Images Boerne, TX: 2010

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More Than An ActCommunity theater group keeps spotlight on performing arts

OLD-WORLD CUISINEAuthentic dishes delight the palate

HERE’S WHEREARTISTS THRIVE

What’s Online inennnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnneeeeeeeeeStroll through historic downtown Boerne

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2010 EDITION | VOLUME 5

BOERNE, TEXAS

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

BOERNE BUSINESS 26 Higher Education Expands

in the Hill CountryLearning opportunities close to home.

30 Biz Briefs

32 Chamber Report

33 Economic Profi le

DEPARTMENTS

6 Almanac: a colorful sampling of Boerne’s culture

20 Portfolio: people, places and events that defi ne Boerne

34 Image Gallery

39 Health & Wellness

41 Sports & Recreation

44 Community Profi le: facts, stats and important numbers to know

CONTENTS

FEATURES

8 HERE’S WHERE ARTISTS THRIVEThe arts help defi ne Boerne’s personality.

12 NATURAL TREASURESLocal nature centers and parkspreserve rich, native heritage.

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

40 MORE THAN AN ACTLive theater is a community affair.

42 HISTORY-MAKING HIGH SCHOOLSSchools begin new chapter in learning.

26

5thanniversary

issue

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FACTS & STATS

RELOCATION

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

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

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“Find the good – and praise it.” – Alex Haley (1921-1992), Journal Communications co-founder

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

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MANAGING EDITOR KIM MADLOM

COPY EDITOR JOYCE CARUTHERS

ASSOCIATE EDITORS LISA BATTLES,

SUSAN CHAPPELL, JESSY YANCEY

STAFF WRITERS CAROL COWAN, KEVIN LITWIN

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS SUZANNE B. BOPP,

SHARON H. FITZGERALD, KELLY KOEPKE,

AMY STUMPFL, BETSY WILLIAMS

DATA MANAGER CHANDRA BRADSHAW

REGIONAL SALES MANAGER CHARLES FITZGIBBON

INTEGRATED MEDIA MANAGER BRIAN SUTTON

SALES SUPPORT MANAGER CINDY HALL

SENIOR PHOTOGRAPHER BRIAN McCORD

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS JEFF ADKINS,

TODD BENNETT, ANTONY BOSHIER, J. KYLE KEENER

PHOTOGRAPHY PROJECT MANAGER ANNE WHITLOW

CREATIVE DIRECTOR KEITH HARRIS

ASSOCIATE PRODUCTION DIRECTOR CHRISTINA CARDEN

PRODUCTION PROJECT MANAGERS

MELISSA BRACEWELL, KATIE MIDDENDORF, JILL WYATT

SENIOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS LAURA GALLAGHER,

KRIS SEXTON, CANDICE SWEET, VIKKI WILLIAMS

LEAD DESIGNER ERICA HINES

GRAPHIC DESIGN ALISON HUNTER, JESSICA MANNER,

JANINE MARYLAND, MARCUS SNYDER

WEB IMPLEMENTATION DIRECTOR ANDY HARTLEY

WEB DESIGN DIRECTOR FRANCO SCARAMUZZA

WEB CONTENT MANAGER JOHN HOOD

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WEB PRODUCTION JENNIFER GRAVES

