Summer Fun Magazine

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SUMMER FUN Fayette County Fair

THE 95TH ANNUAL FAIR

MAGNOLIA DAYS

Actively enriching lives through the arts and art education

Official Publication of

BIG TIME FUN IN COLUMBUS

SUMMER CAMPS

CAMPS FOR YOUR LITTLES

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Table of Contents ARTS for Rural Texas ................................................................6 Vacation Bible School..............................................................12 Camp Kubena.............................................................................14

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Community Theatre..................................................................15 Lutherhill Summer Camps......................................................16 Fayette County Fair..................................................................18 Bluff Schuetzenverein............................................................20 Magnolia Days..........................................................................24 City of La Grange......................................................................26 E G U I D

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On the Cover

Fair County IR FayettTHe AN NUAL FA THE 95 YS IA OL DA MAGNCO LUMBUS E FUN

BIG TIM

g lives enrichin Activly h the arts and throug education art

CAMPS

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S ER CAMP SUMMUR LITTLES

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ARTS for Rural Texas offers a selection of activites for children.

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ation of

Official Public

Special Sections Staff PUBLISHER Regina B. Keilers EDITOR Jeff Wick DIGITAL EDITOR Andy Behlen

CIRCULATION Amanda Gifford George Kana Bobby Bedient Jesse Montez Leigh Ann Bedient Nicol Krenek

STAFF WRITER/OFFICE LouAnn Adcox ADVERTISING Becky Weise Jackie Daniels ACCOUNTING Theresia Karstedt Nonnie Barton PRODUCTION John Castaneda Newspaper Lindsey Fojtik Special Sections

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127 S. Washington St. | P.O. Box 400 La Grange, Texas 78945 Ph: 979.968.3155 | Fx: 979.968.6767 Email: editor@fayettecountyrecord.com www.FayetteCountyRecord.com The Fayette County Record is published every Tuesday and Friday, except the publication immediately following Christmas by Fayette County Record, Inc. serving Fayette County since 1922. The Fayette County Record is locally owned and operated by the Barton family since 1976. (USPS 188-440)

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COVER STORY

ARTS FOR RURAL TEXAS IS ACTIVELY ENRICHING LIVES THROUGH THE ARTS AND ART EDUCATION

BY KIRSTEN CORNELL Developing the ARTS

ARTS was officially founded in 2003 by a group of Fayetteville residents who recognized that art education was lacking in rural schools.

Students painting

a mural

As circumstance would have it, founders Michael Clann, Terry Ross, and Jeanette Brown were having dinner around the time art classes were dropped from some schools. All three shared a common interest: the arts.

Clann, a retired lawyer, painted and had been involved in art organizations in Houston. Brown shared talents through photography and music. Ross was a harpist who enjoyed a career at NASA, as a homicide detective in Houston, and later as Justice of the Peace in Fayetteville.

“In the discussions that occurred around my dinner table, we brainstormed the concept and were motivated by concerns that the school did not have enough students to maintain the capitation rate at a high enough level to continue to operate as a school,” recalls Clann. “It was our belief that if we could enrich the students’ experience, more students would come and improve the economy of the school. We quickly realized that the core mission was much more important than simply being a device to help the school. The opportunity to develop

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creativity to enhance their chances of a successful life far exceeded simply helping the school in Fayetteville.”

Studying art has been linked to writing

better

The response they received was overwhelming. Almost every student, in both elementary and high school, showed up for their first event and the enthusiasm was contagious. Throughout the development of the organization, they remained mindful of the potential that they could try to grow too fast and risk failure.

Nevertheless, their long-range ambitions have always been to serve as many children as possible.

Cultivating Creativity

The founders understood art and art education lift the spirits of youth and help them excel. Between the three of them, they knew enough artists in the area to ask them to participate in teaching art after school.

It was a short leap from there to bringing in the arts to the children for in-school performances. Soon, surrounding towns asked if they could participate and the organization took hold growing throughout the region.

“Their passion was a mix of love for art, love for children, love of community, and giving hearts. It drew the children to ARTS and many of us from the countryside came to town in support of it,” states Alisa Rowe longtime supporter, donor, and active member of the Board of Directors. “The ARTS building rang with the laughter

The art of music

of children, classical music by Rick Rowley, and modern music by Dick Smith. The walls of the gallery were filled with artwork by creatives of all ages.”

As it grew, ARTS added performances with two Fine Arts Assemblies in two school districts and two after-school classes in Fayetteville. Summer Art Camp followed with one week-long art camp in Fayetteville.

Nineteen years later, Arts for Rural Texas boasts programs and services in seven communities, six school districts, three private schools, and two community centers in Fayette and Colorado counties.

