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Bandera County Courier is published weekly by Gail S. Joiner, 1210 Hackberry St., Bandera, TX 78003. Subscription price $26 per year in Bandera County, TX; $36 per year for other Texas counties; $40 per year out of Texas. POSTMASTER: send address changes to Bandera County Courier, P.O. Box 1704, Bandera, TX 78003. Periodicals Postage pending in Bandera, Texas.

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Gail Joiner: Publisher
Carl Holt: Sales/Marketing
Staff: Judith Pannebaker, Editor
David Arny, Writer
Dennis Allyn, Political Cartoonist
Linda Reynolds, Classifieds
James Henry Frazar, Composition Editor
Contributors: Stephanie Parker, Marlene Heavner, Doug White, Clare Barnett, Mikie Baker, Doris Doebbler, Jack Finger, Ed Longhurst, Bill Ellis, Bob Jamison and Jim Harris.

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The Bandera County Courier
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Events Table of Contents
Older events are on other Web pages and the links are referenced at the bottom of the table of contents.

Get ready to rumble – CCRA rodeo just weeks away	Published May 8, 2008
Barbecue Cook-off May 17 in Lakehills	Published May 8, 2008
Alkek stars to shine	Published May 8, 2008
And now for something completely different … MLBA expands home tour	Published May 8, 2008
PCPC sale Saturday	Published May 1, 2008
SNAP trail ride set for May 2-4	Published May 1, 2008
Parish festival Sunday	Published May 1, 2008
Trail ride to benefit rescued horses	Published April 24, 2008
New park headquarters office to open	Published April 24, 2008
Thespians hit boards	Published April 24, 2008
Cowboy church rummage sale Saturday	Published April 24, 2008
Benefit trail ride May 3	Published April 24, 2008
Methodists to hold annual auctions	Published April 24, 2008
ACS Relay For Life scheduled for April 26-27	Published April 17, 2008
Getting the goat for Bandera County Boys & Girls Club	Published April 17, 2008
Annual Methodist auction set May 3	Published April 17, 2008
PCCS Son Shine Festival & Auction serves as major fundraiser	Published April 17, 2008
St. Christopher's spring rummage sale	Published April 17, 2008
‘Come & git it’ – MLVFD BBQ	Published April 10, 2008
BCRW serve sandwiches & salads for scholarships	Published April 3, 2008
LH Legion sets ‘Fiesta’ April 12	Published April 3, 2008
Hypnotism show April 3	Published April 3, 2008
Bandera Home & Landscape Show set April 12	Published April 3, 2008
SonShine Music Festival set for April 19	Published April 3, 2008
Hermann fun day set for Sunday	Published April 3, 2008
8th annual Lakehills UMC Fish Fry, auction, games and more!	Published March 27, 2008
Many auction items available at Lakehills UMC Fish Fry	Published March 20, 2008
Kiwanis Club cooks up pancake fundraiser	Published March 20, 2008
'Par for the Horse' golf tourney	Published March 20, 2008
Cowboy fun at Frontier Times	Published March 17, 2008
Prep underway for ‘Glitter’	Published March 13, 2008
Meet the horse	Published March 13, 2008
CCRA announces BBQ Cook-off	Published March 6, 2008
Turkey Shoot March 15	Published March 6, 2008
Last candidate forum Friday	Published Feb. 28, 2008
‘Love Letters’ at Silver Sage Corral Saturday	Published Feb. 21, 2008
Team penning event Saturday	Published Feb. 21, 2008
Chicken supper Tuesday, Feb. 26	Published Feb. 21, 2008
Pop’s Place chili cook-off this Saturday	Published Feb. 21, 2008
‘Chili Queens’ cook up a storm for Frontier Times	Published Feb. 21, 2008
Project Graduation Prom Fashion Show March 30	Published Feb. 21, 2008
Triple H benefits from Massacre	Published Feb. 14, 2008
Pasta Up! CCPAL’s annual Sweetheart Spaghetti Dinner set	Published Feb. 14, 2008
Team penning clinic, competition Feb. 23	Published Feb. 14, 2008
Best pork rib chefs invited to sixth annual Wild Hog Explosion Cook-off	Published Feb. 14, 2008
Out & about with the BC Chamber of Commerce	Published Feb. 7, 2008
BC Library celebrates 75th BD with ‘hawgs’ of all varieties	Published Feb. 7, 2008
Knights of Columbus have ‘fish to fry’ on Fridays	Published Jan. 31, 2008
Alkek hosts Family Math & Science Night	Published Jan. 31, 2008
LH Library sponsors Valentine spaghetti fest	Published Jan. 31, 2008
Castle Lake bingo Feb. 10	Published Jan. 24, 2008
20th annual Wild Game Dinner this Saturday	Published Jan. 24, 2008
Las Vegas night Saturday	Published Jan. 24, 2008
Medina Lake VFD awards banquet set	Published Jan. 24, 2008
Baubles & Boots set Saturday	Published Jan. 17, 2008
Mounted shooters match set Feb. 16-17	Published Jan. 17, 2008
Avocados on garden club ‘menu’	Published Jan. 17, 2008
Fourth Tuesday dinner in Lakehills Jan. 22	Published Jan. 17, 2008
Stock show barbecue set Jan. 26	Published Jan. 17, 2008
Baubles & Boots fundraiser set for Jan. 19	Published Jan. 10, 2008
Chamber taco sale Friday	Published Jan. 10, 2008
Thursday business happenings	Published Jan. 3, 2008
‘Poultry in Motion’	Published Jan. 3, 2008
First call for Grace Lutheran Wild Game Jan. 26	Published Jan. 3, 2008
Have fish, will fry	Published Jan. 3, 2008
Upcoming Trail Ride	Published Dec. 27, 2007
MLBA New Year's Eve dance	Published Dec. 27, 2007
'Ranch in' New Year with Triple H, Silver Spur	Published Dec. 20, 2007
Winter bull riding at Lightning Ranch	Published Dec. 13, 2007
Santa coming to Pipe Creek	Published Dec. 13, 2007
Christmas event roundup	Published Dec. 13, 2007
Project Grad's plans for Christmas & beyond	Published Dec. 6, 2007
BHS garage sale, take two, Saturday	Published Dec. 6, 2007
Chamber events	Published Dec. 6, 2007
Shop & celebrate, Bandera style	Published Dec. 6, 2007
Events from September through November, 2007	Events from June through August, 2007
Events from April & May, 2007	Events from Jan. through March, 2007
Events in the second half of 2006	Events in the first half of 2006
Events from Winter 2005	Events from Fall 2005
Events from Summer 2005	Events from Spring 2005

