Music, Memories and Momentum Fill Historic Dickman Hall Once Again

On February 14, Mrs. Leslee and Dr. Sandy Hurwitz hosted an unforgettable Valentine’s evening with close friends in the treasured ballroom of historic Dickman Hall. Though the space remains in progress — with paint swatches on the walls, windows in various stages of repair, and the upstairs bar stripped to the studs — the ballroom was transformed for the night into a scene reminiscent of its grand past. White tablecloths, red roses, laughter, and warm camaraderie filled the former officers’ club as award-winning Texas author and singer-songwriter Mike Blakely, joined by accomplished musician Kurt Baumer, delivered an engaging and deeply entertaining performance.

Blakely, a United States Air Force veteran and University of Texas journalism graduate, is a celebrated figure in Texas literature and music. Recently inducted into the prestigious Texas Institute of Letters, he is the author of 19 books and recipient of the Spur Award for Best Western Novel from Western Writers of America, where he also served as past president. With 14 solo albums and international tours, his songs have been recorded by notable artists including Alan Jackson, Gary P. Nunn, and Johnny Rodriguez. Baumer’s musical career includes touring nationally from 1995 to 2000 with country group Lonestar during their rise to nine No. 1 hits, including “Amazed,” which topped both Country and Pop charts. He has performed on major stages including the Grand Ole Opry, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, and ACM and CMA Awards programs.

Guests enjoyed an elevated potluck spread featuring pâté, stuffed dates, homemade lasagna, charcuterie, and more, accompanied by wine and drinks served from Las Moras Inn downstairs. During intermission, Dr. Hurwitz spoke about the importance of strengthening community offline — gathering in person, supporting projects not just financially but through participation and enjoyment. “Money is necessary,” he noted, “but without people to use and cherish these spaces, they cannot be sustained.”

Sandy and Leslee, owners of Transition Ranch, are no strangers to hospitality or philanthropy. In 2008, they transitioned from urban veterinary practice to ranching and real estate development in Southwest Texas, naming their property for both their life shift and its unique ecological setting at the convergence of four Texas eco-regions. The wildlife ranch, known for hosting wildlife photographers and guests from around the world, embodies the spirit of renewal and connection the couple brings to community efforts. Leslee Hurwitz, a culture curator and Certified Veterinary Practice Manager, and Dr. Hurwitz, a veterinarian with over 45 years of practice experience, have long supported initiatives that build strong communities. Their daughter, Kelley Ahr — a fine art and portrait photographer — captured couples’ photographs as gentlemen presented long-stemmed roses to their partners, adding a sentimental touch to the evening. The event also served as a fundraiser for the ongoing Bring Back the Ballroom initiative. Guests generously contributed more than $2,000 toward revitalization efforts. Those making donations included Greg and Laura Lee Barfield, Richard and Bonnie Brotherton, Kelly and Chris Ahr, Ira and Rebecca West, Rick and Dana Schafer, Mark and Amanda Frerich, Alana and Neal Kerr III, Diane and John Brenan, and Allison Schlameus.

Members of the Bring Back the Ballroom committee, particularly Annabell McNew, expressed gratitude to Sandy and Leslee Hurwitz for organizing the event and to all who participated. “After all,” she noted, “that’s the point — to gather, to enjoy, and to build a sense of community.”

The evening echoed the ballroom’s storied past while offering renewed hope for its future. Additional fundraising and programming efforts are planned in the coming weeks. Donations may be made online via the project’s GoFundMe page or by check payable to Fort Clark Springs Community Council, mailed to P.O. Box 1009, Brackettville, TX 78832. For more information, email annabell@kinneycountypost.com.