COLOR IMAGING TECHNICIAN TWILA ALLEN

AD TRAFFIC MARCIA MILLAR,

PATRICIA MOISAN, RAVEN PETTY

CHAIRMAN GREG THURMAN

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER BOB SCHWARTZMAN

EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT RAY LANGEN

SR. V.P./CLIENT DEVELOPMENT JEFF HEEFNER

SR. V.P./SALES CARLA H. THURMAN

SR. V.P./OPERATIONS CASEY E. HESTER

V.P./SALES HERB HARPER

V.P./SALES TODD POTTER

V.P./VISUAL CONTENT MARK FORESTER

V.P./EDITORIAL DIRECTOR TEREE CARUTHERS

V.P./CUSTOM PUBLISHING KIM NEWSOM

MANAGING EDITOR/BUSINESS BILL McMEEKIN

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR NATASHA LORENS

PHOTOGRAPHY DIRECTOR JEFFREY S. OTTO

CONTROLLER CHRIS DUDLEY

ACCOUNTING MORIAH DOMBY, DIANA GUZMAN,

MARIA McFARLAND, LISA OWENS

RECRUITING/TRAINING DIRECTOR SUZY SIMPSON

DISTRIBUTION DIRECTOR GARY SMITH

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY DIRECTOR YANCEY TURTURICE

IT SERVICE TECHNICIAN RYAN SWEENEY

HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER PEGGY BLAKE

SALES SUPPORT RACHAEL GOLDSBERRY

SALES/MARKETING COORDINATOR RACHEL MATHEIS

EXECUTIVE SECRETARY/SALES SUPPORT KRISTY DUNCAN

OFFICE MANAGER SHELLY GRISSOM

RECEPTIONIST LINDA BISHOP

C U S TO M M A G A Z I N E M E D I A

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History PreservedConsidered the gem of the Texas Hill Country,

the Kendall County Courthouse is listed on the

National Register of Historic Places and is a

Texas Historic Landmark.

The Gothic Romanesque building was a work in

progress for 30 years. The original structure was built

in 1870. The second floor was added in 1886, and the

façade was added in 1910.

In 1998, Kendall County opened its new courthouse,

built of limestone, steel and concrete. The new facility

is just across the street from the original structure.

A Fair To RememberRide ’em Cowboy!

Rodeo is an exciting part of the Kendall County Fair,

held each Labor Day weekend at the fairgrounds. The

fair also includes a livestock show, arts and crafts booths,

apple pie baking contest, a carnival and live music.

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

Established in 1905, the fair began as an opportunity

for citizens to share agricultural information, recipes

and news. For more than 100 years, the fair has been

held on property donated by the Von Herff family.

Care To Dance?Ever hear the Borsicka-Polka? Boerne

residents have.The Boerne Village Band is the oldest

continuously organized German band outside of Germany. When Germans migrated to Boerne during the mid-1800s‚ they brought their love of music with them. They also brought their musical skills and wasted little time re-creating the sounds of their home country. And so began the Boerne Village Band, established in 1860.

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

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

Taste TemptationsEvery town needs a good central gathering spot.

For Boerne’s residents and visitors‚ The Daily Grind/

Boerne Grill on South Main Street is that spot.

Gourmet coffee‚ homemade ice cream‚ quality wine

selection and tasty food keep customers coming back

for more.

The Daily Grind‚ in existence since 1995‚ expanded

in July 2005 to include the Boerne Grill. Favorite items

include the breakfast omelets‚ the turkey bacon melts

and Reubens‚ and the unique salads.


Fast Facts Signs of Boerne’s

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

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

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

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

One of Kendall County’s most popular attractions remains nameless. Cave Without a Name is a cavern that opened to the public in 1939.

KENDALL

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POPULATIONBoerne: 11,145

Kendall County: 32,886

LOCATIONBoerne is in south-central Texas,

25 miles northwest of San Antonio

on Interstate 10. Boerne is the

county seat of Kendall County.

BEGINNINGSIn 1852, German colonists laid out

the town’s site and named it Boerne

in honor of Ludwig Börne, a German

poet and publicist.

FOR MORE INFORMATIONGreater Boerne Chamber of Commerce

126 Rosewood Ave.

P.O. Box 2328

Boerne, TX 78006

Phone: (830) 249-8000

Fax: (830) 249-9639

www.boerne.org

Boerne At A Glance

What’s Online eTake a virtual tour of Boerne, courtesy of our award-winning photographers, at imagesboerne.com.

Boerne

A Trip to the MarketItems such as antiques, arts and crafts, clothing,

pottery, jewelry, Texas souvenirs and gourmet food

products are for sale at Boerne Market Days.

