TABLE OF CONTENTS
CommunityLink.com
1 800-455-5600
production VP of production operations Amanda White director of publication design Kelly Friederich managing editor Laura Wilcoxen lead design Josh Mueller
photography coordinator/ copy consultant Jay Nehrkorn
What’s Inside
photography Rukavina Photography
Welc ome
website creation & support Josh Chandler
Boerne, Texas
director of media purchasing Diana Vaughn
One of America’s Best Small Towns............................................................... 4
business development director of business development George Prudhomme
business development manager Bonnie Ebers
director of outside sales Debbie Moss
customer service director Kathy Risley
regional director of publications Sean Corrigan
sales representative Kane Underwood
advertising ad research Mary Kopshever Mildred Walker ad traffic Carol Smith
ad design Mindy Brock
More Than Eighty Years of Service to Community............................................. 5
The Rewards of Retention Businesses Choose to Stay in Boerne............................................................. 7 Family Business Feels Blessed to Be in Boerne................................................. 9
publishing systems specialist Christopher Miller
Boerne Recruits a Star
executive leadership chief financial officer Rhonda Harsy
ABOUT This book is published by CommunityLink and distributed through the Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce. For advertising information or questions or comments about this book, contact CommunityLink at 800-455-5600 or by e-mail at info@CommunityLink.com. FOR INFORMATION Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce, 121 S. Main Street, Boerne, TX 78006, Telephone 830-249-8000, Fax 830-249-9639, www.boerne.org © 2013 Craig Williams Creative, Inc., 4742 Holts Prairie Road, Post Office Box 306, Pinckneyville, IL 62274-0306, 618-357-8653. All rights reserved. No portion of this book may be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the publisher.
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The Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce
A Boerne Tradition and a Texas Treasure
information technology
chairman and founder Craig Williams
An U nparalleled Business Co mmunit y
Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce
The City’s New Luxury Theater Is a Hit With Movie Lovers............................... 11
A Range of Retail & Restaurants What’s Cooking in Boerne......................................................................... 12 Classic & Contemporary Collectibles........................................................... 13 From Fine Dining to Down-Home Dishes....................................................... 14
Boerne’s Benevolent Businesses Champions for Worthy Causes................................................................... 16
TABLE OF CONTENTS F i r s t- Cl a s s E du c ation a n d E n ric hm en t Boerne ISD Top Rankings and Today’s Technology...................... 18 A Head Start and a Helping Hand... 19
Geneva School of Boerne A Classical Approach, a Rapid Rise and Dominating Debate................ 20
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PAGE 34
Boerne Performing Arts A Higher Degree of Fine Arts in Education............................... 22
Patrick Heath Public Library Ready for Readers........................ 23
Kinetic Kids Fun and Games in Boerne............. 24
FOREMOST IN ARTS A ND Cu lt u re Creative Expressions Boerne Is an Artists’ Town.............. 26
Humanity in My Lens B oerne Photographer Linda Rukavina.......................... 27
BoerneFest Bringing Out The Best in Boerne..... 28
More Festivals and Events Can You Come Out and Play?....... 30
Bo e rn e ’ s Mat c hle s s C h ar m Scenic New Venues for Special Events Celebrate in Texas Style................ 32
A Natural Beauty Some of Boerne’s Best Scenery....... 34
Walk Historic Boerne See the Sights on a Heritage Stroll.... 36
Hill Country Homes An Eclectic Market for Home Buyers... 38
I m p orta n t Num ber s t o Kn ow Facts, Stats & Local Contacts Demographics............................. 40 Important Phone Numbers.............. 41
THA N KS TO THE S U PPORTERS OF THIS PRO J ECT Index of Advertisers................... 44 Preferred Business Listings........... 46 www.boerne.org
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WELCOME
Boerne, Texas
One of America’s Best Small Towns By Jay Nehrkorn
E
veryone likes to think that their community is the best around. Let’s face it, regardless of where you’re from, it’s only natural to harbor some hometown pride. But when people from other places look in from the outside and agree that your town is among the very best, you’re on to something. Such is the case with Boerne, Texas; a community that has attracted new residents, tourists and special events at a remarkable rate over the past decade. Clearly, when people look at small towns in America, they like what they see in Boerne. In fact, Boerne was named No. 4 on Livability.com’s Top 10 Small Towns list in 2012, with Livability citing the town’s fourth-highest ranking in the state for per capita income, the approximately 30 shops in its historic district, the seven art galleries in town, and the high attendance tallies of local festivals as reasons for its appearance near the top of the heap. Those are all important numbers, but numbers don’t tell the whole story of why Boerne stands out in the crowd. When you look closer, you find that the diverse businesses in town don’t just provide opportunities for people to make a good living, they also have big hearts when it comes to loyalty and benevolence. Look beyond the number of art galleries and you’ll find that the arts actually permeate Boerne’s entire culture, inspiring the whole community. Dig deeper than just the high ratings of Boerne’s schools and you’ll see that they don’t just do a good job of preparing students for tests, they provide enriching experiences that prepare students for life. And as for
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Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce
the beauty and charm of the Texas Hill Country, you can’t put a number on that; you just have to experience it. That’s what Boerne Lifestyles magazine is all about — a closer look at the heart of what sets Boerne among the very best places in America to work, shop, eat, gather, be creative, grow up and enjoy life. Along the way we’ll use adjectives like “unparalleled,” “foremost” and “matchless,” but if you insist on putting a number on things, we think that our number is “one.”
You Can Call Us “Bernie” Boerne has a rich history dating back to the mid-1800s, and the combination of its distinctly German heritage and Texas Hill Country charm makes it a present-day gem for visitors — despite the fact that many of them mispronounce the city’s name. It’s often pronounced “Born” by out-of-towners, but the final “e” in the name isn’t silent — it’s actually long, making the proper pronunciation “Bernie.” But don’t worry about offending if you mispronounced the name at first — after more than 160 years, we’re used to it.
AN UNPARALLELED BUSINESS COMMUNITY
The Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce More Than Eighty Years of Service to Community
By Bonnie Westley
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t was no surprise to anyone in town when Boerne appeared on the list of the best small towns in America, published by Livability.com in September 2012. Boerne is No. 4 on the list of places where life can still be simple, quiet and complete, but with more places for folks to gather than are usually found in small cities its size. Boerne is known throughout the Southwest as the home of an amazingly talented arts community, the Cibolo Nature Center, an environmental phenomenon, and a prosperous green business community in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. Who wouldn’t want to live in a community with a warm, sunny climate offering countless opportunities to get out and enjoy golf, hunting, fishing, hiking, horseback riding, biking, and a variety of sports? Surrounded by wineries and home to the local brewhaus, Boerne continues to thrive in an economy that hasn’t been kind to most small towns. In 2012, the Boerne Chamber completed 85 years of service to the businesses that are the heartbeat of Boerne. Many of its current members have supported the Chamber for a long time, starting with businesses with the most consecutive years of membership: Kendall County Air, Dependable Insurance, The Flower Shop, PO-PO Family Restaurant, KCN Builders, Lester’s Automotive Center, Boerne Noon Rotary, and the City of Boerne. Everyone should applaud their loyalty to both the Chamber and the community they love so much. The Boerne Chamber, recognized as the fifth-largest chamber of commerce in the San Antonio market services area, boasts 724 area businesses that invest in and support their efforts. In fact, the Boerne Chamber welcomed 134 new members in 2013!
Mortgage, in 2012, and by Richard Elkins, Stanbio Laboratory, in 2013; by council chairs David Brown, Government Affairs Council; Mary Jo Floyd, Ambassadors Council; Darcee Grivel, Small Business Council; and Ashlee Pfeiffer, Leadership Boerne. Special events committee chairs Matt Diana (Golf Committee), David Brown and Jeannemarie Wilson (Best of BoerneFest), and Beca Short and Karen Daly (Wild Game Dinner) invested hundreds of hours to lead the Chamber’s non-dues revenue fundraising events to new heights. Crisanne Zamponi became the Chamber’s president in April 2012. In Boerne, she found a close-knit community that embraces its heritage and culture; a community that celebrates hard work and relationships and holds dear principles of integrity and credibility. “The Chamber’s role is to facilitate understanding,” states Crisanne. “To continually be the link, building bridges to all facets of our community; to listen to all sides and build consensus.” That is the basis of her success in the community, and everyone is so enthusiastic about her role in the future of Boerne.
The Boerne Chamber welcomed 134 new members in 2013!
2012 Highlights Strong Leadership
These strong numbers can be attributed to the vision of the Chamber’s leadership, from its Board of Directors, led by Lance Lemoine, RPM
Exciting Events The Chamber, building on important strategic relationships, led the creation and implementation of a highly successful new annual event, The Best of BoerneFest, in partnership with the City, the Hill Country Mile and the Hill Country Council for the Arts. The First Annual Best of BoerneFest, held in May 2012, was a single evening event featuring the dedication of the Heart of Boerne Trail and the lighting of the Cibolo Creek along that trail. It was a true collaboration of culture, community and commerce. Crowd estimates reached more than 3,000 at the event’s peak. A portion of the proceeds from the event were contributed by the Chamber to the Hill Country Council for the Arts to promote the Public Arts project. In 2013, the collaboration grew into a three-day festival in and around Boerne’s Main Plaza that included free concerts on Friday and Saturday www.boerne.org
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AN UNPARALLELED BUSINESS COMMUNITY
The success of the 2nd Annual Wild Game Dinner allowed the Chamber to offer two additional scholarships to local high school seniors, raising the total number to five.
Serving our friends and neighbors in the Texas Hill Country since 1916. Over our 97 years of serving the Hill Country, we’ve earned the trust of real estate professionals because... • We’re experienced. • We’re professional. • We’re caring.
evenings and a Sunday afternoon faith-based community choir event that had everyone joining in. A fine arts exhibition showcasing the work of dozens of local artists, a commerce showcase featuring more than 100 Boerne area businesses, and a wealth of activities for kids that included both physical activities and artistic opportunities, were all the result of a great collaboration between business and nonprofits demonstrating Boerne’s heart. Another wildly popular event in 2012 resulted in 176 businesses partnering with the Chamber to support the 2nd Annual Wild Game Dinner in November. It was all about the food! It took 14 cook teams from across Texas to prepare the food for the more than 2,000 guests in attendance. This successful event allowed the Chamber to offer two additional scholarships to local high school seniors, raising the total number to five. Another important event in 2012 resulting from strategic partnerships was the 2012 Water Forum, hosted by the Chamber’s Government Affairs Council. This forum, attended by more than 150 people, featured a panel discussion by members of the Texas Legislature and focused on potential solutions to the State’s continuing drought that would be addressed during the 2013 state legislative session.
Every Member Makes a Difference
103 N. Saunders St. Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 816.2131 tel (830) 249.3341 fax Visit us online at: www.kcac.net
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Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce
Ashlee Pfeiffer - Manager Mike Lang - Owner
Every member is important to the Chamber, and that is demonstrated by the Chamber’s efforts all year long. Whether it is promoting businesses through the online eNewsletters or blasting out emails on Friday mornings to talk about member events, the Chamber’s commitment to business and the community should be obvious. Every day the Chamber accomplishes things that most people think just happen. Member businesses serve as inspiration to Chamber board members and staff who are honored to serve the Boerne area’s collaboration of culture, community and commerce every day of the year.
AN UNPARALLELED BUSINESS COMMUNITY
The Rewards of Retention Businesses Choose to Stay in Boerne By Mark Allen
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ven the most casual student of the U.S. economy knows that Texas Means Business. Boerne IS Texas — the best of Texas, a community with a welcoming business environment and outstanding quality of life. Active economic development leaders work hard to build a great place for businesses to thrive. But Boerne owes a lot of its appeal to being — well — Boerne. Businesses take a hard look before choosing a home community, and that home community has to continue to deliver. And Boerne does. Two Boerne businesses — Albany Engineered Composites (AEC) and Mission Pharmacal — are two of the most recent that have made the easy decision that Boerne is the place to be. An expanding AEC carefully considered all possibilities before deciding that the right decision was to stay put. “When we realized it was necessary to expand production, we certainly were predisposed to stay in Boerne. But we had to do some due diligence, and we did look elsewhere,” said Susan Siegel, AEC’s vice president of Investor Relations and Corporate Communications. “We looked at locations in South Carolina, Tennessee, Alabama and New York, all states with existing Albany International operations. There was
legitimate competition, and some of the states offered richer incentive packages than Texas. But Boerne proved to be a perfect fit. We felt more welcome here than anywhere else, and no place put together a team to work with us as quickly. It just felt right.” Siegel says that Boerne offered a double benefit when it came to workforce. Not only was the existing workforce of excellent quality, but the Boerne lifestyle was a powerful selling point to potential employees coming in. “We have been able to attract and retain a very high-caliber workforce in Boerne,” Siegel said. “The quality of life is one our employees enjoy and is very attractive when recruiting candidates from other parts of the country and outside the U.S.” But not only did AEC like Boerne; it was very clear that Boerne liked AEC. The community brought a well-organized, unified team approach to the table when working with the company on its expansion plan. “The Kendall County Economic Development Corporation gave us its full support and worked closely
with the City of Boerne and the State of Texas to bring key resources together,” Siegel explained. “They have created a very business-friendly climate to spur growth in the area. “We have seen economic development projects that are very challenging when there are diverse entities involved. That was not remotely our experience in Boerne,” she continued. “It was very clear that the County, together with the City and State and the education and training organizations, were focused on creating an outcome where we all would benefit. The unified and full
“Boerne proved to be a perfect fit. We felt more welcome here than anywhere else, and no place put together a team to work with us as quickly. It just felt right.” Susan Siegel, V.P. of Investor Relations and Corporate Communications for Albany Engineered Composites www.boerne.org
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“From our perspective, Kendall County’s biggest strength starts with its residents and business leaders.” - Darryl Johnson, Senior V.P. of Manufacturing Operations for Mission Pharmacal
support of this team is a pivotal reason we chose to stay and expand our operations in Boerne.” Dan Rogers, president and CEO of Kendall County Economic Development Corporation, spoke of the relationship in the same terms. Noting that he displays some of the documentation from the project in his office — “I have it on my wall. That’s how good it was” — Rogers says the EDC leaped into action when the first hint of a possible move occurred. The all-out effort displayed at both local and state levels proved to be the difference. “Others had larger incentive packages,” Rogers noted. It was our sincere effort, our showing them that we wanted them to stay, that helped us to convince them. It was teamwork, effort, and the willingness of people to really tell them that they wanted them to stay here that made the difference.” For Boerne region’s leadership and residents, AEC and companies like it are more than just taxes and payroll. They’re friends and neighbors who generously pitch in and help with the work that makes Boerne the awardwinning city it is.
