October 2014
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OCTOBER
Explore what's inside this issue!
8 From the Publisher 10 Calendar 12 MUSIC
THE MalletT Brothers Band
New England natives, The Mallett Brothers Band, makes southern rock come alive!
30 Spiritual
PERSPECTIVE IS EVERYTHING
Perspective can be the greatest ally or the worst enemy of a relationship.
34 Wine A TEXAS WINE STORY
How a winery in Comfort is helping Texas earn a place on the world winemaking stage.
44 COMMUNITY VOCA PEOPLE
The world-renown performance group comes to town.
46 FITNESS
EXPLORE FITNESS CHALLENGE The Fitness Challenge is back!
Operations Manager Kristine Duran kristine@smvtexas.vom Creative Director Benjamin N. Weber ben.weber@smvtexas.com Assistant Creative Director Michael Mancha michael@smvtexas.com
36 LIFE
ADVERTISING SALES 210-507-5250 sales@hillcountryexplore.com
SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT
From mundane to monumental, every one of these activities begins with a thought…which leads to a choice… which results in an action.
18 FEATURE
Publisher Benjamin D. Schooley ben@hillcountryexplore.com
50 Old TImer
SMV TEXAS
TABLE FOR TWO
Local design group shows they can be all work AND all play
Our resident old timer sits down to chat with a new timer.
26 Gardening TIME TO MAKE SHADE
EXPLORE magazine is published by Schooley Media Ventures in Boerne, TX. EXPLORE Magazine and Schooley Media Ventures are not responsible for any inaccuracies, erroneous information, or typographical errors contained in this publication submitted by advertisers. Opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the opinions of EXPLORE and/or Schooley Media Ventures. Copyright 2014 Schooley Media Ventures, 930 E. Blanco, Ste. 200, Boerne, TX 78006
Contributing Writers
Keith Amelung Gardening
Kendall D. Aaron Spiritual
Old Timer Ramblings
Paul Wilson Life & Living
As a former nursery owner and manager Keith specialized in herbs, natives, roses and aquatic plants. There he discovered heirloom veggies, as a way to offer something unique to his customers. For more than two years, Keith worked for Fertile Garden Supply. During the last year with this company Keith appeared as the in-house “garden-guru” for NBC’s local ‘San Antonio Living’ show. It was Keith’s great pleasure to substitute/guest-host for Bob Webster on the KTSA Garden Show for nearly ten years. Currently, Keith offers his services under the banner of Have Spade, Will Travel Landscape & Consulting. He enjoys speaking to garden clubs throughout the area on a wide variety of subjects such as organic/chemical-free gardening, deer-resistant and native plants, water gardening and of course heirloom vegetables.
I’m just a normal guy. I’m not a theology student, I don’t preach in church, and I’ve never written a book. I’m just a normal guy that thinks, and feels, and is on a never-ending journey attempting to be the best person I can be. I fail frequently at this quest, yet each day, the quest continues. I’ve lived in Boerne since the late ‘80s, I’ve got a most beautiful wife, three wonderful children, and just really, really love God. Thanks for going on my spiritual journey with me.
The Old Timer tells us he's been a resident of Boerne since about 1965. He enjoys telling people what he doesn't like. When not bust'n punks he can be found feeding the ducks just off Main St. or wandering aimlessly in the newly expanded HEB. Despite his rough and sometimes brash persona, Old Timer is really a wise and thoughtful individual. If you can sort through the BS.
An insatiable curiosity for life and an incurable fascination with human behavior has forged in Paul Wilson a keen interest in helping people think about wise living. As a Life Coach, Paul offers professional mentoring to clients seeking greater personal fulfillment in their life. He currently serves as the Lead Pastor of Cibolo Creek Community Church in Fair Oaks Ranch, a faith community he began in 1996 to serve people who didn’t really like church. As artistowner of The Paul Wilson Studio, he also creates bronze sculptures for private and corporate collections. Paul and his wife, Charlotte, who make their home in Fair Oaks Ranch, are the proud parents of two teenage sons. If you’re interested in receiving daily thought-provoking insights about life and living, follow Paul on Twitter at @paulwilsonTX or Facebook at facebook.com/ paulwilsonTX.
6 EXPLORE it! LIVE IT! The REAL Kendall County.
THE GREAT OUTDOORS AWAITS
grand Opening CeleBraTiOn
saT OCTOBer 18TH | 10am-6pm | BBQ and dOOr prizes.
TwisTed Oak
HunTing & FisHing supply 1 3351 sOuTH #115, BOerne, Texas 830-336-3466
NOW OPEN
AT 46 CROSSING, IN BERGHEIM, BEHIND VALERO
From the Publisher Dearest EXPLORE reader, Sometimes I think about moving away from Boerne. I really do.
I wonder about my daydreaming sometimes. One part of me screams, “Man, life is
Not because I don’t like it here, or that I can see the writing on the wall with words
short! Pack that car and GO. Who cares if it turns out to be not what you thought…at
such as “growth” or “affordable housing”, but only because…don’t we all dream of a
least you’ll know.” Yet another side of me says, “You would be leaving a place that you
change of scenery? I know I do.
love. You’d move to Italy, perhaps not like it, and then be trying to return HOME, only
Sometimes I think that I’d like to move way out to the wild West Texas. Think Ter-
to find once again that it’s never the same.” There are times when I think that humans
lingua. Ya know, cowboys with spurs on their boots, a dog asleep by the bar, and a
simply need to remember that they CAN embark on an adventure, even if they choose
tumbleweed bouncing down Main Street. The laid back, “why bother? There’s always
not to initiate it.
tomorrow” attitude that permeates that area appeals to me sometimes. It seems quieter
And maybe that’s all that I seek sometimes: the adventure. The pursuit of something
in my head, a more connected community, and one that I think I might enjoy.
new and exciting. Sure, I could pack up and disappear, if I wanted. Who hasn’t wanted
Other times I think that I’d like to move somewhere more exotic, like Cozumel or an
to do that? But when I peel away all the layers of the onion, all I can do is look around at
Italian coast. It would feel like disappearing. To be some random guy from a small town
this wonderful community and hedge my bets that I seriously doubt I could ever be in a
in Texas, to pack up my stuff, and enjoy a coastal community in Italy sounds pretty at-
better place. So I’ll strive to simply find my adventure here.
tractive at times. I could sip coffee with the locals and taste wine in the evenings, and
Welcome to October. This month marks the 7 year anniversary for EXPLORE.
enjoy that familial spirit that I can only image exists in old-school Italian communities.
Thanks for reading along, supporting, and encouraging us for these several years.
No, I have not considered the fact that I have school aged children, and that my wife
With 7 years of articles behind us, I hope that at some point, one of them made you
and I both have careers…those are distractions. We could figure it out.
smile, laugh, or cry. That’s always been the goal of this magazine; to simply induce
During other moments, I dream of moving back to Lubbock. I spent the better part
some emotion. I hope we’ve succeeded. Oh, and thanks for going on this great
of a decade in Lubbock attending college, and some of my all time most favorite
adventure with me. I’ve loved every second. And I’m always thankful we’ve had this
memories were made there. It doesn’t matter if you attended school in Austin, College
adventure right here in Boerne.
Station, or Lubbock – we’d have to agree that for many of us, some of the most growth we had in our lives happened in our college town. So sometimes I daydream about relocating the Schooley family to Lubbock and being in a town that is chock full of good
Smiling,
times, and some wonderful memories. I don’t know where I heard this, but I’ve never forgotten it: You can NEVER return home. It sounds pretty rough, as if you are banished from your home, but that wasn’t the point. The point was that as people I think that we tend to become nostalgic about a lot of things, and towns, houses, and colleges fall into those categories. We tend to sit on our back porch and remember amazing times and we forget the rest. We daydream about packing up and heading back to a particular place that holds great nostalgic value in the hopes that we would re-enter that nostalgic time
ben@hillcountryexplore.com
and enjoy. However, you are invariably returning to the place as a different person. Life has changed you, and you are bringing a different attitude with different responsibilities, and with different goals. I went to Lubbock with $6 in my pocket, and with no real goal other than to have a blast. So I did. If I went back to Lubbock today, I’d be concerned with home values, school rankings, and career opportunities. You assume you haven’t changed, but you have. And so you return “home”. Only to find that it’s not as you recall. Sure, the streets are still the same, and the weather hasn’t changed, and your favorite bar still exists. In fact, it could be as if nothing has changed, and yet everything has. As for Italian coastal villages, I’ll classify that as simply a fantasy. I’d go and be irritated that I’d have to learn Italian, couldn’t catch my favorite football game on TV, and be ticketed daily for driving on the wrong side of the road.
8 EXPLORE it! LIVE IT! The REAL Kendall County.
SATURDAY OCTOBER 25, 2014
NOON-8PM Boerne Visitors Center
FEA TURING Birds of Prey
Live Celtic Music
by Last Chance Forever
Pie Eating Contest
Trail of the Night Flyers a totally original Owl presentation
by Ravenmoor
.
A LS O. . .
Kids Costume Contest
Big Lob Throwing Contest
.
.
Screamin’ Fun Photo Booth
Strolling Mentalist, Giani the Great
“Wildhearts”, Wildlife Art Exhibit Crafts & Art Projects
.
.
.
.
Henna Tattoos
Turkish Psychic Melek!
Pumpkin Patch Puppet Show
Belly Dancers
.
.
Trunk or Treat
A Performance by Riverpickers
GAMES AND ACTIVITIES INCLUDE: Apple Doonkin’
Witch Pitch Jack-O-Lantern Bean Bag Toss Pin the Bow on Mr. Bones Monster Mash Pumpkin Ornaments and more
Th is ev en t is
FRE E !
For more information call or visit: 830-249-7277 www.harvestmooncelebration.com facebook.com/harvestmooncelebration
OCTOBER
Get out and enjoy the great Texas Hill Country! The most comprehensive events calendar. Send submissions to info@hillcountryexplore.com
October 3-4 BOERNE St. Peter’s 2014 Fall Festival
Annual St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church Fall Festival! Please plan to join us to celebrate FAITH, FAMILY & FUN! Brandon Heath performing. Tickets on sale at www.itickets.com/events/327697/ or call 830.816.2233 for more info
October 3 CASTROVILLE Fiorella Fridays
Enjoy live music, vendors, food, wine tastings, a beer garden, and shops open late and activities on the streets of downtown during this festive night in Old Castroville. Fiorella and Paris Streets, 1215 Fiorella.
October 3 FREDERICKSBURG First Friday Art Walk
Tour fine art galleries offering special events, refreshments and extended viewing hours.
October 3 JOHNSON CITY Texas Wine Month Kick-Off
Wineries in the Texas Hill Country host kick-off parties for the monthlong Texas wine celebration. Tickets are available online. At 42 wineries in the Texas Hill Country. www.texaswinetrail.com
October 3-5 FREDERICKSBURG Oktoberfest
Celebrate the fun and flavor of Fredericksburg’s German heritage with three days of music, food, drink, dancing, arts and crafts, children’s entertainment, OkTUBAfest, Chicken Dance Around the Square and other events. In the Marktplatz, West Main at North Adams. www.oktoberfestinfbg.com
October 4 JOHNSON CITY Fall Lavender Trail
Lavender farms open their gates and welcome visitors for an open house. At noon, see a lavender distillation demonstration at M&J Lavender Farm. Also visit Becker Vineyards; Chantilly Lace Country Inn Bed and Breakfast, Restaurant, and Lavender and Herb Farm; and Rocking L Ranch. Hours are 9 a.m.–6 p.m. www.johnsoncity-texas.com
October 4 CASTROVILLE Volksmarch
This noncompetitive walk/job/run event is open to all ages. 1115 Angelo St. www.castroville.com
October 4 JOHNSON CITY Wild Game Dinner
Tickets to this 14th-annual event include a meal, music, dance and a chance at the door prize. Hours are 5 p.m.–midnight. Blanco County Show Barn.
October 9-12 GRUENE Gruene Music and Wine Fest
Enjoy the best in live Texas music and wine with vintner events, live music, food and drink sampling,
and the Great Guitar Auction. At Gruene Hall and the Grapevine in Gruene.
