• melissa@hillcountrysun.com
WAG WIMBERLEY ADOPTION GROUP & RESCUE
By ERNIE ALGELT
While we’ve all heard the old phrase, “treated like a dog,” with its traditionally negative connotation, for most of us an opposite definition would be much more appropriate. Why, we just love our four-footed, furry and frolicking friends and happily lavish heaps of heartfelt affection on healthily maintaining these most welcome additions to our families – right? Well, while thankfully true for the vast majority of us, unfortunately some dogs do suffer (emotionally and physically), often through abandonment, abuse and neglect. We’ve all witnessed it and it’s ugly, wrong and needs to be addressed. To that end, in one corner of the beautiful Hill Country exists an amazing organization devoted solely to the rehabilitation, restoration and reunion of the hurt, unwanted or lost canine. Known appropriately as “WAG Rescue” (short for Wimberley Adoption Group and Rescue), this group of committed caregivers truly has become one of man’s best friend’s, best friend. Arf!
Located in tiny Driftwood, very near artsy Wimberley, WAG Rescue has been doing its good work since 2009. Founded by two admittedly dog-loving ladies, Patricia Davis and Debbie Nordyke (both Wimberley residents), the pair was all too aware of the regular “dumping of dogs” in their primarily rural area. Realizing that there were no other rescue centers within 25-miles of Wimberley and, that the entire county of Hays had only four overworked animal control officers, the need became clear to start something as an actual organization with a targeted focus on this problem. At the onset, WAG Rescue, with no facilities yet and a small unpaid staff, relied on a network of voluntary foster homes where the first needful animals received were taken in on a temporary basis, nurtured and, above all, shown love while awaiting adoption or reunification with their former owners.
Through extensive research, advice from existing shelters and various animal experts coupled with lots of on-the-job learning, Pat and Debbie (now retired) slowly grew their organization into the much more capable undertaking it is today that as Pat relates, “now features a sixacre compound that includes kennels, a health/rehab center, nursery, offices, exercise areas and more where each animal is initially brought, assessed and treated, before being placed in a foster home or ideally, being adopted into a new or reunited with their original family – our ultimate aim.” More on-site expansion and improvements are currently underway.
See WAG RESCUE, Page 7
BRIE
POCO
Since inception, and besides returning lost pets, WAG Rescue remarkably has found new homes for more than 2,000 formerly unwanted, often-mistreated dogs, many entering the program suffering from illnesses including malnutrition, mange and other debilitating conditions. Along with the volunteer interventions, WAG pets were able to receive professional treatment at discounted rates from supportive area veterinarians who continue today to provide the spaying, neutering and other health-related services mandatory for all animals coming into the system. While current staff and volunteer numbers vary, Pat attests, “Finding compassionate, sometime technically trained participants has never been a problem but, since we are generally dealing with about 50 dogs at any given time, we are always looking for more help.”
That help extends beyond the actual dog handling, rehab and adoption. Wimberley Adoption Group and Rescue, beyond assessing adoption fees, as a recognized non-profit relies heavily on private donations and fund raisers which include their not-to-be-missed major effort, the WAGala, a cocktail and dinner party with exciting silent and live auctions which is held annually. The organization is also supported by its retail outlet located in downtown Wimberley, “Treasures on Twelve,” a resale shop full of “treasures” including art, jewelry, home décor, antiques and more.
So if you love dogs and happy endings, you will love the WAG Rescue organization. Looking for a four-legged canine companion, new or lost (sorry, no cats at WAG Rescue), pay a visit to the Driftwood facility (by appointment only) or visit the website for the larger story. If you already have a beloved dog but can appreciate all that WAG Rescue continues to do on behalf of this often-underserved wagging population, please contribute – time, money or, anything else for these pooches in need of help. Photos courtesy WAG
FYI • Treasures on Twelve is located at 13620 Ranch Road 12, Building A, in Wimberley open Tuesday through Saturday 10 am to 4 pm. For more information about adoptions and contributions, etc., call 512-847-3200 or visit wimberleywagrescue.org.
FOURTH FRIDAYS
Join us the fourth Friday of every month for a night of art, entertainment and special events! Galleries and some businesses will be open later for a fun filled Wimberley evening.
Willow Lake WATERING HOLE & MERCANTILE
By BONNIE EISSLER
Music and art are meant to be shared. Listening to music, watching sports or playing games over a round of drinks or tacos strengthen bonds with friends, family and bring people from different backgrounds together to foster a sense of unity. Willow Lake Watering Hole & Mercantile, a vintage Texas-inspired bar and music venue, has been a welcome addition to downtown Wimberley since opening last April on the weekend of the highly anticipated 2024 total solar eclipse.
Owners Chloe Glasscock and Greg McBride saw a need to showcase the many talented local musicians, songwriters and artisans who flock to Wimberley and the Texas Hill Country seeking a creative, community-oriented environment.
Chloe’s beloved parents, Nuccia and Lonnie Glasscock III, founded the original Willow Lake Dance Hall in Old San Patricio in 1973, a year after townspeople there defeated an annexation attempt by the city of Corpus Christi. “Their love for community drew all kinds of folks and families from miles around together to gather, listen to local music, dance and have a dang good time,” Chloe reminisces.
Carrying on the family tradition of hospitality and community
service comes naturally to Chloe. The cozy interior and peaceful welcoming ambience at Willow Lake are a tribute to her creative vision. The rustic venue is adorned with antiques, vintage western memorabilia and music posters, cozy nooks, and large windows framing picturesque views.
The bar facade features reclaimed wood and the ceiling in the bar room has been stripped down to its lovely original state. Mounted Longhorns, measuring well over nine feet, hang over the mantel of the old rock fireplace. Décor inside and out is eclectic and achieves the wonderful warm “grandad’s ranch house vibe” that Chloe had in mind.
