September 2020
An exclusive magazine serving the residents of Canyon Lake
MIKE FISHER
“Work Hard ~ Play Harder” Cover photo by Sam Roberts Photography
Hello Canyon Lake Neighbors,
Publication Team September 4-5, 2020 KENDALL COUNTY OPEN PRO RODEO @ Boerne Annual event by Lester Meier Rodeo Company September 5, 2020 HILL COUNTRY FUN FEST @ Bulverde, at Jumbo Evans Sports Park, Jumbo Evans Blvd. Annual event. Fireworks, live music, vendors, fun activities for kids, food and drink booths. Time: 6:00 – 10:00pm Cost: Free September 6, 2020 KENDALL COUNTY OPEN PRO RODEO @ Boerne Annual event by Lester Meier Rodeo Company September 5, 2020 KIMBLE KOUNTY LABOR DAY CELEBRATION, BBQ COOK-OFF & KOW KICK FAMILY FUN FESTIVAL @ Junction, at City Park along the South Llano River - Off Loop 481. Annual event, along the South Llano River, with arts, crafts, food booths, games-rides, fiddler contest. September 13, 2020 JCVFD ANNUAL FISH FRY & RAFFLE FUNDRAISER @ Johnson City, at Blanco County Fair Grounds, US-281 North. Drive through plus raffle.
Publisher | Linda Shelton
SEPTEMBER 2020 September 19, 2020 HEADWATERS FOR HEROES COMBAT VETERAN & GOLD STAR BENEFIT @ Harper, at Headwaters Saloon, 229 RR-783 South. Sporting Clay Shoot, car show, arts and craft vendors, food vendors, live music all day long, crawfish boil and BBQ meal, Live auction with hunts, guns, and many other awesome items. Gun raffles, 50/50 raffle, and door prizes. September 19, 2020 BANDERA BUCKWILD RODEO @ Bandera Annual event by Lester Meier Rodeo Company September 19, 2020 UTOPIAFEST DOWN IN THE OAKS @ Burnet, at Reveille Peak Ranch. New location. Guests will enjoy world class music production, as well as a wide variety of workshops and activities, creating a wellrounded festival experience. Cost: Free camping. BYOB. Attendance is capped at 2,000. Weekend passes for adults start at $159, but prices vary for kids and the number of days attending.
September 26, 2020 CASTELL GENERAL STORE WINE FIESTA & TRADE DAYS @ Castell, 19522 West RR-152. Many wineries represented. You will have a "Barrel of a Good Time!" Live music, door prizes, classic car show at 11a. Time: 1:30 – 5:00pm September 26, 2020 MUTT STRUTT @ San Marcos, at Plaza Park. This 1-mile dog walk and pet fair includes dog races, pet contests, arts, crafts, food and prizes. Dogs must be on leash. Benefits San Marcos Animal Shelter. Live music, door prizes, complimentary donuts, coffee. Time: 9:00am – 1:00pm September 26-27, 2020 TEXAS CORVETTE ASSN OPEN CAR SHOW @ Boerne, Main Plaza, 100 N Main Street. Beautiful classic cars and Corvettes set in a backdrop of the Texas Hill Country: Entertainment, raffle, music, silent auctions and door prizes. Cost: Free Time: 10:00am – 5:00pm
September 19 • ShotGun start 10am
4 Person Scramble open to Public, Cash Prizes
LAKESIDE GOLFCLUB, 405 WATTS LANE, CANYON LAKE, TX, 78133 To ensure your and our staff’s safety while you’re enjoying a round of golf, we are closely monitoring the situation around COVID-19 and are following CDC, State, and County orders. Follow us on Facebook or check our website for updated information www.lakesidegolfclubinc.com SEPTEMBER 2020
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Designer | Jennifer Heinrich Contributing Photographer| Sam Roberts Photography Proof Reader | Patricia Cahill Contributing Writer | Debra Eanes ~ Wild Birds Unlimited Contributing Writer | Thomas Anderson, Canyon Lake Senior Home Care
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Contact: Linda Shelton Email: lshelton@bestversionmedia.com Phone: 832-623-5600
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Emergency................................................................911 Comal County Sheriff............................ 830-885-4883 .......................................................... and 877-724-9475 Fire Department..................................... 830-907-2922 Village/City/Town Hall......................... 830-438-3612 Library..................................................... 830-438-4864
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CANYON LAKE FIRE & EMS FUNDRAISER GOLF TOURNAMENT
• Golf open daily to the public Memberships available for everyone, even for non-golfers • Try the 19th hole bar & grill for great lunches and cocktails Variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages available
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Content Due: Edition Date: June 5........................................................................ July July 5....................................................................August August 5....................................................... September September 5......................................................October October 5......................................................November November 5.................................................. December December 5........................................................January January 5......................................................... February February 5............................................................March March 5.................................................................. April April 5.......................................................................May May 5....................................................................... June
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To learn more about becoming an expert contributor, contact BVM at lshelton@bestversionmedia.com or by phone at 832-623-5600.
