Images Boerne, TX: 2010

2010 | IMAGESBOERNE.COM ®

Click the top corners of the magazine to turn pages

BOERNE, TEXAS

OLD-WORLD CUISINE Authentic dishes delight the palate

HERE’S WHERE ARTISTS THRIVE

More Than An Act Community theater group keeps spotlight on performing arts

What’s Online ine ne Stroll through historic downtown Boerne

SPONSORED BY THE GREATER BOERNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

5

th anniversary issue

2010 EDITION | VOLUME 5 ®

BOERNE, TEXAS

26 CO NTE NT S

BOERNE BUSINESS

F E AT U R E S

26 Higher Education Expands in the Hill Country

8 HERE’S WHERE ARTISTS THRIVE The arts help define Boerne’s personality.

12 NATURAL TREASURES Local nature centers and parks preserve rich, native heritage.

16 OLD-WORLD CUISINE Boerne restaurants prepare authentic recipes that delight the palate.

Learning opportunities close to home.

30 Biz Briefs 32 Chamber Report 33 Economic Profile

D E PA R TM E NT S 6 Almanac: a colorful sampling of Boerne’s culture

40 MORE THAN AN ACT Live theater is a community affair.

20 Portfolio: people, places and events that define Boerne

34 Image Gallery

42 HISTORY-MAKING HIGH SCHOOLS Schools begin new chapter in learning.

39 Health & Wellness 41 Sports & Recreation 44 Community Profile: facts, stats and important numbers to know

All or part of this magazine is printed with soy ink on recycled paper containing 10% post-consumer waste.

ON THE COVER Main Plaza Gazebo Photo by J. Kyle Keener

BOERNE

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

1

imagesboerne.com COMPLETE HOME LOAN PROGRAMS

THE DEFINITIVE RELOCATION RESOURCE

What’s Onl Online n

JPC Financial Resources “The Mortgage Professionals”

Lynn Pendley Texas Broker License# 63313

“You Deserve the Best”

PICTURE PERFECT UÊ*ÕÀV >Ãi UÊ iÜÊ ÃÌÀÕVÌ

We’ve added even more of our prize-winning photography to the online gallery. To see these photos, click on Photo Gallery.

UÊ,iw > Vi

RELOCATION

UÊ ÌÉ > `Ê > Ã

Considering a move to this community? We can help. Use our Relocation Tools to discover tips, including how to make your move green, advice about moving pets and help with booking movers.

UÊ >À Ê> `Ê,> V Offering the very best ÊÀi> ÊiÃÌ>ÌiÊw > V } ,ià `i Ì > ÊEÊ iÀV >

VIDEOS Check out our Web site!

www.jpcfinancial.com £ÓÊ-°Ê > Ê-Ì°ÊUÊ iÀ i]Ê/8Ê

(830) 816-2721

In our Interactive section, watch quick videos by our editors and photographers featuring people, places and events.

FACTS & STATS We act as our customer’s advocate, walking them step-by-step through the mortgage process and helping untangle any snags along the way. Most importantly, we “humanize” the process, personalized and professional in every way. A rare find in today’s maze of impersonal technology.

2

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

Go online to learn even more about: • Schools • Health care • Utilities • Parks • Taxes

LOCAL FLAVOR From the simple to the sublime, the delicious offerings here are guaranteed to satisfy every appetite.

ABOUT THIS MAGAZINE Images gives readers a taste of what makes Boerne tick – from business and education to sports, health care and the arts.

“Find the good – and praise it.”

– Alex Haley (1921-1992), Journal Communications co-founder

BOERNE

®

BOERNE , TEX AS MANAGING EDITOR KIM MADLOM COPY EDITOR JOYCE CARUTHERS ASSOCIATE EDITORS LISA BATTLES, SUSAN CHAPPELL, JESSY YANCEY

Now Showing in Our Video Gallery

STAFF WRITERS CAROL COWAN, KEVIN LITWIN CONTRIBUTING WRITERS SUZANNE B. BOPP, SHARON H. FITZGERALD, KELLY KOEPKE, AMY STUMPFL, BETSY WILLIAMS DATA MANAGER CHANDRA BRADSHAW REGIONAL SALES MANAGER CHARLES FITZGIBBON INTEGRATED MEDIA MANAGER BRIAN SUTTON SALES SUPPORT MANAGER CINDY HALL SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER BRIAN McCORD STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS JEFF ADKINS, TODD BENNETT, ANTONY BOSHIER, J. KYLE KEENER PHOTOGRAPHY PROJECT MANAGER ANNE WHITLOW CREATIVE DIRECTOR KEITH HARRIS ASSOCIATE PRODUCTION DIRECTOR CHRISTINA CARDEN PRODUCTION PROJECT MANAGERS MELISSA BRACEWELL, KATIE MIDDENDORF, JILL WYATT SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS LAURA GALLAGHER, KRIS SEXTON, CANDICE SWEET, VIKKI WILLIAMS LEAD DESIGNER ERICA HINES GRAPHIC DESIGN ALISON HUNTER, JESSICA MANNER, JANINE MARYLAND, MARCUS SNYDER WEB IMPLEMENTATION DIRECTOR ANDY HARTLEY WEB DESIGN DIRECTOR FRANCO SCARAMUZZA WEB CONTENT MANAGER JOHN HOOD WEB PROJECT MANAGER YAMEL RUIZ WEB DESIGN CARL SCHULZ WEB PRODUCTION JENNIFER GRAVES COLOR IMAGING TECHNICIAN TWILA ALLEN AD TRAFFIC MARCIA MILLAR, PATRICIA MOISAN, RAVEN PETTY

CHAIRMAN GREG THURMAN PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER BOB SCHWARTZMAN EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT RAY LANGEN SR. V.P./CLIENT DEVELOPMENT JEFF HEEFNER SR. V.P./SALES CARLA H. THURMAN SR. V.P./OPERATIONS CASEY E. HESTER V.P./SALES HERB HARPER V.P./SALES TODD POTTER V.P./VISUAL CONTENT MARK FORESTER V.P./EDITORIAL DIRECTOR TEREE CARUTHERS V.P./CUSTOM PUBLISHING KIM NEWSOM MANAGING EDITOR/BUSINESS BILL McMEEKIN PRODUCTION DIRECTOR NATASHA LORENS PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR JEFFREY S. OTTO CONTROLLER CHRIS DUDLEY ACCOUNTING MORIAH DOMBY, DIANA GUZMAN, MARIA McFARLAND, LISA OWENS RECRUITING/TRAINING DIRECTOR SUZY SIMPSON DISTRIBUTION DIRECTOR GARY SMITH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR YANCEY TURTURICE IT SERVICE TECHNICIAN RYAN SWEENEY HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER PEGGY BLAKE SALES SUPPORT RACHAEL GOLDSBERRY SALES/MARKETING COORDINATOR RACHEL MATHEIS EXECUTIVE SECRETARY/SALES SUPPORT KRISTY DUNCAN OFFICE MANAGER SHELLY GRISSOM RECEPTIONIST LINDA BISHOP

CU S TO M M AG A Z INE M ED I A

Images Boerne is published annually by Journal Communications Inc. and is distributed through the Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce and its member businesses.

For advertising information or to direct questions or comments about the magazine, contact Journal Communications Inc. at (615) 771-0080 or by e-mail at info@jnlcom.com.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce 126 Rosewood Avenue • Boerne, TX 78006 Phone: (830) 249-8000 • Fax: (830) 249-9639 www.boerne.org VISIT IMAGES BOERNE ONLINE AT IMAGESBOERNE.COM ©Copyright 2009 Journal Communications Inc., 725 Cool Springs Blvd., Suite 400, Franklin, TN 37067, (615) 771-0080. All rights reserved.

No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without written consent.