Twenty-four beautiful heritage oaks on the nearly one-acre property overlooking Cypress Creek send a symbolic message of strength and endurance. The huge wrap-around porch invites folks to sit back and stay a while. Chloe says, “it’s a space that effortlessly transitions from a laid-back daytime escape to an electrifying evening of live music and celebration.”
Chloe’s education and work is in culinary arts and restaurant management. In 2010, she moved to Wimberley looking for a smaller town to live in and raise her family. Being self-employed and “creating a space for people to make memories” is the perfect gig for Chloe and
See WILLOW LAKE, Page 10
Greg McBride and Chloe Glasscock, Willow Lake Watering Hole & Mercantile owners. Photo by Bonnie Eissler.
L-R Michael Samuels, Laura and Marvin Bottera
Photo by Bonnie Eissler.
VINTAGE TEXAS ECLECTIC VIBE
2,000 square foot pavilion for music & dancing 1,600 square foot porch for watching the game on one of four TVs
The rustic yet refined venue is adorned with antiques, reclaimed wood, cozy nooks, and large windows that frame the picturesque views of Cypress Creek and 24 Heritage oaks speckled throughout the ¾ acre property. Grab a drink and a table game, have a round of cornhole, or just relax watch the game. Always kid and critter friendly.
Shop our
showcasing local artists & artisans
partner Greg, a retired server-side architect. Together, they’ve built an already iconic hangout in town, a place for locals to call home that’s a natural draw for tourists and out-of-towners because, as everyone knows, the locals always know the best places.
Willow Lake offers a full calendar of live music, often featuring local and regional singer songwriters such as Sam Downing, Manzy Lowry, The Percolators, as well as favorite regular events like Happy Hour, Margarita Monday and Vinyl Potluck where people are invited to play old records – “it’s like a car show for classic vinyl,” Chloe says. Plans for April include screening old movies on the pavilion.
A taco truck on site serves up phenomenal authentic Mexican food (the guacamole is a standout) and there’s full bar service and lots of local beers with nine on draft. So, grab a drink and one of the table games, play a round of cornhole, or just relax and watch the game on one of the many TVs. Oh, and “it’s always kid and critter friendly” at the Willow Lake Watering Hole. Photos courtesy Willow Lake.
FYI • Willow Lake Watering Hole & Mercantile is located at 110 Old Kyle Road. Hours are Sunday noon to 11 pm, Monday through Thursday 1 pm to midnight, Friday 1 pm to 2 am and Saturday 11 am to 2 am. Willow Lake is ideal for social gatherings of any kind with catering and musicians easily arranged. For more information about private events and to see the live music schedule, visit willowlakemerc.com.
WILLOW LAKE, from Page 8
The original Willow Lake sign from San Patricio, Texas. Photo by Bonnie Eissler.
The Grateful Angler
By BONNIE EISSLER
Fly fishing is a great way to escape the hassles and hectic pace of the so-called “real world” and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the natural world. The Grateful Angler is a fully insured CPR certified guide service with 11 guides who love fishing and the great outdoors and are eager to help you plan a day or half day on the water, whether you’re a novice fly fisherman or an old hand trout whisperer who ties his own wooly buggers, nymphs and dry flies.
Paul Torrez, captain and guide, has been passionate about fishing for as long as he can remember. He has fond memories of his brandnew Snoopy rod, his dad taking him fishing, and the first time he stepped into that creek.
“It was my first real adventure on the water,” he recalls, “it was also the beginning of what has become a lifetime passion.”
After Paul was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2013, his passion for fishing intensified exponentially along with a desire to fully engage in the present moment and experience life to the fullest. “I was bucket listing it for a while,” he recalls, “but that experience [two surgeries, a year of chemotherapy, a month of radiation] changed the course of my life.” Paul, who had previously worked in churches and non-profits, knew right away there was no going back. “Fishing was the one thing that helped me forget the turmoil of cancer.”
At the end of 2013, Paul and a buddy went trout fishing in New Mexico, Montana and Colorado. While he was still in recovery, still on chemotherapy, he was given an opportunity to guide with a friend in the Texas Hill Country. They set out on a four-day raft trip down the famed wild and scenic Devil’s River.
That marked the beginning of a new career for Paul, guiding river raft trips for trout on the Guadalupe (the southernmost trout fishery in America); bass on the San Marcos; Canyon Lake fishing; local wade trips on the Blanco. It’s a beautiful life. Wading in a stream, casting flies upon the water, rafting on the river all connect us to nature. Fishing also teaches patience; a trait that’s in short supply in the modern world. Some military veterans experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have benefited from fishing therapy, saying they feel
See GRATEFUL ANGLER, Page 14
Paul Torrez, fishing captain and guide, of The Grateful Angler. He’s also the proprietor of The Grateful Angler Fishing & Lure Shop on the Wimberley Square.
Photo courtesy The Grateful Angler.
more relaxed, happy and focused while fishing. As American naturalist and philosopher, Henry David Thoreau, suggested when he wrote “many men go fishing all their lives without knowing that it is not fish they are after,” it is often the intangible benefits and experiences that bring true fulfillment.
Fly fishing uses an ultra-lightweight artificial fly, that typically mimics small flying and aquatic insects, to attract and catch fish. The first record of true fly fishing comes from Roman author Aelius’s book, On the Nature of Animals, written in 200 A.D. that tells about the Macedonians attaching red wool and two feathers to a hook to imitate the Hippurus fly.
Paul shares some ideas on the art of fly tying. “It offers a connection to our living waters (rivers) that flow through the Hill Country and an opportunity for you to creatively immerse yourself into the experience of fly fishing by matching the food source that sustains the fish. Most important ... it’s fun! There’s a community of fly tyers that help each other and create new flies to catch fish and have fun.”
The Grateful Angler Fly & Lure Shop provides a wide range of fly and conventional options for fishing local rivers, creeks and lakes. The shop has some terrific gift items, including books, stickers, T-shirts, caps and koozies. Particularly noteworthy are the art pieces from Jules Buck Jones, an art professor at Texas State University. Jones’ amazing animal and nature inspired creations have been exhibited throughout Texas and his native Virginia. Photos by Bonnie Eissler.
