Texas Hill Country Culture December 2018

LIVING

THE

BEAUTIFUL

LIFE

DECEMBER 2018

INSIDE

FACES OF CHRISTMAS THE PARTAINS’ ’56 CHEVY 210 STATION WAGON 9 cities offer holiday activities outdoors

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December 2018 - Volume 3 - Issue 12

Neice Bell Publisher

Travis Webb Managing Editor

Jeanette Eastwood Nash Assistant Managing Editor

Chelsea M.K. Stack Special Sections Editor

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Writers Robin Amerine Jenna Carpenter Nancy Foster Judith Pannebaker

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Photographers C. Darus Tom Holden Alexandria Randolph Leah Thomason

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Hill Country CULTURE | DECEMBER 2018

Copyright: Hill Country Culture is published by The Kerrville Daily Times under Southern Newspapers Inc. No portion may be reproduced in whole or in part by any means, including electronic retrieval systems, without written permission of the publisher. Editorial content does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher of this magazine. Editorial and advertising does not constitute advice but is considered informative.

EDITOR’S LETTER

‘The most wonderful time of the year’ Dear readers, It’s almost that “most wonderful time of the year” again: the Christmas season.

A time for remembering our loved ones and to be remembered by them in return.

A time for family gatherings, gift shopping, decorating, baking and the million and one little tasks that we go through to help make the holidays a special time of year.

Where does the time go?

It seems just yesterday I was brand new to Kerrville, with an apartment full of boxes and doing my best to get up to speed on my new role as the managing editor at The Kerrville Daily Times.

Now here I am, nearly half a year later and putting the finishing touches on the magazine you now hold in your hands.

A good deal of it was done by the former magazine editor, Autumn Bernhard. I’d like take this opportunity to thank her for the many hours she put into making Texas Hill Country Culture the fine publication it is today. I wish her all the best in her future endeavors.

I’d also like to thank KDT Special Sections Editor Chelsea M.K. Stack for her invaluable assistance in helping me wrap up this edition.

Much like the perfect Christmas get-together or

holiday meal, there’s many moving parts that go into putting a publication like this together.

And, like the holiday season, it’s important to make sure we don’t let all those seemingly endless little tasks distract us from the real value and meaning behind it.

Just as mom’s diligence in shopping for gifts or baking in the kitchen — or Santa’s long night assembling toys in the living room — would be more than repaid by the smiles and laughter of well-fed, joyous family members, so too are we at ease knowing our work has helped bring to life the stories of some remarkable Hill Country residents.

Inside this edition, you’ll find stories that illustrate the generous nature of the Christmas season. Stories of giving and charity, and of the many ways that simple things like a family tradition or favorite dish can bring people together.

From the efforts of local law enforcement, charitable groups and volunteers to ensure every child has a great holiday, to a roundup of fun, family-friendly holiday events or our Holiday Gift Guide, we’ve got it inside — and so much more.

We hope you enjoy reading them as much as we enjoyed telling them. But most of all, we hope each of you has a very Merry Christmas.

Former Texas Hill Country Culture Magazine Editor Autumn Bernhard sits with James Partain on the back of his 1956 Chevrolet, which he was kind enough to let us use for our photo session with good old St. Nick.

Travis Webb

Special thanks

Managing Editor travis.webb@dailytimes.com

Texas Hill Country Culture would like to thank the Hill Country Arts Foundation for allowing us to use one of their Santa costumes.

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Contents Features 13

FACES OF CHRISTMAS Blue Santa, Spirits of Christmas Presents, bell ringers, holiday decorating and seniors

Your Home in the Hill Country 25 FEATURE

Heirloom nutcracker collection 29

25

HOME SHOWCASE Westland Subdivision home

7 13 ON THE COVER Dave Hawkins as Santa rides in the Partains’ ‘56 Chevrolet 210 station wagon near Kerrville’s Arcadia Loop area.

Photo by Tom Holden

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Hill Country CULTURE | DECEMBER 2018

Departments 7

THE ARTS 38 HILL COUNTRY MADE Rotarian hosts cooking Mooney baking party 40 GOOD TASTE 10 WHEELS

Christmas party side

The Partains’ ‘56 Chevy dishes

210 station wagon 42 UNCORKED 32 GET TO KNOW

Sister Creek Vineyards

Jeff Talarico 44 EVENTS 34 THE GREAT OUTDOORS December calendar

9 cities offer holiday 48 OUT & ABOUT

activities outdoors

Event roundup 36 GIFT GUIDE

Christmas gifts

Blue Santa photo by Alexandria Randolph. Nutcracker photos by Tom Holden. Cookie dough photo Robin Amerine. Santa is The Kerrville Daily Times file photo.

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Rotarian shares cookie baking party tradition to inaugurate the holidays Story and photos by Robin Amerine

T

he Christmas season is filled with sights, sounds and scents. From holiday lights and tinseled trees to joyful carols that highlight the reason for the season, and let’s not forget the intoxicating aroma of cookies waiting to be baked and, more importantly, eaten, senses are ignited.

For Kristy Vandenberg, the latter — baking Christmas cookies — is a long-standing tradition that helps to inaugurate her favorite holiday. The combined scents of

butter, brown sugar, vanilla and spices are an integral part of both her preparation for Advent and the Christmas tradition of cheerful giving. Kristy doesn’t keep her cookies, but instead they’re gifts of love and appreciation for friends, neighbors, fellow Rotary Club members and the volunteers she’s worked with during her extensive American Red Cross career. Since Kristy enjoys the sense of community that comes with food shared among friends,

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she makes a party of her cookie baking.

gooey goodness.

The best traditions are those that last

Gifts of cookies and the gift of life

Kristy has hosted cookie-baking parties since 1978, when she first began working for the Red Cross. She’s continued the tradition everywhere her career has taken her — from Buffalo, New York, and Ann Arbor, Michigan, to Houston and, in 2007, Kerrville. The party is generally on a Saturday night, but folks begin arriving as early as Thursday — some coming from Houston and the DallasFort Worth metroplex. Kristy usually bakes lasagna, while her guests bring appetizers, side dishes or their favorite beverages — but no desserts, for obvious reasons. After supper, the serious business of measuring and mixing begins, with nearly 30 different kinds of cookies baked and cooled by the party’s end. Kristy provides clam shells so that her guests can go home with some of the fruits of their labor. It’s all deeply satisfying to Kristy.

“There’s something about baking, and being with people you care about,” she said. “Both feed the soul.”

Kristy has a basic recipe she uses for many of her cookies, varying the variety of chips to create different flavors. I watched her stir up a batch containing my own favorite flavors — peanut butter and semi-sweet chocolate — and her hands seemed to measure and mix all on their own. The aroma of fresh baked cookies soon filled her home, and it was difficult to wait for the first tray to cool so I could sample one. But when I did, it was fresh-baked

From Kristy’s kitchen, I also could see tables filled with the small Christmas trees she decorates and offers for sponsorship in support of the small nonprofit she came out of retirement to oversee, The Ultimate Gift of Life Foundation. This Christmastime endeavor is the foundation’s only fundraiser, and its proceeds help Kristy in her efforts to raise awareness about organ donation.

“The money raised from Christmas tree sponsorships and sales is matched one to one, thanks to the generosity of the organization’s founders,” Kristy said.

A gift of $250 provides sponsors with table trees decorated in the colors of their choosing. During our visit, I saw a tree of teal and green intended for Peterson Regional Medical Center. There was an unfinished Hanukkah tree all in white, and orders for Texas A&M University and Tivy High School themed trees were pending. There are even orange and white decorations available for the Longhorns out there. Kristy’s Christmas cookies often accompany her when she travels for speaking engagements, and a plate full usually can be found next to The Ultimate Gift of Life Foundation materials on table displays.

“A good cookie is a great ice-breaker,” said Kristy with a smile. “So many people have stories about organ donation and how it’s touched their lives, and I always want to hear them — especially at Christmastime.”

Kristy Vandenberg warms up for her annual cookie-baking party by baking a small batch of oatmeal, brown sugar and chocolate cookies.

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Photo by Robin Amerine

THE ARTS

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Drive-in ready Partains flashback to the ’50s with their restored station wagon

C

hristmas in the Hill Country is a time for family and friends to get together to celebrate the holiday. But gearheads like to get together to share their interests, too. Meeting James Partain and his wife, Jacqui, was a great occasion. Our common interest was that James restored his fabulous 1956 Chevrolet 210 four-door station wagon, while we restored a ’56 Chevy Bel Air four-door sport sedan.

