Boerne Business Monthly - March 2023

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

welcome!

MMarch is here and that makes me happy! This month brings spring, daylight savings time, warmer weather and longer days – yay!

In this issue of Boerne Business Monthly we feature Northeast OB/GYN. This practice has been growing alongside Boerne and recently added two new practitioners to meet the needs of our expanding community. Turn to page 16 and learn more about Dr. Christine Van Ramshorst and Nurse Practitioner Cristina Bueche.

Spring Break happens this month too! Many of you will be heading out to the beach or the mountains, but

if you plan to stay close to home this year we have some fun ideas of local places that are sure to please.

Also in this issue, Karl Eggerss of CapTrust fills us in on The Gray Divorce Boom, Hill Country Home & Land give us some spring clean up ideas & ADKF talks digital organization.

As the weather warms, so does the local Calendar of Events. Be sure to check it out so you don’t miss all the fun to be had this month!

Lauren Stumberg Owner/Publisher

Endless possibilities! This quaint cozy hill country home invites so many options for how you can use the floor plan – for example, the room off the main LR could be 2nd family room, guest suite, office, game room – whatever and however you want to use this amazing space with it’s own huge closet, powder room and outside access to patio. Talk about a very functional floor plan with study, two guest bedrooms and bath situated for privacy, open living area with vaulted ceiling, stone fireplace, and exquisite picture windows to take in long range hill country views for gorgeous mornings and peaceful evenings, step out to the patio for evening star gazing. This home features an oversized private master suite with door to the backyard, full bath and easy access his and her closets. Also enjoy views from this country kitchen to the side yard, which includes a deck and plenty of room for vegetable garden. Storage is abundant in this spacious home and plenty of room to entertain or curl up in your own private corner for an evening of reading or movie watching. Need to work at home? Perfect study with double doors for privacy and design your own personal space. So many options of how you want to live and the outdoors will be a huge part of this easy going lifestyle. This is hill country living at its’ best-- views, quiet, nature, HOME!

IT’S CLEAN-UP SEASON WHETHER YOU ARE SELLING YOUR HOME OR NOT

TThe warmer temperatures this time of year are enticing us to work on lawns and gardens; however if you have lived in Texas long enough, you know there can always be a "late" freeze. We live in Zone 8 and March 15 is the magic date to plant, but there are many tasks that can be done before that ever happens. So roll up your sleeves and tackle this short list. When everything really starts popping, you will be glad you did.

"March is a good time to take stock of your yard and see if it's time to thin out crowded beds and do some transplanting to fill in bare spots," says This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook.

1. PRUNE AWAY DEAD AND DAMAGED BRANCHES

Where tree or shrub branches have been damaged by cold, ice and wind, prune back to live stems; use a handsaw for any larger than ½ inch in diameter. Prune summer-flowering shrubs, such as Rose of Sharon, before buds swell, but wait to prune spring bloomers, like forsythia, until after they flower.

2. RAKE LEAVES & CLEAN BEDS

Rake out fallen leaves and dead foliage (which can smother plants and foster disease), pull up spent annuals, and toss in a wheelbarrow with other organic yard waste. Once the threat of frost has passed, remove existing mulch to set the stage for a new layer once spring planting is done. Push heaved plants back into flower beds and borders, tamping them down around the base with your foot, or use a shovel to replant them. Now is a good time to spread a pelletized fertilizer tailored to existing plantings on the soil's surface so that rain (oh, please) can carry it to the roots. Add a 5-10-10 fertilizer around bulbs as soon as they flower to maximize bloom time and feed next season's growth. Use pins to fasten drip irrigation lines that have come loose and a square-head shovel to give beds a clean edge and keep turf grass from growing into the beds.

3. COMPOST YARD WASTE

Dump collected leaves, cuttings, spent foliage, and last season's

mulch into your compost pile, or make a simple corral by joining sections of wire fence (available at home centers) into a 3-by-3by-3-foot cube. Shred leaves and chip branches larger than ½ inch in diameter to accelerate decomposition or add a bagged compost starter to the pile. Keep the pile as moist as a wrung-out sponge and aerate it with a pitchfork every two weeks. Just don't add any early spring weeds that have gone to seed—they might not cook completely and could sprout instead.

4. CLEAN PATHS AND WALKWAYS

Rake escaped gravel back into aggregate walkways and patios, and order more gravel to spread in large depressions, which often form near the driveway's apron. Refill joints between flagstones by sweeping in new sand or stone dust; water with a hose to set it, then repeat. If the freeze-thaw cycle has heaved pavers out of place, remove them and replenish the base material as needed before setting pavers back in. Use a pressure washer with a lowpressure tip to remove slippery algae spots or leaf stains from patios and walkways.

