








![]()











Estate-style 1-acre homesites New homes $900s to $2M+ Custom lots from the $200s 15 luxury builders Tour 3 models 6 custom showcase homes Gated community
Tour beautiful new homes and explore Boerne’s premier communities, where exceptional design meets Hill Country lifestyle. Join us in bo communities!



KUPER SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY
TOP 0.5% OF REALTORS IN SAN ANTONIO AND SURROUNDING AREAS
THE PRESIDENT’S CLUB
$18.61M IN SALES PRODUCTION IN 2025
“While these awards are a proud professional milestone, they truly belong to the clients who allowed me to be a part of their journey. Whether we were finding a quiet piece of the hill country or navigating a luxury sale in town, it is your support that makes this work so rewarding.”
- Susan
















We understand the values that shape Hill Country families and the long-term planning required to protect what matters most. With our Boerne office conveniently located to serve you, we deliver integrated wealth management solutions designed to serve this generation and the next.
PROUDLY ROOTED IN THE HILL COUNTRY. HERE FOR YOUR FUTURE.





Dear Readers,
Welcome to our April Investment Issue, and happy spring!
This season in the Texas Hill Country always reminds me that investment begins quietly. Before we ever see blooms, roots are strengthening beneath the soil. Then suddenly, wildflowers appear in brilliant color, a beautiful reminder that growth takes time. Each year, I treasure slowing down to walk our local trails and take it all in. I hope you’ll pause long enough to enjoy it too.

This month, we explore the many ways we invest: in business, land, health, community, and one another. We highlight Das GreenHaus and the impact entrepreneurship has on shaping the future of Boerne (“This Is How Das GreenHaus Makes All The Difference,” p. 30). TNT Services shares how they support landowners across our region (“A Vision Beyond Acreage,” p. 38). If coastal property has been on your mind, you’ll find exciting investment opportunities at Cinnamon Shore (“Coastal Comfort, Timeless Tradition,” p. 44). And Teamwork Financial offers insight, answering important questions about alternative investment strategies (“Beyond Stocks & Bonds,” p. 50).
Investment also looks like vision and excellence. Meet Laurie Love, the owner and creative force behind Cru Event Rentals, who has built something truly special (“Anything Can Work If It Fits Your Personality!" p. 64). I also had the pleasure of experiencing Chef Robert Kennon’s fine dining at Joshua Creek, and it was exceptional. His craft is a true investment in hospitality and experience (“Ranch Cuisine Reimagined,” p. 70).
We explore investing in long-term living through Menger Springs, prioritizing mobility with Promotion Physical Therapy (“The Art of Living Well Longer,” p. 78), and even the intentional pause found in the art of tea with Hill Country High Tea (“A Ritual of Radiance,” p. 58). Sometimes the greatest returns come from slowing down and being present.
On a personal note, I recently heard Tim Tebow speak at a national conference. His bold faith and heart for serving others deeply moved me. As the mother of 17-year-old boy/girl twins, I especially thought of my son, Luke. I thanked Tim for being the kind of role model I would want my son to follow—someone investing in the next generation with purpose and integrity. His passion for missions also resonated with our family’s heart for serving children in Africa.
The most meaningful investments often go beyond finances—they shape lives. We are honored to gather and share these stories with you each month. Thank you for welcoming us into your homes and hearts.
Wildflowers abound, and that makes my heart happy.
Be a light,

April 2026
PUBLISHER
Tara Bové | tara.bove@citylifestyle.com
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Kevin Bové | kevin.bove@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Daniel Gertson | daniel.gertson@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Jessi Edison | jessi.edison@citylifestyle.com
ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR
Kim Suarez | boerne@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Connie Tapia | boerne.socialmedia@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Rocio S. Teniente
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Caroline Mitchell, Rey Lopez, Connor Mullins, Connie Tapia, Catherine Stephens, Daniel Gertson
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Paula VM, Joshua Aldama, Jessi Edison, TNT Media, Cinnamon Shore
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Brandy Thomas





“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” Colossians 3:23
Life seems to move a lot faster than I remember being told in the grocery store when I was a young mom. Do you remember hearing those words?
“Enjoy them while they’re young. It goes so fast.”
Or this one: “You sure do have your hands full.”
At the time, those comments frustrated me. I was in a season of simply trying to survive one day at a time with four young kids, and their words didn’t ring true to me. But they sure do now!
Now I am trying to savor any minute I can get with my family. They are all growing up right before my eyes and I love every single minute of it! One thing that I have learned is that they are watching me and I get the privilege of setting the best example I know how to show them my why. Working for the Lord in every aspect of my life: my marriage, my parenting, my friendships, my community, and my job.
Maybe you are in a season where your why feels unclear or distant. May this be a sweet reminder: when you fix your eyes on Jesus and align your heart with His, He is faithful to remind you of your why.
Jamie Amerman REALTOR®
210.315.8122
jamerman@phyllisbrowning.com






























“It’s from Lee Michaels.” ALL I SAID WAS,






























1: Congratulations to Charger Cheer for an unforgettable run at the UCA High School National Competition! 2: BISD board of trustees at the State of the District lunch. 3: Boerne Champion’s Kate Canales broke her own UIL State 5A 100 breaststroke record. 4: Dr. Kristin Craft, Nicole Gallegos, and Yvette Reyna at the State of the District. 5: Texas Regional Bank team, Dr. Kristin Craft, and CHS junior Katherine Garver. 6: It was a lovely night at Joshua Creek Ranch’s Valentine’s dinner. 7: Geneva’s fourth grade made history come to life at the Annual Medieval Feast and Faire.













High School State Swim Meet 8: There were high fives for all Champion swimmers after each race at the state meet. 9: Senior boys from Champion enjoyed their last race together at the state meet. 10: Girls 400 free relay took 1st, setting a school and 5A record. 11: Will Harrison earned two silver medals and helped his team advance into the champion heats. 12: Champion’s Jada Green also took to the platform for diving at the state meet. 13: Champion Chargers cheered each other on at the state meet. 14: Addison Graham was all smiles after her race at state!
















As we age the flaccidity(looseness) of tissues increases. This is especially important for the entire airway. Upper airways become more restricted due to hard structures and soft tissue hypertrophy (Enlargement). The result is less airflow or volume. This resistance can be detrimental to sleep quality and athletic performance.
NightLase ® utilizes a twin laser system patented by Fotona Lasers. This procedure is a nonablative(no surgical cutting) technique utilizing laser impulses to tighten connective tissue, muscles, and their attachments to hold open the soft palate area and the upper nasal passages. The net result is increased airflow and volume during normal function, sleeping, and athletic performance.
This twin laser system is FDA approved for safety and effectiveness on the tissues treated. The standard procedure takes approximately 45 minutes and needs to be repeated 21 days apart for 3-4 sessions. No anesthetic is needed, and there is no downtime. Protocol maintenance is usually a one-session touch-up every 1-2 years or as needed.





Young Dental Aesthetics is excited to introduce dental memberships designed with you in mind. Each plan is tailored to your oral health needs, recommended care schedule, and long-term wellness goals—because great dentistry isn’t onesize-fits-all. Memberships are now available to fit any lifestyle. Ask us about joining at your next visit or reach out to learn more. Employers can also inquire about custom staff membership plans for their teams.
Scan to read more
Plan your next vacation the easy way! Kimberly Young at bookitbox TRAVEL understands that between the family schedule, work, and everything else, it can be hard to find the time to plan a trip. As your neighbor in Boerne, Kimberley will get to know you, your travel style, interests, and vision for your trip. From there, she'll design a magical, stress-free, done-for-you vacation. bookitbox TRAVEL is a whole new travel experience, from start to vacation.
Celebrate spring at a curated open house with Thornwood Gallery and Shay Addari Beauty Lab. Stop by the gallery on Friday, April 17th, from 4-7 p.m. to explore elevated fine art and beauty wellness while enjoying refreshing sips and lite bites in a warm, welcoming setting, where art and aesthetics come together. All are invited, so trade in your winter blues for some garden hues and join Thornwood Gallery for a toast to the season!

Interested in helping children in foster care? Not everyone can be a foster parent, but everyone can help foster children in some way. Whether you want to foster, adopt, volunteer, or simply learn more about ways you can help, join 1HOPE for Kids online for our upcoming information meetings on April 2nd and in May. Visit their website via the QR code to learn more and register. You can help until every child has a home!
Scan to read more










Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.
— Proverbs 22:6 —

At Ambleside, we believe that real education is much more than the assimilation of facts, figures and skills. It is rather a lifelong process of one’s mind feeding on ideas expressed through God’s creation, great works of art, music, science, mathematics and other disciplines.
—
CHARLOTTE MASON —


Hill Country Action Coach
WHAT DREW YOU TO DGH?
I was drawn to DGH because it immediately felt like a place where entrepreneurial energy and genuine care merged into a community committed to helping one another grow.
HOW HAS BEING PART OF DGH INFLUENCED YOUR WORK AS AN ENTREPRENEUR?
Events like the mentor session with Paul Venzor of MicroChip USA were grounding reminders of the power of humility and shared experience in business. And DGH
has also strengthened my confidence as we prepare for our GrowthCLUB, where we help business owners step out of the day-to-day, get out of their own way, and plan intentionally for their next quarter and beyond.
WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT THING FOR SOMEONE TO KNOW ABOUT DGH?
That it’s more than a workspace or a program. It’s a community intentionally designed to help founders grow in a healthier, more sustainable way, with people who walk alongside you as you build.