The Partains reside in Kerrville’s beautiful Arcadia Loop area, where they have owned their classic wagon for 18 years. They are its second owners and some research divulged that the car was originally sold in California.

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Hill Country CULTURE | DECEMBER 2018

James has all of the original paperwork to prove it.

The interior is gorgeous — all original design and color — provided by a replacement kit he had installed. Parts for 1955-’57 Chevys are easily found due to their popularity.

The only modification from the original interior was the addition of seat belts, an absolute necessity.

Under the hood resides the popular 350ci engine, replacing the original 265ci, and the old powerglide transmission was upgraded to a 700R4.

Another really important change was substituting those front drum brakes with discs. Coupling that with modern

Photos by Tom Holden

Story by John and Polly Holmes

WHEELS

John and Polly Holmes John and Polly Holmes are longtime gearheads. They have written for automotive publications for more than 40 years. Now they’re going to bring some interesting stories about things with wheels in the Hill Country. Their perspective comes from years of racing, restoring classics and participating in car club activities.

James Partain enjoys taking his wife to a drive-in and placing their vintage root-beer mugs on the driver’s side window tray of their 1956 Chevrolet 210 four-door station wagon.

radial tires instead of the old bias-ply wide white-walls makes for a much safer drive on today’s highways. He swapped out the original rims for some chrome after-markets, as many did even back in the ’50s, and installed dual exhausts.

The thing that knocked our socks off was the paint job — original colors applied after taking it down to the bare metal.

James said the ’56 is a keeper. He likes taking his wife to a drive-in and putting out the tray on the driver’s side window, complete with vintage root-beer mugs.

They get some great reactions from other folks, especially senior citizens who remember those days.

Have a chuckle Have you noticed that no two people are alike, and both are really glad about it.

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FREDERICKSBURG, TEXAS 10/6/17 11:38 AM

Faces of Christmas The true spirit of Christmas burns brightly because special people among us make it their business to see that it does.

Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus deliver toys throughout Bandera County in an ambulance for the Spirits of Christmas Presents project. Courtesy photo

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Faces of Christmas

From delivering presents to ringing bells, locals show their holiday spirit

T

Story by Judith Pannebaker

he true spirit of Christmas burns brightly because special people among us make it their business to see that it does. And, in this December issue of Texas Hill Country Culture, we honor and thank them.

Holiday decorating done easy

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Hill Country CULTURE | DECEMBER 2018

Photos courtesy of Christmas Decor of The Hill Country

“This is truly a wonderful job,” said Tammy Sheffield, owner of Christmas Decor of The Hill Country, a business that lifts the stress of holiday decorating from the increasingly harassed shoulders of individuals and business owners.

Once a new client contacts Tammy, or one of her associates, an interview determines the extent and type of decorations desired.

“Then, we evaluate and map the property, paying particular attention to the type of roofing involved,” Tammy said.

The final display is a combination of five key elements, she said.

Ridge and facia roof lighting delineates the buildings and adds depth to the presentation. Windows outlined

with lights offer a beautiful ambient glow when viewed from the interior of a home or business. Ground lighting accents flowerbeds and pathways, as well as serves as an inviting entry for holiday guests or customers. Lighting on trees and shrubs turns properties into twinkling fairylands, while daytime decor — including garlands, wreaths and over-sized bows, among other festive items — keeps the property partyready and festive from dawn to dusk.

“After the evaluation, we give our clients itemized proposals that include installation of the lighting and other decor and a timer that allows them to choose when the lights go on and off,” Tammy said. “We also service the installation during the Christmas season and remove it in January. After that, we map the client’s home or business and carefully store the decorations to use the following year, if desired.”

Christmas Decor began more than 30 years ago in Lubbock.

“Since then, the franchise has expanded across the United States and Canada,” she said with the first franchises opening

in 1996 in Texas, Tennessee, Oklahoma and Illinois. “We install Christmas lighting in Kerrville, Kerr and Kendall counties, Fredericksburg and in San Antonio from Loop 1604 to Texas 281,” Tammy said.

While repeat clients account for the majority of her business, each season about 20 percent of clients are new, according to Tammy.

For Tammy, “the season” begins in July or August, when the Irvingbased company holds its nationwide conference.

“We send proposals out to clients in September and the first installations begin

in October,” she said. “All of the decorations come down by the third and fourth weeks in January.”

At approximately 65 percent, private residents make up the bulk of her business with repeat clients accounting for 80 percent of Christmas Decor’s business.

“I love this job,” Tammy said. “Christmas is such a wonderful time of the year. Everyone is so happy and excited, and it’s wonderful to be a part of making every Christmas the best and most beautiful ever.”

Contact the Christmas Decor by calling 830-896-2976.

Salvation Army’s bells ring for 127 years The appearance of Salvation Army bell ringers and their red kettles signify the holiday season is finally here. Perhaps, no other sound says “Christmas” more than the jingle, jangle of a vigorously rung Salvation Army handbell.

The iconic handbells and red kettles have announced the season of giving for 127 years. From Thanksgiving to Christmas Eve, buckets and bell ringers are stationed

Left: Vintage-style lamp posts around the city of Kerrville take on a distinctly holiday demeanour. Top: A few components of holiday decorating include a roof outline, ambient lighting for outdoor trees and shrubs, pathway accents and wreaths.

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Every child needs a present at Christmas By working together, the staff and volunteers of Bandera County Helping Hand and Spirits of Christmas Presents ensure that every underprivileged child in Bandera County has a wonderful Christmas, filled with presents and traditional holiday fare — a promise made and kept for nearly 40 years.

To participate in Spirits of Christmas Presents, families complete an application at Helping Hand, 1116 12th 16

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Hill Country CULTURE | DECEMBER 2018

Photo by Tom Holden

outside thousands of stores across the nation, no matter what the size of the city or town.

This year, in Kerr County, you’ll encounter 22 volunteer bell ringers from Bandera, Kendall and Kerr counties, who supplement members of local service clubs. Locations include Gibson’s Discount Center; Big Lots; Mamacita’s; JCPenney; Belk; Hometown Crafts and Gifts; Walgreens pharmacies in Kerrville, Fredericksburg and Boerne; and Walmart in Kerrville, Fredericksburg, Boerne and Helotes.

One dedicated bell ringer is Bill Dahle, who volunteers four hours a day throughout the holiday season. While his assigned location can change, he has a soft spot for wielding his bell in front of JCPenney in River Hills Mall.

“That was my first assigned spot, and it’s nostalgic to me,” Bill said.

Although he has volunteered at the Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center for several years, Bill has been ringing his bell for just three years.

“I heard about the program in church and thought I’d give it a shot. But the program was harder to get into than I realized. Once I was accepted, I decided to stay,” Bill said.

His enthusiasm led to Bill’s selection as the Kroc Center’s Volunteer of the Year after he single-handedly raised $6,000 one holiday season.

Bills and coins deposited in the red kettles fund Salvation Army programs in Kerrville, including assistance with food, clothing, rent, utilities, prescriptions and emergency dental; holiday food and the Angel Tree Program; transient services at the Red Shield Lodge, soup kitchen and Reconnect Recovery Program; first responder disaster relief; and after-school and camp programming for youth through the Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club.

In past years, kettles have raised more than $144 million across the nation.

Each Salvation Army “kettle and bell” location is organized and managed by a local unit of the Salvation Army. In Kerrville, the local unit is attached to the Kroc Center, 201 Holdsworth Drive. Funds raised in a specific community stay in that community to support local programs for people in need, according to Capt. David Swyers.

“This year, we also assisted with disaster relief in North Carolina, Sonora, Junction and Florida,” Capt. Swyers said.

“While we have a designated area to work in, the reality is we go anywhere we’re needed.”

Currently, bell ringers average donations of about $30 an hour. In just two hours of ringing, they raise enough funds to provide a week’s worth of groceries for a family of four.

Bell ringers close up shop after a half-day on Christmas Eve. After that, the bells and red kettles are stored until the next holiday season.

And Bill will be ready. Explaining his success at persuading people to drop their hard-earned pennies and dollars into his pot, he said, “My mother told me, ‘It’s not just you; the Lord puts it in people’s hearts to give.’”

To volunteer, call 830-257-3620.

Above: Volunteer Bill Dahle and Salvation Army Capt.