5. PATCH OR REPLACE AND PAINT WORN WOOD

Remove badly rotted or damaged pickets, boards, or lattice, then scrub wood structures clean with a mix of 2 gallons water, 2 quarts bleach, and 1 cup liquid soap; let dry. Patch rotted sections with wood epoxy; install new wood as needed. Check wobbly fence posts to see if they need replacing. Scrape off old paint, then sand wood all over with 60 grit to prep for a new finish coat. Once temperatures go above 50° F, brush on a new coat of paint or stain.

Adapted from an article from This Old House

MARCH Calendar of Events

EVERY SATURDAY

A DAY AT THE FARM AND FARMERS MARKET

9:00am to 1:00pm at Herff Farm

33 Herff Road – Boerne

Vendors will be set up at Herff Farm to supply you with some of your local favorites. Check their calendar for special events and programs each week.

OLD JAIL MUSEUM TOURS

10:00am to 5:00pm at The Old Jail Museum

208 E. San Antonio Ave. – Boerne

Tour the Old Jail Museum and enjoy its unique exhibits.

MARCH 1

GBCC RIBBON CUTTING FOR TWINKLE TOES NANNY AGENCY

11:30am to 12:00pm

121 S Main St – Boerne

MARCH 2

GBCC RIBBON CUTTING FOR IT’S IN THE BOOKS!

2:30pm to 3:00pm

121 S Main St – Boerne

MARCH 6

GBCC RIBBON CUTTING FOR 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF GRAHAM MONUMENT

10:00am to 10:30am

801 S Main St – Boerne

100TH ANNIVERSARY OF GRAHAM MONUMENT DEDICATION AT VETERANS PLAZA

9:30am to 11:00am

801 South Main Street – Boerne

The City of Boerne is inviting everyone to attend the 100th anniversary of the dedication of the Graham Monument in Veterans Park. It is one of four original park sites established in the early days of

the community.

MARCH 7

GBCC RIBBON CUTTING FOR ALIGN CHIROPRACTIC AND WELLNESS

1:30pm to 2:00pm

22015 IH 10, Suite 206 – Boerne

MARCH 9

GBCC RIBBON CUTTING FOR DOS PALOMAS RANCH

11:30am to 12:00pm

943 FM 473 – Boerne

MARCH 11 - MARCH 12

BOERNE MARKET DAYS

10:00am to 4:00pm at Main Plaza

100 N. Main Street – Boerne

Spend a day browsing the market and visiting the many downtown boutiques, galleries, and restaurants for a unique hill country experience. There are a variety of bargains to be found such as jewelry, plants,

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MARCH 11, MARCH 25

BLUEGRASS JAM AT THE AGRICULTURAL

11:00am to 1:00pm at The AgriCultural Museum

102 City Park Road – Boerne

Every second and fourth Saturdays of the month, bring your instrument and play along, or just come to listen to the Bluegrass Jam at The AgriCultural! (Formerly the Agricultural Heritage Museum) This event is free and open to the public.

KUHLMANN-KING MUSEUM TOURS

12:00pm to 3:00pm

Kuhlmann-King Historical Complex

402 E. Blanco Rd. – Boerne

Take a tour around the Kuhlmann- King property to step back in time.

MARCH 12

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME - SPRING FORWARD!

MARCH 16

LIVE! AT THE LIBRARY

7:00pm to 9:00pm

Patrick Heath Public Library Amphitheater

451 N Main St – Boerne

Live! At the Library in March will feature The Katie Shore Trio. This program is free and open to the public. Since the program is held outside at the Amphitheater, please bring a lawn chair or blanket.

MARCH 18

MUSIC IN THE CAVE - SPRING EQUINOX

7:00pm to 9:00pm at Cave Without A Name

325 Kreutzberg Rd. – Boerne

Experience a unique musical experience down in the Queen’s Throne Room at the Cave Without A Name.

MARCH 20

FIRST DAY OF SPRING

MARCH 23

GBCC RIBBON CUTTING FOR SCHWEITZER ENGINEERING LABORATORIES

11:30am to 12:00pm

116 Herff Rd., Suite 202 – Boerne

GBCC RIBBON CUTTING FOR LOVE&SERVE WELL

1:30pm to 2:00pm

121 S Main St – Boerne

MARCH 24

KEVIN FOWLER WITH KIN FAUX LIVE!

6:00pm to 11:00pm at The Roundup Music Venue

531 FM 3351 N – Boerne

Five Boerne Stores Awarded “Best Store” Title

BBoerne has some of the coolest stores and boutiques around! Folks come from all around to shop and brows our Hill Country mile, so it is no surprise that several of our local shops have earned the Shop Across Texas title of “Best Store”. Five stores, which include Handmade on Main, Ella Blue, Boutique Chloe Rose, 259 Home Market and The Dienger Trading Co. have earned this coveted designation. Shop Across Texas makes it their mission to be the expert on the best shopping in Texas. Their annual 2023 Best Stores in Texas list, aka the bible of Texas shopping, showcases the best of the best places to shop in Texas across 41 cities spanning the Lone Star State. They offer up the scoop on trendy stores, the best jewelry stores, unique Texas boutiques, the best furniture stores and even where to find the quaintest of antique stores. Check out their full list at shopacrosstexas.com.

