Boerne, TX July 2024

CORDILLERA RANCH

Explore this private mini ranch inside the gates of Cordillera Ranch on this 15.92-acre slice of heaven. A fully remodeled home with incredible natural light throughout the home and a floor plan that suits every entertainers dream. This property has breathtaking and usable acreage with a full working horse arena, a 4-stall barn with plumbed water, a tack room, a shop room, separate fenced paddocks for the animals, a guest bedroom/ bath and a full barn apartment for guests. Swede creek runs through the back of the property and the property backs up to hiking trails with a close walk to the park for kids to enjoy.

Here We Go!

When I was growing up, “summer” was synonymous with “exploration.” It started by running barefoot through the streets and my friends’ yards. Countless days were spent meandering through the neighborhood; I can still almost smell the damp earthiness of the grass and feel the warm sting of the mild sunburn. As I got older, we got bikes, which meant my horizons broadened even further. I could spend actual weeks at the neighborhood pool and cruise to see friends who lived more than a few streets over.

Then the magic happened: I got a car. So far, I had been limited to a radius of a few miles from my house. But now, I could go anywhere! My little driveway was connected to almost everywhere—the White House. Central Park. The Grand Canyon. The Pacific Ocean! Unfortunately, it felt like my summer driving was mostly just to work, with the occasional sub-epic journey to the mall or Six Flags thrown in.

It’s weird how that happens, isn’t it? It sometimes feels like the more capable and independent we become, the less time, resources, and freedom we have to see what’s out there or follow our passions. “Adulting” comes with serious, valid, and even beautiful and fulfilling responsibilities. But it’s also important to mix it up, get a little uncomfortable, and remind yourself of how big life can be.

That’s the feeling we hope to inspire with this “Explore” issue. We’ll meet a Navy vet who got kicked down by life, but learned that it was down in the dirt that she could stand tall again (“That Off-Road Life,” p. 42). We’ll venture to a remote, mountain resort that’s committed to stellar experiences and preserving the wilderness at the same time ("The Long Journey to the Luxurious Wild," p. 36). Come visit an in-town market that’s broadening the horizons of producers and shoppers alike by reclaiming history (“Back to Our Roots,” p. 26); and discover all of the adventures that await you and your family… in the middle of downtown Boerne (“Exploring New Worlds Right Here,” p. 20).

Whether you plan to journey thousands of miles or travel just as far as your backyard this summer, we hope you feel like that earlier, adventurous version of yourself. Let’s celebrate getting out there, trying something new, and taking hold of all the life we can.

Onward!

July 2024

PUBLISHER

Tara Bové | tara.bove@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Daniel Gertson | daniel.gertson@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Jessi Edison | jessi.edison@citylifestyle.com

PUBLICATION DIRECTOR

Sophie Winterle | sophie.winterle@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Crystal Patterson | crystal.patterson@citylifestyle.com

COPY EDITOR

Rocio S. Teniente

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Rey Lopez, Brandi Jameson, Aubrey Matson, Mary Giacona, Caroline Heiberg, Daniel Gertson, Tara Langton, Brian McVey, Maren Wood

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Paula VM, Jessi Edison, Daniel Gertson, Kevin Cole, Mary Giacona, Jason Risner

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

DANIEL GERTSON, EDITOR @BOERNELIFESTYLE

city scene

1: Congratulations to the class of 2024 graduates from BHS and CHS. 2: The Rotary Club presented a check to the Hill Country Pregnancy Care Center in Boerne. 3: The Boerne Fire Station hosted many Boerne locals at their open house. 4: Boerne Handmade Market’s newest organizers had a successful first event and shoppers had a blast! 5: Congratulations to BHS girls soccer coach Jeremy Shannon for being named coach of the year. 6: The YMSL had their annual banquet celebrating seniors and the community service work done. 7: Congratulations to the BHS Baseball team for winning the Regional Semifinal Championship!

Ballroom Baths & Home Design

For more than a decade, Ballroom Baths & Home Design has been serving Boerne, San Antonio, and the Hill Country. The expertise and dedication of Trenton and his team help homeowners at every step of the remodeling journey—from consultation to design to products and even installation. You can rest easy knowing that you have a friendly, professional team on your side to help you truly make your home an experience.

Congratulations, Madison!

Congratulations are in order for Madison Moe at Teamwork Financial Group. She recently passed her Securities Exam and is the latest addition to their robust Investment Advisor Team. Madison joins the group of reliable experts who make it their mission to help each client feel confident and optimistic about the future. From wealth management to tax strategies to legacy planning, Teamwork Financial Group is here to give you peace of mind for life.

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United Texas Credit Union

From its first $85 loan in the 1950s, United Texas Credit Union has grown into the member-owned, nonprofit financial cooperative that many fam ilies and individuals call home. Today, anyone who lives, works, worships, and goes to school in Bexar, Kendall, Comal, and Tarrant Counties can join. United Texas now boasts six locations and more than 20,000 members but is just as dedicated as ever to delivering friendly service done right.

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ARTICLE

FANTASTIC ADVENTURES COME TO LIFE AS FAMILIES AND COMMUNITY COME TOGETHER AT THE LIBRARY

To lovers of the written word, a library is filled with pages of wonder for imaginations seeking literary escape. It’s a place where books line the shelves and a quiet atmosphere beckons. But at the Patrick Heath Public Library, this is only the first chapter of the whole story.

Located in the heart of downtown, the library takes pride in its central place in the community. From its humble beginnings 72 years ago to today’s impressive list of intentional engagements, the growth continues to flourish. “Our strategic plan has three primary goals—explore, enrich, and engage,” says Assistant Library Director Natalie Morgan.

