Boerne Business Monthly - August 2023

Get to Know Mayor Frank Ritchie

Karl J. Eggerss Principal, Financial Advisor

Casey Keller, CFA Senior Vice President, Financial Advisor

Shawn Morris, CFP®, AAMS® Vice President, Financial Advisor

Britni Mosher Associate, Relationship Manager

from the publisher

AAnybody else feel like we’re stuck in the 1980’s Bananarama song “Cruel Summer”?

Hot summer streets and the pavements are burning

I sit around

Trying to smile but the air is so heavy and dry Strange voices are sayin’ (what did they say?)

Things I can’t understand

It’s too close for comfort, this heat has got right out of hand

It’s a cruel, (cruel) cruel summer

Leavin’ me here on my own

It’s a cruel, (it’s a cruel) cruel summer...

Right out of hand for sure! And now it’s August when things really start to heat up... I pray we get some relief soon.

August also means back-to-school time. We wish all the students, teachers and staff a safe, blessed and productive 2023-24 school year. And for the rest of you, don’t forget to slow down in the School Zones!

This issue we feature Boerne’s Mayor Frank Ritchie, and of course his oh-sosweet dog, Bella. I’ll tell you what, if how much a person’s dog loves them is any indication of a person’s character, Mayor Ritchie must be a REALLY good guy! I think we all want someone to look at us the way Bella looks at him. All jokes aside, I thoroughly enjoyed my time spent with the two of them and Ritchie’s love for this community is inspiring. Be sure to read the article starting on page 16 to get to know a little bit more about Boerne’s newest Mayor.

PUBLISHER

Lauren

Stumberg lauren@distinctmediatx.com

ADVERTISING

(210) 219-6735 info@distinctmediatx.com

Enjoy your August, and thanks for reading this latest issue of BBM! (830)

Judy Filingeri Owner

Angela Turner Associate Broker®

Carey Stewart REALTOR®

Lynelle Boyd REALTOR®

Good Times

Good Causes for

LHELPING LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS

RAISE FUNDS THROUGH LIVE MUSIC & EVENTS

“Live music means so much to so many people. Everyone is impacted differently by live music and that’s why we enjoy having music on our stage. More than just supporting musicians and putting tunes in the air, we also use live music as a way to support the community. At Dog & Pony we regularly work with different charitable organizations and other

nonprofits to help them and help our community,” said Joey Boatright, owner of Dog & Pony Grill.

Not only does Dog & Pony fill each month full of live music performances, both on their deck and on the stage, but they regularly work with different charitable organizations and other nonprofits. From the Greyhound Athletic Booster Club, Chargers Athletic Booster Club, the 100 Club of Kendall County, The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, The Montessori School, and most recently the Frontline Healing Foundation, this local restaurant and event venue has worked with so many local organizations to help them raise money to support their efforts, filling the Dog & Pony stage with top-notch entertainment from the likes of Cory Morrow, Kyle Park, John Baumann, Aaron Watson, Dirty River Boys, George Birge, Dallas Alexander, Roger Creager and more!

Upcoming fundraisers include events for The

Children’s Shelter and the San Antonio Zoo. On Saturday, September 23rd, Mayeux and Broussard will be opening for Vincent Neil Emerson. This will be a great time of raising funds and awareness for The Children’s Shelter, an organization that delivers high quality, trauma-informed care to children and families. On Sunday, September 10th from 4:00pm to 8:00pm, Dog & Pony will be filled with music, wildlife and family fun for Boerne Wild, the San Antonio Zoo fundraiser. The Cody Sparks band will be performing and there will be prizes, animal chats and even sloth selfies! Tickets must be purchased in advance for both of these events, so visit their website or Facebook page for more info.

“We love bringing regional and national

performers to our stage. We love it even more when it ties into raising money for great causes. School athletics, first responders, medical research, the zoo, children in need…we support them all. And we need the community to support by buying tickets or with businesses buying sponsorships. These organizations spend money to make money, and they get to keep all proceeds once their expenses are covered,” added Boatright.

There is always a good time to be had at Dog & Pony so be sure to visit them all week long for great food, cold drinks and a welcoming atmosphere. They have Tuesday night Steak Nights, Singo

the Texas Hill Country Since 1916

Music Bingo on Thursdays, an array of live music performances, a playground and basketball court for the kids and even a dog park. Be sure to follow them on social media or visit their website so you never miss an event!

Ashlee Pfeiffer Escrow Officer ashlee@kcac.net

Our goal at Kendall County Abstract Company is to be the premier title company in Kendall County. We provide real estate closing services and title insurance to both individuals and businesses. All work and research is done in-house at our office. When you have questions and are looking for high quality, we are ready to serve your needs.

make the difference”

The First Families of Kendall County

Sponsored by the Genealogical Society of Kendall County (GSKC), The First Families of Kendall County project began in 1999. The purpose of this project is to recognize the living descendants of persons instrumental in founding and settling of the area encompassed by present day Kendall County, Texas and to preserve the history of their families and the county.

To date, 586 applications have been approved for 318 different individuals. One hundred seventy (170) Founders and one hundred four (104) Early Settlers have been documented and recognized. They represent one hundred thirty-five (135) different families in Kendall County. There are two hundred sixty-two (262) volumes of First Families notebooks on the shelves at the Family History Place.

Heinrich August Theodor Wendler 1828 – 1906

Pauline Auguste Luckenbach

1845 - 1918

by James Hurst

Here we will share with you some of the stories of those First Families who settled this beautiful area of the Texas hill country. We hope you enjoy!

To learn more about The First Families of Kendall County project visit www.gskctx.org or stop by the Family History Place at 114 E. Blanco in Boerne.