Get ready to rumble – CCRA rodeo just weeks away Published May 8, 2008    Tie on your cowboy boots tight and smash your Resistols down hard. It’s almost time for the Cowboy Capital Rodeo Association’s 25th annual Memorial Weekend PRCA Dodge Rodeo.     Filled with fun and rock ‘em, sock ‘em rodeo action, the weekend will be held from Friday, May 23, through Sunday, May 25, at Mansfield Park on Highway 16 North. Stace Smith Pro Rodeos will produce the exciting three-day event. The CCRA Memorial Weekend Dodge Rodeo attracts approximately 10,000 visitors and residents each year to the Cowboy Capital of the World. This year’s title sponsor is NAPA Auto Parts. Once again, the rodeo has the honor of being designated as a Dodge Rodeo. Additional sponsors include Crenwelge Dodge and Boerne Dodge Superstore.     Along with the rodeo action, CCRA will also host its first annual “Get Your Cook-On” BBQ Cook-Off on Saturday, May 24,with details to follow.     Performance sponsors include Miracle Ranch Foundation, The Cowboy Store and Wrangler and Jerry & Sons Plumbing. Friday’s performance will be the “Tough Enough To Wear Pink” night. Proceeds from the sale of pink bracelets will benefit the “Relay For Life,” the American Cancer Association fundraiser.     Events and sponsors include bull riding, Teich Properties LLC; calf roping, Ray and Ada Wharton; team roping, United States Army; barrel racing, Aquatech Drilling; steer wrestling, Bandera Paint & Body; bareback riding, Hy-O-Silver; and saddle bronc riding, Wells Fargo Band. Additional sponsorships are still available.     Mutton bustin’, stick horse races and the Dodge Calf Scramble will keep the kids occupied this year. Popular Amanda Payne of the One-Armed Bandit and Company Rodeo will again provide entertainment during the rodeo performances.     A non-profit organization, CCRA supports the youth of Bandera County and promotes the western way of life. In past five years, CCRA has awarded approximately $35,000 in scholarships to area college students. CCRA also proudly supports the Bandera Youth Rodeo Association, Bandera 4-H Program, Bandera Junior Livestock Association, Bandera County EMS and Bandera County Fire Department.     Performances begin at 8 pm each evening. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children ages six through 12. Tickets can be purchased at the gate or at the following locations, Bandera County Convention and Visitors’ Bureau, Bandera County Chamber of Commerce, Super S Foods, The Cowboy Stores or Lawlis Auto Supply.     “Come on out and enjoy this outstanding rodeo,” said an event spokesman.     For more information, contact 830-796-7207 or Visit: www.banderarodeo.com.

Barbecue Cook-off May 17 in Lakehills Published May 8, 2008    The third annual Medina Lake Barbeque Cook-off will be held Saturday, May 17, at the Lakehills Civic Center from 11 am to 10 pm.     The event will feature barbeque cooks competing in brisket, chicken and pork ribs categories. A motorcycle poker run, continuous live music, open car show, wife hauling contest, arts and crafts, raffle and silent auction are slated. Beginning at 2:30 pm, the Shane Howard Band will play the Gazebo Stage.     The wife hauling contest features teams of male and female competitors. One member of the team carries the other over an obstacle course. The team with the fastest time wins the wife's weight in beer.     The Josh Peek Band will play the Pavilion Stage beginning at 6 pm. The raffle drawing will be held at 7 pm.     To enter the cook-off, call 830-612-2700, or visit www.medinalakebarbecuecookoff.com for more information.

Alkek stars to shine Published May 8, 2008    The annual Alkek Elementary School Talent Show is right around the corner.     The Best Little Show in Texas promises to entertain and delight the entire audience. This year, third through fifth graders prepared to “show off” at 7 pm, Friday, May 9, at the Bandera High School Auditorium. Admission is $2 for adults and $1 for BISD students, with younger kids admitted free. Come watch Alkek students "strut their stuff."

And now for something completely different … MLBA expands home tour by Judith Pannebaker BCC Editor Published May 8, 2008 Lovely Medina Lake homes and gardens will be featured during the 2008 Medina Lake Home and Garden Tour, slated for Saturday, June 7. BCC Courtesy Photo    Describing the impetus behind the upcoming fundraiser for the Medina Lake Betterment Association, Inc., Barbara Engel said, “No one in this area had ever hosted a home and garden tour before. I thought it would be interesting to have a really different fundraiser.”     Offering something unique and distinctive has allowed Engel to crack the fundraising “code.” Last year’s inaugural Medina Lake Home and Garden Tour sold out almost immediately – and without advertising.     Recently, the busy owner of Cutaway in Lakehills took a breather and discussed her latest brainchild, the 2008 Medina Lake Home and Garden Tour, set for Saturday, June 7.     “Last year, we sold 135 tickets so we’re expanding the tour to 200 spaces this year,” she said, adding that about half the tickets have already been sold.     The outing costs $25 per person, and includes bus transportation, tours of five homes and gardens and snacks and bottled water. The excursion culminates in a gratis garden luncheon with a complimentary glass of wine, in addition to a plant sale. Programs commemorating the afternoon are also available for purchase. All proceeds benefit the MLBA. Engel quickly pointed out the tour is not “just for women only.”     “About 20 to 25 percent of last year’s tour was made up of men,” she said. “They found the architectural elements of the houses particularly interesting.”     Describing the excursion, Engel said, “Tickets may be purchased for buses leaving the Lakehills Civic Center at either 8:30 am or 9:30 am. Each bus will have a guide and will visit all the homes before returning to our house for an al fresco luncheon.”     The “our house” to which she referred belongs to her and her husband, former attorney – and well-known gumbo aficionado – Robert Caswell. The Caswell-Engel’s gracious home is located just off FM 1283 behind Engel’s hair styling salon and boutique.     “Everyone enjoyed last year’s luncheon and we’re making this year’s just as special,” she said. Tables will be set up throughout the gardens on the couple’s spacious three and a half acre homestead. Sophisticated summery luncheon fare will include a variety of salads and breads, fruit and deviled eggs, as well as an array of delectable desserts.     After the luncheon, tour participants will be able to browse – and presumably purchase – plants offered for sale on the grounds.     This year’s tour will include a restored 1920s cottage on Medina Lake, as well as several new homes in the upscale subdivision, Dancing Bear. “We will also tour the clubhouse at Dancing Bear,” Engel revealed, touting its decorative elements and fantastic views.     “This year, we chose homes that really popped,” she emphasized. “These home are indicative of their owners’ personalities – not the amount of money spent on them. This tour will feature very unique houses, not necessarily huge ones owned by millionaires.” Engel reiterated, “Money was not the chief consideration when we selected these particular homes.”     She also noted that this year’s collection would include gardens with outstanding landscaping and exceptional water features. “I guarantee people will definitely come away with ideas they can use in their own homes and gardens,” she said. Owners will take tour participants through their respective homes. In addition, docents will be stationed in various rooms. Describing last year’s homeowners as collectively “congenial and gregarious,” Caswell commented, “They took time to answer everyone’s questions.” He promised homeowners would be equally as accommodating this year. “We wouldn’t have included their homes on the tour if the owners hadn’t been wonderful people.”     Caswell added, “We have enough homes to feature on tours for the next 20 years.”     Which means that MLBA will continue to benefit from the proceeds. “Last year, we raised $4,600 for the MLBA from the tour and program and plant sales,” Engel said.     Formed in 1969, the MLBA raised enough funds to construct the Lakehills Civic Center just two years later. The association’s volunteers work to improve the Medina Lake area by providing a variety of social, recreational and educational activities for the residents – regardless of age.     The nonprofit MLBA receives no tax dollars and relies on fundraisers such as the Medina Lake Cajun Festival and the Medina Lake Home and Garden Tour to continue its good works. Proceeds from the home tour will be used for the civic center building fund.     The good times continue after the tour’s completion. “At the luncheon last year, everyone was still very upbeat about the houses,” remarked Caswell. “It seemed as though they didn’t want the tour to end.”     Geneveive Modarelli will serve as chairman of the 2009 fundraising event.     As of now, only a little over 100 tickets remain for the 2008 Medina Lake Home and Garden Tour, slated for Saturday, June 7. Tickets cost $25 and are available at Cutaway, 9650 FM 1283.     For information, call 830-751-3130, 830-751-2727 or 830-612-2527.