H
appy September, y’all! Well, we have officially entered the last quarter of 2020. I am not really sure where the year has disappeared to, or how it seemed to vanish before our eyes. When I talked with my grandson, Zach, the other day, our conversation focused on how short summer seemed, how long it is until Christmas, and how it’s ages until he can get his driver’s license! As I look back on my youth, I am sure I felt the same way. It seems the older we get, the more quickly time passes. I have now officially begun my Christmas shopping with the goals of completing it prior to the first of November and getting it all wrapped by Thanksgiving. It sure does not seem like I have much time to accomplish my goals. For many, the celebration of Labor Day marks the wind down of summer and its various activities. Of course, the Hill Country offers us an extended season, as we have such warm weather through October. But Labor Day is more than “the end of summer,” it is the celebration of the labor movement in the United States and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. The first bill to honor workers passed in Oregon in 1887. In June 1894, Congress passed an act making the first Monday in September each year a legal holiday in the District of Columbia and the territories, in the beginning. The vital force of American labor has added materially to the highest standard of living and the greatest production the world has ever known and has brought us closer to the realization of our traditional ideals of economic and political democracy. It is more than appropriate, therefore, that the nation pays tribute on Labor Day to our country’s strength, freedom and leadership – embodied in the American worker. We also celebrate Grandparents Day on the 8th, Constitution Day on the 17th, the start of Fall (Autumnal Equinox) on the 23rd, National Voter Registration Day on the 24th, Pancake Day on the 26th, World Tourism Day on the 27th, National Drink Beer Day on the 28th, and National Coffee Day on the 29th. So, if you are looking for something to celebrate, you have a plethora of choices! Thank you, as always, to our Feature Cover story. Your time and sharing, appreciated by so many, help us all realize what a wonderful place, filled with special people, we are fortunate enough to call home. As always, I am putting the call out to those of you who have a neighbor, or someone in your circle of friends, whom you feel might be of interest to our community. Please do not be shy. I can always be reached at 832-623-5600 or by email lshelton@bestversionmedia.com, and I am truly delighted to speak with you, receive an email, or hear your ideas. This magazine is dedicated to all of you, and your ideas are always the best! Remember to shop locally and tell our business advertisers you appreciate their commitment to the magazine. Without all of them, there could or would not be this publication, which so many of you enjoy. Now, more than ever, we need to spend our dollars locally and keep our independent business owners successful. Your encouragement and loyalty to them has more intrinsic value than you realize. Have a great month! Celebrate something! Be safe and stay well. I will see you again next month and truly appreciate your continued comments. Happy Trails,
Linda Shelton Publisher
Dear Canyon Lake Residents,
L
ife is all about making good memories! I would love to hear about how you and your family celebrations, please send in your photos or events if you would like to add them to the Calendar of Events. I would also like to encourage you to send me referrals for feature families. As always, this is your magazine and it is our desire to highlight your neighborhoods. It has been such a great experience getting to know more about all of the families in the community over the last few years. Thank you for allowing me to a part of this amazing journey and sharing your stories with us month after month. Please remember that I love hearing from our readers!
Any content, resident submissions, guest columns, advertisements and advertorials are not necessarily endorsed by or represent the views of Best Version Media (BVM) or any municipality, homeowners associations, businesses or organizations that this publication serves. BVM is not responsible for the reliability, suitability or timeliness of any content submitted. All content submitted is done so at the sole discretion of the submitting party. © 2020 Best Version Media. All rights reserved.
Scarlet Biggs
Content Coordinator 3
Canyon Lake Living
Want to continue living at home?
themselves. Seniors with limited mobility may want to adopt a less demanding pet over a large dog with boundless energy that needs to be walked a few times a day. It takes a lot of money to care for a dog. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals puts the average annual cost of care at $875 for a large dog. In addition, before bringing home any pet, make sure it’s examined by a veterinarian to ensure it’s healthy. Pets can carry certain bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi that could be dangerous for older adults with compromised immune systems. Pets may also outlive their senior owners. Dogs live 10 to 12 years on average, so there is the sad possibility that a dog may outlive its owner.