Follow on Facebook at Facebook.com/GenealogicalSocietyOfKendallCounty

AAfter Pauline Auguste Luckenbach married Heinrich “Henry” August Theodore Wendler in Gillespie County on December 17, 1864, the couple settled in the house he built at 302 S. Main in Boerne. Here the couple had seven children, six boys, and a girl, all of whom were born at home in the four-poster family bed, which is still in the family. The descendants of Pauline and Henry occupied the home until 1939. Parts of the original house are still standing; the remainder has been restored and is still in use today.

Pauline came to Texas as a very young child when her parents, Jacob, and Justina (Rübsamen) Luckenbach, emigrated from Stein, Nassau, Germany, with her older sister Amalia. The family settled near Fredericksburg sometime between 1845, when Pauline was

photos of buildings by James Hurst, historical photos on the next page sourced from Ancestry.com and Find-a-Grave.com

born in Naussau, and 1848 when their daughter Henriette was born in Gillespie County. The family later moved to the Luckenbach area, where their descendants still live.

Family stories say Henry was a cabinet maker when he emigrated to Texas from Bielefeld, Westphalen, Germany, in 1853. He planned to follow this trade in America, so he brought his tools with him. They sailed across the Atlantic together, but when the ship reached Galveston Bay, it encountered a storm. It was necessary to lighten the ship's load to save the ship and the passengers, so cargo was thrown overboard, including his tools. However, we did not find him on the Galveston passenger lists. We found a twenty-six-year-old wheelwright Heinrich Wendler who arrived in New Orleans in December 1854 on board the ship Jeverland. Heinrich was accompanied by a seventeen-year-old baker, Ferdinand Wendler. Of course, the ship that Henry sailed on from New Orleans to Indianola could have encountered a storm which resulted in the loss of his tools. In the 1870 census for Boerne, Henry Wendler is listed as a

"wagonmacher", so the New Orleans Heinrich was the right age and occupation to be a match. His father, Carl August, was a cabinet maker, and he and the rest of his household followed Henry to Texas in 1855, settling in Gillespie County.

Henry initially lived in the Sisterdale area, but in September 1856, he purchased Town Lot 29 on Main Street in Boerne for $200, where he established a cabinet shop and other businesses and built his home. The first part of his home was a long room made of stone with a fireplace at one end. Another house was built in front of this one,

on page 13

Pauline and Henry Wendler continued

August Calendar of Events

WEDNESDAYS

FREE ROAM'S SUMMER CONCERT

SERIES - PRESENTED BY LOVORN

LAW FIRM

7:00pmto 9:00pm

235 South Main Street – Boerne

Enjoy an intimate acoustic performance featuring legendary singer songwriters + Texas Regional radio artists.

THURSDAYS

SINGO 'MUSIC BINGO'

Starts at 6:00pm

Dog and Pony Grill

1481 South Main Street – Boerne

Each night, their host will play 150 of the best hits in the music business, all 30-second music clips, and you'll have multiple opportunities to win house cash courtesy of Dog and Pony Grill! Prizes every round! Free to play!

DOBBS THURSDAY KARAOKE NIGHT!

8:00pm to 11:59pm

Salvador Dobbs | 512 River Road –Boerne

Every Thursday is Karaoke Night at Salvador Dobbs, so get ready to have a blast. It's also Girls Night Out, so look for their bar specials dedicated to the ladies.

21 and over please.

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS

LIVE MUSIC AT TUSCULUM BREWING COMPANY!

5:30pm to 8:30pm

236 S. Main Street – Boerne

Check their website or call for more information about their featured weekly musicians!

SINGER/SONGWRITER SERIES AT TAPATIO SPRINGS HILL COUNTRY RESORT

La Cascada Table & Bar – Patio

6:30pm to 10:30pm

1 Resort Way – Boerne

SATURDAYS

A DAY AT THE FARM AND FARMERS MARKET

9:00am to 1:00pm

33 Herff Road – Boerne

Hike the trails, shop in the open air, get gardening inspiration, take classes on growing your food, help the Cibolo Center for Conservation maintain the land through volunteer service projects, or get new recipe ideas!

continued on page 20

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consisting of two rooms and a cellar. Then, as the family grew, they added more rooms, and the two houses were connected.

Although it is now a vacant lot, Henry built a long, one-story rock building next to his home. The front of the building had two large rooms, with a large room in the back. The front rooms had an impressive entrance featuring huge, beautifully paneled front doors. The front of the building housed a saloon, and the back room was a cabinet shop.

The building at 262 S. Main is an import shop today, but when Henry built it next to the saloon, it housed one of the largest general stores in the community. They provided their customers with dry goods, household items, groceries, hunting supplies, etc. He also built a livery stable on the back of the lot and a large rock fountain nearby to serve as a watering trough for the horses. The area back of the building served as a campground for the people who traveled long distances for supplies. People who stayed in the campgrounds and purchased supplies in the store often had their meals in the Wendler home. The lot also contained a dance hall built between the businesses and the Cibolo, which the community used for all types of entertainment.

Henry owned a rental house on the lot south of his house at 302 S. Main. He also established a business engaged in building tin roofs and tanks, which was later taken over by his brother-in-law, Louis Vollbrecht, who was married to Pauline's sister, Bertha.

As one of the original settlers of Boerne, Henry was quite active in the community. He was one of the men that signed the petition to create Kendall County and was a founding member of the Boerne Gesangverien in 1860. During the Civil War, Henry served as a Private in the Texas State Troops for the Third Frontier District under Captain W. E. Jones, the local militia. He was also a founder of the Boerne Cemetery in 1867.