PCPC sale Saturday Published May 1, 2008    The Little Rock Church – aka the Pipe Creek Presbyterian Church on Highway 16 South – will hold its annual rummage sale from 8 am until 4 pm, Saturday, May 3.     The always-anticipated event will also include tables filled with baked goods, as well as a great selection of plants. Everyone is advised to be there early for the best bargains.

SNAP trail ride set for May 2-4 Published May 1, 2008    The seventh annual Spring Benefit Trail Ride for the Hill Country State Natural Area will be held Friday, May 2, through Sunday, May 4, at the natural area on FM 1077. Proceeds from the ride will benefit HCSNA.     Early arrivals can register Friday afternoon. The Saturday ride-out begins at 12:45 pm with a potluck dinner – with barbecue brisket and sausage provided – at 7 pm.     Sunday's ride-out is at 9 am and the checkout is scheduled for 2 pm.     Fee schedule is $20 for adults; $15, children ages 13 to 17; and children under 12 are free. Other things to remember about the SNAP fundraising trail ride include:     • all meals are “on your own” except for the potluck. Please remember to bring a side dish to this communal feast.     • bring plenty of drinking water and ice.     • non-potable water will be available for horses.     • RV hook-ups not available.     • generators are allowed only in designated areas.     • countywide burn ban remains in effect, so no fires are allowed.     For more information, call Carey Reed at 830-688-1533 or Linda James at 830-796-4075 or Bobby Reynolds at 830-393-7037. On the weekend of the ride, all the park office at 830-796-4413.     In addition, a flyer for the event is available at www.hcsnap.org.

Parish festival Sunday Published May 1, 2008    The St. Stanislaus Parish Festival will be held Sunday, May 4, at the Mansfield Park Show Barn from 11 am to 4 pm.     Barbecue will be served from 11 am to 2 pm. Adult plates are $7 and children's plates are $3.50 and includes drink and dessert. Drive through pickup is available.     A hot sauce and pico de gallo competition are part of the event.     Music by Ricochet and DJ will fill the afternoon along with Wild Bill the storyteller from 12:30 pm to 1 pm, Kevin Fitzpatrick's rope tricks from 1 to 1:30 pm, and Dave King's magic show from 2 to 2:30 pm.     Other offerings include a plant booth, games, raffle and an auction.

Trail ride to benefit rescued horses Special to the Courier Published April 24, 2008    Miracle Ranch Foundation and Meadow Haven Horse Sanctuary have teamed up to host a charity trail ride Saturday, May 3, at the Hill Country State Natural Area.     Sign up for Saturday’s guided trail ride and Sunday’s “on your own” ride begins at 9 am, on May 3. A barbecue lunch will be provided on Saturday.     Cost for Saturday’s ride and lunch is $30 for adults and $10 for children. Day fees for the natural area have been waved for the fundraiser. A rain date has been set for the following Saturday, May 10.     Trail ride participants are asked to supply their own camping equipment, lawn chairs, ice chests and, of course, horses. “Be ready for a great time,” advised Vicky Adams of Miracle Ranch Foundation, adding, “We would also like for people attending to bring something for the silent auction. Auction items do not need to be horse related.”     Both Miracle Ranch Foundation and Meadow Haven Horse Sanctuary are 501(c)3 non-profit organizations, so all donations are tax deductible.     Miracle Ranch Foundation is a new facility utilizing rescued horses for youth education programs and equine-assisted psychotherapy programs scheduled to begin by May 2009. These programs will be based on the models developed by the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association.     Miracle Ranch Foundation’s Sandra Burger and Vicki Adams are EAGALA-certified equine specialists.     As an established horse rescue facility, Meadow Haven has rescued over 300 horses since its inception three years ago. It relies solely on donations to cover operating expenses.     For more information on the fundraising trail ride, contact Adams at 830-522-0362, or Sandra Burger at 830-796-0500.

New park headquarters office to open Published April 24, 2008    The grand opening of a new park office at the Hill Country State Natural Area will be celebrated with a ribbon cutting – featuring plenty of horses – beginning at 2 pm, Saturday, May 3.     Entry fees to the park will be waived for the occasion.     The event will also honor Gay Guillott, who donated her former realty office to the park. The building is now in place, furnished and ready to be shown off. An open house will be held noon to 4 pm with the official ribbon cutting ceremony slated for 2 pm.     The open house will feature light refreshments and western entertainment. In addition, mini-interpretive tours highlighting native plants will be conducted around the headquarters.     For equine enthusiasts, at least two trail rides will be held at the park that day. The state natural area is located on FM 1077. Telephone number is 830-796-4413.     Although entrance to the park is free on May 3, camping fees are not waived.

Thespians hit boards Published April 24, 2008    Bandera Riverside Players, back, Harvey Raab, Pat Cole, Dorothy Walker and Jason Childers; and, front, Sylvia Kelley, Johnette Brown and Luitgard Cornelison donned costumes for the upcoming presentation of "Virtue is its Own Reward or All That Glitters May Be Gold."     Describing the play as "tongue-in-cheek funny, but performed in a dramatic manner," the troupe's founder and artistic director Salle Ellis invited everyone to the 7 pm opening performance, Saturday, April 26, at the Silver Sage Corral Senior Activity Center. A 3 pm matinee performance will be held Sunday.     For more information, call the Silver Sage at 830-796-4969.