David Swyers get ready to ring bells and fill kettles for the Christmas season. Below: Suitably costumed Santas and jolly old elves deliver gifts to children in Bandera County through the Spirits of Christmas Presents program.

Photo by C. Darus

FACES OF CHRISTMAS St., in Bandera with children in the family, including age, clothing sizes and personal interests. To establish eligibility, families also are required to submit proof of income and Bandera County residency.

New, unwrapped toys are collected at Helping Hand; Uber CrossFit, 3540 Texas 16; and at Bandera Bike, 4324 Farm to Market Road 1077, all in Bandera.

On Dec. 13, the collected toys and gifts are taken to the fellowship hall of Bandera United Methodist Church, 1103 Cedar St. That day, volunteers imbued with the seasonal spirit will assist with holiday shopping by selecting four appropriate gifts for children on Santa’s list and place the presents in a special “Santa Bag.” The next day, an army of elves and angels, armed with scissors, will descend on the fellowship hall at 8 a.m. to wrap the Christmas presents.

“Everything remains anonymous,” said Kathy Gardner, who heads up Spirits of Christmas Presents. “Names are never used.”

“On Dec. 15, about 20 Santas will personally deliver presents,” Kathy said. “Usually a specially decorated firetruck, ambulance and patrol car makes an appearance, too. It’s wonderful to see.”

As expected, the Santas always include firefighters, police officers, deputies and anyone else in the Bandera community who delights in bringing Christmas joy to others.

Additionally, each family will receive a voucher to be redeemed at the Helping Hand food

pantry on Dec. 17, and a box filled with holiday fare that may include bags of mashed potatoes and dressing, canned yams and green beans, cornbread mix, cranberries, chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, fruit, pie filling and desserts.

At that time, families also will be given a $20 voucher to exchange for a meat item at Lowe’s Market, 907 Main St., in Bandera.

“They can use the voucher for a turkey, ham or even steaks. We don’t care. But the voucher must be used for meat,” Kathy said.

Last year, Santa and his elves delivered gifts to 256 children, as well as a holiday meal and grocery vouchers to 77 local families.

Spirits of Christmas Presents started with a phone call to Kathy, who, at the time, served as a Girl Scout Brownies troop leader. She was asked if the troop could help collect toys for local families unable to give their children a proper Christmas. The Brownies responded enthusiastically and delivered the collected toys, gifts and cookies by Dec. 25.

The following year, Kathy formally joined Spirits of Christmas Presents as vice president and took over responsibility for the entire project.

Through the years, the generous response of individuals, businesses and nonprofits in the Bandera community have enabled the wonderful tradition of holiday giving to continue.

“We invite everyone to join us at the United Methodist Church on Saturday, Dec. 15, to wish our Santas, elves and helpers a very Merry Christmas as they deliver presents to kids across Bandera County,” Kathy said.

To participate in Spirits of Christmas Presents by donating a gift to a child in need, call 830-796-8300.

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Blue Santa brighten holidays for Ingram kids Take-charge Officer Laura Morris heads up Ingram’s third annual Blue Santa Program, which was initiated shortly after she joined the department.

“We had Blue Santa in other departments, and I knew there was a need here, as well,” she said.

The program promotes positive exchanges between police officers and the community.

“We see families in need all day, every day. It’s something that’s always out there but, at Christmas, it’s particularly troubling,” Morris said.

The Blue Santa program at Ingram PD is publicized well in advance of the holiday season, giving the community sufficient time to identify children who need assistance during the holidays, she said.

To be eligible for the program, families must live in the city of Ingram with children enrolled in Ingram Independent School District or home-schooled.

Everyone, she said, responds generously to the clarion call from those who protect and serve the small, close-knit community.

Participation in the program begins when families fill out an application available at the police department, 226 Texas 39. Individuals also can nominate a family or child for the program. Nominations for children to receive presents from Blue Santa can be made until Dec. 3.

Morris then transfers pertinent information about each child — including age, clothes and shoe size, gender and a gift wish list — to a cut-out ornament, which decorates an Angel Tree located in the lobby of the police department.

From Dec. 4-19, community members can select an ornament dedicated to a specific child. Presents should be returned to the IPD with the original paper ornament attached to identify the recipient.

“If it’s possible, we ask that the gifts be wrapped to help Santa during this busy season,” Morris said.

To make it easier this busy holiday season, individuals also can drop off a new toy or make a monetary donation at the police department, which will be used to augment the program.

From 3 to 6 p.m. Dec. 21, Blue Santa will be available in the department’s lobby to hand out gifts to the children.

“Last year, 27 children received presents from Blue Santa,” Morris said.“The open

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Hill Country CULTURE | DECEMBER 2018

house will also include holiday treats, music and time to visit with police officers.”

Lauding the increasingly generous response to Blue Santa, she said, “We could not continue this special program without the help of the community, whom we thank for sharing their holiday joy with less fortunate children in the city.”

To participate in next year’s Blue Santa program, call 830-367-2636.

Ensuring seniors have a Merry Christmas Seniors sometimes face difficulties during the holiday season — loved ones and friends become ill or pass away, while energy and mobility levels decrease. As a result, the unrelenting focus on family, friends and togetherness during this time of year can actually work against the psychological well-being of older adults.

Consider these alarming statistics from DailyCaring’s website: • Close to 28 percent or 12.1 million seniors live alone.

• One in five people or 21 percent of those age 65 and older cannot drive or no longer drive.

• Hunger threatens more than 9 million older adults, and one million homebound seniors are malnourished.

• Elderly suicide rates are high.

Tristan Lerma, grins as he receives a toy tractor set from Blue Santa.

Photo by Alexandria Randolph

FACES OF CHRISTMAS

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19

• More than 87 percent of Americans receive unpaid care at home from family and friends.

However, for 19 years, Denise Usener, executive director of the Golden Hub Community Center in Fredericksburg, has worked tirelessly to ensure that senior citizens in Gillespie County celebrate the happiest of holidays.

Formed as a senior center in 1975, facility staff initiated a Meals on Wheels program the following year to provide hot meals to homebound older adults. This month, the Golden Hub, now a part of the Gillespie County Committee on Aging, celebrates its 36th anniversary.

The Monday through Friday Meals on Wheels delivery, and its companion, an in-house congregate luncheon at the Golden Hub, play integral parts in the nonprofit’s holiday experience for seniors without family or close friends.

This year’s annual Christmas luncheon begins at 11:15 a.m. Dec. 19 and will include a special meal with appetizers, ham, cranberries and casseroles of mashed potatoes and green beans, among other tasty fare, but there also will be games, music and more for dining-in guests.

“We try to make this luncheon special because, for a lot of people, this will be their holiday meal,” Denise said.

The same rings true for the Meals on Wheels dinners delivered to approximately 100 seniors who live in

Fredericksburg, Stonewall and Harper. These special holiday deliveries also include Christmas cards and ornaments created by Gillespie County school students, as well as special goodie bags put together by the staff and volunteers at the Golden Hub. “Sponsorships help fund the gifts, and we include items we think might be helpful to seniors,” Denise said.

Additionally, an Angel Tree, displayed in the lobby of the Chase Bank, 150 E. Main St. in Fredericksburg, is decorated with paper angels with information about the Golden Hub’s homebound senior clients.

“The staff and board members gather the information, and each ornament includes gender, age and a mini wish list of two to four requests that can vary from chocolates and candles to a pair of pants and a new calendar,” Denise said. “We collect the presents and partner with the volunteers at the Hill Country Community Needs Council to deliver them to our homebound clients.”

Prior to delivery, the gifts can be dropped of at the Chase Bank or the HCCNC office, 1904 N. Llano St., by Dec. 15.

“We thank everyone in our community for their unceasing generosity at this special time of the year,” Denise said.

To get involved, call 830-997-7131.

The annual Christmas luncheon at the Golden Hub Community Center in Fredericksburg is always a festive occasion with a Christmas-centric menu, traditional decorations, music and games.

20

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Hill Country CULTURE | DECEMBER 2018

Courtesy photo

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Hill Country CULTURE | DECEMBER 2018

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SERVING THE TEXAS HILL COUNTRY FOR MORE THAN 40 YEARS 24

TEXAS

Hill Country CULTURE | DECEMBER 2018

Toy soldiers

German keepsakes bring luck and protection to families Story by Travis Webb

H

oliday traditions are a staple in many homes. Whether it’s an heirloom ornament that always gets a prime spot on the tree, a beloved meal made with grandma’s secret recipe or a family-favorite story or song, these little details give our holidays a sense of consistency — a permanence that spans generations.