Congratulations to these local stores who made the list! Be sure to stop in, shop around and tell them “way-to-go!”

BBM

continued on page 20

ORGANIZATION WITHIN TECHNOLOGY

by Anthony Gomez – ADKF

wWe constantly clean up our living spaces, our lifestyles, and even our way of thinking. However, people tend to overlook their computers as items that require routine cleaning. If you have ever found yourself dealing with a lagging computer or unable to locate an important file, consider taking time to get digitally organized. With a little effort and a just a few minutes, you can reorganize your electronic life and immediately notice improvements!

But why? The first, and most important, reason to organize your computer is to reduce stress levels! Getting organized does not mean digital perfection, but it is the difference between knowing which drawer to look in versus turning the whole house inside-out. While less stress is a great benefit, its side effects may be a more convincing reason to clean up your computer. Lower stress leads to a more comfortable work environment which can increase productivity. An organized digital workspace will reduce the need for a full computer search to locate one file, allowing you to maintain a positive workflow. Another reason to do some digital cleanup is to increase PC processing power, decrease program load times, decrease computer startup and login times, and generally make everything run faster. Overall, there are no drawbacks to taking time to organize your computer and while this list does not encompass every tip and trick, below are key steps you can take toward a digitally organized life.

First, you will want to clean up your computer desktop. According to your computer, anything located on your desktop is a file that could be needed immediately. Therefore, every time you login, your computer takes extra time to load these files, ensuring they are ready to open. If there is a file you only need once a year, there is no need for your computer to prepare it at every login.

The second thing you should do is create folders; the best place being under “Documents.” Setting and adhering to a file structure removes the anxiety and stress that comes with aimlessly searching for documents. Begin by making 10 folders to organize all your files into. Remember, you can add sub folders as you continue to organize. When sorting through your files, you may discover duplicates of documents. Removing the unnecessary

files will speed up your PC, make things easier to find, and reduce the risk of an important file accidentally being overlooked, lost, or made into a security vulnerability. However, if you still want the ease of viewing documents from your desktop, right click the newly created folder to create a shortcut which can be placed directly on your desktop with no adverse effects to speed or processing power.

Another area to clean up are your active folders, including downloads and temporary folders. The downloads folder should never be used as a primary storage location. The more items

An organized digital workspace will reduce the need for a full computer search to locate one file, allowing you to maintain a positive workflow.

in the folder, the slower every subsequent download becomes. Additionally, the computer treats the download folder as temporary storage; therefore, in the event of a system crash or power outage, downloaded documents are at risk of corruption. Move any pertinent files to a permanent location and delete the remainder. However, be sure to clean up the recycle bin too. Computers keep deleted files in the recycle bin, eating up processing power. If you no longer need the files, empty the recycle bin. Additionally, removing unnecessary programs will allow your PC to run smoother. We often download a program or use a specific tool for one task and never again. However, the program remains on our computer, using processing power and creating vulnerability risks over time. To prevent this, look at your control panel for all

installed applications. Keep programs limited to only what you need. This will improve computer speeds and ensure outdated software is not turned into a backdoor for hackers to access sensitive information.

The final tip is invaluable. Modern PCs allow users to setup computer tasks with Task Scheduler. This tool checks for updates, reboots your computer every night, and runs a computer defragmentation once a month. A defragmentation, or defrag, is an internal process that rearranges files on a hard drive for faster access. This will not change what you see, but rather it helps keep the internal programming organized and enables the computer to run faster. Set up only takes a few clicks and automates the computer to self-clean periodically. Specific steps can be found on all major manufacturers and software supplier websites.

Cleaning your digital space is incredibly beneficial and will make a noticeable improvement to your computer. You will find yourself grateful for getting organized sooner rather than later and may even find your own unique system. Regardless, there is no wrong way to get organized and clean up your digital life!

Anthony Gomez joined ADKF in 2021 as a System Support Specialist. He was born and raised in San Antonio and served ten years in the U.S. Navy. He has been a professional in the Information Technology field since 2006 and has certifications in Security+, Network+, and is a Microsoft Certified Professional.

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The Best in Women’s Healthcare – Close to Home!