Cowboy church rummage sale Saturday Published April 24, 2008    The Western Heritage Cowboy Church will host a giant rummage sale in the big red barn on 7146 FM 1283 just south of Bump Gate Road, Saturday, April 26, 8 am to 4 pm.     They'll have clothes, furniture, knick knacks and dishes available for sale. Proceeds benefit the tent fund.

Benefit trail ride May 3 Published April 24, 2008    Miracle Ranch Foundation and Meadow Haven Horse Sanctuary are teaming up to host a charity trail ride Saturday, May 3, at the Hill Country State Natural Area.     The weekend trail ride will be a guided ride.     Sign up is at 9 am Saturday. A barbecue lunch will be provided Saturday.     Sunday will have an “on your own” ride.     The cost for the ride and lunch will be $30 per adult and $10 for children.     Bring your camping equipment, lawn chairs, ice chests, horses and be ready for a great time!     “We would also like for people that attend to bring something for the silent auction,” said Vicki Adams. “Auction items do not need to be horse related. The day fees for the park will be waved.”     For more information contact Vicki Adams at 830-522-0362, or Sandra Burger at 830-796-0500.     Miracle Ranch Foundation is a new facility utilizing rescued horses for youth education programs and equine assisted psychotherapy programs to be implemented no later than May of 2009. These programs will be based on the EAGALA model. Sandra Burger and Vicki Adams are EAGALA certified Equine Specialists.     Meadow Haven is an established horse rescue facility that has been in operation for over three years, and has rescued over 300 horses. This operation relies solely on donations for it’s operating expenses.     Both rescue facilities are 501(c)3 non-profit organizations.     Rain out date will be May 10.

Methodists to hold annual auctions Published April 24, 2008    The Bandera United Methodist Church will host their annual auction from 10 am to 2:30 pm, Saturday, May 3, at their fellowship hall and pavilion, located at the intersection of 11th and Hackberry streets.     The event will also feature a craft and rummage sale, as well as concessions.     The silent auction begins at 10 am and continues until 2 pm. The live auction starts at 12:30 pm and ends at 2:30 pm.

ACS Relay For Life scheduled for April 26-27 Published April 17, 2008    The committee for the Relay For Life of Bandera County is preparing for the upcoming fundraising event, scheduled from 7 pm, Saturday, April 26 through 7 am, Sunday, April 27, at the Bandera High School Stadium.     According to a spokesman, “We will be walking, running and even wheeling in wheelchairs around the stadium track for 12 hours. We all will be sharing our love, caring and remembrance for anyone who has ever heard those terrible words, ‘You have cancer’.” This is the fourth year for the event in Bandera County and everyone is invited to participate in the relay.     “There will be some crying, some missing of our loved ones but, most of all, we will be sharing our love and understanding the fight against cancer,” the spokesman continued. “While we participate in the relay, please know that we also experience a lot of laughter, smiles, happiness and fun.”     According to participants, the Relay For Life leaves everyone with a good feeling. For one night, everyone comes together to help others. “Whether it is the remembrance, the hugs, the caring minutes or just the knowledge that you helped someone get through one night, we are here to relay for you,” the spokesman added.     Several organizations have been formed to help people in their times of need.     Under the auspices of the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, the Medina Cancer Support Group assists Bandera County residents. The group meets at 7 pm Mondays at the Medina Community Library, 13948 Highway 16 North. For more information, call Bob Gladden at 830-589-7664.     In addition, for help 24 hours a day, the American Cancer Society (ACS) can be contacted at www.cancer.org, or at 1-800-ACS-2345.     “Come help continue the fight until there is a cure! When a relay team member comes to you and asks for a donation, open up your wallets to help them. The goal this year is $60,000 , and with your support, we will reach that goal,” the spokesman said.     In addition, names of cancer survivors can be added to a list of Bandera County Survivors, who will be honored during the Luminaria ceremony at the relay.     To join or assemble a relay team, call Rose Desmuke at 830-796-3108. For general relay information, contact Relay For Life Chairman Lisa Warden, at 830-634-2507, or Chairman Monica Wilson at mwilson@banderaisd.net.     For Cancer Survivor information, call Mary Kling, 830-796-3837. For sponsorship information, call Beanie Butler, 830-510-4418.

Getting the goat for Bandera County Boys & Girls Club by Judith Pannebaker BCC Editor Published April 17, 2008    Bandera Real Estate will present “the first ever” – for Bandera, at least – Cabrito Cook-off, an international goat spectacular to benefit the Bandera County Boys and Girls Club.     The inaugural cook-off takes place Saturday, April 19, at the 11th Street Historic District, and winners will receive $500 in added money cash prizes. Contest categories include cabrito, brisket, chicken and pork spare ribs. In addition, there will be prizes for the side dishes, “cook’s choice” and butter beans. To be eligible for the grand championship prize, however, cabrito must be on the menu.     According to Linda Stevens, owner of Bandera Real Estate, the cook-off was initiated to provide revenue and publicity for the Boys and Girls Club.     “We also want to demonstrate Bandera Real Estate’s commitment to the local business community to facilitate an event that will draw visitors – both new and old – into Bandera for wholesome family entertainment,” Stevens said. She felt that locating the events as close to downtown as possible would also benefit local merchants and create a “ripple effect” for each dollar spent in the city.     “Everyone at Bandera Real Estate has put a great deal of time and effort toward our ultimate goal of becoming a positive force for our city and county – both in the everyday practice of our profession and in service to the community,” Stevens continued.     Assisting her with the cabrito cook-off are Rick Anderson, Diane Christian and Shelia Click.     In March, Bandera City Council acquiesced to Stevens’ request to close 11th Street between Cedar and Cypress streets for the event, beginning at 6 pm, Friday, April 18, through Saturday, April 19.     In addition, a portion of the municipal parking lot at the intersection of 11th and Cedar streets will be blocked off to accommodate the large cookers used for the competition.     “Serious cookers require more space than the chili cook-off,” Stevens said, adding no vehicles would be allowed to park in the lot overnight – just the cookers.     A plethora of early entries indicate the smell of savory cabrito will waft throughout 11th Street and environs that weekend. “Since this is our first venture, we thought it would be a small undertaking, but we’ve gotten a good response,” Stevens said. “Apparently a lot of people have (memories) of cooking cabrito, so we may need more space than originally anticipated.”     Also included in the revelry will be a goatee contest, a goat dressing contest and parade and even a goat-calling contest. “Maybe in the future, we’ll do a goat roping,” Stevens said.     She said cabrito cook-off winners would be announced Saturday between 4 pm and 5 pm.     James McGroarty, owner of the 11th Street Cowboy Bar, indicated the cook-off would augment his watering hole’s annual Spring Fling, which will feature the first annual Western Swing Dance-Off. “We expect about 1,100 people that weekend,” McGroarty said. “We wanted to create another event for the city to augment ‘Celebrate Bandera!’ and others like it.”

