Boerne Business Monthly - June 2024

David Immel

Karl J. Eggerss Principal, Financial Advisor

Casey Keller, CFA Senior Vice President, Financial Advisor

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

Britni Mosher Senior Associate

from the publisher

WWho’s ready for backyard BBQ’s, lazy floats down the Guadalupe River, trips to the Texas coast and all the other fun things that summer brings? Well I am and I hope I get to soak it all in this year!

In this issue we share with you some ideas for exploring in your own backyard. If you are looking to get out and enjoy the outdoors, why not head to one of our fabulous local parks or cool down in an underground cavern. There is so much fun to be had here in the Texas hill country, but turn to page 8 for a few of our local suggestions.

We hear from so many of you that you really enjoy the First Families articles. This month we learn about the Gilliat Family. We are so grateful to James Hurst for providing us with these informative and interesting articles. If you want to know more about the First Families of Kendall County, or even dive deeper into your personal family tree, be sure to visit the Genealogical Society of Kendall County.

Our cover feature this June is David Immel of Garrett Insurance. While insurance might not always be the funnest topic, it is a necessary one, and when it’s time to choose the

OWNER/PUBLISHER

Lauren Stumberg lauren@distinctmediatx.com

ADVERTISING (210) 219-6735 info@distinctmediatx.com

right policies for your family and business, you want to make sure you have an agent and a company that has the expertise to guide you. Turn to page 20 to learn more about them.

Also in this issue we have some interesting articles on Cannabis Reclassification, Trying to Time the Real Estate Market, Consultations at Annie’s Apothecary and of course lots of local news, info and events to check out.

I hope your summer is full of fun!

Owner/Publisher

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Summer Fun

Sin the Great Outdoors

Summer is here and it is time to get outside and soak it all in! There are countless ways to enjoy nature in Boerne and the surrounding hill country this summer! Here are a few ideas to put on your summer bucket list

BAT WATCHING AT OLD TUNNEL STATE PARK

From May through October, the abandoned railroad tunnel that gives Old Tunnel its name is home to up to 3 million Mexican free-tailed bats and 3,000 cave myotis bats. During those months, visitors ages 4 and older can pay to watch the bats emerge from the tunnel on Thursday through Sunday evenings. You must get permits in advance online or by calling the Customer Service Center to stay for the bat viewing.

Want to learn to sail? Trisum Sailing offers single day and weekend long classes for sailors of all skill levels at Boerne Lake. Learn more at trisumsailing.com. 1 City Lake Road – Boerne | boerneparks.com

Call (866) 978-2287 to get the latest emergence time information. 10619 Old San Antonio Road – Fredericksburg Visit texasstateparks.reserveamerica.com for tickets.

CASCADE CAVERNS

Experience the mystery and wonder of Cascade Caverns with one of their cave tours such as the Downunder Tour, Aquifer Tour or the Night Flashlight Tour. Be sure to

check the website, some tours may require advanced booking and minimum sized groups.

While you are there, explore the Gift & Rock Shop and the Gem & Rock Sluice, Nature Trails, Rock Climbing Wall and Prehistoric Playground.

Want to stay longer? Stay at the Cascade Caverns Campground and RV Park and see all that the 103 acres of native Texas habitat has to offer!

226 Cascade Caverns Road – Boerne (830) 755-8080 for group or campground reservations. | cascadecaverns.com

JAMES KIEHL RIVER BEND PARK

Located in Comfort Texas, James Kiehl River Bend Park is a serene 25-acre natural area with grassland, woodland, and riparian habitats. Enjoy fishing, paddling, swimming and relaxing. The mile and a half of trails are great for fun, exercise, bird watching, wildlife viewing, and nature study!

118 River Bend Road – Comfort kendallcountyparks.org

CAVE WITHOUT A NAME

Explore this natural, living cavern that some say is the most beautiful in Texas. The Cave is filled with spectacular formations and tours include the six major rooms of the cave which offer year-round 66 degree temperatures, easy walkways and brilliant lighting. Why not experience a concert in the Cave’s Throne Room? The combination of dynamic acoustics and nature’s natural backdrop offer a memorable experience. Check their website for the calendar of events. 325 Kreutzberg Road – Boerne (830) 537-4212 | cavewithoutaname.com

JOSHUA SPRINGS PARK AND PRESERVE

Enjoy views of Joshua Creek lake and learn about the park’s natural resources and history while strolling along the granite surface trail. The extensive natural surface trail system provides walking or hiking enthiusiasts with varied ascents and descents through multiple ecosystems and habitats in this 400-acre park. Bring field glasses and a birding book to identify numerous species seen in the preserve. Covered and shaded picnic tables are placed along the banks of the lake and there are designated fishing areas. Enjoy two age-progressive play areas to keep the kids entertained as well. There is also an enclosed dog park for small and large dogs.

CONSUMER AUTO LOANS

716 FM 289 – Comfort kendallcountyparks.org BBM

Summertime is almost here — and for many people that means it’s time to hit the road. But even if you decide to take a vacation, you’ll want other areas of your life to keep working — especially your investments.

So, how can you prevent your investments, and your overall financial strategy, from going on “vacation”?

Here are a few suggestions:

Check your progress. You want your investments to be working hard for you, so you’ll need to check on their performance periodically — but be careful about how you evaluate results. Don’t compare your portfolio’s results against those of a market index, such as the S&P 500, which tracks the stock performance of 500 large U.S. companies listed on American stock exchanges. This comparison may not be particularly valid because your own portfolio ideally should include a range of investments, including U.S. and foreign stocks, corporate and government bonds, certificates of deposit (CDs) and other securities. So, instead of checking your progress against a market index, use benchmarks meaningful to your individual situation, such as whether your portfolio is showing enough growth potential based on a compounding rate of return to keep you moving toward a comfortable retirement and other long-term goals.

Invest with a purpose. When you work intensely at something, it’s usually because you have a definite result in mind. And this sense of purpose applies to investing, too. If you buy a stock here, and another one there, based on “hot” tips you might have seen on television or the internet, you may end up with a jumbled sort of portfolio that doesn’t really reflect your needs. Instead, try to follow a long-term investment strategy based on your financial goals, risk tolerance, asset accumulation needs, liquidity and time horizon, always with an eye toward where you want to go in life — how long you plan to work, what sort of retirement lifestyle you envision, and so on.

Be strategic with your investments. Over the years, you will likely have a variety of competing financial goals — and you’ll want your investment portfolio working to help achieve all of them. That means, though, that you’ll likely need to match certain investments with specific goals. For example, when you contribute to an IRA and a 401(k) or similar plan, you’re putting away money for retirement. But if you want to help your children go to college or receive some other type of post-secondary education or training, you might want to save in a 529 education savings plan, which allows taxfree withdrawals for qualified education expenses. Or, if you want to save for a short-term goal, such as a wedding or a long vacation, you might choose an investment that offers significant protection of principal, so the money will be available when you need it. Ultimately, this type of goals-based investing can help ensure your portfolio is always working on your behalf, in the way you intended.