Member

Magazine Publishers of America

Member

Sit back and enjoy a preview of Boerne amenities.

Explore its landscapes, cultural offerings, food and fun.

See its downtown, neighborhoods, parks and attractions.

Experience the history, hot spots and local happenings.

Boerne is rated L for Livability

imagesboerne.com

Custom Publishing Council

Member Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce

BOERNE

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

3

Turn the pages of our

Digital Magazine j 7;/53A0=3@<3 1=; Â&#x2022;

0=3@<3 B3F/A

=:2 E=@:2 1C7A7<3 /cbVS\bWQ RWaVSa RSZWUVb bVS ^OZObS

63@3¸A E63@3 /@B7ABA B6@7D3

;]`S BVO\ /\ /Qb 1][[c\Wbg bVSObS` U`]c^ YSS^a a^]bZWUVb ]\ ^S`T]`[W\U O`ba

EVOb¸a =\ZW\S W\S \S \S Ab`]ZZ bV`]cUV VWab]`WQ R]e\b]e\ 0]S`\S

A>=<A=@32 0G B63 5@3/B3@ 0=3@<3 16/;03@ =4 1=;;3@13

LIVE LINKS Hot links allow users to quickly link to other sites for additional information, and an ad index allows you to easily locate local advertisers in the magazine.

SEARCH AND YOU SHALL FIND An easy-to-use search function allows you to ďŹ nd speciďŹ c articles or browse content by subject.

A DIGITAL TOOLBELT Tools allow you to customize the look and function of the magazine on your desktop as well as print individual pages or save the magazine for ofďŹ&#x201A;ine reading.

MORE OF THE SAME And thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good thing.

Inside, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll ďŹ nd the same award-winning photography and compelling content as in the printed magazine.

SHARE WITH A FRIEND E-mail individual stories using the pop-up text window.

imagesboerne.com

BOERNE

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

5

History Preserved Considered the gem of the Texas Hill Country, the Kendall County Courthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a Texas Historic Landmark.

The Gothic Romanesque building was a work in progress for 30 years. The original structure was built in 1870. The second floor was added in 1886, and the façade was added in 1910.

In 1998, Kendall County opened its new courthouse, built of limestone, steel and concrete. The new facility is just across the street from the original structure.

A Fair To Remember Ride ’em Cowboy!

Rodeo is an exciting part of the Kendall County Fair, held each Labor Day weekend at the fairgrounds. The fair also includes a livestock show, arts and crafts booths, apple pie baking contest, a carnival and live music.

The fair itself is a historic icon in the Hill Country.

Established in 1905, the fair began as an opportunity for citizens to share agricultural information, recipes and news. For more than 100 years, the fair has been held on property donated by the Von Herff family.

Care To Dance?

Ever hear the Borsicka-Polka? Boerne residents have.

The Boerne Village Band is the oldest continuously organized German band outside of Germany. When Germans migrated to Boerne during the mid-1800s‚ they brought their love of music with them.

They also brought their musical skills and wasted little time re-creating the sounds of their home country. And so began the Boerne Village Band, established in 1860.

Over the years the band has performed throughout Texas and across the country. In 1988, the band played concerts in Germany.

Boerne continues to celebrate its German heritage with the annual Berges Fest each June and Abendkonzerte, a summer concert series performed by the Boerne Village Band.

Taste Temptations Every town needs a good central gathering spot.

For Boerne’s residents and visitors‚ The Daily Grind/ Boerne Grill on South Main Street is that spot.

Gourmet coffee‚ homemade ice cream‚ quality wine selection and tasty food keep customers coming back for more.

The Daily Grind‚ in existence since 1995‚ expanded in July 2005 to include the Boerne Grill. Favorite items include the breakfast omelets‚ the turkey bacon melts and Reubens‚ and the unique salads.

6

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

BOERNE

Almanac

The Dickens, You Say?

Fast Facts

PHOTO COURTESY OF RONNIE HATCHER

If you’re a fan of the Victorian Era‚ downtown Boerne has a treat for you each November.

Held annually on the Friday and Saturday after Thanksgiving‚ the Dickens on Main celebration sees the town don Victorian garb to celebrate the holiday season and to explore Boerne by lamplight. Residents and visitors alike can enjoy horse-drawn carriages‚ music and drama events‚ and of course participate in the ever-popular Wassail Competition‚ where spicy spirits are downed in good fellowship and cheer. The Dickens‚ indeed!

A Trip to the Market Items such as antiques, arts and crafts, clothing, pottery, jewelry, Texas souvenirs and gourmet food products are for sale at Boerne Market Days.

Numerous vendors from all over Texas sell their wares on the second weekend of every month at the Gazebo in Main Plaza.

Unusual items are in abundance, and several concession food stands are also set up.

LOCATION Boerne is in south-central Texas, 25 miles northwest of San Antonio on Interstate 10. Boerne is the county seat of Kendall County.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce 126 Rosewood Ave. P.O. Box 2328 Boerne, TX 78006 Phone: (830) 249-8000 Fax: (830) 249-9639 www.boerne.org

to

Ke r

g urrg to Fredericksbu

Boerne

BEGINNINGS In 1852, German colonists laid out the town’s site and named it Boerne in honor of Ludwig Börne, a German poet and publicist.

rv

ille

87

Q Kendall County is named for George Kendall, a journalist and pioneer sheep breeder who lived from 1809-1867. He helped launch the New Orleans Picayune newspaper in 1837, which is still in circulation today as the Times-Picayune.

Q The Boerne Independent School District has been in existence since 1907.

Boerne At A Glance POPULATION Boerne: 11,145 Kendall County: 32,886

Q Signs of Boerne’s German heritage abound, beginning with the street signs proclaiming dual citizenship for the main downtown thoroughfare. Call it Main Street or call it Hauptstrasse – it still remains the center of activity.

1888 1376

Q A rare 16th-century Low German Bible is on display at the Boerne Public Library.

Q One of Kendall County’s most popular attractions remains nameless.

Cave Without a Name is a cavern that opened to the public in 1939.

KENDALL 473 473

27

Comfort p dalu e R ive Gua

10 474

What’s Online e

n Sa

8 281

io

n to

An

BOERNE

46

to

Take a virtual tour of Boerne, courtesy of our award-winning photographers, at imagesboerne.com.

Boerne

r

3351

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

7

Artists

Thrive Here

THE ARTS ARE PART OF BOERNE’S PERSONALITY

STORY BY KELLY KOEPKE PHOTOGRAPHY BY J. KYLE KEENER

N

icknamed “Key to the Hills,” the town of Boerne should really be named “Key to the Arts.”

No matter the time of year, Boerne unlocks a new way for residents and visitors to explore, enjoy and celebrate the arts in all its forms.

Pamela Gardner, president of Boerne Professional Artists, or BPA, says that the community is growing in every aspect, including the arts.

“As an artist, I see the culture, architecture, and historical look and feel of Boerne being very inviting to creative people,” Gardner says. “And artists are all supportive of each other, wanting to see each other be successful. In fact, Boerne has been called Little Santa Fe because of its very diverse styles in all sorts of media. From sculpture to oils and watercolor, Right: Artist Pamela Gardner shows her work at the Carriage House Gallery of Fine Arts.

8

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

BOERNE

BOERNE

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

9

glass to jewelry, Boerne’s artists represent a very broad and amazing mix for a town this small.”

Every month, Second Saturday Arts & Wine openings find Boerne’s dozens of local galleries throwing wide their doors to strolling or trolley-shuttled patrons for exhibits, sponsored by the Majestic Ranch Arts Foundation. This nonprofit provides art studios and classes on everything from ceramics to woodworking, fiber arts and sculpture to anyone of any skill level. BPA’s spring and fall events highlight the vibrancy and depth of talent the town fosters. In October, the Hill Country Invitational Art Show and Sale gathers artists for three days of art emersion. The April Parade of Artists features a self-guided tour of local galleries, studios and “other walls,” venues like restaurants that provide exhibition space for artists. The event also includes the Taste of Boerne, for which eateries partner with galleries for exceptional food and an art preview.