Numerous vendors from all over Texas sell their

wares on the second weekend of every month at

the Gazebo in Main Plaza.

Unusual items are in abundance, and several

concession food stands are also set up.

The Dickens, You Say?

If you’re a fan of the Victorian Era‚

downtown Boerne has a treat for you

each November.

Held annually on the Friday and Saturday

after Thanksgiving‚ the Dickens on Main

celebration sees the town don Victorian garb

to celebrate the holiday season and to explore

Boerne by lamplight. Residents and visitors

alike can enjoy horse-drawn carriages‚ music

and drama events‚ and of course participate

in the ever-popular Wassail Competition‚

where spicy spirits are downed in good

fellowship and cheer. The Dickens‚ indeed! PH

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Almanac

Right: Artist Pamela Gardner shows her work at the Carriage House Gallery of Fine Arts.

THE ARTS ARE PART OF BOERNE’S PERSONALITY Here

ThriveArtists

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

No matter the time of year, Boerne unlocks a new way for residents and visitors to explore,

enjoy and celebrate the arts in all its forms.Pamela Gardner, president of Boerne Professional Artists,

or BPA, says that the community is growing in every aspect, including the arts.

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

STORY BY KELLY KOEPKEPHOTOGRAPHY BY J. KYLE KEENER


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


What’s Online

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


LOCAL NATURE CENTERS PRESERVE RICH, NATIVE HERITAGE

NaturalTreasures

Guadalupe River State Park


Boerne is rich in natural beauty.

T ake a look around Boerne, and it’s easy to see why so many outdoor enthusiasts f lock to the area. Whether you’re interested in hiking, caving, fishing, or simply enjoy exploring the native f lora

and fauna, this scenic community is widely known for its unique recreational resources.

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

The Cibolo Nature Center offers a prime example. Established in 1990, the Cibolo Nature Center boasts four distinct ecosystems within its 100 acres – including a riparian forest, a live oak savannah, a tall-grass prairie and a spring-fed marsh. Nearly 100,000 people visit the center each year, enjoying a wide range of educational activities and programs.

“We have a wonderful outdoor classroom, as well as a summer camp for children,” says Doris Perez, director of operations and human resources for Cibolo Nature Center. “And once a month, we offer Kid’s Club, which is a great opportunity for families to get out and explore the trails and creek – and just enjoy being outdoors.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

“We also have a new interpretive center which features hands-on exhibits geared toward children,” he adds. “These interpretive programs play an important part, not only in preserving wild Texas, but also in educating future generations.”

STORY BY AMY STUMPFL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY J. KYLE KEENER


W hen Denise Mazal and daughter Veronica opened Little Gretel on River

Road last February, she dug out recipes her Czech mother developed more than 60 years ago.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BOERNE RESTAURANTS USE AUTHENTIC RECIPES THAT DELIGHT THE PALATE

STORY BY BETSY WILLIAMS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY J. KYLE KEENER

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

CuisineOld-World


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


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

“You have to finish up your schnitzel with a nice apple strudel,” Denise says. “We sell hundreds of them.” Oh, and don’t forget the beer, which is offered on tap and in bottles.

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

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

Kenny grew weary of the New York rat race.

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

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

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

Kenny’s pasta dishes are a tribute to his New York days. “Our marinara is the best, it’s authentic,” he says. “There are no preservatives. And you don’t serve the sauce the day you make it. You make the sauce on Monday to serve it on Tuesday. It thickens and the flavors blend.”

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

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

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


It’s not Berlin or Hamburg or Munich, but there certainly are

some similarities.The city of Boerne is named for

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

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

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

Boerne is host to the Turn Verein (bowling) and the Schuetzen Verein (shooting) organizations, which are two of the city’s most historic recreational clubs. In fact, Schuetzen Verein was started by the early German settlers in 1864 as a way to relax after a hard week, and it now has the distinction of being the oldest shooting club in the United States. Members stand on stair-stepped wooden ramps and shoot at targets 100 yards away, and the organization is still going strong today.

