sales volume and depend on it to carry them through the lean winter months.

by George Cofran
Copyright, November, 2008.

Thursday, November 20, 2008

Potluck Dinner, Nov. 22nd/Thanksgiving Dinner Nov. 27th

Miller Creek RV Resort invites you to a Potluck Dinner with music from WST Bluegrass band. The event will take place on November 22nd from 6:30 pm - 9 pm. Please bring a covered dish to share and come enjoy the fun.

And don't forget our Thanksgiving Dinner, November 27th at 2 pm. Miller Creek will provide the turkeys - just bring along a side dish to share and come join us!


For more information, contact Miller Creek RV Resort at www.millercreekrvresort.com.

Christmas at the Theater

Tickets go on sale Monday for the upcoming Fredericksburg Theater Company production, Christmas At The Theater, a two-act show set to debut Thursday, Dec. 11 and run through Sunday, Dec. 14.

Performances will be held at 7:30 p.m. each night, with the exception of a Sunday matinee performance at 2 p.m.

Patrons may purchase tickets, which cost $20 for adults and $5.50 for children, at the FTC box office, located at 306 East Austin Street, or online at www.fredericksburgtheater.org

Tickets will also be available at the FTC’s booth during Weihnachten (Dec. 5-7).

Individuals interested in Christmas At The Theater as well as the Gillespie County Historical Society’s Holiday Home Tour can purchase a combination ticket good for entry to the home tour and the Dec. 13 FTC performance at 7:30 p.m.

Combination tickets will also be available on Monday at www.fredericksburgtheater.org for $45.

The first act of the program will feature a musical variety show, including performances by the Hill Country Youth Choir, dancers from Ms. Rhonda School of Dance, an adult choir and songs from Hoover.

During the second act, attendees will be able to see Gift of the Magi, an original musical written by Hoover that follows the O. Henry classic short story.

Friday, November 7, 2008

Guests at Tannenbaum Ball to enjoy new German Christmas Market



Guests at this year's Tannenbaum Ball in Fredericksburg can shop for distinct and whimsical gifts at the new German Christmas Market, part of the Gillespie County Historical Society's Preservation Weekend, held Dec 12 and 13, 2008.

The Society hosts the Tannenbaum Ball on Friday, December 12, from 7:00-11:30 pm at Pioneer Pavilion, Lady Bird Johnson Park, Hwy 16 South of Fredericksburg. This year's theme is "Winter Wonderland," with entertainment by singer Linda Petty. Guests will enjoy cocktails and reserved dinner seating. The new German Christmas Market will help guests find new and interesting gifts, according to Linder Langerhans, Auction Committee Chair.

"Our new Christmas Market is another way for the public to support the Society in a fun way," Langerhans said. "These items are easy to pick up and make great Christmas gifts."

Committee members sought out unique items not available locally and that reflect playful themes. For example, Poof Fairies are 8" tall, frilly creations that sport whimsical messages such as "Poof - the kids are asleep" and "Poof - Dinner is ready." Varsity China features ceramic plates adorned with logos from major universities in Texas. Other gift items include Knobstoppers - vintage wine bottle toppers, and San Francisco music boxes.

Shoppers can also bid on their favorite live and silent auction items. Top offerings include a Houston Grand Opera Package, Santa Fe Retreat, Wine Tasting Party, Texas Bird Hunt, and a Murder Mystery Dinner.

"This wonderful event is the Society's major fundraiser for operation of the museum," Langerhans said. "Being there is great fun, with good music and good food."

On Saturday, Dec 13, the public can view eight unique Fredericksburg properties decorated for the season on the Holiday Home Tour. Properties will be open between 1:00 and 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 13, 2008. All are located in and around Fredericksburg.

Tickets for the tour are $25 per person. For an additional $18, visitors can reserve rides on the trolley that shuttles from door to door. Trolley seating is limited, so guests are encouraged to reserve early.

Reservations for the Tannenbaum Ball are $100 per person, and must be made by December 5.

Patrons can order tickets by any of four methods:

By phone - 830-997-2835

By mail - GCHS, 312 West San Antonio Street, Fredericksburg, TX 78624

By email - Vickibeasley@austin.rr.com

In person - Pioneer Museum, Vereins Kirche, Historical Society office, Gastehaus Schmidt, Journey Lane Scrapbooking, Crenwelge Motors (Kerrville)

The Home Tour and Ball are the largest fundraisers for the Gillespie County Historical Society, whose mission is to preserve and tell the story of Fredericksburg’s unique cultural heritage.

Photos: Guests at the Tannenbaum Ball can bid on auction items or shop for Poof Fairies at the new German Christmas Market on Fri, Dec 12, 2008. The Ball and Home Tour are the year's largest fundraisers for the Gillespie County Historical Society in Fredericksburg.

Friday, October 31, 2008

A1 Vacation New Braunfels offers Waterfront Vacation Condos...

A-1 Vacation New Braunfels offers the newest and most elegant waterfront vacation condos, cabins and estates in the New Braunfels area.

Heavenly View at Canyon Lake has 75 feet of waterfront, as the Guadalupe River flows towards New Braunfels we have Villa on the 4th, Cabin on the 4th, Lil Ponderosa, Cabin on the Chute, and Lil Kahuna.

Once in town we have Bougan-Villa & Rose Cottage, dozens of condos on the Comal and Guadalupe downtown and in historic Gruene (NEW!).

As the river leaves New Braunfels, it forms Lakes Dunlap, McQueeney and Placid where we have Betsy's Bungalows, Elm Grove and Barefoot Ridge next to Deep Water Inn with more coming soon!

We can sleep from two to 50+ at one location for small romantic stays or large gatherings! Whether you would like to tube or take your ski boat out, we have the loveliest properties at the best prices. We love Winter Texans and Interim Guests in the winter months. Please visit www.A1vacationnb.com.

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Catch a Fish, Help a Kid - 2nd Annual Big Bass Roundup


Anglers who love fishing for prize money and helping youngsters can do both on Saturday, October 25 at the second annual Big Bass Round-up, a tournament benefitting the Boys and Girls Club of Burnet.