The organization has grown and opened a second campus based in Schulenburg. The Schulenburg campus along with the original campus in Fayetteville houses a gallery and classrooms at each location. ARTS has shared its passion for the love of arts with numerous adults along with more than 20,000 children as they inspire, build confidence, and cultivate creativity.

Inspiring Young Minds

Without ARTS’ contribution, most of the children in Fayette County and surrounding rural communities would not be exposed to creative experiences. Often art is overlooked because it is so deeply embedded in other curricula that it is not acknowledged for its own contributions.

For example, playing with materials like clay, using paintbrushes, cutting things with scissors, using stickers, and other activities help improve hand-eye coordination, along with fine motor development.

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At ARTS creativity is

celebrated

Spectrum Lecture Series At these community events, notable speakers offer entertainment and learning opportunities. The late columnist, Leon Hale and forensic sculptor, Amanda Danning are two of the speakers who have shared their experiences and knowledge with attendees. Enticing subjects on history, art, life, small towns, and more are offered.

This helps children with their writing skills in the future along with developing parts of the brain used in other tasks.

“Art is an experience that is intertwined in all experiences including language: the ability to recognize and translate symbols; math: developing structure and simple analysis; science: research, creative thinking, and exploration; technological development: developing things that have never existed; sports: problem-solving and understanding grid and shape, learning through failure and understanding how to change and improve and grow, and teamwork; history and social studies: understanding the evolution of man through the arts and seeing the visual recording of history,” explains Karen Vernon, Executive Director for ARTS. Children living in rural areas have more limited opportunities than their metropolitan counterparts in large school districts where a school art program is easily funded and recognized for its contribution to education.

Adds Vernon. “All of these experiences provide a bigger picture of the world, stimulate thinking, and inspire young minds.”

Artistic Opportunities

ARTS offers enrichment classes to children in grades 1st through 12th, offering multiple forms of art including visual, performing, literary, and some culinary arts. In the visual arts, students can explore a variety of 8

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Register now for Summer Camp at ARTS!

artsforruraltexas.org/arts-summer-camps-2022

Art gives kids a

bigger picture

of the world

multimedia from painting and drawing to sculpture, to fiber arts and quilting, to photography, printmaking, and more.

Additionally, music and choir enrichment classes along with theater are offered through the summer program.

Photogr aph classes are offered through ARTS

The two galleries offer opportunities for children and adults to view quality artwork by nationally recognized artists.

Here visitors can discuss the artwork with the staff and the children are educated about the art. Children and patrons can meet the artists, visit, and ask questions. “Children are encouraged to pick their favorite artwork and explain why they chose this. This skill is something that most people are not offered but is an asset in their adult life,” says Vernon.

After-school programs are free, whether in public school, private school, or homeschool. Some schools operate in collaboration with ARTS by providing after-school classrooms in which to hold programs or by busing the children to partner campuses. ARTS offers classes in collaboration with the Round Top Library. It offers free programs at the Boys and Girls Clubs in Weimar and Schulenburg and at St. Michael and St. Rose schools. In summer 2022, ARTS will work with the Schulenburg Library, the Fayette Library, and the Weimar library, offering a free program for children at each location.

Emerging Artists Competition Open to students in grades 6th through 12th Underwritten by Arnold and Mary Le Johnson Financial awards are given in each grade Held annually in August Artwork displayed at the Ross Gallery in Fayetteville All artwork is to be original in concept and design Students may submit work done under instruction

For more details and entry information, visit artsforruraltexas.org.

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ough Theater studies are offered thr

ARTS

ARTS Summer Camp

For the past 17 years, ARTS has been welcoming students to Summer Art Camp at their Fayetteville and Schulenburg campuses. Camps are fee-based at $95 a week and provided from 10 am to 3 pm, Monday through Friday.

While sculpture and clay are always popular, all their sessions fill up, so register early to get the courses your budding artist is interested in. “Teens typically enjoy painting and photography. Theater is always very popular and lots of fun,” says Vernon. “It’s hard to imagine that all of the kids can learn their parts and memorize their lines, create the sets, and perform on Friday. I can’t imagine doing that with only four days of practice.”

ARTS, in collaboration with the Texas Commission on the Arts and Texas Women for the Arts, provides Fine Art Assemblies.

Through the years these performances have included the Houston Grand Opera to Go, The Austin Ballet, The Houston Symphony, Great Promise for American Indians, Windync, Darden Smith, storytellers, puppeteers, and much more.

“The performances bring the beauty, creativity, and greatness of the world directly to the children in their school environment and provide experiences that prepare children to be creative thinkers in a world market and a successful adult,” Vernon adds.

For 11 years A

RTS has welc omed summer cam ps

Most elementary camps offer two experiences weekly.