May’s the time for Art in the Park, a day of demonstrations, music, theater, dance, storytelling and more at the Cibolo Nature Center, a 100-acre green space that’s part of Boerne City Park. This partnership with the Cibolo Arts Council

enjoys the collaboration of the artists of BPA, the Boerne Art League, and other arts and cultural groups. And when summer arrives, Boerne’s kids flock to the Center’s Art Camp to explore their creativity in the outdoor setting. In September 2010, a new film festival will herald in the fall.

Boerne’s rich, culture-friendly environment caught the attention of Mark Richter, founder and artistic director of the San Antonio Opera. The Opera has captured an eager audience in Boerne and recently extended its educational program, Opera for Kids, to Boerne’s elementary and middle schools. There, professional opera singers perform comic operas in English and then discuss themes and music with the children.

“Boerne is a great, growing community that’s close by, and I have several friends there,” Richter says. “We’ve seen a great response to our newly formed Hill Country Opera League, which hosts singer demonstrations and events in Boerne, making opera accessible to the area. We’ll also be providing alternatives to driving into San Antonio for performances.”

Gardner sums Boerne’s scene up beautifully. “When you see so much going on, it’s just plain exciting.”

Above: Artist Pamela Gardner finishes her painting Dancing til Midnight. Right: Sculptor Phil Simpson’s Camp Fire

10

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

BOERNE

BOERNE

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

11

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s s e Online

Experience the beauty of the Cibolo Nature Center in our quick online video at imagesboerne.com.

12

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

BOERNE

Natural

Treasures LOCAL NATURE CENTERS PRESERVE RICH, NATIVE HERITAGE

Guadalupe River State Park

BOERNE

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

13

14

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

BOERNE

STORY BY AMY STUMPFL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY J. KYLE KEENER

T

ake a look around Boerne, and it’s easy to see why so many outdoor enthusiasts flock to the area. Whether you’re interested in hiking, caving, fishing, or simply enjoy exploring the native flora and fauna, this scenic community is widely known for its unique recreational resources.

But along with preserving the rustic beauty of Texas Hill Country, local environmentalists are committed to educating residents and instilling good stewardship of the land.

The Cibolo Nature Center offers a prime example.

Established in 1990, the Cibolo Nature Center boasts four distinct ecosystems within its 100 acres – including a riparian forest, a live oak savannah, a tall-grass prairie and a spring-fed marsh.

Nearly 100,000 people visit the center each year, enjoying a wide range of educational activities and programs.

“We have a wonderful outdoor classroom, as well as a summer camp for children,” says Doris Perez, director of operations and human resources for Cibolo Nature Center.

“And once a month, we offer Kid’s Club, which is a great opportunity for families to get out and explore the trails and creek – and just enjoy being outdoors.”

Along with children’s activities, the center offers an impressive line-up of adult programs, covering many important and timely conservation issues.

“Our Living in the Hill Country series is particularly helpful for those who have relocated from other parts of the country,” she says. “These classes cover everything from native plants and wildlife management to how to put together

a backyard habitat for birds or butterflies. One of the most popular classes we offer right now is our rainwater harvest seminar. Because of this summer’s drought, a lot of people are interested in utilizing a rain catchment system.”

Situated just east of Boerne along the border of Kendall and Comal counties, Guadalupe River State Park also is committed to preserving its natural heritage while educating visitors and residents alike. The park features four miles of river frontage, providing ample opportunity for activities such as fishing, canoeing, swimming and tubing. The park also includes 94 campsites, hiking and biking trails, as well as a popular equestrian trail.

“People are often surprised by how lush this area of the state can be – it’s really quite beautiful with its huge bald cypress trees and limestone cliffs,” says Bill Beach, assistant office manager for the park. “They have this stereotypical idea of Texas being all desert, so the river is a popular attraction.”

Beach says that the park offers a full range of nature programs, covering everything from astronomy to native wildlife. And on Saturday mornings, visitors can take part in a two-hour guided interpretive tour of the adjacent Honey Creek State Natural Area.

“We also have a new interpretive center which features hands-on exhibits geared toward children,” he adds.

“These interpretive programs play an important part, not only in preserving wild Texas, but also in educating future generations.”

Boerne is rich in natural beauty.

BOERNE

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

15

16

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

BOERNE

Old-World

Cuisine BOERNE RESTAURANTS USE AUTHENTIC RECIPES THAT DELIGHT THE PALATE STORY BY BETSY WILLIAMS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY J. KYLE KEENER

W

hen Denise Mazal and daughter Veronica opened Little Gretel on River Road last February, she dug out recipes her Czech mother developed more than 60 years ago.

“The recipes come from my family,” Denise says. “We were in the restaurant business before in Boulder, so all of our recipes have been tested pretty well. I grew up in the restaurant business with my mother, who was a chef for 60 years in Prague. Cooking is absolutely natural to me.”

Everything, she stresses, is made from scratch, whether it’s the sauerkraut – taking up to 72 hours to prepare – the spatzle (German pasta) or the bonemarrow soups.

A specialty of this German house is schnitzel, and the chef prepares it with veal at dinner and pork at lunch. “It’s done the old German way,” Denise says, seasoned and dipped in flour, egg and Viennese bread crumbs. Rather than frying, however, Denise bakes it in the oven, which gives it a clean taste. “It’s nice and crispy but much healthier

BOERNE

because we don’t use deep fryers,” Denise says.

The schnitzel is then sauced one of four ways. Vienna Schnitzel is topped with lemon. The Jaeger Schnitzel, which is the restaurant’s most popular, is

served with mushrooms sautéed in bacon fat and onion, then topped with the chef’s own demi-glace, which takes three days to make.

Rahma Schnitzel is covered with a creamy white sauce, lemon and capers,

Little Gretel owner Denise Mazal, center, prepares many of her family’s Czek recipes along with Chef Jonathan Jacob, right. Mazal’s daughter, Veronica, left, manages the restaurant. Left: Stuffed pork chop with red cabbage

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

17

The Tin Roof Steakhouse features an extensive bar and offers live entertainment.

18

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

BOERNE

while Holstein Schnitzel is served with eggs, capers and anchovies.

“You have to finish up your schnitzel with a nice apple strudel,” Denise says.

“We sell hundreds of them.” Oh, and don’t forget the beer, which is offered on tap and in bottles.

For an American turn with an Italian flair, steak is what’s for dinner, and it’s served up in style at the Tin Roof Steakhouse.

Owners Kenny and Renee McGonigle returned to Renee’s Boerne roots after

Kenny grew weary of the New York rat race.

Since opening in June 2008, the restaurant has become a regional favorite, serving up a variety of flame-broiled Black Angus rib-eyes, including the Tokyo, which features a teriyaki-citrus blend and a hint of spice, the peppery (but not hot) Hill Country and the spicy Louisiana.

The prime rib – served seven days a week – is encrusted with a variety of secret spices and slow-roasted so that

the flavors seep into the meat. The margarita beef kabob appetizer is marinated in a tequila-based sauce and grilled for a unique twist on the traditional beef kabob.

Kenny’s pasta dishes are a tribute to his New York days. “Our marinara is the best, it’s authentic,” he says.

“There are no preservatives. And you don’t serve the sauce the day you make it. You make the sauce on Monday to serve it on Tuesday. It thickens and the flavors blend.”

It’s all washed down with Tin Roof Sangria, the recipe for which came from a Moroccan friend of Kenny’s. The apples, lemons and limes are steeped with the liquors for at least 24 hours, and then orange juice and wine are added.