FYI • The Grateful Angler Fly & Lure Shop is located at 103 Old Kyle Road. For more information and to book guided fishing trips, visit thegratefulangler.com or call 806-577-6650. The shop is open Monday and Thursday through Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm.
The Torrez family. Photo courtesy The Grateful Angler.
Paul Torrez in his shop.
Shop Wimberley Market Days the first Saturday of every month, March through December, from 7 am to 4 pm (rain or shine). You can peruse 475-plus booths filled with treasures along wide, paved, tree-shaded lanes, and choose from a variety of food and drink to enjoy. You’ll find everything you can’t live without. Local musicians gather at the spacious Lions Pavilion and entertain the crowds who sit in the shade to eat, drink and rest. Plenty of clean restroom facilities are provided, too. Admission is free; parking available for a donation. Wimberley Lions Club Market Day is at 601 FM 2325. There is ample parking in three Lions Club lots, plus other nearby private lots. For information, visit shopmarketdays.com.
In Style Accessories
By ERNIE ALGELT
What do you get when you take two respected national, independent wholesale execs in the “shoe biz looking for their own gig, then introduce them to a well-established small town shoe store that happens to be lucky enough to be in the heart of the beautiful Texas Hill Country and finally add in a current owner who wants to sell and retire? Well, there’s only one answer we can think of and that’s Wimberley’s one and only In Style Accessories footwear (and more) boutique.
Yep, the combination of the laid back location (Creekside, off the square) coupled with an already “going” enterprise then mixing in a pair of experienced pros full of fresh ideas and you’ve got a no brainer for success. Or, as the soon-to-be owners said at the time, “If the shoe fits … then let’s buy it!” And that’s exactly what they did.
A s mentioned, In Style Accessories (known by many simply as the Wimberley shoe store) has been around (for decades in fact) in its original location and was doing quite well. The founder was a local - Larry Broadway - who catered to area residents, more senior and female than not.
Rob Garrett and Chad Stanley are the two traveling wholesaling reps (and best buds) who purchased the store from him in 2021. Prior to that, Chad, as a sales representative living in New Braunfels had often called on Larry, became friends over the years and, after mentioning one day that he might like to purchase In Style should it ever become available, was surprised (and delighted) when Larry eventually took him up on the offer.
At that point, Chad contacted Rob, who lives in Wisconsin, got him excited and a deal was consummated making the duo two very thrilled first-time store owners.
Since the purchase, Rob and Chad totally respected what Larry had lovingly built during his ownership but, felt they could expand the store’s offerings and appeal to a more diverse (primarily) feminine clientele. To that end, the savvy salesmen developed a mixed national and international product line that would interest (and impress) the younger shopper as well the more mature. Their years of experience in the industry gave each an insight into what consumers (of all ages) wanted, especially in a shopping mecca like Wimberley with its steady
See IN STYLE ACCESSORIES, Page 18
L-R Rob Garrett and Chad Stanley, In Style Accessories owners. Photo courtesy In Style Accessories.
influx of visiting tourists who traditionally spent a lot of time on their feet as they went store to store. As Chad relates, “What better business can you have in a town where everyone walks?” A smiling Rob adds, “And our footwear really is unbelievably comfortable!”
So, what’s at In Style Accessories? Well, for starters, it resides in a “house.” The small 1800-square-foot cottage near the creek was a private residence years ago but has been wonderfully transformed into a cheerful shopping venue where each separate room showcases distinct offerings.
Functional and attractive athletic shoes dominate one room while another showcases the latest in high-quality seasonal wear. High fashion footwear and casuals have their special places too. And, not to forget the guys, there’s even a “man cave” replete with products perfect for more masculine feet.
Also, besides the extensive inventory of hundreds of pairs of shoes, boots and sandals, In Style includes a large assortment of really cool socks, sunglasses, even purses and bags and other neat, complementary items.
Lastly, to ensure a positive experience, the highly trained and welcoming staff is always ready to advise, help and guarantee that perfect fit, every time.
But it’s the actual shoes that make the store and regarding that, the world-class brands on hand (or perhaps feet) featuring some of the most popular European and American manufacturers, include Birkenstock, On Running, All Black, Kizik, Sorel, Bedstu, OluKai, Stanley, Darn Tough, Bajio, Peepers and other notable labels. Wow!
And, as mentioned, additional items are available as well which now also include an exclusive line Rob and Chad developed called Ranch Road 12 products, featuring thermoses, outdoor hats and even custom knives. Really, with such diverse and unique offerings at a charming “small town” store, guests are always smilingly surprised by what’s on display and seldom leave without something – in their shopping bag or, on right their feet! Yep, at In Style, “If the shoe fits… then you will buy it! Photos courtesy In Style Accessories.
FYI • In Style Accessories is located just off the town square at 107 Old Kyle Road. Monday through Saturday 10 am to 5:30 pm and Sunday 11 am to 5 pm. For more information, call 512-847-1765 or find In Style Accessories on Facebook.
EVERY SUNDAY
The Market at Blanco Brew
Expect a wide variety of fresh, locally grown produce, handcrafted products, and delicious food options. Open 9 am to 1 pm. 14200 Ranch Road 12.
FIRST SUNDAY
Wimberley Coffee & Cars
Experience the perfect blend of adrenaline-fueled automotive beauty and delicious caffeinated delights. 8 am to 11 am. Blanco Brew, 14200 Ranch Road 12.
EVERY MONDAY
Toddler Time at the Wimberley Village Library
For kids ages 0-3. 10:30 am at in the Wimberley Community Room. 400 FM 2325. 512-847-2188.
EVERY MONDAY
Mommy and Me Yoga
Cultivate connection: breath, movement, and community. 9:15 am. 400 FM 2325. 512-847-2188.