NORTHEAST OB/GYN WELCOMES TWO NEW PROVIDERS TO MEET THE NEEDS OF THE GROWING BOERNE COMMUNITY

by Lauren Stumberg | photos by Steve Crawford with Brandwagon Productions

FFor over 25 years Northeast OB/GYN has been caring for women in the San Antonio and surrounding areas throughout all their ages and stages of life. They are a team of women’s healthcare specialists whose patients rely on them from their first gynecological exam through their pregnancies, menopause, and post-menopausal care.

In 2014, Northeast OB/GYN opened a location in Boerne due to the growing demand to accommodate their many patients from the area. After one year, they quickly realized they needed a bigger office space to meet the needs of their fast-growing clientele. They built their

own state-of-the-art building on the south end of Boerne, and over the years the practice has continued to grow alongside the Boerne community. To meet the demand of this growing area of the Texas hill country, they are excited to announce the addition of two new practitioners to the Boerne Northeast OB/GYN team, Dr. Christine Van Ramshorst and Nurse Practitioner, Cristina Bueche. “We are so thankful to the Boerne community! They have welcomed our practice with open arms and lots of new patients. We couldn’t be more excited to welcome Dr. Van Ramshorst and Nurse Practitioner Cristina Bueche

to our team to help us continue to meet the needs of the Boerne and hill country community,” said Michelle Bingham, NE/OBGYN Marketing Manager.

Dr. Christine Van Ramshorst, whose patients call her Dr. Van Ram, became an OB/GYN because she believes it is important for women to have an advocate for the many sensitive issues they facet. “I also love that OB/GYN is a mix of clinical medicine and surgery. It is always exciting, and no day is the same. Also, I don’t think delivering babies will ever get old,” said Dr. Van Ramshorst. “I really like to speak openly and honestly with my patients and want them to trust me. I am very understanding, but also don’t beat around the bush.”

Prior to joining Northeast OB/GYN, Dr. Ramshorst was an obstetrics hospitalist for five years and before that worked in private practice in San Antonio. “I was drawn to Northeast OB/GYN because it is an amazing group of people and physicians. With all of the different backgrounds, there is always someone to learn from and bounce ideas off of,” she added.

Dr. Van Ramshorst works at both the Boerne and Stone Oak locations of Northeast OB/GYN and sees all types of patients from teenagers to women in their seventies and eighties. While she treats patients experiencing both low-risk and high-risk pregnancies, she really enjoys being able to provide care and support for women experiencing high-risk pregnancies. According to Dr. Van Ramshorst, “Being able to help these women through those difficult pregnancies and have a safe delivery is very rewarding.”

“I have had the privilege of being inspired by mentors to understand that empathy is one of the most important things between a doctor and a patient. As women we have so many intimate things that we experience and as a doctor it is special to be a part of that. It is so important to have a doctor that you can really connect with and talk to because ultimately, we are not just caring for our patient, we are caring for her whole family.”

The other new addition to Northeast OB/GYN Boerne is Nurse Practitioner Cristina Bueche. “We love having a Nurse Practitioner on staff, and Cristina is such a wonderful addition to our practice. With her many years of Labor and Delivery experience and her love of helping women, she brings so much heart and knowledge to the role,” said Bingham.

Bueche has a passion for providing care for women with a holistic approach, while simultaneously having the ability to practice using traditional medicine when appropriate. “Women’s care is my passion,” said Bueche, FNP-C, “It is so vast. We can jump from birth control counseling, to guiding a couple through their first pregnancy, to treating women as they navigate through their menopausal years all in a day’s work. I love helping my patients in any time of need, and not to mention I thoroughly enjoy office procedures such as IUD/ Nexplanon insertions, L&Ds and pellet placements.

Prior to joining Northeast OB/GYN, Bueche worked at a women’s wellness clinic in Kerrville that provided

continued on page 18

Dr. Christine Van Ramshorst

Cristina Bueche, FNP-C

a lot of functional medicine focusing on bio-identical hormone replacement therapy. “I enjoyed seeing patient outcome with the use of the hormone therapy. Witnessing patients come back into the office and feeling almost alive again is exciting. It felt good to be able to help them with resolving their symptoms and even giving them a burst of energy,” said Bueche.

Before that, Bueche worked in Labor and Delivery for a total of ten years in San Antonio, Austin and the Kerrville area. She added, “I love that I have a background in L&D. I will always find the time to speak with patients at length about their birthing experience and what is to be expected; whether it is a repeat cesarean section, methods of induction, or process of spontaneous labor.

Nurse Practitioner Bueche is at Northeast OB/GYN’s Stone Oak office on Mondays and at the Boerne location Tuesday through Friday. She is happy to see anyone at any time for annuals, gynecology needs, or sudden and urgent visits. “I am so happy to be serving patients in the Boerne area, as well as the surrounding communities. I feel honored to see patients from Pleasanton all the way to Medina!”