Service is casual at the Tin Roof Steakhouse. “We want to cater to people who want a really great steak but who don’t want to dress in a suit,” Kenny says.

Top: A fillet mignon served with grilled asparagus at The Tin Roof Steakhouse Below: Diners enjoy a relaxed breakfast at Little Gretel.

BOERNE

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

19

Portfolio

Ludwig Would Approve BOERNE CONTINUES TO CELEBRATE ITS GERMAN HERITAGE

I

t’s not Berlin or Hamburg or Munich, but there certainly are some similarities.

The city of Boerne is named for Ludwig Börne, who inspired many young men to leave Germany in the 1840s to travel to the new world of America. By 1849, hundreds of German immigrants had happily said “guten tag” to the Texas Hill Country as several settled in Boerne, and the community’s language remained almost solely German until the mid 1900s.

Today, more than 160 years after the initial migration, a distinct German tradition remains. Part of that tradition is especially alive in music with the Boerne Village Band, which is the oldest continuously organized German band in the world outside of Germany. The band is regionally known for staging an annual Abendkonzerte evening concert series in Boerne during the spring and summer months, performing song selections such as Heimwehmelodie or Borsicka-Polka.

Boerne is also home to an annual Berges Fest held every Father’s Day weekend. Berges Fest princesses and duchesses dressed in traditional German costumes are crowned at the festival, which features a parade and plenty of German oom-pah music.

Boerne is host to the Turn Verein (bowling) and the Schuetzen Verein (shooting) organizations, which are two of the city’s most historic recreational clubs. In fact, Schuetzen Verein was started by the early German settlers in 1864 as a way to relax after a hard week, and it now has the distinction of being the oldest shooting club in the United States.

Members stand on stair-stepped wooden ramps and shoot at targets 100 yards away, and the organization is still going strong today.

20

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

Contestants seek to be crowned Miss Berges Fest.

BOERNE

ook it: Boerne Public Library is said to be haunted.

According to local legend, some people feel the presence of a ghost when they enter the North Main Street building, and witnesses have reported seeing lights in the building going on and off late at night.

Many say the ghost of Joseph Dienger is haunting the building. Dienger owned it in the late 1800s when it was a grocery store – with the Dienger family’s quarters situated upstairs. Dienger was known to be a heavy drinker who acted up, so believers think it is Dienger himself who makes noises in the library at various times.

However, some folks maintain that the voices and sounds are from a woman – probably Dienger’s wife.

They suggest she laments his drinking.

The building has had other uses throughout its long existence, and the Boerne Public Library occupied the facility in 1991. The long-standing structure is listed on the National Register of Historical Places.

As for verifying the ghosts, a group called Everyday Paranormal came to the library a few years ago to determine if any paranormal activities existed in the building.

Officials did indeed find evidence of a man’s voice as well as haunting banjo music, and the group awarded the building with an official Certificate of Everyday Paranormal Activity.

Besides the ghosts, there are also rumors of underground tunnels connecting the library to Ye Kendall Inn in Boerne. The inn is also on the National Register of Historic Places and has become legendary for supernatural activity. Guests at the inn have reported seeing doors occasionally swing open and slam shut – with no humans in the vicinity.

PHOTOS BY J. KYLE KEENER

A Favorite Haunt B

KENDALL COUNTY ABSTRACT COMPANY Serving our friends and neighbors in the Texas Hill Country since 1916.

Over our 94 years of serving the Hill Country, we’ve earned the trust of real estate professionals because …

UÊ7i½ÀiÊiÝ«iÀ i Vi`° ÊÊÊUÊ7i½ÀiÊ«À viÃà > ° ÊÊÊÊÊÊUÊ7i½ÀiÊV>À }°

Mike Lang "7 ,

103 N. Saunders St. Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 816.2131 tel (830) 249.3341 fax

It is said that the second floor of the historic Boerne City Library, located at 210 N. Main Street, is haunted.

BOERNE

Visit us online at: www.kcac.net

Ashlee Pfeiffer – Manager

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

21

Portfolio

66 Degrees, No Matter the Weather W name. He received a $250 cash prize for his clever effort, and the cave has kept its unusual title ever since.

Visitors can tour six major underground rooms thanks to easy walkways and bright lighting, and natural formations that tourists can view include stalactites‚ stalagmites and stone dams. The cave’s temperature remains at 66 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year, and the entrance stairwell into the attraction has 126

steps that descend to 90 feet below the surface.

The National Park Service declared Cave Without a Name a National Natural Landmark in February 2009.

Meanwhile, the highlight of Cascade Caverns is a 100-foot waterfall that serves as the grand finale of a 45-minute guided tour. The Caverns have been a popular attraction since 1932, although men and animals have been using and exploring the cavern for centuries. One of the earliest visitors was a mastodon whose bones remain in the cavern today.

Cascade Caverns is a half-mile long and 140 feet deep with unusual rock shapes that have names such as Giant Turtle, The Skull, George Washington and The Dinosaur. It is still an active cave with millions of glistening drops of water decorating the ceiling, and those drops wait for unwitting guests to walk underneath and be surprised by a “cave kiss.”

Both Cave Without a Name and Cascade Caverns welcome tens of thousands of tourists each year.

STAFF PHOTOS

hat is the difference between a stalactite and a stalagmite?

You’ll find out the answer during a visit to a couple of interesting attractions in the Boerne area. Cave Without a Name and Cascade Caverns are two spots that are bound to get the attention of anyone who is curious or adventurous.

Cave Without a Name was given its unusual moniker thanks to a contest in 1940 when a young boy suggested that the cave was too beautiful to have a

Cave Without a Name is filled with huge stalactites and stalagmites.

22

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

BOERNE

A Lake Retreat F

irst it was the lake, and then came the scenic park.

Because of flooding concerns, construction of the man-made Boerne City Lake was completed in 1979. Then, a park that is one of the most scenic spots in the entire Texas Hill Country was constructed around the lake. City Lake Park became a reality thanks to the Boerne City Council, which approved its development in September 2005.

The 50-acre park has undergone a number of additions in its short history.

It now features improved roadways as well as ample parking options and a new boat dock. There is also a security booth at the front entrance to control access into the park.

A cluster of trails has also been installed for those who like to hikeâ&#x20AC;&#x161; bikeâ&#x20AC;&#x161; walk and jog. In addition, a volleyball court and new playground are now in place, while a butterfly garden and bird observation blind are also on site for nature enthusiasts.

Another added amenity is a 9-hole disc golf course and additional picnic units and grills â&#x20AC;&#x201C; including one grill area that is handicap accessible. Park officials are quick to say that something is happening at City Lake Park virtually every weekend of the year.

An annual event at the park is Adventure Fest, which exposes people to outdoor sports and activities. The June weekend celebration includes recreation opportunities such as horseback ridingâ&#x20AC;&#x161; canoeing and kayakingâ&#x20AC;&#x161; paddleboat ridesâ&#x20AC;&#x161; archeryâ&#x20AC;&#x161; power parachuting and an adult-andchild fishing tournament.

Fishing on Boerne City Lake is encouraged off the shore banks as well as from rowboats or atop a recently constructed pier. One of the most significant rules of the lake is that no motorized boats are allowed in order to protect the water.

OFFERING BOERNEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NEWEST TRAVEL EXPERIENCE

Facilities and Services

Guest Room Amenities

s /UTDOOR POOL AND WHIRLPOOL

s SPACIOUS ROOMS INCLUDING SUITES

s #OMPLIMENTARY WIRELESS WIRED )NTERNET

s +ING OR DOUBLE QUEEN ROOMS

s &REE LOCAL CALLS s 3AME DAY DRY CLEANING

s v ,#$ 46S WITH ("/ %30.