For Karen Guerriero and her family, that tradition is nutcrackers.

“I’m old, but I’m the youngest in my family and things passed down are so important,” she said.

Karen’s first nutcracker was a gift from her parents, presented during her first Christmas after getting married. That was the gift that started the

tradition, with family adding to it each year. But it wasn’t until Karen’s mother-in-law, Margaret, passed her own nutcracker collection down

Photo by Tom Holden

Karen Guerriero’s favorite nutcracker in her family’s collection of approximately 40 is a scruffy, worn example with a battered hat.

TXHCCULTURE.COM

25

that the assortment truly blossomed.

These days, the Guerrieros have about 40 nutcrackers in their collection. Some are brand new, while others are well-worn and well-loved vintage pieces.

“Some of the nutcrackers show their age and have wear and tear from being displayed, stored or moved over the years. Many have tattered hats, missing limbs and scruffy beards — but that just gives them more character,” Karen said.

“Although just decorative, our children tried to crack a nut with one when they were little, resulting in one of them losing their lower jaw.”

Her favorite, a scruffy, worn example with a battered hat, gets a prime spot on the display in the Guerriero home.

“He’s got so much character,” she said. “He looks like he’s been through a lot.”

Those who know the Guerreros likely also will know they like to let a little of their own character shine through each holiday, with fun and tasteful seasonal decorations.

In fact, Karen’s nutcrackers aren’t even her only Christmas collection — she also has a porcelain village and a vast store of Christmas cards.

“I’ve still got every Christmas card we’ve ever received,” she said.

Both will be on display for the holiday, but she said it’s still the nutcrackers that her loved ones look for and think of first.

“They’ve come to expect it,” she said.

In German tradition, the dolls are symbols of good luck, their traditionally martial appearances intended to scare aware malevolent spirits.

These familiar dolls, often called “Christmas nutcrackers,” first appeared in the 1600s and were frequently given as gifts, especially for Christmas.

They slowly grew in popularity and spread throughout Europe, becoming popular in the U.S. after World War II, when legions of returning American soldiers brought them home as gifts and souvenirs.

“I read that, according to German folklore, nutcrackers were given as keepsakes to bring good luck and to protect your family,” Karen said.

“They also represent the ‘cycle of life.’ The seed of a nut falls to the ground and it grows into a strong tree, living over hundreds of years before nourishing the woodcutters and woodcrafters.”

Karen said she intends to grow her collection, bringing them out to adorn her home each Christmas season, as a small army of familiar and welcomed visitors.

“We’ll continue to grow our nutcracker collection as we celebrate our love for family,” she said. “And I appreciate the luck and protection that they provide.”

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Photos by Tom Holden

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28

This TEXAS

Hill Country CULTURE | DECEMBER 2018

old house

Historic Garden District home with a view Story by Jenna Carpenter

N

TXHCCULTURE.COM

Courtesy photo

estled in the Westland Subdivision lies a slice of history.

At 614 W. Main St., is a home that was built in the 1930s and owned by Hal Peterson.

Peterson arrived in Kerrville at the age of 15.

Three years later, he bought the Weston Garage in downtown Kerrville.

His bother, Charlie, followed him to Kerrville, and the two started Peterson Interests, which was made up of 22 companies.

The fortune that followed paved the way for the Hal and Charlie Peterson Foundation, which built Sid Peterson Memorial Hospital.

Hal and his wife lived in West Main Street home.

The three-bedroom, twobathroom home is in the historical Garden District of Kerrville and comes complete with a guest house.

Start the morning in the 2,600-square-foot home with a cup of coffee in the spacious sun room, overlooking the breathtaking Hill Country through beautiful wide windows and go to sleep gazing at stars in the large master bedroom.

The home features a fireplace, high ceilings, shower stall, walk-in closets, cellar and wide pull-down stairs for easy access to the attic.

The outside of the home includes a deck, doublepane windows, fenced yard and sprinkler system.

29

HOME SHOWCASE

Courtesy photos

30

Family and friends alike will marvel at the stucco walls, red tile roof, hardwood floors and crown molding.

The home features a kitchen, bath and two-car garage complete with work benches and cabinets.

On the property, which is half a mile away from Starkey Elementary School, there is a large three-car carport, storage sheds, firepit and concrete fish pond.

So, whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seeking some quiet time, curled up with a book or roasting marshmallows with family cuddled up with blankets, this home in the heart of the Hill Country may be just the thing.

To schedule a visit, contact Lucy Burton at 830-895-1801 or lucy@c21thehills.com.

TEXAS

Hill Country CULTURE | DECEMBER 2018

1/8 PageCOONEY

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1/4 Page Randy Purswell RANDY PURSWELL # Realtor ®

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TXHCCULTURE.COM

31

GET TO KNOW

Get to know

Jeff Talarico

1. I have been with Caryn, my college sweetheart, for 36 years, and we’ve been married for 31 of those.

2. I have two grown children, my daughters, Caitlyn and Rebekah.

3. Currently, I have one granddaughter, Mary Harper.

4. My blood runs black and gold — that’s for all Pittsburgh sports teams.

5. I grew up in a print shop, learning how to run an AB Dick 360 Offset Printing Press, a Heidelberg Windmill and a Chief 25 Offset Press.

6. I am a published author of “Keeping Your Pipeline Full: 57 Ways to Increase Sales by Prospecting.”

7. I know Santa Clause on a personal basis.

8. I enjoy the stage when the part is right.

9. I wasn’t born in Texas, but have lived here almost half of my life.

10. I went to high school and played football with a now member of the NFL’s Hall of Fame, Randall McDaniel.

11. My first and only All-Star Game was at Three Rivers Stadium in 1974.

12. I enjoy taking silly pictures with those I love.

13. If I could do anything other than what I do for a living, it would be a toss-up between preaching and a radio disc jockey. Hey, maybe I could combine the two.

14. I am blessed to have my whole family living in Kerrville — Caryn’s side and my sister, Angela, and her family.

15. I know the meaning of Ahr, Arnt, Kuznit, Dahntahn and Yinz.

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Hill Country CULTURE | DECEMBER 2018

Center photo by Tom Holden. Top and bottom are courtesy photos

15 things you didn’t know about Jeff Talarico

1/4 Page 1011 Bistro #

Wine Weekdays @ 1011 Bistro BRING YOUR BOTTLE - NO CORKING FEE TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY!

RESERVATIONS 830-895-1169 1011 Guadalupe Street H Kerrville, Texas

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Total Image Salon

400 Quinlan Street • Kerrville • 896-6322

1/4 Page Team of Total Image Our Salon Specialized #

Technicians and Master Stylists will meet your every need.

Our Gift to you for the

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any hair service of $55.00 or more on your first visit to Total Image Salon.

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Seeking experienced Hair Stylist to join our team.

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antiques, oddities, fine art and fine jewelry.

Sign up for our email list on our website: FitchEstateSales.com

233 Earl Garrett — 830-257-8482 — Kerrville, TX 78028 TXHCCULTURE.COM

33

The Hill Country is a Winter Wonderland

9 local cities offer holiday activities outdoors this season Story by Chelsea M.K. Stack

BANDERA Holiday Lights on the River A walk or drive-through Christmas display with more than 100 lighted Christmas trees and merchant displays.

6-9 p.m. Dec. 1-31; City Park, 1102 Maple St. Cowboy Capital Christmas, Shopper’s Jubilee & Christmas Night Parade Lighting the Christmas tree, living nativity, Christmas program, parade, carolers in period costume and more.

4:45-9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 7, parade at 11 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 8; Bandera County Courthouse, 511 Main St.; banderatexasbusiness.com/cowboychristmas.htm Singing in the Saddle Caroling trail ride and visit local 34

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Hill Country CULTURE | DECEMBER 2018

nursing homes with wagons and buggies available for nonriders.

1-3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 15; Boys and Girls Club on 11th and Maple streets; 951-757-2118 BOERNE Christmas Light Fest Drive or ride on the hayride through two miles of more than 2 million lights and Santa’s Village.

6-10 p.m. Thursday-Sunday Nov. 22 -Dec. 16, every night Dec. 20-30; Enchanted Springs Ranch, 242 Texas 46 W; christmaslightfest.com Dickens on Main Period costumed shopkeepers, tree lighting, wassailing, caroling, Santa, ice sculptures, 60-foot snow slide, horse drawn carriage rides and more.

