BASTROP
T O W N & C O U N T R Y
Oktoberfest: Oktoberfest: Oktoberfest: Local & Tasty Local & Tasty Local & Tasty
Interior
Hello Again,
Happy Autumn!
This is a favorite time of year for many of us in Central Texas (even in a presidential election year ) A break in the heat gives us a chance to linger outside a bit, rather than running for shade or AC
We are definitely looking forward to seeing Bastrop County neighbors out and about, with so many events on the calendar We try to keep the calendar accurate but if you see anything incorrect, don’t hesitate to text or email us. One intrepid reader was good enough to call us from the Bastrop movie theater to tell us he had arrived at the published time and there was no singles event happening Sorry about that, sir I appreciate your call
With another back-to-school season in the archives, maybe you’re thinking about taking a workshop or class yourself BT&C has cataloged for you an impressive list of learning experiences for adults right here close to home
And while we’ve enjoyed writing sixteen issues of Drink this Now, this issue we sought professional help. The creatives at StoreHouse made something very special for you, complete with a beautiful photo (page 22 ) We’re all about exquisite sensory experiences
Speaking of which the one of us who drinks took on the enjoyable task of putting together a guide to Bastrop County’s breweries, just in time for Oktoberfest Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or just want to get back to your German roots, we’ve got the scoop in this issue
Did you know there’s a small group of writers who meet regularly at the Smithville Library? BT&C invited them to pen stories that would make your hair stand up and your palms sweat We present to you three (page 24) that are perfect Halloween reading
Enjoy!
Karen Derr and Jon Ryan Publishers and Editors 512-720-8290 or BastropMagazine@gmail com
A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! These vintage buildings have been lovingly updated and maintained in historic Downtown Bastrop. This property is believed to have been built in 1892 and includes a large and lofty residential space above and a charming commercial space, currently a wine bar, at street level Very busy location just off Main Street. Ample parking is provided by parking lot behind (city.) Cement/Tile floors in the shop and wood floors on the second floor. Approximately 2000 sf each level. The commercial space has a courtyard behind for sipping al fresco. The residential space has two bathrooms, a kitchen, and laundry. High ceilings and expansive wood floors add to the stylish loft vibe. The commercial space has shop space, office space, a professional sink and wet area, and two restrooms. Both are separately metered and have multiple entries. Be a part of all the excitement generated by Bastrop Main Street. Walk to the Colorado River, parks, trails, and dining...all within a block of this spacious home/workspace.
A GUIDE TO LOCAL Brews
Autumn is Oktoberfest-time and you don’t have to travel far to lift a pint in celebration with fellow beer enthusiasts Bastrop County boasts four breweries (don’t get us started on whether they are craft or micro.) Suffice it to say they are all locally owned with brewmasters on site. BT&C sat down with the owners at each and did our...ahem...research, so you can plan your own perfect Oktoberfest experience.
Yegua Creek Brewery in McDade. Driving through the Bastrop County countryside to get to this brewery set amongst ranch and vineyard land, you’ll feel like you’re on a little vacation
Proprietors: Steve Frintz, Owner, Joey Ackman, Brewmaster
The Flight: Mundine’s Gold IPA (Joey’s fav) Behren’s Blond (Steve’s fav) Nitro Rother Stout 8% Wolf Bock - (BT&C fav)
The Standout: Wolf Bock - Fullflavored yet easy to drink ABV:6% The house-brewed hard seltzer with just fresh lime is delish They’re brewing NA root beer, too
What Else? A full menu from their kitchen The green chili burger is the favorite with beer drinkers Live music and the brewery is on the same property as Rising Sun Vineyard so a crowdpleaser
Oktoberfest: Texas Pecan Beer Green Chili Fest in September
Located at 233 Edmonson Ranch Road, McDade YeguaCreekBrewery com
May we suggest an Autumn crawl or take home some growlers and have your own Oktoberfest tasting.
Iron Bridge Ice House in Bastrop. With 18 labels, there’s a lot to try And, IBIH is part of Neighbors so there are patios overlooking the river, a bar, and great food Claiming the title of the smallest brewery in Texas, the brewery itself is not open to the public and is self-described as “very much craft ”
Proprietors: Tom and Lori Dickey, owners, Forest Rogness, Brewmaster
The Flight: Rivet IPA (Tom’s fav) Yard Dog Kolsch (BT&C fav) Blonde Ale Bourbon Pecan Stout
The Standout: Yard Dog, smooth from start to finish The Bourbon Pecan Stout was a close second, with lots of warm flavors for fall (Continued next page)
YeguaCreekBrewery com
IronBridgeIceHouse com (continued)
What Else? An extensive menu of food Fried Brussels sprouts tossed in habanero hot honey hit the spot with our tasting Live music every week Lots of NA choices
Oktoberfest: German Marzan on tap by the end of September
Located at 601 Chestnut St #E, Bastrop.
602 Brewing Company, Bastrop.
It’s always Oktoberfest at 602 Brewing. In the heart of Bastrop’s historic Main Street district, in a historic building with the brewing tanks on view, it’s traditional with an edge Having the younger members of the Keyrouz family working in key positions adds a hip vibe to this hometown favorite
Proprietor: Raymond Keyrouz and family Brewmasters, Jereme Walker and Neil Rentfro
The Flight: Dirty Blonde
Tipsy Nun Belgian Strong Golden Ale
Drunken Monk IPA 7 5% ABV (BT&C fav)
Untamed Melissa Wild Ale
Soulless Ginger Pilsner
The Standout: BT&C favored the Drunken Monk but the Untamed Ginger came in a close second -- spicy, gingerforward
What Else? Literally something for everyone The pretzel from Tough Cookie with house made beer cheese is a favorite among beer drinkers Large menu from this long-time Bastrop area restaurant family. Live music on the patio every week Check out their calendar for karaoke, Pints and Paints, and the live music lineup at 602Brewing com/events/ Located at 919 Main St Bastrop
Smithville Brewing Company, Smithville Brewmaster Todd Henry has been brewing professionally for 14 years They usually offer four to five of their beers on tap Their industrial modern building has plenty of parking and outdoor space too With a full kitchen and plenty of elbow room, it’s a favorite for locals
Proprietors: Ashley Harris & brewmaster Todd Henry
The Flight:
Smithville IPA 6 8% ABV (BT&C fav)
Buescher Light Lager - (Todd’s fav) “light with a kick” Hefeweizen - “simple & straightforward”
The Standout:
A lot of Smithville Brewing’s beers look the same but taste very different BT&C loved the Smithville IPA which is floral & fruity but not bitter.