AND %30.

s #OMPLIMENTARY BREAKFAST FEATURING *IMMY $EAN BREAKFAST SANDWICHES

s )N ROOM COFFEE MAKER IRON AND IRONING BOARD

s

s 3UITES FEATURING SEPARATE LIVING ROOM WITH SOFA BED MICROWAVE AND MINI FRIDGE

HOUR SERVICES INCLUDING n "USINESS CENTER n &ITNESS CENTER n &AX AND COPY SERVICES

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Boerne Fairfield Inn & Suites

by Marriott â&#x20AC;&#x201C; because you want a clean, comfortable and confident travel experience in a place where great customer service is the heart that drives us to exceed your expectations.â&#x20AC;?

s !$! ACCESSIBLE ROOMS AVAILABLE

6 Cascade Caverns Rd. Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 368-4167 Toll-Free: (800) 228-2800 Fax: (830) 368-4166 www.boernefairfieldinn.com www.fairfieldinnboernetx.com

Located minutes from San Antonio off I-10 West at Exit 543 (Cascade Caverns)

Boerne City Lake

BOERNE

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

23

"EFORE DRUGS ¨ "EFORE SURGERY ¨

%STABLISHED IN !CCEPTS -EDICARE AND !LL -AJOR )NSURANCE

WWW BOERNEPTI COM 7 "ANDERA 2D Â&#x201E; 3TE Â&#x201E; "OERNE

Messiah

Lutheran Church The Lutheran Church Missouri Synod Members of Messiah Lutheran Church would like to invite you to join us as we worship Christ.

Sunday Services: 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

Sunday School/ Adult Bible Study: 9:15 a.m.

9401 Dietz Elkhorn Boerne, TX 78015 (830) 755-4300 www.messiahboerne.org

24

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

BOERNE

Portfolio

Shooting Without Bullets esse James won’t be there, but someone who looks like him could possibly be in attendance.

Enchanted Springs Ranch is a Western movie set, animal park and tourism destination that Oprah Winfrey rated as one of the best Wacky Family Attractions for 2008. Part of the 86-acre working ranch has been constructed to look like a Western town right out of the late 1800s, with cowboy and cowgirl actors on site.

Owners Steve and Vicki Schmidt are not only Texas ranchers but also fans of the Old West, which is why they transformed part of their property into something right out of the 1880s.

More than 40 buildings are part of the elaborate Old West attraction at Enchanted Springs Ranch, which has already been used in several TV films, commercials and music videos.

Recent productions on the ranch include an Emmy-award-winning documentary called The Legend of Billy the Kid, plus a number of Chevrolet truck TV commercials starring country music legend and Texas native George Strait.

The slogan at Enchanted Springs Ranch is “Keeping the Old West Alive,” and the ranch has become the preferred Western movie set in Texas. The facility is close to a major airport as well as big city services and manpower, which makes it that much more attractive to filmmakers and movie producers.

In addition, the working ranch includes a herd of Texas longhorns, horses, buffalo, deer and a wide variety of exotic animals.

As for the name, early American Indians thought of this beautiful hilly region with its clear flowing spring-fed creeks and rivers as an enchanted place, thus the name Enchanted Springs Ranch.

– Stories by Kevin Litwin BOERNE

BRIAN McCORD

J

A zebra roams the fields at the Enchanted Springs Ranch.

Mercedes-Benz of Boerne Best of the Best 2006, 2007 a nd 2008 – three yea rs in a row ! Come see why we are

the new choice.

(830) 981-6000 31445 IH 10 W. Boerne, TX 78006 www.mbboerne.com

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

25

Business

Higher Education in the

Hill Country NEW OPPORTUNITIES CLOSE TO HOME

STORY BY SUZANNE B. BOPP

W

hen you look around the country at great cities, you always find a higher education institution involved, says Steve Mack, board chairman of the Kendall County Economic Development Corporation.

And now higher education is coming right to Boerne, thanks to Project Red Apple, a new alliance that will broaden educational opportunities in

Kendall County. That was, in fact, one of the original goals of Kendall County’s Economic Development Corporation when it was formed, Mack says.

“We wanted to enlist or recruit an institution of higher learning to Boerne or Kendall County, to offer courses to our residents without requiring them to drive to San Antonio.”

The EDC took that goal and worked to generate interest. Texas Tech University

Texas Tech is participating in Project Red Apple to improve higher education opportunities in Boerne. PHOTO BY BRIAN M CORD C

26

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

BOERNE

BOERNE

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

27

J. KYLE KEENER

Business

28

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

BOERNE

STAFF PHOTO

seemed one natural place to look.

Texas Tech had an interest in being in the Hill Country, and “there’s a big contingent of Texas Tech graduates here,” says Boerne Mayor Dan Heckler. So, contact was made and visits began back and forth: Texas Tech officials came to Boerne, and Boerne officials went to visit Texas Tech. Soon the deal was stuck.

The Alamo Colleges also seemed a good fit, especially as they are planning to start construction soon on a new campus on the Kendall/Bexar county line. “That’s how they’ll be involved, by providing classrooms and instructors at their new campus,” Heckler says.

Among the first offerings will be master’s degrees in nursing and education – two particular needs the EDC identified.

“The medical community in San Antonio is expanding rapidly.

They need nurses,” Mack says.

Working teachers interested in furthering their careers and moving into administration will be ideal candidates for the master’s degree in education.

For high school students, Project Red Apple will offer the chance to get a leg up on college credits. Boerne juniors and seniors will be able to enroll in classes on the high school campus that will earn both high school and college credit – up to 60 hours – which is enough for an associate’s degree by the time they graduate high school. They’ll need just two more years to earn a bachelor’s degree.

“We have a lot of smart kids here, and a lot of them go to school elsewhere. We

want them to be able to stay near home and get their education,” Heckler says.

Both schools will offer tuition assistance if students go on to earn degrees at the Texas Tech or Alamo Colleges systems.

Workforce training is yet another component of Project Red Apple. “We have a lot of service industry here and semiprofessional jobs but no way of training the workforce,” Heckler says.

“We’re working with local businesses to identify the core subjects people need to be considered for employment.

We want them to hire our workers.”

Project Red Apple’s first classes are scheduled to start at Texas Tech in January 2010. “I can’t wait for the first class to graduate,” Heckler says. “People will say, ‘Oh, I can do that too,’ and we’ll be flooded with students.”

From welding to nursing, workforce training is a goal of Project Red Apple. Left: Champion High School

BOERNE

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

29

Business

Biz Briefs BUSINESSES – BOTH LARGE AND SMALL – THAT HELP DEFINE BOERNE’S ECONOMIC CLIMATE

Scorecard BUSINESS AT A GLANCE

$443,921 Retail sales ($1,000)

$17,532 Retail sales per capita

$35,079 Accommodations and food service sales ($1,000)

3,947 Total number of firms Source: U.S. Census QuickFacts

FLYING CIRCLE BAGS Biz: bags for military, clubs, etc.

Buzz: Flying Circle Bags was born on a family ranch in Boerne and has become well known throughout the military and civilian community as a leading supplier of all kinds of soft luggage and accessories. The name Flying Circle comes from the company’s original ranch brand. What started in a cattle barn and has grown into a successful new endeavor. www.flyingcirclebags.com 30

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

THE TRUST CO. Biz: banking, financial services Buzz: With offices in San Antonio, Corpus Christi and Boerne, The Trust Co. has seen substantial and steady growth since its founding in 1997.

The firm provides a full array of personal and commercial banking services, investment and trust services, as well as planning and consulting services to families, businesses and institutions across south Texas. www.thetrustcompany.com BOERNE

MORNINGSIDE MINISTRIES Biz: assisted living, retirement, rehabilitation Buzz: Founded in 1961, Morningside Ministriesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; three distinct communities are home to more than 800 residents.