Mission Pharmacal Quarter Page (QP) 3.583" x 4.833"
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Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce
“We appreciate what Albany does for the community. They’re also an excellent corporate citizen. Those are the types of companies that you never want to lose,” Rogers said. Like AEC, Mission Pharmacal also tested the waters, casting a long gaze when exploring competing markets. But its Boerne roots and the quality environment were just too good to give up. “As a corporation, we are continually looking at the cost of doing business, the availability of talented labor, and the area surrounding facilities to ensure safety and convenience for our employees,” said Darryl Johnson, senior vice president of manufacturing operations at Mission Pharmacal. “After review of what we already had established in Boerne, as well as potential opportunities we may have had in other communities, we concluded that maintaining our presence here made the most sense, both from a business and quality of life perspective.” Mission Pharmacal was also impressed by the help and support that came not only from County leadership, but citizens as well. “As we went through the decision-making process, the KCEDC representatives we worked with were fully supportive and cooperative. They were clearly committed to helping us make the best decisions for our company and our people,” Johnson said. “From our perspective, Kendall County’s biggest strength starts with its residents and business leaders. We value our involvement with the local community both from a philanthropic and fundraising standpoint. We appreciate this area’s strong, supportive business climate and its small hometown community atmosphere.” The feeling is absolutely mutual. “Mission has been a longtime, extremely good corporate citizen in Boerne. Their involvement in the community’s activities and with the Chamber and Economic Development is an example of what every city needs as far as good quality corporate citizenship,” Rogers said. “It has always been a pleasure working with Mission’s staff in anything we can do to help, whether it be through keeping them here or helping them with their employment needs.” Every business in the region can count on the support network comprised by the Chamber of Commerce, the City of Boerne, Kendall County, and all the people who live here. “Our number-one target market is our own businesses and keeping them viable and growing,” concluded Rogers. “Local businesses are very important, and our goal is to help in expansion in Kendall County and to work with our partners in the City, County and Chamber to help them continue to be prosperous.”
AN UNPARALLELED BUSINESS COMMUNITY
A Boerne Tradition and a Texas Treasure Family Business Feels Blessed to Be in Boerne By Amanda Knoles
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bensberger-Fisher Funeral Home is the oldest continuously run business in Boerne. Established in 1882 by C.O. Ebensberger and operated as a family-owned enterprise for 131 years, the funeral home has been designated a Texas Treasure by the Texas Historical Commission. State Senator Jeff Wentworth presented the award to Sonny Ebensberger, the fourth generation of the founding family, and co-owners Dusty and Jo Lynn Fisher at a special ceremony in December 2012. Ebensberger and the Fisher family were also honored in ceremonies attended by State Senator Donna Campbell and Texas First Lady Anita Perry at the Capitol in Austin. “We learned we are the second oldest among all the 42 Texas Treasure honored businesses, with a saloon beating us by one year,” Jo Lynn noted. The Texas Treasure Business Award program recognizes the accomplishments of Texas businesses that have made exceptional historical contributions toward the state’s economic growth and prosperity. Ebensberger-Fisher received additional recognition for being continuously owned by the same family and operating from a building that is 50 years old or more while maintaining its architectural integrity. In 1938 Ed Ebensberger built the Art Deco building on Rosewood Avenue, which is still used today. Ed’s son, George Ebensberger, was an active member of Boerne civic organizations, including the 49ers Club, which organized the Boerne Centennial Celebration. George’s son, George Jr., better known as Sonny, joined his father in the business in 1977 and bought the business in 2000. Eight years later he became partners with Dusty and Jo Lynn Fisher, who currently handle day-to-day operations. www.boerne.org
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AN UNPARALLELED BUSINESS COMMUNITY “I like to say God brought us to Boerne, because everything just fell into place at the right time,” Jo Lynn explained. “We view the business as a ministry and strive to treat each family we serve with integrity and compassion, just as the Ebensbergers have for the last 131 years.” Over the years both the business and the building have undergone changes, but the architectural integrity has been preserved. The Fishers converted the former casket selection room into an overflow area equipped with a live camera feed, enabling guests outside the chapel to see the service. In addition to funeral and preplanning services, Ebensberger-Fisher offers grief support meetings in partnership with a local minister and Alamo Hospice. An annual Christmas Remembrance service provides comfort for those missing loved ones during the holidays. Giving back to the community has always been a priority at EbensbergerFisher. Besides giving monetary donations and sponsoring various organizations, the funeral home has donated the use of its large tent to several groups, including Relay for Life, Boy Scouts, Berges Fest, the Boerne Historical Society and others. Jo Lynn and Dusty both help out with various Chamber of Commerce activities and help support several nonprofit agencies in town.
“We view the business as a ministry and strive to treat each family we serve with integrity and compassion, just as the Ebensbergers have for the last 131 years.” - Jo Lynn Fisher, Co-Owner of Ebensberger-Fisher Funeral Home
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Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce
AN UNPARALLELED BUSINESS COMMUNITY
Boerne Recruits a Star
The City’s New Luxury Theater Is a Hit With Movie Lovers By Mark Allen
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oerne Luxury Cinemas is the fruit — and the savory popped corn — of a six-year drive to procure the city the finest of film venues. With the opening of Starplex Cinemas’ Boerne venue, local movie buffs not only have a state-of-the-art, high-tech theater for viewing the latest blockbusters, but one that also offers luxury amenities to make the experience that much better. Boerne lacks no urban perks, as it’s just a brief interstate drive to downtown San Antonio. But that drive didn’t necessarily herald a perfect filmgoing experience. Dan Rogers, president and CEO of Kendall County Economic Development Corporation, said people made their voices heard from the EDC’s inception. “It was probably one of the number-one things that had been requested from the time we opened our doors: ‘We want a theater here,’” Rogers said. When economic development leaders helped bring that theater to Boerne, they made sure they brought in the best experience to be found. The theaters feature digital projection and surround sound for the latest 3-D and HD film technologies. There are no sticky floors, squeaky seats, scratchy sounds or squint-inducing screens here. Luxurious leather seats, a huge 60-foot-plus widescreen IDX experience, digital sound and expanded concession items make movie night a true treat. For added convenience, customers may purchase tickets in advance online and pick them up at automated kiosks.
Steve Holmes, CEO of Starplex Cinemas, says Boerne’s response to the new theater has been outstanding. Dale Davis, owner of Davis Equity, land developer for the theater, concurs. “The preferred means of seeing a movie has historically been at a bigscreen cinema,” Davis explained. “The Starplex theater shows first-run movies; it’s important to movie enthusiasts to view a movie when it is first released. Also, the theater experience should far exceed the stay-at-home or smaller-screen venue’s distractions and inferior-quality sound and video. Boerne Luxury Cinemas’ big-screen movie experience enables a non-distracted, grand sound; technically enhanced visual screen; and comfortable seating environment that cannot be replicated in a home setting. “The theater business is about providing a consistent grand experience for the movie-goer,” Davis concluded. “It is the business plan of Starplex to value-price that experience to enable its guests to more frequently share that fun event.” Families and parents can now enjoy a close-to-home outing with — or for — the kids. No more worrying about late-night highway drives to San Antonio for their teens. Further, parents are welcome to drop off younger kids for a movie or birthday party. Rogers says the theater is a precise fit for Boerne. “The idea was, we’re a family-oriented town, and we’d like to have a family-oriented theater here. And now, we do.”
www.boerne.org
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AN UNPARALLELED BUSINESS COMMUNITY
A Range of Retail & Restaurants By Amanda Knoles
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he Hill Country Mile is a Texas-sized mile (stretching 1.1 miles total) in Boerne’s historic Main Street, reaching from Oak Park to Richter Street. The continually evolving district offers residents and visitors an inviting downtown destination featuring winding paths along the banks of Cibolo Creek, views of beautifully maintained historic properties, and
an exciting array of shops and restaurants. Retail shops offer something for every taste, from jewelry and art galleries to clothing boutiques, home décor and unique gift items. And there are restaurants to satisfy every craving, from Tex-Mex and German to fine dining, Southern comfort food and irresistible baked goods.
What’s Cooking Boerne Cooking Cottage Boerne Cooking Cottage owner/chef Lauren Moore is bringing cooking classes to the public through a partnership with the Boerne Parks & Recreation Department. Classes provide instruction on how to cook everything from basic comfort foods to popular international cuisine. Held at the Cooking Cottage on Tuesday evenings over a three-week period, classes include the opportunity for students to dine on their creations. Monthly themes feature a variety of cuisines, and students are involved in hands-on preparation. “The classes have a maximum of eight people so Lauren can provide more personal attention, and the $95 fee includes food, an apron, recipe cards, and a pre-class wine and cheese social,” explained Tori Bellos, special events and programs coordinator for Boerne Parks and Recreation. Moore opened Boerne Cooking Cottage in 2010, offering cooking camps for kids. Over the last three years the business has grown to include adult cooking classes, catering, personal chef services, and hosting of special events for children and adults. “We try to offer a variety of classes to keep students challenged, and we help them learn basic cooking techniques and how to use various kitchen gadgets,” Bellos explained. Classes vary throughout the year and range from holiday desserts and no-knead baking to myriad ways to use rotisserie chickens. Check It Out
Boerne Cooking Cottage 140 E. Bandera Road 830-331-4151 www.boernecookingcottage.com
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Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce
in
Boerne
AN UNPARALLELED BUSINESS COMMUNITY
Classic & Contemporary Collectibles Flashback Funtiques Fans of the TV Show American Pickers will feel right at home at Flashback Funtiques. Run by Billy and Heather Howard, the shop has done so well in Boerne the owners recently moved to a larger space. Brimming with vintage Coca-Cola signs and soda machines, barber chairs, ’50s-style gas pumps, and advertising icons like the Michelin Man and RCA Victor dog, the store is an Americana collector’s dream come true. Billy’s parents ran an antique store, and he spent most of his teenage years seeking out treasures at auctions. While working for Continental Airlines, he continued buying and selling at auctions as a hobby, and in 1993 opened Flashback Funtiques in Houston. After the Howards fell in love with Boerne they decided to relocate their business. Many of the treasures in the store are discovered on road trips all over the country, but Billy also peruses regional antique fairs and flea markets and has formed relationships with dealers all over the country. “People love the American-made nostalgic stuff that we sell,” he says. “Boerne has turned out to be a great place for our business and our family. From the time the store first opened two years ago the local community embraced us, and that has meant a lot.” Check It Out
Flashback Funtiques 248 S. Main St. 830-331-2200 • www.flashbackfuntiques.com
Hunting and Gathering Hunting and Gathering has moved into the storefront previously occupied by Flashback Funtiques. The shop first opened in a shared space near the Main Plaza, but owner Lila Reed has had such an enthusiastic response from customers, she needed a larger store for her rapidly expanding inventory of home décor, antiques and accessories. Reed visits merchandise marts, flea markets and antique shops all over the country seeking treasures large and small. As a veteran in the retail and home décor business, she has an eye for high quality and unique designs. The shop’s tagline, “the unexpected and lovely for your home,” perfectly describes the stylish mix of decorative pillows, furniture and rugs, wall art and accessories. The eclectic collection includes everything from Chippendale chairs and English pub tables to Turkish rugs, Spanish serving platters, and Fresco towels. “We get new merchandise coming in every month, so our inventory is always changing,” Reed says. “We carry a mix of old and new and I don’t take a big markup on the items I sell, so my customers are thrilled when they find a great price on a high-end piece or a one-of-a kind find.” Check It Out
Hunting and Gathering 101 S. Main St. 210-861-7333 • www.huntingandgathering.com
www.boerne.org
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AN UNPARALLELED BUSINESS COMMUNITY
From Fine Dining
to
Down-Home Dishes
Cypress Grille Featuring an ambience that combines laidback country charm with California flair, the Cypress Grille is a favorite with Boerne residents and visitors who enjoy fine dining. Run by chefs Paul Thompson and Tom Stevens, the popular eatery is known for its irresistible appetizers and inventive entrees like lobster brie portobello lasagna and chile-spiced pork shank. Open since 2006, the restaurant has been a labor of love for the Thompson and Stevens families. “It really has become a family affair,” Stevens explains. Thompson and Stevens design their menus with peak-of-the-season fruits and vegetables in mind. “Freshness is the key word around here,” says Stevens. “We have fresh fish flown in and rotate our seasonal menus to change things up with new and exciting twists using the best products available.” A wood-fired grill, custom-made smoker and unique seasonings are used to create
many of the innovative dishes. Not-to-bemissed desserts include the crème brûlée and molten chocolate cake, made fresh daily. The impressive wine list is carefully chosen by resident sommelier Thompson and includes some of the best-known labels in the Napa Valley. An annual tradition at Cypress Grille is the Honor the Airmen program, an event that brings in busloads of airmen and women from Lackland Air Force Base to enjoy a delicious Thanksgiving meal. “Honor the Airmen is our way of giving back to the men and women who serve our country,” Stevens says. “It’s an event our entire staff looks forward to, and it has become something the community loves. It is a heartwarming event for all involved, and our staff works tirelessly for days to make sure it’s memorable.”