What Else? A fun menu with substantial bar food They cater to just about everyone with items like vegan nachos, NA beer, and a 13-ounce sourdough pretzel Their best seller with beer drinkers is their 100% locally raised longhorn beef burgers from Lonesome Pines Ranch, just 2 miles up the road There is live music every Sunday from 4-6 Follow them on Facebook to catch the dates for Taproom Trivia and Music Bingo SmithvilleBrewing com
Oktoberfest: Oktoberfest in Smithville is happening on Saturday, September 28th They’ll have live music, a beer release, a stein holding contest, and fest food
Just Over the County Line: Wild Bunch Brewing
It seemed a shame to leave these guys out of our county guide since they’re just into Caldwell County However, they were closed in August for renovations anyway so give them a try and let us know what you think 1764 Taylorsville Rd Red Rock WildBunchBrewing com
Plant This Now...
With tomato plants available in stores, there’s nothing keeping you from trying to squeeze in one more crop of tomatoes this year
Early September: Plant Beans, English and Snap Peas, Summer Squash
Late September: Broccoli, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Collards, Garlic, Kohlrabi
Early to Mid-October: Arugula, Broccoli, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Collards, Garlic, Kohlrabi
Mid to Late October: Carrots, Endive, Lettuce, Spinach, Turnip
All October: Beets, Chard, Garlic, Mustard, Multiplier Onion, Radish, Strawberry Plants, Most Herbs Except Basil Dig sweet potatoes before the first frost
FRESH AT A FARMERS' MARKET NEAR YOU
The Bastrop 1832 Farmers’ Market is open every Saturday from 10 am to 2 pm Bastrop1832FarmersMarket org
Elgin's Farmers Market open Thursday - from 4 pm to 7 pm at Veterans' Memorial Park ElginFarmersMarket com
Eden East Farm Stand at 1910 Main Street Bastrop is open 4-7 PM Wednesdays, 9 am-1 pm Fridays & Saturdays edeneastaustin com/farm/
Source: Master Gardner Dolores Leeper, editor of the Garden Guide for Austin & Vicinity and the Secretary/Treasurer for the Bastrop 1832 Farmers' Market Used with permission
Smithville Sunday Market at James H Long Railroad Park off Main & 1st in downtown Smithville. Sundays from 10 am – 2 pm SmithvilleMarket com
S
N E V E R
T O P
LEARNING curiosity = life
Glass Blowing Workshop at Lost Pines Art Center
Get a taste of glassblowing and create a unique piece to take home. Get hands-on instruction from Manda Barnes as she helps you shape and heat your piece to completion Ages 14+ are welcome; spots are limited! October 5th: 10 am-4 pm (20 minute sessions) To reserve a spot, visit https://www.lostpinesartcenter.org/classes-specialevents/
Encaustic Collage Workshop
Embed printed images, textures, text, objects, and color with encaustic medium on prepared panels Also, learn how to set up an encaustic studio at home with inexpensive tools and materials In this workshop led by Stacey create three small original works of art in a relaxed, beginner-friendly, and fun environment No prior encaustic experience is needed
The workshop is 6 hours, everything included including lunch $165 Sat, Oct 19, 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM Presented by Bean & Noodle, at Lo-Fi Coffee House & Studio 30 North Main Street in Elgin BeanandNoodle com
Jigsaw Block Printing Workshop
Learn how to design and carve a block for printing a multi-color linocut print using the jigsaw method All materials included including a workshop guide to take home $75, Saturday, Sep 28, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM Presented by Bean & Noodle, at Lo-Fi Coffee House & Studio 30 North Main Street in Elgin BeanandNoodle com or BeanandNoodle@gmail com
Bundle Dying with Natural Materials
Learn how to use natural dyes to create color and pattern on cotton bandanas During this workshop, you'll learn how to bundle dye fabric using both fresh and dried natural materials $120
All materials are included in the workshop price Age 16+, Sunday, Oct 27, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM presented by Ferret and Fern Garden Studio, 104 E 7th Street, Elgin FerretandFern com
EarthNativeSchool com
Bastrop County
Flint Knapping & Primitive Stone Tools
October 19, 2024
Plant Medicine - Salves, Teas & Tinctures
October 20, 2024
Campfire Cooking - October 27, 2024
Wilderness Survival 101 - November 2-3, 2024
ForagingCommonEdible&MedicinalPlantsofCentralTexas
All of the things you need to know to start your wildcrafting journey,includingbasicplantidentification,ahandfulofcommon local edible and medicinal plants, wild plant harvesting and preparation, howtoidentifyandavoidtoxicplantsinour areaas well as recommended resources that will help you to continue your learning journey This class will be taught by Earth Native’s resident plant and foraging expert Eric Knight, co-author of Foraging Texas, Autographed field guides will be available for purchaseduringregistration $85 November10,2024,10:00am3:00pm PresentedbyEarthNativeSchool,137WoodviewLane, Bastrop.EarthNativeSchool.com
200HourYogaTeacherTraining