This faith-based, not-for-profit program provides a full range of housing and health services, including independent retirement living, assisted living, rehabilitation and nursing care. www.morningsidemin.org

BOERNE

ADONAI AVIATION INC. Biz: helicopter flight services Buzz: Aspiring helicopter pilots can fulfill their goals at Adonai Aviation.

Gerry Matheny was a U.S. Army helicopter pilot with experience that includes flying both the Huey and Cobra on missions in Korea, as well as training missions in the Army, National Guard and Army Reserves. Adonai also provides aerial photography services. www.adonaiaviation.com

SALON INFUSION Biz: hair and nail spa Buzz: A full complement of salon services awaits clients at Salon Infusion. Hair, nail, massage and bridal preparation are just a few of the services offered at the salon and day spa. Products and packages used at Salon Infusion are earth-friendly.

The mission is to help customers relax and unwind in a soothing atmosphere. www.saloninfusion.com

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

31

Business | Chamber Report

Forward-Thinking Pays Off CHAMBER’S FIRST LEGISLATIVE PLAN LOOKS TO THE FUTURE

32

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

most pressing transportation needs and present a united front when requesting funding. White says that’s been wellreceived by the Texas Department of Transportation.

The Legislative Plan encourages more business involvement in education at all levels and recommends more higher education options in the Hill Country.

“Those things are happening,” White says. Beginning with the fall 2010 semester, Texas Tech University will offer Kendall County high school students dual enrollment for some honors classes, meaning they may earn up 30 hours of college credit before they begin their college career, White says.

The chamber’s interest in education is well-known in the community.

Proceeds from its annual golf tournament and Heart of Boerne Awards and Auction Gala each January fund three $2,000 scholarships for college-bound Kendall County students. The chamber also sponsors a mentoring program that pairs local business people with high school students in vocational studies.

Chamber members enjoy a host of other activities, including a monthly Lunchbox Lesson and Networking Breakfast, as well as two Business After Hours mixers each month.

– Sharon H. Fitzgerald

PHOTO COURTESY OF WILL H. RAYBOURN, RAYBOURN PHOTOGRAPHY

A

t a reception in December 2008, the Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce gave the community a special Christmas gift – a 2009 Legislative Plan designed to ensure that Boerne recognizes its challenges and meets them cooperatively.

“For the first time ever, we unveiled a written Legislative Plan and presented it to all our representatives at the local, state and federal level. We’ve always worked on issues, but we’ve never put it in a formalized plan and presented it to the public,” explains Paula White, chamber president.

The plan is a project of the chamber’s Government Affairs Council and focuses on four areas: water and natural resources, reasonable housing costs, education and transportation.

The categories were determined by a survey of the chamber membership.

“What could our community look like as a model community? Instead of just taking the problems as they come, one by one, we decided to think a little bit further out,” White says.

For example, the Legislative Plan sets forth a preliminary strategy to help encourage salary-appropriate housing options for teachers, police officers and others in similar income brackets. White notes that Albany Engineered Composites is set to complete an expansion in the near future that will add 300 jobs.

“We want those employees to live and work in our community,” she says.

On the transportation issue, since state and federal funds remain tight for transportation projects, the chamber spearheaded formation of the Kendall County Transportation Alliance to collectively identify the community’s

Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce Staff, from left, Kerry Phillip, director of membership; Mary Sue Hurdt, director of special events; Ann Schafer, director of finance; Paula White, president and CEO; Bonnie Westley, administrative assistant; and Lynn Richter, director of communications.

BOERNE

Business | Economic Profile

BOERNE BUSINESS CLIMATE A straight shot on Interstate 10 from downtown San Antonio, Boerne offers residents both convenient access to the city and a quality of life that reflects its small-town heritage.

Boerne Stage Airfield 400 Boerne Stage Field Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 981-2345, ext. 10

TAXES

MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME

1.50% City Sales and Use Tax

GOVERNMENT OFFICES

Boerne, $42,329 Kendall County, $49,521

.50%

Texas, $39,927

County Sales Tax

City of Boerne 402 E. Blanco Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 249-9511 www.ci.boerne.tx.us

U.S., $41,994

6.25%

ECONOMIC RESOURCES

State Sales Tax

8.25% Total Sales Tax

TRANSPORTATION Transportation Link http://visitboerne.org San Antonio International Airport 9800 Airport Blvd.

San Antonio, TX 78216 (210) 207-3450 www.sanantonio.gov/aviation

Kendall County Government 201 E. San Antonio St. Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 249-9343 www.co.kendall.tx.us

Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce 126 Rosewood Ave. Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 249-8000 www.boerne.org

INDUSTRIAL SITES

Boerne Convention & Visitors Bureau 1407 S. Main St. Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 249-7277 (888) 842-8080 www.visitboerne.org

Industrial Sites Link www.kendallcountyedc.com/ available-properties

MORE EO ONLINE imagesboerne.com

MAJOR EMPLOYERS Boerne Independent School District

968

Boerne Walmart Supercenter

330

Mission Pharmacal

310

H.E.B. Grocery Store

240

Kendall County

202

Albany Engineered Composites

197

City of Boerne

193

The Home Depot

120

Town & Country Manor Nursing Home

100

Mercedes Benz of Boerne

BOERNE

Kendall County Economic Development Corp.

1221 S. Main Suite 100 Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 331-9070 www.kendallcountyedc.com

More facts, stats and community information, including relocation tools and links to resources.

87

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

33

Image Gallery

Old public library on N. Main Street

34

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

PHOTOGRAPHY BY J. KYLE KEENER

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Online e Visit imagesboerne.com to see more award-winning photography highlighting the places and people in Boerne.

Gazebo in Main Plaza Park

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

35

Health & Wellness

Alamo Maxillofacial Surgical Associates, PA is a full-scope oral and maxillofacial surgical practice.

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are dental specialists who treat conditions, defects, injuries, and aesthetic aspects of the mouth, teeth, jaws and face. Their training includes a four-year graduate degree in dentistry and the completion of a minimum four-year hospital surgical residency program. Our group consists of six Board-Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons at three full-time office locations.

134 Menger Springs Rd. Suite #1200 Boerne, Texas 78006 830-816-2480 Wendell A. Edgin, DDS

B.D. Tiner, DDS, MD

Steven B. Buckley, DDS, MD

www.alamoOMS.com

CANCER CARE CENTERS of South Texas

BOERNE Office Y. Gia Dice, MD J. Brant Ellis, MD

Medical Oncology/Hematology

Scott Kronenthal, MSN, RN, CS-FNP Out-patient Chemotherapy Laboratory Anticoagulation/Thrombosis Clinic Genetic Testing 124 E. Bandera Rd., Ste. 301 Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 249-1469 cccst-info@usoncology.com

www.cccst.com

BOERNE

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

37

The Premier Laser Center in the Texas Hill Country

McRae M.D. Medical Laser Spa After four years of treating satisfied laser patients â&#x20AC;&#x201C; we continue to provide the BEST! Cutera Titan | Laser Genesis Intense Pulsed Laser Hair Removal & Vein Removal Obagi | Microdermabrasion | Facials | and More!

The Latest and Leading in Laser Technology â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Pearl Fractional Treatment (the only one in the San Antonio Area)

.ANNI "AKER $ $ 3 s .ICOLE ,OUGHLIN $ $ 3

Zerona Laser Body Contouring â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Painless, Non-invasive

little smiles

BOTOX RADIESSE JUVEDERM

Dentistry for Children, P.A. 415 South School St. Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 249-9888 Fax (830) 249-7919

3 3AUNDERS s "OERNE 48

www.mcraemd.net Mention this ad and receive 10% off one purchase.