When you take a vacation, you will hopefully be more relaxed and refreshed. But if you let your investments stop working as hard as they should, the results could be stressful. So, be diligent about your investment strategy, monitor it regularly and make those moves appropriate for your situation. By doing so, you can’t necessarily guarantee a long day at the beach, but you’ll have a good chance of enjoying a sunny outlook. >

JUNE Calendar of Events

ALL MONTH LONG LIVE MUSIC!!

Multiple Venues & Restaurants around town offer live music throughout the week. Be sure to check the City of Boerne’s website for a full list of these events!

TUESDAYS

BOERNE FARMERS MARKET

4:00pm to 7:00pm

402 E. Blanco – Boerne

The Boerne Farmers Market provides quality, locally grown and produced agricultural products, prepared food, and artisan specialty goods to be bought and sold for the benefit of both the consumer and producer. They offer a vibrant and collaborative community that promotes sustainable and healthy living and nurtures the creativity and ingenuity of the hardworking local farmers and artisans of the Texas Hill Country. Come out and explore the bounty of local farmers and growers, homesteaders, ranchers, and artisans, and enjoy the dynamic atmosphere of the market.

FREE ROAM’S TRIVIA TUESDAYS

6:00pm to 8:00pm

235 South Main Street – Boerne

Gather your crew, order a beer, and put your heads together for trivia night at Free Roam Brewing Co. each week! The winning team goes home with bragging rights and a $50 gift card!

THURSDAYS

RANDOM’S TRIVIA THURSDAYS

7:00pm to 9:00pm

11 Upper Cibolo Creek Road – Boerne Join Challenge Entertainment for an epic night of brain-busting fun at Random Beer Garden! Lots of prizes to the top teams and it’s

always free to play! Make memories, enjoy fantastic food, and crown the trivia champions of the night!

DOBBS KARAOKE NIGHT

8:00pm to 11:59pm

Salvador Dobbs | 512 River Road – 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 or get new recipe ideas!

Old Jail Museum Tours

10:00am to 4:00pm

208 East San Antonio Avenue – Boerne

JUNE 8-9

BOERNE MARKET DAYS

Saturday: 10 am to 5 pm

Sunday: 10 am to 4 pm Boerne Market Days is located in the heart of the historical district on Main Plaza. This event comes to town on the second weekend of every month.It 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 for a unique hill country experience.

JUNE 8 & 22

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.

KUHLMANN-KING MUSEUM TOURS

12:00pm to 3:00pm

Kuhlmann-King Historical Complex

402 East Blanco Road - Boerne

Step back in time to experience and explore how a Boerne family would have lived in the late 1800s. Tours are free but donations are always welcome. Keep an eye out for different educational programs each month.

JUNE 11 & 25

ABENDKONZERT

7:30pm to 9:00pm

Main Plaza

100 North Main Street – Boerne

Join the Boerne community and the Boerne Village Band, the longest continuasly playing German band outside of Germany, for an Abendkonzert (evening concert) on the lawn at Main Plaza. They will enchant you with traditional German music and tales of Boerne’s historic past.

JUNE 11 & 18

ART AFTERHOURS

7:00pm to 9:00pm

The AgriCultural Museum & Arts Center

Art AfterHours classes give guests an introduction to fine arts techniques in a playful environment. The casual style of exploration and creativity provides every participant with an evening of fun, friends, and fabrication!

K Clark , CIMA®

Ginny Thompson, Agent

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CONSULTATIONS

ANNIE’S APOTHECARY OFFERS CUSTOMERS HEALTH & WELLNESS EDUCATION THROUGH ONE-ON-ONE COSULTATIONS

WDr. Scott Sumners, PharmD – Annie’s Apothecary

When was the last time you were able to sit down with a pharmacist for 30 minutes or more of uninterrupted time to really discuss your health and wellbeing? At Annie’s Apothecary, our tagline reads, “Education. Custom Solutions. Well-Being.” These three aims lead us to provide services beyond just dispensing specialized, personalized, compounded medications. We place a high value on education. One way we provide education to our customers and patients is through one-on-one consultations. We can schedule a time for you to sit down with one of our pharmacists to dive into your specific health concerns and try to help get you moving in a positive direction. We offer these services in three specialties: Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy, Gut Food Sensitivity Testing, and General Wellness.

Hormones regulate more body functions than many people realize. Because of the significant role that hormones play in our overall health, we specialize in Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy. Dr. Scott Sumners, PharmD has completed extensive training and is a certified Hormone Replacement Therapy Specialist. He will work with you and your medical provider to help optimize the balance of your sex hormones. This process can take several forms. First, our compounding team can formulate, compound, and prepare your individual prescription to the specifications of your medical provider. Second, we can make recommendations to help guide your medical provider through the process of determining the right dose for you. Third, we can have an in-person consultation at Annie’s Apothecary to dive into your health history, current symptoms, and even review current lab work to formulate a recommendation for your medical provider. We also offer saliva and blood-spot hormone testing to help guide the process.

Do you have bloating, stomach pain, fatigue, joint pain, migraines, eczema, or trouble losing weight? At Annie’s Apothecary, we also specialize in gut health. Many health concerns could be directly related to what you are eating. Food sensitivity can cause inflammation throughout your body leading to the aforementioned challenges. About 70% of your immune system is located in your gut so it is easy to see that there is a strong connection between gut and overall health. This is why we offer FIT tests (Food Inflammation Test) which measure

your sensitivity to different foods, additives, or Candida. With just a simple finger stick you can test your immune response to a large variety of foods and move toward understanding what may be upsetting your gut. You can also schedule a 30-minute wellness consultation with a clinical pharmacist to go over your results, talk about other similar foods you may need to avoid, and supplementation to help support your gut and get your health back on track.

A third area of specialization is wellness and therapy streamlining. This type of consultation may involve something as direct as simply reviewing your current list of medications and supplements to look for duplications or modifications that may improve your health outcomes. Medication review can also be very helpful in maximizing the timing of when you take medications and supplements. Some medications work better if taken at a particular time of day or when taken alongside or even separated from other medications. One of our clinical pharmacists can review all your medications and supplements and make recommendations to maximize your benefit from your investment in those products. Wellness can also include making sure your body is supported with foundational building blocks for accomplishing the task of each individual cell. These building blocks are often scarce in the typical American Diet or may be depleted by some medications. You may benefit from supplementing these nutrients, vitamins, or probiotics with high-quality bioavailable, pharmaceutical grade supplements. Our pharmacists can help you navigate which ones may support your needs.

If you are looking for a knowledgeable healthcare professional to provide thoughtful recommendations about your health and wellness, call Annie’s Apothecary today and ask about scheduling an appointment! We are passionate about helping patients feel better in order to live more fully. We are honored to have helped many people through the years, and we look forward to helping you soon!

GGVTC Communications Appoints Josh

Pettiette as New President & CEO

GVTC Communications announced that Josh Pettiette has been appointed the company's new President and CEO. A 14-year GVTC executive, Pettiette will assume responsibilities on July 1, 2024, following the retirement of current President & CEO Ritchie Sorrells.