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WHY SENIORS SHOULD CONSIDER OWNING A DOG. A recent survey suggested that senior adults can benefit from an animal companion. Eighty-eight percent of pet owners surveyed said that their pets helped them enjoy life, while eighty-six percent said their pets made them feel loved. Another poll had seventy-nine percent of senior pet owners saying that their pet helped them reduce their stress. While more than forty percent of seniors experience loneliness on a regular basis, encouraging seniors to adopt pets could improve their well-being. Among the surveyed seniors who lived alone, seventy-two percent said their pets helped them cope with physical or emotional symptoms. One study found that pets can ease pain. Two in five seniors who live alone reported that their pets help take their mind off pain. Pets can also help seniors stick to a routine. More than half of the surveyed
seniors said that caring for their critters helped them keep a routine, and seventythree percent said their pets provided a sense of purpose. In addition, pets make people more sociable. Sixty-five percent of the aging pet owners in the survey claimed that their animals connected them with other people. Finally, pets keep aging adults active. Seniors should get at least 2.5 hours of moderate aerobic exercise every week, or about 30 minutes on most days of the week. A 2017 study found dog walking in older adults was associated with more frequent moderate and vigorous exercise, as well as lower BMI and fewer doctor visits. IS THERE ANY DOWNSIDE TO OWNING A PET? A senior should not adopt a dog without considering how a pet will affect their lifestyle and their finances. Pets can also be physically demanding. That extra exercise a person gets from walking a dog or playing with their pet also comes with some physical risks such as falling or injuring
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HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST DOG FOR A SENIOR PERSON There are many advantages of dog ownership at any age, but it's important to find the right dog. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a dog: Energy level: Some breeds require more exercise than others and may become physically demanding to its owner. Size: Smaller dogs are easier to keep under control and are more suitable for seniors living in smaller places. Alternatively, docile larger dogs that don't require a lot of maintenance may be a good choice. Age: Older dogs may be better dogs for seniors to adopt than puppies that are super active and tend to chew and nip. Most dogs are considered to be "seniors" when they reach about age seven. Adult dogs are typically already housetrained and well-socialized with people. Mature dogs also tend to be the calmest dogs, with more predictable behavior patterns. Temperament: Dogs' temperaments are influenced by the genes they are born with as well as the way they are brought up. While
any dog can be raised to be friendly, some breeds are more naturally conditioned to be gentle and welcoming. Grooming requirements: Some breeds need to be bathed, trimmed, and clipped regularly, while others just need a quick brush every so often. WHAT TYPE OF DOG SHOULD I CONSIDER OWNING? Good dogs for seniors are ones that closely match their owners' abilities and preferences. Whether you're looking for a dog that's big or small, active or sedate, you can find a one that is right for you. Seniors have a wide range of needs and preferences, so the perfect pet for one senior may be entirely unsuitable for another. Some breeds have certain combinations of traits that make them popular choices for retirees. The best small companion dog is a matter of personal preference. Many older adults look for small, calm dogs that don't bark without a good reason and aren't over-exuberant. Bigger dogs are often very playful when they're outside, but calm when they're indoors. Provided you have a large yard or open space for them to burn off their energy, they can be very good companions. Amongst the dogs that may make a great dog for a senior include the Poodle, the Cavalier King Charles spaniel, the Boston terrier, the Maltese, the Pembroke Welsh corgi, the Beagle, the Pomeranian, the Chihuahua, the Pug, the Bichon fries, the French bulldog, the Shih tzu, the Havanese, the Lhasa Apso, the Bolognese, the Greyhound, the Labrador retriever, the Golden retriever, and the West Highland White Terrier. Wishing your well on your search as you select your new “Best Friend”!
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RESIDENT FEATURE
MIKE FISHER “Work Hard ~ Play Harder”
Call or Go Online for a FREE Estimate!
By Linda Shelton | Photos by Sam Roberts and Laszlo_Andacs
(830) 515-5199
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any of us jokingly refer to Canyon Lake as “Houston West,” since we have so many transplants electing to move from the city and make this incredible area their home. Mike Fisher is no exception!
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Getting to know Mike over the past few months has been an interesting endeavor and I admire his drive, ambition, desire to succeed, work ethic, and the fiber of his moral core. Upon first introduction, Mike appeared to be very different than the man I have become better acquainted with and realize he is not just another “city boy” coming to the country. Mike comes from a long line of military service. Mike’s father was in the Navy and stationed in Jacksonville, Florida when Mike arrived in the world. His dad, a native of Kansas, returned to Hutchinson, Kansas following his discharge and followed in the family legacy of farming. As many know, farming is not for the faint of heart and requires hard work and tenacity; many years, it is a roll of the dice with Mother Nature to see who will win. “People are a lot stronger than they give themselves credit for, and adversity is only what you make of it. One can choose to be an underdog or rise to the moment. Personally, I always root for the underdog, maybe because in my early years, I felt as if that was me,” Mike states. Mike has worked since he was a youngster because life was meager, and he realized early on, that if he was going to achieve anything in life, he was going to have to go after it with a vengeance. The young man wanted an education, which his family could not afford, so Mike joined the Army Reserve as a means of attaining what he so vehemently desired. Working his way through college, the industrious student completed his degree in 3 ½ years! Mike credits college with not only his formal education but also with some practical knowledge that has served him well. “A date will never be as cheap as it was in college. Never trust the media. How you treat yourself and your body will determine how everything else will formulate itself. One quarter