October 10-12 BOERNE The Key To The Hills Rod Run
This car show features hundreds of vehicles made before 1949. www.prideoftexasstreetrods.org
October 10-12 INGRAM Texas Arts and Crafts Fair
Against a backdrop of the beautiful Guadalupe River, this event features more than 150 artists, gourmet food and craft beers, live music, activities and art demonstrations. Hill Country Arts Foundation, 120 Point Theatre Road. www.txartsandcrafts. com
October 11 BOERNE Second Saturday Art and Wine
Enjoy a glass of wine and stroll through the art galleries. Hours are 4–8 p.m. Various venues. www. secondsaturdayartandwine.com
October 11-12 BOERNE Market Days
Artists, crafters and vendors share their creative talents and wares to the sounds of homegrown Texas musicians. Main Plaza. www.boernemarketdays.com
October 16 GRUENE Come and Taste It
Complimentary tastings are offered of the craft beer and three wines. Hours are 5–8 p.m. Grapevine Texas Wine Bar, 1612 Hunter Road. www. grapevineingruene.com
October 17-18 GRUENE Old Gruene Market Days
Nearly 100 vendors offer uniquely crafted items and packaged Texas foods. Hours are 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Gruene Historic District, 1724 Hunter Road. www.gruenemarketdays.com
October 17-19 BOERNE Texas Hill Country Invitational Art Show
This art show features works by artists from across the country, a paint-out with silent auction, quick draw, artist demonstration and artist breakfast. St. Peters, 202 W. Kronkosky St. www.boerneprofessionalartists.com
October 17-19 FREDERICKSBURG Trade Days
Shop with more than 350 vendors in six barns, plus acres of antiques and collectibles, or kick back and enjoy the biergarten and live music. 355 Sunday Farms Lane. www.fbgtradedays.com
October 18 NEW BRAUNFELS Taste of the Hills Gala
and raises funds for Bulverde/Spring Branch Area Chamber of Commerce projects. Boulder Springs Event Center 1723 Herbelin Road.
October 19 BLANCO Deacon Jack Murrell Memorial Golf Tournament
Play begins at 1:00 p.m. A barbecue dinner and awards ceremony happen afterward. Vaaler Creek Golf Club, 228 Jeff Vaughn.
October 23 BOERNE Voca People
This dynamic, intergalactic musical theater experience bridges languages, cultures and planets. Champion High Auditorium, 201 Charger Blvd. www.boerneperformingarts.com
October 25 BOERNE All British Car Day
Open to all British automobile marquees. Main Plaza, 100 N. Main.
October 25 FREDERICKSBURG Fredericksburg Food and Wine Fest
This grand celebration of Texas food and wine also features musical entertainment and special events. In the Marktplatz, West Main at North Adams. www.fbgfoodandwinefest.com
October 25 BOERNE Harvest Moon Celebration
This fall fair includes Celtic music, belly dancing, palm readings, a costume contest, games and bird shows by Last Chance Forever. Boerne Visitors Center, 1407 S. Main.
October 25 KERRVILLE Fall RoundUp Exhibition and Sale Renowned Western artists gather for a gala evening including a meet-the-artist reception, silent auction of works, buffet dinner and dancing. More than 100 Western-themed artworks including oils, watercolors, pastels and bronzes are up for sale. Museum of Western Art 1550 Bandera Highway.
October 25 STONEWALL Barbecue on the Pedernales
In keeping with the historic head-of-state barbecues held on the LBJ Ranch during Lyndon B. Johnson’s presidency in the 1960s, the National Park Service hosts this barbecue with live music by Asleep at the Wheel. Hours are 4–9 p.m. LBJ National Historical Park. www.nps.gov/lyjo
October 26 BOERNE Boerne Concert Band Fall Concert
Boerne High Auditorium, 1 Greyhound Lane. www. boerneconcertband.org
This event celebrates Texas foods and beverages
10 EXPLORE it! LIVE IT! The REAL Kendall County.
Make Your Reservations NOW!! 518 River Road, Boerne, TX • www.littlegretel.com • 830-331-1368
October 2014
www.hillcountryexplore.com
11
MUSIC
nd: a B s r lair e F h t n r o uthe tt Br e o l S l h a The M Roots wit land g En New
By Kristine Duran
W
hen we first listen to a
in between and that’s pretty much where all the gas
little bit of twang and there’s a little bit of rock and
band, our brain reflex-
money comes from.”
there’s a little bit of lots of other things,” Luke says.
ively logs them under
It’s that kind of disciplined approach that lends
the most fitting genre
to the maturity interwoven with the band’s country
them, because once you think you’ve got it figured
masthead, waiting for
rock flair.
out, the next track will throw you for a loop.
the next time your itch
Experience is a considerable source of that musi-
Make it easier on yourself and don’t pigeonhole
“One thing we pride ourselves on is being able to
for “noise-core goth rock” needs to be scratched.
cal maturity as well, with each of the six members
be versatile. We do a lot of acoustic shows, we can
Rare are the bands that challenge the inexorable clas-
possessing an unexpected musical past. For example,
do a stripped-down show on a really tiny stage, or we
sification by playing whatever the hell they want. Take
Luke’s previous endeavors include a 12 year stint in
can get on a huge stage with a light show and rock
a gamble to overthrow the whole system by listening
a hip-hop group, while dobro player (and all around
out. It’s nice to do a little bit of everything.”
to New England’s wildly eclectic crew of genre rebels,
multi-faceted musician) Wally Wenzel and drummer
The Mallett Brothers Band.
Brian Higgins left their double bass punk thrashing
bined, this group of alt-rockers continues to
Still, with over decades of experience com-
Out of Portland, Maine, the six-piece formed in
for the whisky-soaked southern rock stylings of TMBB.
grow, with the crux of that growth stemming from
2009 and have been conjoined to the touring circuit
Perhaps calling it southern rock is a blatant oxymoron,
their onstage presence.
ever since. With support slots with some heavy hitters
but you can’t deny the influence.
like The Josh Abbot Band, Turnpike Troubadours, and Toby Keith, their efforts have garnered them con-
“We definitely can’t call ourselves southern rock because we are definitely not southern, but there’s a
“We’ve been a band for about 5 years, and I think the live show affected how we did everything else. The first album is very different from the second,
sistent local acclaim as New England Music Awards’
which is even more different from the third. A lot of
Best Band in New England and with their most recent
that had to do with the live show and the evolution
album, Land (2013), labeled as Best Album – and
of what we were doing on stage. If the energy of the
that’s only 2014. “We don’t really ever take any time off,” vocalist/ guitarist Luke Mallett explains. “We’re out pretty much every single week; we do at least three or four shows a week. These long trips, we’ll go out for three or four weeks at a time. We’re lucky that New England’s been good to us and keeps us really really busy
there’s a little bit of twang and there’s a little bit of rock and there’s a little bit of lots of other things
album matches the energy of your live show, then you’re doing something right.” As for plans on a new album, Luke says, “We have officially booked time in October. So we will actually be recording our new album on either side of our Texas tour. We’re gonna start doing some recording in Maine, then we’re gonna stop in Atlanta on
12 EXPLORE it! LIVE IT! The REAL Kendall County.
lot of attitudes that are the same here and there. We’re pretty drawn to the history as well. We drove
ON THE ROAD
that road from Amarillo to Austin one day, and we were driving forever and ever in the high plains. We spent the whole drive listening to a hardcore history broadcast, and just being there and looking at that landscape and listening to what happened…it was amazing. Very spiritual place.” And that love has clearly been reciprocated. “It’s cool for us to go out on the road and have people sit-
Tyler TX
Lago Del Pino Friday, October 17th, 2014 | 8pm
Houston TX
Cottonwood Saturday, October 18th, 2014
ting there to say, ‘I knew you guys were coming, I saw you on the website, I went and checked out your videos, I already know my favorite song…’ They do their research and they get ready for you and that doesn’t happen everywhere we go. So I think that’s kind of an ongoing thing in Arkansas and Texas; people prepare our way home and we’re gonna try to finish the album
for you to show up. They just really love live music.” Submit one Sunday evening to retire on the legend-
there. It would be great if we could have it done by Christmas, but we just gotta kind of dive into it and see
ary stomping grounds of Gruene Hall and observe
what happens.”
TMBB, while they’re still hovering under the radar.
As Maine grows colder with the onset of fall, TMBB
Abandon the impending woes of Monday morning
begins its migration toward the West for a new thread
with a tranquil fall night, frosty beer in hand, and some
of shows. More importantly: to Texas, a state all mem-
genuinely soulful country rock as your soundtrack.
bers are said to be in love with.
Legend has it that bassist Nick Leen once stomped
“Maine is very different, but it’s a lot similar than people realize. There are a lot of parallels even
the sole off of his boot during a live show. If that’s not swaying enough, then you’re just being stubborn.
Gruene Hall Sunday, October 19th, 2014 | 5 - 9pm
Spicewood, TX
Poodies Roadhouse Thursday, October 23rd, 2014
Austin, TX
The Continental Club supporting Mother Hips Friday, October 24th, 2014 | 10:00pm
Houston, TX (Round 2) Cottonwood Saturday, October 25th, 2014
More infor at: mallettbrothersband.com/tour
though the landscape is very different. There are a
October 2014
New Braunfels, TX
www.hillcountryexplore.com
13
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14 EXPLORE it! LIVE IT! The REAL Kendall County.
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Tapatio Springs – possibly the best kept secret in the Hill Country 420 Paradise Point. Stunning 4 bedroom, 4.5 bath custom home, centered on two lots with breathtaking views of The Resort. $879,500
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The Graves Group The art of Hill Country luxury real estate
Office: 210-408-4053 LOGO LOCKUP I
Cell: 210-260-2176
A Better View of Living Standard Black
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A Better View of Living White Reversed
Incorrect uses
Use only the “B” graphic
Exclude the tagline: “A Better View of Living”
A Better View of LivingA Better View of Living
Change the color of any individual element
A Better View of Living
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A Better View of Living
When you’re ready to take the next step towards a second home in the city, The Broadway Residences will welcome you with an unparalleled lifestyle and a level of hospitality that rivals many luxury hotels. Your every comfort and convenience have been considered with thoughtfully coordinated amenities and services. Enjoy the yoga room and state-of-the-art exercise facility, or relax around the resort-style pool and spa complete with cabanas and gas grills. The Broadway Residences are pet friendly and offer two dog parks. Living at The Broadway allows you to attend to business without ever leaving your home, taking advantage of the business center and conference room. Come home to the city. Come home to The Broadway Residences. Alamo Heights I North San Antonio I IH-10 / Hill Country I Boerne I 210-824-7878 I www.phyllisbrowning.com
16 EXPLORE it! LIVE IT! The REAL Kendall County.
Mary Mellard, DDS
Randy Mellard, DDS, MS
• American Dental Association
• American Dental Association
• Texas Dental Association
• Texas Dental Association
• San Antonio Dental Society
• San Antonio Dental Society
• Academy of General Dentistry
• Academy of General Dentistry
DENTISTRY for the WHOLE FAMILY
The minute you walk through the doors at Mellard Dentistry, you will know you’ve come to the right place. Dr. Mary Mellard and Dr. Randy Mellard, a well-regarded husband-and-wife dental team, will help make you and your family more comfortable than you ever thought possible. Both doctors received their degrees from the University of Texas at Houston, and each year they continue to study advanced, postgraduate dentistry with some of the best-known clinicians in the country, In addition, Dr. Randy Mellard is a specialist in periodontology (gum therapy), and has advanced training in implant dentistry. But despite their clinical accolades, Dr. Mellard and Dr. Mellard do something all too rare in today’s rushed world... they listen, and get to know each patient one-on-one. So whether you’re looking for advanced cosmetic and restorative dentistry or simply a dentist to help maintain your family’s dental health, join us. We’ll give you something to smile about! Dr. Mary Mellard and Dr. Randy Mellard have been married more than twenty years, and have four children. They are native Texans, and enjoy being active in our local community.