Bueche is thrilled to be working with the team at Northeast OB/GYN. She added, “Prior to joining NE/OBYN I was given the opportunity to work with them at North Central Baptist Hospital in the Labor and Delivery unit. I was able to see the way that each of the physicians practiced and fell in love with all of them. They provide good, conservative care. Safe care is given by the doctors of Northeast OB/GYN and it has been wonderful to work with and learn from them.”

Considering herself to be very open and honest with her patients, Bueche feels she has a more casual approach when it comes to her patients. “Coming into a doctors appointment, especially an obstetrics appointment can be intimidating. It is a very vulnerable appointment. I have found that being upfront and creating a nice rapport with your patients reassures them that they are in good hands and we are here to develop a plan of care together.”

Throughout her years of practice, Bueche has found that she particularly

enjoys being able to educate and offer support and guidance to young women as they navigate their way through their teen years. “Many times, it is difficult for the young patient to approach their parents. Being available to talk and provide guidance so that they are obtaining education from a reputable source is very important to me, both as a mother and provider,” she added.

“I have also found that I love providing support to mothers expecting a child with any anomaly/birth defect. My youngest was cleft affected and during the pregnancy it seemed daunting. We had appointments with every type of specialist you can think of and it was overwhelming. Having gone through that, I enjoy helping parents with an unexpected pregnancy story whether it be through education, a referral to a surgeon or specific therapist that may be needed. Letting that mom know that it will be okay, and we are here for them, is extremely important to me,”said Bueche.

In addition to Dr. Christina Van Ramshorst and Nurse Practitioner Cristine Bueche, Dr. Scott Farhart, Dr. Heather Caddell, Dr. Ashley Gleaves, and Dr. Liz Brackett see patients at Northeast OB/GYN’s Boerne location. They even have plans to add another provider in late 2023 as well! Their physicians are Board Certified/Board Eligible in Obstetrics and Gynecology, and share a commitment to treat their patients with compassion and courtesy. Northeast OB/GYN’s number one priority is providing the highest level of women's healthcare available with a commitment to always placing the patient first.

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS | cont’d

MARCH 24

BOERNE PERFORMING ARTS PRESENTS

THE PEKING ACROBATS

7:30pm to 9:30pm at the Boerne Champion Auditorium

201 Charger Blvd – Boerne

THE PEKING ACROBATS will astound, amaze, and amuse in a performance that epitomizes family fun! In an all-new production, they are joined by members of the Shanghai Circus.

GBCC RIBBON CUTTING FOR GOOD GUYS LANDSCAPING AND MAINTENANCE

1:30pm to 2:00pm

120 Stonegate S. – Boerne

MARCH 25

OUTDOOR FAMILY FAIR

10:00am to 2:00pm at Main Plaza Park

100 N. Main St. – Boerne

The Outdoor Family Fair provides Kendall County families the opportunity to learn about local services and organizations that are available in Boerne and surrounding areas. This community-focused event features entertainment and fun for the whole family. Stop by the booths to learn about the different organizations and play some games.

JOSH ABBOTT BAND LIVE & 3RD ANNUAL BBQ COOK OFF

6:00pm to 11:00pm

The Roundup Music Venue

531 FM 3351 N – Boerne

Josh Abbott Band takes over The Roundup Stage during their 3rd Annual BBQ Cook Off. Doors open at 6pm - Mario Flores & The Sodacreek Band 8pm to 9pm, Josh Abbott 9:30pm to 11:00pm

MARCH 28

GBCC RIBBON CUTTING FOR PERSPIRE SAUNA STUDIO DOMINION

11:30am to 12:00pm

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MARCH 30

GBCC RIBBON CUTTING

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1:30pm to 2:00pm

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THE GRAY DIVORCE BOOM

by Kim Painter

F DDuring her long marriage, Brenda Frank, 82, says she paid “absolutely no attention” to family finances. The former real estate agent left all the details to her husband, even in the years after he retired, when she was still working. So when he asked for a divorce, 12 days before their 56th anniversary, she was unprepared for what came next: a settlement process that, she says, left her with much less than she thought was fair.

Frank blames herself, she says, for not knowing enough about her finances or divorce law and then rushing to complete the painful and costly process.

“I gave him free rein,” says Frank. “He did nothing wrong.” Frank lives in Hollywood, Florida, and has written two books: Divorced After 56 Years: Why Am I So Happy? and Life Has No Expiration Date: Misadventures of a Single Senior.

Divorce, at any age, comes with emotional costs. But, as Frank learned the hard way, a so-called gray divorce—a marital breakup after age 50—can also cost a lot of money, as years or decades of interrelated finances and acquired assets typically require extensive work to sort out.

“Divorce is definitely a financial hit for almost everyone,” and older couples face some extra challenges, says Randi Albert, an attorney who is a divorce mediator in Scotch Plains, New Jersey.