Check It Out
Cypress Grille :: 170 S. Main • 830-248-1353 • www.cypressgrilleboerne.com
Hungry Horse Restaurant A favorite with locals and Hill Country visitors, the family-owned Hungry Horse Restaurant offers reasonably priced, homestyle meals in a warm and friendly atmosphere. The first family restaurant opened in Boerne, Hungry Horse has been open seven days a week for over 30 years. While Southern favorites like chicken fried steak and meatloaf are still popular menu items, the restaurant also offers healthier options like grilled seafood. “Eating habits change, and we adjust our menu as tastes evolve,” says owner Steve Artale. “When the recession hit we wanted to do something to help our customers, so we started a casseroles-to-go line
that people could pick up for an affordable price. It continues to be a big business for us.” The Hungry Horse also has a thriving catering business that Artale expects to grow. Artale has been honored many times for his commitment to community service. Voted the 2012 Business of the Year (under 50 employees) by the Boerne Chamber of Commerce, the Hungry Horse has helped numerous charities and organizations over the years. “Boerne has been so supportive of our restaurant that I try to give back to the community as much as I can,” Artale says. “When new businesses open here I tell them, join a church, adopt a charity, and get involved with the Chamber. The ones who do it usually are very successful; the ones who don’t — not so much.”
Check It Out
Hungry Horse Restaurant :: 109 S. Saunders • 830-816-8989 • www.hungryhorsehillcountry.com
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www.boerne.org
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AN UNPARALLELED BUSINESS COMMUNITY Left: For the last two years Toyota of Boerne has sponsored Transplants for Children by hosting the Tour for Children cycling event. Top Right: At Toyota of Boerne’s November Turkeys for Troops event, all U.S. military personnel who present a valid military I.D. receive a free turkey. Bottom Right: In February 2013, the GVTC Foundation presented $5,000 each to eight regional food banks.
Boerne’s Benevolent Businesses Champions for Worthy Causes By Amanda Knoles
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oerne residents and businesses are always quick to offer a helping hand. The automotive companies in town are particularly well known for their generosity to the community. Jennings Anderson Ford, Ancira Buick-GMC Trucks, Boerne Dodge Chrysler & Jeep Store, Cavender Chevrolet, Ken Batchelor Cadillac Saab Hummer, Mercedes Benz of Boerne, and Toyota of Boerne are all champions for worthy causes. Vic Vaughan, owner of Toyota of Boerne, has won numerous awards for community service. “Toyota of Boerne has held the Turkeys for Troops event for the last three years in November, with the number of military attendees doubling in size every year,” Vaughan said. In 2012 the dealership partnered with the Military Warrior Support Foundation to give away a 100 percent mortgage-free home to a combat-wounded veteran and his family. In addition, 2,000 turkeys were given out to all U.S. military personnel who showed up with a valid military ID. “Toyota of Boerne gets incredible help from its two participating sponsors in this event,” Vaughan noted. “The Boerne Wal-Mart and Clear Channel Radio of San Antonio are both incredibly gracious with their resources and staff.”
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For the last two years Toyota of Boerne has also sponsored Transplants for Children, an organization that assists young organ and tissue transplant recipients and their families, by hosting the Tour for Children cycling event. “Staci Almager, the director of Transplants for Children, is both a friend of the dealership and a customer,” Vaughan said. “We have seen the courage she had to help build this organization, and we wanted to be a part of it. “We had the idea two years ago to host a fundraiser to help support her cause and saw such a dramatic response from it the first year that we wanted to make it even bigger the second year,” Vaughn continued. “The community response was tremendous in last year’s event, where funds totaling almost $50,000 were raised to support the cause. The people of Boerne are responsible for helping with this cause, and we couldn’t have done anything without them.”
GVTC Foundation Winner of the Chamber’s 2012 Business of the Year Award (over 50 employees), telecommunications provider GVTC is well known for its employees’ spirit of volunteerism. With a mission to enhance the quality of life in the communities it serves, the GVTC Foundation facilitates charitable contributions and volunteer
service in six important areas: health and human services, youth programs and services, volunteer emergency services, education, cultural, and public charities. Thanks to donations and the efforts of its employees and board of directors, The GVTC Foundation is a vital support system for many organizations in the area, including Boerne Education Foundation, Boys and Girls Club of Texas Hill Country, the Boerne Fire Department, Kronkosky Senior Center, Hill Country Family Services, Kendall County Women’s Shelter, and Boerne Performing Arts, among others. GVTC also assists the community through the adoption of low-income families during the holiday season, and by supporting local area volunteer fire departments. In February 2013 the GVTC Foundation reached the $1 million mark in donations given back to the communities it serves. To help reach the milestone, the Foundation presented a total of $40,000 to eight regional food banks with each receiving $5,000. “This is a huge milestone,” said Paula White, president of the GVTC Foundation Board. “In six short years we have been able to help scores of organizations who work tirelessly serving those in our communities who are in need. To be a part of that is such an honor for all of us at GVTC.”
FIRST-CLASS EDUCATION AND ENRICHMENT
Boerne ISD
Top Rankings and Today’s Technology By Jennifer Bull
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ccording to Boerne ISD Superintendent David Stelmazewski, the prevalence of digital devices has changed how children learn, and educators need to embrace new technologies — not be afraid of them. From researching papers, to working out math problems, to developing creative designs — even to playing educational games and engaging in detective work — Boerne ISD students are plugged in to technology on a daily basis. “We realize the importance of technology in the way we teach and in the way kids learn today,” Stelmazewski said. “There is a wave of change upon us, and technology is having a tremendous influence on how we teach and how kids learn.” In Boerne ISD elementary schools, children use iPads and Netbooks for spelling practice, reading, project-based learning, math, science games and much more. Teachers make use of several online educational programs — some of them in very creative ways. Fabra Elementary fourth-grade teacher Christopher Brantner devised a fun “whodunit” lesson for his class. “My classroom gets ‘mysteriously’ wrapped in toilet paper, and the kids have to figure out who the culprit is,” he explained. “We work through a website I built where students watch videos to see who is the ‘criminal.’ It teaches them to make inferences and draw conclusions.” Middle school students learn robotics and use SMART boards and a variety of integrative websites. WHITEBOX LEARNING, used on both middle school campuses, allows students to
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design and build a project — say, an airplane — online. They can print the plans and build in class as well. In high school, students are taught digital communication skills, such as incorporating hyperlinks, videos and other images in their writing. Students learn to use devices such as iPads to compose, publish and instantly receive feedback digitally. “Because students are already familiar with the technology, it is important to embrace their previous knowledge and expand upon it,” said one teacher. “For example, composing a book review in a Twitter-like format of using only 140 characters helps them to think critically about the essence of a novel’s message.” Programs such as Photoshop, Illustrator, Flash, InDesign, Dreamweaver and LightWave 3D teach students about graphic design and digital illustration. Computer programming students are even encouraged to bring and use their own devices in the classroom under the district’s BYOD program. Throughout facilities, Boerne ISD provides broadband high-speed Internet access and upto-date computer labs with IBM-compatible Pentium 4 computers. All classrooms have access to broadband IP video/cable TV via the district’s Ethernet, and all classrooms have LCD projectors installed and mounted in the ceiling. SMART boards, scanners and digital cameras for technology integration are becoming standard tools. The district’s campus instructional technologists put out a regular newsletter to keep faculty abreast of ever-changing technologies.
Recognized for Excellence Fair Oaks Ranch and Cibolo Creek Elementary schools have long held the Texas Education Association’s ranking of “Exemplary” — the highest rating under the TEA’s outgoing school ranking system — while four other schools in the district have enjoyed the second-highest rating of “Recognized.” While Texas is in the process of changing how they are grading schools, Superintendent Stelmazewski is confident that Boerne’s schools will continue to be recognized for their excellence, regardless of what the new titles are. “We’re very proud of what we’ve done. Our scores have been outstanding. We do think we will be at the top or near the top in the new system as well.” When asked what made the elementary schools in particular so outstanding, teachers cited a variety of progressive methods and programs, including: • Classes at elementary grade levels are divided by subject, allowing teachers to focus on specific standards and become experts on their subject. • Reading program that supports student goal setting, nightly reading and incentives for reaching reading goals. • A strong music program (research shows that music does wonders for the brain!). • Hands-on instruction in science. • Administration works with teachers to monitor student progress via monthly grade-level meetings.
FIRST-CLASS EDUCATION AND ENRICHMENT
A Head Start and a Helping Hand Reading, writing, math, technology — all are necessary skills to succeed in a career. But if that’s all students are learning, they’re missing a lot. In the Boerne ISD, there’s a highly successful program in place to teach workforce skills; along the way, both the students and the adults involved have learned a lot about how giving the best of themselves not only builds great careers, but great communities. Boerne Middle School South teacher Sandie Ford explained the nuts and bolts of the program. “We do two programs. One — Career Prep in Texas — is high school. Students work some of the day and they take this class, which is a great thing because not only do they learn all of these tips and tricks before they go into the workforce, but they also have a teacher who is monitoring and assisting and counseling them as they are on the job, to be sure their academics are kept on track. “In addition to the high school program, the middle schoolers have a program called Exploring Careers where they learn quite a number of skills that will help them once they enter the workforce,” Ford continued. “We start with just the basics — what is work — and progress to the difference between a career and a job. Then we get into the ins and outs of seeking a job, preparing yourself for the workplace. We do some on-the-job etiquette training and discussion, and include workplace visits and guest speakers.” Ford said the program wouldn’t be the success it is without the tremendous support of the businesses and industries of Boerne. “I have the luxury in Boerne of very open and willing business and industry workplace sites and settings,” she explained. “They just want us to come. They are wonderful. CoilSDA Engineering in particular is a firm that has never turned me down in all these years, and they do a fabulous tour for the students. Very hands-on.” Hands-on skills in the program are also taught through the completion of special projects. One of the most successful is one that comes very close to the hearts of Ford and her students.
“Three years ago I had a little girl in class in the fall, and at Christmas I noticed I wasn’t seeing her every day,” she explained. “They diagnosed her with leukemia. Even though she didn’t return to school that year or for her eighth grade year, she was still number one in her class. “Even though she wasn’t here in the building, she was still with us,” Ford continued. “Her best friends were here. We did things like Skype with her. She was part of the class. Her one comment to me when I asked how she was doing was, ‘It’s not bad, the chemo is not bad, it is just so stinking cold in those rooms.’ I tucked that away.” Touched by their friend’s courage, the students wanted to do something to help others facing the same fight. Ford took the initiative, writing a five-page application for a grant to fund a project to distribute handmade quilts to children battling cancer. While she wasn’t surprised that the community also pledged support, she was amazed at the results. “We got a $2,500 grant to pursue our project, and when that hit I recruited some women in the community to help us,” Ford said. “A local lady does a community quilt every year, and she said that anything [they made] on a particular Saturday would be ours for our project. I had hoped for 20 quilts — they finished 38. At the end of the project we had 72 quilts. It just caught on, and people wanted to do this. We’ve given most out to children — in all stages of disease and treatment — but a couple of them went to our teachers who were diagnosed with breast cancer.”
students, who enthusiastically jumped in as top-notch marketers for the project. Ford marveled not only at their energy, but also at the truly poised and professional way they tackled the work. “Those students went and spoke anywhere I could get an audience for them,” she said. “They did six or eight formal presentations to City Council, the School Board, Rotary, the Chamber, doctors — anybody that had a group. They prepared a PowerPoint presentation. They talked about the disease, the signs and symptoms, what usually is done, and what a community service project could look like to honor someone with this disease and to bring awareness to everyone else. It was magnificent. It was a wonderful, meaningful thing.” This happy story comes with a happy ending. The student who inspired the project has beaten leukemia and returned to school, a thriving cheerleader and still excelling academically (“She’s maintaining her position as number 1 in her class at the high school,” Ford noted). And Quilts for a Cure is still an active and successful venture in the community.
The Quilts for a Cure project not only provided quilts for children with cancer, but also served as a wonderful learning opportunity for the
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FIRST-CLASS EDUCATION AND ENRICHMENT
Geneva School of Boerne A Classical Approach, a Rapid Rise and Dominating Debate By Jennifer Bull
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eneva School of Boerne is a classical private Christian school offering a co-educational, college-preparatory curriculum for students in grades K4 through 12. Delivering a classical liberal arts curriculum, Geneva School of Boerne’s very well-rounded program includes grammar, arithmetic, logic, geometry, rhetoric, music, astronomy, physical training, and the fine and performing arts — and a nationally ranked debate team that’s traveled the country to compete. Head of School Brad Ryden talked about the school’s history. “We’re a fairly young school. We started in 1999 and met in town in a church, with just 13 students,” he said. “Here we are just a few years removed from that and next year we expect to have over 600 students in grades K through 12 — so it has been a fairly rapid growth.” Ryden credits much of the school’s impressive success simply to being located in Boerne. “It helps that we are located where we are,” he said. “We’ve gotten a tremendous amount of support from the Boerne community, and that
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has been really nice to have. People are very complimentary of the school. The community has really welcomed us, and we want to be a good community member. We don’t want to be seen as this exclusive place that sits apart from the community — we really want to be seen as a member of the community. We are involved with the Chamber, and we are involved in a number of organizations in town, and we want to maintain those relationships and help people to see us as a contributing member.” Geneva School of Boerne also enjoys a good and productive relationship with Boerne ISD — one that Ryden characterizes as mutually supportive rather than competitive. “We have what I think is a really great relationship with the local public school system. They’re obviously much bigger than we are, but we don’t have any problem at all picking up the phone and calling them if we have a question about something. They have been extremely helpful,” Ryden asserted. “I would say that’s another important factor for our growth and development, and I think it’s unique.”
With growth in numbers at Geneva School of Boerne has come quantifiable academic success. The Class of 2013 boasts an average SAT score of 1837, compared to the national average of 1500.