Important Awards: Fellow, Academy of General Dentistry - Dr. Mary & Dr. Randy Mellard Master, Academy of General Dentistry - Dr. Mary Mellard Lifelong Learning and Service Recognition Award - Dr. Mary Mellard (one of 10 dentists in the state)
Comprehensive Dental Care
Cosmetic and Aesthetic Dentistry
• Great with children and adults • Professional dental cleanings • State-of-the-art equipment • Digital x-rays significantly reduce radiation • We make your comfort our priority • Periodontal specialist on staff
• Advanced training in cosmetic dentistry • Invisalign® “invisible” orthodontics • Galileos ® 3D Dental Imaging System • Implants to replace missing teeth
Twice nominated as Texas Dentist of the Year (2007 & 2009) - Dr. Mary Mellard Master of Science in Periodontics, University of Texas -Dr. Randy Mellard
Services Offered:
Sedation Dentistry for fearful patients or long procedures All-on-Four Smile in a Day Same day crowns (Cerec) Implants Six Month Smiles Cosmetic makeovers Invisalign Non-surgical treatment for gum disease
CARE for the whole Children deserve a wonderful dental experience. We encourage parents to bring their children in for a visit any time after their first birthday. Your child will love it here!
Now Welcoming New Patients
(210) 782-8421
www.mellarddentistry.com
Creating the healthy beautiful smile of your dreams in a comfortable caring atmosphere
TEAM
EXPLORE This October issue marks the 7th anniversary of EXPLORE. In years past we’ve done some fun things, and some not so fun things for the anniversary issue. The term “3D” is now taboo in this office (in October 2012 we did an issue entirely in 3D). This year we thought we’d roll back the veil of secrecy that is EXPLORE and let you know a little bit about the people who bring you the Hill Country’s most wonderfully colorful publication in existence. Most people probably believe there is an army of writers, designers, copy editors, and photographers who put this mag together month after month. The harsh reality is that there are four of us. And at one time not so long ago in a galaxy not that far away, there were but two. We all wear multiple hats around the office and have a blast doing it. As EXPLORE has grown through the years, it has always managed to stay true to its original mission. To bring interesting, fun, deep and entertaining content to the readers who continue to pick up the monthly issue on the streets of Boerne and surrounding areas. We do this because we appreciate the folks of the Hill County, the people who are just visiting and because we love our jobs. Thank you for making the past 7 years possible. We hope there are many, MANY more to come.
18 EXPLORE it! LIVE IT! The REAL Kendall County.
Title: Writer/Content Wrangler/Bill Collector/Dame of All Trades How did you get into this industry? I’ll omit the finding-myself-by-switching-majors-last-minute spiel, and fast forward to my melancholy years as a struggling unpaid intern. The most significant: an editorial internship with a well-known publication in San Antonio, or as my publisher calls it, “that black hole down there.” It seemed like I had lost my voice just as soon as I had found it once that was over, and have been searching for it ever since. That was until I left my horror story of a job proofing yellow page ads, for Boerne’s pride and joy: SMV. This is where I would give the Career Point thumbs up. Favorite part of your job: I get to talk to some of the most interesting human beings, not only in this area, but probably in the world. As a naturally quiet person, I can’t think of any other way I would be exposed to the volume and quality of people I get to meet through this job. Plus, I’m finding that voice
again, so no complaints thus far. BUT it’s only been one month, so take these words with more than the proverbial grain of salt. Least favorite part of your job: My boss insists on lunching at mediocre Mexican restaurants, and it’s insulting to my heritage. Favorite aspect of EXPLORE: I haven’t been here long, but I can already tell that EXPLORE is just as much a good time for the readers as it is for the writers. It’s not afraid to say a four letter word or two and feature an esteemed artist within the same issue. That’s the kind of publication I can identify with. I may curse like a sailor with my friends, but that doesn’t mean I can’t curl up with a Murakami novel and a glass of late harvest Riesling at the end of the day. Know what I mean?
ville, it wasn’t too far out of my comfort zone. I remember the text I sent my San Antonio friends after my first week: “Everyone is so sweet in Boerne!” I respect the Boerne pride raging within some residents, although I find myself defending my beloved SA more often than not. I will admit that I consider myself made for the city life, but I can appreciate what Boerne has to offer. Even if that means lunching on enchiladas that would make my abuelita roll over in her grave. Thoughts on the office culture at SMV: No comment. Just kidding. I like the little team we’re building, as well as being the only girl. I grew up in a house full of girls, five of us, so this is a pleasant change of pace for me. None of us take ourselves too seriously, just seriously enough to produce some bitchin’ magazines.
First impression of Boerne: Before I started at SMV, I had never ventured into this little gem called Boerne. As a small town girl who grew up in Castro-
Kristine Duran
I’m only doing this because my boss is making me.
October 2014
www.hillcountryexplore.com
19
BEN WEBER Title: Photographer / Design Monkey / Creative Ninja How did you get into this business: I was one of the lucky few who knew what they wanted to do before going into college. Unfortunately I bounced around several places in several cities around the state trying to find my place. Before EXPLORE I spent four years in design hell. It wasn’t all bad designing yellow page ads five days a week, but towards the end of my tenure there I was really questioning my career path. I mean REALLY questioning it. Like seriously considering the military as a viable alternative. The day I was not so politely told to pack my desk and leave was both the best and most frightening day of my design career. There was my wife and 2 year old son to think about so I needed to find something fast. It only took three weeks to land this gig. I had worked for a magazine in Austin and really enjoyed the work and environment. When I found out the publisher’s name was Ben AND he graduated from Texas Tech, just like me, I knew it was meant to be. I was hired on the spot and we haven’t looked back since.
This is my go to pose. I’m very good at it.
Favorite aspect of EXPLORE: We have other publications that need to have a specific look because of the demographic of the reader. EXPLORE on the other hand is our publication. We can make it look however the hell we want and we don’t have anyone but ourselves to tell us what to do. Except the advertisers. Advertisers like their opinions. But the articles, that’s where the fun is. Most memorable time while working on EXPLORE: 3D ISSUE. I’m not going to say it was my favorite or least favorite memory. Just that it was, is, and will be the most memorable time here. Every time Schooley mentions doing another 3D issue I yell at him to get out of my office. I added it up. The week we went to print for that stupid issue, I worked 80 hours from Monday - wee hours of Friday morning. Then I almost missed my 6am flight to Dallas for a press check. Honestly, I wasn’t 100% sure it was going to work because of all the problems we had actually getting the 3D to look the way it should. I slept on the plane (I never sleep on planes), got to the printer at 10am, they flopped the proofs down in front of me, I put on the glasses and… it looked INCREDIBLE. I was so excited to get back home, high five everyone and punch Schooley in the gut. The readers loved it. Favorite ad design: I love doing Little Gretel ads. They’re so cool over there and sometimes come up with some insane ideas for their ads. Like the one we did where we Photoshopped the manager’s baby’s head on a winged cherub for a Valentine’s ad. Also the one where we put Ben’s brother Morgan’s head on a buffed up male model for his landscaping business. We couldn’t stop laughing at that. Thoughts about the office culture at EXPLORE: We’re pretty tight here. Even with new folks. When you work in close quarters with just a few people, you get to know them quickly. And when you’ve been here a while and gone to war, so to speak, with these people it makes for a very familial environment. When someone’s having a bad day, everyone knows. When someone wants to burn the world down, we all feel it. Not in a contagious or detrimental way. But when someone just isn’t 100% those who are, are more than happy to say “Don’t stress. I got this.” It’s the greatest place I’ve ever worked at. Even better than yellow pages. Did you ever think you’d be doing this for a living? Yes. Sort of. I knew what I wanted to do in a general sense. I never thought I’d be working as a Creative Director for 3 magazines as well as a designer as well as a photographer. People may discount us because we’re a small group, but I guarantee you, if you work for us you are exposed to opportunities you’d NEVER experience elsewhere. I know I was.
20 EXPLORE it! LIVE IT! The REAL Kendall County.
Title: Check-Signer How did you get into this business: There’s a really long story behind founding this company that I’ll spare you, and instead will just say this: it all boiled down to my daughter’s ballet classes at 2pm. My job of the time would never have made it possible for me to attend my daughter’s ballet class in the middle of the day, so when I started SMV (the company that publishes EXPLORE), that was one of the cardinal rules: I had to be able to attend her class. Since then, there have been numerous times when I have had to stop and think “Could I still attend her class?” and sometimes the answer is NO. When the answer is no, things have to change. She has moved on from ballet, but I love that the flexibility is still there.
I think I’ll dye my hair blonde. What could go wrong?
Favorite aspect of EXPLORE: I’ve always loved the fact that EXPLORE is one of the few publications I’ve read that isn’t afraid to make fun of itself. It never takes itself too seriously, yet at the same time, isn’t scared to go very, very deep with many subjects. When I philosophize about EXPLORE, I like to think that the reader experiences at least one emotion when going through the magazine. I don’t care if it makes you laugh, cry, or smile, but I do hope that it affects you in some way. Favorite memory while working on EXPLORE: Man, there are a lot. At the same time, I don’t know if I can select a single event that is my “favorite”. Instead, when I think about EXPLORE, I simply remember a lot of time spent laughing. Just laughing. The people behind this publication have a lot of fun creating it, and while some of the staff has changed over the years, I just remember a whole bunch of moments where I’ve been busy wiping tears of laughter out of my eyes. Oh, the time we did a 3-D issue was pretty memorable. I enjoyed it, but the designers HATED it. I slept soundly while they worked 24 hour shifts. Ah, good times. We’ll do it again someday. Most memorable article that has run in EXPLORE: Our resident historian, Marjorie Hagy, did an article about some kids that were out in a field back in the 1800s here in Boerne and were attacked by Indians. Several of the kids were scalped and killed. It chilled me badly. Later we found out that they were attacked in the outskirts of town, which was approximately at the location of Plant and Blanco. I think about that article frequently when driving through that location, especially when I see the kids using the crosswalk to get to school. A close 2nd was an article I did back in 2007 on Johann Eyfells, who is an artist in Fredericksburg. He’s this eccentric sculpture artist who was married to a renowned painter, Kristin. When she passed, he turned his property into an art exhibit that honored her. There is no end date for the exhibit. It will run the rest of his life. I enjoyed the love story behind it. Favorite ad that has ever run: Easy. The one my late brother did. It was just how he rolled – always willing to be the punch line. Miss that kid. Is there a least favorite part of EXPLORE for you? Yeah, it always wears me out when people can’t see the humor in things. Old Timer complains about everything from the ducks to City Hall, and does so in an obviously tonguein-cheek way. But sure enough, we’ll have someone write in very upset that he made fun of the duck statue or the security hut out by City Lake. I wish sometimes that people could see the humor in things and not take everything so personal. Did you ever think you’d be doing this for a living? Not in a billion years. Let’s see – the guy with zero experience professionally writing, with zero design skills, that has never run a publication before who decides to start a magazine…not exactly a recipe for success. I literally thank God every single day for getting to come to work here, and I constantly tell myself to cherish this time, because if it ever comes to an end, it will go down as perhaps the most fun I’ve ever had.
BEN SCHOOLEY
October 2014
www.hillcountryexplore.com
21
MICHAEL MANCHA Title: Digital Artiste / Social Media Authority / Assistant (to the) Creative Ninja How did you get into this industry? By accident. No, really. After college, I hit the pavement as an aspiring, idealistic journalist with a heart for magazine writing inspired by the movie Almost Famous. But then, I got a whiff of the smelling salts that is real life and quickly realized I could make more money in the creative department. Also, I could wear shorts and hoodies to work. After a stint in the creative side of a popular San Antonio magazine, I discovered I really liked it (like, really liked it) and I could stroke a mean canvas. I love what I do and would do it for beans, but my wife wouldn’t allow it. Moral of the story: Do what you love and the rewards will come. If you just want to make money, work in oil.
I hope my mom doesn’t find out this is whiskey and not coffee.
Favorite part of your job: My job is equal parts art, science, and math - and it’s a challenge. It’s strategic, calculated, and efficient but at the same time creative, open, and chaotic. Trying to find the balance and put it on paper is why I love it. Also, creative freedom. Those two words are a designers utopia. It’s like an ice cream sundae buffet with unlimited toppings and no one to judge you at the end. Least favorite part of your job: The constant berating, physical and emotional abuse, harsh working conditions, and relentless subjection to blaring Hall and Oats. Ok, so that’s not true but commuter traffic sounded whiny. Favorite aspect of EXPLORE: Explore is like a drunk uncle - hear me out on this one. He says what he thinks, is a little bit irreverent, but in the end the party is dead without him. First impression of Boerne: Growing up in a small town, it’s better than I expected - don’t take that out of context, it’s a compliment. Boerne is unique and proud to be. The corporate stuff is hidden and the people are happy with that. Some towns like to use their individuality as a selling point, Boerne doesn’t do that. I don’t get the pronunciation though. It’s confusing. It looks like bow-urn-y or born-y. Thoughts on the office culture at SMV: Let’s see... I get to wear whatever I want, listen to music all day, and have a coffee pot 10 steps away. My office mates are brilliant, and we make top-shelf magazines for a living. Oh, wait, the water fountain art piece. It sounds like a running toilet. Sorry boss.
