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Explore Issue A P R I L 2 02 3

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Explore!

April 2023 PUBLISHER

Tara Bové | tara.bove@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

Connie Clark | connie.clark@citylifestyle.com

The world around us seems to be efficiency- and productivity-obsessed. There are times I fall into that trap, but the truth is - that can be a sad and unfulfilling way to go through life. My hunch is that most of us know that we can leave some room for exploring, for trying new places and things, for being a beginner, even for getting lost. It is those times that are unstructured and open-ended where the space exists for connections to be made, friendships to be fostered and trust to be built. I’ve been blessed to have some of that space. From climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro to owning this magazine, I’ve been given the chance to experience new things, stretch my boundaries, and develop new friendships. So has my family – especially living in Burkina Faso and experiencing a completely different culture and people. But leaving open time – some call it margin takes intentionality. In fact it can take effort. For our family, carving out space means less screentime and more ‘we’ time. Perhaps for you, it may be too many busy weeknights away from home or not enough dinners around the table together. But I've noticed that “adventures” and “exploration” doesn't even have to be something big and crazy. It can be playing a board game out on the patio, walking a new trail or going out to find a fun cookie place we've never been to before in a different part of town. One of the great things about living here in Boerne and Fair Oaks Ranch is that we have so many opportunities to be spontaneous and enjoy what our community has to offer. Our hope is that this issue encourages you to make room for exploration. To prioritize time away from the regular schedule of life. To lose yourself on a trail or in a book. To plan that trip you’ve been thinking about, to make time for the things that matter most to you, but often come last on the calendar. If April showers bring May flowers, make time to play in the rain! Happy April!

SOCIAL MEDIA COOR DINATOR

Brianna Perez | brianna.perez@citylifestyle.com PUBLISHER ASSISTANT

Nadine Aguado | nadine.aguado@citylifestyle.com CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Dr. Rudy Bersani, Connie McFall Clark, Jennifer Edwards, Aubrey Matson, Brian McVey, Mike Oakes, Leigh Owen CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Sarah Brooke Lyons, Dayna De Hoyos, Jessi Edison

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman LAYOUT DESIGNER Antanette Ray

TA R A B OV É , P U B L I S H E R @BOERNELIFESTYLE

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/BOERNE |

Proverbs 3:5-6 Boerne Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Boerne area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Boerne Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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APRIL 2023

inside the issue The Explore Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

18 A Taste of Italy

Lifestyle Letter

Off Road T R AV EL

City Scene

Culinary Creations FO O D + B E V E R AG E

Business Monthly

Must See S PO RTS + R EC R EAT ION

Expert Help HO ME + DES I GN

Road Trip T R AV EL

Chef ’s Selection FO O D + B EV ER AGE

Realty Report R EA L ESTAT E

Giving Back LI FE + C U LT U R E

Events

Outdoor Adventure S PO RTS + R EC R EAT I O N

Healthy Lifestyle HEA LT H + W E L L N E SS

From the Comfort of Your Home

34 Camel-backing Through Time in Big Bend Excursions in West Texas

40 Behind the Dough An Inside Look at Opal

& Onyx Cookie Company

42 Explore the Cibolo

An Abundance of Nature Right in the City

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Dayna De Hoyos For the last 25 years, Doug Baum has been guiding guests on Big Bend Camel Treks.

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APRIL 2023

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

1: Girl With Grit Come and Make It Event 2: Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce Business Award Winners 3: Champion HS Student Wins Filmmaking State Championship 4: BISD Trustees and Volunteers Visit a Legislative Session at the Texas Capitol 5: Fair Oaks Ranch Police Officers Received Life-Saving Awards

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @BoerneLifestyle

C I T Y SC E N E

ADVOCATE

EDUCATE

CONNECT

To learn more about membership, visit us online at

www.boerne.org

APRIL 2023

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

GBMB Insurance Agency, LLC Celebrates 40-Year Anniversary

Italian Motor Gathering Co-Sponsored by Prestige Motorsports

GBMB Insurance Agency, LLC. was formed in 1983 by Hayden Grona and Jerry Boles. In 1997, the agency expanded with the addition of Bill Martin, and in 2001, Chris Bloxsom rounded out the GBMB name. We have clients whom we have served for ten to twenty plus years. We keep longtime and experienced staff. We support the Kendall, Bexar, Comal, and surrounding counties' service organizations and scholarship fundraisers. GBMBinsurance.com/