Students are enrolled in Lower Elementary (1st – 3rd) and Upper Elementary (4th – 6th) camps. Classes rotate at lunchtime allowing them to engage in different activities daily. For example, a student may be in Rock-PaperCanvas for half a day and in jewelry making for half a day or sculpture for half a day and watercolor for half a day.

Teen (6th – 12th) classes in painting, photography, sculpture, and more are full-day camps. ARTS patrons underwrite scholarships to camps for those who wish to apply, and applications can be found via their website.

“Our summer camp schedule is packed with great artistic content taught by some amazing instructors,” says Vernon. “Claire Lewis will be making paper and then turning this paper into notebooks, Savannah Konvicka is doing printmaking, Allyson Hoffmann will teach teens about painting realistically with acrylic paints, and so many more!”

In the visual art camps, students will take their original artwork home with them. These may be paintings, sculptures, fiber arts, photography, quilt samples, or handmade journals. The theater camps culminate in a performance that is open to the public, and this year’s program will focus on musical theater.

ARTS has over 50% return rate from summer to summer, speaking to their skilled instructors and the impact they are having on the community. Vernon encourages everyone to look over their camp offerings this summer and give them a try. “No previous artistic training is required, and the scholarship application is on the website,” she adds. “If a child wants to come to art camp, we want to make that happen.”

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2022 local vacation bible schools First Baptist La Grange

June 12-17, 5:30-7:45 p.m.

211 Luther Ln., Carmine, TX 78932 | (979) 278-3388 mluther@industryinet.com | www.mllccarmine.com

First United Methodist

June 26-July 1, call church for details 110 W. Walnut, La Grange, TX 78945 | (979) 968-5657 stpaul@cvctx.com | www.stpaullg.org

July 11-15, 5-7 p.m.

1215 N. Von Minden Rd., La Grange, TX 78945 (979) 968-8323 office@lgfumc.org | www.lgfumc.org

Holy Rosary Catholic/St. Peter & Paul Catholic June 27-July 1, 8 a.m.-12 p.m.

936 FM 2436, La Grange, TX 78945 | (979) 247-4441 hostynch@cvctx.com | hostynplumcatholic.org

St. Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church

United Evangelical Lutheran Church

Sunday July 10, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

July 11-12, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Swiss Alp 2038 FM 3171, Schulenburg, TX 78956 (979) 247-4151

Flatonia Baptist Church

Sacred Heart Catholic Church

June 6-9, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

539 E. Pearl St., La Grange, TX 78945 (Parish Center) (979) 968-3430 www.sacredheartlagrange.org

June 13-17 VBS 8:30-11:30 a.m.

SMACK 1-3 p.m.

225 E. 6th St. Flatonia, TX 78941 | (361) 865-3813 Jacob@flatoniabaptist.org | www.flatoniabaptist.org

Saint Michael’s Lutheran Church

St. John the Baptist Catholic Church

June 26-30, 5:30-8 p.m.

700 Frio St. Winchester, TX 78945 | (979) 242-3444 secretary@stmichaelswinchester.org www.stmichaelswinchester.org

VBS - July 18-22, 6-8 p.m.

205 E. Bell St., Fayetteville | (979) 378 2277 www.stjohnfayetteville.com

Crosspoint Community Church

June 12-16 | evening VBS - call church for details 211 Luther Ln., Carmine | (979) 278-3388 www.mllcarmine.com

June 5-9, 6-8:30 p.m.

1010 N. Von Minden St., La Grange, TX 78945 (979) 968-5953 brandi@crosspointchurchtx.org www.crosspointchurchtx.org

Colorado River Cowboy Church

June 7-9, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Chuckwagon breakfast and lunch provided 5122 TX-71, Smithville, TX 78945 | (512) 575-5592 Office.crcc@gmail.com www.coloradorivercowboychurch.org

Flatonia United Methodist Church

July 11-15, 5-7 p.m.

403 E. North Main, Flatonia, TX 78941 | (713) 825-6032 www.flatoniaumc.org

Shared Lutheran Ministry-St. John Lutheran Church

July 24-29 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Cost $50, extra $10 for breakfast at 8 a.m.

5743 TX-159, La Grange, TX 78945 (Rutersville) (979) 249-3155

Sharedmn@cvctx.com | www.sharedlutheranministry.org

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Martin Luther Lutheran Church

Sports Camp - June 26-30, 5:30-8:30 p.m.

5000 State Hwy. 71, La Grange TX 78945 (979) 242-5000 Sarah@fbclagrange.net | www.fbclagrange.net

2022 SUMMER FUN GUIDE

Martin Luther Lutheran

Waldeck Lutheran

Late July - call church for details.