In the 1870 census, Henry and Pauline had four children, Hugo, born in 1866, Theodor, born in 1867, Adolph, born in 1869, and Olga, who was five months old. Pauline's sister, Bertha, lived with them and was listed as a domestic servant. By 1880, Bertha has married Louis Vollbrecht, and Louis' brother, Adolph Vollbrecht, is living with the Wendlers

and working as a clerk in the Wendler's store. Three more children were added to the family: Albert, born in 1872, Bruno, born in 1875 and Henry, Jr., born in 1877.

The 1890 census was lost, but by 1900, Henry's sons, Adolph and Henry Jr, took over the store's operation. Henry is listed as a Capitalist. Pauline is listed as having seven children, six of whom are still living. One of those children, Bruno, was living next door with his wife, Allie (Stewart), and running the saloon. Theodor died in 1898 and is buried in the Boerne Cemetery. Hugo was the Boerne Postmaster and married Amalia Dietert in 1895. Olga married Lorenz Schrader in 1899, and they ran the livery stable. Lorenz was listed as the owner. Albert was the only child not living in Boerne. He moved to California, and was boarding with Henry Davis in Sacramento, where he worked as a house painter. Albert never married, and in 1910, was a bookkeeper in Contra Costa, California, where he died New Year's day the following year. His body was returned to Boerne for burial in the Boerne Cemetery.

Henry died in June 1906 and was buried in the Boerne Cemetery. Pauline and her sons Adolph and Henry Jr. continued to live at 302 S. Main afterward. In 1911, Henry Jr. married Adela Clara Luckenbach, and three years later, Adolph married Bertha Toepperwein. Pauline died in January 1918 and was buried beside Henry in the Boerne Cemetery. She was referred to as Boerne's oldest pioneer in her obituary printed in the San Antonio Express.

To learn more about First Families of Kendall County, visit their website at www.gskctx.org, or stop by The Family History Place, 114 E. Blanco. They are currently open from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM on Monday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM Tuesday through Friday and 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on second and fourth Saturdays.

Whether you are planning on buying, leasing, or selling a home, Bluebonnet has got you covered. It is our mission as a company to provide you with the best service and not waste your time and money. We are a full-service real estate company in Boerne that has been in business since 1989.

There is so much to appreciate about the City of Boerne because everything you could possibly want from a small Texas city is right in front of you. Whatever it is that you love to do, Boerne has it all. Fabulous shopping, delectable dining, original art and wonderful entertainment - what more could you want?

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Get to Know Mayor Frank Ritchie

FFrank Ritchie wears many hats. He’s a husband, father, successful local business owner, pastor, and now –mayor of the City of Boerne. His journey into local politics is not a traditional one, but instead a tale of a grassroots campaign powered by the efforts of enthusiastic local citizens.

Ritchie’s road to Mayor all started with a question he had asked on social media. “The upcoming mayoral election for the City of Boerne was being discussed. I asked what would happen if no one ran for the office. A couple of friends of mine commented, ‘Frank, you should run!’ Other people began to jump on board, and it got me curious,” said Ritchie. He began doing his research on the subject and eventually went and picked up the packet from the City to see exactly what running for Mayor involved. According to Ritchie, “I have

always been involved in the local community and I wondered if I could really have the opportunity to make a difference.” After much consideration, and even more prayer, Ritchie decided to throw his hat in the ring. According to Frank, “My mantra is Colossians 3:23,

by Lauren Stumberg photos by Melissa Lindsey

Together We are Better, Together We are Boerne.

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men. I had to make sure that this was where God was leading me, and not just something that I wanted to do.”

Once he officially put his name on the role to be a candidate, the ball really got rolling. Much of the community rallied behind him showing their support. Ritchie ran an untraditional campaign with no campaign funding or campaigning. He simply ran on the message that he loves Boerne and desires to see the City maintain the quality of life that so many are attracted to. Local citizens who were ready for a change helped spread the word, they even printed their own campaign signs and bumper stickers! Ritchie won the May 2023 General Election by 76% of the vote, officially taking office on May 23, 2023.

Mayor Ritchie believes that the most important part of his new role is to bring the community together. “The future of Boerne is bright, but complicated. Infrastructure, water conservation and managing the growth are just a few of the numerous topics that we as a community must figure out the best solutions for. These can all be divisive issues, but as a leader I hope to set a positive tone and inspire a grace minded community,” he said. “One of my favor-

continued on page 18

Boerne is not only a city, but a way of life. It is important for us to work together to figure out how to preserve that.

pictured: Mayor Frank Ritchie and Bella

continued from page 16

ite quotes is by John Wesley, ‘We may not all believe alike, but we can all love alike’. Boerne is not only a city, but also a way of life. It is important for us to work together to figure out how to preserve that.”

A self-proclaimed “positive person”, Mayor Ritchie has even started a weekly blog where he highlights the good things that are happening in our community. “That’s the Boerne that people need to know about, the good things so often get drowned out. Leadership starts at the top, so hopefully I can set the tone and positivity will trickle down throughout the community.”

Only a few months into his new role, Mayor Ritchie and his sidekick, Bella, are settling in and learning the best way to manage running a business and his pastoral duties alongside being mayor. “There has been a steep learning curve over the past couple of months. Lots of research and reading daily to keep me up-to-date and well informed on the important local topics. Everyone at the City has been extremely helpful and understanding. Thankfully, I

am very okay with saying, ‘I don’t know’. But that doesn’t mean I won’t know,” chuckled Ritchie.