Annual Methodist auction set May 3 Published April 17, 2008    The Bandera United United Methodist Church will host their annual auction Saturday, May 3, from 10 am to 2 pm at their fellowship hall and pavilion, 11th Street and Hackberry.     The event will offer a craft and rummage sale and concessions.     The silent auction begins at 10 am and continues until 2 pm. The live auction starts at 12:30 pm and continues until 2:30 pm.

PCCS Son Shine Festival & Auction serves as major fundraiser Published April 17, 2008    All weather reports point to the sun shinin’ on the Son Shine Music Festival and Auctions slated for Saturday, April 19, at Mansfield Park on Highway 16 North.     Gates open at 4 pm for the Pipe Creek Christian School’s annual fundraiser. Admission to the event is free, but donations will be accepted.     Local businesses and individuals have anted up great items – valued collectively at more than $35,000 – for the school’s always anticipated live and silent auctions.     Items for the live auction, scheduled to start promptly at 6:30 pm. include:     • two children’s four-wheelers – including safety gear – from Alamo Cycle Plex of San Antonio.     • gun cabinet, Texas Accents furniture.     • garden gate with “God Bless This Garden” across the top, Country Accents Antiques.     • custom made 15-foot electric gate, valued at over $6,000, Jemco Construction and Hill Country Enterprise. The donation includes installation.     • one full week of summer camp, valued at over $750, Medina’s Deer Creek Camp.     • beautiful hand-painted toy box filled with educational toys by Abia Busby, with help from the students at Pipe Creek Christian School – which makes the value of this wonderful item “priceless.”     • Handmade sterling silver jewelry pieces by the well known Lopez Brothers.     • rare white peacock donated by Steve and Camille Innes.     • beautiful queen-size hand-made quilt.     The unique items included in the silent auction will enable bidders to pick up great gifts for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, upcoming graduation or just something special for themselves. In addition, each class at PCCS has prepared special gift baskets offered for sale at the event. There will also be a large “cash and carry” area filled with wonderful spring plants guaranteed to add color to local gardens and help a good cause at the same time.     This fun-filled, family event will also include a supervised children’s entertainment and play area with a Moon Bounce, fun games, prizes and inter-active displays such as Hills of Heaven Christian Ministries ponies and chats with Bandera’s own “Gino.”. Kiolabassa sausage and chopped barbecue dinners, which include potato salad, beans and iced tea, cost $6 for adults and $4 for children. Desserts, cold drinks and chips will also be available.     At 4:30 pm, Chris Story & Southern Edge Band begin entertaining. Although the band specializes in elegant and sophisticated background and dance music, they also offer rock and country classics, contemporary Top 40 Country, oldies, classics, show tunes and popular Christian tunes.     Proceeds from the annual fundraiser will be used to defray costs of the Pipe Creek Christian School tuition. The school offers a classic education with a Christian view at an affordable price.     PCCS administrators, staff and teachers invite the entire community to enjoy the fun. “We want to share some great Christian music with Bandera and get the word out about the availability of Christian education in Bandera County,” said Pipe Creek Christian School Board President Ken Finley.     For more information about the event, contact the Pipe Creek Christian School at 830-510-6131.

St. Christopher's spring rummage sale Published April 17, 2008    St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church is offering a wide variety of goods, including clothes, accessories, furniture, appliances, books, baby items and more, at its spring rummage sale Friday, April 18, and Saturday, April 19.     All are invited to 403 State Highway 173 North, next door to Grace Lutheran Church, for good deals galore from 7 am to 3 pm. Buyers can choose one of four different aid organizations as beneficiaries of their purchase.     For more information, call Liz Sigler at 830-688-0600.

‘Come & git it’ – MLVFD BBQ Published April 10, 2008    The Medina Lake Volunteer Fire will sponsor an old-fashioned barbecue – with all the fixings – beginning at 11 am, Saturday, April 26.     Plates are $6.50 for adults and $3.50 for children. The good times will also include a silent auction and a vehicle extrication demo by the firefighters.     Raffle prizes include a 48” Gas Grill with Oven, a Wii Bundle, a 40GB Zune MP3 Player and a Stevens .243 Bolt Action Rifle (no scope). Raffle tickets are $1 each or six tickets for $5, with the drawing set for 4 pm. The silent auction is open from 11am through 2 pm.     All proceeds benefit the MLVFD.     For more information, contact President Mike Tagaras at 830-751-2525 or mlvfdpres@gmail.com.

BCRW serve sandwiches & salads for scholarships Published April 3, 2008    To benefit the organization’s scholarship fund, the Bandera County Republican Women will host a fundraiser from 11:30 am to 1 pm, Friday, April 11, at the Silver Sage Corral Senior Activity Center, 803 Buck Creek Boulevard.     An all-you-can-eat groaning board of salads and sandwiches – prepared by BCRW members – costs just $10. Dine in or take out plates are available, and desserts will be by donation.     Proceeds from the fundraising luncheon will be used for scholarships for Bandera County graduating seniors.     “The public is invited to join us for lunch and help boost our scholarship fund,” said a BCRW spokesman.     In a related matter, the club will offer two $1,000 scholarships to the graduating classes of 2008. All high school seniors – regardless of gender – residing in Bandera County are eligible to apply.     Applications can be obtained at high school counselors’ offices. Home-schooled students should contact BCRW Scholarship Chairman Lenna Newman at 830-796-4452 or 830-522-0555 for an application.     Deadline to apply for the scholarship is Monday, April 21.

LH Legion sets ‘Fiesta’ April 12 Published April 3, 2008    Members of American Legion Post 410 will host their second annual “Fiesta” Saturday, April 12, at the post home, 26th Street and Park Road 37 in Lakehills.     A deep fried turkey dinner will be served from noon to 3:30 pm. Plates, which cost $7 for adults and $3 for children, include sides, dessert and coffee or tea. Dine in or take out will be available.     The Lakehills Legion’s now famous horse racing game will operate between 11 am to 4 pm. The game involves toys horses on a track; called bingo numbers determine how the horses moved. Prizes will be awarded to winners.     A 6 pm live auction will feature a custom designed mirror wall hanging by David Turner. DJ Robert Griego of Sounds Unlimited will provide music from 4 pm until 8 pm.     In addition, vendors will offer a variety of merchandise on the post grounds. For vendors who wish to participate a 10-foot by 10-foot space costs $20.     For more information, call 830-612-2343 or 830-510-4153.