Deepen your practice or learn how to share it with others Explore guiding others through power, flow & slow stretch, and Hatha practices Learn about anatomy and its importance in yoga, how to safely & effectively sequence a class & provide adjustments,thehistory,andphilosophyofyoga,thebusinessof yoga, private clientele, retreats, and connecting to our community through donation based classes Training groups are intentionallykeptsmall Thisallowsourleadinstructorandother facilitators to make sure trainees are set up for success PresentedbyBodyandShineWellness, January 11th - March 9th, 2025 For more information go to BodyandShineWellness.com/ytt
PotteryClassesbyMayaBrewington
Learn from an experienced potter living and working in Bastrop at her well-equipped home studio with kiln She gives pottery classes at various levels Her beginner class covers the definition of clay, foundational information, and the various ways inwhichweworkwithclay,building,connecting,anddecorating All materials, tools, clay, and glazes needed for the class are provided Classesstartatnoon,andaverage3hourseach Sept 9,10,11,23,24,30 $255,ContactDosVidasPottery@gmailcom
An Introduction to Natural Dyes - 2-day workshop
Learn how to use natural dyes to create color and pattern on cotton bandanas During this 2 day workshop, you'll learn how to prepare fabric for dying, create dye baths from both fresh and dried natural materials, and use resist techniques to create patterns All materials are included in the workshop price Natural dying is a slow process so this workshop will be held over two weekends Each day will consist of two hours in the morning and afternoon with an hour for lunch $275 September 14th & 21st - 10 am to 3 pm. Lunches are included in the workshop price Presented by Ferret & Fern Garden Studio, 104 E 7th Street, Elgin FerreandFern com
Survival Bow Making
A bow is one of the oldest natural tools that humans have ever created In this class, you’ll learn how to craft a quick and powerful bow using local Ashe Juniper or “Cedar,” using nothing but a good quality outdoor knife and a hatchet. In just a matter of hours you will take a raw freshly cut sapling and turn it into an arrow shooting machine Includes methods for stringing your new bow and basic instinctive archery shooting techniques $125, Saturday, September 28, 9:00 am-4:00 pm, Presented by Earth Native School, 137 Woodview Lane, Bastrop EarthNativeSchool com
KatyGassaway,OwnerBodyandShine Wellness
Historic LCRA property is now home to Willow Riverside Retreat & Event Center Besides event facilities, there are nine guest suites, all situated adjacent to Fisherman Park and the Colorado River at 1405 Willow Street WillowRiverside com
Now Open!
House guests need their own space? The Hill RV Park is now open across from the entrance to Bastrop State Park Future amenities will include a pool and a general store 2801 E Loop 150, Bastrop, (512) 303-1010, TheHillRV com
Radiant Juice Bar is back in their original, newly updated location at 702 Main St #103, Bastrop Besides juices & smoothies, they now have a saladbarandotherlunchitems
Open every day except Monday 512-988-4559 BastropJuicebarcom
Out at the Community Gardens, Heroes Sports Bar has closed and Casa Chapala has opened its second Bastrop location at 1067 West Highway 71, Bastrop Chapala Fiestas and Grill is open Sunday through Saturday Therestaurantgroupwillalsoberunningthe rebranded Mr. Brew Coffee, also inside the CommunityGardens chapalafiestascom
Texas Coffee Works at 962 Highway 71 East has expanded its hours (7 am-7 pm) and its menu to includealargeselectionofhouse-madebakedgoods.
Astro Record Store has relocated to North Carolina (best of luck in his new venture) & the Painted Porched Bookshop has expanded at 912 Main St, Bastrop, almost doubling the size of the popular store owned by best-selling author Ryan Holiday and SamanthaHoliday
Smithville is expecting two new restaurants Sweet Tea Cafe on Main St and a new venue from the ownersofPockets.Detialsarelimtedatthistime.
Booking a court has never been so easy or so cool!
Lost Pines Pickle Ball Club is a new facility at 1099 Highway 71 West Bastrop offering indoor (air-conditioned) & outdoor courts, drinks, and snacks. Advance online booking only at LostPinesPBC.com (512) 985-3751
Owner DeLacey Martin.
P
U M P K I N P A N C A K E S
If you like pumpkin pie, you’ll love these fluffy and tender hotcakes The addition of a little puree to the maple syrup makes a sauce that doesn’t run and doubles down on the pumpkin spice flavor
Ingredients for Pancakes
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon white sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon table salt
1 cup pumpkin puree
2 tablespoons pumpkin pie spice
1 egg
1-1/2 cups milk
2 tablespoons melted butter
Pumpkin Pie Syrup (optional)
1/2 cup maple syrup
1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
2 tablespoons melted butter
2 tablespoons cream
2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
Instructions:
1
In a large bowl whisk all dry ingredients, flour, salt, white & brown sugar, baking soda & baking powder, and pumpkin pie spice
In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, egg, melted butter, pumpkin puree
3
2. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined Do not over-mix the batter
Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat Scoop 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan for each pancake
5.
4 Cook until bubbles form on the surface of the pancake and the edges start to dry out, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown on both sides
6
Top pancakes with a pad of butter, some maple syrup, and pumpkin seeds or pecans!