“The City of Boerne is a great organization. Everyone here is knowledgeable and works hard and for me to rely on them is key. The City Manager, Ben Thatcher, along with his Assistant City Managers, Kristy Stark and Danny Zincke, all have big jobs and I have seen first-hand that they are extremely well-equipped and capable of running this City and its approximately 300 employees. The City Manager is responsible for the overall management of City operations and they work closely with both the Mayor and City Council, who are responsible for setting the policy direction. It is so important for those three sectors of local government to work together. If you surround yourself with good people, good things will happen!”

Mayor Ritchie emphasized that he is here to serve the community of Boerne. He finished by saying, knowledgeable “If it’s good for Boerne, I’m in!”

may not all believe alike, but we can all love alike.

– John Wesley

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

AUGUST 2

GBCC RIBBON CUTTING FOR KINETIC KIDS HILL COUNTRY

3:50pm to 4:20pm

CrossFit Fair Oaks Ranch

28451 Interstate 10 W, Ste 103 – Boerne

AUGUST 3

GBCC RIBBON CUTTING FOR BRANCHES AND MORE

11:30am to 12:00pm

Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce

121 S Main St. – Boerne

GBCC RIBBON CUTTING FOR ALL DRY SERVICES OF SATX

1:30pm to 2:00pm

Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce

121 S Main St. – Boerne

GBCC RIBBON CUTTING FOR HILL COUNTRY ANIMAL EMERGENCY HOSPITAL

4:30pm to 5:00pm

826 Johns Rd. – Boerne

AUGUST 5

MOONDANCE OUTDOOR CONCERT

SERIES: FT. BOBBY MARQUEZ

7:00pm to 11:00pm

Cibolo Nature Center

140 City Park Rd. – Boerne

$10 for members, $15 for nonmembers Children 10 and under are free cibolo.org/moondance

AUGUST 8

GBCC RIBBON CUTTING FOR HEIGHTS DIGITAL MEDIA

11:30am to 12:00pm

The Boerne Mural at Corner Cartel

265 S Main St. – Boerne

GBCC RIBBON CUTTING FOR ST. JOHN LUTHERAN SCHOOL

1:30pm to 2:00pm

St. John Lutheran Church and School

315 Rosewood Avenue – Boerne

CITY COUNCIL MEETING

6:00pm to 8:00pm

Livestream Meeting

AUGUST 9

BOERNE NONPROFIT DAY PROCLAMATION

9:00am to 10:00am

Boerne City Hall

447 N. Main St. – Boerne

Mayor Ritchie releases a proclamation declaring August 17th "Boerne Nonprofit Day"!

AUGUST 11

TEXAS TREASURES FINE ART GALLERY & FRAME SHOP'S NEW LOCATION

GRAND OPENING

4:00pm to 8:00pm

919 State Hwy 46 East, Ste. 102 –Bergheim

MOVIE IN THE PARK: FLASH BACK FRIDAY

6:30pm to 10:00pm

Municipal Pool

106 City Park Road – Boerne

Movies start at sundown, but come out early for some pre-movie fun starting at 6:30 pm including free swimming at the Boerne Pool.

MOVIE IN THE PARK: GREASE

7:00pm to 10:30pm

Boerne City Park

106 City Park Road – Boerne

Movies start at sundown, but come out early for some pre-movie fun starting at 7 p.m. on movie days. Bring your blankets, chairs, and snacks as you enjoy some free entertainment before the movie.

AUGUST 11-12

BOERNE SHOP-A-PALOOZA

Hill Country Mile – Boerne

Two days full of shopping fun! Your ticket is your GAMEBOARD for this event. The GAMEBOARD different items to be purchased or amounts spent at participating stores and restaurants. You receive raffle tickets for each of the items marked off on your Gameboard. Prizes are amazing - lots of gift card bundles as well as the GRAND PRIZE - Boerne gift cards totaling over $1,000, giving you a shopping spree at many of our Boerne shops! Get your shopping shoes on, and bring your Gameboard to join the fun!

Tickets are $10 each and $5 from each ticket will be donated to Boys & Girls Club!

AUGUST 12

SECOND SATURDAY

AUTHOR SIGNING

11:00am to 1:00pm

PHPL Lobby | 451 N. Main St. – Boerne

This month’s author is Mark Giardinelli, author of Paul the Apostle's Rescue From Sea.

THE BOERNE BOOKSHOP’S VISITING

AUTHOR: RON MARTINELLI

1:00 pm to 3:00pm

153 S. Main St. #120 – Boerne

KUHLMANN-KING MUSEUM TOURS

12:00pm to 3:00pm

402 East Blanco Road – Boerne

Step back in time to experience and explore how a Boerne family would have lived in the late 1800s.

AUGUST 12 & 26

BLUEGRASS JAM

11:00am to 1:00pm

The AgriCultural Museum and Arts Center

102 City Park Road – Boerne

Bring your instrument and play along or just come to listen to the Bluegrass Jams while exploring the exhibits and grounds of The AgriCultural.

AUGUST 12- 13

BOERNE MARKET DAYS

Saturday: 10 am to 5 pm

Sunday: 10 am to 4 pm

Boerne Main Plaza

100 N. Main St. – Boerne

Market Days has become synonymous with great shopping in an outdoor setting with artists, craftsmen and vendors sharing their creative talents and wares to the background music of some of Texas' best home grown musicians. Spend a day browsing the market and visiting the many downtown boutiques, galleries and restaurants.

AUGUST 14

KENDALL COUNTY COMMISSIONERS COURT

9:00am to 11:00am

Kendall County Courthouse

201 E. San Antonio Ave. – Boerne

Every 2nd and 4th Monday of each month.

