Category: Outdoor activities

Horse Psychology Experience at JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa

JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa in Sonora, Tx. Photo: JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, used with permission.

To offer its guests an immersive look at the life on a West Texas ranch, the luxury JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa in Sonora, TX has introduced a one-of-a-kind Horse Psychology Experience for guests and locals. Before you can find true harmony and develop rapport with a horse, it is best to try and understand the nature of a horse—and this experience does just that. (JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, 2021)

Led by the working ranch and resort’s equine experts Jon Joseph and Sydney Béïque, guests can learn about horse psychology, the basics of horse behavior, and how to be comfortable around horses; for example, guests will learn that a round pen makes it easier to train horses as well as techniques for optimal upkeep and engagement. This provides a deeper appreciation for the majestic animals as well as a fun, engaging way to immerse yourself in Texas Hill Country ranch culture. 

In addition to JL Bar’s classic horseback riding excursions across the property’s sprawling 13,000 acres and Cowboy Cookout adventures alongside their 32 luxurious accommodations and top-notch spa, the Horse Psychology Experience is a once-in-a-lifetime immersive experience that belongs on any traveler’s bucket list. Guests and locals can partake in this special one-hour course for as low as $50 and gain a deeper understanding and comfort level when interacting with horses.  

Here are some frequently asked questions about the program and answers by JL Bar’s equine expert Jon Joseph:

Horse Psychology + Equine Program:

  • What inspired the JL Bar team to introduce the Horse Psychology experience to guests?
    • Jon/Sydney wanted to change guests minds and teach them “why horses do what they do.” For example, understanding the history of horses, the body language of a horse, herd mentality of horse and why some are leaders and some are followers, etc.
  • What are a few examples of how guests can interact with a horse by going off their body language and emotions to train them? What are a few things guests learn during the horse psychology experience (i.e. round pen, how to approach, etc.)? Can you explain why round pen is better for training?
    • When guests arrive, Jon likes the horses to be the calm and allow guests to approach them. To get here, he has the horses go in the round pen and run laps to get in exercise, etc. Once that’s done he gives them a signal to follow him and stand next to him while interacting with guests. During this time, the horses know it’s their break to be calm, be loved on, and no need to be scared of the guests. If they leave his side and start acting crazy, they know they will have to do the round pen again.
    • Round pen is best to use because if the pen has corners the horse will typically end up staying in the corner with their backside facing you. They will not run around or express interest with humans.
  • How many horses are on property? Can you share any of their personalities, guest favorites, recent additions, etc.? What kinds of horses are on property?
    • There are 8 horses that guests can ride (all ex-show horses), 2 horses in training that are not in front of guests yet, and 2 babies (1 born on the Ranch in last March).
    • Chexamillion is a fan favorite among guests, he is in retirement mode from a successful show career and is very calm and good with all guest types.
  • Outside of the horse psychology experience and horseback riding excursions, are there any other ways that guests can interact with the horses during their stay?
    • Guests can partake in a “Horse Meet & Greet.” JL Bar has noticed it is typically younger or older guests that come and participate. Guests can come love on the horses and take pictures with them. JL Bar is currently building a new barn and once it is ready guests will be able to help take care of the horses by brushing them, help feeding them, etc.
Photo: JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, used with permission.

The Classic Theatre’s ‘Our Town’ opens this Thursday

Performances of ‘Our Town’ will be at the San Antonio Botanical Garden. Photo: Siggi Ragnar, used with permission.

The Classic Theatre of San Antonio’s production of ‘Our Town’ opens at the San Antonio Botanical Garden this Thursday, May 13, 2021. It will run until Sunday May 30 with performances on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 7:30p.m. The San Antonio Botanical Garden is the perfect place to physically distance, get some fresh air, and connect with nature, all while enjoying some Theatre in the Rough. (The Classic Theatre of San Antonio, 2021)

Thornton Wilder’s ‘Our Town’ tells the story of the fictional American small town of Grover’s Corners between 1901 and 1913 through the everyday lives of its citizens. How do the characters find meaning and contentment with their choices as their dreams, relationships, and futures unfold? It is directed by Mark Stringham and cast includes John Boyd, Brian Eanes, Christi Eanes, Sam Egger, Alyx Irene Gonzales, Vincent Hardy, Jonathan McDonald, Michael McCaslin, Adam Ochoa, Magda Porter, Keli Rosa Cabunoc Romero, Ian Rossmeier, Mark Stringham, Cheryl Tanner, Chad Thompson, and Bella Villarreal.