During his tenure as the Vice President Product, Business Development, and Strategic Planning for GVTC, Pettiette has been instrumental in shaping the organization’s corporate strategy, priorities, and objectives. His 25 years in the telecommunications industry have provided a breadth of knowledge in all aspects of GVTC and will serve him well in his new role as President and CEO.

“We view Josh as a solid choice to bridge the success we’ve enjoyed the past 20 years with a future committed to ensuring the long-term viability of GVTC,” said Clint Swindall, chairman of the GVTC Board of Directors. “His passion for GVTC and proven results in corporate strategy, financial growth, and product evolution make him a great choice to lead the cooperative.”

The appointment follows a meticulous CEO search process conducted by the Board of Directors since January of this year. The board was committed to finding a next-generation leader with a strategic and culture-first mindset to ensure GVTC remains at the forefront of innovation in the telecommunications industry.

“Josh’s strategic mindset and understanding of GVTC's history and culture made him stand out among the myriad of impressive candidates we considered,” Swindall said. “As an integral part of our current culture, Josh understands the importance of the work that’s

been done to build us into the broadband-centric company we’ve become, and we are confident he will preserve the culture necessary to deliver exceptional services to our members and the communities we serve.”

In addition to his work at GVTC, Pettiette is also the founder and chairman of the Bulverde/Spring Branch Economic Development Foundation.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS | cont’d

JUNE 11 & 25

CITY COUNCIL MEETING

6:00pm City Hall | 447 N. Main – Boerne

JUNE 15

6TH ANNUAL BULL RIDING BLOW-OUT

6:00pm to 9:30pm Kendall County Fairgrounds 1307 River Road – Boerne

Prepare for edge-of-your-seat excitement at the 6th Annual Kendall County Fair Association Bull Riding Blowout. Watch Man vs. Bull and Mutton Bustin’ for the kiddos! Mustton Bustin’ sign up at 6:30 PM- $25 per child (65lbs or less), first come, first served. Bull Riding at 7:30 PM. Get your tickets online or at the gate!

JUNE 15 & 16

DAS FESTIVAL OF KENDALL + PARADE

SATURDAY: 9:00am to Midnight

SUNDAY:9:00am - 8:00pm

Random

11 Upper Cibolo Creek Road – Boerne

Parade: Saturday at 10:00am, Main Street – Boerne

This Father’s Day weekend, locals and visitors alike are invited to the inaugural Das Festival of Kendall! The event will be a celebration of Boerne and Kendall County traditions and heritage, including events and festivities like live music all day from numerous local and locally known musicians, family activities for all ages, beer stein hoisting competitions all weekend, performances by the Boerne Village Band, vendors, and food, wine, and beer.

JUNE 16 - FATHER’S DAY

JUNE 20

LIVE AT THE LIBRARY:

JAIME VARELA/3RIOS BLUES BAND

7:00pm to 9:00pm PHPL Library Amphitheater | 451 N. Main Street – Boerne

An enchanting evening of live music at the Library.

JUNE 22

MOONDANCE CONCERT

7:00pm to 10:30pm Cibolo Nature Center 140 City Park Road – Boerne

Moondance is a longstanding and beloved tradition at The Cibolo. This summer, we’re excited to host new local bands and food trucks one Saturday a month for a marvelous night of live music, dancing, stories and celebration at The Cibolo under the oaks and stars.

David Immel

Lby Lauren Stumberg | photo by The Marvelous Mrs. Lindsey

Let’s face it, insurance can be a bit overwhelming. And while it may not be fun, it is essential. You need to know that the policies you have in place are the right fit for you both personally and professionally – and that is why having the right insurance agent is so important. Local agent, David Immel, along with the entire Garrett Insurance family has the industry knowledge and experience to give you the peace of mind that what matters to you is properly protected.

Garrett Insurance is a family-owned and operated independent insurance agency with locations in Texas and Kansas. For over 105 years they have served businesses and individuals with the best in commercial and personal insurance solutions. Built on integrity, honesty and accountability, you can trust that Garrett Insurance can protect what is yours.

Founded in 1918 in Kerrville, Texas, Garrett is still run to this day by descendants of the founding family. In fact, they are one of the longest tenured insurance agencies in the State of Texas. With offices in both Kerrville and Fredericksburg, the agency had wanted to have a presence in Boerne for quite some time. In the spring of 2022, the opportunity to open the Boerne office became a reality when industry veteran, and long-time Boerne resident, David Immel, came on board. Soon after the Boerne location was established, Garrett Insurance opened several more Texas locations in San Angelo, Conroe and The Woodlands, as well as additional locations in Kansas. David Immel joined the company in March of 2022. With more than 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, he was drawn to Garrett Insurance’s strong reputation and their commitment to providing the best

David Immel meets with local client Alex Lopez, owner of Kendall County Roofing, to discuss insurance solutions for his new Boerne office.

Garrett Insurance is proud of their history, and will continue to build upon their legacy by providing their clients with the highest level of “Insurance Excellence Since 1918”.

OUR PROMISE TO YOU

We will provide customized solutions and personalized products based on your needs.

We will be available to you any time so getting important information will be easy for you. We will manage your risk as well as any claims that you file.

We will ease your worry and protect your treasures by transferring identified risks to an insurance product, all the while keeping it simple to understand for you.

continued from page 20 service to their clients. “Having been in the industry for so long, my clients have become more than just customers, they are my friends. They look to me to provide them with the best solutions for their families and their businesses and that is not something that I take lightly. I knew that joining the Garrett Insurance family would not only be the right decision for me professionally, but also for both my existing and new clients,” said Immel.

David graduated from Texas State University with a degree in Marketing through the College of Business. He is licensed in both Property & Casualty and Life & Health. With many years on both the captive and independent side of the industry, he brings a unique perspective for risk evaluation and coverage solutions for his clients. “We know that each client has unique needs and have developed the expertise to tailor our services to each individual client. We understand the importance of building lasting relationships with our clients and helping them navigate the complex world of insurance,” he added. According to Immel, “We know that insurance can sometimes be difficult to understand, but that’s where I come in. I have been dealing with the ins and outs of personal, auto, home and ranch insurance for years. I’ve seen it all! I am also familiar with the legalese of commercial insurance and can spot areas where your business might need additional coverage. And if what you have is sufficient, I will tell you! If I don’t have the answer, I am confident that the team at Garrett does and we will work together to provide you with the best solutions.”

In addition to home, auto, life and business insurance, Garrett Insurance offers several carrier exclusives and programs. “We have an exclusive with Pure Insurance, they specialize in high value homes/highnet worth individuals and families, and we are the only carrier in Boerne/Kendall County appointed with them. We also offer Central Insurance, Chubb Masterpiece, and others. Main Street America, Travelers Farm and Ranch, Farmers Alliance are some of our Farm & Ranch carriers. We have access to exclusive programs for contractors, specifically home and pool builders. Sometimes insurance for contractors is difficult to source with one

carrier and the client ends up with multiple companies to satisfy their Certificate of Insurance requirements. Or it can also be that there is a specific coverage or two that is excluded, which is needed. Some of our programs get rid of these exclusions and allow all lines to go under one carrier/program which simplifies the paperwork for the client and is often times less expensive. In addition to Personal and Commercial Lines, we have a full-service Health/Life/Employee Benefits department,” David added. “We want to partner with our clients for their success, and offering customized and competitive insurance plans is the way to do just that.”

