EXPLORE - July 2023

July 2023

history: + local first families of kendall county

batty at + get old tunnel state park of: + art bill stevens

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July

TABLE OF CONTENTS REAL ESTATE: THE LITTLE MERMAID AND REAL ESTATE

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CELEBRATE

LOCAL HISTORY: FIRST FAMILIES OF KENDALL COUNTY

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GO & DO: GET BATTY

15

NEWS

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BOOKS

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ART OF

22 DAY TRIP: PEDERNALES FALLS STATE PARK

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PUBLISHER Lauren Stumberg lauren@distinctmediatx.com

MUSIC

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

30

FUN & GAMES

Like EXPLORE? You'll Love Our Sister Publications too!

GRAPHIC DESIGN/ PHOTOGRAPHY Megan Smart megan@distinctmediatx.com ADVERTISING SALES (210) 219-6735 info@distinctmediatx.com EXPLORE magazine is published by Distinct Media LLC in Boerne, TX. EXPLORE Magazine and Distinct Media LLC are not responsible for any inaccuracies, erroneous information, or typographical errors contained in this publication submitted by advertisers. Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the opinions of EXPLORE and/or Distinct Media LLC. Copyright 2023 Distinct Media LLC, Boerne, TX 78006.

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CELEBRATE

AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE DESERVES MORE THAN JUST ONE DAY OF CELEBRATION – LET’S REJOICE IN OUR FREEDOMS ALL MONTH LONG! Here are some fun facts about the history of Independence Day and our current 4th of July celebrations:

America celebrates its

247 july 2 , 1776 birthday hot dogs th

congress officially declared its independence from britain on nd

65% of americans

benjamin franklin wanted the national bird to be a

turkey

he said the bald eagle was a bird of bad moral character and preferred the more “respectable” turkey

are the favorite 4th of july food: america eats about 150 million hot dogs on this date! wow!

each year americans set off about

200of fireworks million pounds - that’s appox.

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own an american flag!

$247 million worth!!!

"One flag, one land, one heart, one hand, one nation evermore!"

- Oliver Wendell Holmes

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Tusculum Brewing Company includes a brewery, taproom, and light fare! We offer beer made in house, sourced wine, champagne, and cider.

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NEWS

Y

ou just thought Hill Country Distillers left Comfort for Kerrville. But surprise, surprise, surprise! They are reopening in Comfort. Same place…similar time.

Beginning Friday, July 7, Hill Country Distillers will be open Fridays from 2 pm to 6 pm and Saturdays from noon to 6 pm. They will not have their extensive cocktail menu available, so please understand that your favorite cocktail may not be available. The distillery is reopening to sell bottles, cocktails, and what retail items they still have at reduced prices. Visit them to get a bottle and some swag!

While they are reopening, the goal is to permanently shut down the distillery operations by the end of the year. They will not be distilling any additional spirits, but have LOTS of spirits in barrels and tanks that need to be sold. This is part of the reason why the drink menus will be more limited as they will not be continuously making things like the dulce liqueurs.

Hill Country Distillers are still limited by TABC to sell only two 750ml bottles per person per 30 days.

Effective September 1st, they will be able to increase that from 2 to 4 bottles! Stock up while it lasts!

VISIT THEM AT 723 FRONT STREET COMFORT, TEXAS

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FOR ALL OF LIFE'S CELEBRATIONS

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LOCAL HISTORY

The First Families of Kendall County

S

ponsored by the Genealogical Society of Kendall County (GSKC), The First Families of Kendall County project began in 1999. The purpose of this project is to recognize the living descendants of persons instrumental in founding and settling of the area encompassed by present day Kendall County, Texas and to preserve the history of their families and the county.

To date, 586 applications have been approved for 318 different individuals. One hundred seventy (170) Founders and one hundred four (104) Early Settlers have been documented and recognized. They represent one hundred thirty-five (135) different families in Kendall County. There are two hundred sixty-two (262) volumes of First Families notebooks on the shelves at the Family History Place.

FOUNDER GEORG HERMANN WILLE 1827 – 1870 MARIE METZDORF 1834 – 1923 Information courtesy of the Genealogical Society of Kendall County

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Here we will share with you some of the stories of those First Families who settled this beautiful area of the Texas hill country.

We hope you enjoy!

To learn more about The First Families of Kendall County project visit www.gskctx.org or stop by the Family History Place at 114 E. Blanco in Boerne.

Follow on Facebook at Facebook.com/GenealogicalSocietyOfKendallCounty

G

eorg Hermann Wille was born in Luhnde, Hanover, Prussia, to Christopher Wille, a German Professor, and Louise Meier. Little else is known of his early life, other than he immigrated to the United States in 1849 a twenty-one-year-old man. Even less is known about Marie Metzdof’s origins. Her mother was Charlotte Sablowsky, but the family does not have a record of her father’s first name. Her father died and her mother remarried. The man’s surname was said to be Puzzas, but we cannot find that surname in either Family Search or Ancestry, nor does it appear in any of

“ Marie was suitably impressed, and they married in San Antonio on September 29, 1853. On August 16, 1855, Hermann and Marie became the proud parents of Augusta, the first girl born in the town of Comfort, Texas.”

the ship’s passenger lists we checked. In 1851, Marie emigrated from Tilist, Prussia, to Texas with her mother, her sister, Sara, her half-sister, Henrietta, and her stepfather.

According to Hermann’s citizenship papers, he arrived in New Orleans, Louisiana, on or about June 26, 1849. The following September, he and a man named William Ranger were lodging with a bookbinder named C. W. Klastermeyer in Fayette County, Texas. His occupation was listed as “gunsmith.”