Hypnotism show April 3 Published April 3, 2008    The Bandera High School Senior Class will sponsor “The Tim Castleman Comedy Hypnotism Show” Thursday, April 3.     This hour long show is jam-packed with fascinating feats of hypnotism and fun including audience participation and non-stop laughs! The show will start at 7 pm in the Bandera High School Auditorium. Tickets are $5 per person with all proceeds benefiting the Senior Class.

Bandera Home & Landscape Show set April 12 Published April 3, 2008    The Bandera County Extension Office and Bandera County River Authority and Groundwater District invite the public to attend our very own Home & Landscape Show at Mansfield Park, Highway 16, Saturday, April 12.     Educational booths offering information on every aspect of owning a home or land in Bandera County will be on exhibit. Water conservation, recycling, oak wilt, organic gardening, septic system management, water testing, rainwater harvesting and xeriscaping are just a few of the presentations being planned. Several local businesses will have booths showing the latest in water and energy conserving products.     Free water sample kits, door prizes, complimentary handouts and a youth coloring contest with great prizes will be offered. There is no charge for this event and it will run from 10 am to 4 pm.     “This is your opportunity to come to one place and learn about all sorts of ways to be a better steward of our land, water, plants and air,” said Warren Thigpen, Bandera County Extension Agent.     The Bandera County Extension Office booth, in conjunction with LCRA, will be giving away bare root shade trees to the first 200 people (one per household) who stop by. These trees are 8 to 10 inches tall and are varieties that will do well in Bandera County.     Anyone interested in having a booth at the Show is encouraged to call the Extension Office at 830-796-7755 or BCRAGD at 830-796-7260 for more information.

SonShine Music Festival set for April 19 Published April 3, 2008 Pipe Creek Christian School students, Claire Busby, Luke Prater and Chloe Busby, show off the two 4-wheelers featured in the live auction at the school’s annual SonShine Music Festival and Fundraiser on Saturday, April 19, at Mansfield Park.    The Pipe Creek Christian School will hold its annual SonShine Music Festival and Fundraiser, beginning at 4 pm, Saturday, April 19, at Mansfield Park on Highway 16 North.     A live auction featuring two 4-wheelers, donated by Alamo Cycle Plex of San Antonio, will begin at 6:30 pm. Proceeds from both the live and silent auctions will benefit the educational programs offered at the Christian school.     Music by Chris Story and the Southern Edge Band will begin at 4:30 pm.     A plate supper will be available for $6.     “We look forward to bringing out Bandera county residents for a fun-filled, family time with Christian music, games and food,” said an event spokesman.

Hermann fun day set for Sunday Published April 3, 2008    The Hermann Sons will host an afternoon of food and fun from 2 pm to 5 pm, Sunday, April 6, at the Lakehills Civic Center, Park Road 37.     Community youth are invited to the annual Youth Appreciation Fun Day, said a spokesman for the Bandera County Hermann Sons lodge.     The event will feature balloons, face painting and games, among other activities. In addition, youth can come for the entire three hours or just part of the time.     Participants are asked to RSVP to Eileen and Paul Heath, 830-612-2436, or Tamra Krahn, 830-751-3525. This will allow the Hermann Sons to know how much food to prepare.

8th annual Lakehills UMC Fish Fry, auction, games and more! Published March 27, 2008    It's time for the Lakehills United Methodist Church Annual Fish Fry. The eighth annual event is Saturday, March 29, and includes an auction, games and plenty of fried catfish to serve.     There's no charge to come into the grounds at the Lakehills Civic Center.     Attendees can bid in the auction or listen to the great live music. There's also a health fair and games for the kiddos. All of the activities are free.     Plates consist of the fish, of course, but also have beans, coleslaw and fries.     Also included is a glass of fresh ice tea. Tickets for the plates are $6.50 for adults and $3 for kids.     Desserts will be available for an extra charge.     Hours are 11 am to 4 pm.

Many auction items available at Lakehills UMC Fish Fry Published March 20, 2008    The Lakehills United Methodist Church has received many items for the auction that will take place during the church’s fundraising Eighth Annual Lakehills Fish Fry Saturday, March 29, at the Lakehills Civic Center, Park Road 37.     Some of the items available include two Spurs tickets in 22nd row just off of half-court April 1 - Spurs vs. Golden State; one-week, two-week or one-month memberships to Bandera Fitness; a round of golf for two at the Flying L; a one-time residential lawn mow and trim; one-month membership to Medina Lake Fitness; a $50 savings bond; a two-night stay in a cabin at Thousand Trails; a Kenmore washer and dryer; a 16-inch silver diamond necklace, two tickets to anywhere Southwest Airlines flies; and a 1996 Cadillac.     There’s no charge to come in and bid in the auction or listen to the great live music. There’s also a health fair and games for the children. All of the activities are free. The only charge is for the food. Plates consist of the fish, of course, but also have beans, coleslaw and fries. Also included is a glass of fresh ice tea. Tickets for the plates are $6.50 for adults and $3 for kids if purchased at the event. Advance tickets will be on sale each Sunday in March at the church between services. If purchased in advance, tickets will cost 50 cents less per plate. Desserts will be available for an extra charge.     The congregation invites all to come to the Lakehills Civic Center and join them for some great food and a great time, and who knows, you might even find something you can’t live without at the auction!

Kiwanis Club cooks up pancake fundraiser Published March 20, 2008    The Kiwanis Club of Bandera County will sponsor an “All You Care to Eat” Pancake Breakfast from 8 am until noon, Saturday, March 29, at the Silver Sage Corral Senior Activity Center, 803 Buck Creek Boulevard.     Tickets are $6 each with children 10 and under eating for $3. Tickets may be purchased from any Kiwanis Club member and will be available at the door.     In addition to flipping pancakes, members of the Kiwanis Club will also sponsor a silent auction during the event. “You can eat and browse and bid on many gifts and bargains at the same time,” said a club spokesman.     Proceeds from this fundraiser are earmarked for projects to help children, youth scholarships and other activities, such as constructing ramps for low income and physically challenged individuals.     The theme for Kiwanis International is “ Serving the Children of the World,” and the local club continues to work to make Bandera County an even better place to live. The group currently sponsors Key Club for high school students and the Builders Club for students in middle school.      In addition, club members recently sponsored an educational and community awareness poster contest for students in the Bandera Independent School District. The theme of the poster contest was “Keep Our Highways Clean.”     "Come with a hearty appetite and enjoy a tasty breakfast while you visit with friends, knowing that you are supporting a worthy cause,” the spokesman continued.     To learn more about the Kiwanis Club of Bandera County, call 830-510-4649 or 210-827-4896.