Committed to providing premier medical care to patients with treatment of diseases of the digestive system

www.littlesmilesdentistry.com

visit our

advertisers Alamo Maxillofacial Surgical Associates PA www.alamooms.com

Kendall County Abstract Company www.kcac.net

Boerne Banking Center www.boernebankingcenter.com

Little Smiles Dentistry www.littlesmilesdentistry.com

Boerne Physical Therapy www.boernepti.com

JEFF S. BULLOCK, M.D. Board Certified Gastroenterologist Specializing in Acid Reflux and Colon Diseases, with a special interest in Colon Cancer Screening Direct Line for Appointments: (210) 581-9280 Information: (210) 271-0606 Fax: (210) 593-0660 1201 S. Main Ste. 122 Boerne, TX 78006 www.sagastro.com

38

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

â&#x153;­

Boerne Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Care www.boernewomenscare.com Cancer Care Centers of South Texas www.cccst.com Christus Santa Rosa www.christussantarosa.org Fairfield Inn & Suites www.boernefairďŹ eldinn.com Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce www.boerne.org GVTC www.gvtc.com Hampton Inn & Suites www.hampton.com JPC Financial Resources www.jpcďŹ nancial.com Ken Batchelor Cadillac/ Saab/Hummer www.kenbatchelor.com

McRae MD Medical Laser Spa www.mcraemd.net Mercedes Benz of Boerne www.mbboerne.com Messiah Lutheran Church www.messiahboerne.org Methodist Boerne Medical Center www.boernehealth.com Mission Pharmacal Company www.missionpharmacal.com Morningside Ministries www.morningsidemin.org Sage Capital Mortgage www.sagecapitalmortgage.com San Antonio Gastroenterology Associates www.sagastro.com Texas Heritage Bank www.txheritagebank.com

BOERNE

Health & Wellness

In Case of Emergency METHODIST BOERNE EMERGENCY CENTER OFFERS URGENT CARE CLOSE TO HOME

T

he new Methodist Boerne Emergency Center is projected to treat as many as 16,000 patients during 2009. That’s proof that Boerne’s first 24-hour emergency facility, which opened its doors in March 2008, was sorely needed in the community.

“We started off busy, and we’ve maintained busy. For the size of Boerne and the region, that’s a healthy quantity of patients needing our services,” says Jim Willis, vice president of cardiac and adult emergency services for the Methodist Boerne Medical Center, affiliated with San Antonio-based Methodist Healthcare. The Boerne Medical Center comprises the freestanding Emergency Center and a 69,000-square-foot medical office building, which opened in April 2007.

Tenants include physicians specializing in family practice and infectious disease, internal medicine, pediatrics and sports medicine, oncology and hematology, cardiology, and maxillofacial surgery. Other tenants include a comprehensive radiology practice and a home-health agency.

The $13.6 million Emergency Center features 15 private treatment rooms, including two for trauma or cardiac care and five for urgent care. Four fast-track rooms ensure that non-urgent patients are in and out quickly. Three nurses and at least one physician are always in the building. “Never will you walk in there and not find a boardcertified emergency physician,” Willis says. And specialists are on call.

The Emergency Center provides on-site X-ray, CT scan, ultrasound, telemetry and laboratory services.

A Picture Archiving Communications

BOERNE

System allows digital storage of all images and electronic transmitting of those images to any other Methodist hospital should a patient need to be transferred or admitted.

While the nearest Methodist hospital in San Antonio is less than a 30-minute drive from Boerne, Willis says the time was right to offer emergent care closer to home for Kendall County residents. “That extra 24 miles can make a difference between living and dying,” he says, adding that the facility also draws patients from neighboring Bandera County.

A helipad is adjacent to the Emergency Center in case air-ambulance services

are needed. Cardiac research shows that a heart-attack victim has a better chance of survival if the stricken artery is opened via cardiac catheterization within 90 minutes. With that in mind, Willis says Boerne heart attack patients are in a San Antonio cardiac-cath laboratory with the artery open in as little as 68 minutes. “That’s phenomenal and that saves lives,” he says.

The Methodist Boerne Medical Center is at 134 Menger Springs. “There was an investment in a very large footprint there, and we will grow as Boerne grows,” Willis says. “This is the start of something big, and we’ll continue adding services.”

– Sharon H. Fitzgerald I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

39

Arts & Culture

Scene from A Christmas Carol

More Than an Act LIVE THEATER A COMMUNITY AFFAIR IN BOERNE

I

t takes a lot of work and coordination for the nonprofit Boerne Community Theatre, established in 1991, to mount nine shows a year and coordinate its three summer children’s drama camps.

Every show proves the effort is worthwhile.

The three part-time employees rely on 100 regular volunteers to help sell concessions, build sets and sew costumes – everyone making sure the show does indeed go on.

The BCT is the only place to see and participate in live theater in Boerne, thus the 100-seat space attracts quality actors, directors and others with a desire to tread the boards.

40

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

Individuals come from as far away as San Antonio, New Braunfels and Kerrville to mount and see shows.

“We’re out in the community, too,” says Patty Loftis, BCT’s executive/ artistic director. “Our BCT Singers group and selected actors participate in the Berges Fest, Kendall County Fair and Weihnachts Fest Parade. We just ask you to feed them!”

As Loftis plans each season, she looks to the state of the world for inspiration.

“In this coming season, which begins in September, we’re looking to keep our five regular productions, two Teen Troupe shows and Spring Special lighthearted and upbeat. Our annual holiday show

of A Christmas Carol in December also fits that bill.”

BCT spreads its feelers beyond Boerne, as well. The group is a member of the San Antonio Theatre Coalition, and Loftis is immediate past president of Texas Nonprofit Theatres. In part because of this outreach and its stellar reputation, the BCT is able to attract those quality actors and behind the scenes volunteers.

“Some of our directors have lots of experience when they approach us, others have volunteered with us over the years. We feel good that the theater is small enough to be able to mentor people to improve their skills. So far, it hasn’t failed us,” she says.

BCT’s summer drama camps, which attract youngsters with an urge to learn stagecraft and acting, are always full with the maximum enrollment of 35 per session. Many campers go on to join BCT’s Teen Troupe, which stages fall and spring shows, and provides invaluable experience to budding thespians 13 to 19.

Teen Troup shows emphasize plays with appeal for both children and adults.

Any teen from Boerne and surrounding areas can join. Speaking parts and other on-stage roles are drawn from the company by audition. About 75 kids participate in each production.

No surprise, the most anticipated offering of the season is the holiday favorite A Christmas Carol.

“We’re the only theater in Hill Country that does it on a annual basis,” Loftis says. “A lot of actors and volunteers come back each year, and audiences come to see who’s playing Scrooge because it’s always a different person,” Loftis says.

– Kelly Koepke BOERNE

Sports & Recreation

Recreation Texas-Style FAIR OAKS RANCH IS A GOLFING AND TENNIS PARADISE

S

makes going for the green in two on this par 5 tricky. “This is probably the hole you hear the most about,” he says. Live Oak also is the home to Wiese’s favorite hole, the “very pretty” No. 16. The par 3 plays 188 yards from the back tee box with a pond guarding the green. “The wind can blow in your face sometimes, and it can be pretty diabolical,” he says.

The second course, Blackjack Oak, opened its front nine in 1986 and its second nine two years later. “There’s a stretch of holes between holes 6 and 15 which used to be an old hayfield, so it has a very open links feeling. The wind blows across it, and there’s natural grass between the holes,” Wiese says.

About 58,000 rounds of golf are played annually, equally split between the two courses. The men’s member-guest, played each June, is dubbed The Battle Intense, named in honor of Fair’s prize bull, a Polled Hereford. There’s a monument dedicated to Battle Intense on the club property.

Golf isn’t the only game in town at Fair Oaks, which has one of the most extensive tennis programs in the San Antonio area.