4-10 p.m. Nov. 23-24, shops open 10 a.m.-9 p.m., snow sunset to 10 p.m.; Hill Country Mile on Main St. from Blanco to River roads; boernedickensonmain.com 32nd Annual Weihnachts Parade Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree theme with up to 100 lighted parade floats.

6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 1; Main Street from Frederick Street to River Road; ci.boerne.tx.us Christmas Town Walk through “Town of Bethlehem,” 24-foot gingerbread house and more than 100 decorated trees; live music and hayride.

6-9 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays, Dec. 7-8, 14-15; 43360 IH 10 West; thechristmastown.com COMFORT Christmas in Comfort More than 150 arts and crafts booths, live music, Santa, Weinachten Lichter Christmas lights parade and fireworks display.

10 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 24,

Photo of Light the Night Christmas Parade courtesy of Fredericksburg Chamber of Commerce

G

et outdoors and in the spirit of Christmas this holiday season in the beautiful Texas Hill Country. From campfires to fireworks, elaborate light displays to lighted night parades, period costumed carolers to singing Christmas trees, live nativities to historical and home tours, snow slides to ice skating and more, residents and visitors have plenty of choices. There’s even opportunities to do some Christmas shopping beneath the starry sky, not to mention chopping down a fresh Christmas tree to decorate the home with. These nine local cities will keep the outdoors types entertained throughout the holiday season.

Photo of Johnson City Lights Spectacular courtesy of Johnson City Chamber of Commerce

GREAT OUTDOORS 7-9 p.m. parade, 9 p.m. fireworks; High, 8th and 7th streets; comfortchamber.com/events/ christmas-in-comfort FREDERICKSBURG Annual lighting German pyramid and community Christmas tree Weihnachtspyramide, a 26-foot-tall structure with German scenes and rotating tiers, is lit.

6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 23; Marktplatz, 126 W. Main St.; visitfredericksburgtx.com St. Nick’s Christmas Tree Farm Outdoor activities, refreshments, free snacks and choose-n-cut Christmas trees.

11 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Friday-Sunday, Nov. 23-Dec. 17; 12638 N. Texas 16; texaschristmastrees.net/stnicksfarm. htm Eisbahn An outdoor ice skating rink.

10 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturdays, 1-8 p.m.

Sundays, 4-10 p.m. Fridays, 4-8 p.m.

Mondays-Thursdays, Nov. 27Jan. 6; Marktplatz, 126 W. Main St.; heritageschool.org/eisbahn Holiday Home Tour & Market A fundraiser where participants walk through decorated homes.

11 a.m.-5 p.m. tour, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. market Saturday, Dec. 1; 312 W. San Antonio St.; pioneermuseum.net Light the Night Christmas Parade & AfterGlow Parade with more than 130 entries and AfterGlow with holiday shopping, Santa and more.

6:30 p.m. parade, 3-9 p.m.

AfterGlow, 8-10 p.m. Santa Friday, Dec. 7; Marktplatz, 126 W. Main St.; lightthenightchristmasparade.com “A Christmas Journey” A 10-minute drive-through nativity with complimentary hay ride.

6-8:30 p.m.

Dec. 14-15; Bethany

Lutheran Church, 110 W. Austin; bethanyfredericksburg.com Der Singende Weihnachtsbaum The Singing Christmas Tree, a 30-foot tall metal structure where singers perform an hour-long musical program.

6:30 p.m. Dec. 15-16; The Pioneer Museum, 325 W. Main St.; pioneermuseum.net/singingchristmas-tree.html INGRAM City of Ingram Christmas Parade and tree lighting A parade with live music and Santa.

6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8; Ingram Loop from 510 College St. to 107 Old Ingram Loop; cityofingram.com JOHNSON CITY Johnson City Lights Spectacular More than a million twinkling lights on three city blocks, fireworks, Santa, chuckwagon food court, hay and carriage rides, a 5K run and the Lighted Hooves and Wheels Parade.

6:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 23 lighting ceremony, 6:30 p.m. parade Saturday, Nov. 24, lights up through Jan. 6; johnsoncitytexas.info/lightsspectacular.html Living Story of Christmas A living nativity runs every 30 minutes.

6:30-8:30 p.m. Dec. 7-9, 14-15; First United Methodist Church, 105 LBJ Drive; johnsoncitytexas.info Christmas Through the Years Live Christmas and country music, chuckwagon demonstrations, cowboy Christmas stories, Ford Model T exhibit and “A Charlie Brown Christmas” outdoor movie.

6-9 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8; LBJ Boyhood Home, 200 Elm St.; nps. gov

KERRVILLE Holiday Lighted Parade & Courthouse Lighting Ceremony Lighting the 45-foot-tall community tree, a lighted float parade and Santa.

6 p.m. parade, 7:30 p.m. ceremony Saturday, Nov. 17; Kerr County Courthouse, 700 Main St.; kerrvilletx.gov Light the Island City will light trees in Tranquility Island with Christmas lights.

Nov. 22-Dec. 31; Tranquility Island, 202 Thompson Drive; kerrvilletx.gov Kerrville Ministerial Alliance Christmas Walk First Baptist, First Presbyterian, First Assembly of God, St. Peter Episcopal and Notre Dame Catholic churches will each present a 20-minute Christmas-themed service, retelling the Christmas story.

5:30-7:50 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 4; starts at Notre Dame, 909 Main St., refreshments at First Presbyterian, 800 Jefferson St.; kerrvillewelcomewagon@yahoo.com Christmas Skate Extravaganza Ice skating on a synthetic ice rink.

4-7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 14; First Baptist Church, 625 Washington St.; fbckerrville.com PIPE CREEK Pipe Creek Christmas Tree Farm The farm sells choose and cut Christmas trees on its seven-acre farm.

11 a.m.-dark every day, Nov. 19-Dec. 12 or until they sell out; 805 Phil’s Road; pipecreekchristmastrees.com STONEWALL 49th Annual LBJ Tree Lighting Carolers, live nativity, lighting a candle-lit German Christmas tree, Santa and German refreshments.

6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 16; LBJ State Park and Historic Site, 199 Park Road 52; tpwd. state.tx.us/state-parks/ lyndon-b-johnson

TXHCCULTURE.COM

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GIFT GUIDE

B

ing Crosby sang of “It’s Christmas time in the city.”

But this is the Texas Hill Country. Accordingly, we’ve selected some of the finest goods to be found at local stores, shops and retailers — all with the unique flavor of the Lone Star State in mind.

Whether brand new, a vintage offering or fine art, these gifts marry rustic Texas charm to big-city sophistication.

BETTER 1

1. Pendleton bath towel; $49.99, Kerrville Ranch and Pet Center

11

2

2. Cedar cheese board with antler handles and utensils, $125, East End Market 3. Vintage leather belt and Western buckle; available at East End Market

3

4. Traeger’s ’Que Sauce; $9.99, Hill Country Propane

4

5. Antler candle holder; $13, East End Market 6. Torched candles; $9.99, Kerrville Ranch and Pet Center 7. Vintage pocket knives; available at East End Market

10

5

9 6 7

8. Blackbuck antelope horn bottle opener; $40 East End Market 9. Bison Airlighter 420; $57.95, Hill Country Propane 10. German Staghorn steak knife set; $80, East End Market 11. KimesRanch Skink Jacket; $80, Kerrville Ranch and Pet Center 12. “Hot on the Rocks;” The Museum of Western Art, museum memberships make a fine gift, more information is available at museumofwesternart.com

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Hill Country CULTURE | DECEMBER 2018

12

8

TO GIVE 18. Men’s antique pocket watch and chain; $800, Baublit Jewelers

13

19. Lady’s Yellow 14 Karat Small Hoop Earrings with Fresh Water White Pearls; $116, Segner’s Jewelers, Inc. 20. Lady’s Yellow 14 Karat Ring with Fresh Water Pearls; $350, Segner’s Jewelers, Inc. 21. Vintage bangles; prices vary, East End Market 22. Women’s vintage platinum diamond ring; $2,800, Fitch Estate Sales

28

14

23. Women’s pearl strand; $895, Baublit Jewelers 24. Blue rhinestone costume clip-on earrings; $44, East End Market

15

16

20

25. Lady’s assorted cuff bangles; $35 each, Segner’s Jewelers

21

26. 1980s Judith Leiber belt; $75, East End Market

22 25 17

18

23

24

19

13. Verve Spirit Silk Chiffon hand-dyed scarf

by Leila Reynolds; $60, The Thing is Boutique 14. HiEnd Accents melamine dinnerware, large serving bowl; $17.30, Kerrville Ranch and Pet Center

27. Mary Frances “Here Kitty, Kitty” Purse; $42, The Thing is Boutique

27 26

28. Myra Bag Cowhide Brown and White Bag; $89.99, Hometown Crafts & Gifts

15. Antique decanter and glasses; $88.50, Fitch Estate Sales 16. Vintage pink rhinestone earrings; $44, East End Market 17. White gold and garnet ring; $3,167, Baublit Jewelers

TXHCCULTURE.COM

37

Built on pride & loyalty Mooney employees stay for decades Story by Nancy Foster

N

o matter where you travel in the world, if you encounter any aviation enthusiast and mention that you live in Kerrville, Texas, the immediate comeback will likely be, “That’s the home of Mooney.” Mooney is an iconic name and a definite source of community pride. But that pride also can be found inside Mooney’s expansive, 15-building complex, based adjacent to Kerrville/Kerr County Airport at Louis Schreiner Field off Texas 27.