'Par for the Horse' golf tourney Published March 20, 2008    Bandera’s Flying L Guest Ranch will host fundraising golf tournament for Miracle Ranch Foundation Saturday, March 22.     Shotgun start is at noon, and prizes will be awarded to winners of several events.     Entry fees are $250 for a four-man team or $75 per player. In addition, Miracle Ranch Foundation has three types of sponsorship packages available.     To become a sponsor or register for the event, contact Jake Boren at 830-522-0510, or visit www.miracleranchfoundation.com.     Miracle Ranch Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization. All proceeds from the golf tournament will be used to implement youth education programs, care for program horses and for equine rescue efforts.

Cowboy fun at Frontier Times Published March 20, 2008    Bandera’s Frontier Times Museum, 510 13th Street, will host “Hats off to the American Cowboy” beginning at 4 pm, Saturday, March 22.     The event includes authentic chuck wagon coffee around a campfire and a lesson in “cowboy-ology” through music and poetry. Steve Smith will present cowboy poetry and musician, poet and author Don Hedgpeth will provide his unique perspective.     For more information, call 830-796-3864 or visit www.frontiertimesmuseum.com.

Prep underway for ‘Glitter’ Published March 13, 2008 Staff Photo by David Arny    Members of the Bandera Riverside Players theater group met to go over their lines for the upcoming production of “Virtue is its Own Reward or All That Glitters May Be Gold,” opening Saturday, April 26, at the Silver Sage Activity Center. The troupe’s artistic director Salle Ellis describes the play as “tongue-in-cheek funny, but performed in a dramatic manner.”     The Riverside Players most recent production, “Love Letters,” as well as their fall presentation of “Kate and the Writer” and the Christmas season performance of “Santa’s Magic Time Machine” have established the homegrown theatrical company as a talented band of thespians adept at captivating local audiences.

Meet the horse Published March 13, 2008    Introducing the Horse, an interesting and informative horsemanship seminar will be offered Thursday, March 20, and again Friday, March 21, at Bunkhouse Leather, 1207 Cedar Street.     A $20 fee will cover the basics of how to handle a horse, including tack, feed, riding tips and much more. The event begins at 2 pm and concludes at 3:30 pm. Ages eight and up are welcome. For more information, call Jacqui Jackson at 830-688-6815.

CCRA announces BBQ Cook-off Published March 6, 2008    The Cowboy Capital Rodeo Association will sponsor its first annual BBQ Cook Off, during May’s Memorial Day weekend.     The cook-off will take place, Friday, May 23, and Saturday, May 24, with awards presented during Saturday’s rodeo performance.     For more information, contact the Cowboy Capital Rodeo Association at 830-796-7207 or www.banderarodeo.com.

Turkey Shoot March 15 Published March 6, 2008    The Castle Lake Ranch Volunteer Fire Department will host a benefit turkey shoot for the Bandera American Legion Post Saturday, March 15.     The shoot will be at the firehouse on Bear Springs Road and will begin at 10 am.

Last candidate forum Friday Published Feb. 28, 2008    The Boys and Girls Club of Bandera County invite voters to attend a public meeting of local political candidates at the Margaret Alkek Pavillion, 715 Maple Street, Friday, Feb. 29, from 6 until 7 pm. The event will be catered by Brick’s River Café and Touch of Class Catering.     For more information, call 830-796-8109.

‘Love Letters’ at Silver Sage Corral Saturday Published Feb. 21, 2008 "Love Letters," an evocative play that centers around a couple's lifelong correspondence will be presented Saturday, Feb. 23, at the Silver Sage Corral Senior Activity Center, 803 Buck Creek Boulevard. Salle Ellis and Ray Martel star in the two-person play. Martel recently appeared in "Rumors" with the Boerne Community Players. Prior to the play, a wine and cheese reception will be held, beginning at 7:30 pm. Tickets to the fundraiser are $25 per person, with proceeds earmarked for the Corral's Meals on Wheels program. For reservations, call 830-796-4969.    In conjunction with the Silver Sage Corral Community Center, the Bandera Riverside Players will present a fundraising performance of “Love Letters.”     The performance will take place at 7:30 pm, Saturday, Feb. 23, at the Silver Sage Corral, 803 Buck Creek Boulevard.     “Love Letters,” a 1989 critically acclaimed theater piece, focuses on the special relationship between a man and a woman. The play spans the couple’s lives from childhood to their later years. Written by AR Gurney, “Love Letters” will be performed by Ray Martel and Salle Ellis. Producer is Harvey Raab and the production is directed by Salle Ellis.     Tickets are $25 and are available at the Silver Sage Corral. Complimentary wine and cheese will be served prior to the performance.     “Since there is limited seating, everyone is advised to purchase tickets early,” said a spokesman for the theater group. Proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit the Meals on Wheels program at the Corral.     For more information, contact Pat Sill at 830-460-4138.

Team penning event Saturday Published Feb. 21, 2008    The Western Heritage Cowboy Church will host a team penning clinic and competition at the BR Lightning Ranch Saturday, Feb. 23.     For cowboys and cowgirls without experience, the clinic begins at 8 am. For the newly indoctrinated and those who've penned before, the competition begins at 10 am.     Entry is $20 per rider, per team. First place receives a buckle, second place a breast collar and third place a head stall.     There will also be a chicken roping contest, with an entry fee of $3. This competition is strictly for fun,     The BR Lightning Ranch also offers a concession stand. Since this is a family-friendly event, there will be no alcohol.     The ranch is located 0.7 miles south of the intersection of FM 1283 and Highway 16 in Pipe Creek.     Call John Shults at 210-365-5953 for early registration, and the WHCC at 830-535-6575 for more information.

Chicken supper Tuesday, Feb. 26 Published Feb. 21, 2008    The Lakehills American Legion Auxiliary will host their fourth Tuesday supper Feb. 26 at the post home, 26th Street, Lakehills, beginning at 5:30 pm. Chicken and dumplings and baked chicken tetrazini is on the menu. The $6.75 plates will also include green beans, salad, beverage and dessert.

Pop’s Place chili cook-off this Saturday Published Feb. 21, 2008    Pop’s Place will hold a chili cook-off to benefit CCPAL this Saturday, Feb. 23, with the band and chili judging beginning at 3 p.m. Pop’s Place is located at 1620 Alamo Beach Road, off FM 1283 in Pipe Creek.     The three chili categories will include chili, beans and brisket, with judging at 3 pm, 4 pm and 6 pm. A live auction will follow at 6 p.m. Items for the auction will be accepted right up to the time the auction begins. Contestants and visitors are expected from around the Hill Country and from San Antonio.     Pets will be available for adoption.     Come and enjoy the great food, music and auction—and pick out a pet as a life-long companion to complete your life. The event will end at 12:30 am on Sunday, Feb. 24.