Not long after that, Hermann moved to Comfort, Texas, where he worked as a blacksmith and hauled freight to and from San Antonio.

“According to Hermann’s citizenship papers, he arrived in New Orleans, Louisiana, on or about June 26, 1849.”

Marie’s journey to Galveston was marred by tragedy. Her sister Sara died during the voyage and her mother, Charlotte, died shortly after the family arrived in Galveston. The surviving members of the family traveled from Galveston to San Antonio.

Marie’s stepfather found her a job as a maid in the King William area and then took Henrietta and went to Mexico. Marie was seventeen years old, and on her on.

One can easily imagine how Hermann and Marie meet. He was likely hauling freight to San Antonio and lodged where Marie happened to be working. He was handsome and had a business; she was pretty, petite, and self-assured. Wille was obviously smitten by this young lady. To illustrate; family stories claim that when Wille proposed to Marie, she turned him down because he had no house or furniture. Hermann returned to Comfort and proceeded to build a house, obtain some furniture, and propose again. That’s smitten! Marie was suitably impressed, and they married in San Antonio on September 29, 1853. On August 16, 1855, Hermann and Marie became the proud parents of Augusta, the first girl born in the town of Comfort, Texas.

Hermann continued to work building and repairing wagons, hauling freight, and doing general blacksmith work. In 1857, their second daughter, Louise, was born, and two years later, they were blessed with a third daughter, Sarah. That same year, 1859, a petition was circulated to form a new county, Kendall, from parts of Blanco and Kerr Counties. Like many of the settlers in and around Comfort, Hermann signed the petition against forming Kendall County. They were satisfied living in the newly formed Kerr County and did not wish to be annexed to Kendall County. The 1860 U. S. Census for Kerr County listed Hermann as a Master Blacksmith. A man named William Kiechler was living with them. He was also a blacksmith and most likely an employee of Hermann Wille.

1861 brought the Wille family a set of twin daughters.

Hermine was born February 7, and sister Bertha was born February 8. Hermann was called to serve in the Texas State Troops during the Civil War and appeared on the October 1863 muster roll of the Kendall County Squad of Cavalry, 31st Brigade

“The census listed Marie as head of household, running a blacksmith shop. In addition to her eight children, two hired blacksmiths were living with them.” as a Private. In April 1864, Marie gave birth to their first son, Otto. A second son, Hugo, was born in February 1866.

1869 began well; Marie and Hermann had another daughter, Ida, in January. The family and the business seemed to be thriving. However, near the end of the year, Hermann hauled a load of freight to San Antonio in wet, cold weather and became ill. The illness progressed and on January 14, 1870, Hermann died of pneumonia at the age of forty-two. Once again, Marie was left on her own, only this time she had eight children, ranging in age from 14-year-old Augusta to one-year-old Ida. That self-assured independence that had attracted Hermann Wille’s attention back in 1852 was still there. She took over operations of the blacksmith shop and her family continued to prosper. The census listed Marie as head of household, running continued on page 13

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BOOKS

Mary Bryan Stafford,

M

ary Bryan Stafford is seventh generation Texan and a member of The Daughters of the Republic of Texas. She graduated from The College of William and Mary in Virginia with degrees in English and Spanish, but got back to Texas on the fast train.

She and her husband now live the Hill Country near Austin where she spends her time writing and training her two horses.

An award-winning author, she was a quarterfinalist in the Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award Contest and is published in the anthology Women Write about the Southwest, winner of the Willa Award, in the anthology The Noble Generation III and many times in the Texas Poetry Calendar.

A Wasp in the Fig Tree, an intimate view into the South Texas politics of the Parrs told from the point of view of a young girl, has been awarded the 2014 Best Historical Fiction by Texas Association of Authors in addition to its winning First Place in the 2012 Writers’ League of Texas Contest in mainstream fiction as well as First Place in the Pacific Northwest Writers Association contest for coming-of-age fiction.

Her second novel, The Last Whippoorwill, set in the early 1900’s is the story of a mother and daughter and a winner in the Pacific Northwest Writers Association contest for historical fiction.

In her latest novel, The Music Box, Mary Bryan Stafford, in collaboration with Jerrilyn Burrer McLerran, Fredericksburg

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AUTHOR

native and descendant of early Fredericksburg settlers, tells the story of two women, as contentious as the North and South, who must survive when their husbands leave to fight on opposite sides in the Civil War. Romance brings them to the frontier—the dream of promised land—but the cost is beyond their imagination. The Music Box is awarded First Place in Historical Fiction 2022 by The Texas Authors Institute of History.

marylynn@mstafford.net http://www.marybryanstafford

I grew up in South Texas and was a niece in the infamous family of patrón George Parr, the Duke of Duval. I am seventh generation Texan and, although a member of The Daughters of the Texas Republic, I wandered away for a while and graduated from The College of William and Mary in Virginia with degrees in English and Spanish. I live at home in the Texas Hill Country with my husband, two horses and a couple of shepherds.

Visit The Boerne Bookshop 153 S. Main St. #120 Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 249-0000

TheBoerneBookshop.com

continued from page 11

a blacksmith shop. In addition to her eight children, two hired blacksmiths were living with them.

In 1873, Louise Wille married a blacksmith named Phillip Jacob Gass, who emigrated from Nassau, Prussia. By 1880, Jacob was running the blacksmith shop while Louise maintained the household. In addition to her three daughters, Louise’s brother, Otto, lived there and worked as a laborer at the blacksmith shop. Maire was living a few doors away with her two youngest children, Hugo and Ida. Augusta (Doebbler), Sarah (Karger), and Hermine (Norris) married between 1875 and 1878 and lived with their husbands on nearby farms. Otto acquired 150 acres near Waring in 1883 and married Bertha Zoeller in 1886.