EVERY TUESDAY
Bilingual Story Time at the Wimberley Village Library
For kids ages 0-6. 10:30 am at in the Youth Area. 400 FM 2325. Call 512-847-2188 for more information.
EVERY WEDNESDAY
Weekly Song Circle
Hosted by John Conboy. Musicians invited to share. 6:30 pm to 9 pm. Savage’s Hill Country Bar. 9595 Ranch Road 12. 512-842-3114.
EVERY WEDNESDAY
Ease Chair Exercises.
10 am at Wimberley Village Library. 400 FM 2325. 512-847-2188.
See EVENTS, Page 23
DINING GUIDE
Blanco Brew
14200 Ranch Road 12.
Organic coffee, fresh pastries, lunch specials and daily dessert specials. Monday-Friday 6:30 am to 6:30 pm, Saturday and Sunday 7:30 am to 6:30 pm. blancobrew.com, 512-842-3400.
Brookshire Brothers Deli
14100 Ranch Road 12. 512-847-2296
Breakfast, lunch & dinner, signature fried chicken and beer on tap. Delivery & Curbside pickup available.
Chill’s on the Creek
14004 Ranch Road 12, on the Square Casual bar & grill. Indoor and great deck seating overlooking Cypress Creek. chillsonthecreek.com, 512-847-6060
Community Pizza & Beer Garden
111 Old Kyle Road.
Family friendly with live music, cold beer, full bar, house made pizza. communitybeergarden.com, 512-412-0914.
Creekhouse Kitchen + Bar
14015 Ranch Road 12
Modern Texas Fare & Finely Crafted Cocktails on Cypress Creek. creekhousewtx.com, 512-722-3394.
Dairy Queen
14600 Ranch Road 12. 10 am to 11 pm daily. 512-847-3670.
Dos Olivos Market
13904 Ranch Road 12. Food, wine. dosolivosmarkets.com, 512-842-3044
Driftwood Bistro
4001 Elder Hill Road, Dritwood Amazing views! thedriftwoodbistro.com, 737-414-0222
Durango’s Authentic Mexican Food 401 FM 2325.
Delicious carne guisada, rice, beans, migas, tacos made to order, more. durangoswimberley.com, 512-847-3473
Hays City Store & Ice House
8989 FM 150, Driftwood. Full bar, 50+ beers. hayscitystoretx.com, 512-722-3905.
Hildee’s on the Square 13900 Ranch Rd 12, Restaurant and bar with Hill Country cuisine and crafted cocktails, wine, beer. hildeeswimberley.com, 512-222-9904
Kelly’s Hill Country Barbecue - Food Trailer
14306 Ranch Road 12. Tuesday - Saturday 11 am ’til sold out. 512-947-1609.
Longleaf Craft Kitchen + Bar
314-A Wimberley Square.
Chef-inspired, handcrafted menu. Craft cocktails, beer and wine. longleafwimberley.com, 512-842-3044
Marco’s Italian Restaurant
303 Wimberley Square.
Salads, pastas, pizza, more. Open Wednesday through Saturday 4 pm to 9 pm. marcoswimberley.com, 512-847-0742.
Mima’s Tacos
701 FM 2325.
Popular family owned & operated Tex-Mex restaurant. Call 512-847-1305.
Nada Mucho Tex Mex Heaven
13710 RR 12
Tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, plates, tequila and more. Open 11 am to 10 pm everyday. nadamuchotexmexheaven.com, 512-648-8904.
Oldie’s Burger’s & More
411 FM 2325.
Burgers, sides and more! Tuesday through Friday 11 am to 3 pm, Saturday 11 am ‘til sold out. oldieswimberley.com, 512-842-3363.
Pizza Hut
101 FM 2325. order.pizzahut.com, 512-847-2844
Rosita’s Food Truck 14306 Ranch Road 12 at the Junction. Monday-Friday 7 am to 2 pm. 512-648-1342.
Savage’s Hill Country Bar & Grill
9595 Ranch Road 12.
Sandwiches, burgers, appetizers and more, plus a full bar. savageshillcountrybar.com, 512-842-3114
Social on the Square
701 FM 2325. Beer, wine, bubbly bar serving charcuterie. socialonthesquare.com, 512-842-3070.
Subway
809 Ranch Road 2325. 512-847-7824
Taqueria San Judas
801 FM 2325.
Authentic Mexican dishes, including quesadillas, tortas, enchiladas, street tacos, birra,huaraches, breakfast tacos and more. 512-722-3357.
The Deli Llama
at Shady Llama Beer & Wine Garden on Ranch Road 12 Pressed sandwiches, salads and more. theshadyllama.com.
The Leaning Pear
111 River Road, # 110. Hill Country inspired cuisine. Indoor/outdoor seating. Beer and wine. LeaningPear.com, 512-847-7327.
The Let Go
13904 Ranch Rd 12 Suite 1. Sandwiches, tacos, burgers, more! theletgobar.com. 512-858-6751.
Un Mundo De Sabor - Food Truck
100 Old Kyle Road
Tacos, flautas, enchiladas. Located at Willow Lake Watering Hole and Mercantile. unmundodesaboratx.com/#2. 512-792-1290.
Whiskey Ridge
8750 W RR 150, Bldg 300, Driftwood Full bar, Meats, fresh seafood. whiskeyridgetx.com, 512-262-0222.
Wimberley Cafe
9595 Ranch Road 12. Breakfast, sandwiches and homestyle entrees. Daily lunch specials. wimberleycafe.com, 512-847-3333
Wimberley Inn + Bar
701 FM 2325. wimberleyinn.com/dining, 512-847-3750
Don’t forget to check the business website and/or call ahead to verify hours and offerings.
Horseshoe Ridge RV RESORT
By BONNIE EISSLER
Horseshoe Ridge RV Resort was designed to preserve the beautiful ancient oaks and rugged rolling Texas Hill Country terrain, with a commitment to sustainable practices that minimize environmental impact. “Wimberley is a special place,” says owner Billy Rhyne, “its natural beauty, welcoming community and rich culture make it an incredible destination for travelers and a perfect setting for our resort.”