Manifestive Design
WHAT DREW YOU TO DGH?
Originally, I was desperate to get out of my home office. I was tired of feeling isolated and disconnected from others. Then, once I joined, I was drawn even more to how intentionally DGH invests in entrepreneurs. Not just with physical space, but with culture, relationships, and a shared willingness to try, learn, and grow together.
WHAT KEEPS YOU A PART OF THE DGH COMMUNITY?
The authenticity of the relationships. DGH is filled with people who genuinely celebrate each other’s wins. There’s something energizing about working in a place where curiosity is encouraged, and ideas are met with “let’s figure it out” instead of “that won’t work.”
WHAT HAVE BEEN THE MOST VALUABLE ASPECTS OF YOUR PARTICIPATION?
Professionally, it’s the trust that develops through ongoing relationships with driven, like-minded business owners, which often leads to meaningful
collaborations. Personally, it’s the encouragement that comes from being around people who understand both the excitement and pressure of entrepreneurship.
HOW HAS BEING PART OF DGH INFLUENCED YOUR WORK AS AN ENTREPRENEUR?
Being surrounded by other ambitious entrepreneurs has pushed me to think more strategically about growth and to trust my instincts as a business owner. It’s made taking bigger, more intentional steps feel less intimidating.
IS THERE A SPECIFIC MOMENT THAT MADE A MEANINGFUL IMPACT ON YOU?
There have been so many highlights, but they all center on helping other members with their businesses. We’ve helped LoCoal and RX Mendoza design their websites; Lightheaded with packaging and a website; Rooted Strength, Boerne Love, Pam Wise, and HerJourney with their logos; Mentoro, Building Texas, Conscious Health, and Catie Campbell with logos and websites. We love seeing fellow Das Greenhaus members take big steps forward in their own companies!
WHEN YOU TELL OTHERS ABOUT DGH, WHAT DO YOU SAY?
It’s clean, it’s cozy, and I’m not embarrassed to bring clients here. I’m proud to show it off! I describe it as a place where entrepreneurs don’t just work alongside each other, but they actively help each other grow.
WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT THING FOR SOMEONE TO KNOW ABOUT DGH?
Das GreenHaus creates more than workspace. It creates connections, momentum, and opportunities that help entrepreneurs move forward with confidence.
WHAT DREW YOU TO DGH?
The idea of staying within our Boerne community and not having to travel to San Antonio for work was very appealing. Plus, DGH’s resources are great. IS THERE A SPECIFIC MOMENT THAT MADE A MEANINGFUL IMPACT ON YOU?
There have been three instances when DGH’s connections invested in our company at a time of need. This has allowed LOCOAL not only to survive those critical moments but also to be on the verge of something great here and now. WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT THING FOR SOMEONE TO KNOW ABOUT DGH?
DGH is here to help you and your small business start, scale, or pivot. As long as you are willing to listen and put in the work, DGH provides the support small business owners need to succeed.
Mineral Unlock
WHAT KEEPS YOU A PART OF THE DGH COMMUNITY?
The depth of the network. People you can lean on for inspiration, motivation, and practical insight across a wide range of disciplines and backgrounds. IS THERE A SPECIFIC MOMENT THAT MADE A MEANINGFUL IMPACT ON YOU?
Early on, I was connected with a mentor, Casey, who has deep experience in the investment space. His guidance helped me let go of unnecessary worries and redirect that energy toward the areas that actually mattered for building the business. WHEN YOU TELL OTHERS ABOUT DGH, WHAT DO YOU SAY?
DGH rocks! It has been an invaluable resource for me as a first-time entrepreneur.
Oakridge Media
WHAT DREW YOU TO DGH?
The support for early-stage entrepreneurs, the mentors, the collaborative working environment, and the great office space all drew me to Das GreenHaus. WHAT HAVE BEEN THE MOST VALUABLE ASPECTS OF YOUR PARTICIPATION?
Professionally, Das GreenHaus gives me a place to focus on my business. I’m involved in a lot of things, but being at DGH makes me think almost solely about my business. Personally, I’ve made friends, found a great Bible study group, and am able to give back to the community through my work with DGH. WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT THING FOR SOMEONE TO KNOW ABOUT DGH?
It exists. If you don’t know about DGH, you’re missing a valuable piece of the business community in Kendall County.




Uncharted
WHAT DREW YOU TO DGH?
I was drawn to DGH for its cost-effective membership and amenities that helped me establish my business. WHAT HAVE BEEN THE MOST VALUABLE ASPECTS OF YOUR PARTICIPATION?
Professional: Casual/informal introductions to others who share a passion for helping others grow in our community. Authentic networking and referrals.
Personal: It’s very gratifying to volunteer as a mentor and have the opportunity to participate in the Straight To Trades program via DGH at Boerne Champion.
HOW HAS BEING PART OF DGH INFLUENCED YOUR WORK AS AN ENTREPRENEUR?
The quality of the programs has really helped me grow my professional network locally in short order, enabling me to showcase the value of my services.
WHAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT THING FOR SOMEONE TO KNOW ABOUT DGH?
DGH is extremely useful for those establishing their business, but it is so much more. Members get out of DGH what they put into it.

Twisted Lizard Mercantile
WHAT KEEPS YOU A PART OF THE DGH COMMUNITY?
We love the feeling of community and networking that DGH provides through its regular meetings for mentors and business owners.
IS THERE A SPECIFIC MOMENT THAT MADE A MEANINGFUL IMPACT ON YOU?
There were many “aha” moments. One that stands out is our conversation with Nigel. We sat down as mentor and mentees and shared stories and experiences. His questions and our answers provided a profile that clarified the importance of knowing ourselves and setting goals for our business. We now have a better idea of how we need to proceed. Sometimes the most valuable, enlightening experience can be accepting the chaos of not knowing, becoming aware of the problem, and acknowledging that the answers are not simple.
WHEN YOU TELL OTHERS ABOUT DGH, WHAT DO YOU SAY?
We tell others that there are helpful mentors and fellow entrepreneurs with whom they can talk to expand the scope of their business and build their confidence.

Building and managing waterways in Texas plays a vital role in water conservation by minimizing water loss from evaporation and runoff, while also helping to replenish the aquifers and raise the subterranean water table! At TNT Services, our extensive experience, commitment to quality, personalized approach and dedication to sustainability, makes us the ideal partner to bring your vision to life. What sets us apart is that we don’t just deliver a finished product - we create developments that add long term value to your community, exceed expectations, and reflect the highest standard of excellence in the industry. Together, we can transform your land into a lasting, functional space that will be enjoyed for generations to come!









PARTNERING WITH EXPERTS LIKE TNT SERVICES ENSURES YOUR HILL COUNTRY PROPERTY REACHES ITS FULL POTENTIAL THROUGH INTENTIONAL LAND EVALUATION, SUSTAINABLE INFRASTRUCTURE, AND LONG-TERM IMPROVEMENT IN USABILITY AND VALUE.
For many Hill Country landowners, purchasing acreage feels like the investment itself. The land is the prize. But owning property and understanding what the land can support are two very different things.
Sean Tenery, owner of Kerrville-based TNT Services Co., has built his work around that distinction. His company works with ranch owners, families, and land investors across the region to evaluate what a property might actually be capable of—not just what it looks like today. “Undeveloped land lacks sight,” Tenery says. “It lacks an experienced person coming out there and conveying what the capabilities are.”
The first evaluation is where most of the value decisions begin. Some properties need access routes. Some have existing on-site materials that can be repurposed to significantly reduce project costs. Others reveal opportunities for water capture, building sites, or restoration work that could stabilize the land in the long term. Often, the owners don’t realize those possibilities exist until someone walks the property with a trained eye. Tenery says his job is to interpret what the land is signaling and translate it into possibilities the owner may not have considered.
TNT Services often becomes the first call when a family inherits a property, buys land for family development, or begins thinking about long-term use. Rather than stepping in after a project is fully planned, Tenery works directly with landowners to understand their goals and assess what the land itself can support. Sometimes the priority is reaching a homesite or hunting area. Occasionally, it’s evaluating drainage patterns or addressing erosion issues. Other times, the focus is on identifying features the owner didn’t even know were there.
“On a basic scale, TNT provides infrastructure that gives access to your property,” Tenery says. “There is nothing worse than owning 3,000 acres and only being able to access 150 of it.” But access is only one part of the conversation. The larger goal is helping owners see their land more clearly—where water moves, where vegetation struggles, and where long-term improvements could increase both usability and value.
In the Hill Country, water shapes nearly everything. “Everybody wants water,” Tenery says. “Water is where it’s at when it comes to increasing value. It’s the source of life. If you have a wildlife ranch and there is no source of water, it doesn’t matter how much hay or how many feeders you have. The wildlife will not be drawn to it.”
That reality drives much of TNT’s work, but water isn’t the only overlooked factor. “We run into situations all the time where people have dry creek beds running through the property, there is no surface water available, there are erosion problems, mountainsides are decaying, and there is no vegetation,” Tenery says. “And all of it is sourced back to water.” In many cases, the land itself already contains the materials needed to support improvements. Understanding those signals can lead to solutions that improve stability, usability, and future value.
Tenery sees this type of planning as improving the asset itself. “It is an investment,” he says. “I have plenty of clients who have tripled the value. They bought land, we developed it, and they appraised it at three times what they spent on the land and our services. The other thing is that we are improving the environment for generations to come.”
That long-term perspective shapes how he approaches both private projects and the company’s future. Tenery hopes to begin developing properties in-house, applying the same principles from the start, rather than retrofitting them later. His goal isn’t to divide land into parcels and sell them off piece by piece, as other developers do. Instead, he wants to design properties where infrastructure, water systems, and land management strategies work together from the beginning to create something sustainable. Rather than raw acreage, he envisions properties that function as living systems—land that can sustain itself over time rather than degrade under pressure.
As growth pushes outward from San Antonio into areas like Boerne, more families are investing in Hill Country land with long timelines in mind. For many of them, the biggest return may not come from what they build, but from how well they understand the land before they build anything at all. Tenery believes that difference will shape how the region evolves.
Land can look finished when it's purchased. But in reality, it’s often just beginning to reveal what it can become. The owners who take the time to understand that potential may find that their most valuable investment isn’t in the acreage itself. It’s in what the land has been capable of all along.
tntservicesco.com
830-955-1857 | 1905 A Junction Hwy., Kerrville