Bertha Wille married a blacksmith named Andrew Anderson in 1890. By 1900, Andrew ran the blacksmith shop and Marie lived with them. Jacob Gass continued to operate a blacksmith shop at his farm that he bought in 1882. When the 1910 census was taken, Marie lived with her daughter Louise Gass. Jacob Gass was 64 and still owned a blacksmith shop.

In 1920, she was living with her son Otto, and it was there that she died in July 1923. She is buried beside Hermann in the Comfort Cemetery.

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA!

OPEN DAILY 3PM-MIDNIGHT | 512 RIVER RD. | BOERNE, TX

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GO & DO

E

ACH YEAR, DURING THE MONTHS OF MAY THROUGH OCTOBER, VISITORS CAN WATCH THE NIGHTLY EMERGENCE OF A COLONY OF MEXICAN FREETAILED BATS AT THE OLD TUNNEL STATE

PARK. AS THEY EMERGE, THE BATS SPIRAL UPWARDS IN A COUNTER-CLOCKWISE DIRECTION TO GAIN ALTITIUDE. AERIEL PREDATORS, LIKE REDTAILED HAWKS, SOMETIMES CATCH THE BATS IN THE AIR, WHILE TERRESTRIAL PREDATORS, LIKE RACCOONS, WILL FEED ON THE FALLEN BATS. RANGERS LEAD NIGHTLY PROGRAMS ON THE BATS DURING THESE MONTHS THAT BEGIN 30 MINUTES PRIOR TO THE EMERGENCE.

It’s Time to

GET BATTY!

EXPERIENCE THE BAT EMERGENCE AT OLD TUNNEL STATE PARK

ADVANCED TICKETS ARE REQUIRED! Visit TPWD.TEXAS.GOV for More Info & to Purchase Tickets

Unplug with a Good Book in Kendall County’s Bookstore

Open 10-6 Sunday-Thursday 10-8 Friday & Saturday 153 S. Main St. #120 Boerne, TX 78006 830-249-0000 www.TheBoerneBookshop.com Dale@TheBoerneBookshop.com

We focus on a high-quality experience with books that appeal to all readers.

Having a wide range of topics and an eclectic mixture in all areas is a point of pride for us. We want to both provide the books our customers are seeking and expose them to books that will intrigue them. To this end we seek to engage with our customers on what they read and the topics that interest them. And if we don’t have something you want, we can get it.

Visiting Authors on Saturdays 1-3 pm | Wine & Write on the last Thursday of the month 7-9 pm WWW.HILLCOUNTRYEXPLORE.COM

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ART OF

Bill Stevens The Spirit of the West

Moore on Art by Deva Moore

T

he cowboy capital of the world is Bandera, Texas and that town houses a Gold Card lifetime member of the Professional Cowboys Association. Bill Stevens is that man, well, that cowboy! He is also an artist extraordinaire that paints, sculpts, draws cartoons and rodeos! His work has been widely collected in both public, private and even corporate collections all over the United States and abroad. His work has been exhibited in many prestigious western art shows. Stevens’ life full of experiences as a professional rodeo cowboy and extraordinary artist has allowed his super ability to bring all of it to life on canvas and in clay. Not to mention in his cartoons. Bill has competed successfully in bareback and saddle bronc, bull riding, calf roping and team roping events. While in college competing in intercollegiate rodeos, he qualified for the NIRA finals in bullriding.

If you enjoy roping, riding, rodeoing, painting, sculpture or some good cowboy humor, then Bill Stevens is the artist for you! Bill Stevens always knew he had artistry in his future when his drawings, doodles and painting garnered attention from his family and teachers.

He was encouraged to enter some exhibitions and won many awards.

To that point he had no real training and needed little assistance finding his niche entertaining or impressing his peers or mentors. Some of his artwork was for sale and he finds it funny that his first client was his grandma, who bought one of his pieces at his first show. Little did his grandma know that Bill’s talents lay in many different and diverse areas and soon he was adding another artistic skill to his ever growing toolbox of talent. He studied under many great Cowboy Artists of America such as Joe Beeler, Ray Andersen, Mehl Lawson, Fritz White, Roy Grinnell, Bruce Greene and Gary Carter! Pretty impressive for

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sure! CALF news magazine featured his cartoon series, “The Bull Pen.” Bill was the staff cartoonist for the Cattlemen’s Communications in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He has also taught classes at the Southwest School of Art and Craft and the San Antonio Academy in San Antonio, Texas. All this and he paints too? Yes he paints too! Bill has found that he only needs a few paint colors to create any thing he wants to paint, using the magic combination of three primary colors that he can use to create any color, tint or design he desires.

Bill has had his art exhibited in many places. Some of them have included the prestigious Mountain Oyster Art Show in Arizona, the Prairie Art show in Kansas, The Alamo Invitational Western Art Show in San Antonio, the Westheimer Art show in Houston, and of course at the Western Heritage Classic Art Show in Abilene and the Museum of Western Art in Kerrville.

As a young man, Bill had another love and that was watching rodeos. At the time, Bill and his family lived in the north so he attended Madison Square Garden to watch the rodeos performed there regularly.

He gained an excitement and desire to join the “circus”. He already watched many hours of college rodeo each day and decided he would buy himself some rope and rigging and then practice his skills. This led to his registering and competing with some of the best cowboys in the world. It was not long until the name Bill Stevens was right up there with the best! But since everything Bill conquered he mastered it was

back to his rodeo history. Bill worked with a rodeo friend of his who made bull ropes. Bill rode his first bull out of the chute and was remarkably unimpressed. His thought was that this was no big deal and so he then proceeded to add bull riding to his list of accomplishments. Bill felt that he could be a roper and he was! He mastered the art and in 1970 with all these rodeo skills he was declared and honored to be a “pro” and became a PRCA cowboy.