The day-long competition will begin at 6 a.m. on Lake Buchanan, with $2,000 guaranteed prize money for the winning team. Additional cash and prizes will also be awarded for top placements. An entry fee of $100 is required for either one or two-person teams. The team members must fish from the same boat and use artificial lures. An aerated live well is also required. Complete rules are listed on the website at www.bigbassroundup.com.

Only large-mouth, small-mouth and spotted bass will be weighed (no stripers), with a minimum length of 14 inches. The winning team will be based on the combined weight of the best five fish per boat (per team). Weigh-in will be at Canyon of the Eagles Park at 3 p.m., the headquarters hotel for the tourney.

The whole community is supporting this event with First State Bank of Burnet serving as the title sponsor. “The first annual last year brought in 44 teams. With Lake Buchanan’s water level and conditions being optimal this year, and there’s an abundance of fish due to diligent stocking over the past few years, we’re expecting a lot more anglers for this tournament,” said Travis Warren, the tournament director who is well-known in the area both as a competitive fisherman and as a tournament director. “We’ve got a great way for people to have fun fishing, help kids, and spend some time in our part of the state while the weather is great for fishing.”

Special hotel rates for anglers and their families are available at tournament headquarters, Canyon of the Eagles Lodge and Nature Park 512-334-2070. Other lodging options in Burnet County are listed at www.visitburnetcounty.org.

“Fishermen and women will understand that with Travis Warren as our tournament director, we’re going to have a top-notch tournament,” says Tournament Chair, Russell Graeter. “He has a stellar reputation in the tournament world and has fished competitively for 35 years.”

Graeter also encourages anyone interested in sponsoring the event to please contact him at 512-715-2611. All donations are tax-deductible and will be used to directly assist in the operation of the Boys & Girls Club of Burnet.

For more information on entering the tournament please contact Travis Warren at 512-423-4473. Details are also available at the website at www.bigbassroundup.com .

Monday, September 22, 2008

Jellystone Park to Host Noah’s Ark Fall Festival Weekends


September 22, 2008 – Families are invited to the Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park in Canyon Lake, Texas as they celebrate the fall season with a Noah’s Ark-themed festival. The weekends of October 3-5 and 10-12 are packed with interactive activities including pony rides and a petting zoo featuring a rare 30 inch cow.

Besides the animals, there will be a costume contest, campsite decorating contest, face-painting, crafts, candy hunts and games. “Jellystone Park is a place where families enjoy spending time together and our Fall Festival is a great non-scary alternative to typical Halloween events,” comments Larry Jones, owner.

The Camp-Resort, conveniently located between Austin and San Antonio, offers tent sites, RV sites and cabins. Plus, guests get full access to the Camp-Resort’s many amenities including an indoor and outdoor pool, volleyball court, and playground. You could also choose to explore the area with easy access to Guadalupe and Comal Rivers, Canyon Lake, Schlitterbahn, Natural Bridge Caverns, and all the other great hill country area attractions.

Come enjoy a weekend of fun and relaxation with your family. Yogi Bear looks forward to seeing you! For more information and to make a reservation, visit www.jellystonehillcountry.com or call 877-964-3731.

Final Roots Concert Features Musical First


For the final 2008 Roots Music concert at the Pioneer Museum in Fredericksburg on Saturday, Sept 27, three bands push Irish music into a new light, using influences from rock, African, Caribbean, and Cajun music to create a new "world" style.

Beth Patterson is the leading instrumentalist on the Irish harp known as the bouzoukis. She pulls from eclectic influences as far-ranging as Cajun and Caribbean, African and Greek.

Poor Man’s Fortune keeps crowds hopping with a whirlwind take on traditional folk songs, using instruments from around the world.

Blaggards play "stout" Irish music, performing traditional Irish tunes in a rock and roll style that shows off the roots of familiar tunes.

In the afternoon from 2 to 5 pm, musicians of all ability levels are invited to join the free acoustic jam under the trees.

For the first time, the Longhorn Street Cafe will handle the meal, with a menu of Pork Loin stuffed with bacon, mozzarella and rosemary, mashed potatoes and green beans; or Irish Stew served with potato bread; or Corned Beef and Cabbage. Dessert is Apple Oatmeal Crisp with Irish Whiskey Cream. Meal with dessert is $9, and will be served from 5:30 pm until the concert ends, along with beer, wine, soft drinks, and water.

Gates open at 5 p.m. Admission is $10, with tickets sold at the gate. Visitors can receive a $2 discount by printing out the web page at www.pioneermuseum.com. Students age 17 and younger are free. Guests are welcome to bring in lawn chair.

The Pioneer Museum is located at 309 West Main Street in Fredericksburg.

This is the final concert in the 2008 series. Proceeds support the mission of the Gillespie County Historical Society. More information is available by calling 830-997-2835.his is the final concert in the 2008 series. Proceeds support the mission of the Gillespie County Historical Society. More information is available by calling 830-997-2835.

Photo: Leading Irish instrumentalist Beth Patterson makes her first Fredericksburg appearance this weekend as part of the Celtic themed Roots Music concert at the Pioneer Museum on Sat, Sept 27.

Sunday, September 14, 2008

Blanco County Sesquicentennial Celebration

Join your neighbors at the grand slam event of our Blanco County 150 Year Sesquicentennial Celebration!

This Sesquicentennial Celebration will be held appropriately at the Blanco County Courthouse in Johnson City, on Saturday, September 20th, beginning at 10am.

Don't miss the all-star line-up of outstanding pageantry and family fun activities, including at noon the reenactment of the founding of Blanco County 150 years ago.

Live music will entertain you from 1p-7p (one band will be polka/country and the other Austin Bluegrass), all complementary. Bring your chairs & coolers. Family members of all ages will enjoy this special event.

Hang on to your hats, as we will have: Armadillo Races, Hill Country Lawn Washers, Cow Chip Shuffleboard and Quick-draw redneck horseshoes. Plus, Terry's Texas Rangers, civil war camp setup with horses, and black powder demonstrations. We will also have Native American Dancers, demonstration of pow-wow dances, and artifact displays including teepees.

And more! Yes, see a Mountain Man demonstration of knife and tomahawk throwing and hand made art. Catch a glimpse of Saloon Ladies as they appeared at the time.

As a spectacular attractions, In The Spirit of the Old West......... we will be entertained and enlightened by the Brazos Bottom Cow'ographers, with their Wild West Entertainment....."Gunfighter of the Old West". Three shows plus a gun safety program.