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of one’s instincts comes from attitude, and attitude determines your fate.” These wise words to live by have been the foundation of Mike’s success. Desert Storm rolled around and Mike, like many others, prepared for the arduous campaign that happily lasted only a blink of the eye! Mike shares he really wanted to serve and requested he have the opportunity to do so. I believe his exact words were “let me at it!” But the operation was over and victory more the order of the day. With a Marketing/Psychology diploma almost in hand, he came to Dallas, Texas on Spring Break with several interviews already lined up. A childhood friend, whom Mike knew when they were both paperboys, offered him a place to stay, and this became his crash pad for the time he was in town. The daytime was packed with prospective employment opportunities, and Mike was offered a position with a large rent-to-own corporation. Accepting readily, he found himself in Ft Worth in 1990, gainfully employed and making more money than he ever had in his life. His hard work impressed management, and Mike rose quickly in the company, making many moves as he became more and more involved, with more persons reporting to him, and taking on more responsibility. However, Mike readily admits that, while he was making a great living, this was not what he wanted for the rest of his life. So, he began to carefully analyze what his next step would be. In 2005, Mike made a change, and entered the Financial Industry. Investments and Financial Planning had a real attraction, and there was a natural fit, coupled with an incredible amount of hard work. Mike maintains strong ties in his relationships, building his business carefully, one client at a time. Affiliating himself with numerous organizations and referral groups, his business is a direct reflection of his professional commitments and hard work. Laughing, Mike shares a story that some may find difficult to understand; however, I get it, as I, too, was so focused on my work life that I hardly had time for a personal life. It seems Mike was living in Clear Lake and wasn’t even aware there was a lake in town because he worked so much! When someone mentioned it to him, he was taken aback and thought the person was poking fun at him. Extremely articulate, it was interesting to hear Mike discuss the Shuttle explosion as one of the worst moments in history he can recall. Another was 9/11 and how shocking it was to every single American, especially patriotic individuals such as he. Lastly, he recalls being in drafting class when Ronald Regan was shot and how people remained quiet, unable to process what had just transpired. Each of us has important “historic” moments etched in our minds, which become part of our persona, even if we not aware of how they have influenced us. Extremely patriotic, Mike believes America is the only country to afford its citizens the ability to excel without any limitations, citing himself as an example. “Our flag is another brilliant example of the vibrancy of America, demonstrating everything our country stands for. America is a land of incredible beauty and diversity. Appreciating what America stands for inspires me to be a better person. Personally, I never feel quite so free and inspired as when I am flying or skydiving,” Mike proudly states. continued on page 8
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Canyon Lake Living
continued from page 7
I loved the response Mike gave when I asked what his favorite vacation spot is. He smiled and replied, “The last place I‘ve been!” One of his fondest memories is hiking through the rain forest in Puerto Rico. Plus, after leaving Puerto Rico, he stopped off at several of the islands that have always appealed to his sense of adventure. Speaking of islands, Maui is another gorgeous spot he enjoys. Naturally, I had to ask how a fellow from Kansas, living in Houston, found his way to the Hill County. When a friend in his office mentioned, “I’m going to the Hill Country this weekend,” Mike’s sense of curiosity came into play, and he struck out to see what all this “Hill Country” talk was about. He instantly fell in love with the beauty of our area, making a firm commitment to this being his retirement home. Currently, Mike has a 5-acre place off Purgatory Road. Beginning in 2016, he began to slowly purchase contiguous parcels in Mystic Shores, until he owned 23 acres on both sides of the creek encompassing Devil’s Hollow. Here he will soon begin to build his home. Mike enjoys coming up here to clear, plan, and create his own “slice of paradise.” Mike has also purchased another 4-acres in Mystic Shores as more of an investment. Will Mike ever truly retire? I think semi-retirement is more his speed. Long term, he desires to work from home, enjoy the nature all around him, and wake up/go to sleep with the sounds of nature our incredible area offers. Our conversation drifted to his home in the Houston area, and he feels as if he will keep that, along with creating his dream place here. With the world getting turned upside down as of late, he has re-evaluated his plan and is actively working with an architect. Within the year, Mike plans to have “sticks in the air,” as he oversees the building process. Fortunately for him, his Purgatory location gives him a place to stay during the process and is close enough for him to be onsite at a moment’s notice. As we continued our conversation about his building endeavors and his land here, Mike shared that 11 is his favorite number, and his property address just happens to be 1122! Mike recounts, “Skydiving has been a “life changer” for me. It has given me more back than I can ever remunerate, both personally and business-wise. I have developed friendships that
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SEPTEMBER 2020