Reverse your biological age and feel stronger, sharper, and more energized this year with our Longevity Protocol rooted in 40+ years of scientific research. Including comprehensive testing: Methylation & DNA, Cardiovascular, Inflammation, Hormones, Metabolic + InBody 770. Ready to see your true age — and change it?
Apply for the 12 Month Longevity Protocol at avita-wellness.com/longevity
Designed to help you detox, heal and regenerate while maximizing hydration and getting nutrients to the body with minimal waste.
Nutritional, Nad+, Ozone, Exosomes, High Dose Vitamin C With Magnesium, Herrmann 10/20 Pass Ozone, Methylene Blue Procaine, Nutrition (Myers +)

Ashley Evans, PA-C specializes in integrative dermatology, blending functional and allopathic approaches to uncover root causes behind chronic skin conditions. With years of experience in medical and cosmetic dermatology she creates personalized, non-toxic treatment plans that go deeper than surfacelevel care. Her approach is grounded in compassion, deep listening and her own personal healing experiences in functional medicine. She is here to help you feel confident in your skin - inside and out.
Consult with Kimberly in person to support long-term health, address chronic illness and improve well-being. We focus on practical guidance for lifestyle, nutrition and choices that impact your longevity. Gain insight into your overall wellness and learn how we can work together to address chronic disease and toxicity
BIO-IDENTICAL HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY & PEPTIDES
Ensure your body has the raw nutrients it needs to heal & repair with hormone therapy. Peptides can work to support weight management, gut health, improve immune function and everyday performance.
Experience the future of skin rejuvenation with NeoGen Plasma—a cutting-edge, non-invasive treatment that tightens skin, smooths wrinkles, reduces pigmentation, and restores youthful elasticity without toxins, lasers, or needles. Powered by nitrogen plasma technology, NeoGen stimulates your skin’s natural collagen and elastin production from the inside out.
Whether you want subtle tightening with no downtime or dramatic lifting with deeper treatments, NeoGen delivers. Safe. Effective. Regenerative. Your skin is ready—are you?









That’s why Fair Oaks Emergency Room has emergency care services available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Our emergency care team specialize in caring for patients with any acute illnesses or injuries which require immediate medical attention.
On-Site Medical Equipment:
Bloodwork / CT Scan / Digital X-Rays / Strep test / Splints / Ultrasound / Ventilation-Intubation
Respiratory Panel That Identifies 22 Respiratory Pathogens, Etc.
Emergency Services:
Abdominal pain / Broken bones and Sprains / Chest pain / Fever / Headache / IV Fluids & Medications
Lacerations / Respiratory infections / Stroke like symptoms / Urine infections, etc.


Explore how Cinnamon Shore’s walkable design creates a high-growth investment while providing the perfect setting for generations of family memories.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CINNAMON SHORE
Building a legacy sometimes begins where the pavement ends and the shore begins. We sat down with developer Jeff Lamkin and broker Jodi Peters to learn how Cinnamon Shore’s nostalgic design offers significant investment potential while fostering deep community roots. Discover this walkable coastal village that combines past, present,


and future for Texas families in the simple, timeless joy of the Gulf Coast golf-cart lifestyle. cinnamonshore.com | 361-749-1851
(Responses edited for length and clarity.)
Cinnamon Shore might be described as a “coastal village,” rather than a standard subdivision. How does the development’s foundation in New Urbanism foster a deeper sense of community and connection than a traditional beach development?
Lamkin: New Urbanism reflects a rosy era, when you could walk everywhere you wanted to go, where friends and neighbors said “hello,” and parks and playgrounds brought people together. Cinnamon Shore was designed as just that: a family-friendly, welcoming community for the modern age, all set on the sand of the Texas Gulf.
When you pull into a place like Cinnamon Shore, you feel a sense of welcome and warmth. The front porches and public spaces draw you in, along with easy-to-access retail and restaurants that are curated yet relaxed.
Everything is walkable. It’s about getting to know your neighbors. Traditions form year after year, and people want to return to experience coastal charm.
For an investor, Cinnamon Shore represents an opportunity in a potentially high-growth market. Can you tell us a little bit about the historical appreciation of Port Aransas real estate and how the community’s involved management and rental pool can help owners maximize their investment?
Peters: We've had steady appreciation year after year, with a few exceptions, such as around the COVID-19 pandemic. Early on, Gulf-front lots sold for $500,000, and now they sell for $2 million-plus. Our 2025 holiday tour home sold for $5.5 million. One homeowner recently told us the appreciation on his Cinnamon Shore property exceeded his expectations. There's still risk going into any new phase, but that's where you can potentially reap the most reward.
One thing that really enhances the prospect of owning at Cinnamon Shore is the on-site teams, like
“The guiding principle is the spirit of building a beautiful, safe place for families. A place where people can come, relax, and make memories together.”
—Jeff Lamkin, Cinnamon Shore developer

the rental management team. There's real value in that. Generally, some 2-bedroom condos can earn up to $80,000 in rental income in a year, while some of the largest-scale rental homes may earn upwards of $150,000 or $200,000 annually. The presence of our knowledgeable teams reduces investment risk by having staff here every day to address maintenance issues for owners and assist guests.
Let’s talk to families who are thinking about their legacy. How is the development designed to welcome an entire family, from toddlers to grandparents?
L: Welcoming whole families is exactly what Cinnamon Shore is designed to do. The homes in our beach community feature large gathering spaces built to bring
everyone together. They make memories on the beach and on the golf cart. They enjoy traditions like the 4th of July bike parade, the times spent walking together to our restaurants to dine. Many of the homes have multiple bunk rooms for children, grandchildren, and their friends. Elevators add convenience and accommodate those with mobility issues. On-site golf cart rentals can help with getting to the beach, carrying coolers and sand toys, and helping older adults get there. When it comes to legacy, our homes are built to last. Leaving a beautiful beach home is a special gift to pass on. More than that, owning at Cinnamon Shore is about building memories, starting traditions, and handing them off to the next generation.



In a world that feels increasingly fast-paced and digital, how does the “golf cart life” and walkability of Cinnamon Shore provide an opportunity to slow down for individuals, couples, and families seeking an escape from a more hectic routine?
P: Our golf cart community and walkable streets mean more time together, fewer distractions, and more positive interactions. It’s healthy time spent and at a slower pace. It's so nice to cruise the community in a golf cart, ride down the beach, or walk together to an on-site restaurant instead of getting into a car. Our team can even deliver golf carts to driveways ahead of your visit and pick them up when you leave. It’s so convenient and easy!
With the expansion of Cinnamon Shore South, the community's vision is clearly growing. Looking forward 10 or 20 years, what is the guiding principle for the development, and why should current owners and potential
buyers feel confident they're part of a community that will only get better with time?
L: The guiding principle is the spirit of building a beautiful, safe place for families. A place where people can come, relax, and make memories together. And we’re doing it thoughtfully, with intention and longterm planning, because we're here to stay. The success over 20 years has fine-tuned our business models, through good and bad times, storms, and a pandemic. The team on the ground here has had the same level of commitment to see it through.
There's a little more land, including some on the bay side with a marina component, that will complement our Gulf-front properties and offer a bit more variety for buyers to choose from. But, in the end, Cinnamon Shore is a 20-year-old brand that’s so special to all of us. We've worked so hard to build and cultivate it, along with homeowners and builders who truly see the vision for a new kind of coastal community on the Texas Coast.