Tickets are available online and range from $24.00 to $39.00. Guests are asked to bring their own chairs and/or blankets to each performance and there will be masks and chairs available for purchase, if need be. There is no intermission for this production. COVID-19 Safety Policies and visitor information can be found online.

Ticket Policies
• Ticket sales are final. There are no refunds. Plays, dates, and artists are subject to change without notice.
• The Classic Theatre of San Antonio reserves the right to refuse admission to anyone.
• No refunds will be issued to latecomers.
• Cell phones and/or recording devices are not permitted to be used in the theatre during a performance. Use of such devices may result in ejection without refund.
• Please do not text during the performance – it is distracting to actors and audience members alike.
• The Classic Theatre of San Antonio reserves the right to make schedule and production changes. When possible, we will call all ticket holders regarding the cancellation of a specific performance.
• Children under the age of four will not be admitted to performances at The Classic Theatre of San Antonio.
• There is no dress code. Many patrons dress in business casual for regular performances.

Pearl celebrates anniversary of Farmers Market

Pearl celebrates Farmers Market’s 12th year in service with national recognition and new Sunday Makers Market. Photo: Pearl, used with permission.

Pearl is pleased to commemorate the 12th anniversary of the launch of the successful Pearl Farmers Market this coming Saturday, May 15, 2021. The market, which was recently named one of the 2021 top 10 farmers markets in the U.S. by USA Today, started in 2009 and has grown to host more than 50 local vendors every Saturday and Sunday. To officially celebrate its 12th year, Pearl Farmers Market will be offering complimentary cupcakes onsite to guests while supplies last. (Pearl, 2021)

Starting Saturday, May 15, Pearl Farmers Market will update its structure to better meet the needs of shoppers and vendors. Saturdays will continue as the Farmers Market from 9a.m. to 1p.m., while Sundays will be reserved for the Makers Market. The new structure will allow for additional local artisans and makers who produce culinary-inspired wares. More than 40 vendors will participate in Sundays’ Makers Market. The hours of operation for the Makers Market are 10a.m. to2 p.m. every Sunday starting May 16, 2021.

“After such a trying year with the pandemic and the winter storm that threatened so many of our region’s producers, we are thrilled with the national recognition placing us in the top five for US Farmers Markets. Pearl’s weekend Markets have grown tremendously over the last dozen years. As part of our market’s evolution, we are creating a new structure that features Farmers Market on Saturdays and Makers Market on Sundays. “ – chief marketing officer Elizabeth Fauerso.

The new changes and expansion to the market conveniently line up with Pearl’s recent recognition last month as one of the top 10 farmers markets in the country according to USA Today. Pearl’s market took the 5th spot on the list. The market attracts approximately 6,000 shoppers each week and hosts more than 50 vendors from within a 150 mile radius of San Antonio to ensure produce is fresh and products are regional.

Pearl, located north of downtown San Antonio, provides a unique experience as a top culinary and cultural destination. The mixed-use space features retail, dining, picturesque green spaces, paseos riverside amphitheater, and the third campus of The Culinary Institute of America. As a former brewery operating from 1883 to 2001, Pearl reflects a vivid past while embracing the future with environmentally sustainable buildings mixed with historic architecture.

 

Mother’s Day brunch at The JL Bar, Ranch, Resort & Spa

Spoil mom this Mother’s Day with a Texas Hill Country Brunch at The JL Bar, Ranch, Resort & Spa. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Mother’s Day is just around the corner on Sunday, May 9, and  what better way to celebrate mom than with a Texas Hill Country brunch at the stunning, 13,000-acre JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa in Sonora Texas. (JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, 2021)

Families can treat mom to a blissful brunch on The Ranch on Sunday, May 9, with two exclusive seatings between 10a.m. to 2p.m. (locals and day visitors can book, too!). For $39.95 and $12.95 for children, guests and locals will be treated to a special menu of signatures dishes from their expert culinary team. There will be two reservations from 10a.m. to 11:30a.m. and 12:30p.m. to 2p.m. with limited seating for both.