“Explore” is designed to nurture the love of reading in all ages. “Enrich” promotes adult-centered learning through practical tools like technology assistance, Medicare navigation, and tax help. “Engage,” Morgan says, is where people come together. “This is a very good place for spirited discussion, as well as just good camaraderie.”

With summer in full swing, the calendar provides many opportunities in the Summer Learning Program. This year’s theme is “Begin Your Adventure @ the Library.” Events offer a myriad of activities, such as petting zoos and cooking classes for kids, teen movies, pirate-themed escape rooms, adult book clubs, and truecrime podcast craft sessions. Every day has an itinerary designed with the entire community in mind.

The annual Liars' Contest is one of this month’s most highly anticipated events. This competition between storytellers judges their ability to craft tall tales. Everyone in the family can listen in as grown-ups regale them with stories of excitement and adventure.

If your summer is already packed, don't worry. The library boasts a full calendar year-round. Regular activities continue throughout the school year, including adult book clubs, art classes, and the monthly Live at the Library concert series held at the outdoor amphitheater. “We’ve really become the hub of the community,” Youth Services Librarian Constance Keremes says proudly.

Boerne’s youngest residents can find multiple story times with the Book Babies program and the newly developed Rhyme and Shine. The Sensory Studio also offers a more hands-on approach, which is part of a program Keremes says is critical to the growth of young minds. “We’ve learned that by engaging our babies in stories and picture books, they are more likely to grow into a love of reading.”

Keremes and Youth Library Assistant Cassidy Kennell are passionate about providing a safe space for Boerne kids to learn and explore. They’ve recently partnered with Boerne ISD special needs teachers to provide a class for sensory-sensitive children. “We keep the class short, as we don’t want to overwhelm the children,” Keremes explains. “There’s an art station, and then we let the kids borrow blankets and a plush pal to snuggle with during story time.”

With the influx of young families into the community, both Keremes and Morgan understand the importance of providing services to not only the children but also the parents. The Family Place is a grant-funded program with exactly that intention. It’s a five-week course designed to teach parents how to play and learn with their children and provide one-on-one access to information from professionals like nutritionists and speech therapists.

Teens can also find a dedicated niche at The Hub. After-school programs coordinated by YA Services/Outreach Coordinator Leah Mayo take place in this space, lined with shelves filled with Young Adult books and a gaming area. One of the more popular teen activities is “Touch Grass Tuesday,” an outdoor cook-out held on the library’s back lawn every month. Mayo’s dad lends his grilling skills, serving hamburgers and hot dogs to over sixty kids. “All these teens are coming here to the library to hang out, never realizing that by doing so, they’re saying this is the cool place to be,” jokes Morgan. “That’s what’s so great about it. It’s our best-kept secret.”

Thanks to a generous grant from the Mellon Foundation, the library's future is looking even brighter. Redesign work begins in the lobby this summer as it transforms into an internet café. Plans include new furnishings, and the space will eventually host a coffee vendor. High-top seating will be available along the windows for a back lawn view to those using the work area. The funding will also help create a Public Memory Lab to digitize and archive Boerne’s history.

Summer can be an exciting and energetic season, so Morgan wants to ensure people have appropriate expectations of the library’s vibe. “We are not a ‘shushy’ library,” she laughs. “Sometimes people have to shush [the staff] because even we can get boisterous. We’re very much a happy, joyful crowd here.”

ci.boerne.tx.us/2295/Library | 830-249-3053 | 451 N. Main St., Bldg. 100

“WE ARE NOT A ‘SHUSHY’ LIBRARY… WE’RE VERY MUCH A HAPPY, JOYFUL CROWD HERE.”

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’...

Cutest boutique in Boerne! We carry a darling selection of women’s clothing, size inclusive, and kid’s clothing! We have a curated collection of costume and genuine gemstone and sterling jewelry, as well as an endless selection of gifts and must have kick-knacks. Stop by Boerne Hat Shop, a full service Hat Shop featuring Serratelli Hats.

SmartER FastER EasiER

Emergencies can happen anytime, that’s why Fair Oaks Emergency Room will have 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.

3 beds + loft | 2 baths | guest house | 20± acres Listed for $830,000 Scenic

This sprawling stucco home with a metal roof boasts covered decks and a lower level screened porch overlooking Brushy Hollow Creek. The upper deck off the massive master bedroom has outstanding hill country views. Open living, dining and kitchen areas are perfect for entertaining with beautiful yellow pine flooring. The unique guest house has a bed, bath & kitchen connected by boardwalk leading to private outdoor shower. Grassy & flat land along the wet weather creek surrounded by huge blue oaks, sycamore, and madrone trees.

ARTICLE BY DANIEL GERTSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAULA VM & DANIEL GERTSON

“Fresh, local food is nourishing to both body and spirit, cultivating a deep connection to the land and the farmers who sustain us.”

Back to Our Roots

The Boerne Farmers Market Reconnects Us With the Neighbors, Food, and Land That Give Us Life

One of the best things about life in a small(ish) town is how close you can feel to the people and places around you. But as Boerne continues to grow, some leaders in our community are intentionally trying to preserve that close-knit feeling and make it easy for newcomers to fit right in.

It’s in this spirit that the Boerne Farmers Market launched earlier this year. “My greatest hope for this market is for our community to embrace a farm-totable lifestyle, forging new personal relationships with local farmers, ranchers, and homesteaders,” says Dondi Persyn, the market’s director of marketing. The effort is grounded in the local market's significant role in Boerne's past. Back when the city was a hub for Hill Country farmers and ranchers, the Boerne Farmers Market was a reliable source for high-quality, locally-grown produce and goods, along with prepared dishes and specialty items.