Boerne is pleased to host the Italian Motor Gathering on the Main Square Plaza on April 15. Italian Motor Gathering has earned a reputation as the premier exhibition of the finest Italian vehicles in the Texas Hill Country. This event is open to all Italian motoring marques and is free for spectators. IMG is grateful for the relationship with the City of Boerne and our sponsors. Register at: italianmotorgathering.com/

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Boerne Escape Rooms Boerne Escape Rooms is an amazing way to spend an hour. Whether you’re with friends, kids, on a date, at a company outing, or hosting a party, you are certain to have a blast. Choose a unique theme from our family-built rooms: fairytale, Christmas, witch’s cabin, and hunting for Bigfoot. Then book online and arrive for your themed room full of puzzles, intriguing storylines, and an objective to keep you motivated and enjoying every moment! boerneescape.com/

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Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Boerne

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

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Home Plant Guide ROOM BY ROOM

Do you consider yourself to have a green thumb? Or is it challenging for you to keep plants alive? I was once gifted a towel that proclaimed, “Houseplants come here to die”. Thankfully, I was recently able to speak with Amanda Blisset, owner of Blume Haus, a local floral and plant shop in Fair Oaks Ranch. She has a beautiful shop full of wonderful gift-giving items and is known

for creating exquisite, floral gifts including succulent and plant gardens. One of the first things I learned was how important it is to avoid impulsive plant purchases. It is advantageous to evaluate the places in your home you would enjoy seeing more decorative color and then determine what type of plant would be best suited to each location.

ARTICLE BY JENNIFER EDWARDS

EXP E RT H E LP | HOM E + DE S I GN

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSI EDISON

“Plants need the minerals found in our local hard water! Do not use soft water.”

Houseplants generally thrive better with indirect sun so being near a window is ideal. Some plant varieties that do well in these areas include Pothos Ivy, which comes in two varieties, solid or variegated, Dracaena and Majesty Palms. One exception to this rule is a beautiful, flowering plant called Kalanchoe, that flourishes when receiving more light, therefore, works best in a south-facing window. Another factor to consider is the level of humidity in different areas of your home. The kitchen and bathrooms are the most humid areas of your home so Orchids, Ferns and Philodendrons are varieties that love these areas. One interesting plant that loves

both humidity and a lot of light is called a Snake Plant, also known as “Mother-in-Law Tongues”. Then you have Succulents that need the lowest levels of humidity and very little water or maintenance, making them a great option for many areas in your home. One last tip I got to keep plants thriving in my Texas Hill Country home is to not give them soft water. Plants need the minerals found in our local hard water! Blume-Haus.com/

AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / BO E R N E

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A Taste

of It aly From the Comfort of Your Home

ARTICLE BY BRIAN MCVEY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH BROOKE LYONS/DAYNA DE HOYOS

The art of pasta making is an essential part of the heritage in Italy and the preservation of pasta making is an intangible cultural importance to Raffaele Martini and his wife Dahlia. I had the pleasure of meeting Raffaele, originally from Cortona, Italy, (the same town as the book and movie, “Under the Tuscan Sun"), and his wife Dahlia, a Texas native. There are few places in the world like the Tuscany region in Italy. It really has it all: the most beautiful rolling-hill landscapes, medieval historical towns, Renaissance art, Italy's best wineries, amazing food, and suitable weather to enjoy it all. As I entered the kitchen, I was immediately hit with the aroma of pasta sauce consisting of fresh garlic, basil and tomatoes slowly simmering on the stovetop. As our team was about to explore firsthand the art of pasta making, I couldn’t help but appreciate Italian singer Andrew Bocelli’s music playing in the background, which made this experience truly authentic. The team was really excited at the thought that we were making pasta from scratch! With our aprons on, we were ready to start making pasta. Raffaele instructed us

to pour some water into the small bowls of flour. We were informed that the pasta we were creating was called Pici pasta. Pici is a traditional Tuscan pasta that is often eaten with shredded cheese or a fresh tomato sauce. Raffaele reminded us that the ingredients for Pici is just flour and water. We mixed the water and flour by “kneading” for fifteen minutes by hand to make it very elastic. This seemed hard at first, but everyone in the class agreed it was especially approachable for beginners. Raffaele added, “You can make the best pasta at home with the most basic of kitchen instruments: a smooth surface, a sharp knife, and a halfhour of hands-on time.” While we were kneading the dough, Raffaele told stories of how he learned the art of pasta making as a young kid while watching his mother in the kitchen. He tried over and over to conquer this method of homemade pasta. As Raffaele also humbly stated, “I am a Level 3 Sommelier, so I know what wine to pair with specific meals." Both Raffaele and Dahlia instructed us on how to use the palm of our hands to transform the flour and

How they met: Dahlia was in Italy for a three-month internship. After being in Rome for two weeks, she met Raffaele at the Yellow Hostel-Hotel bar and ended up staying two years before she brought Raffaele home to Texas.