It’s a love story between Mooney and its employees. Quite obviously, this company cares for its people.

“We are like a family, and we help each other,” said Devan Burns, employee relations specialist. “It is loyalty and

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Hill Country CULTURE | DECEMBER 2018

pride that builds the Mooney aircraft.”

Pride is very evident throughout the company. We met Lucy Hernandez and Norma Havran in the upholstery department, where they work with soft, buttery Italian leathers to create exquisite custom leather seats and panels that are among the luxury touches Mooney owners have come to expect. They delight in demonstrating the tools and techniques used in the process.

Mooney currently employs 160 people, many of whom have been with the company for decades.

“Our employees have extensive knowledge and expertise in many different areas,” Devan said.

A stellar team of engineers, industrial designers and professionals

research, design, build and test innovative aircrafts, while others work in production departments, including metal precision welds, leather and paint, inspection and flight testing.

Employee loyalty to both the company and brand is legendary. When the company went into production hiatus in 2008, many jobs were eliminated, but “25 percent of our employees returned when we reopened in 2014,” Devan said.

Bert Vollmar, in the engineering test department, is one of them. This highly skilled employee has been with Mooney for 40 years.

Kellie Maletic, marketing manager, sums up the Mooney success story quite nicely.

HILL COUNTRY MADE “Our vision is to keep the Mooney brand forefront in the mind of our customers,” she said.

History Mooney is celebrating its 70th year and hailed as a pioneer and pathfinder for innovation in aviation. The company that began with the vision of brothers Albert and Art Mooney back in 1929 and was incorporated as Mooney International Corporation in 1948, has made an indelible mark in the aviation industry. Today, it is owned by Henan Meijing Group Co. which purchased it in 2013.

To date, Mooney has delivered more than 12,000 of its highly coveted aircraft to pilots worldwide. With “a passion for speed, strength and safety that defines Mooney’s philosophy,” this company takes pride in the production and quality of each plane they manufacture.

They also are very proud to be recognized as an important part of Kerrville‘s business community.

The Planes

All photos by Tom Holden. Center photo by Nancy Foster.

Center: Employee Relations Specialist Devan Burns, Marketing Manager Kellie Maletic and Vice President of Production Operations Robert Dutton with the Ovation Ultra.

Mooney currently hand builds two four-seater aircrafts: the naturally aspirated Ovation Ultra and the twin turbocharged Acclaim Ultra. Each plane takes several thousand manhours to produce to the exact specifications.

The 2018 Acclaim Ultra is its flagship aircraft. With a wingspan of 36 feet, 6 inches, maximum operating altitude of 25,000 feet and max cruising speed of 242 knots true air speed, this model is all about state-of-the-art luxury with an elegant cockpit and seamless ergonomics.

The 2018 Ovation Ultra cruises at 197 knots, has a maximum operation altitude of 20,000 feet and maximum long-range cruising speed of 1,400 nautical miles. The fuselage structure is comprised of composite shell wrapped around a safety cage

fabricated out of 4130 Chromoly Alloy Steel Tube, which is precision cut and TIG welded together. Precision equipment is used by their team of experts.

“The vast majority of parts are also fabricated right here at the Kerrville plant, and the aircrafts are assembled, test flown and delivered from here, as well,” Kellie said.

Robert Dutton, vice president of production operations, pointed out machinery used in the production of the planes.

“We have some of the oldest aerospace manufacturing equipment around, including a massive hydro-press from the ’60s, which is still operating just as efficiently as it did when new, plus the newest state-of-the-art equipment, including CNC Mills, lathes, punches, water jets and 3D printers,” he said.

The company has garnered many awards and records. Flying Magazine credits it with more than 130 world speed and altitude records and 21 Type certificates.

Mooney also has received recognition for fastest flight from coast-to-coast across North America in a single-engine, pistonpowered certified aircraft, achieved by an M20V Acclaim Ultra, which flew nearly 1,900 miles at a top speed of 237 ktas at FL230.

“Our planes have a tremendous safety record,” he said.

The company also does custom orders and has an extensive parts and service center. The Mooney Manufacturing and Services division “provides expertise in aerospace part fabrication and assembly” and strives to be “the single source for all your fabrication and assembly needs,” Robert said.

“Our mission is to promote the Mooney brand by building safe, custom-built airplanes and keeping to the Mooney brand of standards,” he said.

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Christmas party side dishes From cole slaw to cream corn, four locals offer recipes Story by Chelsea M.K. Stack

C

hristmastime always brings with it invitations to holiday parties, as well as work and church potlucks.

Sometimes, it’s difficult to either narrow down exactly what to make to bring or to find a new recipe, because the first one that came to mind has been overdone. Three locals and one restaurant have made it easier to plan the perfect side dish to bring to the party this year by sharing four of their own go-to recipes. Enjoy!

Sweet Potato Bacon and Egg Salad

By Katie Milton

By Mamacita’s

Ingredients • 5 lbs. tomatillos • 2.5 oz. cilantro • 1 oz. jalapeno • 2 tsp. garlic powder • 1.5 tbsp. salt • 3 oz. melted margarine • 1/2 cup flour Directions 1. Boil tomatoes and peppers for 15 minutes, making sure tomatillos remain whole.

2. Subsequently blend all five ingredients in a blender, then put product into a pot, add roux to thicken.

Simmer and mix well until desired thickness.

Mamacita’s, mamacitas.com.

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Directions 1. Remove the skin from the sweet potato and cut into 2-inch squares.

2. Place sweet potatoes into a pot of water to boil.

3. Hard boil the eggs.

4. Fry the bacon and chop. Set aside.

5. While the potatoes and eggs are boiling, make the Paleo mayonnaise if you do not have store bought.

Simply put one raw egg into a mason jar along with 1 cup light tasting extra virgin olive oil along with a dash of salt and a tablespoon of lemon juice. Blend well with an immersion blender.

6. In a large serving bowl or container, mix all ingredients, garnish with dill and serve chilled.

Courtesy photos

Salsa Verde

Ingredients • 8 slices bacon • 4 tbsp. dill, fresh • 1 sweet potato, medium • 2 eggs, large • 2 tbsp. lemon juice • 2 tbsp. paleo mayonnaise

GOOD TASTE 7. For an extra kick, you may consider adding a tablespoon of yellow mustard. Enjoy!

Serves: 2 NOTE: Gluten-free and paleo.

Katie Milton is an entrepreneur and coach who’s enjoyed the paleo lifestyle since 2011. You can follow her on Instagram @ miltonkatie.

Red and Green Texas Coleslaw

By Don Grogg

Homestyle Cream Corn

By Noel Stacey Ingredients • (3) 15-ounce cans sweet corn, drained • (1) 8-ounce cream cheese block • 1 stick butter • 1/4 cup half-n-half • 1/2 tsp. salt • 1 tsp. sugar Directions 1. Drain the corn and place in a medium saucepan.

2. Add butter and cream cheese, then stir until both are melted.

3. Stir in a generous splash of half-n-half, salt and sugar.

4. Stir and simmer over low heat until ready to serve, at least 15 minutes.

NOTE: Homestyle Cream Corn also can be prepared in a slow cooker for easy transportation to holiday functions.