Sauce: Heat the butter and the syrup until very hot but not boiling Add cream, spices, and puree Spoon over stack and top with toasted pecans if desired
H a p p e n i n g t h i s
Sept 2 - Mon Labor Day
Sept 7, Saturday - 21st annual Down Home Ranch
Masquerade Gala: Unmask the Magic of Rustic Charm! at Bastrop Convention Center, 1408 Chestnut St. Bastrop. Concert by The Statesboro Revue, raffle prizes, a silent auction, a live auction, and a country supper Tickets at www.downhomeranch.org/news-and-events/gala/
Sept 13-29th - Bastrop Opera House Presents: Young Frankenstein- The Musical, Content Advisory Directed by: Lisa Holcomb It’s alive! The electrifying adaptation of Mel Brooks’ monstrously funny film will leave you in stitches Tickets and times available at bastropoperahouse org $30
Sept 14, Saturday - Smithville Heritage House Photography Exhibition Showcase - 6 - 9 PM An evening celebrating the community archive project participants at 602 Main St Smithville 830-839-4080, Free
Sept 14, Wine and Unwind! 6-8 pm, Paint along with instructor, Erin Nicole, as she guides you through a simple painting, beginning to end. We provide all of the supplies, and you bring your own wine or other beverage to enjoy Class is held in our beautiful, atrium-style gallery for an unforgettable experience! Be sure to register, spots are limited Ages 21+ BYOB tickets $40 LlostPinesArtCenter org
Sept 14 -Bailey's Bull Bash & Concert - Bull Riding starts at 5:00 pm followed by a great concert with Nashville recording artists Moe Bandy and Janie Fricke. Kids 5 and under are free Bull Riding - $10/advance-$15/gate Concert - $30/advance-$40/gate Find link at www eventbrite com
Sept 15 - Oct 15 - Hispanic Heritage Month
Sept 22 - CASA 15th Annual Superhero Run 5k at COTAthis is a big fundraising event & a longtime CASA Bastrop/Fayette/Lee County tradition. Kids' Fun Run, 5k, and festival Register at CasaSuperHeroRun com
September 26-29 Bastrop Music Festival - multiple venues in and around town This festival showcases the best of the state: remarkable and talented people, an independent spirit and an amazing culture https://www visitbastrop com/events/festivals/bastropmusic-festival/
Oct 3 - Rosh Hashanah
Oct 5 - Sustainable Home and Garden Show - 10am - 2pm at the Smithville Railroad Park Pavillion. Exhibits on Capturing and using rainwater,Low-water gardening, Composting, Local river and stream ecosystems, Sustainable products for sale (plants!) and more. keepsmithvillebeautiful@gmail com
FALL
Oct 5 - Saturday - Smithviille Community Garage Sale, 8 AM - 2 PM. *Registration Deadline to guarantee your 'SALE' on the Map is 10/2 106 NE 1st Street, Smithville The map will also be posted on chamber Facebook and Instagram
Oct 5th - November 3rd Community Gardens 7th Annual Pumpkin Patch - Pumpkins, train Rides, bounce house, kids activities, vendors, food, coffee, full Bar & more Go to CGBastrop com/publicevents for schedule & admission fees
Oct 12 - Yom Kippur
Oct 12 - Bastrop Co Go Texan Fall Scholarship Fundraiser5:30-10pm $75 includes ribeye dinner, dance & raffle Watterson Hall, Red Rock. Text Melissa 512-332-6171.
Oct 18-27 - Bastrop Opera House Presents: Wait Until Dark. Directed by: Christine Long. F. Knott’s play inspired the film and multiple Broadway productions earning Tony and Academy Award nominations for many of the actors including, Audrey Hepburn This adaptation captures the suspense made famous by the previous work in a new time/setting. Tickets and times available at bastropoperahouse org $25
October 19th - Saturday - WINGFEST 2024, 11:00am-4:00pm Come taste delicious wings and judge the best ones! Play Chicken Bingo, vendors & Family Fun for all! Railroad Park & Main Street Smithville SmithvilleTX org
Oct 24 - Columbus Day / Indigenous Peoples Day
Oct 24-26 - 37th Annual Elgin Hogeye FestivalThe Pearls Before Swine Art Show starts the festival in style on Thursday evening with the opening Gala sponsored by the Elgin Art Association Hogalicious Dessert Contest, Hog calling contest, Free Street Dance, arts & crafts, vendors, kids’ activities, live music, car show, & more www.elgintexas.gov/191/Hogeye-Festival
Oct 26, Saturday - Spooky Sip & Shop/Wicked Wine Fest and Zombie Zumba 2024. 5-9 PM- Downtown Smithville and Railroad Park Train Ride, Haunted Tours around town (fee), Zombie Zumba Dance Contest Downtown Smithville and Railroad Park
Oct 31 - Thursday - Halloween
Oct 31 - Bastrop Boo Bash - 6-8 PM. The event will be taking place on the north side of Chestnut – including Main Street and Spring St The library parking lot will have the Trunk or Treat area Hosted by the City of Bastrop Questions? Elisa Puentes at epuentes@cityofbastrop org or (512) 332-8989
November 3rd, Saturday - 6:30 Twelve Fires Wine Dinner at Fat Cat Lounge and Cafe Four courses with 4 wine pairings $99 00 per person or $190 for a couple Call 281-236-8007 for reservations. 301 Main St. Smithville. FatCatLoungeandCafe com
Live Music
Sept 1- Max Rios Duo Live at Neighbors Kitchen & Yard 5:pm
Sept 6- Sonny Wolf Live at 602 Brewing 8:00-11:00pm
Sept 6- Chubby Knuckle Choir Live at Neighbors Kitchen 7:30pm
Sept 6- Sean Orr Band Live at Copper Shot Distillery 6:30-9:30
Sept 7 - Eli Mosley Live at Neighbors Kitchen & Yard 7:30
Sept 7 - Spicy Loops Live at Copper Shot Distillery 7:00-10:pm
Sept 8 Thursday Night Jeffersons at Rising Sun Vineyard 2-5:pm
Sept 8- Nick Ray Live at Neighbors Kitchen & Yard 5:00pm
Sept 8 - Main Gallery Smithville - Danny Schmidt, 2:pm
Sept 13- Taylor Hughes Live at Neighbors Kitchen 7:30pm
Sept 13- Rock ATX live at Copper Shot Distillery 7:00-10:pm
Sept 14- Etta Place Live at Neighbors Kitchen & Yard 7:30pm
Sept 15- Sky Zito Live at Neighbors Kitchen & Yard 5:pm
Sept 20- The Matthew Robinson Band - Neighbors Kitchen 7:30pm
Sept 20- Whitestone Live at Copper Shot Distillery 7:00-10:pm
Sept 21- Kathy Murray and the Kilowatts - Neighbors Kitchen 7:30
Sept 21- Tish & the Mizzbehavins - Copper Shot Distillery 7:-10 pm
Sept 22- Wook Wizard Live at Neighbors Kitchen & Yard 5:pm
Sept 27- The Dizzy Bangers Live at Copper Shot Distillery 7-10:pm
Sept 28- Dom Cours & Company at Copper Shot 7:00-10:pm
Sept 29- JUSTHANNAH Live at Rising Sun Vinyard 2:00-5:pm
Oct 4-Rand Buster & Randy Collier at Neighbors Kitchen 7:pm
Oct 4 Ben Zuniga Band Live at Copper Shot Distillery 7-10:pm
Oct 5 Soul Shaker Live at Copper Shot Distillery 7:00-10:pm
Information was accurate at the time of printing but subject to change. Call ahead to confirm, please.