For those staying for the weekend, there’s an activity for every type of mom. From a full equestrian program featuring horseback riding and a horse psychology experience to off-road ATV adventures, a Putting/Chipping Green, spa treatments, wine tasting, and clay and skeet shooting, families can make new memories at JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa

The horse psychology experience is led by the working ranch and resort’s equine experts Jon Joseph and Sydney Béïque. Guests can learn about horse psychology, the basics of horse behavior, and how to be comfortable around horses; for example, guests will learn that a round pen makes it easier to train horses as well as techniques for optimal upkeep and engagement. This experience provides a deeper appreciation for the majestic animals as well as a fun, engaging way to immerse yourself in Texas Hill Country ranch culture. Guests and locals can partake in this special one-hour course for as low as $50 and gain a deeper understanding and comfort level when interacting with horses.  

The horse psychology experience is one of the many services guests can enjoy at The JL Bar, Ranch, Resort & Spa. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Recent trip to Port Isabel/South Padre Island

South Padre Island. Photo: Sandra Cruz

Living so close to South Padre Island, we have visited often in the past few months.  Last Friday we wanted to have lunch at my favorite vegan restaurant at the island, Veggie Del Sol, but were sadly disappointed. The night before they sustained damage to their restaurant and were not open yet because they were still cleaning up. We were not about to stick around “just in case,”….we were hungry! So instead we headed back to Port Isabel; there was bound to be somewhere interesting to eat.

We ended up at the Causeway Bar & Grill. Before committing to it, I had to peruse the menu just to make sure they had at least one meatless option for me. Turns out they do. So I ordered the Vegetarian Nachos as an appetizer and the Quesadilla (meatless) as an entrée. They have a black-bean patty burger, but I was not feeling it. My husband ordered the Hey Chancho burger. The food was satisfactory, but the wine was way overpriced at $9 a glass. It was a decent enough visit so we will probably be back.

Rarely do we have dessert, but I noticed an ice-cream parlor afterwards, so we chanced it – Davey Jones Ice Cream Locker. It is a small place, but there are plenty of options. I wanted something sweet, but not too sweet, so I got a cup of cherry ice cream. On the way out, I also got the butter pecan fudge. It comes in these cute little boxes to take home. Again, overpriced, but decent. I guess that is to be expected when you go to a tourist town.

It was time to walk off all the calories we just ate, so we walked over to the nearby shops. There are more than plenty of shopping opportunities but we ended up at The Cat’s Meow Vintage Emporium & Gourmet Shop. They have raw honey, hand-made soaps, unique vintage items, and over 80 vendors. It was so much fun browsing through all the cool home décor items, but I ended up not buying anything. Not this time around, anyway.

We went during the week, so there were not too many people around, the ones we saw in Port Isabel were socially distanced and wearing masks. This was not the case at the island.  Most of the tourist spots were packed in, like the boat tours, and not too many people were wearing masks. Looks like we will have to wait a while longer before we go sight seeing there.

DelFest 2021 announces lineup

DelFest 2021 will take place on September 23-26 in Cumberland, Maryland. Photo: google

DelFest, the beloved genre-spanning festival brainchild of McCoury Music and High Sierra Music is pleased to announce the initial lineup for its 14th annual festival, once again taking place in beautiful Cumberland, Maryland, on September 23-26.  (DelFest, 2021)

The festival, which typically takes place on Memorial Day weekend, will make a one-time move to the fall in 2021 to ensure a COVID-safe gathering. Festival organizers are working with local and state health officials to ensure the safety of musicians, attendees, and staff, and will adhere to local, state, and federal safety mandates. COVID-specific protocols will be announced closer to the festival. For information including camping, parking, partners, and more, please visit DelFest online and follow DelFest on all social platforms.

This year, festival hosts The Del McCoury Band and The Travelin’ McCourys will be joined by Old Crow Medicine Show, St. Paul & The Broken Bones, Sam Bush, The Infamous Stringdusters, The Lil Smokies, Della Mae, Cris Jacobs Band, Hot Club of Cowtown, Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen, The Broomestix, Rob Ickes & Trey Hensley, Steve Poltz, Sister Sadie, Lonesome River Band, Ghost of Paul Revere, Dre Anders, Twisted Pine, Fireside Collective, The Jakob’s Ferry Stragglers, Crying Uncle Bluegrass Band, Birches Band, Haint Blue, Dirty Grass Players, and The 9th Street Band. As always, Joe Craven, will emcee for the weekend. 