Ludwig Would ApproveBOERNE CONTINUES TO CELEBRATE ITS GERMAN HERITAGE

Contestants seek to be crowned Miss Berges Fest.


Portfolio

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

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

Mike Lang

103 N. Saunders St. Boerne, TX 78006

(830) 816.2131 tel (830) 249.3341 fax

Visit us online at: www.kcac.net Ashlee Pfeiffer – ManagerIt is said that the second floor of the

historic Boerne City Library, located at 210 N. Main Street, is haunted.

A Favorite Haunt

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

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

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

However, some folks maintain that the voices and sounds are from a woman – probably Dienger’s wife. They suggest she laments his drinking.

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

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

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

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

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66 Degrees, No Matter the Weather

What is the difference between a stalactite and a stalagmite?

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

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

name. He received a $250 cash prize for his clever effort, and the cave has kept its unusual title ever since.

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

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

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steps that descend to 90 feet below the surface.

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

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

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

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


Portfolio

Boerne City Lake

A LakeRetreat

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

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

The 50-acre park has undergone a number of additions in its short history. It now features improved roadways as well as ample parking options and a new boat dock. There is also a security booth at the front entrance to control access into the park.

A cluster of trails has also been installed for those who like to hike‚ bike‚ walk and jog. In addition, a volleyball court and new playground are now in place, while a butterfly garden and bird observation blind are also on site for nature enthusiasts.

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

An annual event at the park is Adventure Fest, which exposes people to outdoor sports and activities. The June weekend celebration includes recreation opportunities such as horseback riding‚ canoeing and kayaking‚ paddleboat rides‚ archery‚ power parachuting and an adult-and-child fishing tournament.

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

Facilities and Services Guest Room Amenities

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

OFFERING BOERNE’S NEWEST TRAVEL EXPERIENCE

“Boerne Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott – because you want a clean, comfortable and confident travel experience in a place where great customer service is the heart that drives us to exceed your expectations.”

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


The Lutheran ChurchMissouri Synod

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

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

Sunday School/ Adult Bible Study:

9:15 a.m.

9401 Dietz Elkhorn Boerne, TX 78015

(830) 755-4300 www.messiahboerne.org

Messiah Lutheran Church


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

Mercedes-Benz of BoerneBest of the Best 2006, 2007 and 2008 – three years in a row! Come see why we are the new choice.

Shooting Without Bullets

Jesse James won’t be there, but someone who looks like him could

possibly be in attendance.Enchanted Springs Ranch is a

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

Owners Steve and Vicki Schmidt are not only Texas ranchers but also fans of the Old West, which is why they transformed part of their property into something right out of the 1880s. More than 40 buildings are part of the elaborate Old West attraction at Enchanted Springs Ranch, which has already been used in several TV films, commercials and music videos.

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

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

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

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

– Stories by Kevin Litwin

A zebra roams the fields at the Enchanted Springs Ranch.

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Portfolio

Education

NEW OPPORTUNITIES CLOSE TO HOME

STORY BY SUZANNE B. BOPP

Hill Countryin the

Higher

W hen you look around the country at great cities, you always find a higher education

institution involved, says Steve Mack, board chairman of the Kendall County Economic Development Corporation.

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

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

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

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

Texas Tech is participating in Project Red Apple to improve higher education

opportunities in Boerne. PHOTO BY BRIAN MCCORD


Business

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Business

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

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

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

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

“The medical community in San Antonio is expanding rapidly. They need nurses,” Mack says.

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

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

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

want them to be able to stay near home and get their education,” Heckler says. Both schools will offer tuition assistance if students go on to earn degrees at the Texas Tech or Alamo Colleges systems.