The costs can be especially steep, experts say, for people who go into the process with too little information or planning.

Regardless of marital status, “it’s important to be aware of all your financial ins and outs, whether you are the money person in a relationship or not,” says Karl Eggerss, a CAPTRUST financial advisor in Boerne, Texas.

Even those who are happily married need to understand their personal finances to make good financial decisions. Yet Eggerss says he often sees couples rely on one person for financial management while the other partner remains disengaged.

CAPTRUST Financial Advisor Catherine Seeber, from Lewes, Delaware, agrees: “It’s common for one person to make all the financial decisions. I strongly encourage anyone who’s going through or considering divorce to talk to a financial advisor and understand all the things they need to gather to educate themselves. Otherwise, it can turn into a very emotional and reactive situation. Remember, a lot of irrevocable decisions are going to be made during this time.”

The Gray Divorce Trend

Gray divorce is much more common than it once was. Even as the overall U.S. divorce rate fell, the rate of divorce at age 50 and over doubled between 1990 and 2010, according to researchers at Bowling Green State University (BGSU). Since 2010, divorce rates over age 65 have continued to rise. Someone over age 65 was three times more likely to get a divorce in 2019 than in 1990.

More than one-third of all U.S. divorces now occur among people over age 50, researchers say. What’s causing all this laterlife divorce?

Conventional wisdom says such divorces happen when a suddenly empty nest, a retirement, or a health crisis puts a rocky marriage to a test it simply can’t pass. But a recent study found no link between those transitions and post-50 divorce, says I-Fen Lin, a professor of sociology at BGSU.

Instead, Lin says, the trend is driven by generational shifts. Because baby boomers—now ages 58 to 76—entered adulthood just as divorce gained wide acceptance, they’ve remained more likely to divorce than generations before or after them. This is a

generation that believes “it’s better to be alone than to be in an unhappy marriage,” she says. There’s also a snowball effect because remarriages are two and a half times more likely to end in divorce than first marriages. So remarried baby boomers often end up divorcing again. Today’s aging couples also live longer, giving them more time to divorce.

Another factor may be financial. According to Lin’s research, the odds of gray divorce are 38 percent lower for those with more than $250,000 in assets than those with $50,000 or less.

Lin and her colleague, Susan Brown, looked at the financial fallout of gray divorce and found a sobering picture, especially for women. Divorced women over age 50 see an average 45 percent drop in their standards of living after divorce, and men see a 21 percent drop. Men and women each lose about half of their wealth, including real estate, investments, savings, and other property, most likely as a direct result of divorce settlements.

If they remarry within a decade, most women regain their living standards and some of their wealth. But three-quarters stay single, Lin says. Remarriage does not help men regain their living standards or wealth. And because of their ages, gray divorcees have limited time to rebuild wealth in the future.

Do Your Homework

Fortunately, experts say, there are things you can do to soften such financial blows.

Eggerss says his first piece of advice is to take it slow unless there are strong reasons for haste. He likens the period around a marital breakup to the period around a death, when it’s wise to delay major life changes. “When people are under stress, they’re going to make really bad financial decisions,” he says.

That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t think about money. On the contrary, it’s crucial to do your homework on what assets, debts, income, and expenses you and your spouse have—and how a divorce might affect your bottom line, Eggerss and other experts say.

“I think a lot of people are putting finances on the back burner,” Eggerss says, “and then make this decision before they have really thought through whether they can afford to do it.”

If you haven’t paid close attention to family finances in the past, it’s especially crucial to get up to speed. Start by gathering account passwords, Seeber says: “Ensure you have online access to anything and everything financial.” You will want to see everything from your spouse’s credit report to their Social Security statements.

Keeping communication open and civil will make information exchanges easier, Eggerss says. Whatever you do, he says, don’t try dirty financial tricks, like funneling money into new accounts you

hope to hide from your spouse. Such maneuvers are likely to be uncovered, he says: “You are not going to get away with it.”

Negotiate a Settlement

If you decide to move forward with a divorce, you and your spouse might hire separate divorce lawyers and battle over details or hire a mediator and work together on an agreement. Randi Albert, the New Jersey mediator, says some couples litigate part of their settlement and use a mediator to work

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through less contentious issues.

Also important to know: Nine states—Arizona, California, Idaho, Louisiana, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin— have community property laws that dictate an even split of all assets and debts built up during the marriage. Other states call for a fair and equitable split that considers factors like each spouse’s earning potential and contributions, such as childrearing. Those rules apply if a couple hasn’t worked out their own property agreement before getting to court.

“People are more likely to follow an agreement that they’ve developed on their own, as opposed to one that was foisted upon them by the court,” Albert says. “So if you have the kind of relationship dynamic that allows you to work together, it’s definitely the way to go.”