6915 Waldeck Church Ln., Ledbetter | (979) 249-3802

Holy Cross Lutheran

June 20-22, 5:30-8:30 Super heroes of the Bible: Transformed by Faith FM 1482, Warda | (979) 242-3333 www.holycrosswarda.com

Mt. Calvary Lutheran

July 18-22 | evening VBS - call church for details Jerusalem Marketplace 800 N. Franklin St., La Grange | (979) 968-3938 www.mtcalvary-lcms.org

Bethlehem Lutheran Church

VBS - July 27-29, 5:30-8 p.m.

Closing Ceremony - July 31, 9:30 a.m.

412 S. White St., Round Top, TX 78954 | (979) 249-3686

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Camp kubena Shooting the rapids with his brother, sleeping under the stars next to a river, roasting smore’s on an open campfire with his dad. These are the fantastic experiences Rob had growing up on the rivers of Texas. “Every time I cross the Colorado River, and when you live in Central Texas that’s many times, I can’t help but hear the words of ‘The Texas River Song’ sung by Lyle Lovett. ‘The crooked Colorado runs weaving and winding’.” Rob would like more people to have the opportunity to experience this uniquely Texas river trip.

Rob Clift is the Executive Camp Director at Camp Kubena, a 182-acre outdoor conference, retreat, and summer camp destination focused on impacting lives through positive outdoor experiences. Rob was recently inspired by his childhood canoeing experiences to develop a challenging, exciting, and safe program to canoe a beautiful section of the Colorado River from Smithville, to La Grange. The canoe guides at Camp Kubena are expertly trained by one of Texas’s best and most experienced training organizations, The Expedition School. Rob explains more, “because of Camp Kubena’s amazing facilities such as our beautiful lake, relaxing sleeping lodges, and fantastic dining hall, we are able to provide the proper training and safety information needed for canoeing the Colorado river. We want to make sure our customers have that positive outdoor experience and create memories that will last a lifetime.”

To experience the Colorado river in Texas, is to experience peace, quiet, and reflection. It could be the Kingfisher bird looking for its next meal, or maybe a White Tail Deer taking a sip of water. It’s also the excitement of a small section of swift water to navigate or just enjoying a delicious lunch on an island of

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sand in the middle of the river. Finally, there is nothing better to quench the Texas heat than a nice dip in the cool water of the Colorado River.

If you are in search for something different and truly Texas, then a canoe trip down the crooked Colorado River could just what you are searching for. Reach out to Rob and his experienced team at Camp Kubena to find out more details and offerings that are available at Camp Kubena.

Float the Colorado River!

Camp Kubena now offers a Colorado River Canoeing Experience Incredible scenery and wildlife on this beautiful and challenging tour from Smithville to La Grange.

Our professionally trained guides will provide you with an unforgettable experience.

For more details or to book: 979-220-4256 • robc@spjst.com campkubena.com

Community theatre In this, its sixth season, the Fayette County Community Theatre has opened a box office and studio space on the square, plan to produce three full length plays, hold their annual middle school/high school workshop, participate in La Grange and Fayette County events, and offer monthly workshops and open mic nights!

After spending five years bringing the arts to La Grange and Fayette County, the theatre group is excited to have a space of their own. “We are so happy to be able to offer in-person ticket sales, workshops and open mic night events,” said Operations Manager Heather Barthelme.

“If someone needs a space to offer music, art, or theater lessons, we have space to do that, too!”

FCCT held their grand opening event midFebruary and hosted Blue Mule Winery for the Uncorked Wine Stroll. “It was so exciting to have so many people come through our new space and learn about our plans for this year,” said Vice President of Productions Melissa Weltner. Weltner will direct the first full-length production of 2022, the May 13-15 production of the hilarious comedy “The Play That Goes Wrong” at the Sanford Schmid Amphitheater on the grounds of the Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center.

throughout the year! FCCT holds open mic nights every third Thursday, and monthly workshops teaching stage make-up, costuming, public speaking and other art-related topics. They will also continue to participate in community events such as Summer Movie Nights, Trickor-Treat on the Square, the Fayette County Fair, and Schmeckenfest. “We are so glad to be able to participate in La Grange events from our own on-the-square location, and we are also looking to branch out more into the county and get involved in Fayetteville, Schulenburg, Flatonia and Round Top,” said Barthelme.

Stop by and see what they are up to at,

120 S. Washington, La Grange, Tuesday-Friday, 11am-3pm and by appointment.

The summer Middle School/High School Workshop in June and the student production “Peter Pan and Wendy” in August will be held for the first time at the La Grange Performing Arts Center, also under Weltner’s direction.