A gold card carrying pro cowboy!

Bill had a life changing event some years after he had become Pro. He drew chute #1 which he did not like at all. That night the bull knocked Bill out… right out of the chute. Bill woke up much later in the hospital and knew in a minute that he needed to stay with team roping considering he had a wife and two kids that needed him able bodied. Bull riding was in the rearview mirror. Providing for his family meant more than just rodeoing, so Bill evaluated his knowledge and his talents no surprise that he added yet another craft to his toolbox of talent…cartoonist! The rodeo life encouraged some great cartoons and Bill found himself being sought after for his cartoon skills, especially his cowboy humor and a magazine from up state saw his work in the CALF news and asked him to submit some cartoons to them. They ran his cartoon and it gained attention and a huge fan base so after several months of being “guest cartoonist,” he thought his tenure was over and did not submit for the next month. The magazine contacted him and asked why he did not send in the next cartoon. Bill replied that he did not realize he was a regular cartoonist for that magazine. He found they loved his work and wanted him to continue. For the next 18 years Bill was their published cartoonist!

As you can tell, Bill is quite a character and this author could spend days entertaining you with his stories of his life. I will attempt to hit the highlights and share some info on obtaining more about Bill Stevens…but which were many. He had degrees from Texas A & M and University of Arizona. He had earned a degree in Animal Science Feedlot management among others.

He put his degree to work, working for feed salesman as visiting speaker. Meetings were held for information and the feed stores and the feed companies would share the cost. Since Bill always traveled for work, he continued rodeos also. Many days found him speaking and the evenings and afternoons found him traveling to a rodeo. He participated in team roping, tie down roping and by now bronc riding. One of Bill’s famous quotes is “Nothing happens til you nod”.

Yet Bill was not through adding to his talents or expressing art in his life… he came into contact by choice with an artist we all know by the name of Jay Hester. Jay guided Bill in his bronze statue journey. Bill creates some of the most emotional evoking bronze statues. His connection and love continued on page 18

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continued from page 17

for anything cowboy and western has led to some of the most gorgeous pieces ever created. If you do not own one then you should!

Bill also is a wonderful portrait artist and does commission work with his paintings, drawings, sculptures or maybe even a character cartoon.

Bill’s cartoon books can be found in Bandera at the General Store on Main Street and the Spirits of Texas. He is hoping to have his cartoon books in more retail locations soon. Bill is currently in his 5th edition cartoon book! It is a good coffee table reader as well as fun for the whole family! One can check out his art at the Frontier Times Museum in Bandera.

In 2016 Bill Stevens was inducted into the Texas Heroes Hall of Honor.

One of Bill’s exciting sculpture projects was remaking the Drunken Dragon! The original had deteriorated to the point of falling apart. Bill was commissioned to repair the art structure. It is a beautiful sound structure of art to impress all who venture to see it.

Bill has an art studio in his home. He is always open to showing, chatting or sharing his wisdom so please call and make an appointment. He is not currently teaching any classes, but is always open to mentoring or as a guest speaker at an event. He was inspired by Charles Russell western art paintings and Bill always likes to inspire others to take up their own art challenges. No one is too young or old to create art.

Bill was commissioned by the Bandera Economic Development Corporation to be a part of the beautification project and create three murals depicting some Bandera western history. They are proudly displayed within the city of Bandera.

Give yourself an eye vacation and visit the Bill Stevens Walkin’ S Gallery, then seek one of his masterpieces for your own or as a gift. To quote an impressive artist…”Nothing happens til you nod!”

So give yourself the nod to make the move so that you do not miss out on one the greatest Cowboys and his art! It should only take you 8 seconds to make that call!

Between Bill’s sculptures, paintings, and cartoons acquiring some cowboy or western art is as easy as visiting his website Walkin’ S Gallery or just google Bill Stevens. He can be reached by emailing him at billstevens2@ yahoo.com Or maybe just call him at 830-6886784! You might even drop him a line or two to his address, PO box 1958 Bandera, Tx 78003.

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DAY TRIP

Pedernales Falls State Park

I

f you are looking for your next outdoor adventure, why not explore Pedernales Falls State Park? Just 10 miles west of Johnson City and 13 miles southeast of Dripping Springs, this park offers 5,212 acres and sits along the banks of the Pedernales River.

So pack a cooler, a tube or two, some hiking boots and some sunscreen and get ready for a fun-filled time!

PLAY IN THE WATER The picturesque river is obviously the main attraction of the Pedernales Falls State Park.

In fact, the park’s claim to fame are the stunning Pedernales Falls that flow over grand slabs of limestone and attract visitors from near and far. The park prohibits swimming and wading in the Pedernales Falls area, but there are plenty of designated swimming areas to cool off from the hot Texas sun. Visitors can also canoe, kayak and tube. They don’t offer rentals, so you have to bring your own flotation devices. Fishing is another activity that is very popular at the park, so be sure to bring your pole!

HIKING AND TRAILS The park offers plenty of opportunities to explore nature through its expansive trails system.

With trails that range from leisurely to more advanced, you could take the half-mile Twin Falls Nature Trail, which stops for a scenic overlook of the Falls, or venture down the Wolf Mountain Trail, a six-mile trek that wraps around Tobacco and Wolf mountains. Advanced

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CAMPING Want to spend more than a day at Pedernales Falls State Park? The park offers sites with electricity that include water hookup, picnic tables and nearby showers and restrooms. There are also hike-in primitive campsites for those who prefer to rough it!