Fairly dividing assets isn’t easy though. “It’s really not advisable to just put numbers on paper,” Seeber says, and decide, for example, that one spouse will take a house valued at $1 million and another will take investments valued at $1 million. You need to consider home maintenance costs and the tax hit you might take after an eventual sale, she says. If your money is tied up in a home, will you have cash available when you need it? Will you have enough credit to borrow in the future? If you are receiving an investment account, are proceeds taxable, or not? “You have to run the long-term projection to be able to say that, in 10 years, you really still are equal,” Seeber says.

Albert and her partner, family therapist Michele Weinberg, say they encourage divorcing spouses to run draft property agreements past separate financial advisors as well as separate attorneys.

Weinberg cautions that some gray divorcees will need to work

years longer or go back to work after retirement to pay alimony or cover new living costs. “Sometimes, people who have never worked or have worked in a limited way now have to find a fulltime job,” she says.

Couples who own a business together will face additional challenges. Will the business be sold, bought out by one spouse, or reorganized with two ex-spouse owners? The last is a fraught situation most people reject, Weinberg notes.

Divorce typically also means reconsidering everything from wills to plans for long-term care. Someone who expected a spouse to care for them in their later years will now need other options. That might mean moving in with a friend or jump- starting a move to an over-55 or assisted living community, says Eggerss.

Frank, the Florida divorcee and author, says she’s been able to stay happily single in her own apartment. She’s doing just fine now, she says. But she does share this advice for anyone going through a late-life divorce: “A second pair of eyes and ears, even from a trusted friend, can save you time, money, and grief. Don’t sign or agree to anything without having someone else review it.”BBM

Karl Eggerss is a principal based out of Boerne, Texas. At CAPTRUST, he provides insightful planning and investment guidance to clients and is a valuable addition to the team through strategic research, due diligence, and portfolio construction. Throughout his career, Karl has enjoyed offering opinions on the state of the economy and the financial markets whenever possible. He has hosted a syndicated radio show airing in Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Colorado Springs, and Denver. Karl has been a frequent contributor on various financial news networks, including CNBC, CNBC Asia, Bloomberg, Fox Business, and Reuters. Currently, he hosts a weekly podcast called “Creating Richer Lives,” focusing on living a richer life beyond bank account balances. captrust.com/boerne

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Spring Break in Boerne

MMarch is here and that means Spring Break! If you aren’t headed out to the beach or squeezing in one last ski trip there is still plenty of fun to be had right here at home!

THE OLD JAIL MUSEUM

The Kendall County Historic Jail was constructed in 1887 and served for a century as the county jail. In recent years, the Friends of the Kendall County Historic Jail (FKCHJ) have painstakingly restored the space, bringing it back to life as a oneof-a-kind museum of Kendall County history. Explore the jail cells, learn about the Fabulous Topperweins, Apelt Armadillo Farm, the Bat Bomb and so much more.

208 E. San Antonio Avenue | Check thejail.org for hours

BOERNE CITY LAKE PARK

There is plenty of fun to be had at the Boerne City Lake! The park includes amenities such as a fishing pier, picnic units with grills, a playground, volleyball court, 9-hole disc (frisbee) golf course, boat dock, butterfly garden and more!

1 City Lake Road – Boerne | boerneparks.com

CASCADE CAVERNS

Experience the mystery and wonder of Cascade Caverns with one of their cave tours such as the Daily Downunder Tour, the Adventure Tour or the Evening 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 Quarry where you can mine for unique minerals, rocks, gems and fossils! 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

HIT THE TRAILS AT THE CIBOLO NATURE CENTER

From the serious trail enthusiast to families with young children and dogs, everyone can find something to enjoy. In all seasons, the trails offer new experiences and opportunities to connect with nature. The Cibolo Nature Center offers miles of trails for the enjoyment of all ages and abilities. Visitors can enjoy more than six miles of trails which cover a huge variety of natural landscapes. The full trail circle will take about two hours, but a variety of different loops and routes allow for a new adventure with every visit.

140 City Park Road – Boerne (830) 249-4616 | Cibolo.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 designated fishing areas allow anglers to test the waters. There are two age-progressive play areas to keep the kids entertained as well. There is also an enclosed dog park for small and large dogs.

716 FM 289 – Comfort kendallcountyparks.org

TAKE A STROLL ON RIVER ROAD PARK

This is one of the most popular park sites in Boerne. Located on the banks of the Cibolo Creek, it is home to numerous varieties of wild ducks and geese. Grab a bite to eat and a craft brew across the street at The Dodging Duck before you head over, or plan for a picnic at one of the parks picnic tables. While you are there, check out the Dietert Mill Dam and do some fishing on one of the fishing piers.