“We’re looking forward to partnering with LGISD this summer,” she said. In November, Barthelme and FCCT alum and board treasurer Ellen Hardin will co-direct the classic play “The Great Gatsby,” back at the TCHCC but in the pavilion/round up hall.

Can’t wait for one of these major productions?

The group has something planned monthly

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Ropes course

D aily worship

Lutherhill Ministries Lutherhill is planning and preparing to welcome happy campers for action-packed days of camp fun! Whether your camper attends during our day camp or stays overnight, the experience of a lifetime awaits – swimming, camp games, devotions, sing-a-longs, archery, campfires, ropes course, slingshot, pond activities, s’mores, sports AND MORE! And, above all of the activities and experiences, there are so many benefits to sending your kids to summer camp at Lutherhill.

Here are just a few benefits of camp:

FAITH!

At Lutherhill, campers explore faith through interactive bible studies, worships and cabin devotions. We encourage campers to engage their faith with a sense of wonder rather than certainty. This wonder ignites a passion for lifelong faith exploration.

AFFIRMATION!

Our young adult staff are specially trained to engage campers in all camp activities while honoring their individual needs. While our top priority will always be safety, a close second is ensuring that your camper is valued and loved by our young adult staff. We want all campers to know that they are beloved children of our God. 16

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COMMUNITY!

Camp is structured to build meaningful relationships!

Campers at Lutherhill live together in cabins and are partnered with another cabin group to create a ‘village’.

As a village, campers make decisions together, serve each other and share all the joys and challenges of camp.

It’s a great way to practice living well with others.

ADVENTURE!

All our beloved camp activities and lots of freshly minted, improvised activities keep campers fully engaged every day! Beyond these stated activities, we make space to revel in God’s creation – surrounded by live oak trees and starlight. Campers are encouraged to try new things and most of all have fun!

At Lutherhill, we believe camp should be a fun, safe place to grow and just be a kid.

Join us for the BEST. WEEK. EVER. at Lutherhill today! www.lutherhill.org/all-summer-camps

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Open Camp Day D ay | June 4, 2022

A fun, free day for the whole family to explore Lutherhill!

Onsite Day D a y Camp Completed Kindergarten - 5th Grade

Overnight Ov v e rnight Camp (3-night Sessions) Completed 1st Grade

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Overnight Camp (1-week Sessions) TU

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Leadership Camp (2-week Sessions)

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Completed 9th - 12th Grade

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SUMMER FUN AT THE CLUB!

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fayette county Fair The Fayette County Fair Association and its Board of Directors is working very hard to put together an exceptional fair for 2022. Tickets go on sale July 1, 2022.

We have secured this year’s musical entertainment. This line up will be announced at a later date. We are very excited about this line up and hope you will be too. The four-day run of the Fair includes a wide variety of musical entertainment from local artists to Nashville stars. They will be on three different stages with music being played the majority of the time the Fair is open each day.

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We are also very happy to announce that Heart of America Shows will be returning as our carnival. They will be bringing some amazing rides! We will have plenty of commercial and food vendors for your shopping and eating pleasures, Other activities on the grounds will be the Fayette County Fair Queens Contest, the Little Miss and Mr Contest, Mutton Bustin, Bucket Calf Show, Washer Pitching Contest and some livestock shows. Ag Adventures is returning with some new displays and activities for the kids. We will have the 5K Run and the Parade off grounds as usual.

Get ready to have a great time Labor Day weekend!

©2022 The Fayette County Record

September 2-5, 2022 Tickets on Sale July 1st!

r

Bucket Calves at the fai

ENTERTAINMENT TO BE ANNOUNCED! Carnival All Weekend!

Heart of America Shows will be returning.

WE HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE! www.fayettecountyfair.org 2022 SUMMER FUN GUIDE

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Caption

Bluff Schuetzenverein fest n e tz u e h c S ff u l B The 2022 , 4 1 y a M s n r tu e r tr adition

For nearly a millennium, humans have been called to the bluff overlooking the Colorado River near present-day La Grange. Perhaps Indigenous Americans and later European settlers used the Bluff to survey the territory that would become Fayette County.

Post-statehood citizens chose the Bluff as the final resting place for Texas soldiers who died in service to the Republic. Still today, families gather on the bluff for picnics, reunions, weddings, and other celebrations. Maybe it’s the view, its geographical prominence, or an indescribable sense of place that has attracted our ancestors and our families to the bluff for so long. Yet it’s no wonder that early German Texans chose this location as their gathering place for the Bluff Schuetzenverein.

Schuetzenvereine (plural for Schuetzenverein), or marksmanship societies, originated in 12th century Europe. Towns formed militia groups to prevent riots and provide defense against foreign enemies. Most societies were well-organized with formal traditions, patron saints, regalia, and banners. Schuetzevereine also hosted annual festivals, or Schuetzenfests, that may have been analogous to our county fairs today.