For an extended stay, the nearby towns of Johnson City and Dripping Springs offer restaurants, wineries & distilleries, shops and plenty of activities to complete your stay.

Be sure to make a reservation before you go!

cyclists will enjoy the 10-mile Juniper Ridge Trail that will test their mountain biking skills!

There are even trails for horseback riding that include rocky terrain and slopes for the experienced rider.

GEOCACHING A modern-day treasure hunt using a GPS or smartphone app, Geocaching is a fun adventure for the entire family. To play, download the geocaching.com app, or similar apps, choose your cache and begin your hunt!

PARK EVENTS Visit the Pedernales Falls State Park site at tpwd.texas.gov for a list of fun events: Informational hikes, birding, astronomy & more!

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MUSIC

Songs for my Daughters

by Matt Kersh

“I love the fluidity, the linear nature of the instrument, and the rich dynamics unique to those 88 keys that can fill up a room or great hall as a solo instrument in a way nothing else seems to do.”

F

atherhood isn’t something with which I have yet had the privilege to gain a lot of experience.

Though, it is someone I have been for over 12 years now. In 2011, I was blessed to have my own daughter, but with life seeming to crumble around me, I was methodically shut out of my little girl’s life over the course of the next couple of years. That angel is in my heart every day, regardless of the fact that I have been denied the rightful role of daddy in her life. Nevertheless, I trust that God will work things together for the good of our relationship and redeem the years that have been lost.

Speaking of redemption, fast forward a dozen trips around the sun, and God has made (quite literally) all things new in and around me. I am quickly approaching five years of sobriety, my music is blessed, and I am married to a beautiful, kind, and understanding woman that sees me for who I really am and loves me mind, body, and soul. And most importantly, I am alive spiritually in ways I’ve never been before.

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Just yesterday, I sat down on my piano and played for a little while. Being that I perform exclusively with guitar, or at least have for the last decade, the keys have not been a place I have spent a great deal of time for quite a number of years, despite being my first instrument. The piano is where I began to see and feel the music coming from my hands for the first time a little over 30 years ago. I love the fluidity, the linear nature of the instrument, and the rich dynamics unique to those 88 keys that can fill up a room or great hall as a solo instrument in a way nothing else seems to do.

Sitting there last night, I was freshly reminded how playing opens the door to emote in a cathartic way that I need.

Whether you know me personally or have been a reader of this column for any length of time, it will come as no surprise when I say that I am an emotional person, especially for a man. There are times that reality has gotten me in a bit of trouble, but, by and large, it is a trait I feel is a gift for (and to) me.

In just a handful of weeks, my wife

and I will be welcoming our first daughter, Shiloh Quinn. When Courtnay surprised me with a pink beanie a handful of months ago which communicated we were having a little girl, it was one of the sweetest moments of my life. I’ve always deeply desired to be a “girl daddy,” and to actually get to do so on a daily basis is a joy I cannot truly grasp as of yet. With Shiloh’s impending arrival, that dream will be a reality, and I couldn’t be more grateful.

One of my original songs of which I am most proud is called, “Savannah’s Song,” named after my firstborn. As much as it is painful, I wrote that song a little over ten years ago operating under the notion that things were not going to go the route they “should” in terms of the relationship between me and her. Unfortunately, I was right. One day, she will hear that song and know the love I felt/ feel for her and still be able to glean from my father’s heart for her. For Shiloh, that song can serve the same purpose. And that which was written for a sister twelve years her senior will be for her in all the same ways a guide for living and loving well.

SAVANNAH’S SONG “Life will break you, take the wind from your sails Attempt to crush you, leave you alone by yourself But I won’t leave you, just know I’ll be here by your side When hearts are breaking, your youth is taken in stride Look into my eyes and see my soul Trust my words and know I’ll never go For there is love that will not fail So, toss your coin into this well And wish, and hope, and dream Love won’t leave you, and if it does it’s not real ‘Cause love’s not easy, it’s so much more than a feeling But when you find it, fight for it with all that you can For love is magic, and tragic, and it makes you more than a man Look into my eyes and see my soul Trust my words and know I’ll never go For there is love that will not fail And toss your coin into this well And wish, and hope, and dream And wish, and hope, and dream Its been said to love another person, is to see the face of God And I know this to be certain, for all my pain and all my loss ‘Cause I feel it in your laughter, and I hear it in your voice And no matter what comes after this, you will always be my choice For the greatest form of anchor for this wandering heart of mine Is acceptance in my darkness, so I can walk into the light For I, I would die in your arms I would die, I would die in your arms For you, you will live in my heart And you, you’re alive in my heart So, wish, and hope, and dream So, wish, would you hope, would you dream with me Oh, may we wish, may we hope, may we dream”

Photo Credit: Meredith McCann Photography

My desire is to be a good, good father. Just like God has been to me. Or as least the very best that I can be. What an honor it is to be blessed with children to love and raise love well. I pray I can live up to my expectations.

Those words in my song aren’t just for my daughters, but for everyone. No matter what life throws at us to break our spirits, there is room to wish, and hope, and dream. And even beyond that, there is (literally) all the room in the world to live. And may we really live. All of us.

soundcloud.com/Matt-Kersh/savannahs-song

WWW.HILLCOUNTRYEXPLORE.COM

| JULY 2023 |

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GET OUT AND ENJOY THE GREAT TEXAS HILL COUNTRY!

JULY Calendar of Events Bandera Saturdays Cowboys on Main

MAIN STREET

10:00am to 2:00pm Expect to see and interact with a sample of the old west cowboy lifestyle on Bandera Main Street.

Hosted by Bandera Business Association.