C HE F ’S SE LE CT ION | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

CONTINUED >

AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / BO E R N E

water into a silky pasta dough. We then started to roll out the pieces of dough with our fingers, starting in the middle and working towards the outside. If you ever played with Play-Doh and rolled it into worms, this technique will be familiar to you. The noodles should not be thicker than a pencil but not thin enough to break. Besides that, there are no rules; if they're a little uneven, don't sweat it! We placed the rolled noodles lengthwise on a floured tray to avoid sticking. Once the water boiled, we cooked the pasta until just shy of al dente, or about four to five minutes. We were told to drain the pasta and reserve one cup of pasta water. After taking the pasta out of the water, I watched as Raffaele put the homemade pasta sauce on top of the plate of Pici for an incredibly delicious, yet simple dinner at home. Dahlia stated, “Once you've had a taste of fresh homemade pasta, it's hard to go back to the store-bought stuff!” She added, “Homemade pasta is incredibly simple to make, and you don't need any fancy tools or a pasta maker to make it happen … merely your two hands!” Raffaele suggested making several batches at once and then store and preserve them in the freezer for future meals.

C HE F ’S SE LE CT ION | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

Pasta making is an especially fun task if you enjoy it with your family members. What an incredibly unique experience for our team and I know I am motivated to start making homemade pasta at home with my kids! Both Raffaele and Dahlia are a powerful couple who are passionate about food and wine. They offer workshops and wine pairing classes, as well as Raffaele’s independent Sommelier services. You can find more of their services here: martiniandcompany. com or email Raffaele directly at martiniwines@gmail.com. CONTINUED >

“Pasta making is an especially fun task if you enjoy it with your family members. What an incredibly unique experience for our team and I know I am motivated to start making homemade pasta at home with my kids!”

AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / BO E R N E

C HE F ’S SE LE CT ION | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

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Discover Ways to Serve Others VOLUNTEER FOR MISSION TRIPS HOSTED BY LOCAL CHURCHES AND ORGANIZATIONS PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH BROOKE LYONS

Many churches and other organizations in our area have wonderful outreach ministries that assist national and international communities with a variety of services. Exploring other countries while providing much-needed assistance is a fabulous way to give back while enriching your own life. Contact your church's or organization's outreach directors and explore how to share your many talents. The Global Outreach Ministry at Oak Hills Church provides unique and life-changing opportunities for discipleship through short-term mission trips, missionary partnerships, and prayer events. In 2023, the following trips are planned and include the services volunteers will provide: May 10-18 // Coventry England - Refugee Aid/Food Pantries/Community Service (Young Adult Team) June 4-11 // Guatemala - Medical/Children’s Ministry/Construction June 11-16 // Acuna, Mexico - Home Construction (Spanish Congregation Team) June 21-29 // Haiti - Children’s Ministry/ Adult & Widow Ministry July 27-August 3 // Colombia - Youth and Soccer Camp Outreach (Student Ministry Team) July 28-August 6 // Natal, Brazil - Medical/Dental/ Children’s Ministry/Adult Ministry September 17-24 // Guatemala - Dental/Home Construction/Children’s Ministry October 11-19 // Coventry England - Refugee Aid/Food Pantries/Adult Ministry November 8-16 // Haiti - Medical/Children’s Ministry/ Adult Ministry December 8-10 // Del Rio, TX / Acuna, Mexico - Manos de Cristo/Family Ministry/Children’s Ministry December 11-16 // Nicaragua - Family Ministry/ Children’s Ministry January 13-20, 2024 // Honduras - Casa de Ester Healing Ministry (Women Only Team) Contact: GlobalOutreach@oakhillschurch.com to see what trips are still needing volunteers.

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AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / BO E R N E

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O UT D OOR A DV E N T U R E | S PORTS + RE CRE ATI ON

ARTICLE BY CONNIE MCFALL CLARK

GET OUT OF YOUR

Comfort Zone! Explore! Try something new ... something out of your comfort zone! We've selected four experiences that will definitely break the cycle of humdrum activities. Want to experience flying through the air without jumping out of a plane? Indoor skydiving has become a popular sport for those seeking a safe thrill. Check out the iFly venue in San Antonio for a fun flight. Another exciting flight is zip lining above the beautiful scenery in Central Texas. That is, if you're brave enough to let go and sail through the air. There are zip line facilities near Helotes and Wimberley, to name just a couple. Climbing on the back of a huge horse takes some nerve. But the ride is definitely worth it. Gently moving across the trails or galloping through a field will get your adrenaline flowing and put a smile on your face. There are several riding stables in the Boerne area. There are lots of water sports that will get the blood pumping; however, kayaking also adds the need for paddling and staying atop the kayak. It is all about balance and gliding across the water. Hill Country Paddle Sports on Boerne Lake offers rentals.