Across the street, at the Old Blanco County Supply building (soon to be the Pecan Street Brewery, with space for this event donated by Tim & Patty Elliott) will be displays of artifacts from our cherished county history. Armed with PowerPoint presentations and artifacts, you will see period photos, oral history, hardware, kitchen wares, transportation, clothing, baking items, and much more.

We will have a number of vendor booths including a food court. If you have interest in participating with a booth, contact Sharon Cofran at sharoncofran@cofran.com, Cell: 281-543-4410.

This will be very educational as well as tons of fun! You will not want to miss this event! Come one, come all. We won't have a celebration quite like this for many years, perhaps not in your lifetime!

Don't forget that just down the street will be the "Now & Then" Quilt Show, from 9a-6p at the PEC Auditorium in Johnson City. Hosted by Johnson City Quilt Club. Contact: Charlotte Matthews at 830-868-0940.

For Sesquicentennial event management, contact: Sherry Smith Jenkins, Chair-North Blanco County, Johnson City. Home: 830-868-2683, Cell: 830-868-3243, sljenkins65@gmail.com

Media & Advertising Information: George Cofran, georgecofran@cofran.com, Cell: 281-300-7177

Celebrating 150 years of Friendly. . . Ours Roots run deep in Blanco County.

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

First Annual Texas Great Grape Stomp

First Annual Texas Great Grape Stomp Championship Set

Open Stomp for all ages!

(New Braunfels, TX, September 10, 2008) If you think you have what it takes to stomp the maximum amount of juice from a pile of grapes, then show off your stuff for free at the Texas Great Grape Stomp 2008 Championship.

The event is open to all ages from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday, September 20, 2008 at Vintage Oaks at the Vineyards, 8484 Highway 46 just west of New Braunfels.

Along with public stomps, the grape stomp winners from area Texas wineries will compete for the first time in history to be the Stomping Champion of Texas. Other festivities will include live music from Owen Temple, wine and food tastings from local restaurants and wineries and children’s activities.

“This is a first class, free family event with live music, gourmet fare for area residents, plus a kid’s grape stomp, “said Barry Denton, Sales Manager of Vintage Oaks. “The schedule is jam packed with wine tastings, food, music, community & property tours and the ultimate test for grape stomping champions from Texas.”

Hosted by the San Antonio New World Wine & Food Festival and Vintage Oaks at the Vineyard, a master-planned residential community developed by Bluegreen Communities, the event will be held rain or shine and benefits the Comal Education Foundation.

The Open Stomp for the public begins at noon and takes place every hour with the grand finale between the Great Grape Stomp Champions about 4:30 p.m. If you want to take part in the Open Stomp, you can sign up in advance by visiting www.grapestomp.com. No sign up or RSVP is needed to enjoy the event without getting your feet deep in the grape juice.

“The winners of the all the stomps are determined by the measurement of grape juice produced in 10 minutes and will be recognized after each challenge and will advance to the “Champions Stomp-Off” at the end of the day to determine the Grape Stomp Champions of Texas,” adds Denton.

Some of the wineries participating in the event include Dry Comal Creek, Wolf Creek, Flat Creek and Driftwood. Restaurants signed up to cook and serve include Fork & Spoon, The Gristmill, Canyon Lake Golf Club and Liberty Bistro.

For a complete schedule, updates on participants, wineries and restaurants, plus driving directions visit www.grapestomp.com.

About Bluegreen Communities
NYSE-traded Bluegreen Communities® has proven itself a reliable and experienced developer creating high quality, master-planned communities for over 40 years.
Bluegreen Communities® has developed top-rated communities in some of our nation's most coveted areas. Bluegreen master-planned communities offer the perfect balance of country living and city convenience, with privacy and scenery paramount. Bluegreen has sold over 55,000 master-planned residential and golf community homesites in 32 states and is an award winning green developer. The company's commitment to responsible land use, environmental protection, as well as to the safekeeping and conservation of its communities through reasonable protective covenants ensures that they can be enjoyed by generations to come. Vintage Oaks at the Vineyard features 1- to 2-acre homesites in a beautiful vineyard community. For more information visit www.vintageoakstexas.com or call 800.303.6780.


About The New World Wine & Food Festival
The San Antonio New World Wine & Food Festival, founded in 2000, is a non-profit organization designed to promote everything that San Antonio has to offer as a premier wine and culinary destination. The foods and wines showcased at the Festival represent a myriad of cultures and countries. The Festival features both local and internationally known chefs and winemakers, creating an educational event designed to help introduce residents and visitors alike to the vast diversity of San Antonio’s culinary landscape. For more information on the festival, please visit: www.nwwff.org or call 210.822.9555

Sunday, September 7, 2008

Big Bass Round Up on Lake Buchanan


Date: Saturday, October 25, 2008

Description: 2nd Annual Big Bass Round Up Fishing Tournament on Lake Buchanan, just Northwest of Austin in the beautiful Texas Hill Country. $2,000 guaranteed prize money to the winning team. One or two-man team entry fee is $100. Anglers of all ages will enjoy testing their skills on Lake Buchanan, a big lake with lots of shoreline to fish and varying water levels that are challenging. The lake has also been aggressively stocked in the past few years, making it have one of the best catch rates in the State. Proceeds from this tournament will benefit the local Boys and Girls club – "Catch a fish, help a Kid!"

Contact Information: Tournament Director, Travis Warren, 512-423-4473 or protour.trailers@yahoo.com

Tournament Chairman, Russell Graeter, 512-715-2611 or rgraeter@tstar.net

Website: www.bigbassroundup.com

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

2008 Harvest Classic to benefit Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation


October 24 - 25, 2008 - The Harvest Classic has been recognized by the readers of Ride Texas Magazine. Organized by Central Texas Motorcycle Charities, this gathering of Classic and European motorcycles raises money for Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation. We welcome anyone who enjoys classic motorcycles (from any country!) and scooters and above all, a good time. Our goal at CTMC is to have the Harvest Classic be the best rally you've ever attended and, most importantly, raise as much money as possible for this very worthy charity.

This year’s event includes:

All the fun of Luckenbach, www.luckenbachtexas.com.