Saturdays Bandera Cattle Company Gunfighters

BANDERA VISITORS CENTER, 126 HWY 16 S.

11:00am to 1:00pm Bandera Visitors Center - 830-796-3045 Bring the kids and have them get deputized after the show!

July 2-Aug. 25 Riding on Faith Friday Night Summer Series Rodeo

MANSFIELD PARK ARENA, 2886 SH 16 NORTH This open rodeo on Friday nights features bullriding, mini-bulls, barrel racing, and roping. facebook.com/ridingonfaithrodeoseries July 1-July 29 Chuckwagon Dinner and Show

FLYING L RANCH AND RESORT, 675 FLYING L DRIVE A barbecue dinner with all the fixin’s, live country music, dancing, and Western entertainment are part of the fun at this chuckwagon dinner and show on Saturday evenings. flyingl.com July 4 Pet Parade

BANDERA CITY PARK, 173 MAIN ST. Cowboy Capital Pet Assitance League, Inc. presents its 27th annual Pet Parade. Dress up your pets, join the procession, and enter to win the judging contest for Best of the Wild West, Most Original, Look-A-Like, and other categories. ccpalrescue.org July 4 Barbecue Dinner and Fourth of July Parade

AMERICAN LEGION POST 410, 127 LEGION DRIVE

American Legion 410 Post in Lakehills celebrates the Fourth of July with a parade that runs down Park Road 37 through Lakehills, followed by a barbecue dinner with all the fixin’s and a live auction and country music. alpost410.com July 20 Third Thursday Cowboy Camp with Lew Peterbaugh

BANDERA BEVERAGE BARN, 1407 SH 16 NORTH Bring your guitar to play along or simply come to

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listen. Pickers who play cowboy, Texas, or Western swing music are welcome to sit in. banderacowboycapital.com July 22 National Day of the American Cowboy

BANDERA COUNTY COURTHOUSE AND MANSFIELD PARK, 500 MAIN ST.; 2886 SH 16 Celebrate the National Day of the American Cowboy with activities at the Bandera County Courthouse lawn. Enjoy chuckwagon storytelling from cowboys on Main Street, wagon rides, pictures with a longhorn, games, shootouts from the Bandera Gunfighters, trick ropers, live music, and special Old West guests, and a medicine show. Ridin’ the River Cowboy Fellowship Rodeo takes place at Mansfield Park Arena, with the “Bulls, Barrels, and Breakaway Contest” evening event. banderabusiness.com July 22 Frontier Times Fourth Sunday Jamboree

FRONTIER TIMES MUSEUM, 510 13TH ST.

On the fourth Sunday of each month, the Frontier Times Museum hosts this afternoon jamboree with live music, storytelling, and fun for all ages. frontiertimesmuseum.org Boerne Every Friday & Saturday Night Tapatio Springs Hill Country Resort SINGER/SONGWRITER SERIES

1 RESORT WAY

6:30pm to 10:30pm at La Cascada Table & Bar Kick back at La Cascada Table & Bar and enjoy pure Texas fare, a refreshing beverage, and live music from talented artists Friday and Saturday evenings. tapatiosprings.com Live Music at Dog & Pony Grill

1481 S. MAIN

Weekends in July – See Ad on Page 2 for full schedule.

Saturdays A Day at the Farm and Farmers Market

HISTORIC HERFF FARM, 33 HERFF ROAD

Whether you want to hike the trails, shop in the open air, get gardening inspiration, take classes on growing your food, help the Cibolo Center for Conservation maintain the land through volunteer service projects, or get new recipe ideas, the Farmers Market at Herff Farm is open rain or shine every Saturday throughout the year. cibolo.org/locations/herff-farm

Saturdays Old Jail Museum Tours

KENDALL COUNTY HISTORIC JAIL, 208 E. SAN ANTONIO AVE. The Kendall County Historic Jail was constructed in 1887 and served for a century as the county jail.

In recent years, the Friends of the Kendall County Historic Jail have restored the space, bringing it back to life as a one-of-a-kind museum of Kendall County history. The jail is open for tours every Saturday. thejail.org July 8-9 Market Days

MAIN PLAZA, 100 N. MAIN ST. On the second weekend of each month, spend a day browsing the market and visiting the many downtown boutiques, galleries, and restaurants for a unique Hill Country experience. There are a variety of bargains to be found on items such as jewelry, plants, art, handcrafts, collectibles, and antiques. boernemarketdays.com/boerne.html July 8, 22 Bluegrass Jam at The AgriCultural

THE AGRICULTURAL MUSEUM AND ARTS CENTER, 102 CITY PARK ROAD Every second and fourth Saturday of the month, bring your instrument and play along or just come to listen to the Bluegrass Jam at The AgriCultural (formerly the Agricultural Heritage Museum). theagricultural.org/bluegrass-jams July 8, 22 Kuhlmann-King Museum Tour and Programs

KUHLMANN-KING MUSEUM, 402 E. BLANCO ROAD

The Kuhlmann-King house gives the public the opportunity to step back in time to see what a historic Boerne home looked like “way back when.” Monthly events and themes vary. bahpsboerne.org July 9 The Ironwood Barn at Von Erich Ranch-OPEN HOUSE

1637 FM 473

11am to 2pm. www.vonerichranch.com July 15 Moondance Concert

CIBOLO CENTER FOR CONSERVATION, 140 CITY PARK ROAD Moondance is a longstanding, beloved tradition at the Cibolo. Grab your lawn chairs, coolers, and friends, and come enjoy live music from local bands under the oak trees. This summer welcomes back some of the center’s favorite music groups and food trucks from past Moondances, and also welcomes new soon-to-be favorites. cibolo.org/moondance

July 29 Hot Summer Nights Antique Tractor Pull

THE AGRICULTURAL MUSEUM AND ARTS CENTER, 102 CITY PARK ROAD

The Boerne AgriCultural Museum and Arts Center hosts their summer antique tractor pull event. Come out and watch antique tractors from around Texas as they compete to pull the heaviest weight the furthest distance. theagricultural.org/tractorpull Comfort July 8 Second Saturdays at America Reclaimed

AMERICA RECLAIMED, 810 AVENUE A

Shop reclaimed lumber, antiques, vintage signs, custom furniture & more. Live Music!