EXPLORE ADRENALINE RUSH ACTIVITIES AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / BO E R N E

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210.439.9937 AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / BO E R N E

CAMELBACKING THROUGH TIME IN BIG BEND

ARTICLE BY MIKE OAKES

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAYNA DE HOYOS

EXCURSIONS IN WEST TEXAS

O FF R OA D | TR AVEL

The Big Bend region of West Texas hosts an intoxicating mixture of history and mystery. From the Marfa Lights to the McDonald Observatory to the vistas of Big Bend National Park, the world opens up in a way that we’re not used to seeing. So it is no surprise that the area is home to an experience unavailable anywhere else in North America: traveling through a unique piece of American history on the back of a camel. “You’re doing what a camel is meant to do, out in a place that they’re built for,” says Doug Baum, founder and operator of Big Bend Camel Treks. “To appreciate these animals and this unique history, you truly need to be in the context of where a camel is meant to thrive. In that landscape, you gain the greatest appreciation for them. Short of going to North Africa, the Middle East or India, this is the place to do it. And I’m the only guy doing it.” A former zookeeper, Doug Baum fell in love with camels 30 years ago. “A chance encounter with camels in Nashville set me on this path. Within a week of working with camels, I was

head over heels. They’re gentle, affectionate, comical.” Around that same time, he read a book about how the U.S. Army had imported and used camels in the mid-1800s to explore routes from the Texas Hill Country all the way to California. “Today’s Hwy 90 west from San Antonio through Castroville, Uvalde into Big Bend and the greater southwest, even parts of Route 66 … these are actually old camel trails.” Camels seemed a sensible choice to explore the interior southwest of North America, which was labeled on maps of the time as “the Great American Desert”. This was right around the Civil War. With secession in 1861, the federals abandoned the camels in Camp Verde, Texas and the Confederate army took control of everything, including the camels. “I love camels and I love history,” Baum said. “I finished that book in one sitting, and I said to myself, ‘I have to move back to Texas and tell this story!’” For the last 25 years, Baum has been doing just that, guiding trips on private land in the Big Bend area. A teacher at heart, his desire is to give people an appreciation of this unique slice of American history, along with an unforgettable experience trekking through the West Texas desert on the back of a camel. Big Bend Camel Treks offers two-day and three-day treks, which include either one or two nights sleeping in tents underneath the big West Texas skies. Almost everything is provided; trekkers need only bring a backpack with clothes, a sleeping bag and good hiking boots, as folks travel some short portions of the trek on foot. Baum’s company provides water and all the meals, usually a mix of Middle Eastern, Southwestern, Mexican, or North African fare.

Along the trail, Baum recounts stories of the camels’ history in Texas, along with the ranching heritage of the West. He shares about the abundant flora, fauna and other wildlife. “The landscape is absolutely gorgeous,” Baum notes. “If we’re lucky we see wildlife like javelina, mule deer, aoudad, different birds, plus the plant diversity of the desert. Cactii, yucca, mesquite and acacia trees.” Desert nights are a special treat, Baum notes, “You hear the coyotes, see the stars. Guests really appreciate the clear nights, the stargazing.” Spring and fall are the best times for a trek, with mild temperatures and cool nights. Big Bend Camel Treks excursions are usually booked six months to a year in advance, so it is good to plan far ahead by emailing to get on their waiting list. The treks operate out of Cibolo Creek Ranch, a 30,000-acre guest ranch south of Marfa, where people can stay before the trek. Asked what commonly surprises his guests, Baum points to the temperament of his camels. “Time and again, people tell me they’ve heard camels are mean and nasty. Then they meet my camels, and they’re all just sweet and affectionate, and it changes their minds. I’m a myth-buster.” texascamelcorps.com/bigbend-camel-treks/ CONTINUED >

AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / BO E R N E

“TIME AND AGAIN, PEOPLE TELL ME THEY’VE HEARD CAMELS ARE MEAN AND NASTY. THEN THEY MEET MY CAMELS, AND THEY’RE ALL JUST SWEET AND AFFECTIONATE, AND IT CHANGES THEIR MINDS. I’M A MYTH-BUSTER.”