WLOCAL BUSINESS LENDS A HELPING HAND TO THE KENDALL COUNTY WOMEN’S SHELTER

We love sharing stories of local businesses that are giving back to the community! Recently, the On The Move, Inc. team came together to fill an entire 14-foot box truck worth of desperately needed items to support the Kendall County Women’s Shelter.

“Our local Women’s Shelter is a lifesaving place for any woman looking for help. The impact this place has on women is life changing. I strongly believe everyone needs a safe place to live and will always support organizations like this. I am so proud of our team coming together and being able to help,” said CJ Stratte, President/CEO of On The Move, Inc.

EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS:

Empowering Employees and Your Organization While Remaining in Compliance

by Caleb Janysek, CPA – ADKF

EEmployee benefit plans (EBPs) are an integral part of a comprehensive compensation package provided by organizations to attract and retain talented employees. These plans contain a range of offerings, including health insurance and retirement plans. By providing these benefits, employers aim to enhance employee well-being, improve job satisfaction, and contribute to the organization's overall success.

One of the primary advantages of offering EBPs to employees is the ability to attract and retain skilled professionals. In a competitive job market, top talents seek employers who provide lucrative compensation packages, including benefits. A robust benefit plan package can act as a powerful recruitment tool, helping organizations stand out from their competitors and secure the best candidates. Further, once employees are onboarded, an elite benefit plan package plays a pivotal role in fostering loyalty and reducing turnover. Employees who feel supported in planning for their future are more likely to remain with an organization resulting in reduced recruitment and training costs.

For companies that provide EBPs for more than 100 individuals, the

Employee Retirement Security Act of 1974 (ERISA) requires an EBP audit from an independent party as part of the plan sponsor’s obligation to file a form 5500 with the Department of Labor (DOL). The Form 5500 is filed with the DOL and contains information about a plan’s financial condition, qualifications, and operation. The purpose of the form is to provide the IRS and

DOL with information about the plan’s compliance with government regulations. Per the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the primary objective of a plan’s financial statements is to assess the plan’s present and future ability to pay benefits.

The financial reporting process for these plans may involve several different groups including the accounting department, human resources, a Third-Party Administrator (TPA), investment trustees and custodians, an actuary, and, of course, the independent auditor. Some of the tasks of a TPA include but are not limited to: amending and restating plan documents, preparing employer and employee benefit statements, assisting in processing all types of distributions from the plan, preparing loan paperwork for plan participants, testing the plan each year to gauge its compliance with all IRS non-discrimination requirements, and preparing the form 5500. It is particularly important, though, to note that the final responsibility for the financial reporting of the EBP lies with plan management, i.e., the management team of the employer who is sponsoring the benefit plan.

A financial statement audit helps protect the integrity of the EBP, allowing users to determine whether the necessary funds will be available to pay retirement, health, and other promised benefits to participants. The scope of these audits may vary, however, if the circumstances allow it. For example, Section 103(a)(3) (C), formerly known as limited scope, audit gives the plan administrator the option of not having investment information

(at the plan level only) tested during the audit. To permit a Section 103(a)(3)(C) audit, the investment information must be certified by the trustee or custodian as “complete and accurate”. Section 103(a) (3)(C) exception only applies to investments. However, in a non-Section 103(a)(3)(C), formerly known as full scope, audit, everything in the plan is subject to testing.

The independent auditor is responsible for obtaining reasonable assurance that the financial statements are free from material misstatement, whether caused by fraud or error. Absolute assurance is not attainable and even a meticulously planned and performed audit may not detect a material misstatement. Considering these facts, it is important to keep in mind when selecting an independent auditor whether they have a strong background in EBP audit engagements as well as know how much training they undergo each year regarding EBP engagements.

Employee benefit plans are essential components of a compensation package and are needed to attract top talent as well as maintain employee satisfaction and increase retention. Compliance requirements, including audits, ensure that benefit plans stay within the bounds of regulatory standards while promoting transparency and protecting the interests of participants and employers. These plans demonstrate an employer’s commitment to the overall welfare of their employees and can contribute to a positive work culture, increased loyalty, and improved organizational performance. BBM

Caleb Janysek joined the ADKF family in 2019 and is currently an Audit Manager. He is originally from Kenedy, Texas and earned a Master of Accountancy from Texas Lutheran University. Caleb is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and has been a practicing auditor since 2014.

ADKF.COM | (830) 815-1100

In life’s big decisions, we are with you all the way

CALENDAR OF EVENTS | cont’d Inspiring people

AUGUST 15

GBCC RIBBON CUTTING FOR THE WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT

11:30am to 12:00pm

Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce

121 S Main St. – Boerne

GBCC RIBBON CUTTING FOR THE KENDALL COUNTY CITIZEN'S LAW ENFORCEMENT ACADEMY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

1:30pm to 2:00pm

Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce

121 S Main St. – Boerne

AUGUST 17

GBCC RIBBON CUTTING FOR THE IRONWOOD BARN AT VON ERICH RANCH

1:30pm to 2:00pm

The Ironwood Barn at Von Erich Ranch

1637 FM 473 – Boerne

MEN'S NIGHT AT FREE ROAM

BREWING

6:00pm to 8:00pm

235 South Main Street – Boerne

An epic Men's Night with motivational speakers every 3rd Thursday of the month. Along with great food trucks and of course, cold beers.