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have led to business associations. Life just keeps getting better and better. I would have to count Skydiving at the top of my list in terms of hobbies. One of the highlights of my Skydiving experiences would have to be Night Skydiving, with 64 of us jumping in Eloy, Arizona, in 2017! (see night photo in article on page 7) The previous record was 40 jumping in 2016, which I had also been in. I am 1 of 30 who has broken both records. Getting my Pro-Demonstration Level to do demos for crowds in sporting events was an accomplishment I value, and I am a now a regular on the ReMax Skydiving Team. When I observed a guy jumping into a Select stadium, I knew that was what I wanted to do. It’s a long way from the kid Color who bought sodas for 30 cents and sold them for 40 cents.” Format Mike, a voracious reader, credits his success to two books. Seven Habits for Successful People, by Stephen Covey, assists readers to envision what they want in the future so they can work and plan toward it. It is a principle-centered approach to both personal and interpersonal effectiveness. How To Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie was also of great help to Mike. While I totally understand this association, it is my opinion that it takes more than just reading something and putting it into practice. It takes hard work, commitment, determination, educating oneself, associating with successful people, never giving up, and that magic potion which no one can truly bottle. I see all of these in Mike. Yet, I also see a man with compassion, loyalty, and inner strength, who roots for the underdog and turns challenges into something positive with his laser focus. When I asked Mike what he would like people to know about him, his response was just what I expected, “Once I am full on, I am full on. I make up my mind, and I am reluctant to let it get away. I believe people are way stronger than they give themselves credit for, and if one taps into that strength, there isn’t much you cannot do. I always treat people how they treat me. I afford everyone the respect they deserve, and I live each day to the fullest.” S e l e c t L o c a t i on 1 Mike’s parents still live in Kansas and have shared 50+ years of married life. His father, a farmer, is still very active at 73. Mom is a homemaker and recently celebrated 74 years of life. Although Mike is a long way from Kansas, he has the industrious mid-west character, and it resonates in all he does. One can see how hard work and determination pay off when you use Mike as a poster person! Mike loves skydiving, but he loves to fly, as well. However, Mike almost didn’t get to fly! In the military, if you are color-blind, you cannot fly; it was a huge blow to him when he discovered no grace in this area. As times have changed, coupled with technology, Mike has been able to obtain his Commercial Helicopter License and leases a chopper for his use. As you can see from the photos, he shows his love of America, his love of the sport, and his passion all rolled into one. The journey of life has been an arduous one for this man, but one he relishes and appreciates. Not everyone likes who he or she is and where the path has taken them; however, Mike is certainly the exception to this. I encourage you to spend 10 minutes in conversation with this affable man, and you will come away with the same feeling. Thank you, Mike, for taking your time to share your story with us. Thank you for becoming a friend. Thank you for your commitment to the Hill Country and our Community. The complexity of individuals, all who make this area so special, is why we can proudly believe in the substance of this paradise we call home.
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Canyon Lake Living
Hill Country O
Experiences
ur area of Texas is filled with small towns, two lane roads, and miles of fencing, all which spread out from Austin westward and dip down a tad south, making up what Texans proudly call the Hill Country. What makes this small part of the big State of Texas so special? Could it be the surprises, the unexpected gems of rivers which wind through large stands of trees, reflective lakes, limestone rocks and canyons, or the charming, rustic German towns with unique names that some find challenging to pronounce? It’s always a dead giveaway when you hear someone flounder over names like Fredericksburg, New Braunfels, Boerne, Gruene, or Kerrville. And yet, within those names lies a tremendous amount of history and courage displayed by the first settlers who came here for a better life. The great scenery we appreciate and love comes in various forms depending on the season: in spring, we rejoice in the bluebonnets; summer brings the heat and outdoor activities on the water; in autumn, we delight in sunflowers and fall colors; and finally, the mild winter allows us to pause and dream of the promise of spring to come. Taking a ride to appreciate the Hill Country views is a delightful pastime. However, some of the best views are off the main rural roads; so, if you have the opportunity, do something daring and get “off road” to see parts of Texas you have not yet experienced.
the cold. Bring your inner child and visit one of these unique fun places for a refreshing cool down.
By Linda Shelton
on a rawboned longhorn steer. This road has lots of twists, so you will have to slow down to just a few miles per hour in several places; but the views are worth it. Depending on the time of year, you can see lots of color dotting the roadside as well, as you take in the majestic beauty of this particular drive. We cannot even fathom Texas without BBQ! Sometimes called a religion in Texas, there are few who do not take BBQ seriously. Others are quite outspoken on how, what, when, and why. From Llano, which is deep in granite country, to San Antonio, east to Lockhart and all parts in-between, BBQ is anything one cooks on a grill, from brisket, sausage, ribs, cabrito, to practically any cut of beef. And then there are the sides associated with the pit master’s choice of the day, which can range from potato salad, coleslaw, creamed corn, corn on the cob, bread and beans. But, don’t forget to save room for dessert! Many of us grew up swimming, not in pristine pools, but in the plentiful ponds, lakes and rivers in the Texas Hill Country. One of my favorites is the Blue Hole in Wimberley. Another is Hamilton Pool, a massive crater formed when the dome over an underground river caved in, outside the town of Bee Cave. Probably the most lush, least crowded swimming spot is Krause Springs in Spicewood, a privately owned 115-acre park that charges $7.00 (in cash only) to enter. 32 springs abound, several of which burble through a man-made pool and then tumble over a fern-lined cliff into a deep hole. Daring folks can use a rope swing to fly above the water, let go, and plunge into
Here’s another idea if a drive is more your speed, excuse the pun. Scenic Highway 16 from Kerrville to Medina is known as one of the most scenic in Texas. You will see white-flowering yucca plants, old live oaks, and grasses clinging to limestone outcroppings like the hide
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Music is terribly important to Texans, as well as enjoying the unique locals who ply their trade in many small town haunts. For example, in Luckenbach, you can dance under rafters draped in white lights and howl at the moon! Of course, Austin can appease even the most discerning music critic. As a side note, did you know Gruene Hall, built in 1878, bills itself as “the oldest continually run dance hall in Texas?” As you walk by the hall on a summer evening, you can hear music pouring out into the street.