O FF R OA D | TR AVEL

Everything you need to FIND NEW ROADS!

Since 1988, we have developed our practice by maintaining close, trusted relationships with each of our clients and their families.

Give us a call at 210-687-1333 to schedule a free portfolio consultation with one of our financial advisors at our Dominion office.

Our expertise is aligning personalized legal, tax, and financial plans to create a game plan for life.

Doug Moe CPA, JD, CEO

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A few of our services include: Retirement Strategies Investments IRA/401k Rollover Annuities Asset Protection Tax Strategies Estate & Tax Planning

Open every day, 8am-8pm We treat ALL of your Urgent Care needs: Infections, illnesses and injuries UTI, strep, flu, COVID-19, ear pain, back pain, migraine, rash, bite/sting, dehydration, lacerations and broken bones - for all ages!

• Rapid In-House Testing: - Flu, COVID-19, Strep, RSV, UTI, EKG

•X-Ray on site ★★★★★ staff staff.” “Very •Friendly, little wait caring time. Caring - Jessica B.

910 River Road, Suite 101, Boerne, Texas 78006 (830) 331-2391 | myurgentcareclinic-boerne.com

23718 Frontage Rd, IH 10, Suite 112 San Antonio, TX 78257 210-819-1274 www.SugaringSA.com

The Pearl Antler is a lot of glamour, some sparkle, a little sass, well maybe a lot of sass, totally outrageous, a spoonful of sophistication, always patriotic, a sprinkle of hippie and of course a dash of darlin’...

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OWNED LOCALLY VE: S-3XL LUSI SIZE INC AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / BO E R N E

Behind the Dough AN INSIDE LOOK AT OPAL & ONYX COOKIE COMPANY

Just past the Boerne Toyota dealership, there are some delicious, homestyle treats waiting for you! At Hilary Deville’s Opal & Onyx Cookie Co., all baked goods are made from scratch, with love. After a job loss at the height of the pandemic, Deville decided she wanted to start her own business. Deville, complete with her love of food, decided to embark on a journey of learning to bake. She described baking as a science that took her over a year of research and trial and error to practice - and to then develop her own recipes. Opal & Onyx prides itself in its homestyle way of baking: all cookies are handmade and “perfectly imperfect” as described by Deville. The cookie company has a mainstay menu of cookie flavors that are always on the menu, as well as a range of rotating flavors with names that are all geologically inspired due to Deville’s undergraduate degree in geology. It isn’t everyday you are able to secure a “peridot pistachio” cookie.

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

In accordance with this theme of gemstones and geodes, Deville gained inspiration for her business’ name from the juxtaposition of the opal and onyx stones. Opal is a bright, pearlescent stone that contrasts directly against the dark and rougher tones of the onyx. Together, Deville said, "they create a kind of Yin and Yang appearance." And what’s more, Opal & Onyx caters: including everything from local cookie delivery to intricately decorated cookie cakes for weddings. A customer is welcome to place orders online or come into the store to order in person. As well as being a local, woman-owned business, Opal & Onyx strives to support other women locally as well; all retail items in-store are sourced from women-owned businesses. When asked about her favorite part of what she does, Deville said that it’s a rewarding experience to have a business that she can call her own. And, Deville furthered that she loves being able to celebrate every day with her customers, no matter the occasion. Whether you’re looking for the geode-inspired cookie of your dreams or a quality, home-baked treat, Opal & Onyx Cookie Co. has all the bases covered.

ARTICLE BY AUBREY MATSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH BROOKE LYONS/DAYNA DE HOYOS

AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / BO E R N E

Explore the Cibolo

AN ABUNDANCE OF N AT U R E R I G H T I N THE CITY

ARTICLE BY LEIGH OWEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALLISON RUSSELL PHOTOGRAPHY/JOHN FREUD PHOTOGRAPHY/CIBOLO CENTER FOR CONSERVATION/PAUL MANNIKO Cibolo Center for Conservation