The property was a racehorse training ranch for 100 years and the RV resort’s name honors that history. A self-described “techie” who previously worked in that field, Billy was interested in real estate development. He moved from Austin to the Hill Country, put together a business plan and purchased the 31-acre property shortly after it went on the market in late 2020.“We are proud to offer guests a luxury RV experience that complements the charm and hospitality that Wimberley is known for,” Billy explains.
Blending modern conveniences with the splendor of the great outdoors, Horseshoe Ridge provides everything RV enthusiasts require, as well as amenities, personalized services and high-end touches that elevate the traveler’s experience to resort quality. One guest commented that “it’s like staying at a five-star hotel.”
Some of these “luxury hotel” features are clubhouse and lounge areas with comfortable designer furnishings, pool table and shuffleboard, pickle ball courts, outdoor BBQ and picnic areas, fire
See HORSESHOE RIDGE, Page 24
EVERY WEDNESDAY
Chess Club at Wimberley Village Library
All ages and levels welcome! 5:30 pm to 7 pm. 512-847-2188.
FIRST THURSDAY
First Thursday Art Crawl
Galleries stay open late for special activities, themes, food, drink and more. gallerytrail.com/artcrawl.
THURSDAY - SUNDAY
Live Glassblowing at Wimberley Glass Works
Watch a team of artisans create beautiful art glass using age-old techniques before your eyes. 10:30 am to 3:30 pm. WGW.com.
EVERY FRIDAY
Live Bingo at the VFW
Four-game “Early Bird” session starts at 7:15 pm. Main event at 8 pm with 10 games and a midway intermission. Oldham-Cummings VFW Post 6441, 401 Jacobs Well Road.
EVERY FRIDAY
Story Time at the Wimberley Village Library
For kids ages 3-5. Singing, dancing and a craft. 400 FM 2325. Call 512847-2188 for more information.
Guided Relaxation & Meditation for Beginners 10:15 am. Wimberley Village Library. 512-847-2188.
FIRST SATURDAY
Wimberley Market Days (March-December)
Shop the Hill Country’s largest outdoor market, with 490 booths on 20 oak shaded acres. 7 am to 3 pm. Lions Field. 601 FM 2325.
APRIL 11
Georgia Parker in Concert
Wimberley Parks & Rec Free Concert series at Blue Hole Regional Park. 6 pm to 8 pm. wimberleyparksandrec.com.
APRIL 11-12
Wimberley Home Tour
Self-paced tour. 10 am to 4 pm. WimberleyCCC.org for tickets.
APRIL 12
25th Annual Butterfly Festival
Enjoy live butterfly releases, a butterfly flight house, llamas, crafts and face painting, butterfly train, live entertainment, concessions, butterfly store and much more. 9 am to 5 pm. EmilyAnn.org.
APRIL 14
Printmaking Workshop with Jonas Criscoe at ARTSPACE
Learn printing techniques that can be easily replicated at home. Materials and supplies provided. Register at projectartwimberley.org.
APRIL 17
Susanna’s Kitchen presents Jimmy Davis in Concert Fellowship Hall at Wimberley United Methodist Church. Adults $25, kids 18 and under $5 (at the door). 512-847-3109
APRIL 25
Jesse Stratton Band in Concert
Blue Hole Regional Park. 6 pm to 8 pm. jessestrattonmusic.com.
APRIL 25 - MAY 18
The Wimberley Players present “Lend Me A Soprano” wimberleyplayers.org.
APRIL 26
Star Party at Blue Hole Regional Park
Evening of stargazing plus fascinating presentations by the Wimberley Dark Sky Committee. wimberleyparksandrec.com/special-events. See EVENTS, Page 29
RIDGE, from Page 22
pits, and an enormous resort style swimming pool with a spectacular view of the hills. “We have big western basin views of the sunsets,” Billy says. Guests may never want to leave!
For more practical concerns, there’s an onsite laundry, with commercial grade washers and dryers, and a “24/7 grab-and-go trading post” that operates on the honor system, with each guest receiving a unique access code to purchase drinks, ice, snacks, RV supplies, firewood, coffee, souvenirs and ice cream.
RV travelers love their pets. According to a survey conducted by Go RVing, more than 60 percent of RV owners bring a pet with them, usually a dog, which equates to more than 6 million dogs traveling with their owners! Luckily for them, this RV Resort is pet friendly, with walking trails, open spaces, and a large, shaded dog park.
An important distinction that sets this RV park apart, and one that will hopefully inspire other developers, is their commitment to sustainability and to providing their guests with a comfortable and eco-friendly experience. Their efforts include rainwater collection tanks that capture rainwater for landscape irrigation to minimize groundwater impact.
“We capture graywater at our Bath House from washing machines, sinks and showers, and utilize it for subsurface landscape irrigation,” Billy says, “and we capture our HVAC condensate and use this water for landscape irrigation.” Instead of using Bermuda grass, they use “Thunderturf,” which is a mix of Buffalo grass, Blue Grama and Curly Mesquite. A Pool Water Make-up System ensures a clean, well-balanced pool while using less groundwater.
The RV Resort is part of the Dark Sky Community initiative, whose aim is to reduce light pollution and preserve the natural night skies. Dark sky-friendly light fixtures minimize light pollution and glare. Guests benefit as well because they are better able to enjoy the starry skies. Billy says, “We could not be happier with how Horseshoe Ridge Resort has come together, and there’s truly no better place to call home than the Texas Hill Country.”
At Horseshoe RV Resort, eco-conscious travelers (and their pets) can enjoy a taste of resort life while supporting a community that values and protects nature.
Photos courtesy Horseshoe RV Resort.