Workforce training is yet another component of Project Red Apple. “We have a lot of service industry here and semiprofessional jobs but no way of training the workforce,” Heckler says. “We’re working with local businesses to identify the core subjects people need to be considered for employment. We want them to hire our workers.”

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

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Biz BriefsBUSINESSES – BOTH LARGE AND SMALL – THAT HELP DEFINE BOERNE’S

ECONOMIC CLIMATE

ScorecardBUSINESS AT

A GLANCE

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

$17,532Retail sales

per capita

$35,079Accommodations

and food service

sales ($1,000)

3,947Total number

of firms

Source: U.S. Census QuickFacts

THE TRUST CO.Biz: banking, financial servicesBuzz: With offices in San Antonio, Corpus Christi and Boerne, The Trust Co. has seen substantial and steady growth since its founding in 1997. The firm provides a full array of personal and commercial banking services, investment and trust services, as well as planning and consulting services to families, businesses and institutions across south Texas.www.thetrustcompany.com

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


Business

ADONAI AVIATION INC.Biz: helicopter f light servicesBuzz: Aspiring helicopter pilots can fulfill their goals at Adonai Aviation. Gerry Matheny was a U.S. Army helicopter pilot with experience that includes flying both the Huey and Cobra on missions in Korea, as well as training missions in the Army, National Guard and Army Reserves. Adonai also provides aerial photography services.www.adonaiaviation.com

SALON INFUSIONBiz: hair and nail spaBuzz: A full complement of salon services awaits clients at Salon Infusion. Hair, nail, massage and bridal preparation are just a few of the services offered at the salon and day spa. Products and packages used at Salon Infusion are earth-friendly. The mission is to help customers relax and unwind in a soothing atmosphere.www.saloninfusion.com

MORNINGSIDE MINISTRIESBiz: assisted living, retirement, rehabilitationBuzz: Founded in 1961, Morningside Ministries’ three distinct communities are home to more than 800 residents. This faith-based, not-for-profit program provides a full range of housing and health services, including independent retirement living, assisted living, rehabilitation and nursing care.www.morningsidemin.org


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

At a reception in December 2008, the Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce gave

the community a special Christmas gift – a 2009 Legislative Plan designed to ensure that Boerne recognizes its challenges and meets them cooperatively.

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

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

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

For example, the Legislative Plan sets forth a preliminary strategy to help encourage salary-appropriate housing options for teachers, police officers and others in similar income brackets. White notes that Albany Engineered Composites is set to complete an expansion in the near future that will add 300 jobs. “We want those employees to live and work in our community,” she says.

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

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

The Legislative Plan encourages more business involvement in education at all levels and recommends more higher education options in the Hill Country. “Those things are happening,” White says. Beginning with the fall 2010 semester, Texas Tech University will offer Kendall County high school students dual enrollment for some honors classes, meaning they may earn up 30 hours of college credit before they begin their college career, White says.

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

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

– Sharon H. Fitzgerald

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

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Business | Chamber Report

BOERNE

BUSINESS CLIMATEA straight shot on Interstate 10 from downtown San Antonio,

Boerne offers residents both convenient access to the city and a

quality of life that reflects its small-town heritage.

TAXES

1.50%City Sales and Use Tax

.50%County Sales Tax

6.25%State Sales Tax

8.25%Total Sales Tax

TRANSPORTATION

Transportation Link

http://visitboerne.org

San Antonio

International Airport

9800 Airport Blvd.

San Antonio, TX 78216

(210) 207-3450

www.sanantonio.gov/aviation

Boerne Stage Airfield

400 Boerne Stage Field

Boerne, TX 78006

(830) 981-2345, ext. 10

MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME

Boerne, $42,329

Kendall County, $49,521

Texas, $39,927

U.S., $41,994

ECONOMIC RESOURCES

Greater Boerne

Chamber of Commerce

126 Rosewood Ave.

Boerne, TX 78006

(830) 249-8000

www.boerne.org

Boerne Convention

& Visitors Bureau

1407 S. Main St.

Boerne, TX 78006

(830) 249-7277

(888) 842-8080

www.visitboerne.org

Kendall County Economic

Development Corp.