Doug Moe of Teamwork Financial Group cuts through the hype to unpack the mechanics, risks, and rewards of some of today’s most talked-about alternative assets.
ARTICLE BY DANIEL GERTSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSHUA ALDAMA
In the ever-evolving world of finance, traditional markets are no longer the only players in the game. From the digital frontiers of cryptocurrency to the tangible history of rare collectibles, "alternative" investment vehicles are capturing the attention of savvy investors looking to diversify. However, with great buzz often comes great complexity.
To help demystify these modern assets, we turned to Doug Moe, founder of Teamwork Financial Group. With a background as a CPA and an attorney, Doug brings a grounded, objective perspective to the conversation. We asked him to apply four consistent questions to each asset class:
• How is this asset class defined in its simplest form, and what is its primary function within our modern financial landscape?
• What are the primary factors that drive the market value of this vehicle, and how does an investor typically track or verify its current worth?
• Are there unique tax implications or regulatory considerations that an owner should be aware of?
• What are the unique risks or barriers to entry associated with this asset, and how easily can an owner convert it back into cash, if needed?
Whether you’re curious about Bitcoin or bullion, we hope this guide provides the essential roadmap for navigating today’s alternative investment marketplace.
teamworkfinancial.com | 210-687-1333
8 Dominion Dr., Bldg. 100, Ste. 103, San Antonio
CRYPTOCURRENCY
Cryptocurrency—often referred to as “crypto”—is a form of digital money that isn’t controlled by any type of centralized bank or government. Instead, all transactions and ownership records are stored on a public digital ledger called a “blockchain.” Its primary function is to allow people to process payments between themselves without the need for a bank or a service like Venmo or PayPal.
Investors can track the value of their cryptocurrency holdings on an exchange where crypto is traded in real time. As for verification, that is tracked with a personal wallet ID on the blockchain.
Crypto in the U.S. is classified as property, which means it is subject to the same tax implications as other property. Just like any other piece of property, crypto is taxed when it is sold, traded, or used to purchase something. The taxes resulting from this are levied at the capital gains level. There are also many international tax considerations, as well as potential foreign reporting requirements.
With current technology, it is extremely easy to purchase cryptocurrency. There are many platforms and even smartphone apps that let you buy, trade, and sell cryptocurrencies (such as Coinbase, Robinhood, and Venmo). The ability to convert crypto back into cash depends on market demand for that cryptocurrency. Bitcoin, for example, typically has high demand, so it is fairly quick and easy to liquidate, whereas a smaller, less established coin may have lower trading volume and take longer to liquidate back to cash.
A non-fungible token (NFT) is a digital ownership record that, like cryptocurrency, is stored on a blockchain. They are one-of-a-kind digital assets that demonstrate ownership of specific digital media, such as music, collectibles, digital art, and more.
NFTs are traded on specific marketplaces, and the value is based on several factors: the most recent sale price (if any), the current highest bid, and comparable sales. Since each NFT is unique, its value is mainly based on opinion and other hard-to-quantify factors such as brand, community recognition, and rarity. Ownership can be verified on a blockchain in the same way cryptocurrency is verified.
The same tax rules that apply to crypto also apply to most NFTs. Some NFTs may be taxed at a higher rate
since they might be classified as collectibles. If you are creating and selling NFTs, these transactions are considered ordinary income. The regulatory environment for NFTs is in flux, as rules in many jurisdictions worldwide are still developing.
With current technology, it is very easy to purchase NFTs, just as it is to purchase cryptocurrency, thanks to plenty of public marketplaces. However, they can be very hard to convert back to cash, as the sale of any NFT depends on the demand for that specific piece of digital media.
Precious metals are naturally occurring, rare metals that have been used throughout history to make jewelry and technology, and/or function as a means of exchange. Think of things like gold, silver, platinum, and palladium. In today’s economy, the primary functions of these assets are to serve as a luxury and as a hedge against inflation and instability.
The main market factors affecting the value of precious metals are economic and political, with rising inflation and political instability tending to drive certain precious metal prices higher. Investors can track their current value on global commodity markets. Ownership can be verified through either direct possession of the physical asset or ownership in an exchange-traded fund (ETF) that tracks metal prices.
Rather than being considered standard commodities, precious metals are treated as collectibles by the IRS (more on this below). This means they are subject to a higher maximum capital gains tax rate of 28% when they are sold after more than a year (short-term gains are taxed as ordinary income). This applies to both the physical assets and ETFs.
Most precious metals are easy to acquire either by physical purchase or by buying into an ETF, and can typically be readily converted back to cash as needed.



Collectibles are physical items people purchase because they are historically significant, valuable, or desirable. This category includes a wide variety of items, including art, antiques, coins, stamps, and wine. Their primary function is to store value thanks to traits such as rarity, historical importance, and aesthetic value.
Factors impacting a piece’s market value can vary widely depending on the specific kind of collectible it is. In the art world, for example, the death of an artist can drive value. Likewise, the rookie card of an athlete who goes on to have a legendary career can appreciate significantly in
value. Value is usually tracked through appraisers, online marketplaces, and auction houses.
Gains on collectibles can be taxed at a maximum rate of 28%. There are also few regulations regarding authenticity, so it is usually up to the buyer to confirm a collectible is legitimate.
This category often sees higher barriers to entry than other asset categories. This can be attributed to many factors, including the high cost of established collectibles, the scarcity of valuable pieces, the higher risk of fraud, and more. Liquidity ultimately depends on the collectible and its current market.













ELEVATING A SIMPLE CUP OF TEA INTO A RITE OF CONNECTION, CLARITY, AND BEAUTY.
ARTICLE BY CONNIE TAPIA | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAULA VM


In the vast landscape of Texas, where wildflowers are scattered across open fields, and the horizon seems to exhale, something quietly extraordinary is unfolding. It’s not a trendy concert. It’s not an influencer-hyped startup. It’s simple. It’s straightforward. It’s tea. But not just any tea.
At Hill Country High Tea, founder and Tea Salon Curator Sarah Ripard is changing the way we experience gathering. She moves beyond small talk and busy schedules and creates space for something deeper. What begins with premium tea becomes a refined pause from the noise of everyday life. Expect fine china, curated selections, and thoughtfully paired offerings. It is about creating space to think, connect, and reset. Tea becomes the setting. Presence becomes the point. The message is simple and clear: "You are worth the investment.”
Step inside, and joy greets you in every corner. This is a place where tea sparks smiles, laughter, and little moments that feel unexpectedly bright. Cups catch the light, and conversation flows effortlessly. Each gathering feels elegant, warm, and full of life. “Hill Country High Tea exists to gently remind people that they are investable,” Ripard says. “Worthy of care, beauty, and attention.”
Tea is never just about the beverage, Ripard believes. Growing up in England, she says she often heard the adage “Have a cup of tea, you’ll feel better.” She realized, though, that it wasn’t about tea itself. It was about the pause, the breath, the return to oneself. That philosophy now pulses through at the heart of Hill Country High Tea, Ripard says, where life’s sweetest moments happen when we slow down and surround ourselves with beauty.
Across cultures, tea has long been linked to enlightenment. Tea rituals have developed into structured spaces that promote mental, physical, and spiritual alignment in Eastern traditions. The ritual of lifting
a cup, inhaling the aroma, and savoring the first sip becomes more than sensory pleasure; it becomes a gentle reset of the nervous system. Guests are guided to breathe the tea in, to notice the opening of the palate, to—as Ripard likes to say—“pour into the cup their own love, courage, and joy.”
“It’s about making the ordinary, extraordinary,” says Ripard. “When standards slip in life, we don’t lose luxury, we lose clarity.” But having tea gently restores both. Five or ten intentional minutes with a beautiful cup at home can shift the entire tone of a day.
The experience at Hill Country High Tea is designed to be fully immersive, rich with purpose and intention. Stories unfold, cultures intersect, laughter flows, and quiet pauses carry meaning. Guests arrive curious and leave renewed, having “raised the frequency of everyday life.” It starts with a cup, Ripard says, and moves into being. “Beauty becomes a language, one that teaches us and those around us how to move through the world with care.”
Our world may be full of constant notifications and busy schedules, but Ripard hopes her salon offers something different: presence. She says that how we speak, how we eat, and with whom we share tea are all small habits that color the canvas of our lives. So here, guests are encouraged to listen, to notice the details of their tea and treats, and to enjoy conversation that connects past and present. It’s immersive, but not overwhelming. Luxurious, but never too much. Playful, but grounded in purpose.
By design, Ripard hopes Texas Hill Country itself feels like a beautiful, grounded, and generous character in the story. She says there’s something about the landscape and the open skies of our part of Texas, and she’s created Hill Country High Tea to reflect that spirit. It’s community-based; there’s a seat for everyone at the table.
“Hill Country High Tea exists to gently remind people that they are investable—worthy of care, beauty, and attention.”
“Beauty becomes a language, one that teaches us and those around us how to move through the world with care.”