With 15 lighted courts, the club boasts about 650 tennis members.

Among the club’s members are 1,100 children under the age of 15 who enjoy junior golf and tennis programs that rival any others in the region. “Everything here is done in Texas fashion as far as size goes,” Wiese says.

– Sharon H. Fitzgerald

J. KYLE KEENER

tep into the clubhouse at Fair Oaks Ranch Golf & Country Club, and you feel as though you are stepping into a gracious home. That’s because you are.

“What is now the clubhouse used to be Mr. Fair’s 13,000-square-foot house. One of our mottos as a company is that we want the club to be ‘a home away from home,’ and there’s no better place than Fair Oaks Ranch, because it was indeed a home. There’s a comfortable feeling,” says Phil Wiese, director of golf at the private club with a whopping 1,800 memberships.

Fair Oak Ranch was once the 6,000-acre working ranch of internationally known oilman and rancher Ralph Fair Sr. The home, built in the 1930s of native Texas Hill Country river rock, is its centerpiece. The club opened its doors in 1978 and was sold in 1987 by Ralph Fair Jr. to Dallas-based ClubCorp, the world’s largest private club operator.

Members enjoy two 18-hole championship golf courses, both designed by golfing legend Gary Player. The original course, Live Oak, was built in 1974 and renovated in 2006 by professional golfer D.A. Weibring’s course design company.

“It’s a traditional layout as far as the routing of the course, the bunkering and the trees,” Wiese says. “They did a great job of updating it.”

No. 8 on Live Oak “tends to get people,” Wiese says.

Players must carry one ravine off the tee, and a second ravine

The scenic driving range near the Live Oak course at the private Fair Oaks Golf and Country Club

BOERNE

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

41

Education

History-Making High Schools BOERNE INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT BEGINS NEW CHAPTER IN LEARNING

T

he Boerne Independent School District is turning the page to a new era.

“We are finishing the work of the past six years to implement the voters’ decision for two high schools,” says Dr. John Kelly, system superintendent since 1998. “Just as momentous, we are expanding the college prep and vocational opportunities for our

graduates through new relationships with post-secondary institutions.”

Moving from just one high school – the newly renovated and newly reopened Boerne High School – to a second, newer one – Champion High School – might be one of the toughest things to swallow in a tightknit community like Boerne. But the community has rallied behind the

changes, Kelly says.

“People say that the move from one high school to two in a Texas town is one of the hardest things to go through,” he says. “But our community has handled the issue with its customary graciousness and professionalism.

Having two high schools will enhance student achievement partly because it will ensure a more personalized

The opening of the new Champion High School gives Boerne two high schools for the first time.

42

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

PHOTO BY J. KYLE KEENER

BOERNE

Let the professionals at environment for all students.”

Champion High School, which opened in 2008, has received several awards for its design and green technology, including the Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence and the Caudill Award for outstanding design. A massive and innovative rainwater catchment system captures rainwater, storm-water runoff and airconditioning condensate for use in the school’s irrigation system.

“It is, in fact, the largest such project in any public school in Texas,” Kelly says, noting that the feature has been incorporated into science class discussions.

The community is excited about the opportunity for additional college and vocational opportunities presented by new community college and university relationships, Kelly says. “Our affiliation with these post-secondary institutions will boost academics substantially through the year. Although we had a fantastic year in 2008-09 as measured by the TAKS scores, we are committed to many other goals that are substantially improved by the post-secondary opportunities coming to both high schools,” he says.

With two high schools, two middle schools, five elementary schools and the Boerne Academy, the system continues to make strides in the academic arena.

“We continue to prove that we are a school system that produces graduates with an outstanding competitive advantage in the academic and vocational worlds after high school,” Kelly says.

The community gets behind the school system, notably in the areas of fine arts – with excellent drama, dance, visual arts, orchestra and choral programs – and athletics, which is ranked among the top three athletic programs among 4A schools in Texas.

“People move here to send their kids to our schools,” Kelly says. “I anticipate that as we move into the two-highschool era, there will be a continued effort to unify the entire community when either of the two schools excels in either academics or athletics. The thrill of accomplishment in any one area will echo throughout the 350 square miles of this district.”

– Betsy Williams BOERNE

Sage Capital Mortgage help you realize your dream of home ownership with great rates and personalized service.

128 W. Theissen Boerne, Texas 78006 (830) 249-1010

Apply online today at:

www.sagecapitalmortgage.com

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

43

Community Profile

BOERNE SNAPSHOT Boerne, located only 22 miles northwest of San Antonio in the foothills of the Texas hill country, is a blend of small-town charm, historic architecture, nature conservation and community growth.

Visitors and residents alike are inspired by its natural surroundings.

mathematical proficiency, scientific competence and social maturity. The region also offers private school options and several colleges and universities are within a short commute from Boerne.

Habitat for Humanity of San Antonio 311 Probandt San Antonio, TX 78204 (210) 223-5203 www.habitatsa.org United Way of

MEDICAL SERVICES OVERVIEW

San Antonio and Bexar County P.O. Box 898

CLIMATE OVERVIEW Boerneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s climate is a happy compromise between the Gulf Coastâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s humidity and the arid, dry conditions in West Texas, with fairly moderate temperatures year-round, and the rainfall is fairly evenly distributed as well.

34 F

Boerne is within 25 miles of several major medical facilities in the San Antonio metropolitan area.

$205,102

Boerne Hill Country

Average Home Price

Family YMCA 1361 S. Main St.

ARTS AND CULTURE

92 F

Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 815-1040

60 F July Low Temperature

www.unitedwaysatx.org

RECREATION ACTIVITIES

www.visitboerne.org

69 F

(210) 352-7000

REAL ESTATE

January Low Temperature

January High Temperature

San Antonio, TX 78293

www.ymcasatx.org/boerne City of Boerne Parks

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

& Recreation 1017 Adler Road Boerne, TX 78006

Cibolo Nature Center 140 City Park Road Boerne, TX 78006 www.cibolo.org

(830) 249-9511 Recreation Activities Link www.visitboerne.org

July High Temperature

EDUCATIONAL OVERVIEW The Boerne Independent School District exists to prepare its students for responsible citizenship, sound character, lifelong learning, and productive employment through programs and activities that challenge and develop language literacy,

44

I M AG E S B O E R N E . C O M

MORE EO ONLINE imagesboerne.com More facts, stats and community information, including relocation tools and links to resources.

BOERNE

Ad Index 3 7 A L A M O M A XI L LO FAC I A L S U RG I C A L A S S O C I AT E S PA 5 B O E R N E BA N K I N G C E N T E R 24 B O E R N E P H YS I C A L T H E R A PY 2 2 B O E R N E WO M E N ’ S C A R E 37 CANCER CARE CENTERS OF SOUTH TEX AS 3 6 C H R I S T U S SA NTA ROSA 24 FA I R FI ELD I N N & S U ITE S

3 8 LIT T LE S M I L E S D E NTI S TRY 38 MCR AE MD MEDICAL L A S E R S PA 2 5 M E RC E D E S B E NZ O F B O E R N E 2 3 M E S S I A H LU T H E R A N C H U RC H C2 METHODIST BOERNE MEDICAL CENTER 37 MISSION P H A R M AC A L CO M PA N Y

24 GV TC C3 MORNINGSIDE MINISTRIES 4 H A M P TO N I N N & S U ITE S 2 J P C FI N A N C I A L R E S O U RC E S C 4 K E N BATC H E LO R C A D I LL AC / SA A B/ H U M M E R 2 1 K E N DA L L CO U N T Y A B S T R AC T CO M PA N Y

4 3 SAG E C A P ITA L M O RTGAG E 3 8 SA N A N TO N I O GA S T RO ENTERO LO GY A S S O C I AT E S 3 1 T E X A S H E R ITAG E BA N K