Giving back and being involved in the local community is something that is very important to David. “I was raised here. My wife Bonnie is a fellow Boerne Greyhound, and we have raised our three wonderful children – Henley, Mia and Grady – here in this town that we love. David also enjoys the great outdoors and when it is time to escape and relax you will find him bass fishing all over the state of Texas and hunting in west Texas. “Whether it’s loading a cooler full of snacks to go fossil hunting or catching bass in a stock tank, spending time with my family is precious and important to me,” he added. “I know how much my family and business mean to me, so I understand just how important it is to provide the right insurance protection for those things that my clients hold dear.”

(830) 896-6600 ext. 201 Boerne Office | 301 E. San Antonio Avenue Red Maple building on E. San Antonio Street, right next to Hungry Horse restaurant We

LEVELING THE PLAYING FIELD FOR THE CANNABIS INDUSTRY Cannabis Reclassification

Rby Stephen Cole, CPA – ADKF

Recently, an enormous sigh of relief was heard from business owners, and their CPAs, in the cannabis industry as the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) formalized its process to reclassify cannabis under the Controlled Substance Act (CSA). This sigh of relief has nothing to do with personal views on cannabis and its medical or recreational use, but rather everything to do with improving the business landscape and lowering taxes for businesses in the cannabis industry.

THE BACKSTORY

Impact analysis of federal taxes on the cannabis industry by Whitney Economics determined that cannabis operators paid over $1.8 billion in 2022 and $2 billion in 2023 in taxes above what they would have under regular business tax rules. This excess tax is not due to special, industry specific taxes, but rather from ineligibility of the industry to benefit from deductions and credits that are allowed to most other industries as part of their regular course of business.

As an effect of the DEA’s potential reclassification of cannabis as a “lower risk” Schedule III drug, instead of a “higher risk” Schedule I drug, the cannabis industry would no longer be subject to IRC 280E. This is a massive win for the cannabis industry – changing certain aspects of dayto-day operations including access to FDIC insured banks, and allowing the industry to benefit from deductions and credits generated in their ordinary course of business which will reduce their tax liability.

Over the last 40 years, since 1982, the cannabis industry has faced a unique tax hurdle – Internal Revenue Code (IRC) Section 280E. This code section governs the allowance, or rather disallowance, of certain benefits to companies involved with products that are stratified on the Controlled Substances Act.

UNDERSTANDING IRC 280E

IRC Section 280E states that no deduction or credit is allowed for any amount paid or incurred during the tax year if such trade or business consists of trafficking in controlled substances with the meaning of Schedule I

and Schedule II of the Controlled Substances Act. Thus, companies cultivating, processing, or selling these substances, regardless of state legality, cannot deduct ordinary business expenses from their gross income. The reclassification of cannabis as a Schedule III, not Schedule I, drug would exempt the industry from IRC 280E subject to state determination on legality of cannabis.

ORDINARY DEDUCTION – NO HELP HERE

Section 280E is aimed at discouraging illegal drug trafficking by increasing the tax liability and decreasing the profitability of such activities. The government has historically used tax evasion to charge nefarious characters otherwise able to skirt the law. By making it more undesirable to be involved in the industry, the government hoped to curb illegal drug trafficking. The issue is that legal businesses, otherwise in good standing with the law and the government, have been caught in the crosshairs.

Imagine running a business and being unable to deduct overhead expenses – rents, salaries, utilities, communication, technology, security, or shipping costs. That is the current reality for businesses subject to 208E based on their involvement with cannabis. While certain costs can be allocated to Cost of Goods sold and deducted as such (more on this later), it doesn’t do enough to properly recognize and allow deductions on all business expenses.

For instance, a cannabis distributer incurs significant costs for administrative staff, security, and bookkeepers. Without a shadow of doubt, these are necessary and ordinary expenses of the business that allow it to function. However, under Section 280E these expenses would not be deductible for tax purposes, leading to a higher tax bill.

COST OF GOODS SOLD: CLOSE BUT NO CIGAR

The only saving grace for these businesses is the concept of Cost of Goods Sold (COGS). COGS represents expenses directly incurred in the production of an item for sale. These expenses are deductible, but due to increased IRS scrutiny, need to be extremely well documented and tracked. Depending on what facet of the cannabis industry a business is involved in, the COGS would vary. On the

production side, a farmer would be allowed to include the cost of seeds, fertilizer, and labor directly involved in cultivation and processing. On the distribution side, COGS would mainly consist of the price paid for the flowers, as there is less opportunity to assign costs away from overhead.

The lines between deductible (COGS) and non-deductible expenses can be blurry, especially when it requires allocation of a cost. A warehouse that doubles as a sorting facility and store front would require the rent expense be allocated to reflect a cost assigned to the sorting facility as COGS thus deductible, versus the store front as a non-deductible cost.

CREDITS

The limitation also affects the eligibility to claim tax credits the cannabis industry would be otherwise eligible for, including R&D credits which could come from researching and developing new strains of the crop. Other credits including Work Opportunity Tax Credit, Energy Efficient Commercial Buildings, and Clean Vehicle Credits are not currently available to cannabis businesses, but if rescheduled to Schedule III, could benefit from if otherwise qualified.

IMPACT ON FINANCIAL STATEMENTS & TAXES

The inability to include certain expenses as deductions, and the inability to claim tax credits, artificially inflates the taxable income for the companies within the cannabis industry and results in a higher tax bill than if the business was related to any other crop not identified as a Schedule I or II drug under the CSA. States have the choice to conform with the IRS position by following IRC 280E or to decouple – and allow these deductions. Decouple has been done by some states and allows businesses to take deductions otherwise prohibited at the federal level, as a state deduction. States that currently conform to the IRS position on IRC 280E would automatically allow the deduction upon change at the federal level unless they choose to decouple.

CONCLUSION

Operators and producers in the cannabis industry have long argued that IRC Section 280E is unconstitutional and they should be allowed the same tax treatment as other businesses. The pending cannabis schedule change does plenty to offer reprise to the industry but is by no means a done deal for unwinding IRC 280E from the cannabis industry. Potentially, operators in the industry have an opportunity to better integrate & leverage financial systems, raise capital, and unlock deductions for owners that was otherwise lost under IRC 280E. This levels the playing field for businesses in this industry with those in unrelated industries and provides owners with cash in place of excess tax. BBM

Stephen Cole joined ADKF at the beginning of 2023. He is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and brings with him over 9 years of experience.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS |

JUNE 22

MUSIC IN THE CAVE- SUMMER SOLSTICE

7:30pm to 9:30pm

Enjoy a variety of acoustic, world-beat music styles featuring the words and music of singer/performance artist Rudi Harst (vocals, acoustic guitar, Native American flute, dulcimer, harmonica, Tibetan bowls) surrounded by the Rudiments. The combination of Rudi and the Rudiments and the Queen’s Throne Room at Cave Without a Name makes for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, no matter how many times you go!