Allison Russell Photography

John Freud Photography

M UST SE E | SPORTS + R ECRE ATI ON

Spring is here and there is no better time to hit the trails than the present. The Boerne community is fortunate to have a variety of city and nature trails for residents and visitors to enjoy. The Cibolo Center for Conservation is proud to offer more than five miles of trails across more than 160-acres that offer adventure, education and a connection to the beauty of nature. The Cibolo Nature Center and Herff Farm are the two campuses of the Cibolo. The Cibolo Nature Center at 140 City Park Rd. offers four distinct ecosystems: the creek, the prairie, the marsh and the woodlands. A trail map is available at the visitor’s center and gift shop. The Herff Farm at 33 Herff Rd. has a special appeal and is open to the public on Saturdays from 9am until 1pm. From gardens to historic buildings, bird blinds and monarch meadows, an adventure awaits you at the Farm. From the serious trail enthusiast to families with young children and dogs, everyone can find something to enjoy. In all seasons, the trails offer new experiences and opportunities to connect with nature. Celebrating 35 years of conserving natural resources through education and stewardship, the Cibolo also offers an array of educational programs to get you connected to nature and fun. The Night Hikes series offers monthly guided hikes for adults and families that allows for special access to see the wildlife that comes out at night. Don’t forget to check out our gardening and sustainable living series in the Teaching Garden at Herff Farm each month. If your adventure is more slow and steady, then you will want to check out the Wellness Walks that offer a guided meditative

Allison Russell Photography

Cibolo Center for Conservation

hike along the trails to get you refreshed for the week ahead. The Cibolo is a 501c3 nonprofit organization and is completely supported by the generosity of friends like you. Become a member of the Cibolo’s Circle of Friends at cibolo.org.

TRAIL HIGHLIGHTS: MARSHLAND TRAIL Restoration efforts by the City of Boerne and the Cibolo have saved this last remaining portion of the marsh. Look for redwing blackbird, kingfisher, cattle egret, whistling tree duck, and many others. This handicap-accessible trail is best enjoyed at a slow pace so you do not miss the wonders in the tall rushes and clear pools.

John Freud Photography

WOODLANDS TRAIL Wind along the bluff overlooking the Cibolo Creek and enjoy the dense shade of the oak and juniper overhead, as American beautyberry, elbowbush, and Mexican buckeye provide understory. An easy trail loops back through wildflower meadows and open grassland — an inspiring look at nature!

CIBOLO CREEK TRAIL The towering cypress trees along the Cibolo Creek create a canopy of life. Birds flit about, squirrels race from limb to limb. Raccoon, opossum, and ringtail cat sleep peacefully through the day in tree hollows. Along the lush bank, you can discover mustang grape, rough-leaf dogwood, spicebush, and the threatened sycamore leaf snowbell. Peer into the clear water to see turtles, bass, perch, and catfish. The Cibolo Creek is a critical habitat for wildlife and an important source of recharge for the Edwards Aquifer. The creek is tested regularly for water quality and is part of the Texas Watch Stream Monitoring program.

NATIVE TEXAS PRAIRIE TRAIL Prairie once covered oceans of Texas acreage, but is now one of the region’s

“The Cibolo Nature Center offers four distinct ecosystems: the creek, the prairie, the marsh and the woodlands.”

most endangered ecosystems. This pocket prairie contains the tall-grass species that our ancestors knew: big bluestem, Indian grass, and switch grass. It is home to the red-shouldered hawk, scissortail flycatcher, meadow lark, and rabbit. Deer graze where the buffalo once roamed.

AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / BO E R N E

Sleep Inside, Outside 3 Incredible places to (literally) sleep under the stars

It’s always magical to spend a night sleeping under the stars. In decades past, adventure seekers have packed the SUV or camper with tents and gear for ‘roughin’ it’ in the great outdoors. But the swanky and exploding category of luxury outdoor hotel is something to investigate for an unforgettable, next-level experience. For those who prefer glamping rather than pitching their own tent fireside, here are a few options that incorporate sweeping views and a unique opportunity for travelers to be more authentically embedded in the landscape of the place they’re visiting. These resorts have bucket list-worthy rooms that capture the best of both the luxury resort experience and the outdoors. Whether you crave the dry heat of the remote Utah desert or the luminous beauty of the Northern Lights, we’ve curated a short list of some places you *must* check out.

R OA D T R IP | TR AVEL

Photography by Amangiri, USA

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New client appointments now available 908 South Main Street Boerne, Texas (830) 429-4778 • trelliscounselingco.com

Photography by Amangiri, USA

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2 O UT O F 3 of our readers regularly purchase from our ads.