AUGUST 18

LITTLE SPURS AUTISM CENTER NEW LOCATION GRAND OPENING

1:00pm to 3:00pm

119 SW Loop 410 – San Antonio

AUGUST 19

THE BOERNE BOOKSHOP VISITING

AUTHOR: ELISE KRENTZEL

1:00pm to 3:00pm

153 S. Main St. #120 – Boerne

LIVE IN THE TAPROOM: 28 SONGS

6:00pm to 9:00pm

110 Market Avenue – Boerne

Featuring: Ruben Pacheco

Get comfortable with your crew in Boerne's newest brew pub with a cold glass of beer. Order something tasty off of their casual yet tasty menu.

continued on page 29

CChristian Job Corps of Kendall – Bandera Counties is excited to announce their upcoming fundraiser on Thursday, September 21, 2023 entitled “Women of Excellence, Women of Purpose.” The event is at the First United Methodist Church, Boerne; doors open at 11 a.m. This wonderful luncheon features guest speaker Ann Barham, local Boerne businesswoman and CJC volunteer instructor, presenting her powerful message “From Pain to Purpose.” Several women having graduated the highly acclaimed “Prepped for Life” Program will share their success stories. Fundraiser also includes raffle Gift Baskets and door prizes.

CJC’s “Job Prepped for Life” Program equips women in Kendall and Bandera counties to navigate their path toward better life-choices and a new start. This program helps women

suffering from past or present hurts. It helps the healing process by working with the women’s strengths, identifying their talents, sharpening their job skills, and encouraging them towards God’s intended path.

CJC also offers an Inmate “Prepped for Life” Program which equips inmates to navigate their path toward better life-choices and transformed behavior. Classes are offered to men and women in both Kendall and Bandera County Jails. The measure of success is seeing them become healthier, happier, and more productive individuals. As one inmate stated, “I now have hope and the tools to become a better person”.

Tickets go on sale July 17th. Individual tickets are $75. Event, Table, and Program Sponsorships are available and range from $1,500

to $300. Event registration ends September 8, 2023. Visit www.cjcboerne.org/luncheon to register. Contact Executive Director, Carla O’Dell, at Carla@cjcboerne.org, or phone (830) 423-3022, if you wish to support CJC programs and promote your business at this fundraiser.

September 21, 2023

Noon - 1:30 pm

Doors Open at 11:00 am

First United Methodist Church Boerne Family Life Building 205 James St., Boerne

Purchase Tickets at cjcboerne.org/luncheon

CALENDAR OF EVENTS | cont’d

AUGUST 22

GBCC RIBBON CUTTING FOR CUTIE PATOOTIE

11:30am to 12:00pm

233 S Main St, Suite D – Boerne

CITY COUNCIL MEETING

6:00pm to 8:00pm

Livestream Meeting

AUGUST 24

GBCC RIBBON CUTTING FOR BEFORE YOUR EYES INTERIORS

1:30pm to 2:00pm

189 S. Main St. – Boerne

BOERNE AFTER 5 MIXER - HOSTED BY UNITED TEXAS CREDIT UNION

5:00pm to 7:00pm

United Texas Credit Union

1440 S. Main St. – Boerne

AUGUST 26

THE GVTC FOUNDATION

GAME DAY 5K

8:30am to 6:00pm

Knibbe Ranch

9836 Spring Branch Rd. – Spring Branch

Sign up now and secure your spot at the starting line for just $35! Every registration supports a great cause, with proceeds benefiting The GVTC Communications Foundation's impactful initiatives in our community.

THE BOERNE BOOKSHOP VISITING

AUTHOR: DANIEL MOORE

1:00pm to 3:00pm

153 S. Main St. #120 – Boerne

NATIONAL DOG DAY

YAPPY HOUR PARTY

3:00pm to 6:00pm

1481 South Main Street – Boerne

National Dog Day is fast approaching and Dog and Pony is planning the perfect event to celebrate. Join them for a Yappy Hour featuring food specials (for pups and humans), vendors, and more.

AUGUST 29

GBCC RIBBON CUTTING FOR THE KENDALL COUNTY FAIR ASSOCIATION

11:30am to 12:00pm

The Kendall County Fairgrounds

1307 River Rd. – Boerne

GBCC RIBBON CUTTING FOR

JENA CRAIG PHOTOGRAPHY

1:30pm to 2:00pm

41109 IH 10 West – Boerne

AUGUST 31

WINE, WRITING, & CASUAL FUN!

7:00pm to 9:30 pm

The Boerne Bookshop

153 S. Main St. #120 – Boerne

$20 Ages 21+

COMEDY NIGHT AT FREE ROAM

BREWING COMPANY

7:30pm to 9:30pm

235 South Main Street – Boerne

A hilarious Comedy Night every last Thursday of every month. For ages 18+.

SEPTEMBER 1-3

117TH ANNUAL

KENDALL COUNTY FAIR

1307 River Road – Boerne

Tons of Family Fun including an Exhibit Hall, Livestock Show, Arts and Crafts, Carnival, Entertainment, Rodeo, Bull Riding, Contests, Food and Drink, Daily Activities for Adults and Kids, Queen's Pageant and more! www.kcfa.org

GREATER BOERNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE JULY 2023 RIBBON CUTTINGS

Scott Southwell, Realtor - EXP Realty is in the business of bringing people together who want to buy and sell homes! He is known for being a problem solver when it comes to any hurdles you may experience in the buying or selling process. As a life-long Texas resident, Scott knows the Hill Country area! If you’d like to get in contact with him, give him a call at (210) 264-2225, send him an email at scott.southwell@exprealty.com or go to scottsouthwell.exprealty.com!

Hill Country Detours believe that their guests should be concerned with only one thing - enjoying their detour! They take care of all details - the tasting fees, pick-up and drop off (they come to you), and the schedule of venues (if you’d like!). They offer private tours, mixed group, special tours, and basic transportation services. Learn more about Hill Country Detours by going to hillcountrydetours.com or by calling (830) 998-3844!