Bike Show - On Saturday, the Harvest Classic bike show welcomes Vintage and Classic motorcycles and scooters of all origins. The judging is by popular vote and top finishers in each class win coveted one of a kind handmade glass trophies created and donated by one of the Rally’s Gold sponsors, Blue Moon Glassworks. We award the trophies Saturday evening.

Raffle & Auction for the kids - Make sure you get plenty of raffle tickets which are available throughout the day from Rally staff and volunteers. Tickets are $20 for 5, or $5 each. You must be present at the drawing held Saturday afternoon. On Saturday afternoon, take some time to view the prizes donated by individuals and businesses to help raise money for this wonderful cause

Bike Portraits - Also on Saturday, don't miss your opportunity to get a portrait of you and your ride taken by professional photographer David Omer.

Saturday Dinner & Moto Movie - For the first 500 folks (including all pre-registrants), rally admission fee includes a tasty home-cooked meal. All the food is cooked onsite in the biggest barbecue pit that you have ever seen-everybody loves the food at the Harvest Classic! After dinner, stick around and watch some fine moto-cinema on a 20' by 40' screen, courtesy of Alamo Drafthouse Rolling Roadshow!

Harvest Classic Charity Challenge - Come test your riding skills in the Harvest Classic Charity Challenge Trials Event and raise some money for a good cause! Registration for this fun event is open to all rally participants. However, this is an AMA sanctioned event and all competitors must be AMA members. If you are not currently an AMA member, you will be able to join the AMA at the event. Choose your level of difficulty—there'll be classes for all skill levels from Rookie to Expert (Rookie, Novice, Vintage, Amateur, Intermediate, Advanced & Expert.) Awards will be given to the rider with the lowest score in each class.

Sunday Morning Breakfast Ride - Depart at 9:30am for a short ride to the Alamo Springs Cafe, where we can finish off the rally with a nice hearty feed. Bring your wallet, because this meal is not included in the rally admission fee.

For more information or sponsorship opportunities, please contact info@harvestclassic.org.

2008 Texas Metal Arts Festival


WHAT: "Texas Metal Arts - A Festival at Gruene"
WHEN: Saturday & Sunday, September 13 & 14, 2008 from 10am-5pm both days
WHERE: Gruene Historic District at New Braunfels, Texas
ADMISSION: FREE
From red-hot steel to polished gold, you will find a full range of imagination and craftsmanship in the artwork at the FIFTH ANNUAL TEXAS METAL ARTS - A FESTIVAL AT GRUENE. Artistic Metal Work including fine jewelry, decorative art pieces, sculpture, fun and funky garden pieces and functional objects will be presented at this art show and sale.
  • Forty Texas Artists, including blacksmiths, bronze sculptors, tinsmiths, silversmiths, steel sculptors and goldsmiths will present their creations for your shopping pleasure.

  • Ongoing demonstrations will reveal the wide range of intricate skills, techniques, and tricks used by metalworkers to transform raw metal into Fine Art, Jewelry, Furniture, Folk Art and Functional Everyday Objects. These demonstrations will include metal working processes that have been handed down through the ages, as well as materials and methods from the space age. From sophisticated to practical to radical, it will be a "Red Hot n' Hammered" weekend!


  • Visitors will be able to watch the jewelers cut, form and assemble metal into wearable art, a blacksmith making functional objects with a hot forge, hammer and anvil, and sculptors cutting steel and assembling large works of art for the home or garden.

The Festival will be held in the heart of Gruene Historic District at New Braunfels, Texas, on the banks of the Guadalupe River. Be sure to visit the unique stores, dine at a variety of local restaurants, and kick up your heels at Gruene Hall, Texas' oldest dance hall. The E Flat Porch Band will play on the festival grounds both days. Gruene is located in New Braunfels just off IH 35. Take IH 35 to Exit 191 (Cayon Lake, FM 306), go west 1.5 miles and turn left at the traffic light on to Hunter Road and go one half mile to Gruene.

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

First Ever Tug of War, "Tournament of Champions"

Tug Of War - Louise Hays Park October 18th at 5 PM
Sponsored By:
Clear River Advocates Inc.
The Rose Radio, Simpson Homes,
Hill Country Happenings Magazine
& Revolution FM
Put your six member men, women, teen and children teams together for Kerrville’s first ever…Tug Of War
“Tournament of Champions”

For information or to register a team
Call: 830-377-9838 or E-mail clearriver1@yahoo.com
Come to Louise Hays Park and see teams pulled through the mud. Put together your own team $ 10.00 per person.
The winning team members
Will receive Great Prizes
Free to the public


Teams may be made up of family or any association with origination. Proceeds go to C.R.A. for their on going efforts to keep the Guadalupe River clean. The winning teams have the bragging rights as Tug of War Champions of Kerrville.

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

Become a Cowgirl…if only for a Weekend!


The Silver Spur Guest Ranch in Bandera, TX - home of the one and only and original "Cowgirl's Weekend" - is very happy to announce the next event:

September 19 - 21, 2008!
A great weekend filled with fun and entertainment for mothers, daughters, sisters and friends, including: Trail Rides, Horsemanship Clinic, Barrel Racing, Pole Bending, Western Entertainment, Saloon Night, Wrangler's Surprise Game, Rodeo Roping, Dutch Oven Cooking and Homemade Meals, Comfortable Accomodations.

All inclusive, plus tax and gratuity; for the entire 3 days/2 nights weekend: $325.00 per person. "Early Bird Special": Register by 8/16 and save $25.00 per person.
Minimum age is 11 years; maximum weight per rider is 220 pounds.
Call now for your reservations; space is limited!
Call 830-796-3037 or see www.silverspur-ranch.com for more information.


Monday, August 11, 2008

Billy Mata, Quebe Sisters bring on the swing to Pioneer Museum


One of the most dynamic music acts in Texas will make its debut in Fredericksburg at the next Roots Music concert at the Pioneer Museum on Saturday, August 16, 2008.

Organizers are anticipating the largest crowd yet for this show - even more than the record-breaking attendance at the July bluegrass concert - because the Quebe Sisters are bringing their red-hot act of western fiddle and harmonies to town. Considered a cross between the Andrews Sisters and Bob Wills, the Quebe Sisters are capturing attention across the nation for their vintage harmonies, triple fiddle riffs, and high-energy show.