CUTS • COLOR • STYLING B

JUNE 22

MOVIE IN THE PARK: MIRACLE

7:00pm to 10:30pm Main Plaza | 100 North Main Street –Boerne

These free, family-friendly screenings are a great time for everyone. Movies start at sundown, but come out early for some pre-movie fun starting at 7:00 p.m. Bring your blankets, chairs, and snacks as you enjoy some free entertainment before the movie.

JUNE 30

BOERNE CONCERT BAND: INDEPENDENCE DAY CONCERT

7:00pm to 8:30pm Main Plaza | 100 North Main Street – Boerne

The Boerne Concert Band plays a wide range of music that people of all ages can enjoy. This group of volunteer musicians is quickly becoming one of the best performing groups in central Texas. They always put on a great show when they play concerts in the park! For this concert, they will be playing patriotic favorites. In the event of rain, this event will be moved to Boerne High School Auditorium (1 Greyhound Ln)

JULY 4

INDEPENDENCE DAY FIREWORKS 9:15pm

The annual Boerne Independence Day fireworks show is set to begin at 9:15 p.m. Thursday, July 4, and is scheduled to last 20-25 minutes. The show is free and open to the public with prime viewing available at the Kendall County Fairgrounds and Champion High School.

There will be a food truck vendor at City Park, but spectators can bring their own snacks and beverages. Just remember, glass is not allowed. The show is best enjoyed on a lawn chair or blanket, but we ask families not to bring tents so as to avoid blocking the show from the people around them. Lastly, though pets are not prohibited, it is best to leave them at home where they will be more comfortable and in a less noisy environment.

GVTC and The

GVTC

Foundation Proudly Award $200,500 in Scholarships to Local Students in 2024

GGVTC and The GVTC Foundation continue to foster educational opportunities through their community with the distribution of over $200,500 to high school seniors in their service area this year! With a firm belief in the transformative power of education, scholarships stand out as one of the most impactful ways in which the foundation and GVTC invest in the future of local students.

This year, The GVTC Foundation awarded a total of $47,500 in scholarships, reaffirming their dedication to nurturing talent and supporting academic endeavors within the GVTC service area. Three outstanding graduating seniors were recipients of this year's scholarships, each embodying exceptional leadership, volunteerism, or vocational/technical aptitude.

Selected from a competitive pool of applicants with the assistance of the New Braunfels Community Foundation (NBCF), these scholarship recipients represent the epitome of achievement and promise within their communities.

The scholarship recipients for 2024 are as follows:

Raahil Gadhoke was honored with the prestigious $25,000 Ritchie T. Sorrells Leadership Scholarship. His active par-

ticipation in initiatives like student government, peer mentorship programs, and fundraising for education in rural India reflects his commitment to taking on leadership roles and making a difference. Raahil will start his academic journey at Northeastern University, where he plans to major in Computer Science and Business Administration. He aspires to use his skills to develop innovative healthcare solutions that bridge gaps in access and affordability. Raahil dreams of combining his passion for AI with his love for medicine to create positive change in the world.

Davis Kuhn was awarded the $15,000 Ola Armstrong Volunteer Scholarship in recognition of his outstanding commitment to community service. His involvement in multiple church youth groups and mentoring at-risk students showcases the positive impact he has had on those in need. Davis will begin his college career at the University of Utah, pursuing a Communications degree. He wants to focus on integrative media applications to strengthen his skills in visual storytelling. He envisions working as a photographer for a professional sports team after he graduates from college.

Rowan Klein received the $7,500

Vocational/Technical Scholarship, honoring his talent in welding. His involvement in church youth groups led him to volunteer with Homes for the Homeless, while his achievements in FFA, including projects showcased at stock shows, further fueled his passion. Additionally, his employment at Cannon Construction provided hands-on experience in welding and various trades. Rowan will be attending Texas State Technical College, where he plans to obtain his Associates of Applied Science Degree in welding. His ultimate goal is to establish his own welding business, focusing on remote and on-site projects.

GVTC and The GVTC Foundation remain steadfast in their commitment to empowering local students and shaping a brighter future for communities in the GVTC service area. Through these scholarships, the foundation continues to sow the seeds of opportunity and inspire the next generation of leaders, volunteers, and skilled professionals.

With heartfelt congratulations, GVTC and The GVTC Foundation extend their best wishes to all scholarship recipients as they embark on their well-deserved successes and future endeavors. BBM

GREATER BOERNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MAY 2024 RIBBON CUTTINGS

Space Makers Junk Removal

Space Makers Junk Removal knows that when it comes to junk removal, you have options. When their company launched, they wanted to give customers the best of both worlds - all the specialized junk removal services that you’d find with a franchise, paired with a high level of service that you can only get from a local team. They even go the extra mile to give back by donating whatever items they can to local charities in the area. Contact them today for a free quote! www.spacemakersjunk.com

Brave Investigations

Brave Investigations is a Texas private investigation firm specializing in digital forensics, cybersecurity, and comprehensive investigations. Their experienced team is committed to delivering discreet and professional services to clients across various industries. From cell phone downloads to computer forensics, their licensed private investigators employ advanced techniques to deliver reliable results. You can contact them today for a free consultation! https:// braveinvestigations.com

Heather Stolle’s School of Dance’s New Studio Location

Heather Stolle’s School of Dance’s celebrated their new studio location with a special ribbon cutting ceremony! HSSD was established in San Antonio in 1998 and has had a second location in Boerne since 2011. With their new space, they are excited to expand into a bigger stand alone space offering a wide variety of dance classes (ages 3-adult) including Preschool Combo, Ballet, Jazz, Hip Hop, Lyrical, Contemporary, Middle School JV and Varsity Team Training, Pilates, Alixa flexibility, PBT, and Acrobatics Arts! Register now for summer camps, intensives or weekly training classes for all ages, June - August! www.hssdance.com

Horst Wasel Consulting

Horst Wasel Consulting, based in Boerne, provides consulting services, leadership training & sales training to startup businesses and established enterprises! They can offer valuable insights and guidance to help your business thrive. Interested in finding out more information for your business? Give Horst a call or send him an email today! horst.wasel@gmail.com, (210) 601-3629 https://business.boerne.org/list/member/horst-waselconsulting-llc

Rivers Edge Counseling & Wellness

Rivers Edge Counseling + Wellness has been on a mission since 2018 to care for individuals and families by creating a better counseling experience for each person who walks through their doors. Their therapists are all well trained and have a variety of specialties, making it easy for clients to get matched with a counselor that fits them best. They offer trauma-informed counseling, play therapy, couples counseling, individual counseling and more. If you are ready to embark on a journey with Rivers Edge, the next step is to reach-out to their admin team.You can contact them through their website or give them a call now to schedule your appointment! https://riversedgecw.com