Many German immigrants brought their Schuetzenverein traditions to the US in the 19th

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Picnic with the Past

century. The first American Schuetzenverein was organized in Philadelphia in 1846. Other Schuetzenvereine quickly popped up in and around large GermanAmerican population centers. The clubs often established community centers, many of which were quite extravagant. In addition to a shooting range, some clubs had dance halls, music pavilions, refreshment stands, picnic areas, athletic fields, parks, and even zoos and roller coasters. By contrast, our Texas Schuetzenvereine were a little more modest—often simple wooden structures where German-Texans could socialize and practice their marksmanship. No matter their size, all Schuetzenvereine had two things in common: a place to shoot a gun and a place to drink a beer.

Beginning in the 1870s, the Bluff Schuetzenverein leased property from the Kreische family and constructed a shooting range and dance pavilion just yards from the tomb of Dawson and Mier Expedition soldiers. A concession stand was also constructed from which Kreische likely sold his Bluff Beer.

These post-competition festivities embody the true spirit and purpose of the Bluff Schuetzenverein—a social organization that unites and builds community.

The Bluff Schuetzenverein held balls and music performances throughout the year. Texans came from neighboring counties and beyond to dance the night away to German brass bands and other musical acts, some of which traveled from across the US to perform at the Bluff Schuetzenverein pavilion.

©2020 The Fayette County Record

As a club rooted in marksmanship, the Bluff Schuetzenverein organized shooting competitions throughout the year. Their largest annual competition, known as the King Shoot, was typically held in late May or early June. Competitors came from as far away as Galveston to participate. At King Shoots, participants fired three shots at wooden targets with 12-13 hand painted rings. The person who scored the most rings was crowned King for a year. Tradition has it that the King was required to buy a keg of beer to share among his fellow competitors. King Shoots and other shooting competitions didn’t end when the last shot was fired.

Celebrations often ensued with picnicking, refreshments (namely beer), dancing, and just a good old time.

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2022 SUMMER FUN GUIDE

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Families also gathered around the Schuetzenverein pavilion for community picnics and holiday celebrations.

Newspaper articles recount festive commemorations on San Jacinto Day and July 4th, among others. For decades, local residents reflected nostalgically upon the Easter egg hunts where thousands of boiled eggs were dyed and scattered about the grounds surrounding the Schuetzenverein pavilion.

The Bluff became a favorite gathering place among German-Texans as the Schuetzenverein provided a place to preserve and share German heritage in Texas. The German language was widely spoken, German music was commonly heard, and German holidays were regularly celebrated. However, the Schuetzenverein also helped immigrants and their families transition to life in Texas and the US. Members introduced each other to potential business partners

outside the German community. The society united around uniquely Texas and American holidays like San Jacinto and Independence Day. The Schuetzenverein joined other German organizations as players in American politics by encouraging voter participation and advocating against prohibition in the early 20th century. As anti-German sentiment rose in the wake of WWI, the Bluff Schuetzenverein recognized the need to fully embrace their Texas home by adopting English as the official language of the society.

With the ban of alcohol sales at the onset of Prohibition in January 1920, Schuetzenvereine across the country struggled to provide the atmosphere that had been traditionally enjoyed for two generations.

The Bluff Scuhetzenverein continued to offer dances and other gathering, though with limited offerings at their concession stand. Attendance ebbed and flowed over the next few years, so the Schuetzenverein sold the structures on the Bluff in 1928. A neighbor removed the structure and repurposed the lumber for a house and farm structures.

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The society faded into memory and the sounds of shooting competitions, brass bands, and communal gatherings fell silent on the bluff. But not forever…

Inspired by the rich history of the Bluff Schuetzenverein, the Friends of Kreische Brewery & Monument Hill State Historic Sites are excited to revive and reimagine many of the society’s traditions at the inaugural Bluff SchuetzenFest on May 14, 2022. A family fest, 10 am-4 pm, will feature live German and Texas music, historical games, a shooting gallery with a modern twist, living history activities, community booths, special tours and programs, food, and drink, and more. Admission to the day-time family fest is free.

Bluff SchuetzenFest will conclude with Texas History on Tap, 5-8pm, where ticketed guests can sample a variety of Texas craft beers, meet the teams behind some of Texas’s most celebrated breweries, enjoy German food, and dance the night away to live music.

For more than 50 years, Bluff Schuetzenverein gatherings were renowned for their ability to unite

the community and distract from the challenges of everyday life. “Young and old have gathered there and forgot their business cares and worries for the day,” reported the La Grange Journal in February 1921. More than a century later, the former grounds of the Bluff Schuetzenverein will be enlivened in this spirit once again as the community gathers for a new annual tradition, the Bluff SchuetzenFest.