22 EXPLORE it! LIVE IT! The REAL Kendall County.
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25
GARDENING
By Keith Amelung • Have Spade, Will Travel www.havespade.com
For decades now, I and every other nursery profession-
the nearest native Live Oak, we shouldn’t
al have proclaimed that fall is the best time to plant trees.
have to worry about the roots grafting for
It seems like every month I repeat myself, “We don’t have
some time, and if you feed and prune ap-
winters, we have summers!” when comparing central
propriately, your new tree should never
Texas to the majority of the country. Now is the time to
get it. Arizona Cypress trees are gaining
undertake serious, labor intensive landscape plantings.
in popularity. While true evergreens, they
All trees, shrubs and evergreen-type perennials are best
are more useful as large screening plants,
planted in early fall, giving eight or nine months of cool
as they shouldn’t be “pruned up.” Much
growing conditions to set their roots deeply before the
like a happy Magnolia, one shouldn’t be
heat of summer takes hold.
able to walk under an Arizona Cypress. The
Nothing can add more value to your property than the
Mexican White Oak, while a very desirable tree, isn’t
perfect shade tree. When I go out to visit folks, the first
always evergreen. They can hold leaves through mild
thing I always look for, regardless of why I’ve been invited
winters, but will drop them during the occasional harsh
out, is if they have a tree shading the home. The summer
times, or if located in very exposed conditions. The pretty
sun bakes your home from the southwest, not due south,
pinkish new growth is often a little later to emerge than
not due west, but southwest. Go to this side of your
with Live Oaks.
home and walk out twenty to thirty feet. This is where we
Nothing can add more value to your property than the perfect shade tree.
Other than the Mexican White Oak (still occasionally
want our shade tree. More than a few of you might be
called Monterrey Oak), Chinquapin Oak thrive in our area;
the roots from the pot if necessary, being careful not to
standing in your neighbor’s yard, well... I guess we know
their large leaves can turn beautiful brick red in the fall.
break any branches. Gently guide the root ball into your
what we are getting them for Christmas this year! If you
The Bald and Montezuma Cypress trees only need copi-
new hole. Hopefully it sits just a little higher than the
are standing in your own driveway or the like, go out
ous water as juveniles, they grow quite well on a realistic
existing grade, if not, add soil underneath to lift the root
further, not closer. BIG trees located too close to a home
one deep drink every two weeks watering schedule once
ball accordingly. Tamp this soil as firmly as possible and
can cause more problems than they are worth, so let’s not
established. Escarpment Cherry, rare, but beautiful; If you
re-set your tree. Backfill with as much of the native soil
create an issue, and plant appropriately sized trees in the
can find one buy it! Elms come in many forms, including
as possible, adding composted topsoil to offset for any
correct place. Closer to the home, we can add smaller
our native Cedar Elm. Fast growing for a hardwood tree,
rocks that were removed during the excavation; create a
ornamental trees, but more on this at a later time.
their narrow growth pattern often causes splitting in older
small raised mound with a trench around the very edge to
trees, so I don’t encourage these unless placed appropri-
serve as a water catch.
These same rules apply if you are trying to shade a living space in your yard. Locate the area you want to shade,
ately. Pecans are another tree to be careful with. A happy
back off to the southwest twenty feet, and there we go.
Pecan can grow quickly; they like deep river-bottom
time, I prefer something with compost added. Thorough-
But keep this new tree away from your house by at least
soil and never want to dry out. Pecan trees are prone to
ly, and I mean thoroughly, water in the tree and all of the
twenty feet as well or consider a smaller variety of tree.
dropping big heavy limbs in summer, so don’t plant too
dry soil around it. Staking of your new tree is only neces-
Many folks do things differently ... that just makes them
close to any structure or carport. Maple trees are often
sary in areas with high winds. Caging on the other hand
wrong. Big trees grown in small places equal big problems
maligned as slow growers, but not in my experience.
may be mandatory in deer prone areas. Not only will deer
in the long run; a little planning goes a long way twenty
Whether you choose a Mexican Sugar, Caddo, Trident or
eat the new growth off of most trees, but the bucks will
years from now when you stand back and admire your
Bigtooth Maple, proper care can result in a stunning ad-
rub the velvet off of their antlers on young trees, in many
work, watching the grandkids swinging from the branches
dition to your landscape in only ten to fifteen years. Just
cases killing them.
of the tree you planted on their 1st birthday!
stay away from the Red and Silver maples that don’t like
So now that we’ve chosen the location, what kind of tree do we want? The most common request is “fast growing.”
our alkaline conditions. When you visit your local nursery, there are a few things
You should apply a generous 3-4” layer of mulch at this
Fertilization of your new trees is quite helpful. Use a basic natural fertilizer at a rate of 2 cups per inch caliper, sprinkled over the root zone every month for the first two
Well, fast growing trees have week and brittle wood; not
to look for. Firstly, a tall tree in a small pot is not a good
years. It’s necessary to backtrack a bit here and talk about
the best things near a home or over a parking area. There
deal. There is a good chance it will be root-bound and
mycorrhizal inoculants. Any good nursery will offer these,
is certainly a place for trees like Mexican Sycamore, Texas
would require efforts most folks are uncomfortable per-
sometimes mixed with a fertilizer in a dry form, some-
(seedless) Ash and Cottonless Cottonwood, heck even
forming to help it live very long. Most trees will be four to
times in a liquid used as a soil drench. I like a product
the dreaded Chinaberry can be valuable additions to a
six feet tall in a five gallon size container. I prefer a little
called MycoStim. These are my “root stimulators” of
landscape if in the right place and given the elbow room
bit bigger 15 gallon sized tree, usually about 1” to 1 ½”
choice. They can be expensive when added to the price
to grow. I met a gentleman a few years back that wanted
caliper. Basically avoid a big tree in a small pot. Look for
of one tree, but are indispensible if you are planting a
to plant three Sycamores in his postage-stamp front yard,
exposed roots circling inside the pot, especially right up
handful; used also on shrubs, evergreens, roses, etc.
“I want shade and I want it NOW!” Needless to say I let
against the trunk as these can girdle and significantly slow
Some are added under the roots, some are watered in;
someone else take care of him because it wasn’t the right
growth if not altogether choke and kill the tree eventually.
follow the label directions please.
thing to do for the property - No, the customer isn’t always
Now that your new tree is home, the hard work begins!
October in the vegetable garden: We should be full tilt
right! It is true that hard wooded trees like Oak, Cherry and
You could have already done this part, actually it’s a
in to planting our fall crops now; Spinach, Kale, Lettuce,
Maples grow “slower,” but many folks are surprised by just
pretty good idea to dig your hole first, just to make sure
Broccoli, and if you really hate your children - Brussels’
how fast they can reach a decent size in less than ten years
you can! The first mistake most folks make is digging
Sprouts. I have all kinds of great veggies at the Herff
with good stewardship.
the hole too deep. Most of the time your hole will only
Farm Farmers Market. Come see me Saturdays 9am-
be about 10-12” deep, but make it as wide and ugly as
12:30pm.
The quickest choice is a simple question, “Evergreen or deciduous?” Live Oaks are our best choice for an
you can, not perfectly round please. When you go to set
evergreen shade tree. True, we have Oak wilt to consider;
the tree in, never lift by the trunk! Lay the tree on its side
if your tree-planting-spot is less than sixty or so feet from
and tap the pot off, rolling from side to side to loosen
26 EXPLORE it! LIVE IT! The REAL Kendall County.
Welcome to Boerne
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Bluebonnet Realty HOMES FOR SALE
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SPIRITUAL
Perspective is
everything By Kendall D. Aaron :: kendall@hillcountryexplore.com
I tend to be a bit of an introspective soul, and probably
cause you are pre-disposed to the fact that
analyze situations more than most. Sometimes it serves
the time is going to be miserable and
me well, and sometimes it overcomplicates things, but I
full of discord. Arguments explode from
got to pondering some deep subjects while watching a
simple disagreements to all out warfare.
recent episode of Divorce Court.
Hateful words are thrown around, name-
Yes, I know, Divorce Court is probably not the finest
calling, and ultimately even more separa-
display of human nature, but hey, I was bored and it was
tion. Stressful times are used as an excuse
on. One couple after another, airing their dirty laundry for
to further break down the relationship.
all the world to take in. Entertainment at its finest.
Since there is so little trust, there is no
As each couple stood up there and tried to prove that
support so each person carries their stress
the other person was the Devil himself, I found it interest-
as their own, and eventually resents the
ing, and sad. These same two people had stood in front
other for the situation being someone’s
of their families and friends and declared their everlasting
fault. Happy times are reasons to get away
love for each other. They had shared laughs and dates
from each other, because joy cannot be
and meals and beds. They started families, hugged,
shared together.
smiled, and at one point, really loved each other. Via
It’s just so sad. Make no mistake – you may
some course or another, they eventually found them-
have every reason in the world to be angry
selves standing in front of a judge trying to prove that
with your spouse, or to not trust him/her, or to find them unbelievably hard to argue with. I get that. However, you didn’t arrive at that
I theorize that it’s the greatest asset to a marriage, and when used improperly, it’s the most damaging.
point overnight, nor are you going to change it overnight. What would your world look like if you woke up and prayed, “My goodness, I am the most wretched of sinners. I deserve so very little, but I am so lucky to have this spouse of mine. Today I will show him/her the love of God.” Do you think your day might be a little different? If you approached a random phone call with him/her and simply oozed happiness and a sincere apprecia-
they were so much better than the other person. How does that happen? How do two people eventually
tion for taking a few minutes to talk to you? What if, in the middle of the same old argument, you
find themselves in such a God-awful predicament? Want
simply said, “You know what? I don’t think you’re
to hear some seriously profound marriage advice from
right, but I value YOU more than being proven
a guy that doesn’t know the first thing about marriage
right myself. So I’ll just let it go and say
counseling? Of course you do. They ended up there
I love you.”
because of PERSPECTIVE. I theorize that it’s the greatest asset to a marriage, and
What if you simply went through the exercise of approaching situations and
when used improperly, it’s the most damaging. It’s what
changing your perspective? The “issues”
brings two people together, and unfortunately, it’s also
that have harmed your marriage will still
the element that often times will be part of their demise.
be there, but the way you view them will
You meet a person and begin a relationship with them.
change. Over time, you’ll see them for
Every situation is approached with positivity, compassion,
what they are: pride, anger, selfishness,
and patience. The things that they do in the relationship
etc. If you can identify the sin, it can be
are fascinating and quirky and simply beautiful. The time
fixed. And you can even help your spouse
spent together is approached from an angle of excite-
with that sin! Why? Because you love him/
ment, and appreciation, and gratitude. Even arguments
her, and it’s your duty to support and help
are handled with the thought, “I love you so much, but
your spouse when they are struggling with
this really is bothering me. I’m going to give you an op-
sin. You sin, we sin, everyone sins. See it
portunity to clear the air and then I’m going to forgive
for what it is – it’s not a character flaw that
you.” Stressful times are opportunities for growth where
you must expose and confront about. It’s
each person looks to each other for support, and it brings
a cry for help, and if you approach it with
the couple closer. Happy times are shared, because when
compassion and a humble heart, you’ll see
one is happy, he or she wants to be with the person that
the change you’re after because of your
makes them the happiest. The list could go on and on.
reflection of God’s love.
At the same time, the wrong perspective can take you down a much darker road. Relationship quirks are annoying and exhausting. Time spent together is stressful, be-
And that way, you won’t end up on Divorce Court. There’s some perspective for ya.
30 EXPLORE it! LIVE IT! The REAL Kendall County.
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WINE
how Bending Branch winery put the Hill country on the world’s wine map By Tom Geoghegan TGeoghegan@boernewineco.com
34 EXPLORE it! LIVE IT! The REAL Kendall County.
F
or those of us who remember the early days
difficulties in growing any crop in Texas, but especially
Wine Company the night before. They were celebrating
of the modern Texas wine industry, we had a
grapes. Despite all of their efforts, this small vineyard
the installation of the unit and when I asked, they replied
definite problem being taken seriously by the
succumbed to the intense heat of the summer of 2011.
they had just installed a very hi-tech piece of equip-
world’s wine community, and especially in the
Currently lying fallow, it will be eventually re-planted and
ment at the Bending Branch winery; the very first for the
continue the cycle of life that is grape growing.
state…talk about a small world.