One of the more enchanting offerings, referred to as “Blooming Tea,” embodies the symbolism at the heart of the experience. As the tea twirls in hot water and the petals open in a graceful reveal, guests are invited to reflect: “What seeds are planted within me? How am I blooming? What nourishment do I need to flourish?”
Every detail, every sip, every shared moment carries a quiet, life-affirming truth. For a restorative moment, Ripard says you are reminded that slowing down, noticing beauty in everyday life, and honoring yourself are not indulgent but essential. In her space, teas bloom in majestic displays, petals twirl like tiny reminders of growth and renewal. Pastries offer layers of flavor and texture, small celebrations for the senses.
Likewise, conversations meander naturally, laughter warms the room, and quiet pauses invite reflection. Guests who arrived curious leave fulfilled, carrying the mindful intentions of the experience. Each moment is designed to create joy in oneself and meaning, and Ripard invites you to feel seen and to honor your worth long after the last sip.
You are worth the investment. You are worth the pause. You are worth the beauty.


Sarah Ripard, the founder and Tea Salon Curator at Hill Country High Tea, creates restorative, healing, and connecting experiences. Each seating welcomes a maximum of six guests.
818-648-6482
HILLCOUNTRYHIGHTEA@GMAIL.COM FACEBOOK.COM/HILLCOUNTRYHIGHTEA INSTAGRAM @HILLCOUNTRYHIGHTEA













That’s the philosophy CRU Event Rentals takes to blend vintage and modern and make every event memorable.
ARTICLE BY CAROLINE MITCHELL PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAULA VM
Let’s be honest. When you attend an event shaped by templates, packages, and standardized rental sets, you can tell. CRU Event Rentals in Boerne has built its business on a different premise: the most memorable events don’t reflect industry expectations. They reflect the personality of the host. Over the past decade, the company has held on to that ethos as it’s grown from a small, vintage-focused collection into a full-service event and home staging provider.
Its beginnings were humble, but stylish, says founder Laurie Love. “I really liked English and French china, and French period-style décor,” she recalls of those early days when the company focused almost entirely on vintage pieces, particularly Europeaninfluenced dinnerware and furniture. “If I thought something could work at an event, I had to like it myself before I’d buy it,” she says.
The small initial collection of china has grown into a 5,000-square-foot warehouse operation serving weddings, private events, and home staging projects across Central Texas, with deliveries happening as far away as Dallas and South Padre Island. As the business matured, CRU expanded its inventory to meet the practical requirements of larger events. The shift even led to a rebrand as CRU Event Rentals, signaling a broader service offering while maintaining its original identity. Today, the company supplies tables, chairs, linens, and neutral dinnerware alongside its vintage pieces. “We started with all vintage,” she says. “As styles changed, we added more modern pieces and the necessities that every wedding has to have.”





Its inventory now includes all the essentials for large weddings and gatherings. But CRU’s identity still centers on helping clients shape spaces that feel individual rather than interchangeable. That emphasis on personal taste—from oversized architectural elements to small tabletop details—has become a defining feature of the company’s approach and a key reason it continues to attract clients looking for ideas that are more fun and less formulaic.
“We have stained-glass windows that are 12 feet tall, and we get asked to take those all over the United States,” Love relates. “They’re heavy, and they’re not easy to move, but nobody else really has them.” Other large-scale items such as church doors, oversized windows, and upholstered seating require significant transport and installation effort, yet they
remain among the company’s most requested items. Vintage couches in particular continue to outperform newer inventory, even when modern alternatives are available.
Operationally, Love says she wants to be a hands-on partner rather than a drop-off supplier. She encourages clients to visit its warehouse, where they can view inventory, experiment with layouts, and build table settings before finalizing proposals. “It’s hard to see everything online,” Love says. “Brides are visual. It helps to see it and envision it. We’ll do mock setups and then adjust things until it works.” For events, the company handles the delivery and placement of large items and offers full table setup as an add-on service. And afterward, clients aren’t responsible for cleaning up before sending things back.
New in the past year: CRU expanded into home staging, applying its design approach to residential listings. Realtors typically specify which rooms need staging, and the company installs the furnishings independently. “They come back to a finished product,” says Love.
Though inventory and services have grown and evolved with the times, Love has held her core philosophy consistent. Rather than steering clients toward standardized event aesthetics, CRU encourages them to choose elements that reflect their personal preferences. “Anything can work if it fits your personality,” she says. “I tell people to pick what they want. Don’t worry about what anyone else thinks—it’s your event. If you want a velvet couch, I don’t care if it’s summer, by golly, use a velvet couch!”
That mindset aligns with the broader shifts in the events industry, where couples and hosts increasingly prioritize individuality over commercialization. Rental companies that can provide both practical infrastructure and distinctive design elements have gained traction, particularly in destination regions like the Hill Country.
CRU’s continued expansion suggests that demand for this mix of practical infrastructure and distinctive design is likely to endure. As weddings and events across Central Texas continue to emphasize individual style, Love’s approach positions CRU to serve both traditional and design-driven clients. And Love is so here for it: “Just pick what you love. That’s what makes it work!”

Laurie Love started CRU Event Rentals with vintage china and expanded into a full-service event and staging company serving clients across Central Texas. Over more than a decade, the business has grown into a large warehouse operation supplying both distinctive decor and the practical infrastructure required for events and residential staging. While its inventory now includes modern necessities, the company’s approach remains rooted in encouraging clients to choose items that reflect their own preferences. As weddings and events increasingly prioritize individual character over uniform presentation, Love’s mix of styling flexibility and logistical capacity enables CRU to meet every client’s operational demands and bring their creative vision to life.
crurentals.com | 210-364-2663





















JOS HUA CREEK RANCH AIMS TO BECOME A DINING DESTINATION THROUGH EXECUTIVE CHEF ROBERT KENNON’S APPROACHABLE BUT EXQUISITE CULINARY VISION.
ARTICLE BY REY LOPEZ | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSHUA ALDAMA

There’s a certain kind of quiet you only find in the Hill Country, especially after a day spent outdoors. At Joshua Creek Ranch, the landscape does most of the talking: rolling terrain, spring-fed water, and wide Texas sky, less than 20 minutes northwest of Boerne.



But the day doesn’t end when the hunt is over, or the sun slips behind the trees. It ends at the table, where the ranch has long paired its sporting tradition with unforgettable meals and hospitality that feels easy and unforced.
That dining experience is entering a new phase, and Executive Chef and Director of Food & Beverage, Robert Kennon, is helping steer it in a way that remains both elevated and unmistakably Hill Country. “I would say it’s straightforward,” Kennon says when describing the ranch’s flavor identity. “Everything… you don’t have to think about it when you’re eating it.”
Joshua Creek Ranch was opened in 1990 by co-founders Joe B. and Ann Kercheville, who built it around the outdoors and the idea that a great experience should seem seamless. Dining is part of the ranch rhythm, where guests are invited to stay on the property, slow down, and settle in. “The guests want to talk to you,” Kennon relates. “It’s very personal and intimate.”
Kennon’s story, though, begins far from Boerne. “I grew up pretty much on the ocean,” he says of his formative years in Hawaii, where food was part of daily life. “Fishing and catching crabs were always a part of my childhood. And when you have the fish and the crabs, you've got to cook them.”
Fresh seafood was constant, and so was exposure to different flavors. His high school, he said, was “about 98% Asian,” and spending the night at friends’ homes meant encountering cuisines he’d never seen before. A traditional Japanese breakfast with seaweed in the morning didn’t feel strange—it felt exciting.
The moment cooking became something more happened in tenth grade. Some friends were visiting, and his mom showed him how to make simple lettuce wraps. “When they took their first bite, their eyes lit up,” he recalls. “I realized that food brings happiness, and I was pretty good at manipulating flavors to create happiness.”
“I REALIZED THAT FOOD BRINGS HAPPINESS, AND I WAS PRETTY GOOD AT MANIPULATING FLAVORS TO CREATE HAPPINESS… AFTER 35 YEARS OF JOSHUA CREEK DOING AMAZING THINGS, NOW IT’S TIME TO DO THAT AND DO IT A LITTLE HIGHER.”