Tabernacle Construction + Brush Services is committed to a quality job done right, on time and within budget. They specialize in opening up Hill Country land for new construction. Whether you have a small brush removal and clean-up job, or complete build site development, they have the equipment and crew to get the job done. They focus on eco-friendly construction, and can even remove invasive species while preserving the environment. Learn more about Tabernacle Construction and all of their services by going to tabernacle-construction.com or by calling (713) 253-3962!

G.J. Gardner Homes is not just your typical custom builder - they are locals who live and breathe this wonderful community! The entire team is dedicated to providing exceptional craftsmanship, personalized service, and a deep understanding of their clients’ unique needs and desires. From a charming ranch-style abode to a contemporary masterpiece, they have the expertise and creativity to bring your vision to fruition. Be sure to head over to their website at gjgardner.com or give them a call at (830) 251-5098 to learn more!

Assemble Cocktail Workshop is your one stop shop for all things cocktails! They offer event bartending services and specialty drinks, but the primary focus is the private cocktail workshops. These are great for bachelorette parties, birthday celebrations, corporate happy hours and more! Your group will have a one on one experience with a master mixologist, as they teach you how to perfectly craft a great cocktail. To book a workshop, or to learn more about the services offered, go to assemblecocktail.com or give them a call at (830) 423-5454! Assemble Cocktail Workshop is located at 322 S. Main St., Suite B in Boerne behind Pearl Antler.

Bluebonnet Pediatric Therapy provides pediatric occupational, speech, and physical therapy services to children with developmental and intellectual disabilities in community, home, and school environments. They encourage a holistic approach by partnering with families, caregivers, schools, and other professionals as required. Their mission is to lovingly serve children and families of the Hill Country to assist them in reaching their fullest potential. To learn more about their services, you can go to bluebonnetpediatrictherapy. com or give them a call at (830) 755-0098. Congrats Bluebonnet Pediatric Therapy!

Welcome Precision Medspa Boerne into our Boerne Business Community! If you want stunning and natural results, it’s not the Botox or the dermal fillers that count, it’s the injector! Ginger has been a Master Injector for over 7 years, and is excited to bring her expertise to Boerne. They offer injectables, chemical peels, dermal fillers and more. You can book you consultation or appointment online at precision-medspa.com, or by giving them a call at (512) 713-8586! Precision Medspa is located at 28715 IH 10 W. Boerne!

BeLocal NW & Hill Country introduces newcomers to the area they now call home, connecting new residents to the local providers they need. This publication is free to those moving to the Boerne area, and includes recommended business info they may be looking for. Learn more about BeLocal NW & Hill Country by going to belocalpub.com/locations/belocal-nw-hill-country-tx or by calling Julie at (830) 428-4027!

All American Car Wash is excited to expand into Boerne! They offer fast, and high quality experiences to all clients. From the best equipment, complimentary vacuums and towels, to trained professionals, you will receive topnotch service with every visit. They also offer unlimited wash club memberships for those looking to keep their vehicle clean 24/7! Stop by today and treat yourself to a carwash! All American Car Wash is located at 1376 S. Main St. Boerne. You can learn more about their car wash options by going to allamericancarwash.biz or by calling (830) 357-5049!

Texas Homes is excited to announce the Final Phase Release for new homes in the Bent Tree neighborhood in Boerne! This is a great community of 1-acre estate homes, but there are only 9 lots remaining! Interested in learning more about this incredible home builder and great neighborhood? You can stop by and visit their model home at 103 Bent Tree Dr. in Boerne, give them a call at (210) 391-7319 or go to texas-homes.com/bent-tree!

The JLE Studio is a Veteran-owned, creative, multi-use, adaptive studio where you can use your creativity for photography, podcasting, content creation, and events! As a playground for creators and creatives, this unique studio offers a variety of backdrops, props and other visuals to spark creativity! Learn more about this fabulous business by going to thejlestudio.com, by calling (830) 308-7274, or by stopping by and visiting their new space at 529 Hwy. 46, Unit E2 Boerne.

Keller Williams strives to exceed expectations and provide exceptional service throughout your real estate journey.They firmly believe that integrity and honesty are fundamental in establishing trust with clients. Their REALTORS are highly knowledgeable in contracts, well-informed about real estate market trends, and equipped with state-of-the-art tools for effectively marketing property listings. Give Keller Williams a call at (830) 816-3500, stop by and visit their office at 1018 River Rd., Ste. 300 in Boerne or visit them at kwboerne.com.

As the world's largest rental equipment company, United Rentals is committed to providing customers with a range of equipment options to support their sustainability goals. They serve construction and industrial customers, utilities, municipalities, homeowners and more. Their catalog of available rental equipment is extensive, allowing for assistance with any job, none too big or too small. Visit unitedrentals. com or call (346) 333-6042! United Rentals is located at 29880 I10 West in Boerne.

Signarama San Antonio NW is your full service sign center. They use the latest technology and highest quality product to produce custom signs for your business. They can make the perfect signs to advertise your products or to inform your customers, while keeping the image of your company in mind. They proudly serve San Antonio, Boerne, Leon Springs and many areas of the Texas Hill Country. Visit signarama-sanantonionw.com or give them a call at (210) 476-5115! Signarama’s new space is located at 23775 IH-10 in Leon Springs/San Antonio.

II have always enjoyed writing. When I was in second grade our small-town newspaper in Trona, CA had a “Letter to Santa” Contest. I was awarded third place and won a giant lavender teddy bear, almost as tall as I was.