FYI • Horseshoe RV Resort is at 17901 Ranch Road 12. The property offers 124 spacious RV sites and three cozy cabins making it the perfect retreat for RV travelers, long-term guests and outdoor enthusiasts. High-speed Wi-Fi and valet propane services are available. For more information, call 512-643-7480 or visit horseshoeridgerv.com.
HORSESHOE
A Western town of the 1880s, Pioneer Town is a sight to see! Enjoy an old-fashioned arcade and great shopping (think awesome Wimberley souvenirs and tees) at Blanco River Outfitters during office hours. Take a train ride on the nostalgic Pioneer Express, with rides offered Saturday 10 am to 5 pm, Sunday 10 am-1 pm. The arcade is open Sunday-Thursday 8 am to 5 pm and Friday & Saturday frmom 8 am to 8 pm. (Call or check website to confirm.) All of this in addition to comfortable cabins and lodges for larger groups and meetings, right on the Blanco River. Find out more at 7aranch.co.
Resort-Style Pool, Pickleball Courts, Golf Cart Rentals, Valet Propane Services, Pet Friendly, High-Speed WiFi, Laundry Facilities, Clubhouse & Lounge Area, Outdoor BBQ & Picnic Areas
Ranch Road 12, Wimberley, TX
Wimberley Gardens
By BONNIE EISSLER
Alot has happened in the seven years since Matt and Jennie Horvath transformed a long-time Texas barbecue eatery into a spacious and colorful garden center full of light and plants and garden accessories.
Winter storms, must notably the great Texas Freeze of 2021 and the Texas Ice Storm of 2023 left millions of trees uprooted, split apart or otherwise damaged; severe drought and heat waves stressed plants and people; and a pandemic beginning in 2020 seems almost surreal in retrospect.
Closer to home, happier times are on the horizon for the Horvath family, with Jennie embarking on an exciting new venture with a lifestyle home boutique (Tarry) on Wimberley Square, and their oldest daughter, who was just 18 when Wimberley Gardens opened in 2018, is getting married in May.
Gardening sustains us in good and difficult times, connects us with nature and fills our lives with beauty. At Wimberley Gardens, Matt is still in his element doing what he loves and what he does best, ensuring customers have top quality plants and gardening supplies.
“Every season we do something new [at the garden store],” Matt says, “we recently took out all the sidewalks and put in white rock which really opens up the outside area and makes it look larger.”
See WIMBERLEY GARDENS, Page 28
Jennie and Matt Horvath. Photo courtesy Wimberley Gardens.
Climb Mount Baldy
Experience the iconic Wimberley landmark, and get some exercise to boot! Once at the top of the 218 rock steps, you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views of the Wimberley Valley. Mount Baldy has been the site of marriage proposals, scout camping trips, and family traditions, and it’s also fitness lovers. Most just climb it for the magnificent view. To visit Old Baldy, head north on FM 2325 from the square. Go 1.7 miles and turn right on Woodcreek Drive, then take the first right onto El Camino Real. Travel 0.2 mi to the dead end, then turn right on La Toya Trail. After about a half mile, you will see the parking area and the Old Baldy steps.
From Valentine’s Day to Mother’s Day is a very busy time with many orders and deliveries every week. Customers are planting spring vegetables and herbs, sprucing up window boxes and hanging baskets. “Our team is fantastic,” Matt says, stressing the importance of good customer service, “really good people who are essential to our success.”
Most of the growers Wimberley Gardens’ works with are nearby in Austin, San Antonio and Marble Falls. Matt sought out the best sources in the area for providing plants of exceptional quality. “I always like to use native plants,” he says, “and native organic vegetables, herbs, organic soils, organic fertilizer and pesticides.”
Because native plants, such as Texas Sage, Texas Sotol and Red Yucca, are already adapted to a specific climate and region, they have better resistance to local weather, require less maintenance and thrive in our hot dry climate.
The staff at Wimberley Gardens is knowledgeable about the kinds of plants that are best for the challenges of gardening in the hardscrabble landscape of the Texas Hill Country.“Our mission is to set people up to succeed, not to be overwhelmed because the project is too daunting,” Matt advises. “It might be better to start small with one area and understand that particular space.”
The Texas Hill Country terrain is a mixture of gardening challenges and rewards. But the gazillion rocks, scorching summer heat, droughts and floods, and a large roaming population of deer and other wildlife are not insurmountable obstacles to having a beautiful garden. Photos by Bonnie Eissler.
FYI • Wimberley Gardens is located at 419 FM 2325. Hours are Sunday 11 am to 4 pm, and Tuesday to Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm. For more information, call 512-842-1220 or visit wimberleygardens.com.
WIMBERLEY
From PAGE 23
APRIL 26-27
Wimberley Arts Fest
Art, close to 100 booths, food trucks, more at The Waters Point. Music includes Andrew Hardin, Gerry Burns more! Free. Saturday 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday 11 am to 4 pm. Details at wimberleyartsfest.org.
MAY 2
Birdies for Business Golf Classic
Wimberley Chamber of Commerce fundraiser at Kissing Tree Golf Club in San Marcos. 512-847-2201.
MAY 3
Community Garage Sale
Sign up to sell, or come shop. 8 am to 3 pm at Wimberley Community Center. wimberleyparksandrec.com/community-garage-sale.
MAY 10
Migratory Bird Day
Learn from expert speakers about bird conservation, bird-friendly habitats, and the incredible journeys of our feathered friends. Wimberley Community Center. 512-847-2201.
MAY 10
2nd Annual Crawfish Fest at Cypress Falls Swimming Hole
Live music, silent auction, vendors, washer tournament. Free admission. 12 pm to 7 pm. 50 Marina Circle.
MAY 15
Susanna’s Kitchen presents Lost Austin Band in Concert Fellowship Hall at Wimberley United Methodist Church. 512-847-3109.
MAY 17
projectMENTOR Opening Reception at ARTSPACE
Culmination of a semester-long endeavor with an exhibition displaying final works of our projectMENTOR student and artist pairs. Reception 10 am - 12 pm, on display through May 25. projectartwimberley.org.