Saunders Luxury Group

Saunders Luxury Group, is one of the most successful in the San Antonio area and strives to make every deal a win-win for each client. Their team is thorough, detail oriented and places great importance in offering exceptional customer service. They will present you with the most up-to-date information and offer over 25 years of experience and counsel so that you can be fully confident in your real estate decisions. The Saunders Luxury Group covers areas that include Fair Oaks Ranch, Boerne, San Antonio and the surrounding Texas Hill Country areas. www.saundersluxurygroup.com

Vista Swimming Academy

Vista Swim Academy’s celebrated their 1 Year Anniversary with a special ribbon cutting ceremony! Vista Swim Academy is committed to providing quality instruction to students of all ages; with the lowest group ratios in the area! They use a proven curriculum that pairs the importance of water safety with proper technique in a fun and caring environment. Their indoor location is a one-room facility equipped with a restroom, private changing stalls, and a rinse station. They offer parent & me classes, group classes, semi-private lessons, private lessons and more! www.vistaswimacademy.com

Napa Oaks Dental

Napa Oaks Dental, which is a husband-wife duo, share a passion for compassionate and patient-centric dental care. They combine high-quality treatments and transparent, comfortable dental care with a knowledgeable team that creates lasting relationships with their patients. They offer a wide variety of treatments and services including, but not limited to: general dentistry, Invisalign, cosmetic dentistry, orthodontics, wisdom teeth removal, emergency dentistry, and more! Make an appointment today with Dr. Keyur Bhagat or Dr. Feri Gandhi by going to the Napa Oaks Dental website, or just give them a call! Congrats, Napa Oaks Dental! www.napaoaksdental.com

Onsite Pro Can 7 Year Anniversary

Onsite Pro Can celebrated their 7 year anniversary with a special ribbon cutting! Onsite Pro Can is your premier provider of portable toilet rental services in the Hill Country and San Antonio! Whether you’re planning a wedding, starting a construction project, or organizing a special event, they have you covered with their top-notch sanitation solutions. They offer standard and handicap portable toilets, hand washing and sanitizing stations, blackwater holding tanks, freshwater holding tanks, RV pumping and more. Give them a call for all your needs! https://onsiteprocan.com

Gilded Palm Aesthetic Spa’s New Larger Boerne Location

Gilded Palm Aesthetic Spa has a special ribbon cutting ceremony for their new location! They specialize in nonsurgical cosmetic and skin-tightening treatments with natural results. With a free, in-office consultation, Dr. Jessie will help you understand the services they provide and which would be right for you. We are so excited for them and their move into a larger location in Boerne, we encourage you to stop by and check it out! www.gildedpalmspa.com

Balance PT

Complete Balance Women’s Health & Wellness gets to know you, your story, and your concerns. They tailor a plan that is designed with your history, exam findings and preferences in mind. In order to find relief from musculoskeletal, pelvic, and gut issues, a whole person approach is required, which is the foundation that Complete Balance is built on. They work with women through all stages of their lives to support healthy digestion, menstruation, fertility, pregnancy, postpartum recovery, sexuality, and menopause. Give them a call today or go to their website to book an appointment! https://completebalancept.com

The Ironwood Barn at Von Erich Ranch Open House

The Ironwood Barn at Von Erich Ranch held a special ribbon cutting, open house & fashion show! This is a 5,000 square foot, family owned and converted barn that offers an inviting atmosphere and flexible space for any special event! Their dedicated team strives to create an enchanting experience, tailored to the unique vision and desires of each client. To learn more about their packages or to book a tour, visit their website www.vonerichranch.com

Eye

Your vision health is Innovista Eye’s top priority, and they strive to create a warm and welcoming environment for every patient.Their mission is to help you see the world with clarity and confidence. Their featured services include ocular disease management, comprehensive eye exams, LASIK co-management, pediatric vision care, Ortho K and more! Head over to their website to request an appointment or give them a call now. www.innovistaeye.com

UPCOMING RIBBON CUTTINGS & BUSINESS BUILDING EVENTS

JUNE 11

Ribbon Cutting for John Harvey Farmers Insurance Agency

Ribbon Cutting for Great Clips

JUNE 12

Ribbon Cutting for Sherwin Williams of Fair Oaks

JUNE 13

Ribbon Cutting for Anytime Fitness Boerne

Ribbon Cutting for SFC Fitness & Health

Boerne After Hours Mixer - Hosted by Bakery Lorraine

JUNE 18

Ribbon Cutting for THRU Project Ribbon Cutting for Stargazer Ranch

JUNE 20

Ribbon Cutting for The Sanctuary Ribbon Cutting for Celeste

JUNE 25

Ribbon Cutting for Positivity with Purpose Coaching

JUNE 27

Ribbon Cutting for VaVia San Antonio

Ribbon Cutting for Tre Pizzeria

Boerne After Hours Mixer - Hosted by Signarama San Antonio NW

For More Information, Times and Locations visit the Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce’s website: Boerne.org

Sunbelt Rentals’ Grand Opening

A leader in the equipment rental industry, Sunbelt Rentals is constantly advancing the idea of how a company can best serve its customers, communities and the planet. They offer rentals on air compressors, aerial work platforms, ladders, general construction tools, generators, fork lifts, concrete and masonry equipment, load banks, temporary fencing, refrigeration and so much more! Check them out today by going to their website or by giving them a call! www.sunbeltrentals.com

Dominion’s Grand Opening Dominion Realty Group had a special ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of their new location! RE/ MAX elite is a seasoned team of real estate professionals, boasting an impressive collective 95 years in the dynamic San Antonio market. With a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record, they are dedicated to guiding both buyers and sellers through every step of their real estate journey. Give them a call, head to their website or stop by and visit their new space to get started on your buying or selling journey! elite-the-dominion-san-antonio-tx.remax.com

Job change?

Whether retiring or changing jobs, you’ll want to know your retirement account options.

There are four potential options for your 401(k) when leaving an employer:

• Leave it in your former employer’s 401(k) plan, if allowed by the plan.

• Move it to your new employer’s 401(k) plan, if you’ve changed employers and your new employer plan allows for it.

• Roll the account over to an individual retirement account (IRA).

• Cash it out, which is subject to potential tax consequences.

We can talk through your financial goals and find the option that works best for you.

Caleb K Clark, CIMA® Financial Advisor

830-428-0097

Complete

Innovista

RE/MAX Elite SA

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.

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!

First Families of Kendall County

Alfred Gordon “Gore” Gilliat 1860 – 1936

Elizabeth “Bessie” Mary Stephen McDonald 1873 – 1948

by James Hurst

SScarlet fever was on the rampage in Dorset, England, in the Fall of 1860. The physician who attended the birth of Emma Clowes Gilliat’s child had scarlet fever and infected the mother. She died on November 24, just six days after giving birth to her only child, Alfred Gordon Gilliat. The baby, who was called “Gore’ or “Gordon,” also contracted the disease, which caused his eardrums to burst and left him deaf. His father, Alfred, was a gentleman landowner and had married Gordon’s mother, Emma, in Middlesex on February 24, 1859. Gordon’s grandfather, Alfred Galigo Gilliat, died a month later, and his estate passed to his only son, Alfred.