United States. California had a pretty good head start, and with the added momentum of the Judgment of
There is something magical about driving through the
A few years ago Bob and John experimented with a
Paris results in 1976, never really looked back. Texas,
vineyards as we hit the top of the hill and see the main
process called cryo-maceration for their red wines. The
Oregon, and Washington all started their modern phase
plantings. The total property consists of 56 acres, with 16
goal was to extract more of the color agents, flavor, and
of wine history about the same time, but for a variety of
acres now planted to vine, and new plots being devel-
tannins from the grapes. Traditional wine making tech-
reasons, the latter two states pulled ahead of us in terms
oped for the first ever Charbono and Sagrantino planted
niques generally extract only 40% of these components.
of acreage and acclaim.
in Texas. The majority of the vineyards are hilltop, which
Their experiments with the cryo method added only
So with October being Texas wine month, I thought it
allows for more airflow, and also offers a better degree
another 25% extraction. Then they read about the
might be interesting to touch on the local winery that has
of frost protection. Bob and John had tinkered with the
European technology called “Flash Détente” which
really helped put the Texas wineries onto the front stage
idea of winemaking here for several years, and while they
had been around the E.U for almost 20 years, but
of world winemaking. That winery is our friends at Bend-
looked for a suitable site, they decided to take a fresh
was relatively new to the U.S. with only 5 in the entire
ing Branch in Comfort. To say they’re on a roll is quite the
look at grapes for Texas.
country. After researching the technology, they became
understatement, especially in light of their recent critical
Working up a spreadsheet, they compiled their “pro-
convinced this was the next level for them to aspire to.
acclaim in the press, and wine competitions, not only in
file” for varietals that would work in our climate. Their
This technology extracts almost 100% of all the “good
local wine competitions like the San Antonio Stock Show,
requirements included late bud break, later harvest date
stuff” ( a rarely used winemaking term) by heating the
Houston Livestock Show, Dallas Morning News competi-
window, drought-resistant, heat tolerant, best color/tan-
skins for a short time, then passing them into a vacuum
tion and the TexSom events, but national events like the
nic structure (for their red program), and lastly, a varietal
chamber which literally pops them open, and allows for
San Francisco International Wine Competition.
that would make great wine. The first 12 types soon grew
almost complete extraction.
Kathy and I headed out one beautiful Friday morning
to 16 different varietals, with Tanat, Picpoul Blanc, and
recently to meet Dr. Robert Young, patriarch of this family
Souzao showing the most promise (and winning the
run winery. In hindsight, I should have been more aware
most awards).
of the Texas harvest schedule (visitor tip #1: try NOT to
Each block of the master vineyard is impeccably laid
visit a winery during the harvest season. It’s an incredibly
out with great attention to detail on sun orientation,
busy time, running from dawn till dusk straight through
irrigation systems, and a variety of trellising techniques.
until all the grapes have been picked, crushed and put
Seeing vines that date back to the initial planting in
into tank). But Dr. Young was most gracious with his time
2009 all the way through today show the spirit of exper-
and sharing his insights into Texas winemaking. We met
imentation, a strong science background, and the ability
Dr. Young (“Bob”) in the tasting room (thank you again
to think outside of the box; the ultimate expression
Dana and Linda for your gracious hospitality that day),
of south Texas terroir: Por Que No! I hadn’t ever seen
and after a quick overview of the wines and different tiers
head-pruned vines in Texas (I don’t get out much), and
for pricing, it was off to the vineyards.
the effect was quite beautiful, probably the most natural
For a winery that was conceived in 2009, they’ve devel-
way for wines to grow. There were also plenty of trellis-
Their goal from day one has been providing the best grapes to make the best wine they can.
oped a lot of history in a very short amount of time. First
ing using VSP (vertical shoot positioning) to route the
stop was the site of the original homestead. The early
vines and grape clusters, and even a new variation on
plot was a land grant after the war with Mexico in 1836 to
the head pruned technique they refer to as the “Stairway
Christian Johns and his family, who built the original cabin
to Heaven” variant. It’s always nice to meet a winemaking
which is very, very good, will move into the fantastic
in 1840, and then added on in the 1860s. The winery
family with a sense of humor.
category. And in the true spirit of the Texas wine industry,
itself is located a few miles outside of Comfort. It doesn’t
About halfway thru the vineyard tour, we headed past
The early tests suggest that their red wine program,
Bob and John are offering to share this technology free
take much imagination to envision how desolate this part
the current winery production facilities, and saw one
for the next vintage with other local wineries interested
of Texas was back then, with Comfort being founded
very impressive piece of vineyard equipment: a custom
in exploring this new approach, then charging a contract
some 14 years later, and indians (not referring to the
made winery on wheels, and another first for Texas.
fee down the road if they are interested in continuing.
baseball team), the Comanches, who roamed the area.
It includes a sorting table and a crusher/destemmer
The unit sits at the site of the new, number three, wine
But now, it’s the updated, expanded, and modernized
installed on a trailer, which essentially brings the winery
production site that will give them even more room to
homestead for Bob’s daughter Alison, her husband John
directly into the vineyard site. It was being prepped for
work their magic with the vines.
Rivenburgh (both important parts of the family winemak-
the long tow to the High Plains AVA for the additional
ing team), their two children, Jackson and Chloe, and the
fruit that they source for their wines. No matter if it’s
and I proceeded to taste our way through the current of-
mandatory winery dogs: Oreo and Cazador.
their own estate fruit or sourced from their wide collec-
ferings. At the end of a very informative tasting with Dana
As we circled back past the tasting room and headed
tion of preferred growers, Bob and John want to see,
and Linda, we headed out with our fair share of bottles
up the hill to the vineyards, Bob pointed out that the site
sort, harvest and crush for themselves. Their goal from
to enjoy later. But as we headed back into Comfort, the
was actually the first winery production building; a simple
day one has been providing the best grapes to make
realization hit me that I was running out of space for Ben’s
structure built in 1920, where Bob and John made their
the best wine they can.
October issue of Explore magazine. Better to keep the
first wines. Heading up the road on the left, we saw what
Technology, science, and a lot of hands-on, labor
Stepping back into the cool of the tasting room, Kathy
publisher happy, and see if I can coax him into a second
Bob referred to as their “petting vineyard,” with very
intensive steps make for some spectacular wines. They’re
part of the article. There was still plenty of the story to
young vines that are easy to exhibit to tour groups. Here
looking to eventually max out their production at around
tell. How could I leave out the famous saddle trophy,
you could see the remnants of the juice cartons covering
6000 cases a year. Their yields average 1-4 tons of grapes
Susie and the tasting room, John and Sheema, the High
the base of the young plants.
per acre, unlike the volume wineries that average 8-12
Café, Mr. and Mrs. Carroll, and the wines themselves? I
tons; lower yields, generally much better wine.
sincerely hope you folks have enjoyed the story so far,
In the early years, some of the tour groups jokingly asked if they were growing orange juice. The actual
Next stop was the current production facility, with their
and will look forward to Part Deux.
answer was that it was part of the winery’s master plan for
own wine lab, and a barrel storage room…always a nice
sustainability. Using recycled juice cartons to cover the
place to be visiting when it’s 100 degrees outside, but
those hard working winery folks across the state, and
baby grape plants helps protect them from insect pests
a cool 58 degrees inside the barrel room. The sight of
support their efforts. The wines keep getting better at
and the small ground animals that love to nibble on the
all that wine stored in barrel to the ceiling is impressive
an incredible rate. Help that along by pulling a few corks
young shoots. When the plants have outgrown the need
enough, but the aromas take your breath away.
and literally enjoying the fruits of their labors. And I’m
for the early protection, the cardboard naturally bio-
And since this is Texas Wine Month, please remember
This was technically the last stop but I couldn’t resist
sure the Young and Rivenburgh families wouldn’t mind
degrades itself. From electric golf carts to cork-recycling
asking Dr. Young about his newest piece of equipment
a bit if more than a few of those bottles had a Bending
programs, environmentally friendly glass bottles, rainwa-
from Italy…their brand spanking new Flash Détente unit
Branch label.
ter collection tanks, custom drip irrigation, using native
from the Della Toffola Group. The technicians had literally
stone and wood from the property, and more are all part
just finished installing the semi-tractor rig size piece of
of the master sustainability plan.
machinery the night before. And no, I’m not all know-
Moving up the hillside, the next small vineyard on
ing about everything in the world of wine. I had sold the
the right-hand side is a stark reminder of the immense
technician’s group a box of nice cigars from The Boerne
October 2014
Salud Y’all
www.hillcountryexplore.com
35
LIFE
SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT By Paul Wilson
Who doesn’t want to be happy? I am not talking about some kind of cheap narcissistic, materialistic-fueled substitute for true happiness. I mean, who doesn’t want to enjoy a truly peaceful, joyful, and fulfilling kind of life that brings enormous amounts of satisfaction throughout the years they live on this earth? I’ve never met anybody who doesn’t want to enjoy a happy life. Even the most broken person wants to be happy again if they could just figure out how to put all the pieces of their life back together. The challenge is figuring out exactly how one goes about doing that. At the risk of sounding trite, I think I may have found the secret key to the kind of life we all desire. Interestingly, it is neither a secret nor a key. It’s something every one of us does thousands of times each day. Let me explain. Lawyers spend their day thinking about law. Financial planners spend theirs thinking about finances. Doctors, about health care. As a Life Coach, I spend a lot of my time thinking about life. Much of what I do each day is about trying to help people think through their life. The subjects of life and living are often the focus of my attention. Truth be told, I am almost always mulling over some intriguing or ironic dimension of this experience we call “life.” Introverts like me are not shy or withdrawn like so many people presume. We are just otherwise “occupied.” We are often consumed with thoughts about the deep things of life and getting a kick out of how extroverts are playing right into the stereotypes. Extroverts, watch out for the introvert’s smirk while you go on and on with your gregarious behavior. It’s not the face of admiration of your confident and outgoing way. It’s more like a look of amusement. Just thought you should know. This fascination with life stems from my insatiable curiosity. I am interested in just about everything: people to discover, places to explore and experiences to enjoy. Sit me down in front of the television for an episode of “How Do They Do It” and I am mesmerized. Yeah, I’m one of those people who enjoy watching documentaries. This insatiable curiosity breeds a very inquisitive nature in me. It is especially true when it comes to human behavior. The ways we act and why we act the ways we do fascinate me. As curious as I am, I was also born with a healthy dose of skepticism in my veins. This combination of curiosity and skepticism keeps me cautious. I don’t buy something just because somebody says so. I am turned off by overly simplistic solutions for complex issues. From book titles to self-help promises, I am suspicious of cheap sales pitches.
36 EXPLORE it! LIVE IT! The REAL Kendall County.
• •
The 3 Keys to a Happy Marriage. I’m thinking,
pay attention to our thoughts. If everything in our life be-
“Yeah right.”
gins with a thought, we better be thinking the right kind
The 5 Steps to Financial Freedom. I’m thinking, “Oh brother.”
•
The 10 Habits of Personal Fulfillment. I’m thinking, “It’s not that simple.”
•
The 7 Secrets to Sexual Ecstasy. I’m thinking, “That’s a bunch of…okay, I’m curious.”
It Couldn’t Be That Easy So imagine the tension I felt inside of me when after a long season of some serious thinking about life, I concluded that there were three “keys” to the life all of us
If our choices are being influenced by a lot of lousy thinking, we are going to end up doing a lot of stupid stuff in life.
of thoughts in the first place. Our thinking determines everything. Just stop to think about that. Everything we end up doing throughout our entire life begins with a thought! If our choices are being influenced by a lot of lousy thinking, we are going to end up doing a lot of stupid stuff in life. Lousy thinking comes in all shapes and sizes. Take your pick. •
Negative thinking. Critical and pessimistic thoughts that spoil our best ambitions before we even have a chance to see
desire. This went against my very nature. An explanation
what we are capable of doing.
of how life works just couldn’t be as simple as three of
•
anything!