Today, organizers hope it makes a vital link between the shopper and the farmer.

Lorie Diller, the community liaison, puts it this way: "What local farmers need the most is a collaborative community that values their connection with the land and their animals. They need to know that what they are doing will be sustainable and supported." By giving producers a chance to expand their reach, hone their marketing, and innovate, those farmers and artisans have the opportunity to grow, and that’s good for the entire community.

"Fresh, local food is nourishing to both body and spirit, cultivating a deep connection to the land and the farmers who sustain us,” says Market Director Lenore Ockerberg. That’s why the weekly event aims to foster a vibrant community that encourages collaboration and breaks out of the fast-paced consumer mindset to promote healthy and sustainable living.  “It builds community bonds and creates healthy people, animals, and soils. It is a system of true freedom."

boernefm.com | 580-229-5806

402 E. Blanco Rd.

Doug

Moe CPA, JD, CEO

RHINOS & WINE

Fredericksburg’s Rhinory Lets You

Experience Outstanding Wines and a Majestic African Friend

ARTICLE BY AUBREY MATSON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSI EDISON

When you want to see a rhinoceros, where do you go? Sure, you can venture to the San Antonio Zoo or Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch to see beautiful White Rhinos, or you can go even further afield to zoos in Houston, DFW, or East Texas. But what if you want to see the majestic beasts and sip a refreshing Texas Viognier, all while helping protect our two-ton friends?

“Blake absolutely loves the attention. He’s a people rhino.”

There’s only one place for that, and it’s just up the road in Fredericksburg.

Your destination for this particular excursion is Rhinory, the one-of-a-kind winery and wildlife reserve co-owned by husband-and-wife duo Craig Stevens and Chesney Castleberry. There, you can casually sip on world-class wines while observing Blake meander peacefully around the property.

Before you ask, Blake is the 4-year-old, 4000pound Southern White Rhino who calls Rhinory home. “Blake absolutely loves the attention,” said Stevens, “He’s a people rhino.” Blake is on loan from the American Species Survival Plan, developed in 1981

by the American Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The association aims to protect some 478 endangered species like Blake from extinction with the help of zoos and special reservations like Rhinory. Stevens said the entire process of getting Blake took over three and a half years. He reminds us, “It’s not like you can wake up one morning and decide you want a rhino.”

A vacation inspired the unique wildlife-vino concept the couple took to South Africa in 2016, but it wasn’t because they had an ideal experience. “It was during that trip that two rhinos got poached,” said Stevens. “I never understood the kind of dire straits we were

in, especially in South Africa, when it came to the rhinos,” said Castleberry. After witnessing the attack on the majestic creatures firsthand, Stevens and Castleberry became interested in rhino conservation and knew they had to do something.

“When we got back to Texas after our trip, I wanted to start a rhino farm,” said Stevens. “Ultimately, we came out to the Hill Country and combined the concepts of a rhino farm and a winery.” With that, the idea for Rhinory was born.

The ranch is dedicated to rhino conservation and directly supports the International Rhino Foundation. In fact, all “Rhino Experience” proceeds go entirely to the organization. When they book an experience, Rhinory guests can get up close with Blake and might even get to pet him. The Rhinory’s Rhino Reserve borders the Pedernales River, providing both a spacious habitat for Blake and a picturesque landscape to gaze at while sipping on a South African pinot noir. “At the Rhinory, we have a lot of different experiences,” Stevens says. “[Rhinory is] where the people that come in can experience rhinos, learn about rhinos, and be participating in conservation.”

“They’re incredibly special animals, and I just wish more people could see how beautiful they are.”

The Rhinory does offer walk-ins, but reservations are recommended—especially on weekends from Friday to Sunday. But, even if you can’t secure a walk-in tasting, Rhinory can undoubtedly set you up with some glasses or bottles of award-winning wine that you can drink while enjoying the view of Blake. You can even join the “crash” (it’s not dangerous… that’s just what a group of rhinos is called). The Rhinory offers a wine club membership called “Winos for Rhinos,” which provides shipments from four to 12 bottles. You’ll also get complimentary tastings—all while helping keep Blake and his buddies thriving.

Christine Bobko, the Senior Rhino Keeper at Rhinory, says that rhinos come to mind when asked what “beauty” means to her. “They’re incredibly special animals, and I just wish more

people could see how beautiful they are,” said Bobko. She’s worked with rhinos for over 30 years at zoos in Texas and Colorado and hopes to have more to do here soon. Rhinory expects to be able to host three additional rhinos to join Blake in the future once they add some more “rhino-proof” fencing. If Blake ever hopes to have a family of his own, he will have to grow. They say he needs to gain over 2000 more pounds before he and a partner can support baby rhinos.

Until then, Blake will continue to live his best life in Hill Country. As Castleberry puts it: “We’re farming some grapes, and we’re raising some rhinos.”

rhinory.com | 830-992-9526

13112 E Hwy. 290, Fredericksburg

Specializing

THE LONG JOURNEY TO THE LUXURIOUS WILD

Vermejo

Offers Distance That Gets You Off the Grid and Close to Adventure

The first thing you realize about Vermejo is how remote it is. It’s more than three and a half hours from the nearest commercial airport in Santa Fe, New Mexico. If you go private and fly into the closest town, you still have an hour’s drive ahead of you. Oh, and you’ll have to do the last eight-ish miles without pavement. See? Remote. The second thing you realize about Vermejo is that the distance you travel to get there is worth it.

Situated in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of northern New Mexico, Vermejo is an all-inclusive wilderness resort that spans more than 550,000 acres—nearly double the size of San Antonio and more than half that of Rhode Island. It’s part of Ted Turner Reserves, a preservation project the media mogul began to care for more than 2 million acres across the United States.