MAY 24
Wimberley Strong Memorial Concert
Special event marking 10th anniversary of Memorial Day Flood. Legendary Gary P. Nunn plus Jesse Stratton Band. Blue Hole Regional Park. wimberleyparksandrec.com/wimberleystrong.
MAY 26
Memorial Day Ceremony
EmilyAnn Theatre & Gardens at the beautiful Veterans Memorial Plaza. EmilyAnn.org, 512-847-6969 (call or text).
MAY 28-29
Wimberley Memorial Day Rodeo
Wimberley VFW Rodeo Arena. vfw6441.com/events
JUNE 7-8
Wimberley Metaphysical & Holistic Fair
Free admission. Open 11 am to 5 pm. Wimberley Community Center.
JUNE 19
Susanna’s Kitchen presents HalleyAnna Finlay in Concert Fellowship Hall at Wimberley United Methodist Church. 512-847-3109.
JULY 4
Wimberley Fourth of July Hometown Parade
Parade starts at 10 am at Lions Field, through Downtown and ends at City Hall. 512-847-2201, wimberley.org.
JULY 11 - AUGUST 3
The Wimberley Players present “Sweeney Todd” Learn more at wimberleyplayers.org.
JULY 17
Susanna’s Kitchen presents Shake Russell in Concert Fellowship Hall at Wimberley United Methodist Church. 512-847-3109.
JULY 27-28 & AUGUST 3-4
Shakespeare on the River wimberleyparksandrec.com/special-events/shakespeare.
AUGUST 10
Back to School Bash
Enjoy games, music, swimming at Blue Hole, and community vibes. = wimberleyparksandrec.com/special-events.
AUGUST 21
Susanna’s Kitchen presents Hill Country Honeys Fellowship Hall at Wimberley United Methodist Church. 512-847-3109.
SEPTEMBER 12 - OCTOBER 5
The Wimberley Players present “King O’ the Moon”
As the historic Apollo 11 mission prepares to touch down on the moon, the Pazinski family finds themselves orbiting around their late father’s memory. wimberleyplayers.org.
SEPTEMBER 14
Suicide Awareness Walk
Hosted by WISD Wellness Center, The Greater Mercy Foundation and Wimberley Parks & Rec. 9 am to 11 am. wimberleyparksandrec.com.
SEPTEMBER 18
Susanna’s Kitchen presents Adam & Chris Carroll
An intimate smoke- and alcohol-free musical experience at Wimberley United Methodist Church. 512-847-3109.
SEPTEMBER 20
Gourdgeous Glass Pumpkin Festival
Hundreds of stunning glass pumpkins, live glassblowing demos, scavenger hunts, live music! 10 am to 2:30 pm at Wimberley Glass Works. WGW.com.
NOVEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 7
The Wimberley Players present “The Man Who Came To Dinner” A delightful holiday classic. wimberleyplayers.org.
Our neighbors in Dripping Springs
Don’s Sunset Page
By BONNIE EISSLER
Sunsets have long been favorite subjects for artists and photographers. No two are alike. The season of the year, cloud formations and atmospheric conditions combine to create limitless variations as the clouds catch and scatter the sun’s rays, spinning glorious shades of soft pink, gold and lavender or fiery red, yellow and orange.
Don Hamilton has loved sunsets since he was a kid. “I’ve always enjoyed nature photography,” he says, but the “golden hour” images of the setting sun are his specialty and the highlight of Don’s popular “Sunset Page” on Facebook, garnering more than 65,000 views in March of this year.
People from all over the world, and from as far away as Ethiopia, the Philippines and Democratic Republic of the Congo, check in regularly to admire his photos of Texas Hill Country sunsets.
Having devoted nearly 10 years to his hobby, Don recalls, “I began on October 20, 2015, and at the time I was living in an area with a large expansive western view; many days getting the picture was as simple as walking out to the pasture fence.”
He also took sunset pictures, using his cell phone camera, whenever he was on vacation or traveling from his home in Pittsburg, Texas, to Austin. (He moved to Wimberley three years ago to be closer to his family.) “I’ve taken more than 3,400 daily sunset pictures, only rarely not posting one, and for eight years I didn’t miss a single day,” Don explains.
The photos often feature iconic local landmarks and gathering places: for example, watching the sun go down from the parking lot at Hays City Store in Driftwood, from the summit of Old Baldy, at Jacob’s Well Natural Area, or shining into the trees at Willow Lake Watering Hole. Don’s Sunset Page on Facebook is a photographic journey through Wimberley, capturing various aspects of the greater Hill country region and its character.
Sunsets near water or hills are often more dramatic, like the one in Don’s January 2021 photo of Canyon Lake taken from the top of Canyon Dam that captures the sun, shimmering and pale, encircled with rings of yellow and orange against a purple-streaked indigo sky.
In a magical moment of serendipity, Don met his wife thanks to his sunset photography. He sometimes posted photos on the Wimberley Community Forum page on Facebook. She was a member of the forum, saw the pictures, liked them and decided to check out his personal Facebook page. Noticing they had a similar history and shared some common interests, she sent a message asking him out to lunch. After he recovered from the surprise of the initial contact, he told her he’d be at The Shady Llama to take a sunset picture and they could meet there. Don laughs, “we hit it off right away and I proposed a year later to the day we met, and we’ve been married since November 2023.”
Spectacular sunsets can stop us in our tracks, evoke a sense of tranquility and tap into our human instinct to connect with nature and one another. Those iconic picture postcard scenes of famously fabulous sunsets at the Grand Canyon or Waikiki are impressive, but it’s no secret that gorgeous sunsets happen right here in Texas, with thousands (and still counting) already captured and posted for your pleasure on Don’s Sunset Page. Photos by Don Hamilton.
FYI • Follow Don’s Sunset Page on Facebook.