Inaugural Bluff SchuetzenFest on May 14, 2022 A family fest, 10 am-4 pm, will feature live German and Texas music, historical games, a shooting gallery with a modern twist, living history activities, community booths, special tours and programs, food, and drink, and more.

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MAGNOLIA DAYS FESTIVAL BRINGS BIG TIME FUN TO COLUMBUs CHAMBER TO HOST ANNUAL FESTIVAL MAY 20-21 ON HISTORIC COURTHOUSE SQUARE

Excitement is brewing in Columbus as the Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for the 2022 Magnolia Days Festival, presented by Todd and Morgan Barten.

Everyone’s invited to the Courthouse Square on Friday and Saturday, May 20 and 21, to enjoy two fun-filled days of festival activities including delicious food, a Biergarten featuring Texas craft beers and local wines, and a Family Fun Zone with activities for both the young and “young at heart” including a petting zoo, pony rides, bounce houses, trackless train rides, carnival games, and a whole lot more.

Magnolia Days will also feature dozens of vendors offering a variety of arts and crafts, jewelry, candles, clothing, soaps, and other unique items for sale. In addition to the vendors on the Square, many Downtown merchants will also be open during the festival. It’s a true shopper’s paradise! You’re sure to find something special for your loved ones as well as a little something for yourself!

The Food Village will be bursting with food and drinks galore! Enjoy sno-cones, crawfish, corndogs, nachos, funnel cakes, burgers, gyros, cheesesteaks, 24

2022 SUMMER FUN GUIDE

French fries, cheese fries, chili fries, curly fries, ribbon fries, fajitas, burritos, tacos, po’ boys, ice cream, peanuts, pretzels, Frito pies, popcorn, roasted corn, kettle corn, and street corn. Whether you’re craving something sweet or savory, you’ll find it at Magnolia Days! We encourage you to wear your stretchy pants!

On Saturday, Magnolia Days Festival guests can enjoy a relaxing horse and wagon ride around the neighborhood, prove their salt on the mechanical bull, or take aim at the dunking booth.

A fantastic lineup of concerts will keep everyone dancing in the streets well into the night. Free live concerts featuring Wade Bowen, Big Richard, The Slags, Kaitlin Butts, The Damn Quails, the Zack Walther Band, and the Shiner Hobo Band and other local favorites are open to the public. This year’s live entertainment is sponsored by Cavender Auto Country.

In partnership with the Magnolia Days Festival, the Live Oak Art Center will host a photo contest celebrating the historical sites around Columbus. All ages are welcome to enter and cash prizes will be awarded. A gallery exhibit of all entries will be exhibited at the Live Oak Art Center during the festival. Winners will be announced during the festival.

More information on the exhibit can be found on the Art Center’s website at www.liveoakartcenter.org.

A Classic Car Show will be held on Saturday, beginning at noon. Entry is open to cars, trucks, motorcycles, and custom-modified vehicles. Check-in and registration will begin at 9 a.m. and judging will begin at 12 p.m.

Awards in multiple categories will be presented. The car show is open to the public. To enter a vehicle in the competition, call (979) 732-8385 for information.

In conjunction with the Columbus Historic Preservation Trust (CHPT), Magnolia Days will offer guided trolley tours and self-guided walking tours of more than a dozen of Columbus’ historic properties. The guided trolley tours will begin at the Stafford Opera House and will run from 2:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. on Saturday.

The annual presentation of the Magnolia Belles will take place on Friday at 7:00 p.m. on the second floor

There are plenty of kids activities at Magnolia Days

Come to Columbus May 20-21

of the Stafford Opera House and again at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday on the Courthouse Square. The Belles will visit the historic properties on tour on Saturday afternoon.

The Magnolia Belles, high school seniors who dress in Victorian-era dresses, have been a beloved tradition in Columbus for 60 years. The Belles are ambassadors of goodwill for both CHPT and the City of Columbus.

“We are excited to bring Magnolia Days to the public once again,” said Amber Becerra, Festival chair. “We’ve been busy planning for the last year and it’s all coming together to make this year’s festival the biggest and best yet! There will be so many fun things to do during the two days. It’s definitely ‘big time fun in small town Texas!’”

More Magnolia Days Festival information can be found at www.magnoliadays.org or on Facebook at @MagnoliaDaysFestival.

The fun begins at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, May 20 and at noon on Saturday, May 21. The Columbus Chamber of Commerce looks forward to seeing everyone on the Square for the 2022 Magnolia Days Festival!

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City of la grange is sponsored by the Casino Arts Association.