Archaeologists say indigenous groups first settled here around the Year 400. Tribes and cultures came and went, as did the Spanish and Mexican empires. In 1902, William Bartlett, a Chicago businessman, purchased more than 200,000 acres to use as an outdoorsman’s retreat and built the three central buildings on the property, two of which still stand today—Casa Grande and Casa Minor, now known as the Turner House.

In the 1920s, it changed hands and became known as the “Vermejo Club,” a private escape for the political and cultural elites like Harvey Firestone, Cecil B. DeMille, and Herbert Hoover. Over the decades, cattle ranchers, hunters, and fishermen used the ranch until 1996, when Turner bought the property.

Turner had a different vision for the land, one that looked more like the distant past. He phased out cattle operations and introduced an aggressive slate of conservation programs to restore the original flora and fauna. This work includes forestry, wildlife management, and stream restoration efforts that continue today. Thus, the remoteness and intimacy are intentional.

Once you do get here, you quickly begin to appreciate the solitude. A “full house” is only around 100 guests, so the population density always remains tangibly low. That’s wonderful when you’re hiking, touring, mountain biking, or riding a horse through the pristine wilderness. It’s incredibly tranquil when Kevin—one of the expert hunting/fishing/photography guides on staff—has you out on the water fishing in the early morning, the sound of the gentle chop against the boat or the river babbling by. The shooting sports complexes are the only loud places on the property. Other than the bar or dining room, perhaps.

The kitchen is helmed by Executive Chef Giovanni Lanzante, who—along with his outstanding staff—prepares three gourmet meals each day on a menu that changes daily. Come hungry for modern American with a Southwest flair; think local fish and game, ranch-raised bison, Hatch chilis (of course), produce from the on-site greenhouse, and a carefully curated selection of beer, wine, and spirits. If you want to make a special event of it, you can picnic by the lake, take happy hour on a mountain peak, or revel in the six-course “Opulence” tasting menu.

The ranch resort may lack neighbors, but it’s not lacking anything else. The staff, accommodations, activities, and scenery make you feel like you’re right where you belong.  If the first two things you notice at Vermejo are the remoteness, you realize the third and fourth things when you leave: how much you can’t wait to go back and how grateful you are to have experienced this place that may be remote but is also charming, historic, wild, and beautiful.

tedturnerreserves.com/vermejo | 877-288-7637

That Off-Road Life

Spend 15 seconds on her feed, and you'll already be captivated by Heather Joas’ adventurous spirit. You’ll see a life constantly searching for new experiences, wherever they may be found and wherever they may lead. While social media never tells a person’s whole story, little is left out. From the moment she first took the wheel of her uncle's Jeep, this Wisconsin-born Navy veteran felt destined to pursue a life of adventure. So now, Joas deploys her various businesses and spends almost all her time encouraging others to do the same.

"When I was sixteen, my uncle had a Jeep," Joas recounts. "I was a country bumpkin. I grew up as a farm kid. But I got to take the Jeep to the beach, and I thought that was the coolest thing ever. That's where my love of the Jeep started. I also grew up camping and spending time outdoors. I guess I just grew up in it."

Joas worked as a personal trainer in her youth and maintained an active lifestyle. Her desire for adventure led her to join the Navy, but not because she longed to be at sea. "It was actually the branch that would let me leave the soonest," she replies with a chuckle. "I had my son, and his father was out of the Army by the time we were divorced. I told him I always wanted to do this. So, I just went to all of the recruiters and asked them who could get me out with not a terrible job."

That meant Joas enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served as a Hull Tech on an aircraft carrier. Her team could repair anything on the enormous ship. But it wasn't long before one job changed her life forever.

“They took me off-roading, and…it was the most I had felt. I felt like I could be a bada** again; get out there and be tenacious.”

"I responded to a toxic gas leak call. I went in and don't remember coming out. When I came to, I was getting my suit cut open. They med-flighted me from the middle of the ocean to Balboa Hospital in San Diego,” Joas remembers. "What I suffered from then—and even now—is my autonomic nervous system not responding the way that it should. There's a disconnect now from where my nervous system regulates, for example, my heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure."

As Joas recovered, she wrestled with the prospect of giving up the adventurous life she enjoyed. But as is often the case, her friends proved to be her salvation. "I wasn't able to do anything on my own at 25. It was soul-crushing,” Joas says.

“But, when the hospital said I could sit up and go out for a couple of hours at a time, my friends got me out of the hospital and sat me up in the passenger seat of my Jeep. They took me off-roading, and I must tell you it was the most I had felt. I felt like I could be a bada** again; get out there and be tenacious."

Her next adventure was a long time coming. "I had always wanted to move to Texas,” Joas says. “I had some family living near Dallas and eventually ended up down here."

"Down here" is a strip of land near Bergheim. It's a perfect place for her 12-year-old Abel and 5-year-old Lorelei. It suits her love of the outdoors and hearkens back to her early years on a farm.

“You can disagree, still respect each other, and still live by your values. That’s okay. We’d all be much happier people if we could do that.”

This desire led Joas to focus on challenging people to discover who they are and what's important to them and find a way to build a fulfilling life. "Society as a whole lacks freedom because of their lifestyle. People may have core values, but they're not living by them,” she explains. “I'm not talking about everyone having the same values. You can have certain values, and someone else may have different values. You can disagree, still respect each other, and still live by your values. That's okay. We'd all be much happier people if we could do that."

Joas says knowing your core values is the beginning of true freedom. "My big push is to build freedom from living by your values, whether financially or by getting a different job that aligns with your values. You need to sit down with yourself and God, if you're a believer, and determine your values."