Amangiri, Utah In southern Utah, Amangiri is a five star resort perfect for an adventurous weekend in the desert. However, it is the simple rooms built to emphasize the beauty of Canyon Point that truly make it an incredible place to stay. Each suite has an outdoor lounge and fireplace with private pools or rooftop terraces available too. Don’t miss a dip in the ‘gram-worthy pool, which wraps around the landscape’s curved dunes and arid plateaus. CONTINUED >

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AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / BO E R N E

Hacienda Na Xamena, Ibiza The Spanish island Ibiza boasts lush pine forests, hidden calas (cove beaches) and Hacienda Na Xamena, a resort suspended on a cliff 600 feet above the Mediterranean. Guests flock to its spa for the eight saltwater thalassotherapy (seawater as a form of therapy) lagoons, which are linked together with waterfalls. Swim to the edge of the pool and drink in the sweeping sea vistas. Photography Hacienda Na Xamena, Ibiza ©

Photography by Pacuare Lodge

Pacuare Lodge, Costa Rica This jungle hideaway is so out there, you have to whitewater raft down a river or ride a gondola to get there. A network of hanging bridges connect the villas, which have thatched roofs, plantation teak wood floors, rattan furniture and private plunge pools. In the evening, zip 400 feet down a cable for a meal at the Nest, a platform at the top of a ceiba tree, then take a night-time stroll along romantic pathways lit by candles and lanterns.

Photography by Pacuare Lodge

R OA D T R IP | TR AVEL

AP RIL 2 0 2 3

realty report A sample of recently sold luxury properties in Boerne. N E I GH BO RH O O D

ORIGIN AL PRICE

SO L D P RIC E

%SO L D/ O RIG

DO M

B DRM S

Estancia

$3,500,000.00

$2,940,000.00

84%

147

B AT H S 4

Cordillera Ranch

$2,795,000.00

$2,600,000.00

93%

Cordillera Ranch

$1,980,000.00

$1,900,000.00

95.90%

118

Fair Oaks Ranch

$1,495,000.00

$1,450,000.00

96.90%

155

Cordillera Ranch

$1,245,000.00

$1,083,000.00

86.90%

Bridlewood

$1,175,000.00

$1,041,550.00

88.60%

261

Deer Meadow Estates

$999,000.00

$1,010,000.00

101.10%

Tapatio Springs

$979,000.00

$970,000.00

99%

Lake Country

$889,000.00

100%

Sage Oaks

$900,000.00

$869,500.00

96.60%

133

Village Green

$860,000.00

$865,000.00

100.60%

N/A

$849,900.00

$850,000.00

100.01%

Kendall Woods Estate

$850,000.00

$835,000.00

98.20%

173

Windwood

$849,900.00

$815,000.00

95.80%

Balcones Creek

$874,900.00

$814,564.00

93.10%

162

Fair Oaks Ranch

$809,000.00

100%

146

Fair Oaks Ranch

$734,800.00

$735,000.00

100.02%

Fair Oaks Ranch

$711,000.00

100%

Fair Oaks Ranch

$735,000.00

$700,000.00

95.20%

Fair Oaks Ranch

$725,000.00

$695,000.00

95.90%

160

Reserve at Old Fredericksburg Road

$649,900.00

$635,000.00

97.70%

106

Sablechase

$575,000.00

$560,000.00

97.40%

140

Sablechase

$549,575.00

100%

Fallbrook

$549,500.00

$530,000.00

96.40%

Fair Oaks Ranch

$599,500.00

$565,000.00

94%

Southglen

$499,000.00

$507,000.00

102%

3|1

Napa Oaks

$517,000.00

$500,000.00

97%

148

3|1

Elkhorn Ridge

$494,000.00

100%

Sablechase

$499,000.00

$480,000.00

96%

Elkhorn Ridge

$478,000.00

$477,562.00

100%

3|1

Source: SABOR MLS system.

BENNETT KENNEDY

Established Record of Excellence & Customer Service YEAR 1: JASON GLAST GROUP ROOKIE OF THE YEAR TOTAL SALES OF $10.9M

YEAR 2:

YEAR 3:

PHYLLIS BROWNING CO. $8.6M IN SALES CLOSED OR CULTURE AWARD RECIPIENT PENDING IN Q1 ALONE TOTAL SALES OF $16.3M

B EN NE T T KE NNE DY R E A LTOR ® | A SSOC I AT E 2 1 0. 4 2 1 . 652 9 B KEN N EDY @ P H Y L L I S B R OW N I N G . CO M JA S O N G L A ST. CO M AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / BO E R N E

APRIL 2023

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area. APR IL 1ST

Spring Antique Tractor Pull

T H E AG R I C ULT UR A L MU S E U M A ND A RTS C E NT E R The Boerne AgriCultural Museum and Arts Center is hosting its annual Antique Tractor Pull. Come out and watch antique tractors from around Texas as the drivers compete to pull the heaviest weight the furthest distance. Other activities and food trucks will be available from 10 am to 4 pm.