Ignorant thinking. The lack the proper information to know what to
Could it?
tion. Taking no action is an action. It is the choice not to
do. Or, worse yet, arrogantly ignoring that informa-
Yet every test I put up against these three essential ac-
do anything. In some situations, doing nothing is wise.
tion.
tivities of life kept validating my thesis. I could not come
However, in most cases, it is the choice not to act that
up with a single situation or circumstance where these
many people end up regretting.
•
One of the most destructive forces out there,
I can’t think of an exception where the pattern of our
three primary exercises didn’t play a pivotal role in the
insecure thinking allows fear and a poor self-image
life doesn’t follow the “formula” of thinking, choosing,
way we live our lives.
to define us rather than the truth of our great
doing.
I have been mulling them over and over from every possible angle. I wanted to be able to certify their validity
I Could Do That in My Sleep
before I ever shared them with anybody else. When I decided this topic would be the subject of my next book,
potential. •
Foolish thinking. When we are determined to do just the opposite
All of us can think of an activity where we say, “Oh, I
of what we know – or somebody warned us – to be
do that without even thinking.” That is not really true.
I really needed to make sure I was right.
Insecure thinking.
right, good and best.
Drum roll, please.
Even those activities that we say we no longer think
For the very first time in a public forum, I am now
about while we are doing them are the result of thinking.
Self-absorbed thoughts completely consumed in
prepared to share the three “keys” to living well with the
The most routine activities of our life began as a thought
what’s best for only ourselves regardless of what it
readers of Explore.
at one time or another. Through years of practice, they
•
Selfish thinking.
will mean for the good of others.
Are you ready?
continue as thoughts that take place on a deeply subcon-
I have concluded that everything in our life is ultimately
scious level of our brain. It’s the thousands of repetition of
Thinking that demonstrates the inability to adjust
those activities that afford us the mental dexterity to do
to change and accept responsibility for one’s ac-
them while we are doing something else.
tions.
determined by the three primary exercises of: •
THINKING
•
CHOOSING
•
DOING
•
Immature thinking.
For example, most of us brush our teeth two or three times a day (or we should!). While we are taking care
Everything in our life is the product of thinking, choos-
of this important daily routine, many of us are checking
You will always end up making a lot of poor choices in life if you begin with lousy thinking.
ing and doing. And I mean, everything! I can’t find an
emails, perusing Facebook, dressing kids for school, tying
exception. Everything we do in our life begins with a
our tie, rehearsing an upcoming pr esentation for an
through living our lives in a wise and healthy manner, we
thought, which leads to a choice, which, in turn, results in
important meeting, working through a new idea, hum-
have to start out on the right foot. It all begins between
some kind of an action.
ming a song or driving to work. yep! I once watched a
our ears.
Think about it.
If we hope to know the peace and joy that comes
guy brush his teeth in the car next to me while stopped at
Without risk of overstatement, I believe I can confi-
a red light. Rinsed right into his coffee cup! Honest truth.
dently say our thoughts are the first key to the life we’ve
Now, long before we honed this prowess for early
•
Getting up in the morning.
•
Going to bed at night.
morning multi-tasking, there was a day when we were
ultimately accomplish begins. Those thoughts influence
•
Brushing our teeth.
children trying to hold the toothbrush with one hand,
our choices. The choices we make determine the actions
•
Changing the oil in our car.
while squeezing the tube of toothpaste with the other. It
we take toward every single one of our ambitions.
•
Using the restroom.
required enormous amounts of concentration to do it suc-
•
The color palette we use in decorating our home.
cessfully. It took weeks of practice, with messy globs of
complete has to do with their thinking. They are asked
•
The route we take to work.
toothpaste smeared all over the sink before we got better
to keep a journal of their thoughts for several weeks.
•
Helping somebody in need.
at it. And then little by little, with each passing year, we
The purpose is to identify the lousy messages that influ-
•
Where we go for vacation.
became so proficient at brushing our teeth that we were
ence their thinking. In the end, those thoughts have an
•
The tie we choose to wear with our suit.
able to accomplish other activities at the exact same time
enormous impact on the choices they make and the steps
•
Honoring an exercise routine.
we were taking care of this important daily ritual.
they take (or don’t take) toward living the life they want. I
•
The words we use in front of our children.
always wanted. Our thinking is where everything we
As a Life Coach, one of the exercises I invite clients to
But think about it. It’s a thought that alerts you to
can’t help them get to where they want to go or become who they want to be until we figure out the thinking that stands in their way.
•
The person we marry.
resume brushing after reading an urgent email caused
•
The groceries we buy.
you to pause. It’s a thought that directs you to tuck your
•
The gasoline we put in our car.
toothbrush between your cheek and your teeth while
•
Sticking with a diet.
helping your son tie his shoes. It’s a thought that tells
•
The architect we select to design our home.
you to tilt your head slightly backwards while you discuss
So, let me ask you, “What are YOU thinking?”
•
The job offer we accept.
dinner plans with your spouse so the toothpaste doesn’t
(Well, look at the time. I think I need to wrap up this
•
The faith we adopt.
dribble out onto your socks. It is a thought – a completely
discussion. If the editor of Explore should grant me the
•
Resolving an argument.
subconscious one – that reminds you to spit it all back
opportunity to write future articles, perhaps I can tell you
•
The programs we watch on television.
into the sink instead of into your shoe in your hurry to fin-
more about the other two “keys” to a happy life. Let him
•
The destination of a date night with our spouse.
ish dressing for work.
know if you’re interested!)
•
The plan we adopt for our financial security.
•
The time we get started on mowing the lawn.
You cannot live a positive life while thinking negative thoughts.
This exact same scenario is true about everything we do while multi-tasking. From choosing music while driving a car to fixing dinner while talking on the phone, it all
From mundane to monumental, every one of these activities begins with a thought…which leads to a choice…
requires thinking. I have thought about it long and hard. I can’t find an exception to the rule that everything we do in life begins
which results in an action.
with a thought. Have I mentioned…everything?
No Action is Action
So….
I know what you’re thinking. What about those times when we choose not to do anything? Well, that is an ac-
October 2014
If that is true, it would be extremely important that we
www.hillcountryexplore.com
37
I just went to see Dr. Hawkins yesterday for an exam and cleaning. I was promptly seen, the procedures were done painlessly and in a timely manner with the latest equipment. My necessary dental work was explained fully to me. Everyone in the office greeted me warmly and made me feel special. - Elaine
As a Master in the Academy of General Dentistry, Dr. Chet Hawkins posses the highest level of education recognized for a dentist. As a graduate of the Pankey Institute, he’s had the finest post-doctoral training in the world. “I want to establish a master plan and then develop a blueprint for my patients’ long-term care,” he explains. “We want to solve the causes of the problems before we do anything else to their teeth. Then we can rebuild or repair with confidence that the fix will last as long as possible. We also educate our patients about other health issues related to oral disease. There is a connection between periodontal disease and heart disease that people need to know about.” Dr. Hawkins and his wife, Deby, have been residents of Boerne for 7 years and are excited to serve the residents of Boerne.
We have been going to the Hawkins Dental Office for 25 years. This office is far superior to the average dental office. Their exceptional practice is due to their sincere desire to provide the very best service to their patients. They maintain the latest technology and genuinely care about the welfare of the people who they serve. I cannot find the words to express the high regard that my family and I hold for this dental practice. - Gene Pleasant, friendly staff. No wait. Dr. Hawkins listens to your issues and then provides clear solutions. Great dentist. Also, great hygienist. Overall, great experience. - Cindy
Master in the Academy of General Dentistry • 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE 806 N. Main St. • Boerne • 830-249-7870 • www.drchethawkins.com
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720 N. Main St. | Boerne, TX 78006 | (830) 249-3000 | Fax: (830) 331-2883 | Office Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30am - 5:00pm | Weekends by Appointment
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38 EXPLORE it! LIVE IT! The REAL Kendall County.
12th Annual
October 17-19, 2014 Boerne Professional Artists (BPA) will host their premier Art Show & Sale in the Cana Ballroom of St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church on October 17 - 19 this year. With more than 50 talented artists participating, it will be the largest in the 12 year history of this event. Works of art will include paintings in oils, acrylics, pastels and watercolor; photography, pottery, jewelry, glass, reliefs and mixed media.
S c h e d u le of E v e n t s … WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15 - 16, 7:30 AM - 5 PM En Plein Aire artists will be painting outdoors throughout the city of Boerne and its parks, recreational and heritage centers. Finished works of the open air artists will be offered in a silent auction at Friday's Preview Opening of the Invitational.
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 17, 7 - 9 PM Additionally, featured artists will conduct a series of “how-to” lectures and demonstrations throughout Saturday afternoon. This elegant venue in the heart of Boerne also offers breathtaking northern Hill Country views, easy accessibility and plenty of free parking. The prestigious Oil Painters of America (OPA) has, again, endorsed BPA’s two full-day en plein aire “Paint Out”, the Wednesday/Thursday prelude to the Invitational. En plein aire is a French term that translates to ‘open air’, so we’ll be seeing as many as 40 artists at work mid-week in the open air prior to the Invitational. The finished works of the “Paint Out” artists will be offered in a silent auction at the opening night preview event in the Ballroom.
Preview and Opening Night Meet the artists and enjoy their fine art display with a backdrop of live music, wine and hors d’oeuvres in the beautiful Cana Ballroom.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 18, 10 AM - 8 PM The Texas Hill Country Invitational will be open to the public with artists in attendance to describe the works they have on display. Artist lectures and demonstrations will be held from noon - 5 pm.
SUNDAY: OCTOBER 19, 11AM - 3 PM The finale of the 2014 Texas Hill Country Invitational Visitors should make their reservations now to stay in the beautiful Hill Country town of Boerne, so you don’t miss a single day of this spectacular event! Special hotel rates are available at Comfort Inn and Suites Texas Hill Country, Fairfield Inn & Suites and Americas Best Value Inn. Just use the code word "ART" when you call.
www.BoerneProfessionalArtists.com
October 17 - 19, 2014
to be held in the elegant Cana Ballroom of St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Church, just off Main Street at 202 Kronkosky
Schedule of Events Wednesday & Thursday, October 15 - 16, 7:30 am - 5 pm En Plein Aire artists will be painting outdoors throughout the city of Boerne and its parks, recreational and heritage centers. Finished works of the open air artists will be offered in a silent auction at Friday's Preview Opening of the Invitational.
Friday, October 17, 7 - 9 pm Preview and Opening Night Meet the artists and enjoy their fine art display with a backdrop of live music, wine and hors d’oeuvres in the beautiful Cana Ballroom.
Saturday, October 18, 10 am - 8 pm The Texas Hill Country Invitational will be open to the public with artists in attendance to describe the works they have on display. Artist lectures and demonstrations will be held from noon - 5 pm.
Sunday: October 19, 11am - 3 pm The finale of the 2014 Texas Hill Country Invitational Visitors should make their reservations now to stay in the beautiful Hill Country town of Boerne, so you don’t miss a single day of this spectacular event! Special hotel rates are available at Comfort Inn and Suites Texas Hill Country, Fairfield Inn & Suites and Americas Best Value Inn. Just use the code word "ART" when you call.
Attention JEEPLE's All Jeeps Welcome BENEFITTING
K IC , T R Z ES T I PR 80
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Heartland Children's Home
O CO , M R TR E AP O S M E S ON AT IN G , CO S TU K ID & OF BOU E D N C E FO R T H FO O CR , AF T BEER , WINE
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Rehabilitate in Boerne, One Step Closer to Home
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1440 River Road • Boerne, Texas 78006 • 830.816.5095
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42 EXPLORE it! LIVE IT! The REAL Kendall County.
Premier Custom Home Builder in the Texas Hill Country For over 40 years, KCN has been building beautiful custom homes of all sizes in Boerne, Comfort, Bandera, Castroville and throughout the Texas Hill Country. Our commitment to excellence is reflected not just in the quality of our products, but also in the superior level of customer service we provide during the building process. Our reputation for honesty and integrity, combined with our commitment to deliver excellent quality, expert craftsmanship, and customer service, has afforded us the opportunity to build many long lasting relationships with our clients. In fact, we are now building a home for our 31st repeat customer.