Leading in Debate One of the most successful extracurricular programs offered by the Geneva School has been the debate team. “The competitive debate program in our high school has had great success over the past couple years,” said Ryden. “They’ve gone to many, many prestigious places — Harvard, Yale, Princeton, Stanford — they’ve traveled all over. We have one debate team ranked No. 12 in the nation, and another ranked No. 42 — those are rankings out of thousands of teams. In the 2012–2013 year, five of our students qualified for the Tournament of Champions.” A milestone in the debate team’s journey came in the 2011–12 school year, when they were one of 32 of the best international teams to be accepted for the International Public Policy
FIRST-CLASS EDUCATION AND ENRICHMENT Forum. To qualify, the students had to prepare an essay on the topic, “Human missions should be a significant focus of space exploration.” Ryden attributes the debate team’s success to a classical curriculum that encourages students to think critically. “It fits with who we are. All of our kids essentially get training in logic and public speaking through the normal course of study here, and if they really connect with those classes — logic and rhetoric training — then debate just becomes a very natural thing with them,” Ryden said. “We sort of have the advantage of having a program that already trains everybody in the basic components of debate; so there’s good groundwork for those who want to take it a step further. Practically every weekend there is a debate tournament somewhere in our area.” There’s one thing there’s no debate about, however: The Geneva School feels blessed to be in Boerne. “Boerne is such a great place to live, so we want people to know that we take a great measure of pride in that,” said Ryden.
www.boerne.org
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FIRST-CLASS EDUCATION AND ENRICHMENT
Boerne Performing Arts
A Higher Degree of Fine Arts in Education By Jennifer Bull
“A … school that treats the arts as the province of a few gifted children, or views them only as recreation and entertainment, is a school that needs an infusion of soul. The arts are an essential element of education, just like reading, writing, and arithmetic.” William Bennett, Former U.S. Secretary of Education
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n a time when resources are limited in public schools, it is often arts education that is sacrificed. Not so in Boerne. In addition to having a choir, band, orchestra and theater for student participation, Boerne ISD has a new partnership with Boerne Performing Arts, an outreach committee of the Hill Country Council for the Arts, to bring international performing arts groups to Boerne ISD Champion High School Auditorium in a series of shows the whole community can enjoy. The program began during the 2010–11 school year, when the Kerrville Performing Arts Society chose to partner with the Boerne Independent School District to bring the first series of performances to the campus. The venture, supported by the Hill Country Council for the Arts, Boerne Convention and Visitors Bureau, Kendall County Economic Development Corporation, the Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce, and the City of Boerne, drew an overwhelmingly positive response.
Enthusiasm and facilities made Boerne the perfect fit. “We are using our newest high school, which was built four years ago and has a terrific auditorium. It’s a space that can accommodate all these international groups,” said Carol Schultz, chair of Boerne Performing Arts. “Last year we had the Vienna Boys Choir, a Japanese drumming group, DRUMLine Live, a Juilliard-trained pianist, and a group called Celtic Knights.” While the whole community can enjoy the program, the students get special treatment. The benefits don’t just begin when the curtain rises or stop when the curtain falls, either. “What the public doesn’t see is the full day these visiting artists spend with our students before the performance, interacting with them. They’ve given our students performances during the day free of charge,” Schultz said. “When DRUMLine came to town they actually sat in with our high school band for a while, and when the Knights were here they came to choir room and sang with the high school kids. That interaction has just been priceless for our district. “Along with the performances, Over the course of a multi-year process, Boerne ISD has we’ve tried to do little lesson plans expanded the number of fine arts programs taught by for the teachers so kids can have arts-certified and degreed teachers. some idea of the culture and what
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is going to happen when they come to these concerts,” Schultz continued. “Since art doesn’t take place in a vacuum, the students are able to learn about the performances, what fueled them, inspired them, or even just what the performances are about through this program.” For Schultz, the importance of the program can’t be overstated. “The arts across the United States are suffering, and I think part of it is that we have not cultivated the love of the arts in the generation of people who are out there now,” Schultz said. “The Boerne Performing Arts has just been such a blessing for our school district. We’ve had some 3,000 students benefit from this season’s visit by the performers. We hope not only to inspire some of them to maybe go into the performing arts, but we’re trying to educate our future audiences.” BISD Superintendent David Stelmazewski agrees. “It’s been a great partnership for BISD to be associated with Boerne Performing Arts. The interaction for our kids has really been a wonderful thing.” Perhaps most importantly of all, the students and their teachers resoundingly agree. “We have letters and letters that the kids have written and letters and letters that the teachers have written because they love the program.”
FIRST-CLASS EDUCATION AND ENRICHMENT
Patrick Heath Public Library Ready for Readers By Jennifer Bull
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ith brand-new, state-of-the-art facilities opened in 2011, the Patrick Heath Public Library offers more than just a good book. The library is located right by the Old No. 9 Greenway, providing an alternative travel corridor for children and non-drivers and a scenic backdrop for the terrace and covered patio areas. Glass walls at the back of the building allow all visitors to enjoy the view. Inside the two-story structure, the lower level includes the children’s section, a youth activity area, the popular materials section, and a multipurpose meeting space with seating for over 100 people. Upstairs is the library’s large selection of books for adults, with a section specifically for young people in the sixth grade and above. The upper level also offers multiple study rooms, a conference room, and a quiet room with a fireplace. Residents can take advantage of many of the library’s services, such as adult discussion groups, computer stations and classes, downloadable books, local and family history, interlibrary loan, senior outreach and homebound delivery, Spanish classes for adults, and test proctoring. The library also encourages reading in the community through Online Book Clubs, available via email. Every Monday the library sends out a small selection from a new book. Then, throughout the week, small selections from the book continue to be sent out via email, allowing those signed up for the program to read the first two to three chapters of a book in a week. A new book selection starts each Monday. The rotating selection allows participants to discover which new books they’d like to check out to read in full. The library’s Paws 4 Reading program helps beginning or struggling young readers. By reading aloud to Certified Therapy Dogs, participants increase their literacy and fluency, without having to experience the anxiety that sometimes comes from reading to a human audience. The dogs provide not only fun companionship, but non-judgmental listeners that help teach compassion, social skills and confidence. All dogs in the program undergo extensive evaluation and specialized training to ensure they’re a good fit. www.boerne.org
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FIRST-CLASS EDUCATION AND ENRICHMENT
Kinetic Kids
Fun and Games in Boerne
Running, Hiking and Hanging Around: Boerne City Park’s playground and trails are a great place to burn off some extra energy. Instructional tennis programs for kids are also held at the park’s eight lighted courts, and swimming lessons by certified instructors are available through Parks & Recreation at the municipal pool. Strength, Agility and Discipline: Boerne Gymnastics Center offers recreational and competitive programs for boys and girls as young as preschool, including gymnastics, tumbling and fitness classes. Party packages with rental of the facility can include a climbing wall, the gymnastics stations or a combination. (www.boernegym.com)
Dig, Set, Spike, Repeat: Along with Northrup Park’s wealth of baseball and softball diamonds, the 103-acre facility also features sand volleyball courts, a covered playground unit, covered basketball court and horseshoe pits. (www.ci.boerne.tx.us)
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Alive and Kickin’: Sports organizations for kids such as the Boerne Soccer Club and Boerne Youth Athletic Association enjoy top-notch facilities maintained by Boerne Parks & Recreation. City Park offers a total of five soccer fields, including three for youth, and eight of the 11 baseball/softball fields at Northrup Park support youth league play.
FIRST-CLASS EDUCATION AND ENRICHMENT
Friends and Fun: Established in 2004 as the local arm of Boys & Girls Club of the Texas Hills Country, the Boys & Girls Club of Boerne exists to offer kids and teens a safe place to learn, to grow socially and to gain self-confidence. Summer and after-school programs are designed to give area youth the opportunity to try new things and learn life lessons — and to have fun, of course. (www.bgcatxhc.org/boerne.html)
The “Y” stands for “Young”: The Boerne Family YMCA has programs for all ages, but growing families are especially excited about the Y’s many fitness and enrichment programs for kids. Day camps, special events, overnight camps, sports camps and league-play sports are just some of the ways that the YMCA helps Boerne youth live a healthy lifestyle and develop new skills. (www.ymcasatx.org)
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FOREMOST IN ARTS AND CULTURE
Creative Expressions
Boerne Is an Artists’ Town By Jay Nehrkorn
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oerne is much more than a town with a lot of artists; it’s an art town. Creative expression is woven throughout the lifestyle and the community enjoys an artistic synergy that is extraordinary and rare, especially in a small-town environment. As a proponent of these artistic endeavors across all art forms, and for people of every skill level, the Hill Country Council for the Arts (HCCArts) works in concert with a variety of stakeholders in the community to advance the region as a cultural destination. Boerne’s widespread enthusiasm for the arts has led to HCCArts’ partnerships with city government, local school districts, the local library foundation, area art galleries, cultural organizations, and development groups such as the Greater Boerne Chamber and Kendall County EDC. HCCArts’ new quarterly gathering, “A Conversation with the Arts,” is expected to broaden communication and further expand these cooperative efforts. “We’re hoping it will be a catalyst for developing even more wide-range cultural plans and programs for our area, and we’re shaping it as a local arts advocacy group by connecting the cultural sector with the business community,” explained HCCArts president Doris Perez. Boerne’s commitment to the arts has already given the community much to boast about. In 2012 there were two new public art projects dedicated, including the heartwarming Father Gander sculpture at River Road Park, by local sculptor Larry Stevens, and Cibolo Nature Center & Farm’s new Inspiration Garden Gate by local artist Phil Simpson. With strong support from the Greater Boerne Chamber, HCCArts is now in the process of raising funds to also make Wild Bill a permanent resident. The world-class bronze of the legendary lawman was created in Boerne by
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artist Erik Christianson, and Perez is enthusiastic about the effort to keep it in town. “The reason we love this sculpture so much is not only because it’s an amazing piece of art, but because it also would be great for photo ops where the whole family could gather around,” said Perez. Boerne hosts a number of events that emphasize the strength of its visual arts community, including 2nd Saturday Art and Wine tours featuring local fine art galleries such as Carriage House, J.R. Mooney, Texas Treasures, Cosas and Highland House. The Boerne Professional Artists organization also spotlights its more than 30 juried members at the annual Parade of Artists, the Texas Hill Country Invitational Art Show and at the BoerneFest Art Show. Local musicians and thespians also have their chances to shine. The acclaimed Boerne Village Band celebrates the German heritage of the community with performances at annual festivals and the city-sponsored Abendkonzert series in June and July. With more than 60 active musicians spanning all age groups and walks of life, the Boerne Concert Band also brings free concerts to Boerne High School Auditorium and Main Plaza throughout the year. And for theatre buffs, Boerne Community Theatre offers five family-friendly productions each season, plus Teen Troupe shows and drama camps to develop the next generation of talent. The pervasiveness of the arts in Boerne impacts the entire community, from the professionals who’ve come to the Texas Hill Country for their livelihood to the students and hobbyists who simply enjoy creative expression. If you believe that being inspired by the arts enriches our lives, then Boerne residents are rich indeed.
FOREMOST IN ARTS AND CULTURE
Humanity in My Lens Boerne Photographer Linda Rukavina By Jay Nehrkorn
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or Linda Rukavina, capturing the essence of a client or an event requires a few simple ingredients: an artist’s eye, a good lens, strong people skills, and just a pinch of creative chaos. As a professional photographer with some formal training in fine arts, Rukavina’s move from San Antonio to Boerne six years ago would seem like a perfect fit. And it was, but not for the reasons you might think. It’s true that she draws inspiration from the beauty of the Hill Country and from Boerne’s incredible art scene, but it’s the people of Boerne, rather than the environment, that really bring out the best in her work. “Landscapes are beautiful, but they’re lonely,” Rukavina laughed. “Ansel Adams, more power to you, but I’m a people person. I get very attached to my clients after we spend a few hours together, and you can’t fake anything for that length of time, so I get to see who they really are — especially in Boerne, because the people here are so genuine and open.” Understanding people is just as important as understanding the camera when it comes to capturing personalities, and Rukavina says that it’s the spontaneous images that set her work apart. “At an event like a wedding, I want to be a fly on the wall so I can capture those special
moments when they don’t realize the camera is even there. Those are the most precious, because that’s when you capture humanity.” Linda’s fine arts background comes to the forefront in her other specialty, composite photography art. To produce this type of work, she blends textures, colors and images to create one piece that captures the many facets of a client or event. “Composites are a whole different animal, and I usually reserve them for very special occasions like a wedding day. I like being able to create a piece of art that encompasses everything in that day. Somebody may walk in and look at all the things I’ve got going on while I’m working on one and think ‘typical crazy artist,’ but if you could get inside my brain you would see that there is a design to all my chaos.” As the photographer for Boerne Lifestyles magazine and this year’s cover designer, she has also added commercial photography to her repertoire. But regardless of the type of project, it’s always about the people for Linda. “That’s what’s great about this job. I get to spend time with people, make friendships with them and then give them something wonderful in return.”
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FOREMOST IN ARTS AND CULTURE
BoerneFest
Bringing Out The Best in Boerne By Amanda Knoles
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est of BoerneFest: Block Party 2013 held on May 17–19, 2013, in Boerne’s Historic District, brought over 5,000 visitors from around Texas for the festival weekend, according to event cochairs David Brown and Jeannemarie Wilson. Brown and Wilson, members of the Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, said the positive response to the first annual Boernefest in 2012 generated even more interest from attendees and exhibitors for the event’s second year. Brown noted that BoerneFest provides tremendous exposure for participating businesses and local artists. “It’s a great opportunity to get the attention of customers they might not ordinarily reach through traditional marketing. The event is a fun and festive gathering where some people come for the art, some for the entertainment, and others just to share in such an uplifting experience with others in our community.” BoerneFest originated through the combined efforts of the Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce, the City of Boerne, the Hill Country Mile and the Hill Country Council for the Arts. According to Paul Barwick, special projects director for the City of Boerne, the idea was to showcase the synergy of Boerne’s culture, community and commerce. “The Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce was exploring options to change the format and location of their yearly Business Expo event, and just about this time the City of Boerne was getting close to substantial completion of the downtown trail project. A collaboration soon formed among several groups, with the Chamber taking the lead to develop an event that not only celebrates local commerce, but embraces local culture and the extended community — all three of which help in making Boerne such a special place,” Barwick explained.