WITH
Stargazing is a favorite pastime of many Texans and visitors. After all, “The stars at night are big and bright, deep in the heart of Texas,” and there are some fantastic places to see them up close and personal. Just find yourself a place with few distracting lights from the cities or residences, relax in your favorite portable lawn chair, and take in the beauty of God’s creation. Or, how about visiting the Tye Preston Library in Canyon Lake? They have a large telescope and regular night viewings. Check the library schedule and treat yourself and your family to a new experience, as you learn just how impressive those little stars can be!
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Perfume scents the air starting in mid-May when the Lavender begins to bloom in the Hill Country. Roll down your windows and take a deep breath as the nearly one dozen Lavender Farms begin to bloom. The scent is a heady and delightful experience, and there is even a Blanco Lavender Festival if you need an excuse for a celebration! The end of May brings about peach picking season in the Hill Country. The sweet smell of ripe, fresh picked peaches from the trees dotting the area is a gift from May till early August. I love stopping in at the roadside stands and biting into a well-ripened peach, its juice dribbling down my chin and onto my hands. Yum!
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Mason County offers a unique experience for those who are not into going to the mall to buy jewels. You can find blue tinted stones lying on the ground, close to the surface around granite outcroppings in creek beds and ditches. Now that’s an adventure with a benefit I would like!
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These are just a few of the treats that await you if you wish to explore the area. We Hill Country residents are the envy of many Texans who flock to the area to experience what we have in our own back yard! You probably have a dozen other “favorites,” so please share them with us. I listed some of my favorites that I associate with our “slice of heaven.” A day trip is good for the soul and helps us appreciate the beauty available to us all the time.
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Canyon Lake Living
Community Resource & Recreation Center
“Your local plumber you can count on”
By Maureen Schein | Photos by Sam Roberts
T
he new gray building in Sattler … or should we say the new, huge, gray building in Sattler? Whatever its size or color, it is what inside that is important. The Community Resource & Recreation Center (CRRC) Resource Program moved out of its 2,000 square-foot building last November and into an 11,000 square-foot facility. Within the coming months and years, the area’s largest nonprofit will be expanding services for its clients.
Located on two campuses in Canyon Lake, CRRC provides educational, recreational, and social services to the community. It has been doing so for the past 37 years! And, it is run with the talents and time of more than 150 volunteers. On the same campus, as the Resource Center, is the CRRC Thrift Store. Providing about 50% of the funding for CRRC programs, quality donations are accepted on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturday from 10 till noon. Another campus on the South Access Road in Canyon Lake is the CRRC Recreation Center, where exercise and dance classes, as well as pickleball tournaments are held. It also hosts the community’s annual North Pole Village interactive children’s Christmas Village. Along with the Rec Center is the Community Center where senior programs are held every Monday and Thursday.
Blessings Of Wellness
Maureen Schein is the new development director at CRRC, but she is very familiar with the organization as she oversaw the resource program for 10 years before changing positions. “We certainly think this is a great place to volunteer your time if you are looking for something to fill your days. Or, if you are looking to investing your time in something with a purpose. Our new building was a long time coming from when we first dreamed it up. And, we kept adding things to the dream – causing the building to get bigger” Maureen stated.
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dren’s health insurance and other services for our community. Many agencies and organizations have expressed interest in partnering with CRRC in the new building and the dream started to expand with CRRC joined with Canyon Lake Fire/EMS to offer health screenings weekly. The clinic idea turned out to be something that was really needed in Canyon Lake and we decided to incorporate some exam rooms into the building.
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CRCC has a little ways to go before it is completely set up in their “dream” building and COVID hasn’t helped with all the plans. Still awaiting equipment for the medical exam rooms and finish out of the 4,000 square feet of offices upstairs is yet to be completed. Schein added the heart of CRRC is its volunteers. The resource programs could not be run without the volunteers who give so generously of their time. “If there is something you need, come see us. We are here for the community. We will find the right resource, the right project or the right schedule for you” Maureen states.
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CRRC is working with various entities to provide medical screenings and services; mental health services; government benefit assistance; eye exams and glasses; job training; nutrition and cooking classes. A Legal referral assistance program, prescription assistance, chil-
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Canyon Lake Living
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e, residents of Texas, are blessed to have Carolina Wrens here year round. Carolina Wrens are a warm rusty brown on the head and back with a pale orangey yellow chest and belly. They have a white throat with a prominent white eyebrow and a tail that is often cocked up. These birds are a joy to watch as they build their nests and raise their babies. They breed from mid February to late August. This variety of wren likes to build nests in natural cavities, nest boxes, or flower pots. They have been known to build nests in shoes, hose bib covers or empty pockets of clothing. At our house they usually build their nests in a flower pot on our deck. The nests are usually a domed structure with an opening on the side and is made of twigs, leaves, strips of bark and debris. The inside is lined with fine grasses, feathers, hair or soft nesting material. The female lays one egg a day for 4 to 6 days. She incubates the eggs for 12 to 16 days. The eggs hatch in the order that they were laid. The babies fledge (leave the nest) 10 to 16 days after hatching. Carolina Wrens May have as many as three broods in a season. Both the male and the female forage for insects to feed their young. Unlike other wren species, only the male Carolina Wren sings loudly. The male can sing 3000 times a day, up to forty different songs. A pair bond may form between a male and female Carolina Wren any time during the year and the pair will stay together for life. Carolina Wrens stay together on their territory year round and forage together. A female Carolina Wren is not able to defend her territory alone if her mate dies. So as they forage, she spends a lot of her time watching for predators. Carolina Wrens mainly eat insects and fruit. However they may also eat a few seeds. They like to visit suet feeders because suet gives them the fat and protein they get from insects. We have a “no melt” suet that has the highest fat and protein content available and our Carolina Wrens visit it regularly. Recently, at our home, mama and dad were showing their newly fledged babies where the suet was. Carolina Wrens are not show stoppers like Cardinals or Painted Buntings. However their songs are sweet and they are so fun to watch. Enjoy!