830-816-5202 920 East Blanco Road Boerne, TX 78006 www.kcnbuilders.com
CALL 210.912.8221 FOR INFO
203 Shadywood $234,500
Recently renovated 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home on .25 acres in the heart of Boerne and close to shopping and schools
Bluebonnet Realty October 2014
www.hillcountryexplore.com
43
COMMUNITY
A WORLD OF
ENTERTAINMENT
MUSIC, COMEDY, AND AND ORIGINAL THEATRICAL EXPERIENCE, COMES TO BOERNE
What started as an overnight YouTube sensation is now a world-renowned theatrical phenomenon! The VOCA PEOPLE have landed (and performed) in every major city throughout the world. Their credits include New York City’s 2012 Lortel award for best “Theatrical Experience,” a prize first claimed by the Blue Man Group. Recently finishing their 3-week engagement at the largest performing arts festival in the world, the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the cast of VOCA PEOPLE stretches impromptu to an intergalactic level. The storyline begins as the VOCA PEOPLE land on the unfamiliar plant, Earth and sadly discover that their precious spaceship charger – musical energy – has been zapped. Slowly, the VOCA PEOPLE learn the strange habitants, habits and music of planet Earth, and with the help of the audience, musically energize their unique spaceship. Creator, Producer and Artistic Director Lior Kalfo is an awardwinning comedian who created this invigorating, fresh, high-octane hilarious show that is bursting with electrifying energy. Under his reigns, the cast excels in creating dynamically different characters that are mesmerizing and wholly entertaining. Musical Director and Arranger Shai Fishman has developed a cast that constantly and consistently blows the mind of the audience with their impressive vocal skills, landing on every pitch with pinpoint precision and creating simply gorgeous harmonies. Hana Yefet’s clever costumes clad the entire cast in white suits over white full body spandex suits with the face cut out. Paired with the white makeup and vibrant red lipstick, the characters of the VOCA PEOPLE are similar to humans, while being completely blank canvases. If you love music, comedy, and audience participation, this is the show for you! Quirky, playful, imaginative, and fun, this eightmember vocal ensemble (chicly dressed as intergalactic aliens) reproduces the sounds of an entire orchestra with an amazing variety of beat box vocals and a cappella singing. Their 90-minute non-stop show will journey through our own music history – from prehistoric to present day – including rock, pop, classical, blues, rap, and movie themes. Great fun for all ages! The VOCA PEOPLE are friendly aliens looking for friendly hill-country residents to energize their visit to Boerne, Texas - their second performance in Texas EVER. The VOCA PEOPLE have been watched live by over 1 million viewers worldwide, have had over 50 million YouTube hits, and there are only 1,000 seats available for their single stop in Boerne, Texas. At the time of writing, 600 of those seats are already sold! Jimmy Fallon describes their performance as “The coolest show ever!” while the New York Times simply states, “Great. A knockout!” The accolades continue with Broadwayworld.com, “Pure talent, humor and originality make VOCA PEOPLE an event not to be missed. It’s an entirely unique and overwhelming experience that leaves audiences raving long after the curtain closes.” Set aside Thursday, October 23, at 7:30pm, for an evening of entertainment at Champion Auditorium, as Boerne Performing Arts presents this incredible vocal group! As VOCA PEOPLE state, “Life is music, and music is life!” They couldn’t say it any better. For information and tickets to Boerne Performing Arts’ exciting upcoming performances, including VOCA PEOPLE, please visit BoernePerformingArts.com, or call 830331-9079.
44 EXPLORE it! LIVE IT! The REAL Kendall County.
121 Esser Rd. $334,500
RARE FIND! This Baker Custom Home is a 3/2 on 1 acre in BISD. Walking distance to the river, jogging trails, high school, and shopping. RV hook up and plenty of land for a pool. Newly renovated and move in ready. MLS # 1073735
437 Stone Creek $249,000
Totally renovated. New ceramic tile and laminate and carpeting throughout! Freshly painted in neutral colors. New stainless oven/range, dishwasher and fresh landscaping in front yard. Oversized back yard (lot size is 1/3 ac!) Room for swimming pool, garden, putting green!!! Close to walking trail and downtown Boerne. Reduced for quick sale!
108 Northview Lane • $625,000
Majestic hill country view for miles and miles on this 8.36 acre gem. This custom 4/2.5 home is a personal slice of paradise ready for the taking! Just some of the goodies include a park-like setting, controlled access, heated pool, outdoor speakers, and an outdoor porch with fireplace. No city taxes, but 1 mile to 1-10 and 3 miles to downtown Boerne, TX. Do not let this rare find get away!
203 Shadywood $234,500
Recently renovated 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home on .25 acres close to downtown Boerne, shopping and schools
318 Hoskins Trail • $549,000
Waterfront property in River Mountain Ranch with private river access! Custom 3/3.5 home built with views of the Guadalupe from the master bedroom, family room, and balcony. Outdoor balcony has surround sound speakers runs the length of the home with fireplace and surround sound speakers. Private road on the property going down to the river. 3.57 acres. MLS #1077562
angela@smvtexas.com www.boernetexashomes.com
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Bluebonnet Realty
FITNESS
THE EXPLORE
FITNESS CHALLENGE
RETURNS
Cathy De La Rosa Challenge coach and resident fitness guru.
By Cathy De La Rosa
In the fall of 2007, I met with my doctor for my yearly checkup and he (nicely) suggested that I might want to lose some weight. It had been a bat crazy year adopting two 9 year old girls from foster care, 7 months apart, not to mention the three boys I already had. Somehow, taking care of a zillion living, breathing things, I had dropped to the bottom of the to-do list. Then he went a step further and offered to be an accountability partner, to have me come back in 3 months for a weigh in with him. This was October. I left his office that day and started walking and have not really stopped doing anything physical since then. I saw him in January 20 lbs lighter (yes, through the “holiday season!) and then I came back in April with another almost 15 lbs gone. By that time, I was feeling successful and we both agreed I was doing ok on my own. As my fitness journey played out over the past few years, I’ve learned a lot and, more importantly, I’ve learned so much about myself, too. I’ve shared and encouraged others to follow their own journeys based on what’s worked for me. It’s kind of old-fashioned today but it works... it’s a lifestyle change. Basically, I learned to eat
better, eat a little less and move a lot more. Seven years later, well, I’d say it works. My body is stronger, leaner and more fit than it was in my 20’s. What’s been on my heart for months was an idea to throw something out on my Facebook page. I wanted to work with 2 people using that same approach; being that accountability partner to hopefully motivate them to live in freedom from all of the crazy diet dogma that’s in the world today. Life is to be lived and enjoyed, all in balance and proportion. Not spent living diet to diet and feeling defeated. I took my little brain child off to Mr. Publisher of this lovely magazine and threw it all out on the table. From that point, it kinda exploded from my vision of 2 people to his suggestion I could handle 4. WHAT??? Then, the challenge of selecting those 4. The same 90 day accountability I had in mind and the same opportunity to write about our adventures and share it with you, my 2.5 readers. And Houston, we have lift off. We’re about to embark on a unique adventure, the 5 of us. If all goes well, they will have new goals, achieve-
Ron Cisneros
ments, mental attitudes, and be on their way to living a healthy lifestyle that’s sustainable for well, life. Not a 6 week diet plan then back to the old drill. A lifestyle change. They’re gonna be moving more by finding activities they enjoy and want to pursue. And yay, all are game for running so we have a group activity planned for that. I will be working hard alongside them as I’m in the midst of training for my second marathon in December so I have my own goals too. Special thanks to the Boerne YMCA for offering sponsorships for all of our lovely contestants during the challenge (oh and me too), to have full access of all gym activities. My job will be to hold them accountable for the things they’ve shared with me, encourage them (or as one of my friends says... she loves my pushy attitude ;)) cheerlead them on, offer tips and advice and get in their face if I have to. However, at the end of the day each contestant is the one doing it. Oh and whatever you do, if you see them eating, don’t ask them if it’s “on their diet” ‘cause we aren’t doing diets and that my friends, is total freedom.
Elizabeth Archilla
THE VICTIMS
Lara Johndrow
46 EXPLORE it! LIVE IT! The REAL Kendall County.
Stuart Chapman
Why have you accepted this challenge? In the last three years I have lost 89 pounds; mostly through modifications in my diet and walking. I have, however, hit the proverbial wall and I am struggling to lose the additional weight I need to lose. Honestly, I can do better. I still eat a lot of junk food. My exercise consists solely of walking and, as such, I can walk a long time but I can barely lift a paper clip. I need some guidance; someone to kick my butt and teach me how to improve my diet and exercise. What do you hope to achieve by the end of the challenge? Obviously I want to weigh less. But I want to be stronger and healthier too. I don’t just want to look good, I want to feel good. I want the opposite sex to stare at me the same way they stare at Ben Schooley. And when I’m done, I want to start a weight loss support group at my church so that I may help others in the same way that God has helped me. What scares you most about it? I saw Cathie’s arms. I think they’re bigger and stronger than my own. I’m afraid of her. On a serious note, what scares me most is the thought that I might grow complacent with my previous success. I’m not out of the woods. I do not want to quit. What will you miss most about your life before the challenge? Nothing. Not a D@## thing! I will not miss my size 38 jeans. I will not miss my pot belly. I will not miss my loose skin. I will not miss my laziness. Which bad habits will you be forced to break? Did you know that a serving size of Blue Bell Ice Cream is 2.86 ounces? I thought that was one bite. I thought a serving size of any kind of ice cream was whatever I could mash into my largest soup bowl. How does one eat only 2.86 ounces of ice cream? Brenham, we have a problem.
What has kept you from improving your health and fitness up until now? Food is my little “g” god. When I’m stressed, I eat. When I’m anxious, I eat. When I’m down in the dumps, I eat. When I’m bored, I eat. I’d take up drinking but that has a host of other problems. And I like my teeth so meth isn’t an option either. I need to replace my little g god with my big G God. Donuts? Beer? Late night snacks? What is the one vice that will be difficult for you to kick? That would be a tie between sweet tea and ice cream. Why are you willing to make this commitment now? I’ve been climbing a huge mountain. The summit is in sight. I’m tired and I’m having trouble finding the motivation to finish the climb. I need help. I want to succeed. I believe if I make myself accountable to others, I will find the spark I need to reach the summit. How will you celebrate on day 91? Nobody in Kendall County, other than my wife, has ever seen me without a shirt. Maybe when I reach day 91, every reader of Explore will see me without a shirt…unless Ben thinks it might hurt readership. I promise - I don’t look like Sasquatch. I do look embarrassingly pre-pubescent. Maybe Ben can use the magic of photoshop and give me some manly chest hair…and a tattoo. Maybe.
Why have you accepted this challenge? I accepted this 90 day fitness challenge to be pushed out of this little (or maybe not so little) comfort zone I’ve built for myself in my weight loss attempts.I have a long road ahead of me to be healthy, fit and strong. Putting myself out there for all to watch on this 90 day venture is intimidating...but this extreme level of accountability is just the motivation I need to stay on track. Being guided to find what’s been missing in my ongoing weight loss and fitness “programs” is another aspect I’m looking forward to.... What do you hope to achieve by the end of the challenge? When we wrap up the final days of these upcoming 90 days, I hope to find that I have improved a few things. First, my eating habits. I’m looking forward to have a better grasp and understanding of what I need to eat. I don’t typically have a bad diet, but after checking out the “Lose-It” App...it appears I don’t consume enough calories....How often do you hear that you get to eat more while on the path to losing fat?! Next up is being more physically fit and strong. With that, I’m looking forward to building up endurance for those long runs I have a love/hate relationship with... Also tied in with this is decreasing the chances of injury that I seemingly deal with about every six months. Most of that can be attributed to being overweight. Which brings me to the part that I can’t wait to see as a result of improving the previously stated areas....the weight loss. I weigh as much as I did when I was ready to deliver my second child. That is ridiculous. I do not enjoy clothing shopping, because honestly...nothing fits nicely. Not even what’s designed and created for the big chunky monkey’s like myself. So, with the weight loss, comes shopping for clothing that I actually want to wear. If nothing scares you, tell us why you’re so confident: I’m confident that I won’t give up...I ran across this again shortly after I was informed that I was selected as one for the four.... “You’re off to great places, today is your day. Your mountain is waiting, so get on your way.” - Dr. Seuss What has kept you from improving your health and fitness up until now? Impatience with not seeing the changes I want to see as quickly as I want to see them....So, I allow the mindset of “what’s the point”....come up with believable excuses(no time, too tired) to not get out there because why would I want to tell people who ask that I’m tired of no results?