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The first event presented a unique set of challenges. “The first BoerneFest was held outdoors, which always presents a set of new considerations, so the planning group had to work through these issues early on,” Barwick noted. “To make the event memorable it was decided to create elevated fire baskets and place them in the creek, which provided a dramatic evening effect and a wonderful backdrop for businesses, entertainers and participants along the banks of Cibolo Creek. Working on a tight completion date for the trail and Waterworks Terrace was another challenge, but thankfully all worked out well.” The initial BoerneFest featured live music, a chalk garden, open-air art exhibits, a Business Showcase featuring products and presentations from local businesses, and an outstanding array of food provided by some of the area’s best restaurants and caterers. Retailers and restaurants situated along Hill Country Mile extended their hours on Saturday evening, inviting festival-goers to stop in and shop or dine. “We received wonderful comments from the community regarding the event, as it was a family-friendly affair that was open to the community at large and at no charge,” Barwick said. “The variety of entertainment, the concert by the Court Jesters, food, activities, artists demonstrations and performances kept everyone engaged and energized throughout the evening.” In contrast to the 2012 BoerneFest, which ran for five hours, the 2013 festival was extended to become a weekend-long event. “Last year we drew approximately 2,500 to 3,500 participants, and in 2013 we increased that number to between 5,000 and 6,000, drawing from both the greater local community and from a broader region due to the topname performers (Two Tons of Steel and Gary P. Nunn) at the free concerts on Friday and Saturday nights,” explained co-chair Brown. “We wanted to make a statement to the business community and the community at large
© Dave Talboys for ArtGives
FOREMOST IN ARTS AND CULTURE
An event that not only celebrates local commerce, but embraces local culture and the extended community — all three of which help in making Boerne such a special place. that we recognize Boerne as a special place and that they deserve highcaliber entertainment. ” During the weekend-long 2013 BoerneFest, the streets around Boerne’s Main Plaza were turned into a street fair, with brightly colored canopies filling Waterworks Terrace and Blanco from the creek to Main Street. Business booths lined the street, providing visitors with a chance to mingle with local businesspeople and learn more about local products and services. Old San Antonio Street offered stunning fine arts exhibits and demonstrations from local artists, delighting children and adults with a variety of interactive activities and leaving no doubt that Boerne is a culture-rich small town. Main Plaza showcased partnerships between artists and nonprofit organizations, demonstrating how charitable groups can work together to better serve their clients. Technology also played a larger role in the second annual BoerneFest. “We developed a free mobile phone application to support the event,” Brown said. “People using the app could access event schedules; vendor, artist and participating business listings; directions; parking locations; and lodging opportunities from their smart phones, iPhones and Android devices.” The app also provided the ability to post and share photos from the festival on social networking sites. Volunteers from the community have been instrumental in making BoerneFest a success. “The members of our community have been so responsive we did not have to hit the pavement pleading for volunteers,” explained co-chair Wilson. “The Best of BoerneFest Committee is continuously getting calls and emails from individuals and businesses that want to help either in planning or working at the event. We cannot thank the members of our community enough for their enthusiasm, dedication and the time they provide in supporting this event.”
www.boerne.org
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FOREMOST IN ARTS AND CULTURE
More Festivals and Events Can You Come Out and Play?
The Boerne Berges Fest is a three-day, family-friendly German heritage festival that is held every year on Father’s Day weekend, boasting live music, dachshund races, a big parade, the 5K Lederhosen Run, carnival rides for people of all ages, and much more. General admission for the Boerne Berges Fest is FREE, and everyone is welcome.
Downtown Boerne becomes a magical evening destination for the two weekends immediately following Thanksgiving. During Dickens on Main, delight in snow every hour, live music, performing artisans, beautifully decorated shops, even horse-drawn carriages, and of course, Santa Claus! Highlighting the second weekend is the Weihnachts Fest parade on Saturday night.
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Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce
FOREMOST IN ARTS AND CULTURE
The Kendall County Fair supplies home-grown fun in a carnival, rodeo and livestock show. There are Homestead Heritage Exhibits, a parade, multitudes of food and craft booths, live music, clowns, and children’s activities, and each evening closes with a dance. Participate in this Hill Country institution! (Photos courtesy of Jennifer A. Culak)
Go hog wild at the Chamber’s annual Wild Game Dinner at the Kendall County Fairgrounds. Enjoy old favorites or something a little more exotic like fried alligator, bison sliders or bacon-wrapped Nilgai. It’s all about the food at Boerne’s Wild Game Dinner. Admission includes all you can eat of the savory wild game dishes, as well as auctions, games and door prizes.
www.boerne.org
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BOERNE’S MATCHLESS CHARM
Scenic New Venues for Special Events Celebrate in Texas Style By Amanda Knoles
T
he Boerne area has always been a preferred choice for special events. Surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Hill Country, guests enjoy the serenity of nature in unique yet affordable settings for weddings, retreats, family reunions and other special gatherings.
Bella Springs 26 Bella Springs Road, Boerne 830-388-1642 http://thespringsevents.com/bella-springs.html
Open since May 2013, Bella Springs features spectacular views of the surrounding Hill Country and provides many amenities, including 16-hour rentals and access to experienced professionals who can assist with event planning. Family-owned Spring Events has built its reputation on treating clients like family and takes pride in making sure each client’s event is special. Clients are assured of a flexible vendor policy and may choose the convenience of payment plans.
the Helene House event center 111 Staffel Street, Boerne 830-331-8170 www.thehelenehouse.com
A spectacular venue nestled on the banks of the Cibolo Creek in historic downtown Boerne, this is the perfect location for intimate weddings, rehearsal dinners, luncheons and meetings. The private garden area provides an exquisite outdoor setting. The Creek Restaurant offers superb catering. Our caring staff will make your special event one to remember.
Cana Ballroom 222 W. Kronkosky Street, Boerne 830-816-5630 http://canaballroom.com
St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church is a popular wedding venue in Boerne. Founded in the early 1860s, the church has a rich and colorful history and is listed as a historical marker. After the wedding, newly married couples and their guests may walk up beautifully decorated stairways to the grand setting of the Cana Ballroom. Featuring floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning views of the Texas Hill Country and the city of Boerne, the ballroom can accommodate from 200 to 450 guests. Glittering chandeliers, warm candlelight and natural light reflected from the glass walls combine for a truly stunning atmosphere. Other features include a portable wood dance floor, dramatic wood and metal beam ceilings, a commercial-size gourmet kitchen with a walk-in refrigerator and icemaker, a bar area, outdoor patio spaces, and ample parking. In addition to weddings, the ballroom is an impressive venue for awards banquets, corporate parties and meetings, reunions, charity events, and other special occasions. Cana Ballroom event specialists are available to help with planning, event themes, meeting room setups, caterer selection and audiovisual requirements.
Kendall Plantation 20 Guthrie Road, Boerne 210-710-0540 www.kendallplantation.com
Situated just outside of Boerne on a hilltop that overlooks Texas Hill Country, Kendall Plantation offers a scenic and elegant venue for a wedding, reception or corporate retreat.
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Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce
BOERNE’S MATCHLESS CHARM Surrounded by century-old oaks and overlooking a beautiful pond, the antebellum-style property oozes Southern charm with oversized wraparound porches, dramatic white columns and a ballroom featuring a grand staircase, sparkling chandeliers and towering ceilings. Suited for both indoor and outdoor weddings, the venue offers beautiful photo backdrops including a romantic lit gazebo, perfect for sunset and evening ceremonies. Thoughtful touches include a webcam inside the facility that allows people to see the reception or ceremony live from their own computer if they are unable to attend. Offering a seating capacity for up to 400, Kendall Plantation combines a romantic setting with picturesque views and personalized attention to detail for an event that clients and their guests will long remember.
www.boerne.org
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BOERNE’S MATCHLESS CHARM
A Natural Beauty
Some of Boerne’s Best Scenery
Cibolo Creek: Winding its way through City Park and then along River Road as it meanders through town toward Boerne City Lake, Cibolo Creek is one of Boerne’s defining natural features.
Cibolo Nature Center: The trails in this 100-acre natural area in City Park feature four distinct ecosystems: riparian forest, live oak savannah, tall-grass prairie and spring-fed marsh. The courtyard and auditorium, with their beautiful natural backdrop, are popular for weddings. The center offers educational workshops for landowners and a summer camp for kids, as well.
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Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce
BOERNE’S MATCHLESS CHARM
Old No. 9 Trail: Completed in 2004, this 1.4-mile greenway stretching from Esser Road near City Park up to Garden Street was once a rail line of the San Antonio and Aransas Pass Railway. Displaying both a sense of history and natural beauty, the trail offers drinking fountains, a shade pavilion, rest stops and terrific scenery. Joggers, walkers, skaters and cyclists are welcome, as are their leashed pets.
Boerne City Lake: Constructed in the 1970s, Boerne City Lake not only aids in flood control but has proven to be a popular recreational site for the community. Updates were made to City Lake Park in 2005, and the park offers a bird observation blind, butterfly garden, a boat dock, fishing pier and trails.
www.boerne.org
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BOERNE’S MATCHLESS CHARM
Walk Historic Boerne See the Sights on a Heritage Stroll
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37a Samuel V. Champion High School
44 37b
◆ Boerne Chamber of Commerce - 121 S. Main. Be sure to stop in for the most current information. 1. MAIN PLAZA - A famous meeting place since the early days and often the site of festivals, fun. 2. YE KENDALL INN* - 128 W. BLANCO. Built as a home in 1859. Later expanded as a hotel and stage stop. 3. DIENGER BUILDING* (1884) - 210 N. MAIN. Has been a grocery store, residence, restaurant, and office. Now home to the Boerne Public Library. 4. ST. HELENA’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH* (1881) - 410 N. MAIN. Original church built on this site by English settlers; replaced with this lovely Gothic church in 1929.
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Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce
5. HAGEMANN-McGINNIS HOUSE (1890) - 508 N. MAIN. Originally three rooms and basement. Interesting additions enhance early theme. 6. BESELER-HARZ HOUSE* (1905) - 518 N. MAIN. Built by Max Beseler as a home with locally quarried limestone. Note lovely curved porch. 7. A.S. TOEPPERWEIN-WILCOX HOME (1894) - 612 N. MAIN. A.S. was “Ring Tail Rino,” a master craftsman. Note unusual spiral turret and porch. 7. LEESCH-HARZ HOUSE (1907) - 712 N. MAIN. 1.5-story Victorian-style house built by Henry Clemens for Louis Leesch, a descendent of early German settlers. Large, wrap-around porch with pressed tin and gingerbread trim.
7a. HISTORIC BOERNE CEMETERY (1867) - ADVOGT & SCHOOL STREETS. Many early pioneers are buried here, including George Wilkins Kendall. The first burials were of a family scalped by the Indians. Well cared for by the city and the Boerne Cemetery Foundation. 8. FOOTE-HAWKINS HOUSE (1879) - 717 N. MAIN. Built by Avery Foote, an undertaker who died of smallpox. Note unusually steep roof and the two windows at staggered height. 9. KUHFUSS-SCHWEPPE HOUSE (1865) - 512 N. MAIN. Built by William Kuhfuss. Used as courthouse and clerk’s office in early county days.
Map and text reprinted courtesy of The Boerne Star
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BOERNE’S MATCHLESS CHARM 10. LUCKENBACH HOUSE (1860) - 265 N. MAIN. Originally a log cabin expanded on two levels. Recently restored.
22. VOGT-CLEGG CABINS* (1876) - 221 S. PLANT. The only dogtrot type construction in town, these started as one log cabin and were expanded. Restored in excellent condition.
11a. HISTORIC KENDALL COUNTY COURTHOUSE (1870) - 204 E. SAN ANTONIO. Second-oldest Texas courthouse in continuous use. The front portion, designed by Alfred Giles, was added in 1909. Renovated in 1999 for county use when the new courthouse was built.
23. Ebensberger-Fischer Funeral Home (1882) - 111 Rosewood. Oldest continuously operating business in Boerne. One of only two Art Deco buildings in town.
11b. NEW KENDALL COUNTY COURTHOUSE (1999) - 210 E. SAN ANTONIO. New 42,000-sq.-ft. building houses official county offices with state-of-the-art facilities. 12a. KUHLMANN-KING HISTORICAL HOUSE* (1885) - 402 E. BLANCO. Built for Wm. Kuhlmann, a German immigrant, and later owned by Salina King from England. The house and kitchen are operated by the Historical Society and open Sundays 1 to 4 p.m. for tours. 12b. HENRY J. GRAHAM BUILDING* (1891) - 402 E. BLANCO. Originally a bank and has been moved several times with different uses. Now is a museum and open with the Kuhlmann-King House. 13a. BOERNE CITY HALL* (1910) - 402 E. BLANCO. Originally Boerne High School, designed by Alfred Giles. Now city offices and utilities building. 13b. OLD BOERNE PUBLIC SCHOOL* (1870) - 402 E. BLANCO. The first Boerne public school. Restored, now City Hall annex. Displays of old school memorabilia. 14. PHILLIP-MASSEY HOUSE* (1900) - 116 N. PLANT. Built by Julius Phillip and has stayed in the same family for 100 years. Unusual vertical clapboard construction. 15. FABRA SMOKEHOUSE* (1887) - 200 BLOCK S. MAIN. Was part of the Fabra Grocery and Butcher Shop. Incorporated into the architecture of the big building to preserve it. 16. OLD CITIZEN’S STATE BANK (1880) - 210 N. MAIN. Note architectural columns and arches, unusual for this area. Now used for commercial businesses. 17. THEIS HOUSE* (1858) - 100 BLOCK NEWTON. One of the oldest structures in town. Of rare palisades construction. Was home to the Theis family with blacksmith shop in front. Restored by Ruby and Edgar Bergmann. 18. WENDLER-HOUSTON HOUSE (1860) - 303 S. MAIN. Built by Henry Wendler, a cabinet maker and early Boerne businessman. 19. KRAUSE BLDG AND ORT’S SALOON (1900) - 259 S. MAIN. Was residence for the Frank Krause family, a store and saloon. Now a part of Olde Towne and home to the Tall Pony. 19a. OLDE TOWNE - 265 S. MAIN. A collection of old, original historic buildings, including Alte Stadt Mall, now a shopping complex with quaint one-of-a-kind shops. 20. SCHRADER-HARTMAN HOUSE (1890) - 115 E. JAMES. Has been in the same family since it was built. Note unusual porch and woodwork. 21. LUCKENBACH-ASHER HOUSE (1894) - 118 E. JAMES. This house and that next door, LUCKENBACH-MITCHELL HOUSE, are two of the oldest German pioneer limestone homes in Boerne, built by Julius Luckenbach.