1221 S. Main

Suite 100

Boerne, TX 78006

(830) 331-9070

www.kendallcountyedc.com

GOVERNMENT OFFICES

City of Boerne

402 E. Blanco

Boerne, TX 78006

(830) 249-9511

www.ci.boerne.tx.us

Kendall County Government

201 E. San Antonio St.

Boerne, TX 78006

(830) 249-9343

www.co.kendall.tx.us

INDUSTRIAL SITES

Industrial Sites Link

www.kendallcountyedc.com/

available-properties

MORE ONLINE

imagesboerne.com

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

E OEEEEE OMAJOR EMPLOYERS

Boerne Independent School District 968

Boerne Walmart Supercenter 330

Mission Pharmacal 310

H.E.B. Grocery Store 240

Kendall County 202

Albany Engineered Composites 197

City of Boerne 193

The Home Depot 120

Town & Country Manor Nursing Home 100

Mercedes Benz of Boerne 87


Business | Economic Profile

Old public library on N. Main Street

34 IMAGESBOERNE .COM

Image Gallery

Gazebo in Main Plaza Park

What’s Online eVisit imagesboerne.com to see more award-winning photography highlighting the places and people in Boerne.

IMAGESBOERNE .COM 35

PHOTOGRAPHY BY J. KYLE KEENER

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

Scott Kronenthal, MSN, RN, CS-FNP

Out-patient ChemotherapyLaboratory

Anticoagulation/Thrombosis Clinic Genetic Testing

124 E. Bandera Rd., Ste. 301 Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 249-1469 [email protected] www.cccst.com

CANCER CARE CENTERS of South Texas

BOERNE Office

Medical Oncology/Hematology

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

134 Menger Springs Rd.

Suite #1200

Boerne, Texas 78006

830-816-2480

Wendell A. Edgin, DDS B.D. Tiner, DDS, MD Steven B. Buckley, DDS, MD www.alamoOMS.com


Health & Wellness

The Premier Laser Center in the Texas Hill Country

After four years of treating satisfied laser patients – we continue to provide the BEST!

Cutera Titan | Laser Genesis

Intense Pulsed Laser Hair Removal & Vein Removal

Obagi | Microdermabrasion | Facials | and More!

The Latest and Leading in Laser Technology – Pearl Fractional Treatment

(the only one in the San Antonio Area)

Zerona Laser Body Contouring – Painless, Non-invasive

McRae M.D. Medical Laser Spa

BOTOXRADIESSEJUVEDERM

www.mcraemd.net

Mention this ad and receive 10% off one purchase.

JEFF S. BULLOCK, M.D. Board Certified Gastroenterologist

Specializing in Acid Reflux and Colon Diseases, with a special interest

in Colon Cancer Screening

Direct Line for Appointments: (210) 581-9280

Information: (210) 271-0606

Fax: (210) 593-0660

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

1201 S. Main Ste. 122 Boerne, TX 78006

www.sagastro.com

✭

visit ouradvertisersAlamo Maxillofacial Surgical Associates PA www.alamooms.com

Boerne Banking Center www.boernebankingcenter.com

Boerne Physical Therapy www.boernepti.com

Boerne Women’s Care www.boernewomenscare.com

Cancer Care Centers of South Texas www.cccst.com

Christus Santa Rosa www.christussantarosa.org

Fairfield Inn & Suites www.boernefairfieldinn.com

Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce www.boerne.org

GVTC www.gvtc.com

Hampton Inn & Suites www.hampton.com

JPC Financial Resources www.jpcfinancial.com

Ken Batchelor Cadillac/ Saab/Hummer www.kenbatchelor.com

Kendall County Abstract Company www.kcac.net

Little Smiles Dentistry www.littlesmilesdentistry.com

McRae MD Medical Laser Spa www.mcraemd.net

Mercedes Benz of Boerne www.mbboerne.com

Messiah Lutheran Church www.messiahboerne.org

Methodist Boerne Medical Center www.boernehealth.com

Mission Pharmacal Company www.missionpharmacal.com

Morningside Ministries www.morningsidemin.org

Sage Capital Mortgage www.sagecapitalmortgage.com

San Antonio Gastroenterology Associates www.sagastro.com

Texas Heritage Bank www.txheritagebank.com

www.littlesmilesdentistry.com

little smiles Dentistry for Children, P.A.