October 2014
Donuts? Beer? Late night snacks? What is the one vice that will be difficult for you to kick? Late night snacks will definitely be the hardest to kick. My kid works at one of the local donut shops, so yeah. Donuts and kolaches may be a problem, but so far I’ve been good. Why are you willing to make this commitment now? This has a few parts to it....I saw a few candid photos of myself recently. I found that I am bigger than I “thought”. That is not being hard on myself, it’s just fact. I also am trying to encourage others to come out to run with me in a couch to 5k program. How many of you can TRULY say you’d be motivated to run that extra lap or pick up the pace by an overweight lady who certainly doesn’t fit the “mold” of a runner? Yeah, I’ve experienced the “looks”, the “once over’s” and even the disbelief when I show up to an event and the volunteer assumed I was a “walker”(hmm, is the new season of Walking Dead available?) and had to insist I was running. I’d like to be able to really and truly encourage, inspire and help others to get healthy and enjoy life....it’s time to step up the pace, raise the bar. Most importantly, I’m 35 years old. I’m a wife and mom. I want to set a good example for my kiddos and be healthy and able to keep up with my husband and kids when we head out for camping/hiking trips. It really takes part of the fun out when everyone has to wait for Mom because even though she runs, she’s out of breath and waaaaaaay behind...and of course, I want to run and play with my kids....not just sit on the side and always have to watch because I can’t keep up. It’s not to that point yet, but I don’t want it to ever get that way. Do you think you can actually make it? Or are you worried you’ll wuss out at day 37? Yes. I will make it through the 90 days. I’m a little worried about frustration, but with this whole being in the public eye and having Cathie guiding me along, I won’t wuss out :) How will you celebrate on day 91? I have no idea, actually. Most likely will do nothing special, but will be feeling pretty happy with the changes over the past few months and start mapping out my next steps to my long term fitness goals.
www.hillcountryexplore.com
47
Why have you accepted this challenge? Who wouldn’t want a chance to work with someone amazing, to get started on a new adventure that will change lives?! This goes way beyond me. This will change me, and I will in turn help to change my family! What do you hope to achieve by the end of the challenge? My goal is obviously to lose weight, but more than that, I hope to lose the way I think about food and exercise. Too often, I look at food and say, “I can eat that because I worked out,” or I don’t work out because, “I ate good food so I don’t need to.” I need to merge the two, not only for my health and well-being, but also so I can help my family get healthy as well. With three kids depending on me to feed them, their health is truly in my hands. What a disservice I have been doing to them, and to me! What scares you most about it? I am scared to change things too drastically and dramatically. I am scared that as much as I want to transform myself, that the cravings that are certain to come with a change that will happen will get the best of me. I need better willpower, no doubt!! Which bad habits will you be forced to break? Eating poorly because it’s easy. With kids, work, and going back to school, all meals usually are made based on simplicity. TV dinner, no problem. Microwave a few minutes, BAM, dinner! Also, I HATE cooking! Like, really hate it. When my husband works late, I work hard getting my mom to make dinner just so I don’t have to. I will be forced to do the cooking so that I stay on track, and help my family along the way. What has kept you from improving your health and fitness up until now? I wouldn’t say that there is any one thing that has kept me from working hard until now. I think there are a lot of things. It’s easy to eat like crap. It is much easier to warm up some frozen meal than it is to cook something better. It is cheaper to eat junk. I can go into the store and spend under $10 and feed my family of five processed junk, where it would cost a bit more to feed them better. Unfortunately, these people that live in my house are so used to the yucky stuff, they get weirded out when I do
try to toss in a little something healthy. So, that goes back to ease, because it is easier to feed them something I know they will eat rather than making them try things that are better for them. This will force us all, if they like it or not, to make better choices. Donuts? Beer? Late night snacks? What is the one vice that will be difficult for you to kick? Sweet tea, it’s the devil! I hate that I love it! I really can’t think of anything else that I will have a hard time giving up. Why are you willing to make this commitment now? Because I couldn’t come up with a good reason not to, and believe me, I tried to come up with something! Really though, I am not getting any younger. I am only 10 years younger than my dad was when he died after having a stroke. My uncle was not much older than me when he had his first heart attack. I feel like it has hit me hard over the last few months, that there is a chance that my kids could lose their mom if I don’t do something! I don’t want to miss one second of their sweet little lives! How will you celebrate on day 91? A bike ride with my kids, a run with a friend, dinner with my husband, all with a smaller pants size, a new way of eating, and a ton more confidence!
Why have you accepted this challenge? Ben Schooley told me there was free pizza if I accepted the challenge. Not really. There are two big reasons motivating me to make a change. 1). Heart disease runs rampant in my family. The family members who have been affected did not smoke, were not overweight, ate relatively healthy diets, and lived relatively healthy lifestyles. I want to be proactive in my fight against heart disease. This challenge will help eliminate excuses to help me intentionally and strategically take steps towards a healthy heart/life. 2). My sister once told me she would kill for my “Madonna arms.” I want to upgrade my Madonna arms and improve my strength, endurance, and stamina. What do you hope to achieve by the end of the challenge? I want a new routine where I am intentionally leading my family in a healthy lifestyle and steering them away from heart disease. Oh…and I want to get jacked. What scares you most about it? Two things. 1). The time commitment makes me nervous. I don’t have a lot of extra time. This will force me to be a better manager of my free time. 2). Cathie De La Rosa. Rumor on the street is Cathie is a scary trainer… in the “I’m gonna kick your tail into shape” kind of way. What will you miss most about your life before the challenge? My body not hurting and being in constant pain.
Which bad habits will you be forced to break? Making excuses will be the biggest habit I will be forced to break. Excuses have a tendency to run our lives. We can’t do what we want to do because of… (insert excuse here). We want to eat better, work out regularly, play a sport without dry heaving two minutes into the game, energy to play with our kids, etc. I am full of excuses. For the last many years, I have conveniently avoided an intentional healthy lifestyle that includes regular workouts and leafy foliage. This challenge has forcibly taken away my excuses and will give me the chance to create a new routine. What has kept you from improving your health and fitness up until now? Accountability. This would be someone to push me and challenge me to get better. My excuses are easier to overcome with someone else pushing me to achieve. Donuts? Beer? Late night snacks? What is the one vice that will be difficult for you to kick? As I type this, I am drinking a Dr. Pepper and eating pizza. Eeesh. Those are a couple of big difficulties I will need to get past. Why are you willing to make this commitment now? My wife and I have three boys with another child on the way. My oldest son just started kindergarten. I am at a place where I need to have better endurance, stamina, strength, etc to keep up with all the craziness at my house. Do you think you can actually make it? Or are you worried you’ll wuss out at day 37? I am drawn to challenges. Challenges excite and motivate me. This is a challenge. I will make it. How will you celebrate on day 91? A pizza party with Dr. Pepper :)
48 EXPLORE it! LIVE IT! The REAL Kendall County.
TABLE FOR TWO Are you a “New Timer” or an “Old Timer”? This question comes up all the time – How long must you live in the Boerne area before you’re considered to have lived here long enough to have an opinion?
Old Timer: You have two options for building a home nowadays in the Boerne area. Expensive, and Stupid-Insane Expensive. For the Expensive route, you can head down to the Flats and buy a lot that has a dilapidated home one it, bulldoze it, and build your home. The cost for that lot and home that has virtually no value? Probably close to a quarter million dollars. The dirt here is so valuable (cause there’s none left), you’re going to pay through the nose for it. For the Stupid-Insane Expensive route, you drive out to Cordillera, or Estancia, or Menger Springs, and you can smash down a home in a beautiful neighborhood. Approximate cost? Well over a million. Either that, or I say you stay in your nice Boerne Heights home, let your kids play with the other 7000 kids in that neighborhood, and then move to Comfort when they graduate.
We at EXPLORE readily admit that if you pop up with an opinion about a city issue, you will invariably be asked “And how long have YOU been here?” Do we think that’s
New Timer: Back to traffic. Getting out of Boerne in the mornings so that I can com-
right? No. Do we know how to fix it? Absolutely not. It did, however, get us talking and
mute to my job in San Antonio is a beast. Do you have a favorite route to get out of
we decided to sit an admitted “New Timer” down with the one and only “Old Timer”.
town when you go to San Antonio?
Their conversation was documented.
Old Timer: Allright, now I’m pissed. For one, you are the problem here in Boerne. You are the personification of the stereotype that other old timers around here are
New Timer: Hey Old Timer, it’s nice to finally meet you. I’ve heard a lot about you. My first question is: Man, has traffic always been this bad? Old Timer: No. In fact, there was a time when there was rarely more than one car at a
always bitching about: You moved your family to Boerne because it’s safe and you want out of the city. Then what do you do? You turn right around, and drive to San Antonio every day. You spend the minimal amount of money here in town, and simply jam our
stoplight. It was peaceful, because of the obvious: We were a small town in the country.
roadways. Secondly, NOBODY should ever willingly drive to that cesspool known as San
Not a lot of people lived here. Yes, that has changed, and our wonderful traffic situation
Antonio. EVER. It should be dreaded, avoided, and spoke about with as much disdain
is evidence of that. It’s nauseating.
as possible. The place is a dump, has been for years, and should be avoided at all costs.
New Timer: Ok, I understand. On a different subject, I’ve got a couple of kids and am frequently looking for places to take them to play. Got any suggestions? Old Timer: Yes, it’s called your backyard. Let me get this right: you live in the Hill
New Timer: Damn, Old Timer. I get that you hate San Antonio, but let me ask you this: you’re pretty much the most vocal guy around about all the things you don’t like about Boerne, too. So, do you even like it here?
Country, surrounded by trees and rivers and fields and countless places where your chil-
Old Timer: I moved to Boerne in the ‘40s, right after WWII. I came here to carve out
dren could play and imagine, run and swim and jump….and you load them up into that
a life and raise my family. Instead of “commuting” to the cesspool for a job, I got a job
minivan and drive them to a formal playground where you sit there, surf your phone,
here. I worked for the next 35 years here in town, and have enjoyed every minute of my
and supervise them? (Sigh) Open your back door, point them out and tell them to come
time here. I have been involved at a civic level, a church level, a neighborhood level,
home when it’s dark. Life isn’t this hard, man.
and a charity level. I have created relationships that have lasted for every one of those years I’ve been here. Do I like it here? I wouldn’t live anywhere else. But let me say that
New Timer: Ouch. Alright, another question: Seriously, what the hell is up with the
in the past 10 years, the wheels have come off the bus. We have a mayor that openly
obsession with ducks here? Are you aware that there is a statue dedicated to a dead
calls for more and more and more housing, we have roads that are almost gridlocked,
duck by the River?
a school system that is busting at the seams, and we will outgrow our water supply in
Old Timer: You see, now you’re starting to irritate me. I loathe the ducks. What began
less than 10 years. We are not headed in a good direction (despite what the mayor will
as nothing more than a father’s gift to his two young kids has blossomed into a nuisance
tell you), and the very reasons we all moved here will be gone soon. You moved here
that is not eradicated, but encouraged. I have spoken at length about this and no one
because it was safe and was a good place to raise your family. That’s funny, because it’s
listens. The ducks are examples of misplaced priorities for this town. We love the ducks
pretty much the same reasons I moved here. However, give this town another 10 years,
and build statues for them, and then we let our roads go to shit. We spend money
and you won’t be in that same town anymore. You’ll be in large suburb of the cesspool,
cleaning up after the ducks, but then we scratch our heads as to why our tax rates go
and all of the problems you moved away from will have found you again. So do I bitch
insane. It’s exhausting, and don’t bring it up again.
about a bunch of stuff in this town? Yes I do. It doesn’t mean anyone has to listen, but at least I’ve got the guts to say it.
New Timer: Gotcha. We’re in a small house in Boerne Heights. We’re thinking of building soon. Got any suggestions on the best place to build a new home?
50 EXPLORE it! LIVE IT! The REAL Kendall County.
KRISTA UPHAM
C a l l to day to d i sC uss yo u r r e a l estat e ne e ds 210-884-5276
krista @ texasranChesforsale . Com
M A R KET IN G R ES ID E N T I A L & RA N C H P RO P E RT IES IN T HE HIL L CO U N T RY
501 E. San antonio | BoErnE, tExaS 78006 830.249.9339 officE www.texasranchesforsale.com
October 2014
www.hillcountryexplore.com
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