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L CA Y! LO DA A O IT E T BM ICL SU RT A Canyon Lake Living
REAL ESTATE STATISTICS
REAL ESTATE STATISTICS
DARLA BOURQUE D
By Linda Shelton
Darla also enjoyed sales of all types, and, having a passion for the Real Estate Business, she toyed with the idea of taking Real Estate Classes to obtain her license. As with everything Darla strives to achieve, she moved forward and passed her exam with flying colors. Originally, her idea was to buy and sell homes on her own; however, as she became entrenched in the business, she found she truly enjoyed working with others, assisting them to find exactly what they desired. A friend in the business discussed different possibilities with Darla, and, with her encouragement, Darla discovered Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper. The Company’s training program is exceptional; plus, their support system, their ethics, the family atmosphere, the standards you must meet – all these made it clear to Darla that she wished to align herself with Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper in those early days. Having managers who do not compete with sales continued on page 18
Bulverde Dental
List Price
135 Gadwall Way
2380.00
4 br 3ba
$445,000
906 Mystic Breeze
2500.00
3br 3ba
$478,609
357 Warbler Drive
2616.00
3 br 2 ba
$498,000
571 Mystic Parkway
3846.00
4br 3ba
$612,000
167 High Point Circle
2700.00
4 br 2 ba
$469,900
175 Muse Drive
3227.00
3 br 3 ba
$570,825
202 Swift Place
3209.00
3 br 3 ba
$950,000
UNDER CONTRACT
2 properties
Average days on market: 51 days
SOLD Past 30 Days
8 sold properties
Average days on the market: 79
1010 Escada
3079
4br 3 ba
$509,000
2331 Campestres
2125
2br 2 ba
575,000
UNDER CONTRACT
0 properties
Average days on market: 51
SOLD past 30 days
0 sold properties
ACTIVE | CASCADA
ACTIVE | SUMMIT ESTATES AT FISCHER
Best Version Media does not guarantee the accuracy of the statistical data on this page. The data does not represent the listings of any one agent or agency but represents the activity of the real estate community in the area. Any real estate agent’s ad appearing in the magazine is separate from the statistical data provided which is in no way a part of their advertisement.
710 Stars And Stripes
1810
3br 2 ba
$359,000
315 Freedom Street
2224
4br 3 ba
$398,900
UNDER CONTRACT
0 properties
SOLD past 30 days
1 property
Average days on the market: 2
ACTIVE | LAS BRISAS SOLD past 30 days: 1
Average days on market: 53
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Hwy 281 became a reality, and Darla was totally involved in the business from day one. The old adage “Don’t judge a book by its cover” is truly applicable with this lady; she can run a tape measure with the best of them and has a keen designer eye for all types of flooring and tile. Darla, an avid student, learned the business from Terry and has participated in it for over 10 years.
Darla, an attractive gal who originally hails from Georgia, is truly a rare gem. She and her husband Terry relocated to Beaumont, Texas after a year of marriage. Terry, a master craftsman, and Darla both began businesses in the oil town. Work in the flooring industry was plentiful for Terry, and his reputation as “the master of real wood flooring” continued to grow, affording him the opportunity to work in a variety of residential and commercial applications. Darla operated her own full-service Beauty Salon, offering not only hair and nails but tanning, as well as other related products. In 2009, the recession brought many business owners to the realization they must either branch out or endeavor to re-create themselves. Both Terry and Darla realized a Central Texas location would better suit their business, and the couple began the process of determining where. Frequent visitors to the Hill Country, as Darla’s mother lives in the area, the couple was drawn to the potential and knew this was the right place for them to settle with the family, build a flooring company business, and sink their roots. Designer Wood Flooring on
Square Feet
SUBDIVISION: MYSTIC SHORES/ CANYON LAKE
Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper, Realtors
arla Bourque is a lady of many talents! I have been blessed to know Darla personally for several years, and I am always impressed with her sincerity, incredible work ethic, honesty, loyalty, and wit, as well as her plethora of accomplishments and strong commitment to her family.
PROPERTY ADDRESS
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COME SEE THE NEWEST LISTING!