24. ST. JOHN’S LUTHERAN CHURCH (1929) - 217 E. ROSEWOOD. Original church dates to 1829 with this and other expansions. Unique interior. 25. PAUL HOLEKAMP HOUSE (1906) - 507 E. JAMES. Pioneer family home. Excellent example of Victorian architecture, built by Ed Clemens of cream brick, rare in area. 26. CLEMENS/HEATH HOUSE (1909) - 608 E. THEISSEN. Built by Ed Clemens with rare cream brick. Note large, rounded porch. 27. DAVIS-KIDWELL HOUSE (1910) - 228 E. THEISSEN. Was in Davis family for many years. Now owned by the Methodist Church. 28. KUTZER HOUSE* (1890) - 208 E. THEISSEN. Has been greatly altered with added porch and room. Now used as Methodist parsonage. 29. GOTTLIEB WEISS HOUSE (1887) - 106 E. THEISSEN. Mr. Weiss was a German pioneer blacksmith with his shop in the back. Was in the same family for over 100 years. Now commercial. 30. JOE VOGT BUILDING (1912) - 401 S. MAIN. Originally a grocery and dry goods store. Now a bakery. 31. PEACH TREE COUNTRY KITCHEN (1900) - 448 S. MAIN. Note this is one of three Victorian houses built in a row by Ed Clemens. All had picket fences, some of which have been restored. 32. VOGT-RICHTER HOUSE (1914) - 124 PECAN. Another Ed Clemens house with Victorian porch and columns. Note trees, unusual for the area. 33. BELL-URBAN HOUSE (1895) - 312 RIVER RD. This was moved in and little is known of origin. Tastefully restored, it is now commercial. 34. DIETERT HOUSE (1850s) - 604 RIVER RD. Early pioneer home of Wm. Dietert, who had the first business in Boerne: a mill where the dam is located across the street. Very interesting house and history. Now commercial. 35. EBENSBERGER-MURPHY HOUSE (1925) - 136 COTTONWOOD. A unique design for this area; made of hollow brick with white stucco cover.
37b. CIBOLO nature center (1988) - S. CITY PARK RD. A 70-acre wilderness preserved the way it looked to pioneers in 1840s; four distinct trails of marsh, prairie, cypress creek bottom, and upland woods; gift shop; and casts of dinosaur tracks found in Boerne after flood of 1998. 38. PHILLIP MANOR (1860) - 706 S. MAIN. Started as a house and grew into a hotel. Note winding staircase and antiques inside. 39. KIDWELL HOUSE (1879) - 714 S. MAIN. Was originally a grocery store and renovated in 1950 as a residence. Note rough limestone exterior. 40. ST. PETER THE APOSTLE CATHOLIC CHURCHES - The little church on the right was built in 1866 by George W. Kendall for his French wife.* The 1923 church was enlarged after saving most of the original structure, which was built by parishioners with rocks from their ranches; designed after Mission Concepción in San Antonio. 41. KRONKOSKY TOWER (1911) - HIGHLAND DR. Built by Albert Kronkosky as part of his estate, now the property of the Benedictine Sisters. The best view in town. 42. BENEDICTINE CONVENT (1933) - On Highland Drive property. Served as the mother house for many years; a school, St. Albert’s Hall is operated by nuns who have made pool facilities available to senior citizens. 43. SCHWARZ-OPPERMANN HOUSE (1860) - 911 S. MAIN. Early family home in the “Sunday House” style with outside stairs. Has been restored and used as a bed and breakfast. 44. DAVIS PIONEER HOME (1860) - 103 KRONKOSKY. “Sunday House” restored by Harry Davis family. 45. AMMANN-DAVIS-NICCUM HOUSE (1905) - 207 S. LANDA. Restored by the Niccums to its original exterior. Note unusual side door on right. 46. VETERAN’S PARK (1923) - Monument erected by the Graham family to honor all local men who died in military action defending the United States. Sculpture representing the different services was later done by J Hester, local artist. 47. CARSTANJEN HOME-EL chaparrAl (1872) - 705 S. MAIN. Also known as the Hall Mansion, it was once used as an annex to Phillip Manor Hotel in the early days. Now a restaurant. 48. ROBERT E. LEE HOUSE* (1860) - 525 S. MAIN. It is said that General Lee stayed here on his way to Ft. Sam Houston from Camp Verde. It was part of the O’Grady Inn, operating before the Civil War.
36. EBENSBERGER-THOMPSON HOUSE (1914) 116 COTTONWOOD. An Ed Clemens house built for Pat Ebensberger before 136 Cottonwood was built. 37a. AGRICULTURAL HERITAGE MUSEUM (1986) - on PARK RD. An outgrowth of the 1986 Texas Sesquicentennial in Kendall County, it is a working museum that preserves examples of early farming and ranching. See blacksmith and carpentry shop, smokehouse, and the pioneer house, built by volunteers on the property.
Compiled by Col. Bettie Edmonds, 1999
*Denotes building is a Texas Historical Landmark
www.boerne.org
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BOERNE’S MATCHLESS CHARM
Hill Country Homes
An Eclectic Market for Home Buyers By Amanda Knoles
B
oerne has always been a sought-after location for buyers interested in Hill Country properties. With its laid-back lifestyle and easy commuting distance to San Antonio, it offers a family-friendly environment and is known for its excellent schools. The influx of new residents moving to Boerne over the last 10 years has motivated home builders to create several new subdivisions, and that has resulted in a wider choice of available home styles for buyers today. Appealing to all tastes and budgets, homes in Boerne span a broad price range, running from starter homes at $140,000 to $3 million and up. Buyers may choose from luxury homes with hilltop views to recently renovated and historic homes in established neighborhoods. Gated communities offer amenities like golf courses and pools, while older homes near downtown have experienced newfound popularity with the continuing development of Hill Country Mile. Home builders in the newer subdivisions have designed homes that offer a variety of contemporary amenities, from spa bathrooms to open concept living areas and multi-purpose rooms that can be used as an office, game room or hobby space. “The greatest demand is for four-bedroom homes in the 3,800- to 4,500-square-foot range,” noted REALTOR® Denise Graves of Phyllis Browning-The Graves Group. “People are looking for flexible living spaces, great kitchens and outdoor entertaining spaces.” Buyers seeking newer homes have a choice of several recently developed subdivisions near the city limits and within the Boerne Independent School District:
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Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce
BOERNE’S MATCHLESS CHARM
• The Enclave at Frederick Creek, a development from Ryland Homes, is situated at the northern edge of town and offers easy access to parks, shopping, dining and major highways. Move-in-ready new homes are available starting at $244,000. • Fair Oaks Ranch features homes in the $250,000 to $1 million range and offers amenities likes golf, tennis, jogging trails, swimming pools and playgrounds. • Napa Oaks is a gated community with lot sizes from one to three acres and homes in the $275,000 to $450,000 range. • Menger Springs in Boerne features distinctive Hill Country homes in the $600,000 to $900,000 range, as well as smaller garden homes suitable for first-time buyers and seniors. “The small-town charm of the community, the excellent schools and the close proximity to San Antonio make Boerne a very desirable place to live,” said Graves. “It isn’t a buyer’s or seller’s market in Boerne. The market is very balanced and homes are priced correctly. Since the last half of 2012 we have seen a real improvement in the local real estate market, and that trend has continued.”
Home Prices In Boerne Median sale price.................................. $255,000 Average listing price.............................. $450,000 Average price per square foot...................... $132 Source: Trulia.com (March 2013)
www.boerne.org
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IMPORTANT NUMBERS TO KNOW
Facts, Stats & Local Contacts Demographics
10 11
Employment by Industry
Population Boerne
2000...................................................... 6,178 7
2011.....................................................10,884 % Change............................................. +76.2% Kendall County
2000.....................................................23,743
9
8
10 11
1
9
8 7
6
01 Educational & Health Services Trade, Transportation & Utilities 01 Educational02 & Health Services
1
02 Trade, Transportation & Utilities 03 Leisure & Hospitality 03 Leisure & Hospitality 04 Professional & 04 Professional & Business Services
6
2012.....................................................35,956 % Change............................................. +51.4% Source: U.S. Census Bureau
Distance to Major Texas Cities Highway Driving miles time
San Antonio.............. 31....................... 29 mins. Austin....................... 91.............1 hour 26 mins. Houston................... 224...........3 hours 11 mins. Fort Worth................ 259...........4 hours 01 mins. Dallas...................... 288...........4 hours 12 mins. Source: Rand McNally
Climate
Temperature - 10-year Avg Avg. high Avg. low
January.................. 61.8°F.......................36.0°F April...................... 79.7°F.......................54.1°F
5
07 Financial Activities
5
08 Other 08 Other 09 Public Administration 2 4
2
4
10 Information09 Public Administration 11 Natural Resources & Mining
3
Wamest month is August, with an avg high of 94.4°F Source: weather-warehouse.com - based on NWS data
Precipitation & Sunshine Annual Average..............................37.36 inches Average Wettest Month (June).............4.77 inches
10 Information 11 Natural Resources & Mining
3 Solutions, 2012 Source: Texas Workforce
Unemployment Rate median household income 10%
$80,000 8
70,000 60,000
6
50,000 40,000
4
30,000
July........................ 91.9°F.......................69.3°F October................. 80.8°F.......................54.8°F
Business Services
05 Construction 05 Construction 06 Manufacturing 06 Manufacturing 07 Financial Activities
2 0
United States 8.1%
Kendall Texas County 6.8% 5.5%
20,000 10,000 0
Source: Texas Workforce Commission, 2012 average (not seasonally adjusted)
United States
Texas
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 5-Year Estimates 2007-2011
Educational Attainment
Average Driest Month (January)...........1.79 inches Annual Chance of Sunshine....................... 61.1% Sunniest Month (August)............................ 80.7% Least Sunny Month (January)...................... 48.4% Source: www.homefacts.com/weather
Boerne: 90.7%
High School Graduate Or Higher
Kendall County: 90.7% Texas: 80.4% U.S.: 85.4%
Cost of Living
National Average = 100 Composite................................................. 88.5 Grocery Items............................................ 81.9 Housing.................................................... 82.1 Utilities...................................................... 84.2
Boerne: 31.5%
Bachelor’s Degree Or Higher
Kendall County: 36.6% Texas: 26.1%
Transportation............................................ 98.7 Health Care............................................... 97.3 Miscellaneous Goods & Services.................. 92.7 Source: ACCRA Cost of Living Index, San Antonio Metro, 2012 Annual Average
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Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce
U.S.: 28.2%
0
20
40
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 5-Year Estimates 2007–2011
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Kendall County
$52,762 $50,920 $72,092
80
100%
IMPORTANT NUMBERS TO KNOW
Important Phone Numbers Government City of Boerne
402 E. Blanco, Boerne TX 78006 830-249-9511 www.ci.boerne.tx.us Emergency......................................................911 Animal Services........................... 830-249-2456 Building Permits & Inspections........ 830-248-1529 City Manager.............................. 830-249-9511 City Secretary.............................. 830-248-1525 Convention & Community Center.... 830-249-2811 Convention & Visitors Bureau......... 830-249-7277 Finance....................................... 830-249-9511 Fire Department (non-emergency).... 830-249-3644 Fire Marshal................................ 830-249-9511 Human Resources......................... 830-248-1539 Information Technology................. 830-249-9511 Library........................................ 830-249-3053 Mayor........................................ 830-249-9511 Parks & Recreation....................... 830-249-9511 Planning & Community Development............ 830-249-9511 Police Department (non-emergency)........................ 830-249-8645 Public Relations............................ 830-249-9511 Public Works................................ 830-248-1538 Utilities Billing/Customer Service.... 830-249-9511 After Hours............................... 830-248-1633
Kendall County 201 E. San Antonio St., Boerne TX 78006 830-249-9343 www.co.kendall.tx.us Emergency......................................................911 AgriLife Extension Service......... 830-249-9343 ext. 362 Animal Control............................. 830-537-3430 Animal Control Dispatch................ 830-249-8645 Appraisal District.......................... 830-249-8012 Constable P ct 1.......................... 830-249-9343 ext. 334 Pct 2....................................... 830-249-2171 Pct 3....................................... 830-249-2820 Pct 4....................................... 830-995-3386 County Attorney........................... 830-249-9343 County Auditor................ 830-249-9343 ext. 240 County Clerk................... 830-249-9343 ext. 230 County Court at Law........ 830-249-9343 ext. 310 Development Management & 9-1-1 Rural Addressing........... 830-331-8251 .............................................. 830-331-8253 District Clerk................... 830-249-9343 ext. 260 Election & Voter Registration......... 830-249-9343 ext. 609 EMS (non-emergency)................... 830-249-3721 Engineer........................ 830-249-9343 ext. 300 Fire (non-emergency)..................... 830-249-3721
www.boerne.org
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IMPORTANT NUMBERS TO KNOW GIS............................... 830-249-9343 ext. 302 Health Inspection............. 830-249-9343 ext. 214 Home Agent................... 830-249-9343 ext. 361 Human Resources............ 830-249-9343 ext. 600 Indigent Health & Housing................... 830-249-9343 ext. 351 Justice of the Peace P ct 1.......................... 830-249-9343 ext. 334 Pct 2....................................... 830-249-8404 Pct 3....................................... 830-249-2820 Pct 4....................................... 830-995-2031 Maintenance & Operations............... 830-249-9343 ext. 380 Parks Department......................... 830-537-3470 Road & Bridge............................. 830-995-2995 Sheriff Office...................................... 830-249-9721 Dispatch.................................. 830-249-8645 Surveying.................................... 830-249-3385 Tax Assessor & Collector.. 830-249-9343 ext. 270 Treasurer........................ 830-249-9343 ext. 220