In addition to traditional stage sets by these world-class artists, attendees can again expect to see one-of-a-kind collaborations, special guest sit-ins, various tributes to Del McCoury and his musical legacy, and intimate appearances from the artists. DelFest will, as usual, be immediately preceded by the 3-day DelFest Academy hosted by The Travelin’ McCourys and other all-star players.

Located along the Potomac River in the scenic Appalachian Mountains, and personally chosen by Del, the Allegany County Fairgrounds in Cumberland, MD (2.5 hours from Baltimore and D.C.) serves as the ideal location for DelFest. The fairgrounds are conveniently located near four major airports and can be easily reached by rail or road. The city of Cumberland, MD, is a welcoming host offering multiple hotel options, a charming downtown, and great amenities that include biking, fishing, and kayaking, as well as a steam train engine and museum, and interesting dining options. Come for the music, and perhaps stay an extra day to explore the area offerings which are well suited for music fans and outdoor enthusiasts alike. 

 

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The Classic Theatre of San Antonio’s ‘Antigone’ opens Thursday

The Classic Theatre’s production of ‘Antigone’ opens Thursday at the San Antonio Botanical Garden. Photo: The Classic Theatre of San Antonio, used with permission.

Opening this week, The Classic Theatre of San Antonio presents ‘Antigone,’ a dramatic adaptation by Emily Mann from the play by Sophocles. Directed by Kelly Hilliard Roush, performances will be Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 7:30p.m. It will run from Thursday April 8 to Sunday April 25 at the San Antonio Botanical Garden, 555 Funston Place, San Antonio, TX 78209. Cast includes Josey Porras, John Boyd, Kacey Roye, Jon Manzke, Neil Redfield, Adam Ochoa, Gypsy Pantoja, and Marisa Varela. (The Classic Theatre of San Antonio, 2021)

The play ‘Antigone’ begins with two brothers fighting for the kingship of Thebes. Both men die in battle. Their successor and uncle, Creon, decides that one brother will be buried but the other brother will be left on the field of battle. Their sister, Antigone, finds herself having to choose between what she believes to be right, burying her brother, or following the laws of man and facing death herself. What happens when we are forced to choose between doing what we feel is right and what the world is telling us is right?  What forces us to take a stand? What are we willing to die for?

Tickets

To gain access to ‘Antigone’ or any of our upcoming productions this season, you do NOT need to purchase a separate ticket to the Botanical Garden. Tickets to ‘Antigone’ are available online. 

COVID-19 Safety Protocol

This production is staged and costumed with COVID-19 safety protocols in mind. Actors and crew remain at a distance of at least 6 feet apart from one another and are masked when not speaking and when backstage. 

Ticket Policies

Ticket sales are final. There are no refunds. Plays, dates, and artists are subject to change without notice. The Classic Theatre of San Antonio reserves the right to refuse admission to anyone.

No refunds will be issued to latecomers. Cell phones and/or recording devices are not permitted in the theatre during a performance. Use of such devices may result in ejection without refund. Please do not  text during the performance – it is distracting to actors and audience members alike. Please remember to turn your devices off at the end of intermission. The Classic Theatre of San Antonio reserves the right to make schedule and production changes. When possible, we will call all ticket holders regarding the cancellation of a specific performance. Children under the age of four will not be admitted to performances at The Classic Theatre of San Antonio. There is no dress code but many patrons opt to dress in business casual for regular performances.

Flex Passes

Flex Passes for season Season 13 (2020-2021) are available for purchase. Tickets to shows in season 13 are now available online. Please contact the box office for more information at 210-589-8450.

Celebrate Easter at JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa

JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa is having its 5th Annual Easter celebration on April 1 – 4, 2021. Photo: JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, used with permission.

With the Easter holiday officially around the corner and families planning nearby Spring Break getaways this year, the stunning, naturally distanced JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa is egg-cited to announce its fifth annual Easter celebration taking place April 1-4, 2021. (JL Bar Ranch, Resort & Spa, 2021)

Available over the holiday weekend across the resort’s 13,000 sprawling acres in the heart of Texas Hill Country, guests will be able to enjoy several events.  