It didn’t take long for Joas to start sharing her love for life again, this time using social media to highlight her passion for off-roading and adventure. "I started posting off-road content, and it did really well, but I still didn't feel that's what I was supposed to do. I was missing that piece that wanted to share what off-roading did for me after I was injured."

When considering where all her adventures have led her so far, Joas pauses and looks down. "I have a tattoo on my foot. It means to find gratitude in all things, even the worst things. I look back and am thankful because I have a story I can share to help others."

@dirtpourtherapy | facebook.com/heather.joas

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STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY

100 STRONG

A New Group of Men Come Together to Give Back

There’s a new way in town for men to give back. They call themselves the Boerne100, and their goal is “not to be served, but to serve.” Nonprofit leader Breck Harmel talks us through the group’s roots, its goals, and what they’re doing to bless Boerne and beyond.

[Responses edited for length and clarity]

WHAT INSPIRED THE FORMATION OF BOERNE100?

We recognized that many men would like to be involved with charitable causes, but they might not know how to do so. After all, finding a cause that truly inspires can be challenging. So, we utilized a platform where busy men could come together once a quarter to learn about local charities doing good work and then contribute meaningfully.

DO YOU FACE ANY CHALLENGES IN BRINGING MEN TOGETHER FOR PHILANTHROPIC CAUSES?

Finding men who want to be involved has not been a challenge so far. Boerne100 is limited to 100 men, and we were at capacity within two days of opening our membership. So, I think that's really validated the need and the heart of men in this community.

WHAT KINDS OF ORGANIZATIONS DO YOU PARTNER WITH?

The charities we present to our members must be local, meaning they’re doing business primarily in Kendall or one of its adjacent counties. They must also be legitimate 501(c)(3) organizations and must benefit human causes. Our first $10,000 grant was awarded to Camp Discovery, a wonderful organization in Kerrville that sends children who have been diagnosed with cancer to summer camp.

HOW CAN PEOPLE GET INVOLVED?

Visit our website, boerne100.org. Any nonprofit that would like to be considered can fill out an application. People can also contribute financially or join our waiting list because we plan to open up to more members soon.

• 100 men gather for 2 hours 4 times each year.

• Each member contributes $100 per quarter.

• $10,000 is awarded to a partner nonprofit each quarter.

Counties served:

• Kendall

• Bexar

• Bandera

• Gillespie

• Kerr

• Blanco

• Comal

ARTICLE BY CAROLINE HEIBERG | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSI EDISON

OUTDOOR SPACES ARE THE VITAL AREAS WHERE COMMUNITIES GROW, FAMILIES BOND, FRIENDSHIPS FLOURISH, AND LASTING MEMORIES ARE MADE

MORE LIFE OUTSIDE

In an era dominated by digital interactions and fast-paced lifestyles, it’s impossible to overstate the significance of outdoor spaces. These zones are ideal for fostering community, strengthening family bonds and friendships, and creating cherished memories. These spaces offer a unique blend of tranquility and interaction, creating an environment where hospitality flourishes and relationships deepen. Utilizing outdoor areas, whether

JUSTIN & MARIAN ELLIS

We are situated on four acres. It’s not perfect, but we have always wanted it to be a place where friends and family can gather. We decided to live openhanded and with open doors; it’s interesting that when you don’t stress about ten or more families with kids running around, our friends quickly feel comfortable in our space. There is a beautiful chaos to it.

“LIVE OPEN-HANDED AND WITH OPEN DOORS… THERE IS A BEAUTIFUL CHAOS TO IT.”

a backyard, garden, pool, or greenhouse, can transform the dynamics of social interactions, enhancing the quality of life and strengthening our social fabric.

For co-owners Justin and Marian Ellis and Austin and Sarah Thompson of Outer Space Pools, these spaces are designed to create lasting memories. That’s a huge reason why they do what they do and why they and their friends want to encourage others to make the most of their outdoor areas. We spoke with three local families to get their ideas on how to better utilize our space to build community and connection this summer.

From up on a hill, we can see Comfort, Boerne, San Antonio, and Leon Springs, so it's a great place to watch fireworks on the Fourth of July or New Year's Eve. We have done everything from ziplines to sack races, trampolines to barbecues. Our pool is old, and it’s not perfect, but we maintain it. You don’t have to have the top-ofthe-line for kids to have fun; they keep coming back. Life can get hectic, but brisket cookouts listening to George Strait or teaching little ones how to use sparklers… are the memories that stick with you.

BRIAN & KRISTEN HUTCHENS

Landscaping and gardening have always been a part of who we are. Over time, we narrowed our vision to creating rooms within our yard for interest and enjoyment. We feel if the space is inviting and beautiful, people will want to linger to share a glass of wine or play a game of bocce ball.

In the upper yard, we have a pool, a hot tub, and a patio with a fireplace. When our adult children and our families come for a visit, a pool party can easily turn into a dinner party on the lawn with a roaring fire in the background. On the lower lawn, our newest addition is a greenhouse surrounded by garden beds. We plan to grow flowers and vegetables and host more birthdays, luncheons, and a wedding in the future. Our yard is an extension of our home, and we love how it extends our way of living and entertaining.

MATT & BECKY SURBER

Our backyard and pool have become the heart of our home, providing us with endless opportunities to entertain and connect with others. Throughout the year, we host a variety of events that bring together our community. From neighborhood parties that welcome up to 150 people to church events to intimate gatherings with friends, our outdoor space accommodates them all.