1. Place first three ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on high for 2-3 hours.

2. Once corn is heated through, stir to break up any clumps of cream cheese.

3. Stir in remaining three ingredients at least 30 minutes before serving.

Noel Stacey is the owner and author of mywildkitchen.com.

She can be reached at info@mywildkitchen.com or through all the major social media outlets, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest.

Coleslaw Ingredients • 1 head of each — red and green cabbage, sliced to 1/2 inch, then chopped into smaller pieces • 1 bunch of green onion tops and bottoms, chopped • 2 cups of each — seedless red and green grapes, sliced in half • 2 firm avocados, pitted, sliced and chopped • 2 crisp apples — red and green — seeded and chopped into 1/2-inch cubes • 1 cup Texas pecans, toasted and salted • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro (optional) • 2 tbsp. ascorbic acid (fruit fresh) to keep the ingredients from turning brown Dressing Ingredients • 1 bottle Brianna’s Poppy Seed Dressing • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, lime juice or rice wine vinegar, just to cut sweetness of dressing • Course ground black pepper • Salt to taste Directions 1. Mix all ingredients together in a big, wide bowl or in a large, unscented trash bag.

2. Add the dressing and toss again.

3. Chill for at least one hour and serve very cold.

Serves: 25 NOTE: This is a great looking salad served in a big, clear glass bowl. Always make more than needed, as this slaw works well with all types of food and leftovers are great the next couple of days.

Don Grogg culinary training came from his German aunt and grandmother, cooking school taught by famous restaurateur Tony Vallone and the first Flavors of the Napa Valley Food Enthusiast course at the Culinary Institute of America Food Enthusiasts. He is a CIA Certified Wine Professional and wrote food columns for Lifestyle Magazine. Email him at dlgrogg@gmail.com.

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Cotton gin roots Sister Creek Vineyards celebrates 30 years of wine making

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rom the outside, Sister Creek Vineyards looks like an 1885 cotton gin with rough and weather worn siding and a rusty roof, dating back many years. Inside, the floors are the original planks and the posts are original and hand hewn.

Folks are welcomed who just want to come see the place.

After ending its life as a cotton gin in the 1920s, the grounds, 1142 Sisterdale Highway in Sisterdale, were used for ranching until Vernon Friesenhahn, of San Antonio, bought the property. Since then, buildings have been added for wine making, but the siding on all the buildings have a rough, weather-beaten exterior. Inside, there is modern wine making equipment that produces 13,00014,000 cases of wine each year.

Tradition reigns here, where Sister Creek is celebrating 30 years of wine making. They still make the wines folks have tasted, bought and returned to buy again and again.

Vernon, owner, and David Prejza, tasting room manager, honor the idiom that, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.”

Danny Hernandez, winemaker and winery manager, has been making award-winning European-style wines for 30 years. The team is completed by Dr. Enrique Ferro, consultant from the University of Turin, Italy.

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Tours into the wine making rooms are very popular. A fact sheet is available for oenophiles to take a self-guided tour. Tours are encouraged as an overflow plan when the small wine tasting area gets too crowded.

The tour includes the stainless steel tanks, which are used for starting primary wine fermenting and processing. Some tanks use cooling jackets and generously help air condition the area with its 2-inch thick coating of ice. The grape juice is kept cold to prevent fermentation from happening until the winemaker is ready to do his magic. These tanks, almost the size of a small house, hold 2,500-5,200 gallons of juice.

Onto the French and American oak barrel aging rooms where the wines are aged for six months to one year. Each wine barrel represents an investment of $550-1,000 and each holds about 60 gallons, or 300 bottles of wine. All wines are lightly filtered for maximum flavors.

Muscat Canelli, one of their best selling wines, is “summertime in a bottle.” It is a white, Italian-style wine with residual sugar and is slightly carbonated. Crisp citrus flavor is balanced with fruity and floral aromas. It is the only wine not aged in oak barrels.

Another favorite is Cabernet Sauvignon 3-Blend, aged

Courtesy photos

Story by John and Carol Aceti

UNCORKED

one year in oak barrels, boasting a Red Bordeaux Meritagestyle, with flavors of black currants, blackberry, black cherry, spice, vanilla and toast.

Grapes for Sister Creek wines come mainly from the Texas Panhandle with the rest from California. Some grapes come from the five acres of grapes on the property, but lately, raccoons seem to be the most satisfied customers.

Lots of medals adorn the wine bottles at Sister Creek. The Muscat Canelli Reserve, vintage 2017, won Best in Class at the Los Angeles International Wine Competition. Muscat Canelli also brought home a silver at the same competition.

Winners from 2015 and 2016 were the Cabernet Sauvignon 3-Blend, 4-Blend and 5-Blend at the New York International Eastern Wine Competition and the San Francisco International Wine Competition.

Wine club members are happy with the service which includes six shipments each year of three, six or 12 bottles with discounts and wine tasting perks. Wine is shipped during the summer months since the bottles are cuddled in plastic foam and are minimally subjected to the summer temperatures of Texas. Events are held twice a year, especially for club members.

Quaint and historic, the wine tasting room looks similar to the corner of the barn, where the family gathered to sample the wine that grandpa made. Unfortunately, wineby-the-glass is not served, and weddings or parties cannot be held there due to space limitations.

But many find their way to Sister Creek Vineyards by traveling the scenic roads to Sisterdale to find wines that Texans have enjoyed for 30 years.

John and Carol Aceti

TXHCCULTURE.COM

Courtesy photos

After encouragement from Dick Holmberg, owner of Singing Water Vineyards, John wrote “Wineries of the Texas Hill Country Plus One Fine Brewery” in December 2016. After visiting 30 wineries in the Hill Country, he is convinced that the area has plenty to offer wine connoisseurs and casual wine enthusiasts.

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TRAVEL PRESENTATION We invite you to join Kerrville Travel for a Special Travel Presentation with

December Events DEC. 1 Hugelland Holiday Marathon

1/2 Page Vertical Kerrville Travel #

Hill Country Bicycle Works Texas Marathon Mountain Bike State Championship Series races of 13, 26 and 40 miles.

9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday; Hill Top Trails, 2329 N. Llano St., Fredericksburg; visitfredericksburgtx.com

Christmas Bazaar Christmas music, vendors, Hondo Crouch’s birthday, Santa and lighting the Luckenbach Christmas tree.

1-9 p.m. Saturday; 412 Luckenbach Town Loop, Luckenbach; luckenbachtexas.com

A Ranger Christmas Former Texas Rangers Foundation sponsors event with Cowboy Santa, Ranger Town, caroling and hot chocolate.

2:30-5 p.m. Saturday; Texas Rangers Heritage Center, 1618 E. Main St., Fredericksburg; trhc.org

Hill Country Chorale Christmas in the Hill Country Christmas music with choral and instrumental selections.

4 p.m. Saturday; The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center, 201 Holdsworth Drive, Kerrville; hillcountrychorale.org

Michael Martin Murphey: “Cowboy Christmas” A Christmas version of campfire cowboy music.

4 and 8 p.m. Saturday; Rockbox Theater, 109 N. Llano St., Fredericksburg; rockboxtheater.com

DEC. 1-2 “Sanders Family Christmas”

Tuesday, January 29, 2019 at 3:00pm at the Inn of the Hills Hotel in Kerrville (1001 Junction Hwy.) Come enjoy a glass of wine as you learn all about wonderful European River Cruises with AMA Waterways, and incredible train trips to the Canadian Rockies with Rocky Mountaineer.

SPECIAL BOOKING OFFERS and TRAVEL GIFT CERTIFICATE DRAWING

KERRVILLE

TRAVEL “Your Travel Concierge” (830) 257-6266

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The Sanders Family Singers sends Dennis off to war on Christmas in 1941 with stories and Christmas songs.

7:30 p.m. Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday; Hill Country Arts Foundation, 120 Point Theatre Road, Ingram; hcaf.com

DEC. 1-14 ArtMart Christmas shopping showcase with Texan artists.

10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday; Hill Country Arts Foundation, 120 Point Theatre Road, Ingram; hcaf.com

DEC. 1-16 “Nuncrackers” A Nunsense Christmas musical with humor, carols and “secret Santa” audience participation.

7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 9 and 16; Playhouse 2000 VK Garage, 305 Washington St., Kerrville; playhouse2000.com

DEC. 2 Hill Country Youth Orchestras Winter Concert Students of HCYO share seasonal classical masterpieces.