Before culinary school, Kennon was in college, taking prerequisites to transfer into the California university system. Unengaged with his coursework, he walked out of finals at the end of his second year and went to San Francisco, where he was accepted into the California Culinary Academy. However, he didn't tell his parents right away. “I tell my doctor dad, ‘I want to be a chef,’” Kennon remembers of the conversation with his father, a surgeon and U.S. Army colonel. “He was just like, ‘How are you going to support a family flipping burgers?’”
Culinary school introduced him to restaurant life, but the real education came during his externship at Jardinière in San Francisco. “When I got to Jardinière, it was a whole different world,” Kennon says. The kitchen was demanding, and he worked long, unpaid hours doing basic tasks—stocks, gnocchi, braises—learning how a serious kitchen operates. When the externship ended without a job offer, it was discouraging but clarifying. “This career, you gotta make it yourself,” he says. “No one’s going to hand you anything. The hungry dog gets the bone.”
After years of cooking across the country—including fine dining, corporate chef leadership, and private chef work—Kennon felt drawn back to Texas, where he spent childhood summers and has family roots that stretch back generations. “The Hill Country is so different and so unique,” he says.
When he was younger, Boerne didn’t feel like a food destination. But over time, he noticed a change—new restaurants, breweries, and a younger generation willing to try something new. “In the last eight years,” Kennon says, “the next generation are foodies. The new restaurants that are opening up are packed.”
In 2019, he moved to the ranch just before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, which changed his cooking philosophy. “I refined it to make it simpler,” he says. “In fine dining, you take something that’s easy and make it as hard as possible. Here, nice ingredients are the showcase.”
Kennon wasn’t looking to return to restaurants when Joshua Creek Ranch entered the picture. He was doing private chef work when he met Joseph Kercheville, the owner’s son, at a friend’s house. A conversation about hunting dogs led to the discovery not only of the ranch's proximity, but also of shared interests between himself and Kercehville. Once he saw it, the appeal was immediate. “We know how many people are going to be there for reservations,” he says. “It’s a set menu that changes every day, so it didn’t seem stressful.” And because guests often stay on property, feedback travels quickly. “The hunting guides come back: ‘They wouldn’t stop talking about the food,’” he says, smiling.
During hunting season, wild game becomes central to the menu. “Pretty much every night we have some type of game,” Kennon says, pointing to pheasant and axis deer as favorites. Some guests arrive unsure about wild game, often because of a past bad experience. Kennon sees that as an opportunity. “They’ve had it before, but it was cooked improperly,” he says. “Then they try it cooked properly, and it changes their mind.” Even with his Pacific Rim background, he is mindful of his audience. Hunting-season guests often want comfort—“the big steak… a potato”—so he introduces new flavors carefully, letting small touches add interest without saturating familiarity.
Joshua Creek Ranch has been doing what it does well for 35 years. Now, Kennon says, the ranch is exploring ways to intentionally elevate dining, particularly through special-occasion dinners that can draw guests from beyond the ranch. “They let me have free rein for these events,” he says, describing a fivecourse dinner designed to “knock people’s socks off.” The response was immediate, and guests loved it.
These events are a bridge, Kennon says; a chance to execute elevated cuisine in a relaxed ranch setting that’s close enough to Boerne and San Antonio to feel like a discovery. For him, memorable dining isn’t just about the menu. It’s about how guests feel. He pays close attention to allergies and


preferences, making sure no one feels left out. “That’s hospitality,” he said. “Doing whatever it takes to make the guests have a good experience.”
In looking ahead, Kennon returns to what keeps him here. He’s the eighth generation connected to the area, and he talks about his four-times-great-grandfather, Ferdinand Ludwig von Herff, and the pride he takes in cooking at the first homestead in support of the Cibolo Nature Center. “To feel that history,” he says, “and that I’m related to him, keeping his name alive; that makes me very, very proud.”
If he’s been pursuing the same goal since tenth grade— that food that creates happiness—Kennon hopes this upcoming chapter should taste like something guests carry home well after the last bite. “We get to create it,” he says excitedly. “After 35 years of Joshua Creek doing amazing things, now it’s time to do that and do it a little higher.” joshuacreek.com | 830-537-5090 | 132 Cravey Rd.
Ingredients
• 4 Axis loins, 6-8 ounces
• 4 tablespoons coriander seasoning (¾ cup ground coriander, ½ cup sea salt, ¼ cup black pepper)
• 6 ounces chayote squash, medium dice
• 2 French breakfast radishes, shaved thin
• 6 ounces Medjool dates, pitted
• 2 ounces (each) fennel and red onion, medium dice
• 2 tablespoons Marsala wine
• 2 tablespoons lemon oil
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 4 tablespoons water
• 1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped
• ½ teaspoon sea salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Extra virgin olive oil
Directions
1. Smoke the dates at a medium temperature with heavy smoke for 20-30 minutes. Cool in the refrigerator and cut into medium dice.
2. In a medium-sized pan on high heat, sauté the fennel and red onion in olive oil. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the fennel and onion have a little crunch and light caramelization.

3. Turn the heat to low and deglaze with wine, then add apple cider vinegar, lemon oil, water, honey, parsley, salt, and pepper. Cook on low heat for 2 minutes and turn off the heat.
4. Add the dates and mix well. Once the dates absorb the liquid and plump up, place them in a container and set them aside.
5. Season the Axis heavily with the coriander mixture on all sides.
6. Using a large pan on high heat, add ½ cup of olive oil and heat until the smoke point is reached. Caramelize the loins for 1-2 minutes on each side until medium-rare. Remove from heat and let rest.
7. Reduce the heat to medium. Cook squash for 3 minutes until tender, then season with salt and pepper.
8. Slice each loin into three pieces, then place them in a triangular pattern. Spoon the chayote squash into the center of the triangle. Place a dollop of date relish on half of the axis. Garnish with the thinly sliced radish, and enjoy.


























Investing for the future often means considering later phases of life. We spoke with Todd Mackenzie, Executive Director at Morningside Ministries at Menger Springs, to discuss the "Life Plan" model and discover how this strategic investment can stabilize costs and bestow the ultimate gift: peace of mind.
mmliving.org/boerne/menger-springs
210-734-1000 | 1100 Grand Blvd.
(Responses edited for length and clarity.)
AS A LIFE PLAN COMMUNITY, MENGER SPRINGS HAS A DISTINCT MODEL FROM MORE STANDARD ASSISTED LIVING. CAN YOU EXPLAIN THIS PHILOSOPHY AND HOW IT PROVIDES A LONG-TERM, STABLE HOME EVEN AS A RESIDENT'S HEALTH NEEDS EVOLVE?
Mackenzie: At Menger Springs, our model is built on the idea of “continuum of care,” meaning residents can move through different levels of care—independent living, assisted living, memory support, and skilled nursing—without ever leaving the community they call home.
This provides something incredibly valuable: stability. Residents form relationships, build routines, and become part of a community early on, and as their health needs change, neither their address nor their sense of belonging does. For families, it eliminates the stress of searching for new care settings during times of crisis. It allows aging to be a planned, supported journey rather than a series of reactive decisions.
ARTICLE BY DANIEL GERTSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSI EDISON
FROM AN INVESTMENT PERSPECTIVE, HOW CAN THE CONTRACTS POTENTIALLY ACT AS A HEDGE AGAINST THE RISING COSTS OF LONG-TERM HEALTHCARE, AND WHAT DOES THIS PREDICTABILITY MEAN FOR A FAMILY’S LONG-TERM ESTATE PLANNING?
M: Life Plan Community contracts are designed to bring predictability to one of life’s most unpredictable expenses: long-term healthcare. Depending on the contract type, residents may have access to higher levels of care at significantly reduced or stabilized rates compared to market costs.
In an environment where healthcare costs continue to rise year after year, this can function as a form of financial protection. Families can plan with greater confidence, knowing that a significant portion of future care costs has already been addressed. For estate planning, that predictability reduces the risk of rapidly depleting assets due to an unexpected health event and allows families to make more intentional decisions about preserving wealth, supporting spouses, or leaving a legacy.
Further, when adult children are acting as caregivers, it can create stress, fatigue, and sometimes even tension in the relationship. But after a resident moves to Menger Springs and has a comprehensive plan in place, that burden is lifted. Families can return to simply being family again—spending time together, enjoying visits, and celebrating milestones. It truly becomes a gift of peace of mind on both sides.
IS THERE A STORY OF HOW THE MENGER SPRINGS COMMUNITY HAS ALLOWED A RESIDENT TO LIVE MORE FULLY AND VIBRANTLY THAN THEY MIGHT HAVE IF THEY STAYED IN A PRIVATE OR TRADITIONAL HOME?
M: We see this transformation often. One resident moved to Menger Springs after living alone and becoming increasingly isolated following the loss of a spouse. At home, daily life had become quiet and limited, and family members were growing concerned about safety and loneliness.

“Research consistently shows that isolation is one of the greatest risks to health as we age. At Menger Springs, residents are part of a vibrant, supportive community that keeps them engaged and connected.”
“Residents form relationships, build routines, and become part of a community early on, and as their health needs change, neither their address nor their sense of belonging does. For families, it eliminates the stress of searching for new care settings during times of crisis.”


After moving to Menger Springs, everything changed. Within weeks, she had joined social groups, started attending fitness classes, and built a circle of close friends. She rediscovered routines, purpose, and joy in everyday life.
Her family often shares that they “got their mom back.” Instead of worrying about her, they now visit to enjoy time together—sharing meals, attending events, and celebrating life as a family again. That’s the true return on investment we hope every family experiences.
WE KNOW THAT INVESTMENT ISN'T JUST ABOUT MONEY, BUT IT’S ABOUT THE “HUMAN CAPITAL” IN OUR OWN LIVES. HOW DOES THE LIFESTYLE AT MENGER SPRINGS SERVE AS AN INVESTMENT IN A RESIDENT’S PHYSICAL AND MENTAL LONGEVITY?
M: The lifestyle at Menger Springs is intentionally designed to support whole-person wellness—physically, socially, intellectually, and spiritually. Residents have access to fitness programs, walking trails, and wellness services that support physical health. Just as importantly, they are surrounded by opportunities for social connection, lifelong learning, volunteering, and purposeful engagement.
Research consistently shows that isolation is one of the greatest risks to health as we age. At Menger Springs, residents are part of a vibrant, supportive community that keeps them engaged and connected. That social and emotional vitality is one of the most powerful investments a person can make in their long-term wellbeing.