Egg-cellent Dining: From Friday, April 2 – Sunday, April 4, JL Bar will offer a family-friendly feast daily with live music, including a Chicken & Fish Fry (Friday), a JL Bar Saturday BBQ (price: $32.95 for adults $10.95 for children 12 & under), and Sunday Easter Brunch from 10am to 2pm (price: $39.95 for adults, $12.95 for children 12 & under) 

Saturday Play Day: To kick off the weekend of Eggstravaganza, guests and locals are invited to participate in Saturday Play Day on Saturday, April 3, from 12pm to 5pm. There will be a bounce house, water slide, yard games, swimming, and music for everyone to enjoy. Kids (ages 0-12) can also partake in an Easter Egg Hunt on the sprawling JL Bar lawn. Hamburgers, hot dogs, and chicken strips will be served from 12pm to 2pm and our adult friends will have the chance to experience premium drink service from start to finish.  

Adult Day Pass: $65 | Children 6-12: $25 (event included for all guests staying on property)  

Easter Egg Dash: Celebrate Easter with the little bunnies on Sunday, April 4, at the Easter Egg Dash hatching at 2pm. Children (0-6) will be able to search for eggs hidden in plain sight following Easter Brunch. JL Bar Ranch will provide easter baskets for no additional charge. Included with Easter Brunch, parental supervision required. 

Holiday Home Away from Home: The stunning Hill Country resort is offering exclusive Easter weekend rates, starting at $499/night for a multi-night stay and $599/night for one night. Holiday stays can be booked online or by calling 855-414-3337.

The Classic Theatre of San Antonio presents ‘Antigone’

The Classic Theatre of San Antonio will be performing Antigone in April as part of their Theatre in the Rough series. Photo: The Classic Theatre of San Antonio, used with permission.

The Classic Theatre of San Antonio is continuing its season of Theatre in the Rough with ‘Antigone.’ This dramatic adaptation by Emily Mann from the play by Sophocles is directed by Kelly Hilliard Roush. It will run from April 8 through 25, with performances on Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 7:30p.m. at the San Antonio Botanical Garden. Cast includes Josey Porras, John Boyd, Kacey Roye, Jon Manzke, Neil Redfield, Adam Ochoa, Gypsy Pantoja, and Marisa Varela. Ticket information and COVID safety protocols are available online. (The Classic Theater of San Antonio, 2021)

The play ‘Antigone’ begins with two brothers fighting for the kingship of Thebes. When both men die in battle, their successor and uncle, Creon, decides that one brother will be buried but the other brother will be left on the field of battle. Their sister, Antigone, finds herself having to choose between what she believes to be right: burying her brother, or following the laws of man and facing death herself. What happens when we are forced to choose between doing what we feel is right and what the world is telling us is right?  What forces us to take a stand? What are we willing to die for?

Movies by Moonlight in the Garden this Friday at the San Antonio Botanical Garden

Movies by Moonlight in the Garden will be this Friday March 6, 2021. Photo: San Antonio Botanical Garden

This Friday, March 5, Movies by Moonlight in the Garden continues with two family friendly movies on the lawn: The Lion King and Glory Road. Cozy up under the moonlight with family or friends for a special double feature at the San Antonio Botanical Garden. Guests are encouraged to bring low riding lawn chairs and blankets. Drinks and food will be available for purchase. Guests are asked to follow all COVID-19 visitor guidelines during their visit at the Botanical Garden. (San Antonio Botanical Garden, 2021)

Fee: $20 adults ($18 member) and $15 child ($13.50 member). Tickets available online. The first movie will begin shortly after the sun sets around 6:45p.m. Movies are subject to change.

The Lion King (2019) (G) – After the murder of his father, a young lion prince flees his kingdom only to learn the true meaning of responsibility and bravery.

Glory Road (PG) – In 1966, Texas Western coach Don Haskins led the first all-black starting line-up for a college basketball team to the NCAA national championship.

The San Antonio Botanical Garden was first imagined nearly eight decades ago by civic influences Mrs. R.R. Witt and Mrs. Joseph Murphy. Forty years of planning and partnerships finally blossomed on May 3, 1980 with the official opening of the Botanical Garden. Since that day, the formal gardens and collections of native Texas plants have evolved to make the Botanical Garden one of the most noteworthy botanical centers in the state, educating and inspiring visitors from around the world.