The pool acts as a central attraction, offering a refreshing escape from the summer heat and a focal point for socializing. However, the versatility of our backyard space allows us to cater to different occasions. We have a spacious patio with comfortable seating areas for conversations and dining, a barbecue station for outdoor cooking, and a fire pit for cozy evenings under the stars. Our outdoor space has truly become an extension of our home, where laughter, conversations, and connections flourish.

“OUTDOOR SPACE [IS]

TIPS TO MAXIMIZE OUTDOOR SPACES

• Design With Purpose. Create distinct areas for different activities, such as dining, lounging, and playing.

• Incorporate Nature. Use plants, flowers, and natural elements to enhance the aesthetic appeal and create a tranquil environment.

• Comfort Is Key. Invest in comfortable seating and adequate shade to ensure guests feel relaxed and enjoy their time outdoors.

• Lighting Matters. Use outdoor lighting to extend the usability of the space into the evening. String lights, lanterns, and solar lights can add ambiance.

• Add Entertainment. Incorporate outdoor games, a music system, or a projector for movie nights.

BUSINESS INFO

830-875-0555

outerspaceservice.com

MAKING SURE YOUR DOORS AND WINDOWS KEEP THE HEAT OUT IS THE KEY TO A COOL SUMMER

Indoors & Outdoors

ARTICLE BY TARA LANGTON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DANIEL GERTSON

We spend a lot of time in our homes, especially in the summer when escaping the heat. But without the right doors and windows, the outdoor spaces you love and want to use can feel far away. Lindsay and Travis Hanson of Window World know that problem and are eager to help homeowners solve it. With summer in full swing, they say it can quickly become apparent that your existing windows and doors may not be up to the challenge these Texas summers can pose.

“If you start to see fogging between the panes of glass, or if you can feel extreme heat or cold coming through,” Lindsay says, you’ll know you’re in trouble.

“If windows won’t open or patio doors are hard to open, then it’s time to consider new ones.” Heat isn’t the only thing people want to keep out. “More people are trending toward patio doors since we have bugs in Texas,” Travis says. People with sliding doors can also add screens to cut down on the tiny invaders.

While heat and bugs need to be kept out, there’s one thing homeowners want to keep in: their money.

“One of the most important things customers value is energy efficiency,” Travis points out. That’s why he, Lindsay, and the rest of their expert team make it their mission to outfit homes with the right pieces that fit anyone’s needs, budget, and style. “We always sold the F-150s of windows,” says Travis, “and we sell the Lamborghinis of windows too.”

CONTINUED >

Window World has long been a family company, and Lindsay represents the fourth generation to serve the community. The company started in San Antonio as Brickstone in 1947 and made a name for itself after its siding product performed well when Hurricane Celia struck Corpus Cristi in 1970. Under the leadership of Lindsay’s parents, Martin and Debbie Bomba added the nationwide strength of the Window World franchise in 2003. Today, the company has showrooms in San Antonio, Corpus Christi, and New Braunfels, and Martin and Debbie continue to lead their family business into the future.

It’s also business with a greater purpose at Window World. During the infamous Texas ice storm of 2021, the folks at the company were determined to help. They gave thousands of dollars to help their neighbors cover their suddenly sky-high utility bills. They regularly contribute to local fairs and sponsor athletic programs in their communities. As the COVID-19 pandemic raged, they turned their parking lot into an outdoor gathering place by hosting a food truck and providing space to spread out and safely hang out.

There’s no longer a need to spread out this summer, but there will be many opportunities to hang out with friends and loved ones. Lindsay and Travis are excited to help homeowners stay up-to-date and elevate the look and feel of their homes, especially with Windsor's new architectural series collection. Keep the transition between indoor and outdoor spaces smooth, and you’ll stay as cool as the summer breeze.

windowworldtx.com

210-446-0080 (San Antonio) 830-243-6889 (New Braunfels)

“Thanks

HIS HISTORY.

LEGACY. Your

GRAND ESTATE LIVING IN THE HEART OF BOERNE

ARTICLE BY MAREN WOOD

BY JASON RISNER

Take a short, five-minute drive from Boerne’s captivating Main Street, and you’ll find George’s Ranch, an exciting new gated community offering upscale privacy and opulence that’s built on history. Spanning over 1,140 acres of picturesque terrain, the community gets its name from the same man Kendall County does: legendary Texas pioneer, George Wilkins Kendall.

More than just another Hill Country community, George’s Ranch is truly a one-of-a-kind piece of Texas history. The location along Highway 46 is the original homestead of Kendall, his wife Adeline, and their four children when they first moved to Boerne in the mid1850s. Every street and intricate detail of George’s Ranch was proudly designed by the developer, The Lookout Group, to uphold the homestead’s heritage and preserve the many historical sites nestled throughout the property.

George’s Ranch hosts two premier neighborhoods: The Homestead and Adeline. The Homestead offers luxurious wide-bodied homes by hand-selected builder partners Toll Brothers, Perry, and Monticello. From the graceful curves of long, meandering driveways to the expansive al fresco entertaining spaces, every aspect of the homes in The Homestead has been thoughtfully crafted to elevate Hill Country living to new heights.

For those seeking an experience of unlimited imagination and personalization, Adeline is the custom home neighborhood within George’s Ranch. Tucked behind a dedicated gate, Adeline offers acreage homesites and the ability to select and collaborate with the custom builder of your choice. The first phase of estate homesites will be released later this summer.

All George’s Ranch homeowners will enjoy prewired access to fiber optic internet, ensuring a modern lifestyle that complements the rich history of its extraordinary setting. The community is in Boerne ISD, so residents can enjoy top-ranked public schools just minutes from their doorstep. Additionally, George’s Ranch has been selected as the host of the prestigious Greater San Antonio Builder Association’s Parade of Homes, scheduled for May of next year.