Oct 11 Phil Hurley & Very Special Friends at Neighbors 7:pm
Oct 11 Rock House Live at Copper Shot Distillery 7:00-10:pm
Oct 12 The New Essentials Live at Neighbors Kitchen 7:pm
Oct 13 Michelle Kay Live at Neighbors Kitchen & Yard 5:pm
Oct 18 Natalie Metcalf Live at Neighbors Kitchen & Yard 7:pm
Oct 18 Keaton Kyzar Live at Copper Shot Distillery 7:00-10:pm
Oct 19 Monte Good Band Live at Neighbors Kitchen & Yard 7:pm
Oct 20 Lizze Street Live at Neighbors Kitchen & Yard 5:pm
Oct 25 Vin Mott Live at Neighbors Kitchen & Yard 7:00
Oct 25 Marcus Morales Band Live at Copper Shot 7-10pm
Oct 26 Rochelle and the Sidewinders - Neighbors Kitchen 7:pm
Oct 27 Danny Brooks & Lil Miss Debbie Live at Neighbors, 5:pm
Dugson Dogs is such a good dog! Sidewalk, 904 Main St, Bastrop DugsonDogs com Congratulations on another 100% clean inspection from the city
Happening Every Month
Live music at Storehouse Market & Eatery- Wednesdays 7-9 PM
1st Thursday Downtown Smithville - Shops & pop-ups open 5-8 PM Specials/discounts, food/ drink samples
The Painted Porch Bookshop Story Hour- Thursdays at 10:30
Bingo at Bastrop Beer Co - Wednesdays 7-9 PM
Elgin Sip, Shop & Stroll- 2nd Thursday Downtown, 5 -8 PM
Art After Dark Lost Pines Art Center- First Saturday, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM -art, live music & refreshments
Trivia Nights Bastrop Beer Co. - Thursdays 7-9 PM
Comedy Standup at Film Alley - Saturdays - See times https://bastrop filmalley net/
Open Ride Day at Mayfest Park- 1st & 3rd Tuesdays 8AM-10PM - Bring your horse and practice running the barrels, roping, riding Free www cityofbastrop org/page/parks home
Smithville Brewing Company. Live music every Sunday starting at 4pm.
Farm Street Opry - 1st Thursday 5:30 Doors open 7:pm Show Starts Country Music at the Bastrop Convention Center Family-friendly entertainment Take a spin on our back-of-the-house dance floor!
Yoga on the Farm - Saturdays 9:30 to 10:30 am at Edin East, 1910 Main, Bastrop
Bastrop Market Days- First Saturday 10-5 PM, Main Street Bastrop, Local Vendors & Shops Line the Streets
Prime Show Properties
JUST REDUCED
130 Mountain Laurel Colovista -$697,900
Owner Finance
Opportunity! First time on the market for this home on the beautiful ColoVista golf course So much room for entertaining and a floor plan that gives everyone their own space
KarenDerrRealtyGroup
Phone512-720-8290 1010ChestnutStBastrop
LIST WITH THE KAREN DERR REALTY GROUP AND HAVE YOU HOME
FEATURED HERE FOR FREE!
UNDER CONTRACT
713 Chestnut St, Bastrop
$840,000
Almost 3600 sf, single level, lots of storefront exposure on busy Chestnut
Beautifully finished with 3 modern baths, a kitchenette, access from city parking lot
Karen Derr
Karen Derr Realty Group
Phone 512-720-8290
Karen Derr@compass com
464E LowerLine,LaGrange
$275.000
FarmhouseintheheartofLa Grangezonedcommercialor residential 1525sqft,2beds,1 5baths Thirdofanacrelot
Karen Derr Realty Group
Phone: 512-720-8290
1010 Chestnut St. Bastrop
JUST REDUCED
115 Rainmaker Cv
Pecan Park -$425,000
4 Bed/4 Bath
First time on the market!
This seller's transfer is your chance to own an ALMOST NEW home with lots of bells and whistles already installed.
Phone713-594-5295
Paula.Collins@gmail.com
JonRyan
KarenDerrRealtyGroup
Phone512-701-3642
Jon Ryan@compass com Thinking of Selling?
450 Woods Prairie
Cemetery Ln, West Point
$1,100,000 REDUCED!
14 40 acres in the West Point area of La Grange 2013 custom-built Country Cottage +/- 3000 sqft, 4 beds, 3 baths. Includes large workshop/barn, equipment shed.
Agricultural exemption 5 minutes to Smithville.