Complimentary Adult Beverages! And lots of fun!

Americareclaimed.co

favorites for quarter horse and thoroughbred racing as well as special races, trials, and futurities. gillespiefair.com

candles, unique clothing, jewelry, food, and other items. fbgtradedays.com

July 4 Fourth of July Parade

July 1- Aug. 27 PCAA Concerts in the Park

Originally started in 1991 by a group of communityminded friends, this small-town patriotic parade has grown over the years to be one that is loved by many.

The parade begins in the morning, heading east on Main Street to the National Museum of the Pacific War. It then makes a U-turn and goes west on Main all the way to Bowie Street. Bring your lawn chairs for a great seat or use the tailgate of your pick-up.

Fbgtxparade.org

Enjoy a free Sunday evening concert featuring a different genre of music each time. You’re welcome to bring your chairs, eats, and drinks. visitfredericksburgtx.com

MAIN STREET

July 7 First Friday Art Walk

VARIOUS LOCATIONS, MAIN STREET

July 11 Music in the Park

COMFORT PARK, 423 MAIN ST. On the second Tuesday of the month, embrace the warm summer weather with a free outdoor concert.

Lawn chairs and blankets are encouraged, and tips for musicians are accepted and appreciated. comfort-texas.com

Participating fine art galleries offer extended hours so that visitors and visiting artists can enjoy the various events and exhibits planned throughout the day. This is a fantastic way to see the finest art in Hill Country while enjoying local wine and refreshments. facebook.com/first-friday-art-walk-fredericksbu rg-401466143219898 July 14-16 Trade Days

Fredericksburg July 1-2, 15-16 Live Pari-Mutuel Horse Racing

TRADE DAYS, 355 SUNDAY FARMS LANE

GILLESPIE COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS, 530 FAIR DRIVE Come out during the summer season for exciting live horse racing at the fairgrounds’ Class 3 track. Pick your

Shop more than 350 vendors in seven barns and acres of antiques, collectibles, tools, crafts, shabby chic, primitives, ranch furniture, hunting accessories,

MARKTPLATZ, 100 BLOCK OF WEST MAIN STREET

July 15 Night in Old Fredericksburg and Barbecue Cookoff

GILLESPIE COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS, 530 FAIR DRIVE

Night in Old Fredericksburg at the Gillespie County Fairgrounds features live parimutuel horse racing, a Lone Star Barbecue Society cookoff, and other activities all during the day. Plenty of cold beverages and food are available. gillespiefair.com July 28-30 Hill Country Auto Swap Meet and Flea Market

LADY BIRD JOHNSON MUNICIPAL PARK, 432 LADY BIRD DRIVE

Car enthusiasts can find just about anything at this annual event. A “car corral” has vintage autos for sale in various states of restoration and there’s a flea market. Among the many items for sale are vehicles and parts, tools, auto accessories, hats, books, clothes, and various souvenirs. earhartproductions.com/hill-country-swap-meet/ continued on page 26

IF YOU SEE ME AROUND TOWN, BE SURE TO

n w o D e M Flag

I’D LOVE TO TALK TO YOU ABOUT YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS!

SHANNON MASSIE Realtor®

Learn More About Shannon at

L E GAC Y B R O K E R G R O U P. CO M

432.294.4016 | shannon@legacybrokergroup.com WWW.HILLCOUNTRYEXPLORE.COM

| JULY 2023 |

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continued from page 25

Hunt July 1-Sept. 2 Crider’s Rodeo and Dancehall

CRIDER’S RODEO AND DANCEHALL, 2310 SH 39 For 95 years, Crider’s Rodeo and Dancehall has been a entertainment spot along the banks of the Guadalupe River each summer, with seasonal rodeos, live music, and dancing on Saturday nights. The season kicks off on May 27 with a rodeo followed by dancing and live music by Mike Donnell. cridersrandd.com Ingram July 1-July 28 Summer Art Market

HILL COUNTRY ARTS FOUNDATION, 120 POINT THEATRE ROAD More than 20 artists and craftsmen display their handmade wares. hcaf.com July 14-16, 21-23, 28-29 “The Last Roundup of the Guacamole Queens”

HILL COUNTRY ARTS FOUNDATION, 120 POINT THEATRE ROAD

In this deliciously funny Southern-fried comedy, the Verdeen cousins of Sweetgum, Texas, are up against the clock as they frantically attempt to produce the ultimate high school reunion before the old building is demolished. But they’ve got a bushel of obstacles to overcome before they can pull off this miracle. hcaf.com

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Johnson City July 22-24 Market Days

July 8-9 Summer Market

Held the fourth weekend of the month, this openair market features vendors and artisans selling handmade or locally produced products in the heart of Texas wine country. johnsoncitytexas.info

Come shop at the eighth annual Kerrville Summer Market. Vendors bring clothing, Texas handmade goods, gourmet food, gifts, jewelry, holiday and home décor, accessories, candles, art, photography, gifts for the guys, and other merchandise. texasmarketguide.com