State of Texas House/Senate texas state representative doug miller district 73
Capitol P.O. Box 2910 Austin TX 78768....................... 512-463-0325 District 387 W. Mill St. New Braunfels TX 78130........... 830-625-1313 texas state senator Donna Campbell district 25
Capitol P.O. Box 12068, Capitol Station Austin TX 78711....................... 512-463-0125 District 1902 E. Common St., Suite 500 New Braunfels, TX 78130.......... 830-626-0065
U.S. Congress u.s. senator john cornyn
http://cornyn.senate.gov
Elected Representatives
Washington, D.C. 517 Hart Senate Office Bldg. Washington, D.C. 20510.......... 202-224-2934
Mayor Mike Schultz mschultz@ci.boerne.tx.us
San Antonio 600 Navarro, Suite 210 San Antonio TX 78205.............. 210-224-7485
City of Boerne Mayor & Council Jeff Haberstroh, District 1 jhaberstroh@ci.boerne.tx.us
u.s. senator Ted Cruz
Mayor Pro Tem Nina Woolard, District 2 nwoolard@ci.boerne.tx.us
Washington, D.C. B40B Dirksen Senate Office Bldg. Washington, D.C. 20510.......... 202-224-5922
J. Kuper, District 3 jkuper@ci.boerne.tx.us
http://cruz.senate.gov/
Ron Cisneros, District 4 rcisneros@ci.boerne.tx.us
San Antonio 3133 General Hudnell Drive, Suite 120 San Antonio TX 78226.............. 210-340-2885
Christina Bergmann, District 5 cbergmann@ci.boerne.tx.us
u.s. representative lamar smith district 21
Kendall County Gaylan Schroeder Judge............................. 830-249-9343 ext. 210 Mike Fincke Commissioner Precinct 1............... 830-249-9343 Gene Miertschin Commissioner Precinct 2............... 830-331-8202 Darrel L. Lux Commissioner Precinct 3............... 830-336-2881 Kenneth Rusch Commissioner Precinct 4............... 830-995-3798
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Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce
http://lamarsmith.house.gov Washington, D.C. 2409 Rayburn House Office Bldg. Washington, D.C. 20515.......... 202-225-4236 San Antonio 1100 NE Loop 410, Suite 640 San Antonio TX 78209.............. 210-821-5024
Business & Community Services Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce
121 S. Main St. Boerne TX 78006......................... 830-249-8000 www.boerne.org boerne convention & visitors bureau
1407 S. Main St. Boerne TX 78006......................... 830-249-7277 www.visitboerne.org boerne public library
210 N. Main St. Boerne TX 78006......................... 830-249-3053 www.boernelibrary.org the boerne star
941 N. School St. Boerne TX 78006......................... 830-249-2441 www.boernestar.com kendall county economic development corporation
1221 S. Main, Suite 100.............. 830-331-9070 www.kendallcountyedc.com
Education Preschool
apple tree day school
18 Scenic Loop Boerne TX 78006......................... 830-981-4343 www.appletreedayschool.com cdi headstart
216 W. Highland Drive Boerne TX 78006......................... 720-747-5114
K–12 boerne independent school district
123 W. Johns Road Boerne TX 78006......................... 830-357-2000 www.boerne-isd.net comfort independent school district
327 High St. Comfort TX 78013....................... 830-995-6400 www.comfort.txed.net geneva school of boerne
113 Cascade Caverns Road Boerne TX 78015......................... 830-755-6101 www.genevaschooltx.org
IMPORTANT NUMBERS TO KNOW hill country montessori
wellmed at boerne
50 Stone Wall Drive Boerne TX 78006............................................................ 830-229-5377 www.hcmontessori.org
124 E. Bandera Road, Suite 102 Boerne, TX 78006 www.wellmedmedicalgroup.com........................................ 830-816-2312
tmi - the episcopal school of texas
20955 W. Tejas Trail San Antonio TX 78257.................................................... 210-698-7171 http://community.tmi-sa.org vanguard institute
43360 IH10 W Boerne TX 78006............................................................ 830-537-5244 www.vanguardchristianinstitute.com winston school of san antonio
8565 Ewing Halsell San Antonio, TX 78028................................................... 210-615-6544 www.winston-sa.org
Higher Education alamo community college district
201 W. Sheridan San Antonio TX 78204.................................................... 210-485-0000 www.alamo.edu northwest vista college
3535 N. Ellison Dr. MLH-234 San Antonio, TX 78251 www.alamo.edu/nvc/...................................................... 210-486-4000 schreiner university
2100 Memorial Blvd. Kerrville TX 78028.......................................................... 830-896-5411 www.schreiner.edu texas tech university
2500 Broadway Lubbock TX 79409.......................................................... 806-742-2011 www.ttu.edu the university of texas at san antonio
One UTSA Circle San Antonio TX 78249.................................................... 210-458-4011 www.utsa.edu
Health Care: Hospitals & Clinics boerne family medicine
1430 S. Main St., Suite 111 Boerne TX 78006............................................................ 830-331-8585 www.boernefamilymedicine.com boerne medical clinic
For a full listing of Chamber-member health facilities and specialists, please visit www.boerne.org.
Churches boerne church of christ
1 Upper Balcones Road Boerne TX 78006............................................................ 830-249-2685 www.boernechurchofchrist.org first baptist church
631 S. School Street Boerne TX 78006............................................................ 830-249-2527 www.fbcboerne.org first united methodist church
205 E. James St. Boerne TX 78006............................................................ 830-249-2565 www.fumc-boerne.org kendall county cowboy church
1307 River Road Boerne TX 78006............................................................ 210-669-7819 www.kendallcountycowboychurch.org our savior lutheran community
1361 S. Main, YMCA Facility Boerne TX 78006............................................................ 210-602-9776 www.oursaviorsanantonio.org messiah lutheran church
9401 Dietz Elkhorn Boerne TX 78006............................................................ 830-755-4300 www.messiahboerne.org st. john lutheran church
315 E. Rosewood Ave. Boerne TX 78006............................................................ 830-249-3651 st. peter the apostle catholic church - cana ballroom
202 W. Kronkosky Boerne TX 78006............................................................ 830-816-5630 http://canaballroom.com trinity presbyterian church (pca)
P.O. Box 287 Boerne TX 78006............................................................ 830-815-1212 www.trinityboerne.org All congregations listed are members of the Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce as of 3/20/2013.
120 Medical Drive Boerne TX 78006............................................................ 830-249-9307 boerne urgent care & occupational health center, p.a.
1201 S. Main, Suite 118 Boerne TX 78006............................................................ 830-815-1081 www.boerneurgentcare.com hill country memorial
1020 S. State Highway 16 Fredericksburg TX 78624 www.hillcountrymemorial.org............................................ 830-997-4353 methodist boerne emergency center
134 Menger Springs, Suite 2000 Boerne TX 78006 www.boernehealth.com.................................................... 830-331-3000
www.boerne.org
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THANKS TO THE SUPPORTERS OF THIS PROJECT
Index of Advertisers A-1 Red White and Blue Mini Storage....... 41 A Long Stay Retirement Village................. 44 Ancira RV / Ancira Buick GMC Trucks....... 29 B.W. Baker Builder Incorporated............... 41 Belleza at Cresta Bella............................. 33 Billy’s Western Wear............................... 33 Boerne Church of Christ........................... 10 Boerne Collision Center........................... 44 Boerne Community Theatre....................... 26 Boerne Fairfield Inn & Suites..................... 29 Boerne Family YMCA.............................. 25 Boerne Gymnastics Center....................... 21 Boerne Jewelers...................................... 27 Boerne Property Services............................ 3 Culligan Texas Hill Country...................... 39 Dance Dominion..................................... 25 Davison Insurance Agency, L.L.C............... 10 Ebensberger-Fisher Funeral Home................ 9 Farmers Insurance Group Michael E. Glick.................................. 15 Geneva School of Boerne......................... 21 The Graves Group.................................. 15 Hampton Inn & Suites.............................. 15 Herbst Veterinary Hospital........................ 15 Hill Country Montessori School................. 23 JPC Financial Resources – Lynn Pendley..... 27 Ken Batchelor Cadillac.... Outside Back Cover Kendall County Abstract Company.............. 6 Kendall Plantation.............. Inside Back Cover La Quinta Inn & Suites Boerne.................. 45 Lester’s Automotive Center........................ 25 Little Gretel Restaurant............................. 41 Mathnasium........................................... 23 McRae M.D. Medical Laser Spa................ 42 Methodist Boerne Emergency Center.......Inside Front Cover; 1 Mission Pharmacal.................................... 8 Moon Mippy.......................................... 23 On The Move Insurance Agency............... 38 Our Savior Lutheran Community Evangelical Lutheran Church of America.... 29 Riverview Nursing & Rehabilitation............ 39 Rock Pharmacy......................................... 3 RSC @ Kronkosky Place........................... 44 Rukavina Photography............................. 27 Texas Heritage Bank.................................. 2 Texas Investors Title................................. 10 Town and Country Manor Nursing & Rehabilitation....................... 44 Toyota of Boerne..................................... 17 TriCounty Home Health............................ 43 The Wagmore Pet Resort.......................... 21 Walmart................................................ 10 The Woodland Apartments....................... 42
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Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce
THANKS TO THE SUPPORTERS OF THIS PROJECT
Preferred Business Listings Accountants
Automotive
Churches First United Methodist Church
Boerne Import Auto Werks, LLC
1034 N. Main Street Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 816-2090.......................... fax (830) 816-3350 biawllc@aol.com
Akin, Doherty, Klein & Feuge, P.C.
507 E. Blanco Road, Suite 101 Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 815-1100.......................... fax (210) 829-4080 howard.klein@adkf.com or jasonc@adkf.com www.adkf.com
We Specialize in European and Asian Imports: BMW, M/B, Volvo, VW, etc. Our specialty is preventative maintenance as well as engine, chassis, brake systems and a/c repair. We would love the chance to meet with you. Call Today!
806 River Road Boerne, TX 78006 (210) 771-7919 www.copperdragonfly.net
Authentic Custom Homes, LLC
Ryland Homes
Art Galleries & Artists
Copper Dragonfly Boutique offers unique clothing and gifts, featuring jewelry, pottery and art by local artisans. You ask — We listen! Now available, T-Shirt orders upon request.
139 Village Park Drive Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 816-7100.......................... fax (830) 816-7101 www.achomes.com
Authentic Custom Homes builds environments where life takes place. As the foremost Texas Hill Country design-build firm, Authentic Custom Homes has brought art to life for nearly three decades.
Welcome to Boerne’s most enjoyable gated townhome rental community. On-site management staff, crystal-clear swimming pool, hot tub and workout facility! “Welcome Home!”
Financial Services
A reconciling in Christ congregation. Sundays 10:30 a.m. at Boerne YMCA.
Clothing / Apparel
Belleza at Cresta Bella
1000 Diamond Drive Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 331-4004.......................... fax (830) 249-3924 www.rentstonecreek.com
104 Spring Creek Boerne, TX 78006 (210) 602-9776 steve@oursaviorsanantonio.org www.oursaviorsanantonio.org
Family owned and operated Independent Agency. We specialize in auto, home, commercial, life and health insurance and offer 24-hour claim service. “Insuring Your Life, Your Way.”
Copper Dragonfly Boutique
Apartments
Stone Creek Village, Luxury Townhomes
Our Savior Lutheran Community
136 Old San Antonio Road, Suite 306 Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 816-5272 gordon@hccitx.com www.hccitx.com
Builders
Akin, Doherty, Klein & Feuge, P.C., is a fullservice firm that employs a broad range of accounting, tax, audit and consulting services with superior assistance to help our clients meet their goals and objectives.
20202 Cresta Avenida San Antonio, TX 78256 (210) 487-7878 cwidby@nrpgroup.com www.livebelleza.com
205 E. James Street Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 249-2565.......................... fax (830) 249-8553 rburk@fumc-boerne.org
Hill Country Custom Insurance
229 Chisholm Drive Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 816-5065 w ww.ryland.com/find-your-new-home/ 20-San-Antonio/ 4061g-the-woods-of-frederick-creek.html
Carpet, Upholstery, Tile & Grout Cleaning
Engineering
Capital Farm Credit
404 E. Ramsey Road, Suite 102 San Antonio, TX 78216 (210) 348-6681.......................... fax (210) 348-6789 Laura Martinez www.capitalfarmcredit.com
Capital Farm Credit
1001 Sidney Baker Street Kerrville, TX 78028 (830) 257-4444 Steven Ahrens
Furniture & Interior Design Calamity Jane’s Trading Co.
LNV, Inc.
8918 Tesoro Drive, Suite 401 San Antonio, TX 78217 (210) 822-2232.......................... fax (210) 822-4032 dnaiser@lnvinc.com
Water and wastewater, transportation, structural, architectural, environmental, survey, construction, asset management, energy, drainage and flood control. Our broad continuum of services is tailored to meet the needs of clients where they want to be met.