Paula Collins@gmail com
VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE ABOUT OUR UPCOMING TOURS
January 31 - February 6, 2025- MEXICO - OAXACA CITY
Explore Oaxaca City’s contemporary art and historic culture plus the Monte Alban ruins
February 7-14, 2025-MEXICO - OAXACA FOLK ART
Oaxaca City and explore the folk art of surrounding villages
March 10 - 20, 2025 - MEXICO - CHIAPAS
Enjoy Chiapas state’s natural beauty, rich culture & arts
June 12-23 - BOLIVIA
Bolivia’s highlands including Sucre & La Paz
July 2 - 11, 2025 - GUATEMALA - ANTIGUA & LAKE ATITLÁN
The art and culture of Antigua & the villages on Lake Atitlán
CAMIBAculturaltoursembodiesthe essenceofworldtravelasit influencestheartculture.Our excursionsgivetour-goersan intimateglimpseattheprocess behindthemasterpieceaswellasthe artiststhemselves.Weoffertoursto agrowingnumberofdestinations includingCuba,OaxacaMexico,San MigueldeAllendeMexico,Mexico City,Argentina,Guatemala&Peru. 512-937-5921
CAMIBAculturaltours.com
D
The Blood Moon The Blood Moon The Blood Moon
Ingredients
1 5 oz Bourbon
75 oz apple cider
.75 oz lemon juice
5 oz Thyme simple syrup
5 oz Ancho Reyes
1 egg
5 oz port wine (or any red wine, but port will provide the best flavor)
Add all ingredients besides port wine to shaker Shake vigorously for 30 seconds without ice Add ice, shake till the shaker is frosted. Strain over a big rock in a rocks glass Carefully pour 1/2 oz of port wine over the back of a spoon over the surface to “float” the wine on the cocktail Cheers!
Thyme simple syrup:
Add small handful of thyme to pot with 1 cup water and 1 cup sugar. Bring to boil and simmer for 15 minutes, then strain out the thyme Yield 1 pint
Ancho Reyes:
Delicious ancho chili liqueur Wonderful to have stocked in any home bar to add depth and complexity to any of your favorite drinks To substitute Ancho Reyes, infuse 2 oz of bourbon with 4-6 small slices of jalapeño for a few hours Use the full 2 oz in the cocktail, and increase the thyme simple to .75 oz.
This cocktail was developed by Storehouse Market and Eatery’s own Wesley Stewart (see page 4) -- a man who clearly loves his work and so do we And yes, Blood Moon will be available at Storehouse; just ask Photo by Brigid Myles StorehouseBastrop com, 803 Main St Bastrop
It's not too early to stock up on pipe insulation and hose bib covers while they are in stock
Have your heating system serviced or assess heaters before the winter rush and lower inventories
As days start to get shorter, check outdoor lights and replace bulbs
Change your AC filters and also clean vents. Mildew around vents can mean the duct isn't properly attached in the attic
Clean out flower beds and mulch
Take down soil/mulch that has become too high against foundation
Check your chimney for blockages Make sure your damper is working
Prune any overgrown limbs away from your roof so none are touching or scraping to damage shingles or metal
Check windows and screens for damage Mowing may have thrown a rock or two into panes.
acollection ofHallOween tales
Aghoststorylooselybasedonarealexperience. ByPattyReid Illustration&FontDesignbyNathanielReidBrophy
OnadarkandstormynightMary,Dinah,andFrancesdroveintoa deepforest.Theywerefriendsfromhighschoolhavinga weekendreuniontogetreacquainted
HeadingtoacabinownedbyMarywhichwassupposedly haunted,theybeganreminiscingaboutalong-agohighschool Halloweenslumberparty Alltheirgirlfriendshadbeenluredto anabandonedhouseinthecountry,thinkingitwasahaunted house.
Theyounggirlswerelaughingandimaginingtherewereghostly soundscomingfromtheatticwhensuddenlyagruesomeface appearedatthewindow Thegirlsscreamedandsomeofthem cried Thefaceturnedouttobeoneofthegirl’suncleswitha nylonhoseonhisheadwhohadplannedthetricktoscarethem
Nowheretheywereheadedtoanotherdesertedhousewitha disturbingpast Amysteriousdeathofayoungbrideoccurred thereafewyearsback Thehusband,whowasMary’sbrother, hadbeenasuspectbutwasnevercharged Themurderwas neversolvedandrumorsofstrangesoundsandghostly apparitionswerestillwhisperedaboutbythecommunity
Thethreefriendswerefilledwithanticipationastheyarrivedat thecabin Theyhopedthatmaybetheywouldfindcluesthat wouldhelpthemsolvethemysteryandevenpossiblywitnessa ghost
Thestormcontinuedfiercely Rainpoureddownastheyentered thecabinandthebranchesofthetreeswerescratchingatthe windows Thegirlsshiveredandlaughednervouslyasthey settledinfortheirfirstnight
By local writers, perfect to read aloud.
Theymadeafireintheoldstonefireplace,fixedalightmeal,and gatheredaroundthefirewithdrinks Theytalkedandgiggled, reminiscingaboutoldexperiences.Aroundmidnight,theybegan toyawnandtheydecidedtogetreadyforbed Againthey huggedandpledgedtobealerttoanystrangesoundsorvisions Beforetheymadeittotheirrooms,aloudnoisestartledthem Eerily,itsoundedlikeascreamoracryforhelp Theygrabbed eachother’shandsandrushedtoawindowtoseewherethe soundwascomingfrom
Astheystaredouttherain-streakedwindow,afaceappeared
Thegirlsjumpedbackstartled
“Whatwasthat?Didyouseeit?”Dinahasked “Yes!,”MaryandFrancescriedinunison
“Butit’sgonenow;maybeitwasjustourimagination,”Marysaid “No,weallsawit Let’sinvestigate;openthedoorandwelcomeit in”Francesbravelysaid
SuddenlyMaryturnedandslappedFrancesonhercheek Itleft redimprintsofherfingers Frances’seyesfilledwithtearsasshe asked,“Whydidyoudothat!”
“Idon’tknow!I’msorry!Icouldn’tcontrolmyhand!”Marycried withrealfearonherface
Dinahbegantoshakeuncontrollablythenhereyesglazedover asshefellintoacatatonicstate
Therewasatapatthewindowandthefaceappearedagain This timeithadamenacinglookandbeganmoaning.Eachgirlhearda differentmessage
Marythoughtthefacemoaned,“Death,death!”