Kerrville July 1 Kerr County Market Days and Hill Country Swap Meet

July 8-9 Texas Gun and Knife Show

BLANCO COUNTY COURTHOUSE SQUARE, 101 E. PECAN DRIVE

KERR COUNTY HILL COUNTRY YOUTH EVENT CENTER, 3785 SH 27

Once a month, Market Days features artists and crafters bringing their own original handcrafted items to sell. Hill Country Swap Meet is a community garage sale/flea market. kerrmarketdays.org July 4 Fourth on the River

LOUISE HAYS PARK, 202 THOMPSON DRIVE This annual Independence Day celebration consists of a concert, vendors, and the largest fireworks display in the Texas Hill Country. facebook.com/kerrvilles4th

INN OF THE HILLS HOTEL AND CONFERENCE CENTER, 1001 JUNCTION HIGHWAY

KERR COUNTY HILL COUNTRY YOUTH EVENT CENTER, 3785 SH 27 Vendors sell new and used guns, knives, ammo, coins, jewelry, camping gear, accessories, and other items. texasgunandknifeshows.com July 22 Upper Guadalupe River Authority River Clean Up

FLAT ROCK PARK, 3840 RIVERSIDE DRIVE

The Upper Guadalupe River Authority provides cleaning supplies and trash disposal for volunteers to remove trash from the Guadalupe River and the watershed. The event raises awareness about the problem of litter in the community, and volunteers receive a T-shirt and entry in a prize drawing. ugra.org/major-initiatives/river-clean-up

Contact Us at (210) 219-6735 or info@distinctmediatx.com

Join Us on Social Media Instagram: @hill_country_explore Facebook.com/hillcountryexplore WWW.HILLCOUNTRYEXPLORE.COM

| JULY 2023 |

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REAL ESTATE

The Little Mermaid and

Real Estate: DISCOVER THE POWER OF REIMAGINATION

by Denise Graves

UNLOCK THE HIDDEN POTENTIAL OF YOUR PROPERTY

BY GIVING IT A REINVENTION 28 | EXPLORE

H

ave you seen The Little Mermaid? It may seem like an unusual starting point, but the recent live version of this classic story has sparked curiosity and excitement.

Just like how the movie took an old tale and gave it a fresh twist, real estate offers a similar opportunity.

Today, we’ll explore how you can apply the concept of reinvention to your own property and make it appealing to buyers.

1.

Making your little mermaid shine. Perhaps you’ve lived in your home for decades and it’s time to downsize. Similar to transforming The Little Mermaid, you can reimagine your property.

However, let’s focus on your “big mermaid” – a larger home that requires updates. Making your home modern and appealing may seem monumental, but know that there are strategies to attract buyers and help them see your home’s potential.

2.

The power of cleanliness and maintenance. When selling a spacious house, it’s essential to present it in the best possible light. Ensure the property is immaculately clean and meticulously maintained. Getting an inspection report upfront allows potential buyers to feel confident about their purchase, avoiding unexpected expenses related to hidden issues. By addressing concerns such as aging elements, worn-out windows and carpets, and outdated appliances, you increase the appeal and value of the home.

3.

Embrace the buyer’s vision. Buyers looking for a larger property often want to personalize it and make it their own.

By presenting a well-maintained house that offers a blank canvas, you invite them to envision their own story within those walls. Let them see the potential for their unique updates and improvements.

Much like turning an animated film into a live-action masterpiece, you want to provide the foundation for buyers to create their dream home.

5.

A buyer’s perspective. For buyers seeking a new home, the current market presents challenges. There is fierce competition for new properties, especially those located in desirable neighborhoods with stunning views. However, consider a different approach and set your sights on older homes with character. These houses often possess excellent structural integrity, remarkable lots, and a timeless charm that new-construction homes may lack.

6.

The allure of established neighborhoods. Older homes nestled in well-established neighborhoods exude a certain charm that can’t be replicated overnight. The allure of towering trees, picturesque lawns, and a sense of history can be enticing. If you appreciate the ambiance of an established community, consider exploring these properties. With a fresh vision and a touch of creativity, you can transform an old house into your dream home.

Real estate offers a unique opportunity to reimagine and revive properties, much like the transformation of The Little Mermaid. Whether you’re a seller looking to reinvent your large home or a buyer seeking character in an established neighborhood, the Graves Group is here to help. Contact us today by phone call or email and let us put a new spin on your real estate story.

DENISE GRAVES

ABR | CLHMS | CRS | GRI 210.260.2176 www.thegravesgroup.com

“REAL ESTATE OFFERS A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY TO REIMAGINE AND REVIVE PROPERTIES.”

4.

Finding the perfect match. As a seller, there is someone out there who desires your “whale” of a property or even your “little mermaid.” Collaborate with real estate experts who can help you showcase your home to attract the right buyer. By leveraging their expertise, you’ll gain exposure and maximize the number of interested parties eager to explore your property.

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| JULY 2023 |

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FUN & GAMES

4th of July Fun!

AMERICA INDEPENDENCE FLAG FIREWORKS CELEBRATION

30 | EXPLORE

STARS STRIPES UNITED LIBERTY NATION

PATRIOTIC CELEBRATION DEMOCRACY BRAVE RED

WHITE BLUE

HERFF VILLAGE TOWNHOMES

THE LARGEST POWERSPORTS SUPERSTORE IN SOUTH TEXAS! FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED FOR 50+ YEARS

Alamo Cycle Plex is one of the area’s premier powersports dealers! Come meet our professional sales members, finance experts, service technicians and knowledgeable parts and accessories staff. We pride ourselves on having well-trained experts here to support you!

SALES, SERVICE, PARTS & ACCESSORIES | (210) 696-2000