404 S. Main Street Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 249-0081.......................... fax (830) 249-0082 calamityjanes@hotmail.com www.calamityjanestradingco.com
Browse our ever-changing selection of fine Hill Country furnishings and decor for your home, ranch or office. Design assistance and custom orders always available.
Guns - Retail
Aladdin Cleaning & Restoration of Boerne
37131 IH 10 W, Suite 500-5 Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 816-5254.......................... fax (210) 736-2521
Poznecki-Camarillo, Inc. Cedar Removal
Since 1981, providing civil engineering, surveying and environmental services to private and government clients for projects involving roadways, utilities, drainage, and residential and commercial land development.
Boerne Professional Artists
P.O. Box 2374 Boerne, TX 78006-6374 (830) 816-2345.......................... fax (830) 816-2345 www.boerneprofessionalartists.com
Boerne Professional Artists (BPA) is an association that is dedicated to presenting opportunities that promote professional artists, art galleries and venues that support the visual arts in the Boerne area.
5835 Callaghan Road, Suite 200 San Antonio, TX 78228 (210) 349-3273.......................... fax (210) 349-4395 www.pozcam.com
Cedar Eaters of Texas
Financial Planning
P.O. Box 196 Boerne, TX 78006 (210) 745-2743 ccarpenter@cedareater.com
Cedar Eaters of Texas does environmentally friendly land clearing and restoration. Our services include cedar and brush mulching, mesquite grubbing, tree shearing, hand crew cutting and chipping.
Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce
401 S. Brackenridge Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 249-8519.......................... fax (210) 547-9559 dlwhite@gvtc.com www.BearArmsTexas.com
Bear Arms is your source for both new and used firearms, scopes and accessories. We also offer top-quality gun repair, modification and custom builds for your modern, classic, antique or sporting arms.
Gutters GATLIN & HICKS WEALTH MANAGEMENT
124 E. Bandera Road, Suite 202 Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 331-9252.......................... fax (830) 331-9258
For over 15 years, Case Gatlin has striven to help his clients make decisions that enhance their lifestyles, benefit their families and lead them to financial independence. We are a full-service investment firm.
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Bear Arms
Gutters Plus
P. O. Box 861 Comfort, TX 78013 (830) 249-9489 dutchshort@yahoo.com
THANKS TO THE SUPPORTERS OF THIS PROJECT Insurance
Medical
Physical Therapy
Morningside Ministries-Menger Springs Davison Insurance Agency, LLC
915 N. Main Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 249-6112.......................... fax (830) 248-1043 davins@gvtc.com www.davison-insurance.com
With our quality insurance companies, we can take care of all your insurance needs all at once. Let our 30-plus years of experience help save you time and money!
Glick Insurance Agency Farmers Insurance
116 N. Plant Avenue Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 816-9488.......................... fax (830) 249-9077 mglick@farmersagent.com www.farmersagent.com/mglick
Lifetime Dental
1415 E. Blanco Road, Suite 16 Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 249-9300
We’re in the people business, providing exceptional dental care. Our #1 priority: Make all patients feel welcome and comfortable! With new technology and complimentary insurance filing, we offer Gentle Family & Cosmetic Care. Schedule an appointment today!
P.O. Box 311508 New Braunfels, TX 78131 (800) 299-1800 customercare@miller-miller.com
Parties, Picnics, Events
Alamo Power Sports: home to Alamo BMW & Triumph motorcycles, Alamo Sports Cars European auto service & Alamo Karts Go Kart race track — join us! Find us at www. alamopowersports.com.
Nursery
Steinbrunner Landscaping
141 Saddle Horn Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 377-6406 www.steinbrunnerlandscaping.com
David Steinbrunner is a horticulture graduate from Texas A&M University with over 25 years in landscaping. David is 100% organic and specializes in residential landscaping design and installation.
17503 LaCantera Parkway, Suite 104-480 San Antonio, TX 78257 (210) 887-4982 cherisheddesign@yahoo.com
Cherished is a unique event decorating company that can meet your special event needs. We decorate for small gatherings in your home, nonprofit events, cocktail parties, holiday parties, reunions, galas and dreamy weddings. It will be customized and unique, specifically designed for your occasion or celebration.
Burns Garden Center and Landscape
Burns Garden Center is a full retail nursery for all your outdoor needs. We stock annuals, perennials, Southwest/Texas natives, trees, shrubs, herbs, vegetables, succulents, etc. Custom Container Arrangements. Also a Landscape design and build firm.
Nursing Homes & Nursing Care Communities
1440 River Road Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 816-5095.......................... fax (830) 816-5096 www.cibolocreekhealth.org
Boerne’s newest rehab, with a state-of-the-art therapy gym offering short- and long-term placement. Rehab close to home in our private rooms — our beautiful center will rejuvenate your soul.
BPTI provides the greater Hill Country community with licensed physical therapists who are experts in helping people recover greater physical mobility. We are the oldest and largest PT facility in the Kendall County area.
Barnes & Company, Inc.
P.O. Box 2350 Boerne, TX 78006 (210) 615-1100.......................... fax (210) 568-6773 todd@barnes-mail.com www.vbarnesandcompanyinc.com
Barnes & Company is a complete business solutions organization. Payroll, Worker’s Compensation Insurance, Risk Management, Employee Benefits, HR Practices and Procedures, as well as Marketing and Receivables Management.
Promotional Products Oak Hills Pest Control, Inc.
107 Parkway Drive Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 249-3575.......................... fax (830) 249-4620 www.oakhillspestcontrol.com
Family owned and operated since 1977. Voted Best of the Best for over 10 years. We offer a full range of services, including pest, lawns, trees and termites.
Pharmacy
Lodging Cibolo Creek - Rehab. Health. Living
1411 S. Main Street, Suite 102 Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 249-7211.......................... fax (830) 249-4698 bpt@boernepti.com
Cherished Design & Decor
Pest Control Service
25840 IH 10 W, Suite C Boerne, TX 78006 (210) 698-9669 melissa@burnsnursery.com www.burnsnursery.com
Boerne Physical Therapy Institute
Professional Employer Organization (PEO)
Alamo Power Sports
Serving the Texas Hill Country • Auto - Home - Business - Life - Health • Our new Boerne location coming soon
Landscape Design & Installation
Morningside Ministries at Menger Springs is a faith-based, nonprofit community serving seniors. We provide a range of housing and health services, from independent and assisted living, to rehabilitation and nursing care.
Motorcycles & Apparel
25600 IH 10 W Boerne, TX 78006 (210) 828-5511.......................... fax (210) 828-3330 info@alamobmw.com www.alamopowersports.com
Miller & Miller Insurance
121 S. Main Street P.O. Box 2328 Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 249-8000.......................... fax (830) 249-9639 crisanne@boerne.org www.boerne.org
Rock Pharmacy L.L.C.
134 Menger Springs, Suite 1220 Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 357-5052.......................... fax (830) 357-5053 peter@rockpharmacytoday.com www.rockpharmacytoday.com
Rock Pharmacy provides free prescription services to their patients. If you need diabetic shoes, immunization, durable medical equipment, prescription transfer or weight-loss solution, give us a call today and you will receive prompt and courteous service!
CH Graphics, Inc.
P.O. Box 1601 Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 755-6550 jwebb@chgraphics.com www.chgraphics.com
Joined the printing and embroidery industry in 2006. We offer all size businesses high-quality graphic design, customized print, promotional items and embroidery products. Turn-key solution from project, concept, to print.
Propane or Liquified Petroleum Gas
Propane Depot Comfort Inn & Suites
35000 IH 10 W. Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 249-6800.......................... fax (830) 249-6900 gm.txf05@choicehotels.com www.comfortinn.com/hotel-boerne-texas-txf05
The Comfort Inn & Suites offers complimentary hot breakfast, complimentary wired and wireless Internet, business center, fitness center, heated pool, and newly renovated rooms with microwave and refrigerator in each room.
8550 Highway 16 South Pipe Creek, TX 78063 (830) 510-4777 propanedepot@78603.com http://propanedepot.net
Full-service Propane Gas delivery company. Tank installations, propane piping and safety check. Cylinder filling and delivery. RV and Motor Fuel. Two locations to serve you. Serving Kendall County since 1933.
www.boerne.org
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THANKS TO THE SUPPORTERS OF THIS PROJECT Psychologists Family Changes Play Therapy Clinic
28580 IH-10 West, Suite # 4 Boerne, TX 78006 (210) 202-1999.......................... fax (888) 723-1795 johnson.jessica1214@gmail.com www.familychangesplaytherapy.com
O’Brien’s Restaurant
848 State Highway 46 E Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 229-5600.......................... fax (830) 336-4723 obriens@gvtc.com www.obriensbergheim.com
Retail
Our clinic specializes in play, art and sand tray therapy to address the psychosocial, emotional and behavioral difficulties that young children, adolescents and families experience at various stages of life.
Senior Center Kronkosky Place
17 Old San Antonio Road P.O. Box 1039 Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 249-2114 teresa@rainbowseniorcenter.com www.rainbowseniorcenter.com
Signs & Banners
Home Sweet Home Boerne Property Management
233 C South Main Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 388-9044 boernecoins@yahoo.com www.boernecoins.com
Satellite / New Home Pre-Wire / HDTV
Sign Language
610 7th Street P.O. Box 821 Comfort, TX 78013 (830) 995-5848.......................... fax (830) 995-5849 vwarnell@yahoo.com
Specializing in custom signs; graphic and logo design; banners; magnetic signs; vehicle graphics; vinyl design for windows; brochure, announcement and invitation layouts; business cards; full-color printing for banners and signs; decals; etc.
Thrift Store
RE/MAX Associates Boerne - Realtors
309 Water Street Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 816-2660.......................... fax (830) 816-2649 debbiebacosta@remax.net www.todaysboerne.com
Boerne Thrift, Inc.
1018 N. Main Street P.O. Box 1546 Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 331-2272 boernethrift@gmail.com
RE/MAX Associates was established in Boerne 19 years ago and has been a top-producing office ever since. Our Real Estate agents have unparalleled experience and devotion to servicing your needs.
We have the most variety you will ever find at a thrift store. We are the official donation center for the Boerne Volunteer Fire Department. Pick up available.
Ultimate Home Theater, LLC
710 E. Blanco Road Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 249-9444.......................... fax (830) 249-0404 ultimate@gvtc.com
Travel Agency
New Home Pre-Wires, Control4, Surround Sounds, HD-TVs DISH Network, DIRECTV, Sony, Sharp, Samsung, and Yamaha
Don Smith Company Realtors
8000 Fair Oaks Parkway, Suite 108 Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015 (210) 698-2440 (877) 829-7495.......................... fax (210) 698-0289 dscfor@gvtc.com www.fairoaksranchland.com
Home and land sales in the Hill Country for over 50 years. We are located on IH-10 West between San Antonio and Boerne. Homes and lots in Fair Oaks Ranch Texas.
Schools Geneva School of Boerne
113 Cascade Caverns Boerne, TX 78015 (830) 755-6101.......................... fax (830) 755-6102 gyoung@genevaschooltx.org www.genevaschooltx.org
Sea Blue Cruise and Travel
110 Woodland Ranch Road Boerne, TX 78015 (210) 332-3444.......................... fax (830) 336-2908 www.SeaBlueCruiseandTravel.com
Sea Blue Cruise and Travel/Cruise Planners is a full-service leisure travel agency. We specialize in group travel, destination weddings, honeymoons, corporate incentive travel and events at sea.
Truck Leasing Restaurants TMI-The Episcopal School of Texas 20955 W. Tejas Trail San Antonio, TX 78257 (210) 698-7171 admission@tmi-sa.org www.tmi-sa.org
Cheesy Jane’s
215 W. Bandera Boerne, TX (830) 248-1000 cjboerne@gvtc.com www.cheesyjanes.com
Big Burgers, Big Malts. Casual fun that’s really YUM!
El Rio Mexican Restaurant
1361 S. Main Street, Suite 601 Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 249-9846.......................... fax (830) 249-9668
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921 N. Main Street Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 249-2141.......................... fax (830) 249-6225 boernevet@gvtc.com
Boerne Coins & Collectibles
We are a family-owned local business with over 40 years’ experience in United States and foreign coinage and currency. We buy coins, gold, silver, guns, anything interesting.
Real Estate Developers
Boerne Veterinary Clinic
Steve Rapp, D.V.M. Medicine, surgery and dental for canines, felines, birds and exotics.
Real Estate 215 W. Bandera Road, Suite 114, PMB 495 Boerne, TX 78006 (210) 535-1355.......................... fax (210) 547-7903 ed@homesweethomeboerne.com
Veterinarians =
Founded in 1893, TMI is a private, co-educational, college-preparatory school for grades 6–12, with optional Junior ROTC and boarding programs. TMI educates well-rounded students with a focus on academic excellence, spiritual maturity and moral integrity.
Security Systems Builder Security Group, Inc.
12702 Cimarron Path San Antonio, TX 78249 (210) 877-1222 fax (210) 877-1223
Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce
On The Move, Inc.
28825 IH10 West Boerne, TX (830) 755-2474.......................... fax (830) 755-2480 cj@onthemovetrucks.com www.onthemovetrucks.com
We strive to deliver the highest-quality used automobiles on the market. Hand-selected and inspected before they ever see our lot. We’ll help you find a vehicle that fits your needs and that you can rely on.
Cibolo Creek Veterinary Hospital
150 Herff Ranch Boulevard Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 816-5123.......................... fax (877) 249-6994 jennifer@cibolocreekvethospital.com http://cibolocreekvethospital.com
At Cibolo Creek our mission is to provide you and your pet the latest in veterinary medical technology in a compassionate, comfortable, family-oriented setting. We are located on the east side of Boerne off 46 behind the Valero.
Water Well Service H. W. Schwope & Sons
P.O. Box 364 Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 249-2948.......................... fax (830) 249-0548 schwope@gvtc.com