WELLNESS

APR IL 1ST

17th Annual Easter Egg Hunt

INDIVIDUALIZED HEALTH PLANNING

NATURAL AESTHETICS

Kimberly Verbeke is a Traditional Naturopathic Practitioner serving Boerne and the Texas Hill Country. Kimberly believes in focusing on the root cause of symptoms to help her patients heal and live their best life at any age.

Schedule Your

Appointment (610) 780-5994 | avitabydrv.com kimberly@avitabydrv.com 115 TX-46 Boerne, Texas 78006 48

EVE N TS

Learn More

C I T Y L A KE PA R K PAV I L I ON From 10:30 am until 12 noon, Boerne hosts the 17th Annual Easter Egg Hunt. Get your baskets ready and your tennis shoes on because the event goes fast! This is a free community event, so bring the kids. Don't miss a special appearance from the Easter Bunny! APR IL 13TH

Spring Diva Night

DOWNTOWN B O E R NE From 5 until 8 pm, the best girl's night out in downtown Boerne kicks off spring shopping! Spring Diva Night will be bursting with everything you love from your favorite shops: later shopping hours, cocktails, delicious bites, music, and more! Come out and support local businesses with a night of shopping and fun!

A P RIL 2 2 N D

Texas Corvette Association Open Car Show

BO ERNE M AIN PLAZA PAR K From 7 am until 5 pm, downtown Boerne will feature hundreds of colorful Corvettes as they line the historic Hill Country Mile and Main Plaza. The Texas Corvette Association Open Car Show attracts car enthusiasts and guests. Enjoy all that downtown Boerne has to offer while admiring beautiful vehicles. A P RIL 2 2 N D

Come and Make It! Trashin Fashion Show

Locally fabricated in Boerne, Texas

WE ARE YOUR SOURCE FOR CUSTOM SHUTTERS, BLINDS, & DRAPERIES

GIRL WITH GRIT, 41109 I-10 WEST, BO ERNE Contact info@comeandmakeit. org for sponsorships and tickets to this Earth Day Fashion Show! The sponsorship funds will be used for hands-on educational skill-building classes for youth. The participants will model fashions they created from unwanted items collected from closets and bins. Support Boerne youth programs at this wonderful event! A P RIL 2 9 T H

La Petite French Market

RO SEWO O D MAIS ON , BOERN E Rosewood Farm and Fragrance transforms its Hill Country farmstead to the French Countryside with La Petite French Market. Stroll and shop local vendors with a curated European flair, enjoy local artists paint plein air style while indulging in charcuterie, champagne and macaroons. Treat your senses with fragrance making, oyster shell decoupage, outdoor water coloring, and bouquet design. Registration is required at rosewood.maison .

Want to be featured?

Visit our Showroom today! WWW.BLINDSNMOTION.COM | VB (830) 214-2362 41 RUST LN BOERNE, TX 78006

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Boerne

AP R I L 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / BO E R N E

Explore New Avenues for Achieving Optimal Health for You and Your Family

Dr. Rudy Be rsa ni

HOW UNDERSTANDING AND MANAGING THE HEALTH OF YOUR NERVOUS SYSTEM IS KEY TO TRUE HEALTH AND LONGEVITY. "Look well to the spine for the cause of disease." - Hippocrates Taking the words of Hippocrates, also known as The Father of Modern Medicine, one step further to replace the word "spine" with "nervous system" has greater meaning. The ancient Greek physician knew quite well that the most important two functions of the spine is to support and protect the most delicate and intelligent system, our nervous system. It is mainly comprised of our brain and spinal cord accompanied by over 37 miles of nerves. Our nervous system is one giant sensory system that perceives or senses our environment and coordinates the behavior of all other cells. Our body's perception is altered when the accumulation of physical, chemical and emotional stressors surpass our nervous system's ability to adapt. Mainstream mentality naturally goes with what appears to be more controllable, ergo the controlled limitation of physical, chemical and emotional stress by means of meditation, yoga, toxin-free living and the whole food diet. These are great, but is that really all there is to it? When our sensory system is overloaded with stress and gets stuck in what we call ‘fight or flight mode’ our body's greatest defenses shut down and give permission for anxiety, fatigue, autoimmunity, sensory processing disorder, constipation, ADD/ ADHD, ear infections, and much more, thus wrecking havoc on our entire lives. So what if we could change the way our brain perceives and reacts to our environment to make us more resilient and adaptable to the stressors of the world around us? Hmmm, now there’s a thought …

Dr. Rudy Bersani with a patient

ARTICLE BY DR. RUDY BERSANI/ LIVING WATER CHIROPRACTIC

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | HE ALTH + W E LLNE S S