The young Fort Worth-based sisters Grace, Sophia, & Hulda Quebe have performed professionally since 2000. They have already won fiddle contests, music awards and appeared on shows and festivals across the nation. This will be their first performance in the Fredericksburg area. Texas residents may remember them for the vintage TV commercial for HEB.

The evening will be topped off by Billy Mata and the Texas Tradition. Mata has performed traditional honky-tonk and western swing for more than 30 years. He fronts a traditional western swing band with true country fiddles, steel guitar, and a swinging rhythm section. The dance floor will be set up so his avid followers can two-step all evening to the classic songs of Bob Wills, Johnny Bush, Ray Price, and Asleep At The Wheel. Mata has been named the top Male Vocalist and Entertainer of the Year by the Academy of Western Artists.

Grounds will be open early for the return of the free jam sessions. Musicians of all abilities are invited to bring their acoustic instruments out from 2 to 5 p.m. for playing under the shade trees inside the museum grounds.

Gates for the evening show open at 5 p.m., with the concert from 6 to 10 p.m. Admission is $10, with tickets sold at the gate. Students age 17 and younger are free.

Catered meal for purchase from 5:30 until it is gone. Guests can also enjoy beer, wine, soft drinks, and water. Commemorative half-bottles of wine - with the popular 2008 logo - are also for sale for $10.

The Pioneer Museum is located at 309 West Main Street in Fredericksburg. Guests can bring lawn chairs or use folding chairs that are provided.

The final concert in the 2008 Roots Music series will be on September 27, and will feature Celtic & New World with the Blaggards.

Proceeds support the mission of the Gillespie County Historical Society. More information is available by calling 830-997-2835.

Photo:
Grace, Sophia, & Hulda Quebe will bring their close harmonies and western swing fiddle licks to the Pioneer Museum in Fredericksburg on August 16 for the next Roots Music concert. Billy Mata and the Texas Tradition also perform for the western swing-themed Saturday night concert.

Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Hill Country Youth Ranch presents - I Used to Dream

The Hill Country Youth Ranch Fine Arts Department and the Children’s Music Project proudly present a brand new show at the Ranch’s Turner Blackbox Theatre August 8-10th. I Used to Dream, named for the showcase song in the play, not only tells the stories of HCYR children, but features them as dancers, singers and actors, alongside talented young actors from the community. Tickets are $5 each and are available at the HCYR front desk, or by simply reserving your tickets by calling 367-2131.

In the late 1990s the Hill Country Youth Ranch experimented by taking songs from their acclaimed CD Broken Wings Can Fly and used the stories told in those songs to create a theatrical production by the same name. After a five-year run, each year featuring new production numbers, Broken Wings was retired.

But now, with the success of that production in mind, the Ranch has embarked upon a mission in the summer of 2008 – to create a brand new dramatic production based on the songs from the new CD Heart Like a Flower, which was produced by professional music producer Tony Young and which just arrived from the press this week.

Twenty-five eager children and adults from the Youth Ranch and from the community have worked daily since late May to not only rehearse and bring the production to an appreciative audience, but to actually create the show as they work.

The residents of the Youth Ranch have benefited beyond measure by working with talented folks from the theatre-and-music-rich Kerrville-Ingram-Hunt community. Among those lending their talents are Playhouse2000’s Singin’ in the Rain star Jake Asbury, who not only will sing and dance in the show, but has also helped teach dancing to some of the children. Recent Ballet Magnificat attendee Camille Priour has created a dance for the title song with a young lady who resides at the Ranch. And John Dean Domingue, hyper-talented young dancer/writer/actor has choreographed another song for the show, and worked directly with the dancers to bring an elegance to their work.

In the acting department, local up-and-coming actresses Genie Iness, Madison White and Brittney Whitten, will portray caseworkers in scenes that serve as prequels to each showcase number. They have been instrumental in encouraging and inspiring the children to achieve their best. And the kids were also treated to individual work with ITM graduate and now performance student at the Tisch School of the Arts at New York University, Lillian Beaudoin.

And in perhaps the Ranch’s proudest moment, also featured will be recent ITM graduate and college bound Ranch resident Jacob Favela, an aspiring rapper, who will perform his songs Forgiven and For the Kids. Jacob has had a whirlwind year after his music videos became popular through word of mouth and via YouTube. He was invited to speak at a National Conference in Denver, awarded the CPS Youth of the Year in a ceremony with Lance Armstrong, Andy Roddick and Elton John, and met Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama in a visit to the US Capitol. This will perhaps be his last performance at the Ranch.

ITM Theatre Department, Guadalupe Stage Quartet and Point lighting guru Dan Schmidt has designed the lighting for the show, with the help of Gary Priour, and will be assisted by ITM Thespian lightmaster Jordan Spradling. Carol Priour, HCYR Fine Arts Director, is the costumer and she, Marcy Dorman, and Schmidt have worked long hours as Assistant Directors to fine tune the show.

Most of the songs being showcased in I Used to Dream are from the Children’s Music Project’s CD Heart Like a Flower, although the show will feature at least one completely new song destined for a future CMP CD. The songs, written by professional songwriters such as Dana Cooper and Scott Boland, also feature such world-class musicians and singers as Monte Montgomery, Flaco Jimenez, Stephen Bruton and Benita Arteberry-Burns. Copies of the new CD will be available at the show, with all proceeds going towards helping the Ranch continue its mission of helping foster children.

“We have always known that children who have undergone trauma best express themselves through the arts – painting, music, writing poetry – but we found a new energy and transformation in these kids when we put them onstage and allowed them to tell their own stories,” said show director Tony Gallucci. At the earlier show, Broken Wings Can Fly, audiences were transformed by learning about the resilience of kids wounded by those they most trust.

“Each of these art forms in and of itself is a form of story-telling – a child may tell their story by simply writing it out, or they may translate it into a verbal picture through poetry, or sometimes the visual depiction works best for them through drawing. Music has been a means of conveying of loss since long before Nashville slicked it up and made millions off of it. But sometimes the layperson doesn’t recognize that people can tell a story also through dramatic expression or dance, and those are the kinds of stories we also wanted to tell – the physical stories. Each scene tells the story of children who have suffered emotional trauma and how they find their way in the world, and we tell that story through singing, acting and dance.”