415 River Road – Boerne | boerneparks.com

ARROWS ACTIVE PLAY PARK

An indoor playground and cafe that offers families a relaxed atmosphere with unlimited play time on thier three-story high playground. Also available, their Café serving delicious gourmet sandwiches, fresh baked goods, and specialty coffee. Free Wi-fi is also available if you have to work between having fun!

3 Kelton Avenue – Boerne arrowsactiveplayparkboerne.com BBM

Greater Boerne ChamBer of CommerCe feBruary uttinGs

StewartMadison is a military spouse owned executive search firm and consultancy group. They are primarily focused on recruitment of professionals and executives for Corporate America with a primary focus in medical device, pharmaceutical, biotech, banking, insurance and finance sectors. They work hand in hand with many Fortune 500 companies, and also work to help military veterans and military spouses transition to the civilian workforce.Whether you’re an employer or a candidate, go to stewartmadison. com to learn more about the company or give StewartMadison a call at (210) 504-6132 today! Congrats, StewartMadison!

Summit Bariatric and Robotic Surgical Specialists are proud to offer bariatric and minimally-invasive general surgery in Boerne, TX. With a unique blend of surgical expertise and patient-centered care, Summit Bariatrics helps patients improve their short and long-term health outcomes through minimally-invasive weight loss surgery. Dr. Farrer and the surgical team use the Da Vinci Surgical System to perform ultra-minimally invasive robotassisted procedures that deliver optimal care and minimize recovery time. To learn more about Summit Bariatrics, please call (830) 233-8150, go to summitbariatrics.com or stop by and visit them at 1201 S. Main St., Suite 111 in Boerne. Congrats again to the Summit Bariatrics team!

Omnia Outdoors is a pool company with years of experience creating exciting pools that are unique to each clients’ needs. They strive to achieve exceptional craftsmanship, integrity, and customer service. They build complete outdoor living environments including custom pools and spas, patios, outdoor kitchens and landscapes. To learn more about their services, get in contact, or to see past projects, go to omniaoutdoors.com! You may also give them a call at (210) 865-7784 or stop by and visit them at 1201 S. Main St. in Boerne. Welcome to the Chamber, Omnia Outdoors!

Real Property Management Hill Country does more than just manage properties, they deliver peace of mind! They help you protect your investment, provide comprehensive professional service, minimize your costs and maximize your income. They’re 100% focused on providing quality residential property management service to property owners and residents.With over 30 years of nationwide experience, their services are priced to fit any budget. To learn more, give Real Property Management Hill Country a call at (210) 571-1780 or go to rpmhillcountry.com.

Now headquartered in Boerne, WoundLocal is the fastest growing wound care service provider in Texas! They work with various providers and facilities, including nursing facilities, hospice, home health, and wound care centers to bring industryleading wound care technology to patients. If you would like to learn more, or to get in contact with them, call (877) 988-7420, visit their website woundlocal.com or email Christiana at christiana.jurca@woundlocal.com today! Congrats, WoundLocal and welcome to our community!

Living Waters Family Wellness aims to provide their patients with the highest quality care founded upon a healing patient-provider relationship. They holistically address all aspects of health and healing, including physical, mental, emotional, familial, and spiritual health. They are a home and telemedicine-based Direct Primary Care Practice that cuts insurance out of the picture to forge a direct healing relationship with each and every patient.To learn more, give Living Water Family Wellness a call at (210) 755-0271 or go to livingwatersfamilywellness.com!

KELLER WILLIAMS BOERNE HOSTS FIRST RESPONDERS APPRECIATION LUNCH

TThis past Valentine’s Day the team at Keller Williams Boerne invited local First Responders to stop in and enjoy lunch at their office or drive-up, pick-up lunch and go. “This was our first year to host the Appreciation Event, but definitely will not be our last,” said Nelly Strey, Hill Country Director & Concierge for KW Boerne and KW City View. “Our KW agents have been wanting to put together an event for several months to thank our first responders. Keller Williams always enjoys giving back to the communities in which we work in, and here in Boerne is no different. The Keller Williams Boerne agents truly enjoyed hosting and giving thanks to our first responders face to face for all they do for our community. Our KW Boerne agents will continue hosting the event for years to come!”

Approximately 75 Boerne area First Responders were served at the lunch on February 14th. Among the attendees were Animal Care Services, EMS, Fire Fighters, Police, Sheriff, and State Troopers.

Keller Williams Boerne would also like to give special thanks to the event’s sponsoring vendors – Gold Financial Services, Alamo Smart Homes, ATG Photography, Goosehead Insurance SextonThompson Agency, Chicago Title, Fidelity

Home Warranty.

Strey added, “Everyone at Keller Williams Boerne had a wonderful time being able to honor our First Responders and thank them for their service. We can’t wait until next time!”