409-828-1967
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Canyon Lake Living
continued from page 16
PET CORNER
persons and who are always available to support and assist the realtors made this her choice in a company. With a total of 9 offices in the area, the exposure and availability make it much easier to draw clients from a wide sector. Having the owner but a phone call away, rare in any large business today, ensuring that all the components fit was exactly what Darla was seeking, and she has not looked back. Darla finds every sale different, each listing unique; every person is an individual and no two days are ever the same - all of which make for excitement and fulfillment. The most challenging time, especially in our market today, is when a client finds a home they love but multiple offers make it unattainable. Then the challenge becomes finding another home they will be just as excited about and committed to. When I asked Darla what her favorite part of the business is, she thought for a few seconds before answering, “I enjoy listing properties, but I also truly enjoy working with buyers, so I cannot possibly select one versus the other.” When I asked the dreaded question, “What is the worst part?” she replied, “When a transaction falls through due to financing. Lenders are being more conservative today, but there is still a tremendous amount of activity, and the market is doing extremely well.”
Pet
Month
By Linda Shelton | Photos by Sam Roberts riple Me Mac Equine Sanctuary is an organization of dedicated volunteers who are passionate about saving horses from the cruelty of abuse, neglect or slaughter. The sanctuary has become well known locally and nationally through its rescue efforts and participation in anti-slaughter and anti-cruelty efforts. Since its founding in 2009 by lifelong horse lover Dixie Neeley, TMMES has participated in the rescue of hundreds of equines throughout the U.S. and Canada. In addition to its primary mission to rescue equines in jeopardy, TMMES participates in promoting respon-
T
sible horse ownership and helps owners who are experiencing hardship find resources so that they can keep their equines rather than having to surrender them. At present, TMMES has more than 40 horses in the sanctuary and various foster homes, including 20-plus senior horses, several donkeys, and a goat. Feeding these horses and providing veterinary and routine care costs upwards of $5000 a month, and 100% of all donations and grants go toward these expenses. In addition to monetary donations, TMMES is always grateful for donations of needed items such as feed, hay, hay rings, and water troughs.
Normally Mrs. Bourque prefers to show 2 or 3 homes in a day to a prospective buyer. This makes it easier for them to see each home and remember what they liked and what does not fit their lifestyle or family. Sometimes seeing too many homes in one day confuses the purchaser, and they cannot remember which home had which features, what they preferred, or even the exact location. By limiting the number in a day, they have a better recall and will have the ability to make precise decisions regarding the homes they have viewed. Recently, on Darla’s most hectic day, there were 15 showings of one of her listings, resulting in 4 offers in 24 hours!
Triple Me Mac Equine Sanctuary can be reached via email at tmmes@gvtc.com; online at triplememac.org; or on Facebook at facebook.com/tmmes.
Darla, always one to set goals and continue to strive for excellence, has followed her formula in respect to the Real Estate Business. “I want to be one of the top 10 agents in all of Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper, Realtors. I will double what I do yearly. I desire to own some rental properties, possibly flip some homes, and sell a whole bunch,” Darla emphatically states. Being well on her way to achieve these, I have seen her tackle this with the same zest and positive attitude I witnessed as she learned the flooring business and helped build Designer Wood Flooring. Building relationships is critical to the way Darla approaches everything. From her Salon ownership, to the Flooring Industry, to the Real Estate Business, Darla finds trust and knowledge two critical components which play off each other well. “People have to trust that you have their best interest first and foremost, but they also need to feel confident that you are knowledgeable and well versed in whatever career you are pursuing,” Darla thoughtfully shares. Having a supportive family is also a key to the success Darla has experienced. Terry is excited for her, as much today as the day she made her first sale. Their partnership in life is always such a breath of fresh air. Her son Peyton and daughter Paris are both encouraging, as well. This truly is a family who works hard and plays hard, always relishing in the joys of small moments that turn into great memories. Naturally I asked Darla why she selected our Canyon Lake area as one of those she desires to specialize in. “With the growth from San Antonio, there is no place else to go but north. This area has the space, vistas, and community atmosphere while maintaining a bit more “elbow room,” with great schools, and a winsome demeanor. There are some lovely homes in the area, examples of desired design today, while still offering affordability in comparison to other areas of the Hill Country. And, this is a perfect location in terms of accessibility. There is easy access to San Antonio, Austin, New Braunfels, and even Spring Branch, which increases the consumer’s purchasing options. The area’s peace and tranquility also rank high on the list of what prospective buyers are seeking, more so now than ever, as we see people spending more time with family and enjoying their homes. So, the choice was easy,” Darla explained. If you are seeking a knowledgeable, committed, hardworking Real Estate professional, who is a local resident, well entrenched in the community, and understands the uniqueness of our area, then Darla Bourque is certainly the one to reach out to. Darla is available by phone (409) 828-1967 or by email dbourque@cbharper.com SEPTEMBER 2020
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www.struttys.com 4888 US Hwy 281 North, Spring Branch, Texas 78070 830-438-8998 19
Canyon Lake Living
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