“By taking one person’s story and creating a song we have already created a new story – an interpretation of the original as viewed by another soul. Taking it another step and adding dance creates yet another story, and making it a dramatic representation yet again adds a layer. So, in creating a scene for a production, the children suddenly are privy to the depths of a story from the eyes of several creators, and their own creative juices begin to flow from depths they had not yet plumbed.”

“The title I Used to Dream comes from the centerpiece song of the show, written by Carol Priour and brought to musical life on the CD by Mike Cross. It tells of the journey from despair to hope, which is the same journey we hoped to express with the show itself – that kids born into traumatic circumstances still have their whole lives ahead of them to turn to wonderful purpose.”

The show will be presented at the Turner Blackbox Theatre on the HCYR Campus, 1 mile N of Ingram off of Highway 27, Friday, August 8th at 7 p.m., Saturday, August 9th at 7 p.m., and Sunday, August 10th, at 3 p.m. Tickets are $5, and may be reserved by calling 367-2131, or purchased in advance at the Hill Country Youth Ranch Administration Building. Unreserved and standby tickets may be available at the door ten minutes prior to curtain time, but please be aware that previous BCYR shows have sold out. Reservations are recommended.

NB House Concerts Special Event


NB House Concerts invites you to come spend Sunday afternoon, August 3rd from 5:00 to 8:00pm at a special appearance of Shake Russell and his band. If you're one of the people who has never heard him, you've surely heard songs he's written such as "Put Yourself in My Shoes" co-written with Clint Black, along with many, many others. Shake's had a song go up into Space with the Astronauts (Deep in the West), composed a theme song for a PBS travel series called "Traveling Texas" and has even written a theme song about the San Marcos River (River of Innocence). We are so lucky in Texas that Shake has decided to continue to work the road, playing hundreds of gigs a year and carrying on the tradition of the troubadour singer-songwriter. Touring with fellow veteran musicians, Doug Floyd on mandolin and Mike Roberts on bass, you're sure to enjoy getting a chance to hear this group up close and personal.

In addition to the music, you will also get to meet Daniel Boone, retired Air Force Lt. Colonel, who is running for Texas House District 73. Dan is passionate about the preservation of the Hill Country and its water resources, citizen input into issues such as toll roads and the proposed loop, and public education.

There is a suggested cash donation of $15/person collected on behalf of the performers. 100% of this donation goes directly to the performers. For information, reservations and directions, call 830-625-0859. Attendance is limited so reservations are highly recommended (but are not required).

For those new to the house concert concept, we provide a quiet listening environment in our private home where you are can join Shake, Doug, Mike and Dan in a gathering as friends and guests and enjoy live acoustic music, fellowship, and food. There will be two sets of music with a potluck dinner between the sets. Just bring something to add to the potluck. Coffee, iced tea, plates, tea, etc. are provided by the host. Doors open at 4:30pm.

Monday, July 21, 2008

Bluegrass Roots concert in Fredericksburg this coming weekend...


Fans of bluegrass will enjoy four distinct styles of this American original music at the next Roots Music concert at the Pioneer Museum on Saturday, July 26 in Fredericksburg, Texas.

Between 5 and 6 p.m., the Southwinds Dulcimer group will perform near the food court. This 12-piece orchestra is made up of adult non-professional musicians from the Kerrville area. They perform a selection of classic mountain dulcimer tunes.

From 6 to 6:45 p.m., Cross Mountain takes the stage. The Fredericksburg-based quintet is newly-formed, and plays bluegrass gospel with lots of tight harmonies and acoustic instrumentals.

Beginning at 7 p.m., the Double Eagle String Band will perform for the live simulcast on radio. Their sound is straight from the Appalachian mountains, with twin fiddles, banjo, guitar, mandolin, harmonica, and bass.

Finishing out the evening is the South Austin Jug Band, appearing in Fredericksburg for the first time. This nationally-recognized band mixes acoustic, folk, roots, and swing into an award-winning style they call "newgrass."

The bluegrass-themed day begins in the afternoon with a free jam session under the trees from 2 to 5 p.m. Musicians of all ability levels are invited to bring their acoustic instruments and join in.

From 5:30 until it runs out, guests can enjoy a catered meal by Vickie Bonewitz of My Own Chef. The menu offers Grilled Pork Chops with Black Pepper Plum Glaze, Fresh Tomato & Cheese Grits Casserole, Whole Okra in Brown Butter, with Rolls & Butter. For the first time, there will be a Lite Summer Dinner Option of CKC Marinated Goat Feta, Homemade Foccacia Bread, and Fresh Berries. Beer, wine, water and soft drinks will be available for purchase, as well as a commemorative half bottle of wine with the 2008 Roots Music label.

Gates for the concert open at 5 p.m. Admission is $10, with tickets sold at the gate. Students age 17 and younger are free.

The Pioneer Museum is located at 309 West Main Street in Fredericksburg. Guests are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs.

This is the 7th season of the successful Roots Music series, a set of live, open-air concerts featuring emerging and established artists in an informal, family setting. Remaining 2008 concerts are August 16, Western Swing featuring Billy Mata and the Quebe Sisters; and September 27, Celtic & New World with the Blaggards.

Proceeds support the mission of the Gillespie County Historical Society. More information is available by calling 830-997-2835.

Photo:
The South Austin Jug Band combines many roots styles of music to create its distinct "newgrass" sound. The group will perform this Saturday, July 26, along with Cross Mountain, Southwind Dulcimers, and the Double Eagle String Band at the Pioneer Museum's Roots Music concert in Fredericksburg.

Thursday, July 17, 2008

July Mixer - Bulverde/Spring Branch Chamber of Commerce

The July mixer for the Bulverde/Spring Branch Chamber of Commerce will be a gala event! Not only will the evening be fun-filled, but there will be structured networking with other area businesses.

The mixer will be July 24th from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm at the new Bulverde/Spring Branch Public Library. Dinner will be served in three courses with a changing of tables to facilitate your meeting with multiple other community business representatives. This will afford the introduction of your company’s service or products to others and vice versa.

There is no cost for this dinner/meeting, but seating is limited. So mark your calendar and call (830-438-4285) or email (bsbacoc@gvtc.com) your RSVP to ensure your reservation.