Registration for the Summer Reading Program begins on June 1 and participants can read to win weekly prizes from local businesses.

e th n o ts h ig n e i v o M e g n a r G a L n i e r a u sq Summer at the Library Every Wednesday, the Fayette Public Library will host free performances for children of all ages. The events will be held in Heritage Park just outside of the library and start at 10:15 a.m. Set sail on June 8 when the 2022 events kick off with a visit from real pirates! Don’t miss your chance to experience this interactive nautical performance — with a refreshing splash of science! Summer Story Hour will take place every Thursday in June and July at 10:15 a.m. outside of the library. Come enjoy free crafts, snacks, and stories starting June 9.

Get out of the heat and watch the Great Promise Dancers perform. Watch the history, stories, and traditions of American Indians come alive through songs and dance on July 13 at 10:15a.m. at the Historic Casino Hall. This special performance 26

2022 SUMMER FUN GUIDE

Movie Nights of the Square Movie Nights on the Square are back and better than ever. La Grange Main Street and Visitors Bureau has chosen a few soon to be classics for you and your family to enjoy on the Courthouse lawn this summer, all for free. “Encanto” will be showing on June 3. “Brave” storms into town on June 10 and last but certainly not least, “Soul” on July 8. Beginning at 7 p.m., there will be games, live music, crafts, and tasty treats to enjoy, thanks to the support of La Grange’s local businesses. The movies begin at 8.30 p.m. Please be sure to bring blankets and lawn chairs to have the best experience.

Summer at the Rec Center The Randolph Recreation Center is holding its Summer Day Camps again this year, with week-day activities for children age 5-12, Kindergarten through entering 6th grade.

Registration begins May 4, from 4-6 p.m. at the Recreation Center. Camp will begin May 31 and go through early August.

The West Gym will have open court Monday to Friday starting May 31 from 1-4 p.m. at the cost of only $1 per person if you just want a place to play for the day (Please note that the gym will be closed July 4th). Youth must be aged 8 and up to attend without supervision.

Get Out of the Heat and Swim The City’s municipal pool will be open Wednesdays through Sundays in June, July and early August, with open swim from 1-5 p.m. The nominal fee to enjoy the pool is $1 for youth and seniors, children under 3 go free and adults pay just $2 to enjoy the pool. Youth aged 8 and under and non-swimmers must be accompanied by an adult or responsible teen.

The City of La Grange presents

Summer

Summer

at the Rec Center

on the Square All Movies Start at 8:30pm.

Camp y a D r e Summ e - August n Ju

151 N. Washington Street.

Join us from 7pm – 8pm for LIVE MUSIC

Open Court Mon-Fri 1-4 pm

Open Swim June -August Wed - Sun 1-5pm Friday, June 3

Rec Center 979.968.5600 653 E. Pearl St. La Grange

Pool 979.966.0605 480 W. Colorado La Grange

Friday, June 10

Friday, July 8

SNACKS, DRINKS and KIDS’ ACTIVITIES 7pm – 8pm 979.968.3017 • www.visitlagrangetx.com

Summer Reading Programs at the Library Thrilling free entertainment every Wed. at 10:15am June 8-July 27

Crocodile Encounter

Wild Things Zoofari

Magic Shows

every Thursday at 10:15am June 9-July 28

Great Promise for American Indians Special Program P at the Historic Casino Hall Wed. JJuly 13th 10:15am 254 N. Je Jefferson • La Grange

Follow us @FPLMA on Facebook for full schedule of events

979.968.3765 • 855 S. Jefferson in La Grange

©2020 The Fayette County Record

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ROUND TOP Arts for Rural Texas................................................11 Beverly Banks, Realtor........................................17 Brawley Dental......................................................28

© The Fayette County Record

PARADE PARADE MONDAY, JULY 4, 2022

Camp Kubena..........................................................14 Cavender Polaris....................................................31 City of La Grange...................................................27 Encore Piano Studio..............................................21 Fayette County Fair Association.....................19 Fayette County Community Theatre.............15

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The Fayette County Record.............................28 Fixin’ Things............................................................30 Frisch Auf! Valley Country Club....................17

Home/Business Improvement

Gourmet Divas........................................................22 Hatfield Dental Clinic..........................................3 Kleiber Tractor & Equipment Inc…....................4 Kreische Brewery & Monument Hill...............21 La Grange Eye Care...............................................23 Lutherhill Ministries..............................................17 Magnolia Days Festival ........................................32 Round Top Rifle Association............................30 Splashway Waterpark & Campgrounds......13 Tex Propane Co....................................................28 Texas Irrigation & Pipe......................................28 Thunder by the Colorado ..................................29 Train Stations TX ....................................................2

Remodeling & Restoration 30

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