“Our passion for excellence drives us to honor the past while building for the future.” —Mike Siefert, President of The Lookout Group

Now is the time to embrace upscale privacy blended with the charm of small-town living and the indomitable spirit of Texas. At George’s Ranch, your very own backyard encapsulates a Lone Star story unlike any other.

georgesranch.com | info@georgesranch.com

A LIVING EDUCATION: DISCOVERING THE AMBLESIDE WAY

One of Boerne’s Top Private Schools Celebrates 11 Years of Seeing Children Flourish in the Classroom and in Life

ARTICLE BY BRIAN MCVEY

At Ambleside School of Boerne, there’s a commitment to personalized growth and academic excellence that’s almost tangible. The ethos permeates every facet of the educational journey from Pre-K through 8th grade. Here, a Christian education means that specific denominational doctrines are secondary to relating to each child and parent with the love of Jesus and challenging everyone to grow deeper in their faith—all while being empowered with the best, most robust education possible.

Because teachers and staff recognize each student's inherent value as God’s creation, individual weaknesses are built up, responsibilities are stewarded, and gifts are encouraged and celebrated. Mentors and parents partner to educate their children in a shame-free learning environment where each student can thrive academically, emotionally, and spiritually in the context of community.

The Ambleside approach to education began more than 100 years ago with the work of Charlotte Mason. This British educator and author dedicated herself to fostering what she termed a "living education." She meticulously crafted an educational framework centered on creating an optimal learning environment, nurturing harmonious interpersonal dynamics and routines, and exposing students to the profound insights of the world's leading scholars.

In 1999, Ambleside emerged as a pioneering institution and educational incubator dedicated to a learning reformation inspired by Mason's educational principles. The “Ambleside Method” took shape as Maryellen Marschke St. Cyr, an experienced school principal and author of When Children Love to Learn , and her husband, Dr. Bill St. Cyr, played a pivotal role in catalyzing the movement from its operational hub in Fredericksburg, Texas.

Today, Ambleside schools serve as educational sanctuaries for pupils and pedagogical havens for parents and educators alike.

Over the last quarter century, the faculty has trained over 2,000 educators and parents from North and South America, Africa, and Europe. In close collaboration with local schools, Ambleside Schools International offers training and mentorship to educators eager to delve deeper into Charlotte Mason’s philosophy and the Ambleside Method of education.

In Boerne, Ambleside School has become a steadfast presence in the community. Under the leadership of Melinda Boshears, the institution strives to nurture a comprehensive, holistic learning experience for children. Students from diverse backgrounds and all parts of the Hill Country—including Boerne, Fair Oaks Ranch, Comfort, San Antonio, Helotes, and Pipe Creek— converge upon Ambleside of Boerne to grow together. Families who are about to embark upon their educational journey or anyone who is looking to make a shift in direction are invited to explore the opportunities Ambleside has to offer. Class sizes are intentionally limited to 16 students per cohort to ensure personalized attention and a warm, supportive community of families. Still, openings are available as the school seeks to expand its availability and open its arms to share with more students its outstanding academic opportunities and the love of Christ.

amblesideboerne.com | 830-388-8865 210 Turner Ave.

All children deserve to become mature, passionate learners who know, and who also care.

Ambleside students build the skills needed to live well in all aspects of life personal and professional, present and future.

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1677 River Road, Ste.103, Boerne

Cool Smoothies For a Chill Summer

BEAT THE SUMMER HEAT WITH SMOOTHIE RECIPES FROM A CERTIFIED HOLISTIC HEALTH COACH AND LONG-TIME FOODIE

ARTICLE BY MARY GIACONA

PHOTOGRAPHY

BY

MARY GIACONA & PAULA VM

Blueberry

INGREDIENTS

(serves 2)

• 1 cup wild blueberries, frozen

• 1 cup organic peaches, frozen

• 1 cup coconut water (no additives or sugars)

• Handful of fresh basil, washed and dried

• Pinch of sea salt

• Medium squeeze of local, unfiltered honey to taste

• Shredded coconut for garnish

DIRECTIONS

1. Put all ingredients (except garnish) in a high-powered blender and blend on high.

2. To achieve the desired consistency, add more coconut water a splash at a time, and stir to incorporate.

3. Taste the mixture and add honey a drop at a time if you prefer more sweetness.

4. Sprinkle with shredded coconut and serve.

NOTES: Use wild blueberries for maximum antioxidants, and avoid conventional peaches since pesticide exposure is usually high. Make sure the ingredients on the coconut water only read “Coconut Water.”

Green Goddess Smoothie

(serves 2)

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup organic spinach, pre-washed and uncooked

• 1/2 avocado, peeled and pitted

• 2 dates, pitted

• 1 spoonful of pumpkin seed butter

• 1 teaspoon spirulina

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1 frozen banana

• 1 cup grass-fed cow's milk (full fat) or your favorite alternative

• Pumpkin seeds for garnish

DIRECTIONS

1. Put all ingredients (except garnish) in a high-powered blender and blend on high until smooth.

2. Pour into jars, and top with pumpkin seeds for additional nutritional benefits.

NOTE: The avocado can be frozen to give it a more “frosty” feel. Be sure to peel and pit it before freezing.