Bring 20 business cards to use in the networking exercises and be prepared to have a fast-moving, fun-filled time that will promote your business and introduce you to other community leaders that may very well become your customers or clients.

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Sam Baker & Walt Wilkins - We'll Take Europe Tour

The Uptown Marble Theatre and GTT Entertainment proudly bring a preview of what two of America’s finest poets will be unleashing on the Old World. Walt Wilkins and Sam Baker are heading out on a three week trek across Europe to play the songs, tell the stories and paint the pictures using only words, six steel strings and two lifetimes of experiences most people just read about. The setting for this collage of verbal visuals is the beautiful Uptown Marble Theater, 218 Main Street, Marble Falls Texas. The show is a Sunday matinee and starts at 2:00 PM. Tickets are $12.00 in advance, $15.00 day of show, and are available by phone at 830-693-9996, or at the R-Bar & Grill, 904 3rd St, Marble Falls, TX. Call the theater for information about limited table seating in front of the stage for $20.

Walt Wilkins has been called the heir apparent to the Texas Songwriters legacy tradition established by Guy Clark, Townes Van Zandt and Billy Joe Shaver. His 2007 CD release (Diamonds in the Sun Palo Duro Records) with the Hill Country Super Band “The Mystiqueros” strengthens Wilkins’ reputation as a strong performer and band leader. Holding a place on the Americana Music Chart for over 50 weeks since the debut in 2007 (with 9 weeks in the top 10) is only one more example of the large net that Walt Wilkins’ talent throws. Chet Flippo of CMT’s website calls Diamonds “one of the Top 10 Best of 2007”. The CD made several “Top of 2007” lists.

Sam Baker may not be a household name in the U.S…..That may be by design. Sam’s two independently released CDs “Mercy” and “Pretty World” have enjoyed amazing acceptance in Europe with “Pretty World” Charting at #1 before it was even released in the United States. Both Recordings were Co-Produced by Wilkins. Joining Walt & Sam may be various Mystiqueros and some special other surprise guests.

For tickets and info call 830-693-9996.

Friday, June 6, 2008

Pioneer Museum becomes a "Texas Dance Hall"


The Pioneer Museum celebrates Texas Dance Hall music, with two swinging examples of hot two-stepping acts, for the next Roots Music in the Texas Hill Country concert, coming Saturday, June 28 on Main Street in Fredericksburg.

This is the 7th season of the successful Roots Music series, a set of live, open-air concerts featuring emerging and established artists in an informal, family setting.

Texas Dance Hall night featuring...

Dale Watson, one of the last authentic country music voices

Jesse Dayton, playing his brand of "turbo country"

Gates open at 5 p.m., with the concert from 6 to 10 p.m. Admission is $10, with tickets sold at the gate. Visitors can receive a $2 discount by printing out the web page at www.pioneermuseum.com. Students age 17 and younger are free.

The Pioneer Museum is located at 309 West Main Street in Fredericksburg. Guests can bring lawn chairs or use folding chairs that are provided.

Catered meal for purchase from 5:30 until it is gone. Guests can also enjoy beer, wine, soft drinks, and water.

Upcoming 2008 concerts are July 26, Newgrass & Mountain featuring the South Austin Jug Band; August 16, Western Swing featuring Billy Mata; and September 27, Celtic & New World with the Blaggards.

Proceeds support the mission of the Gillespie County Historical Society. More information is available by calling 830-997-2835.

Thursday, May 29, 2008

Cypress Celebration - Arts & Crafts, Chili, Auctions, more...

At this year's Cypress Celebration, there will be no shortage of fun for Dad on Father's Day Weekend. The Sabinal Volunteer Fire Department plans to entertain the whole family, especially Dads, on Saturday, June 21, 2008 as early as 8:00 AM.

Whether you've got old treasures to sell or just want to browse through someone else's, come on out on June 21st for our Miscellaneous Auction during the Cypress Celebration. We are allowing anyone, public or private entity, to list their items for auction with 20% of all proceeds benefiting the Sabinal Volunteer Fire Department. Come browse through the collection all morning because the bidding starts promptly at 1 PM. While you're bidding, grab a plate of our famous homemade BBQ Brisket, potato salad and beans for only $6.

While Dads are bidding their hard-earned money away, the rest of the family can take part in the Arts & Crafts fair, the Kids Combat Challenge, Little Mr. & Mrs. Pageant, 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament, Car Bashing, Chili Cook-Off, and Horseshoe Pitching.

All proceeds benefit the Sabinal Volunteer Fire Department. Sponsorships are still being accepted and vendor spaces are still available. If you would like to participate or just need more information, you can contact the Sabinal Volunteer Fire Department at P.O. Box 145, Sabinal, Texas 78881 or telephone them at (830) 988-3001. You can also contact Event Coordinator, Audrey Jones at 830-261-0638 or e-mail her at audrey@devoted2you.com.

Monday, April 14, 2008

6th Annual Great Castell Kayak Race - Paddle on to "LiveStrong"

Texas's Only Charity Kayak Race! The Sixth Annual Great Castell Kayak Race, is scheduled the first weekend in June, Saturday, June 7th, on the Llano River, between Mason and Fredericksburg. The race begins at the Hwy 87 silver suspension bridge that is familiar to many Texans as they cross the Llano River entering or leaving the Texas Hill Country. Music, barbecue and camping will be provided at the finish line, 12 miles downstream, in tiny Castell.
This year the race is in memory of Judith Curtis, who succumbed to cancer in 2007. Judith's two surviving sisters have teamed up to raise funds for cancer awareness through the auspices of the Lance Armstrong Foundation with this grassroots event they started in 2003.
Although Judith was taken by melanoma cancer, she inspired all around her and is responsible for bringing cancer needs to the forefront of cancer awareness in Mason Texas, where she resided. Her sisters have continued the cause in her absence. Janice Ramahlo of Atlanta, Ga. has always been a supporter of the race, she works for the Jeff Foxworthy family who have also contributed each year. After experiencing the trauma of dealing with survival issues, treatment issues and the emotional impact on family and friends she and Race Director Jeri Alice Arsenault, are working hard this year to reach out to help others in honor of their sister's race to survive.