In 1861, Alfred was in Hampshire, about fifty miles east of Dorset. On the census, Alfred is the Head of Household, a widower, and a Landed Proprietor. Alfred’s stepmother and sister were living with him and were listed as Fundholders, indicating that Alfred’s father, Alfred Galigo, provided for them when he passed his lands to his son. Gordon was four months old. His maternal grandfather, William Clowes, was visiting from Paddington with three of his children. Gordon’s family was financially well off because eight domestic servants lived in the house. One interesting note: The census has a column to report if a person is blind, deaf, or dumb. The line for Gordon is blank, indicating that the family had not yet realized that he could not hear.

Gordon is not listed on the 1871 census. His descendants tell us that his father sent him to a School for the Deaf in Brussels, Belgium, where he learned to lip read, so he was likely in Belgium in 1871. His father, Alfred, remarried in 1862, and by

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

1871, he had sired five of the seven children he had with his second wife, Ann Hatfield Gilliat. The family lived in Tonbridge, Kent, with seven live-in servants. Instead of listing an occupation, the census enumerator notes that Alfred’s “income is principally from dividends.”

In 1881, the family lived in Hadleigh, Essex which is on the Thames, east of London and very near the North Sea’s confluence with the English Channel. The number of live-in servants had decreased to a cook, a nurse, and a housemaid. Gordon was twenty, living at home, and employed as a clerk in an accounting office. All his half-siblings except Frederick were at home and listed as scholars.

Gordon wanted to become a rancher. Although trained in banking, he was impressed by the stories of William George Kingsbury telling of cattle drives and land sales in Texas. He booked passage, arrived in New York on December 14, 1881, and traveled to Boerne to Kingsbury’s home. From there, he went to the home of Michael Glynn Turquand, an enthusiastic sportsman from England whose ranch was known as a center for polo enthusiasts. Gordon stayed with the Turquands until he found work.

He made at least one trip driving cattle up the Western Trail, and there was a photograph of Gordon as a cowboy at one time. Even before he owned any land, his interest in cattle raising was evident when he registered his cattle brand and earmarks at the Kendall County Courthouse on July 30, 1883.

with a picket fence. His diaries show that he began purchasing farm equipment in 1890 when he purchased a combine. Gordon earned income from horses, cattle, and various farm crops, including sugar cane. He also contracted to do plowing and threshing for other farmers. He expanded his airable land by grubbing and clearing new fields. It wasn’t all work for Gordon. He participated in numerous recreational and social activities, including polo, cricket, and tennis. His diaries included entries about tea parties, paper chases, dances, masquerade balls, and visits to the opera house. He attended church services at St. Helena’s Episcopal Church and was frequently invited to Sunday dinner with families from the church. On August 29, 1897, Gordon recorded his first outing with his future bride, Eliza Mary Stephen McDonald. He wrote that he had taken “EMS by buckboard to visit Dr. and Mrs. Weatherhead.” A month and a half and three outings later, he and Eliza (called “Bessie” by her family) were married on October 12, 1897, at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in San Antonio.

Gordon found work on the ranch of Barron Leo Von Brandenstein, five and a half miles northwest of Boerne. The von Brandenstein’s home burned to the ground on January 12, 1890. Despondent over the loss, the von Brandensteins left Boerne the following month. Gordon continued to manage the ranch while living and boarding with nearby families. In February 1893, Gordon purchased the property from the von Brandensteins, who were living in Mexico.

Over the next five years, Gordon dismantled the remains of the old house, and after leveling the foundation, he built a new one, complete

Bessie was born in Glasgow, Scotland, on February 24, 1873, the youngest of four children. By the time she was nine, her father, a druggist named James McDonald, had passed away, and her mother, Eliza Urquhart McDonald, nee Ritchie, had immigrated to Texas with her four children. Family stories tell us that Bessie’s brother William had rheumatic fever, and Mrs. McDonald was advised to move to Texas or Australia for his health. Other accounts say she learned of opportunities in Texas from the writings of William George Kingsbury, just as her future son-in-law had. Both stories could be true. Bessie’s older sister, Mary Agnes “Dolly,” recorded their arrival in Texas as May 1, 1882. Dolly eventually began teaching and ended her career as the principal of Smith Elementary School in San Antonio. Her brother, Frank, went to work for the railroad, and “Willie” moved to Houston, where he worked for the IRS. In 1890, Bessie may have worked as a housemaid in San Antonio. The City Directory lists a Bessie McDonald

June

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as a servant in a home.

After their marriage, Gordon’s life changed in many ways, but he kept improving the ranch. Bessie named the ranch “Braehead,” meaning hilltop, for her ancestral home in Scotland. In September 1893, he acquired an additional 700 acres from Harriet Mackenzie, bordering the western edge of the von Brandenstein plat. Gordon continued to add farming equipment and increased the size of his hay barn, making it the largest in the county. He continued producing various crops and other agricultural products and used his equipment to assist other landowners with harvesting. At the time of his death, he had 378 acres of land under cultivation, the most of any landowner in the county. He and Bessie had two children, Edith Agnes, born October 23, 1898, and Alfred McDonald, born January 24, 1900.

In 1902, Gordon began to acquire property in town. His first acquisition was the livery stable on Main Street, occupying Town Lot 66. By 1915, he had acquired Town Lots 62 through 66, located at the corner of San Antonio and Main Streets on the south side of the town plaza. He also supplied rock from his quarry for the new school, built in 1909, and the following year for the addition to the courthouse.

Gordon and Bessie were both active in the community. Gordon was elected to the Vestry at St Helena’s Episcopal Church in 1899 and served for twenty years. Despite his deafness, he served the church as a Lay Reader and was a delegate to the Diocesan Council meetings for eight years. He helped organize the Truck Growers Association and was actively involved with the Kendall County Fair Association and the Boerne Masonic Lodge. Once again, the Gilliat quarry provided stone for St. Helena’s new church building in 1929.

Bessie was also active in the Fair Association and served as President of the Women’s Auxiliary at St. Helena’s for twenty-five years, beginning in 1903. Bessie was among the first members when the Boerne Reading Club was organized in 1922. Her daughter and granddaughter were also club members in

later years. The club celebrated its 100th anniversary at the Herff Farm in 2022.

Alfred Gordon Gilliat died at this ranch home on February 11, 1936, and was buried in the Boerne Cemetery. Bessie continued to be active on the farm and in the community for another twelve years. Eliza Mary “Bessie” Stephen McDonald Gilliat died of a heart attack while on a Christmas shopping trip to San Antonio on December 6, 1948, and was buried next to Gordon in the Boerne Cemetery. BBM

Dr. Liz Brackett Dr. Heather Caddell

Dr. Ashley Gleaves

Dr. Scott Farhart

Cristina Bueche, MSN, FNP-C

Dr. Christine VanRamshorst Dr. Alejandra Cabrera

MORTGAGES NEWS FOR BUYERS AND SELLERS

Trying to time the market?