ARTICLE BY CATHERINE STEPHENS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSI EDISON



THERE’S A LOT TO CELEBRATE AS PROMOTION
20
This year marks a major milestone for Promotion Physical Therapy: over 20 years of serving the Boerne and San Antonio communities with a mission rooted in movement, recovery, and helping people return to the lives they love. What began as a vision to provide high-quality, patient-centered physical therapy has grown into a trusted regional practice known for clinical excellence, compassionate care, and deep community ties. Over the past two decades, Promotion Physical Therapy has not only expanded its footprint but also strengthened its purpose—helping patients of all ages recover from injury, regain strength, and stay active.
From the beginning, Promotion Physical Therapy was designed to be different. Founders Drs. Justin and Melissa Martindale envisioned clinics that prioritized individualized treatment, strong therapist-patient relationships, and a culture centered on long-term wellness rather than shortterm fixes. As the practice grew, so did its reach. With multiple clinics established across the San Antonio region, Promotion became a familiar name for families, athletes, professionals, and retirees seeking expert rehabilitation care. But one area kept drawing their attention: Boerne.
For years, the Martindales had noticed a steady trend—more and more patients were driving from Boerne to San Antonio for treatment. That’s when it became clear that the community needed something closer to home. “We realized Boerne wasn’t just part of our patient base; it was part of our future,” the Martindales reflect.
When the opportunity arose a few years ago to secure a space in downtown Boerne, they immediately saw its potential. The building, rich with local character, offered the perfect opportunity to create a clinic that felt both modern and deeply connected to the community. It wasn’t just a business decision; it became personal, too.
The Martindales chose to move into the Boerne area, further enmeshing their lives in the community they wanted to serve. That connection transformed the clinic from simply another location into something more meaningful: a true hometown practice.
Today, the Boerne clinic stands as a symbol of Promotion’s philosophy: growth should always be guided by relationships. By placing roots in the community—both professionally and personally—Promotion has created a space where patients feel known, supported, and genuinely cared for. The clinic reflects the charm and warmth of Boerne while delivering the same highlevel clinical care the practice is known for throughout the Alamo City.
This blend of hometown familiarity and medical expertise has helped the Boerne location quickly become an essential resource for residents seeking rehabilitation, sports therapy, mobility support, and preventative care.
As Promotion Physical Therapy celebrates 20 years, the focus isn’t just on how far the practice has come, but on where it’s headed. Across all locations,



“By placing roots in the community—both professionally and personally—Promotion has created a space where patients feel known, supported, and genuinely cared for.”
the mission remains the same: to provide exceptional rehabilitation services that empower patients to live active, healthy, and independent lives. Whether helping athletes return to competition, guiding patients through post-surgical recovery, or supporting long-term mobility and wellness, Promotion continues to evolve alongside the communities it serves.

The San Antonio clinics remain the backbone of the practice, serving thousands of patients each year with the trusted care that built the company’s reputation. At the same time, the Boerne clinic represents something uniquely special: a place where the practice’s future and its community roots meet.
For the Martindales and their team, this 20-year anniversary is more than a business milestone. It’s a
celebration of the patients, families, therapists, and communities who have been part of the journey.
From its early days in San Antonio to its growing presence in Boerne, Promotion Physical Therapy continues to stand on one simple promise: helping people get back to the things they love—and back to them faster, stronger, and with confidence. As the next chapter begins, it’s very certain that Promotion’s story is still moving forward.
promotionpt-sa.com
830-331-1114 | 904 East Blanco Rd.















This is what weekends are supposed to feel like.










An exclusive Q&A with City Lifestyle

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
From championship trophies to global humanitarian impact, Tim Tebow’s journey has defied every standard playbook. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Tebow pulls back the curtain on the moments that truly defined him, from a humbling middle school church retreat to the life-altering shift of fatherhood. This isn’t just a look back at a career; it’s an invitation into the heart of a man driven by purpose. Read the highlights below, then join us for the full, unfiltered experience by scanning the QR code at the end.

Q: WE ALL KNOW YOUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS ON THE FOOTBALL FIELD, BUT TELL US ABOUT THE CURL CONTEST.
A: I was competing for my future high school team (my brother’s team), and I pushed myself way past what was smart. I ended up collapsing and needing medical attention. But what stayed with me wasn’t the pain, it was the lesson. Would I be willing to do something that others aren’t? For much of my life, I strived to bring my best for a game, but I hope that I can say at the end of my life I was willing to do that for things that actually matter.
Q: YOU’VE ACHIEVED SO MUCH IN SPORTS. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR GREATEST ACCOMPLISHMENT NOW?
A: Becoming a dad. Nothing compares. From the moment I knew my wife was pregnant, I felt a new depth of love for our child, but when you bring your baby home, the responsibility hits you like nothing else. Suddenly, everything you see, every decision you make, you’re asking, “Is this corner too sharp? What happens if she reaches that drawer?” It changes how you see the world and how you see other people.
Q: YOU’VE SPOKEN OPENLY ABOUT DISAPPOINTMENT, ESPECIALLY AROUND FOOTBALL. HOW DID THAT SEASON OF LIFE SHAPE YOU?
A: I talked a lot about that very thing in my book Shaken . We all go through moments where our faith in our abilities and purpose feels rattled, but I believe it’s often in those storms when God can show us who we could become.
Q: YOU TALK A LOT ABOUT COMPARISON CULTURE. WHY DO YOU BELIEVE COMPARISON HAS BECOME SUCH A TRAP TODAY?
A: Because we’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel. Social media shows people’s “best day,” often filtered and staged, and then we measure our reality against that. There’s a reason filters are so popular—it’s not real. We end up scrolling through images that don’t tell the full story, and without realizing it, comparison starts to steal our joy and our gratitude.
“We’re comparing our real, everyday lives to someone else’s highlight reel... comparison starts to steal our joy.”
Q: YOUR FOUNDATION FOCUSES ON THE “MOST VULNERABLE.” WHERE DID THAT CALLING BEGIN?
A: When I was 15, I met a boy in the Philippines who was treated as a throwaway because he was born with physical differences. That moment changed me. I realized God was calling me to pursue a different kind of MVP, not “Most Valuable Player,” but “Most Vulnerable People.”
Q: FINALLY, WHAT’S ONE THING PEOPLE MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW ABOUT YOU?
A: I have some weird coffee habits, which include protein powder, collagen, and cream all mixed together. I love golf dates with my wife. And every night, I bring snacks to bed to share with our dogs. It brings me more joy than it probably should.
This conversation barely scratches the surface. Tim goes deeper into the moments that rattled him, the joys of fatherhood, and one story he has never shared publicly until now. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on Share the Lifestyle Podcast.



















ARTICLE BY CONNOR MULLINS PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAULA VM
FIESTA SAN ANTONIO BRINGS AN ANNUAL CELEBRATION OF CULTURE, CUISINE, AND EVERYTHING THAT MAKES THE ALAMO CITY—AND THE HILL COUNTRY— ESPECIAL .
As soon as spring begins to bloom, it’s like this house starts to sprout, too. By late March, the walls of Charles Ray Francis and David Chavez’s home are covered with colorful paintings, cherished photos, precious artifacts, and tinkling medals, all of it a physical manifestation of their history with and love for Fiesta San Antonio. “My mother used to take me, my sisters, and neighborhood kids to the day parade, which is a real tradition that we did for years and years,” Francis says. “I still do Fiesta every single year.”



The annual festival, celebrated in the San Antonio region since 1891, honors the heroes of the Battle of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto. The story goes that a group of women decorated carriages, baby carriages, and bicycles before throwing flowers at each other, inspiring the name “The Battle of Flowers.” By 1895, the celebration had grown to a week-long event.
Today, the 11-day celebration includes three parades, over 100 events, and more than 100 nonprofit organizations that benefit from the festivities. Celebrations are held across San Antonio, and in Schertz, Windcrest, Alamo Heights, and, yes, even in Boerne.
The Texas Cavaliers marks its 100th anniversary this year by crowning their next King Antonio, and the El Rey Feo Scholarship Foundation will uphold their nearly 80-year tradition of supporting San Antonio students by crowning their own “Ugly King.”
As a spectacular celebration of vibrant artwork, music, food, culture, and traditions, the party generates more than $340 million for the San Antonio area and attracts more than 3.5 million people each year. Attendees can experience Mexican, French, Chinese, German, Cajun, Indian, and many other cuisines that have made San Antonio home.