Francesheard,“Helpme,helpme!”
Dinahwhowascomingaroundheard,“Danger,danger!”
Asthefriendshuddledtogether,thefacefinallydisappearedinto thedarkness.Aftercalmingdown,andasthestormsubsided, theydecidedtheirimaginationshadgottenoutofcontrol They wenttobed
Thesunroseonaquietmorning Thestormwasgoneandlight madethingslookalmostnormal WhenMarycameoutofher room,shenoticedthatthefrontdoorwaswideopen As sherushedtocloseit,shesawDinahsittingonthecouch The catatoniclookhadreturnedtoherface;shecouldbarelyspeak “Whathappened?WhereisFrances?”Marymanagedtoask Dinahwasgrippedbyfearandcouldn’tanswer.
Marycalledthesheriff,butafteralonginvestigation,Franceswas notfound Justasbefore,therewerenoclues
DidFrancesopenthedoortotheghost?Wemayneverknow A murderneversolved,afriendneverfound,andonefriendgripped byfear,stillcan’trememberwhathappenedthatnight Marysoldthecabinbutstillhasnightmaresaboutthefaceatthe window Thecabinisabandonedandcrumbling Ifyouhappento comeacrossitonedayinruralTexas,donotenterasnoone knowswhatsecretsitholdsorwhenthefacemightreappear
Forsight’s Place
by Sheri Godwin Sheri
is a Central Texas writer who is still fascinated by the supernatural She swears her Granny really did call the grandkids the term of endearment in the story and that the chair really moved
OnenightwhenIwasasophomoreinhighschool,mybestfriend Tinaspentthenightatmyhousebecausewehadabasketball tournamentthenextday TinaandIwerereallyboredsoI suggestedwewalkuptoForsight’sPlaceandcheckitout She agreedthatitcouldbefun Wegotreadytostartthehalf-miletrek throughtheupperthreepasturesofmyGranny’s300-acrecattle ranch Itwasalreadydarkbutthatwaspartofthefun
IgrabbedaflashlightfromthegarageandTinagrabbedthe basketballfromthenearbycourt Oneofourfavoritethingstodo wasplaybasketball Ifwewentanywhere,wehadabasketball withus
Aswesteppedontothecattletrailandbeganourjourney,Tina asked,“What’sthedealaboutthisForsight’sPlace?”Ithad dawnedonherthatsheshouldhaveaskedaboutthisbeforeshe agreedtogo.
“Well,”Iansweredhesitantly,“Grannysaysthatit’stheoriginal homesteadbuiltbackinthe19thcenturyandisover100years old It’satwo-storyTexasHillCountrystonehome Kindalikethe onenearyourhouseintown.
“So it’snothaunted,oranythingisit?”Tinaaskedassheturned aroundtofakeleftandthenbreakrightwiththeballinherhands
“I’mnotsure,”Iansweredasshepretendedtodribblearoundme “Onetimeacalfwanderedintothehomeandcouldn’tgetout Grannycouldhearthemommacowcryingandwenttoseewhat wasgoingon Aftershegotthecalfbacktoitsmomma,shewent backintothehometoseeifshecouldfindsomethingtoblockthe doorway Shesaidtherewasanoldrockingchairinthehouse,and shesawitmove”
Tinaquicklyscoffedandsaid,“Well,thatdoesn’tsoundscary“
“ThatiswhatItoldGranny Itwasprobablythewindmakingit rock Granny’sanswerwas,‘Didn’tsayIsawitrocking IsaidIsaw itmove!’”
Grannyhadscoldedme,“Youturdhead,don’tyouyoung’unsever listen?”Afterthat,Ididn’taskmuchelse
Thehomewasonasmallhillandlookedominousstandingthere aloneinthemoonlight Notfardownthehillyoucouldseethe silhouetteofanoldwell,asheepshed,andawatertroughunder sometrees Wehoistedourselvesupthestepsandwentinside I scannedaroundwiththeflashlight
Thefirstfloorwasjustabigroomwithstairsinthemiddleanda fireplaceateachend Otherthansomehay,rustedcoffeecans, feedbags,andafewscattereddishes,therewasnothingelse
“Let’sgoupstairs,”Tinasaid Ishinedthelightaswewalkedover tothestairs “Wait”shesnappedasshewalkedbacktothedoor andgrabbedthebasketball “Let’sseewhatitsoundsliketo dribbletheballupstairs.”
We climbed the stairs and we both gasped as the flashlight lit the room up enough to see it There it was The old rocking chair It was smack dab in the middle of the room
“Well, there’s the rocking chair,” I whispered. “It’s not moving,” she whispered back
“Of course not!” I said in my normal voice, although probably louder. “This is ridiculous! There is nothing to be afraid of.”
“Wow, this room is as big as a basketball court ” Tina started dribbling the ball around and the sound echoed loudly as it banged on the floor with a twang over and over again The noise was deafening so Tina stopped and sat the ball down on the floor We sat down cross-legged and started to gossip and chat about boys.
“Hey,” Tina said “Didn’t I sit the ball down right there?”
“It’s way over there now,” I answered “It had to have rolled over there There must be a slope in the floor or maybe even the house itself ” Just then the ball started to roll toward me Tina and I looked at each other, our eyes wide When it reached me, I pushed the ball back towards the direction it came from It stopped right where it was before Then it moved in Tina’s direction, first with a jerk forward and then it slowed, as if it were pushed We found ourselves mesmerized and we had no idea why we were not scared out of our minds We just kept rolling the ball back and forth to the same spot on the floor and each time it came back to us We were so busy playing we did not notice the rocking chair was gone
“Where did the chair go?” Tina asked loudly I grabbed the flashlight and shined it around the room. “Holy crap! It’s moved over by the stairs ” Tina and I looked at each other “I know now what Granny meant It doesn’t rock! The entire freaking chair moves!”