The connection with Lance Armstrong began in Fredericksburg,Texas where Judith was treated by the same oncologist as Armstrong.
From that very moment she felt hope and wanted to meet Lance- he was a hero to her. Many outstanding people came into her life because she showed champion-like courage and determination despite her prognosis. She was employed at Mason's popular Santos Taqueria (www.santostaqueria.com) where she constantly amazed everyone with her smile and charm, becoming part of their extended family. So many other people in Mason, Fredericksburg and at MD Anderson, where she received advanced treatment, enjoyed her wry humor and bright smile.
As fate would have it, a member of Lance's team lives in Castell, where Judith's sister, Jeri Alice, started the event in 2003. One thing led to another and now, GCKR is a certified grassroots fundraiser for LAF. This gives the race a solid outlet for the fundraising that is part of every year's event. This new partnership is perfect for the event as it is national in scope, thus bringing tourism to the Hill Country region, and even better, LAF provides local community support in the form of community grants and direct support to cancer survivors and their families regardless of location.

The race has a new "put in" point this year courtesy of the Llano River RV Park at the 87 river bridge over the Llano. Breakfast tacos and coffee for the racers will be available at the starting point, as well as clean restrooms, camping and a place for your RV! Please call 866-640-9696 for reservations to camp or park at the Park or visit their web site at
www.llanoriverrvpark.com
While paddling or floating the 12 miles downstream to Castell, participants are encouraged to gather trash for the Llano River Cleanup for Lance. There is a prize for the most trash gathered. Particpates can register at the "put in" point starting at 8AM the day of the race or online at the race web site, www.castelltexas.com. Call early to reserve your spot! Early registration of $35 guarantees the 2008 race t-shirt, provided by Guaran-Tees, race fee, free camping at the finish line at RiverSounds in Castell and bottled water, provided by the race's newest sponsor, RVOS Insurance of Temple Texas. Shuttles will also be provided free of charge.

At the finish line a traditional live Texas music serenade and street dance are sponsored this year by the Dallas Songwriters Group, the Austin Songwriters Group, and Texas Songwriters in the Round. There is no cover charge for the street dance, thanks to the generosity of the musicians who are donating their time and talent to support LAF.
Llano's historic Badu House www.baduhouse.com hosts this year's pre-race dinner and auction in the posh pioneer ambiance of their banquet hall on Friday, June 6th, the night before the race. Race organizers are currently accepting donations and auction items. The dinner starts at 6:30 and will include Texas wines and hill country cuisine. Among the auction items are Mason's Sandstone Cellars award winning wines www.sandstonecellarswinery.com ,and various Bed & Breakfast stays and dinners from several area restaurants. 100% of auction proceeds go directly to LAF. The auction is for all landlubbers (and paddlers too)! Visit www.hill-country-visitor.com online for lodging options.
Hill Country Radio stations KBAY (www.radiohillcountry.com), KFAN (www.texasrebelradio.com) , and KRVL (www.krvl.com) will provide updates on the events and music lineup on their websites, as well as on air. Additionally, Kerrville's KRVL-FM will broadcast live from the shoreline as the winners come ashore. BBQ will be provided by Miller's Meats of Mason.
Hill Country Chambers, banks, newspapers, magazines, restaurants and other area businesses are helping bring the event to fruition with donations of auction items, services, and various levels of sponsorship. Potential sponsors interested in supporting this worthy cause still have a chance to get their logos on the posters, t-shirts and press releases that go out around the state in April, May and early June, by contacting Ms. Arsenault at (512) 247-4596.

Remember this is a family event and any non-motorized floating devices are allowed, including kayaks, canoes, rafts and tubes. Although no pets are allowed at the finish line. GCKR is a member of the Llano and Mason Chamber of Commerce as well as a member of Texas Canoe Racing Association.

More info:
512-217-4596

www.castelltexas.com

Tuesday, March 25, 2008

Johnson City Texas, Wildflower Days: Spirit of the Hill Country

Wildflowers! Farmer's market – all sorts of interesting booths and lavender too! Workshops with photographers, master gardeners, rainwater experts! Home and garden tour! Arts and crafts! Food! Live music! Family fun! That’s part of the array of activities for WILD FLOWER DAYS in downtown Johnson City, Texas, April 19 & 20, 2008 from 9 AM – 5 PM.

Enjoy the Hill Country wildflowers and fresh air and make the most of a tremendous opportunity to increase your gardening savvy by visiting with the local Master Gardeners and rainwater collection experts. A local lavender grower will also discuss the popular hill country plant.

A tour of historic and interesting homes and gardens ranks high on the to-do list:

The Barnwell House, located on the courthouse square, is a two-story Texas Victorian built in 1913 using East Texas longleaf-pine. It has been basically restored and updated. The historic structure was built by Dr. James Barnwell and served as his family’s home and Blanco County’s first hospital. There’s more to learn on the tour.

Across the courthouse square, enjoy tea cakes and tea on the patio and in the garden of The Pearl Hotel, a delightful structure completed in 1883, having 10 rooms serving those early travelers coming to the county seat. Learn of its other stories on the tour.

Within strolling distance is the Johnson Settlement Log Cabin built in the late 1850s by Samuel Ealy Johnson Sr. (President Johnson’s grandfather) and his brother Tom. The fields near the cabin have an abundant variety of grasses, enjoyed by occasional flocks of turkeys and chickens. This history-packed structure is located in the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park.

Chantilly Lace and Country Inn and Lavender Farm is welcoming the tour. It’s a charming bed and breakfast resting on 6 acres with beautiful oak trees, butterfly gardens and large field of lavender. A must see.

The Stribling House, a 1914 era structure, was built by Emory Stribling, an early Blanco County settler and rancher. The home was built during the short period of time between the Victorian and Craftsman styles and therefore incorporates both styles as seen in the gingerbread cut-outs in each gable and the interior woodwork. Inside, enjoy the unique aspects of this home. Step back in time!

A wildflower photography workshop will be available with a local professional photographer. Not to be missed.

A Farmer’s Market and food booths with all sorts of homegrown/homemade goodies will be easily accessed. More on that next week! Arts and Crafts booths and live music too!

Enjoy Johnson City’s excellent art galleries and great shops and restaurants around town. Sponsored by the Johnson City Chamber of Commerce: 830-868-7684