It’s this blending of history and culture that enchants visitors and residents alike. And for Francis and Chavez, it’s kept them steeped in Fiesta's traditions for more than 50 years. “You have to embrace the culture,” Francis says. “You need to study the culture of it, why it brings so many different cultures together, and understand how so many different people have different backgrounds. Then you can get together, party, and have a nice time.”
Throughout the home of Chavez and Francis, there is memorabilia from their many years attending Fiesta events. From
Night in Old San Antonio (NIOSA) posters made in the 1980s to a wide variety of ceramic decor to shadow boxes filled with Fiesta medals, the duo thoroughly enjoys Fiesta's festivities. Fiesta history resounds throughout their home as the festivities draw near. “Every year I go to Fiesta, I look and see if there's something new and I purchase it,” Chavez says. “These are items we just started collecting because we have events at the house, and want it to be decorated.”
Chavez came by his love for Fiesta honestly. His mother, Estela, was a seamstress for many years. Growing up, Chavez remembers

Don’t let the 100+ events at fiestasanantonio.org overwhelm you. We’ve narrowed down the chaotic fun to the absolute essentials recommended by David and Charles Ray. So grab your cascarones, flower crowns, and get your grito ready—you’ll be puro before the first person shouts, “Show me your shoes!”
Oyster Bake (St. Mary’s University) | April 17-18 | oysterbake.com Texas Cavaliers River Parade | April 20 | texascavaliers.org
Night In Old San Antonio (NIOSA) | April 21-24 | niosa.org
Cornyation | April 21-23 | fiestacornyation.com
Battle of Flowers Parade | April 24 | battleofflowers.org
King William Fair | April 25 | kwfair.org
Fiesta Flambeau Parade | April 25 | flambeau.org
In Boerne
Texas Corvette Association Open Car Show (SJRC Texas) April 17 | texas-corvette-association.com
The Circle for Life Motorcycle Ride (Donate Life Texas) April 18 | thecircleforlife.com
watching her create dresses for several parade participants. “That was a lot of work,” Chavez says. “I don't know how, but she was a housewife and still had time to do that. So those are memorable times. She was an incredible woman.”
His medal collection also takes him back. Chavez’s earliest Fiesta medal dates to 1972. He has collected more than 200 over the intervening decades, and his most prized adornments are now housed in two large shadow boxes.
When they were younger, Francis and Chavez say they would attend events every night for all 11 days. Their Fiesta always started with the River parades, then NIOSA, Cornyation, the King William Fair, and more in a jam-packed celebration. “We used to be more active in San Antonio, but we have had our time,” Francis says. “We still enjoy going and doing events at Fiesta, but we pick and choose.”
These days, the pair loves bringing Fiesta home to Boerne. They ensure that plenty of food, drinks, and games fill the air with Fiesta spirit at their local celebrations. “Everyone’s getting better at what they bring,” Chavez says. “It grows every year. Everybody's busy socializing, having a good time, and that's what makes it so nice for us.”
Rather than just eating and partying, Fiesta San Antonio is about uniting the cultures that have shaped South Texas, past and present. For Chavez and Francis, history and art are the aspects of Fiesta that display that the most. “It’s not just about the party, the food, and the history,” Chavez says. “It’s also about the art. You learn a lot from people who were here in this town’s history. There’s a little bit of everything for everyone.”
























830.816.9633 | BRETT@HC-BE.COM BRETT POLVADO owner



APRIL 4TH
102 City Park Rd. | 10:00 AM


Antique tractors compete to test their strength and endurance for a crowd-pleasing pull at the AgriCultural Museum and Arts Center. Artisan vendors, blacksmith demonstrations, live bluegrass, and more are available for families to enjoy on a spring weekend. Food will be available, and attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, and anything else they may need for a beautiful Hill Country outing. theagricultural.org
33 Herff Rd. | 1:30 PM
Discover the beauty of growing and enjoying your own tea using plants suited for Texas gardens. At the workshop, you can learn how to use a plant calendar, harvesting techniques, and simple processing methods for brewing and blending. Participants will gain insightful and practical skills to create an inspired, productive, tea-worthy garden at home. Find out more at cibolo.org/ calendar/tea-gardening-in-texas
Hill Country Mile | 5:00 PM
Grab all of your friends and head to the Hill Country Mile for this festive spring shopping event. Guests can enjoy extended store hours, cocktails, music, and exclusive promotions at Boerne businesses. Check in to receive event merch and a map before further enjoying a perfect night out with friends in Downtown Boerne. Learn more and set boerne.org/diva-night.
APRIL 11TH
Music in the Cave | An
Evening with Slaid Cleaves
325 Kreutzberg Rd. | 7:00 PM
Singer-songwriter Slaid Cleaves heads to one of the most unique venues in Texas, where natural acoustics and stunning beauty flourish in an underground concert hall. The Throne Room at the Cave Without a Name hosts world-class artists in an astounding setting for an intimate and unique show beneath the surface of Boerne. Go to cavewithoutaname.com/ content/evening-slaid-cleaves-2026 for more information.
APRIL 16TH
Taste of the Nest
33 Herff Rd. | 9:30 AM
Families with children ages 18 months to three years are encouraged to explore The Nest’s magical nature-based learning community. This interactive experience offers opportunities to play, discover, and connect with families in the area while exploring the program’s unique emotional approach. Parents can learn more about the philosophy while their children enjoy hands-on learning. Get more information at cibolo.org/calendar/taste-of-the-nest.
APRIL 17TH
33rd Annual Texas Corvette Association Open Car Show
Main Street | 8:00 AM
Hundreds of classic, colorful Corvettes and other vehicles line up Main Street for a local Fiesta event, bringing energy to the Hill Country Mile. Visitors can stroll past vendors, food trucks, a silent auction, and award presentations while viewing a wide array of vehicles. Admission is free, making it a great time to experience Boerne’s main street and vibrant car culture. Get tickets at texas-corvette-association.com










APRIL 18TH
Movie Night at the Museum
102 City Park Rd. | 7:00 PM
Enjoy a free outdoor showing of Loving Vincent beneath the Boerne night sky. Presented by the Hill Country Council for the Arts, guests are encouraged to bring blankets or lawn chairs to settle in for a relaxing evening. The films are thoughtfully chosen and begin at sundown on the third Saturday of each month. Get all the information at hccarts.org
APRIL 25TH
33 Herff Rd. | 10:30 AM
Discover how everyday kitchen scraps and yard waste can be transformed into nutrient-rich soil in a free, handson workshop. This event is held during the Farmers Market and covers composting basics, material balance, and practical methods for all people. Attendees will leave ready to reduce their waste and improve garden health. Learn more at cibolo.org/calendar/ composting-workshop.
APRIL 25TH
3785 Highway 27, Kerrville | 6:00 PM
Classic casino games, dining, and entertainment highlight an elegant fundraising evening. Guests can enjoy a unique night out while supporting the Hill Country Crisis Council, which provides shelter, advocacy, and recovery services. Proceeds benefit programs serving survivors across the Hill Country. Get your tickets and learn more at hillcountrycrisiscouncil.com/ casinonight

ARTICLE BY SOPHIE BROCK
FOUR SIMPLE WAYS TO INVEST IN YOUR MORNING AND START YOUR DAY OFF ON THE RIGHT FOOT

One of the best ways to invest in yourself is by creating a consistent and intentional morning routine. No matter how unpredictable or chaotic the rest of your day may become, starting your morning with self-care and purpose sets a positive tone that stays with you throughout the day. Once you develop a morning routine that truly resonates with you, you’ll look forward to it every night, knowing it will set the foundation for a productive and fulfilling day.
If you’re ready to elevate your mornings, here are some meaningful ways to invest in your routine and start each day on the right foot.
One of life’s simplest pleasures is savoring a homemade coffee each morning. While skipping the drive-thru may be tough at first, brewing your own allows you to appreciate the process—and chances are, you’ll end up preferring your own perfect cup of joe.
An hour-long gym session before work may not be realistic, but a quick morning walk is. Use this time to clear your mind, enjoy nature, and listen to your favorite podcast or artist—an easy way to start your day feeling relaxed.
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, yet often the most overlooked. Setting your alarm just minutes earlier to prepare a fresh, nutritious meal can transform your morning, fueling your body and mind for a more energized and productive day.
Starting your day with a book is far more calming than scrolling through social media. Reading in the morning helps ease you into the day, providing a peaceful and mindful escape that sets a positive, focused tone for what’s ahead.

Joshua Creek Ranch
Texas Hill Country



“Every stay at Joshua Creek Ranch is excellent from start to finish. The lodging is always top notch—comfortable, spotless, and designed with a perfect blend of Texas charm and modern convenience. The food is consistently fantastic, with every meal tasting fresh, generous, and clearly prepared with care. The hunting is outstanding every time. The guides are true experts who know the land well, and the dogs are incredibly skilled, making each outing both fun and highly productive. Joshua Creek Ranch remains one of my favorite destinations, and I always look forward to returning. I strongly recommend it to anyone wanting great lodging, great food, and world-class hunting. It’s a place that delivers unforgettable experiences every single visit.”
C. R. | Orvis.com Review

