PB-Cacao-Espresso Smoothie

(serves 2)

INGREDIENTS

• 1 organic banana, peeled and frozen

• 2 spoonfuls of organic, unsweetened peanut butter

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

• 1/4 cup cacao powder

• 1/2 cup oat milk (no additives)

• 1/2 cup organic coffee or cold brew, room temperature

• Pinch of sea salt

• Dried goji berries for garnish

DIRECTIONS

1. Put all ingredients (except garnish) in a high-powered blender and blend on high, stirring as necessary until smooth.

2. Pour into a glass jar, and garnish with goji berries for an extra boost of vitamin C.

NOTES: Use unsweetened peanut butter with only “peanuts” in the ingredient list. I like Valencia from Trader Joe’s because it has a lower mold count than other brands. Do not use cocoa powder, as this is more processed and less nutrient-dense.

Mango Mint Refresher

(contains alcohol) (serves 2)

• 10 ounces of organic mango, frozen

• 1/2 cup of pineapple juice

• Juice of 1 lime

• 7-8 fresh mint leaves

• Heavy squeeze of local, unfiltered honey to taste INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup organic pinot grigio

DIRECTIONS

1. Put all ingredients in a high-powered blender and blend on high until smooth.

2. Spoon into wine glasses, and serve chilled with a sprig of mint for garnish. Cheers!

NOTE: To make this NA, swap the wine for coconut water or additional pineapple juice.

Find me on Instagram at @sunshineandseasalt and in the monthly newsletter for the Boerne Farmers Market.

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SKYVIEW

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DIY Your Way To a Bug-Free Summer

Adult- and Kid-Friendly Natural Bug Repellents from A Beautiful Mess

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY A BEAUTIFUL MESS

Adult Blend Kids Blend

(age 15 and over)

MATERIALS:

• 10 drops lemon essential oil

• 10 drops lemongrass essential oil

• 8 drops lavender essential oil

• 8 drops eucalyptus essential oil

• 1.5 ounces distilled water (minus 1 teaspoon to make room for the essential oils in the bottle)

• .5 ounce 95% proof grain alcohol*

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a 2-ounce spray bottle, add the grain alcohol (or Solubol) and drop in essential oils. Swirl to combine. Place the cap back on the bottle. Allow the oils to disperse in the alcohol for about 1 hour, then add distilled water, swirling again to combine.

MATERIALS:

• 10 drops lemon essential oil

• 10 drops lemongrass essential oil

• 4 drops lavender essential oil

• 1.5 ounces distilled water (minus 1 teaspoon to make room for the essential oils in the bottle)

• .5 ounce 95% proof grain alcohol*

INSTRUCTIONS:

In a 2-ounce spray bottle, add the grain alcohol (or Solubol) and drop in essential oils. Swirl to combine. Place the cap back on the bottle. Allow the oils to disperse in the alcohol for about 1 hour, then add distilled water, swirling again to combine.

*The grain alcohol is used as a preservative as well as a carrier for the oils, but you can also use a product like this instead of grain alcohol at a 1:4 ratio (1 drop essential oil to 4 drops Solubol) if you’d rather and then just fill the rest with water to fill the 2-ounce spray bottle.

While there can be concern about citrus oils on the skin when exposed to sunlight, lemongrass isn’t a photosensitive oil, and if lemon essential oil is steam-distilled rather than cold-pressed (Oui Fresh essential oils are cold-pressed) it can be used on the skin. So just make sure to note which one your lemon oil is and only spray on clothes if you don’t have a skin-safe lemon oil (which is an application method a lot of people prefer anyway if they are more sensitive to oils).

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events

JULY 6TH

An Americana Evening with Nashville's Duo Goldpine

Cave Without a Name, 325 Kreutzberg Rd. | 7:30 PM

Goldpine will perform their original Americana tunes inside Cave Without a Name. Goldpine is the winner of the 2022 Rocky Mountain Songwriter Contest. Tickets can be purchased prior to the event for $35 or at the door for $40. For more information, visit cavewithoutaname.com

JULY 6TH

Honey Creek Guided Walk at Guadalupe River State Park

3350 Park Rd. 31, Spring Branch | 9:00 AM

A guided two-mile tour of the natural area is offered most Saturdays and Sundays. You’ll hear about the history, geology, plants, and animals of this special place. The trail is about two miles long and moderate in difficulty. The tour is free with entrance into the park, and you can find out more at tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/honey-creek/park_events

JULY 10TH

Nature & Art Summer Camp at The Cibolo

140 City Park Rd. | 9:00 AM

Join a weekly adventure camp at Cibolo Nature Center. Campers will play games, do STEM activities, hike, learn archery, sing camp songs, and more. Through these activities, they’ll challenge themselves, have fun, and learn about the natural world around them. Weekly day camp sessions for ages 5-12 are available all month. Learn more at cibolo.org/programs/camp

JULY 13TH

Boerne Market Days

Main Plaza, 100 N. Main St. | 10:00 AM

Spend the morning at the market every weekend! Boerne Market Days offers great shopping in an outdoor setting with artists, craftsmen, and vendors sharing their creative talents. For a unique Hill Country experience, spend a day browsing the market and visiting the boutiques, galleries, and restaurants downtown. Find more information at ci.boerne.tx.us/1734/Boerne-Market-Days

JULY 20TH

Moondance Outdoor Concert

140 City Park Rd. | 7:00 PM

Come join guests under the stars for a marvelous night of live music, dancing, stories and celebration at The Cibolo. It's a night under the oaks and stars featuring The Randy Carson Band. You can buy tickets in advance or at the door for $15 per person. Go to cibolo.org/ calendar/moondance-july-2024

JULY 27TH

Live Music at Pure Country BBQ & Grill

1481 S. Main St. | 6:30 PM

Head out to Pure Country BBQ & Grill on Saturday night for live music, good food and drinks, and the perfect place to let the kids run around and play. Live music happens most Friday and Saturday evenings. For current lineups, you can check out purecountryboerne.com