AAs rates may start to normalize, and more new homes are being built, buyers and sellers will be on the move. But don't try to time the market. Get your house in order (actual and financial) to get ahead of the crowd. Many people worry about finding their next home or the rates remaining high. You may be in love with your interest rate, but there could be a price in waitng to buy or sell. This might be the best time to make a move.

THE PRICE SELLERS

PAY FOR WAITING

• More competition - there will be a projected 13% increase of sellers in 2024

• More competition from new construction - new home sales are projected to keep rising.

• More risk for expensive repairs that can wipe out savings

THE PRICE BUYERS PAY FOR WAITING

• 40% of potential buyers said they won't wait for rates to drop

- that is more competition for the home you may want.

• Average renters pay 32% of their income towards rent

- all while losing out on building equity.

• Median home price is expected to continue to rise.

IMPACT OF WAITING FOR LOWER RATES

PRICE

BUY NOW BUY LATER

$400,000

WHAT ABOUT A REVERSE MORTGAGE?

Is a reverse mortgage smart? Qualified older Americans may be able to use a reverse mortgage not just to stay in their current home but also to buy a new home.

Reverse mortgages were first written in 1961 but they became better known when President Reagan signed the Housing and Community Development Act in law in 1988. Since then, the

U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development and the Federal Housing Administration have worked to add safeguards through federal regulations, insurance and more stringent qualifying criteria.

Buyers, who must be at least 62, must demonstrate they have the income to pay real estate taxes and the cost of homeowner insurance and can afford to maintain their home, whether a single family home or a condo. Those who might benefit most are homeowners who want to access capital without affecting their budget or savings, because borrowers have no required principal or interest payments for as long as they are living in the property.

A reverse mortgage could also benefit those who might outlive their retirement savings. The reverse mortgage amount will range from 35% to 60% of the value and is determined by the age of the youngest borrower, the current appraised value of the home and current interest rates.

Available funds can be left in a line of credit, which can appreciate over time and could be used for a variety of needs such as in-home health care, HOA costs or adding an auxiliary dwelling.

Once a borrower sells the home, remaining monies are paid back, first to the reverse mortgage company.

Some don't like reverse mortgages because of the closing fee of 2% of the appraised value, plus origination and attorney fees. They are not recommended for borrowers who plan to live in their house less than 10 years.

Hill Country Home and Land is always available for assistance with all of your real estate needs and questions.

TBoerne ISD to Host Community Leadership Academy

The Boerne Independent School District will host The Boerne ISD Community Leadership Academy. The BISD CLA is open to citizens who wish to build their understanding of Boerne ISD.

This program consists of five, half-day sessions from October to March during the 2024-2025 school year. The agendas for these sessions will include tours of campus and district facilities, as well as opportunities to visit with school board members, administrators, and staff. Each session will take place in the Boerne ISD Board Room, 235 Johns Road, and will begin at 8:00 AM and conclude by 1:30 PM.

The session dates for the Community Leadership Academy are:

Tuesday, October 1, 2024

Wednesday, November 20, 2024

Saturday, January 25, 2025

Wednesday, February 12, 2025

Tuesday, March 4, 2025

Participants will learn about the Board of Trustees' role in making Boerne ISD fiscally and academically exceptional,

district operations and the impact thereof on the education of students, as well as Boerne ISD programs and curriculum that are chosen to support students academically.

Some of the topics to be covered in the program are Boerne ISD budgeting and expenditure procedures; Student and staff safety programs and protocols; Boerne ISD whole-child approach to the educational experience; Biliteracy programs in Boerne ISD; as well as College and career readiness, including Career and Technical Education opportunities for students.

This academy is free and open to those who reside in or own/ operate a business or organization within the boundaries of the Boerne ISD.

The application opens on June 1, 2024, and closes on September 1, 2024.To apply please visit www.BoerneISD.net/ CLA.

If you have any questions about this program or the application, please contact Yvette Reyna at (830) 357-2008 or email at Yvette.Reyna@boerneisd.net. BBM

Nearly 100 Boerne ISD Students Earn Medical Assistant Certification

The Boerne Independent School District saw a total of 96 students from Boerne High School and Champion High School earn their certified clinical medical assistant certification during the 2023-24 school year. The students were certified by the National Healthcareer Association, becoming Certified Clinical Medical Assistants.

TBISD’s Medical Assistant Program is a four-course sequence, including topics such as anatomy, physiology, and medical terminology. Students must also pass the certifying exam. The students shadow and intern with physicians in a variety of settings, including the emergency room, physical therapy, dental, ophthalmology, and family medicine.

Medical assistants perform a variety of tasks, including taking patient vitals, assisting providers with exams and procedures, administering medications, and performing necessary laboratory procedures.

Boerne ISD’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) Health Science program offers students

the opportunity to earn the following certifications: BLS CPR, OSHA 10 Health, Patient care technician, EKG technician, Phlebotomy, Certified clinical medical assistant, Registered nurse (ECHS PTECH). BBM

Champion High School Class of 2024 graduate Ashlyn Edison earned her certified clinical medical assistant certification

Serving

Texas Hill Country Horseshoe Bay, Lake LBJ, and Boerne

We were fortunate to meet Kathleen when we were first looking at lake property on Lake LBJ, and even more fortunate that she stuck with us through our year-long process of looking at properties before taking the leap of lake house ownership! It was a great process and has blossomed into both friendship and further real estate sales and purchases with Kathleen and Ryan. They know the area, the business, they really spent the time to get to know us and our interests, and they make it all a really enjoyable process! We highly recommend you contact Kathleen and Ryan whether you're looking for a home or investment property they're the best!

Kevin and Paula M.

Kathleen was referred to us by a friend in Austin when we told her we were looking for an investment property in Horseshoe Bay. Kathleen and Ryan far exceeded our expectations. They responded quickly to emails and texts and were quick to jump on the phone when we had more in depth questions. Every potential issue we faced they had suggestions, before and after close. They helped us find a lender that could help us get creative with financing and also helped us with various contractors for issues we faced after closing. We had a lot of questions as we did our due diligence before we even made an offer and they were patient as we navigated the transaction. I will definitely work with them again!

Brandon and Luika R.

We cannot say enough about Kathleen as our realtor! We bought property in Horseshoe Bay, and she was so knowledgeable about the market, it made the buying process super easy and smooth. She knew exactly what to do at every step of the way and gave us excellent guidance. She remained confident when we encountered challenges and always kept us on target. She was extremely helpful and responsive, and we could not have been happier working with her! I would highly recommend Kathleen to anyone selling or buying real-estate. She is the ultimate professional!

Justin and Amy G.

830.265.2818

kathleen.kokernot@sothebysrealty.com

kjluxury.com