3-5 p.m. Sunday; Cailloux Theater, 910 Main St., Kerrville; hcyo.org

“Joyeux Noel: Christmas with Willow City” Pop-folk and bluegrass Christmas songs.

2 p.m. Sunday; Fredericksburg Theater Company, 1668 South U.S. 87, Fredericksburg; fredericksburgtheater.org

DEC. 4-5 A Walk in Bethlehem Interactive nativity scene at 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. with census count, denarii, authentic shops and crafts.

6 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday; St. Helena’s Episcopal Church, 410 N Main St., Boerne; visitboerne.org

DEC. 6 “Peace On Earth:” Holiday Music for the Hill Country Holiday music with a wine and cheese reception at 6:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m. Thursday; Cailloux Theater, 910 Main St., Kerrville; 830-792-7469, symphonyofthehills.org

DEC. 6-JAN. 6 “Kerrville Art Club Juried Show” Annual showing of art from members of the Kerrville Art Club available for sale. Reception is 2-4 p.m. Dec. 8.

10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; Kerr Arts & Cultural Center, Cornels Gallery, 228 Earl Garrett St., Kerrville; kacckerrville.com

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DEC. 7-9 Dog Agility Show Handlers direct dogs through an obstacle course.

8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Hill Country Youth Event Center, 3785 Texas 27, Kerrville; heartoftexasdogsports.com

DEC. 8 Kinderfest Santa and elves fill stockings of children ages 10 and younger, Christmas story, craft and interactive songs 9:30-11:30 a.m. Saturday; Pioneer Museum, 312 W. San Antonio St., Fredericksburg; pioneermuseum.net

Hill Country Holiday Polly Texas Pioneer Association presents music, schoolhouse tours, a Polly exhibit and refreshments.

10 a.m.-noon Saturday; Polly’s Chapel, 359 Polly’s Chapel Road, Bandera; pollytexaspioneerassociation.org

White Christmas in the Hills Kerrville School of Dance and San Antonio Performing Arts Classical Ballet present a Christmas program.

7 p.m. Saturday; Cailloux Theater, 910 Main St., Kerrville; kerrvilletexascvb.com

DEC. 14 11th annual Tannenbaum Ball Black-tie Christmas fundraiser for Gillespie County Historical Society with open bar, dinner, auctions and dancing.

6:30-11:30 p.m. Friday; St. Mary’s Holy Family Center, 304 W. San Antonio St., Fredericksburg; pioneermuseum.net

DEC. 14-23 “Winter Wonderettes” Santa is missing at the annual Harper’s Hardware Holiday Party with ’60s versions of holiday classics.

7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays; Fredericksburg Theater Company, 1668 S. U.S. 87, Fredericksburg; fredericksburgtheater.org

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DEC. 15 The Friends of Gillespie County Country Schools Annual Bake Sale Benefit Baked goods with proceeds going to preservation and improvements on 12 former school buildings.

7 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Saturday; 150 E. Main, 528 W. Main St. and 14462 E. U.S. 290, Fredericksburg; historicschools.org

Christmas at the Kroc

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Pictures with Santa, shopping, free food, arts and crafts, games and musical performances.

10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday; The Salvation Army Ray and Joan Kroc Corps Community Center, 201 Holdsworth Drive, Kerrville; kerrvillekroc.org

“Oh, What a Night!” Christmas Show Christmas songs from Frankie Valli, Andy Williams and the Williams Brothers, Sherry and Big Girls Don’t Cry. 4 and 8 p.m. Saturday; Rockbox Theater, 109 N. Llano St., Fredericksburg; rockboxtheater.com

“Home for the Holidays” The Ten Tenors perform holidays hits, as well as rock and classical songs.

7:30 p.m. Saturday; Boerne Champion Auditorium, 201 Charger Blvd., Boerne; boerneperformingarts.com

DEC. 19 “Rocky Mountain Christmas” Ted Vigil pays tribute to John Denver in a Christmas concert.

7 p.m. Wednesday; Rockbox Theater, 109 N. Llano St., Fredericksburg; rockboxtheater.com

DEC. 21 “Cowboy Christmas” Riders in the Sky perform a holiday musical show.

7:30 p.m. Friday; Cailloux Theater, 910 Main St., Kerrville; caillouxtheater.com

DEC. 22 Christmas at the Museum A Christmas program and surprise visitor.

11 a.m. Saturday; Bandera Natural History Museum, 267 Old San Antonio Road, Bandera; banderacowboycapital.com

The Ranch Concert Series Goat roping and barbecue with live music from Josh Murley from 5-8 p.m. and Pat Waters from 8 p.m.-midnight.

11 a.m. Saturday; Tres Molinos Hill Country Ranch & Resort, 4260 N. Ranch Road 783, Harper; tresmolinosresort.com

Christmas with the Annie Moses Band Christmas Concert with classical, Americana, progressive folk and jazz music.

4 p.m. Saturday; Rockbox Theater, 109 N. Llano St., Fredericksburg; rockboxtheater.com

Winter Solstice — Celebration Circle An eclectic concert of holiday music on ancient and modern instruments.

7 p.m. Saturday; Cave Without a Name, 325 Kreutzberg Road, Boerne; cavewithoutaname.com

Christmas Ball Traditional ball with live music from Gary P. Nunn and Sarah Gayle Meech.

8 p.m. Saturday; 412 Luckenbach Town Loop, Luckenbach; luckenbachtexas.com

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EVENTS DEC. 23 The Everly Brothers Experience Christmas Show The Zmed Brothers perform Christmas songs from the Everlys, Elvis, Chuck Berry and more.

3 p.m. Sunday; Rockbox Theater, 109 N. Llano St., Fredericksburg; rockboxtheater.com

DEC. 24 Christmas in the City Service

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Celebrate the birth of the Savior.

6 p.m. Monday; Main Plaza, 100 N. Main St., Boerne; visitboerne.org

DEC. 26 Zweite Weihnachten Fredericksburg German Club sponsors a second Christmas with food, drink, music and fellowship.

2-5 p.m. Wednesday; Gillespie County Historical Society Social Hall, 312 W. San Antonio St., Fredericksburg; visitfredericksburgtx.com

DEC. 28-29 “Farewell to 2018!”

Donny Edwards pays tribute to Elvis with music.

8 p.m. Friday and 4 p.m. Saturday; Rockbox Theater, 109 N. Llano St., Fredericksburg; rockboxtheater.com

DEC. 31 City of Fredericksburg Countdown Music, arts and crafts, chainsaw ice carving and ball drop at 6 p.m. and midnight.

4 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Monday; Marktplatz, 100 block of W. Main St., Fredericksburg; fbgtx.org

USO-Style New Year’s Eve Hangar Dance Big band music by Bill Smallwood and The Lonestar Swing Orchestra, refreshments, 1940’s costume contest, swing dance lessons and photobooth. Proceeds go to USO Fort Hood.

8 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Monday; Hangar Hotel, 155 Airport Road, Fredericksburg; hangarhotel.com

New Year’s Eve Dance Two-step with live country music by the Almost Patsy Cline Band and champagne toast.

8-11:30 p.m. Monday; 412 Luckenbach Town Loop, Luckenbach; luckenbachtexas.com

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Thankful for our customers

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OUT & ABOUT

Seasonal wrap up The tail end of autumn is always a busy time throughout the Texas Hill Country, with events popping up one after another. From the Kerrville Chalk Festival, the Kerr County Fair and various livestock shows to Tivy High Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rain-delayed homecoming parade and more. Rather than feature a single event, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve elected to give our reader a little taste of several this time around.

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Chef Adrian Nava and Maria Guzman

Val Vaught, Katie Williams and MG Koenig attend

Tamale Making Class at Cartewheels Catering, a part of the International Caterers Association Education Foundation

VIP Chalk Fest party, benefitting the Museum of Western Art

Ryan Caesar

Taylor Henry

Bently Robertson and Billie Kujat

Trailblazer, a fundraiser for the proposed Kerrville Urban Trail System

West Kerr Schools Livestock Show.

The annual Tivy Highschool Homecoming Parade

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A little sparkle for the New Year.

Blaublits Jewelers 2355

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719 Water Street Kerrville, TX 830-257-8317

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Events

W

ith our pristinely manicured golf course, hill country views that stretch for miles in all directions, and experienced staff committed to exceptional service, we are sure to make your event one you will always cherish at Comanche Trace.

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www.comanchetrace.com info@comanchetrace.com Kaitlyn Dorsett, Events Coordinator 830-895-8500 ext. 236