In high school my English teacher was so impressed with a story I wrote as an assignment that he read it aloud to the class and then asked me to tell the class the “story behind the story”. In other words, what point was I trying to drive home? Yikes! To me it was just a story. I didn’t know how to answer Mr. Thompson. So, he helped me along by asking questions. If you asked me the same question about Little Squirrel, I would say: Everything and everyone is important. We each have a significant part to play in life. Emerson said it this way: “... all sorts of things and weather must be taken in together, to make up a year and a sphere…”

When I wrote Little Squirrel I was confined to home for long periods of time each day caring for my 99-year-old mother-in-law. One time as I sat at the top of the stairs at my typewriter, Mom quoted the poem to me. And that poem was the inspiration for my story.

One of the things that makes Little Squirrel so special is that all the charming artwork was done by a ten-year-old artist, Jaden Rodriquez. BBM

We focus on a high-quality experience with books that appeal to all readers. Having a wide range of topics and an eclectic mixture in all areas is a point of pride for us. We want to both provide the books our customers are seeking and expose them to books that will intrigue them. To this end we seek to engage with our customers on what they read and the topics that interest them. And if we don’t have something you want, we can get it.

fun & games

MULTI-GENERATIONAL HOUSING

DDuring the Covid-19 pandemic, multi-generational housing purchases rose from 11% to 15% and then slowly dropped back to the 11% range. However, during the period ending in June of 2022, multigenerational purchases rose to 14% and continue to climb - with inflationary costs of living and rising home prices. Pew Research defines multi-generational living as having at least two generations of adults under one roof. Some statistics say many adults prefer multigenerational living with economic factors and cultural background being the main drivers.

This trend will impact both the sale and rental of existing properties as well as what is being built or remodeled to meet future demand. Those who develop multigenerational communities need to consider an infrastructure where "8

Multi-generational homes must be able to adapt over time - as children grow and move away, parents pass on, and grown children may boomerang

through 80" can thrive. AARP quotes that by 2034, for the first time in US history, we will have more people over 65 than under 18. Most communities will house people of all ages. Accessory dwelling units - what we call "guest houses" - senior living spaces and adaptable single-family homes will be part of a multi-generational community.

While community planners have usually focused on the needs of younger families - i.e. placing schools and recreation within a development, they now may need to focus on adult day care centers, duplexes and cottage courts as part of their master plan, as well as platting large enough lots to allow for accessory dwellings.

Multi-generational homes must be able to adapt over time - as children grow and move away, parents pass on, and grown children may boomerang. A versatile structure would contain a main dwelling for the core family unit, a wing for the grandparents and a third unit perhaps over the garage to boomerang kids or to rent out. It would also be designed to have shared outdoor living space with privacy.

The cottage concept would provide each generation with an individual space in close proximity as well as shared community space. Duplexes would provide proximity without limiting privacy. Neighborhood design would ideally include proximity to grocery stores, offices and shopping.

According to a National Association of Realtors survey, 15% of first time home buyers with a median age of 36 purchased a multi-generational home for the following reasons:

• Cost savings

• Ability to purchase a larger home on multiple incomes

• Children over 18 haven't left home

14% of repeat buyers with a median age of 59 purchased a multi-generational home for the following reasons:

• Adult Children boomerang back

• Caretaking of aging parents

• Able to purchase a larger home on multiple incomes

Both groups also cited being able to spend more time with aging relatives as a factor in their purchase.

If you need guidance in any real estate transaction, Hill Country Home and Land can provide knowledge and expertise for any type of sale or purchase. BBM

Open Sundays

Delivery Available

The Boerne Kendall County Economic Development Corporation (BKCEDC) sponsored Kendall County’s participation in the Home to Texas Program. Four University of Texas students from Kendall County returned to their home community to complete an internship.

“Home to Texas™ is a scholarship-funded summer program affiliated with the University of Texas at Austin that connects first-year students with internship and research opportunities in their hometown communities.

Many students from small or rural communities come to UT Austin; however, few return to their hometowns after graduation. As a result, many Texas communities lose a significant talent base of future professionals and leaders. In response to

this emigration of talent, the School of Undergraduate Studies and Texas Career Engagement have partnered to host the Home to Texas program (an initiative started by IC2 Institute). Undergraduate student participants return to their hometowns after their first year at UT Austin to complete a full-time summer internship and to engage in community research. The goals of this program are three-fold: to develop a strong professional foundation early during the student’s UT experience, to build connections for a potential future in the student’s home community, and to help prepare the next generation of community leaders.

This summer, Schneider Engineering, Connexa, Agave Design Studio, Fulcrum Construction TX, and Das GreenHaus, Kendall County’s first business incubator, all hosted interns from the program.

The BKCEDC held a reception to recognize the students and employers who participated in this year’s program at Das GreenHaus and were joined by representatives of the program including Dr. Brent Iverson, of UT Austin. Amy Story, President/CEO of the BKCEDC stated, “Our participation in this program is critical in our efforts to bring back the talent that leaves our community for higher educational opportunities and enables us to show them that many strong career possibilities exist in their hometown.”

The BKCEDC is a 501(c)(6) public, private not-for profit membership organization whose mission is “to promote business opportunities that will strengthen and grow a vibrant and diverse economic future for Kendall County.”

Introducing the Boerne Flats’ newest state-of-the-art home. This stunning property features soaring ceilings, exposed beams, a chef’s kitchen with top-of-the-line appliances, and cutting-edge smart home technology. A highlight is the walnut wine room, accommodating over 500 bottles and featuring its own self-contained cooling system. With 4 bedrooms, 4.5 bathrooms, a 3-car garage, and a studio-style apartment, this home offers versatile options for guests or rental income. It’s a short walk to Boerne’s best amenities. Luxury and convenience await!