‘Chili Queens’ cook up a storm for Frontier Times Published Feb. 21, 2008 Past winners of the world-famous Terlingua Chili Cook-Off, from left, include Cindy Reed Wilkins of Houston, 1992; Pat Pilcheck, Bluffton, 2002; current champ Debbie Ashman, Bastrop; Honey Jones, Canyon Lake, 2002; and Margaret Nadeau, Boerne, 2005. Staff Photo by David Arny    Bandera’s Frontier Times Museum, 510 13th Street, shared the largesse from the Chili Appreciation Society International’s (CASI) second annual chili cook-off, held at the Pioneer RV Park Saturday, Feb. 9.     Frontier Times Manager Jane Graham recently thanked CASI members for their efforts and said $500 was raised by the nonprofit organization on behalf of the museum.     According to the group’s website, The Chili Appreciation Society International, Inc. “promotes chili and raises money for charity.” Group members participate in over 500 chili cook offs per year and raise over $1,000,000 annually for local charities.     Each year, on the first Saturday of November, CASI holds what it describes as “the ultimate celebration of chili” at Rancho CASI de los Chisos in Terlingua, near Big Bend National Park. The four-day celebration begins on Wednesday prior to the big weekend, which culminates on Saturday with the Terlingua International Chili Championship© – “a Texas tradition of epic proportion.”     Rancho CASI is located on the north side of Highway 170, 11 miles west of Study Butte and seven miles east of Lajitas.     To learn more about this merry band of “red hot” philanthropic epicureans, visit www.chili.org.

Project Graduation Prom Fashion Show March 30 Published Feb. 21, 2008    Project Graduation will host a Prom Fashion Show Sunday, March 30, beginning at 2 pm, at the Silver Sage Corral Senior Activity Center, 803 Buck Creek Boulevard. Doors will open at 1 pm, and the show will begin at 2 pm.       Available vendors include retail stores, florists, make-up consultants and photographers for on-site photography. Refreshments will also be available. In addition, vendors will provide door prizes.       Admission is $7 with proceeds to benefit 2008 Project Graduation.

Triple H benefits from Massacre Published Feb. 14, 2008    The Alamo City Gypsy Motorcycle Club will host the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre Friday, Feb. 15, through Sunday, Feb. 17, at the Kendall County Fairgrounds.     A portion of the proceeds from the 31st annual event will benefit the Triple H Equitherapy Center in Pipe Creek.     Founded in 1975, The Alamo City Chapter of Gypsy Motorcycle Club International held the first St. Valentine’s Day Massacre Rally in 1976, and turned the event into a charity fundraiser by its third year.     In 2002, the Alamo City Gypsies became a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with their St. Valentine’s Day Massacre Foundation.     A nonprofit organization, Triple H improves the lives of physically and emotionally impaired children and adults through the therapeutic benefits of the unique interaction between horse and man. Triple H currently provides equitherapy for over 160 disabled riders each year with the support of over 150 volunteers and 21 horses.     The Alamo City Gypsy Motorcycle Club donate the proceeds from the rally toward the Triple H Melissa Roach Scholarship Fund and the Hero Rider Sponsorship Program, which underwrite therapy for disabled riders in financial need.     Everyone is invited to the Kendall County Fairgrounds this weekend to help the Alamo City Gypsy Motorcycle Club assist disabled children.     The rally begins at 8 am on Friday for pre-registered participants and noon for others. Registration opens again at 8 am on Saturday and both days culminate with music and dancing until 1 am. Registration includes free on-site camping with hot showers available. On Sunday, Feb. 17, non-denominational church services will begin at 8 am. The rally closes at noon.     For additional information on the rally, contact 210-323-8099 or www.massacrerally.com.     For more information on the equine-assisted therapy programs at Triple H Equitherapy Center, contact 830-510-9515 or email at hhhdream@aol.com.

Pasta Up! CCPAL’s annual Sweetheart Spaghetti Dinner set Published Feb. 14, 2008 Like Lady and the Tramp, Doc the Newshound can’t wait for his fair share of pasta during CCPAL’s Sweetheart Spaghetti Dinner, set for Saturday, Feb. 16, at the Silver Sage Corral.    The Cowboy Capital Pet Assistance League’s fourth annual Sweetheart Spaghetti Dinner is set for 5:30 pm to 9 pm, Saturday, Feb. 16, at the Silver Sage Corral Senior Activity Center, 803 Buck Creek Boulevard.     Bandera County Precinct 2 Commissioner Bobby Harris and his cookin’ crew will again provide a great pasta meal with all the trimmin’s.     Tickets are available at the door and cost $7.50 for adults and $4.00 for children under twelve years – a terrific bargain for a home-cooked meal.     In addition, there will also be desserts, cookies and cakes for sale.     Kathleen Hudson, PhD, will sign hardback and paperback copies of her books, “Stories and Songs; Women in Texas Music” and “Telling Stories, Writing Songs: An Album of Texas Songwriters” (University of Texas Press, 2001).      Hudson, a professor in the English Department at Kerrville’s Schreiner University, founded the Texas Heritage Music Foundation in 1987. A percentage of the proceeds from her books will be donated to CCPAL.      CCPAL volunteers who will visit businesses throughout the county, soliciting donations for the always-popular silent auction – a great way to advertise a business and contribute to a good cause at the same time.     Anyone who would like to donate good quality items for the silent auction should contact Marlys, 830-796-8145; Sue, 830- 535-7297; or Marlene, 830-510-6879.     The Sweetheart Spaghetti Fest serves as the organization’s annual fundraiser. Proceeds from the event aid Bandera County’s stray and abandoned animals.     “Now, more than ever, we need your support. More animals are being dumped on our streets and we’re running short of essential items,” said a CCPAL spokesman. Volunteers are soliciting stainless steel food bowls and water buckets, strong collars and tie downs and wire kennels and cat towers.     “Most of all, however, we need more kindhearted people to foster the cats and dogs until they can be adopted,” the spokesman continued.     “No one could have foreseen the enormous costs incurred during the past year. However, we will continue to be the voice of unwanted animals whose only crime is that their owners no longer wanted them. Without a rescue organization, the animals would be gassed or drowned within three days of their arrival at the county animal facility. We will continue to be the voice for the animals that have none other.”

Team penning clinic, competition Feb. 23 Published Feb. 14, 2008