We ran towards the stairs Tina was down the steps in a flash but as I was about to follow, the rocking chair hit me behind my knees. I was knocked into the chair with a force so hard, it teetered at the top of the stairs, on the brink of falling with me in it
Tina had stopped to look back for me Just as the chair was about to fall, something grabbed my arms and pulled me out of the chair onto the floor at the top of the stairs I turned to see the chair crash down and break into a hundred pieces.
Tina, in shock, pointed behind me I turned and saw a young boy in old clothes. He was transparent and glowed like the moonlight I thanked him He smiled Then he just disappeared The basketball rolled towards me I was going to grab it, but I decided to leave it there
Tina and I went home but we didn’t say a word We just went to bed and got up the next day and went to the basketball tournament like nothing had happened.
Perfect
By Lissa Johnston
The pull-down stairs that led into the attic creaked as Sandy tugged on the rope handle She still couldn’t believe her luck The house she had fallen in love with so many years ago while watching a movie, of all the crazy things had come up for sale again This time, the real estate stars had aligned Interest rates were down; it was a buyer’s market; and she had just enough saved to make the down payment Although she still wasn’t sure why the sellers were so quick to agree to her absurdly low counteroffer Sandy had wanted to ask them herself at closing, but they arranged for a proxy and didn’t appear in person “Who knows why?” her realtor had said “It’s a gorgeous home Perfect, just as it is It’s up to you But if you don’t grab this offer, someone else will ”
The realtor was right It was a gorgeous home Legend had it, the original owner was a railroad tycoon and took great pains to build the perfect home for his wife, whom he adored Its Neoclassical columns curving around the front were Sandy’s favorite thing about it That, and the trees And the high ceilings And the large windows
Lissa Johnston is a Smithville based author who just published her latest book, Ventured, available on Amazon com Ventured is the story of Belle, a young pickpocket rounded up by French authorities and shipped to coastal Texas to help establish a French settlement in the New World
The house even came with an adorable no-name tortie barn cat One of the neighbors explained that the cat was neutered, and had no interest in entering the home But she definitely expected her kibble bowl to be filled twice daily Sandy had moved her food bowl several times to avoid tripping over it Every morning, it was back at its original place near the back steps She still wasn’t sure how the cat was doing that
It had been a frustrating day Sandy had arranged for an electrician to come out and give her a bid on adding some exterior lighting As lovely as the home was during the day, there were definitely some gloomy areas on the property once night fell The electrician was local and had been referred by her realtor He wasn’t exactly energized about making the updates He walked the property with her that morning, listening to her ideas She invited him in for some iced tea, but he demurred “I’ve worked on this house a few times, ma’am,” were his parting words as he stood at the curb near his truck “A home like this, sometimes they don’t take too kindly to big changes It looks perfect to me ” He agreed to give her a bid, but Sandy had a feeling she would need to reach out to another contractor.
After lunch, Sandy was excited to start on one of her many painting projects The interiors were in great shape; just not her style White paint throughout Traditional, but not what she had in mind for her bedroom She had chosen a gallon of one of Pantone’s Colors of the Year, Serenity But when she opened the lid to pour it into the paint tray, the paint was white She checked the lid and sure enough, the little dot of sample color was the pink Serenity she had requested Clearly a mixing mix-up So she set that aside and planned for yet another trip to the hardware store tomorrow
Sandy spent the rest of the day unpacking The next thing she knew, it was dark out She flipped the switch in the hallway Nothing happened The electrician had mentioned the breaker boxes were in the attic She hadn’t been up there yet A quick look, maybe just a flip of the switch would be all it took, and she could check off at least one more project for the day
A board creaked She knew it was silly She was the only one here, but she turned to look anyway A dim figure emerged from the darkness, dressed impeccably in nineteenth-century attire He reached toward her, his skeletal hand brushing her arm “You mustn't worry about that now, my dear,” he said “This house is perfect, just as it is ”
Landscaping with Natives
Possumhaw Yaupon Holly
Prairie Verbena Texas Sage
Flame Acanthus
Turks Cap
BastropFavorites 6
We asked the official Plant Guy at Community Gardens, William Solomon, to give us his top six favorite Texas native landscape plants
It’s a subject he’s passionate about and he stocks many of these throughout the year at the gardens at 1067 Hwy 71 W, Bastrop cgbastropcom
Possumhaw Yaupon Holly: Phenomenal specimen plant that is hardy and adaptable with a stunning winter interest which most yards are lacking during the winter season
Stunningly different from all the evergreens that people use Deer Tolerant
Texas Sage: Reliable, adaptable, xeric, and resilient Good color, widely available, blooms with pressure changes (hence its nickname the barometer plant), a great plant for those burning afternoon sunspots Deer Tolerant
Turks Cap: Formidable all-rounder, able to deal with most soils, sun conditions, and water levels, though does best with a little shade Showy red flowers for most of the year with a good size that is not too small but not too big so it's just right for any yard
Prairie Verbena: Formidable, showy, and just a phenomenal plant, Underutilized in our landscapes, able to do with many different light conditions, with very showy purple flowers that last almost all year Drought tolerant, sun tolerant, deer tolerant
Flame Acanthus- Xeric, deer tolerant, showy in the hottest times of the year, able to withstand most soils, amazing for hummingbirds and butterflies! This is a showstopping bush in the summer, blooming more when it rains Great mixed in beds to provide color and interest on many levels
Guara (shown on this page): Heat-loving perennial, a personal favorite of mine, that has showy blooms with great color that stand tall above the plant Can sit in the front border of most beds, with the bases sitting low, shooting up wands that reach taller in their blooming months (hence their other name wandflower) Mulch well in winter, not known to be the most cold hardy, but I would say they are on par with lantanas
Honorable Mentions:
Blue Gramma Grass and The Muhly Grasses
Elbow Bush Retama Blanket Flower
Chef Sonya Cote
Guara photo by Pam Penick Author of Lawn Gone! Penick net