Jacobs Well Natural Area sunset.
At Ranch Road 12.
From Woodcreek North.
Real estate PRofessionals
PARTNERS IN REAL ESTATE GROUP
KELLER WILLIAMS REALTY
Partners In Real Estate Group is the “premier real estate experts” in Wimberley, Dripping Springs, Blanco, and the Texas Hill Country. As highly trained, full time, experienced Real Estate Agents with Keller Williams Realty, Partners In Real Estate Group are always your best resource for the Texas Hill Country Real Estate information and community knowledge. We work with both buyers and sellers sharing our extensive knowledge in the latest real estate strategies. Partners In Real Estate Group has a team of agents with more than 50 years’ experience combined. We are a knowledgeable experienced team that specializes in residential homes, water properties, lots and ranch properties. Stop by our office in Wimberley today.
TRACI PHILLIPS
Assoc. Broker/ Realtor, CRS, ABR, ALC
& RANCH REAL ESTATETHE HILL COUNTRY GROUP
We are located in the middle of one of the most desirable areas to live, according to US News and World Report and MSN. We would love to help you find your piece of the Hill Countrywhether you are looking for a home in town or a large ranch and everything in between.. With 40-plus years of experience, we are ready to use our experience and knowledge for you. We serve ALL of the Texas Hill Country which is rare!
Traci has been voted “Best of Wimberley — Best Real Estate Agent” for the past four years, nominated as “Best of Hays” and recognized as an outstanding Woman in Leadership for Hays County in 2020 and Visionary in 2021. The connections she has gained over the years are a benefit not many can offer. We love what we do - and our many clients can attest - our clients are the focus and we would love to have you be part of those satisfied clients!
LOCAL CHURCHES
CHAPEL IN THE HILLS
14601 Ranch Rd 12 512-847-9762 wimberleychapelinthehills.com
HILL COUNTRY COWBOY CHURCH
120 Green Acres Drive 512-847-9526 hillcountrycowboychurch.com
COWBOYS FOR JESUS
8400 FM 32 Fischer, TX 210-389-6235 cowboysforjesus.com
CYPRESS CREEK CHURCH
211 Stillwater 512-847-1222 cypresscreekchurch.com
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH
15951 Winters Mill Pkwy. 512-847-9035 fbcwimberley.com
FREEDOM VALLEY FELLOWSHIP
10691 Ranch Road 12 512-680-9765 freedomvalleyfellowship.org
JEHOVAH’S WITNESS
443 Jacobs Well Road 512-847-8129 • jw.org
LUTHERAN CHURCH OF THE RESURRECTION
Spoke Hill at RR 12 512-847-3386 welcometonewlife.org
ST MARY CATHOLIC CHURCH 14711 Ranch Rd 12 512-847-9181 smwimberley.org
ST STEPHEN’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH
6000 Ranch Road 3237 512-847-9956 ststeve.org
UNITY CHURCH OF WIMBERLEY 455 White Wings Road 512-847-6587 unityofwimberley.com
WIMBERLEY CHURCH OF CHRIST 15500 Ranch Rd. 12 512-847-9357 wimberleychurchofchrist.org
WIMBERLEY CHRISTIAN CHURCH 13706 Ranch Rd 12 512-847-3853 wimberleychristianchurch.com
WIMBERLEY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 956 Ranch Rd 2325 512-847-5292 wimpres.org
WIMBERLEY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH CR 1492 & RR 12 512-847-3109 wimberleyumc.org
Call ahead for info about services, online services, etc.
REV. KEVIN
LJ SCHUBERT
ST. STEPHENS
Whoever you are, and wherever you find yourself on the journey of faith, you are welcome at St. Stephen’s! We have many wonderful offerings of fellowship, worship, lifelong learning, and outreach that are integral to the community. “We are truly a welcoming community that is committed to being in relationship with God and one another. It is my great pleasure and honor to welcome you.”
- The Rev. Kevin LJ Schubert, Rector of St. Stephen’s On Sundays we offer two worship services: one at 8 AM in the Chapel and another at 10:30 AM in the Sanctuary. Children’s Sunday School is offered during the 10:30 AM service, September through May. The Nursery, for ages infant through 4 years, is available Sundays during Sunday worship and during adult Lifelong Learning classes. We have also an active program for Teens that meets weekly.
*Adults have opportunities for lifelong learning through seasonal classes, as well as Bible study groups, and social and service activities throughout the week. We also offer a mid-week Holy Eucharist service on the first Wednesday of each month at 10:30 am in the Chapel, which includes healing prayers for those in need.
For all the details on worship, classes, and fellowship gatherings, visit the church website at www.ststeve.org.
REV. JIM DENHAM
Chapel in the Hills is a Christian, Interdenominational Church that has been serving the Lord here in Wimberley since 1949. If you are curious about our worship style, music, and the way we worship, please go on-line to our Facebook page and watch one of our services. This will tell you much about our Church and Sunday worship, but when you visit, you will discover our personal friendship and fellowship for yourself.
Reverend Jim Denham has served as Pastor for this Chapel twice: from 1999 to 2008, then returning in 2014 to again serve as Pastor. He has also served as a Hospice Chaplain, Hospital Chaplain, and pastor in several other congregations here in Texas.
Our church’s tag line for decades has been “There are no strangers here, only friends you haven’t met.” Come for a visit on Sundays at 9 am with Guitar music, or at 11 am with a Choir and English handbells. Hope to see you on Sunday.
Sunday Services: 9 am Church Service, 10 am Sunday School, 11 am Church Service. WimberleyChapelInTheHills.com (online service).
JOIN US EACH
TASTING ROOM HOURS
THURS-SAT 11:30 AM - 8:00 PM SUNDAY 10:30 AM - 5:30 PM
BRUNCH SAT/SUN UNTIL 3:00 PM 5330 BELL SPRINGS ROAD
HAPPY HOUR THU/FRI 3:00 - 7:00 PM