415 South School St. Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 249-9888

Fax (830) 249-7919


The new Methodist Boerne Emergency Center is projected to treat as many as 16,000 patients

during 2009. That’s proof that Boerne’s first 24-hour emergency facility, which opened its doors in March 2008, was sorely needed in the community.

“We started off busy, and we’ve maintained busy. For the size of Boerne and the region, that’s a healthy quantity of patients needing our services,” says Jim Willis, vice president of cardiac and adult emergency services for the Methodist Boerne Medical Center, affiliated with San Antonio-based Methodist Healthcare. The Boerne Medical Center comprises the free-standing Emergency Center and a 69,000-square-foot medical office building, which opened in April 2007. Tenants include physicians specializing in family practice and infectious disease, internal medicine, pediatrics and sports medicine, oncology and hematology, cardiology, and maxillofacial surgery. Other tenants include a compre-hensive radiology practice and a home-health agency.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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


Health & Wellness

It takes a lot of work and coordination for the nonprofit Boerne Community Theatre, established in 1991, to mount

nine shows a year and coordinate its three summer children’s drama camps.

Every show proves the effort is worthwhile.

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

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

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

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

As Loftis plans each season, she looks to the state of the world for inspiration. “In this coming season, which begins in September, we’re looking to keep our five regular productions, two Teen Troupe shows and Spring Special lighthearted and upbeat. Our annual holiday show

More Than an ActLIVE THEATER A COMMUNITY AFFAIR IN BOERNE

Scene from A Christmas Carol

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

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

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

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

Teen Troup shows emphasize plays with appeal for both children and adults. Any teen from Boerne and surrounding areas can join. Speaking parts and other on-stage roles are drawn from the company by audition. About 75 kids participate in each production.

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

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

– Kelly Koepke


Arts & Culture

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

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

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

Members enjoy two 18-hole championship golf courses, both designed by golfing legend Gary Player. The original course, Live Oak, was built in 1974 and renovated in 2006 by professional golfer D.A. Weibring’s course design company. “It’s a traditional layout as far as the routing of the course, the bunkering and the trees,” Wiese says. “They did a great job of updating it.”

No. 8 on Live Oak “tends to get people,” Wiese says. Players must carry one ravine off the tee, and a second ravine

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

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

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

Golf isn’t the only game in town at Fair Oaks, which has one of the most extensive tennis programs in the San Antonio area. With 15 lighted courts, the club boasts about 650 tennis members.

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


Recreation Texas-StyleFAIR OAKS RANCH IS A GOLFING AND TENNIS PARADISE

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

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Sports & Recreation

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

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

graduates through new relationships with post-secondary institutions.”

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

changes, Kelly says.“People say that the move from

one high school to two in a Texas town is one of the hardest things to go through,” he says. “But our community has handled the issue with its customary graciousness and professionalism. Having two high schools will enhance student achievement partly because it will ensure a more personalized

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

The opening of the new Champion High School gives Boerne two high schools for the first time. PHOTO BY J. KYLE KEENER


Education

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

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www.sagecapitalmortgage.com

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environment for all students.”Champion High School, which

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

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

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

With two high schools, two middle schools, five elementary schools and the Boerne Academy, the system continues to make strides in the academic arena. “We continue to prove that we are a school system that produces graduates with an outstanding competitive advantage in the academic and vocational worlds after high school,” Kelly says.

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

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

– Betsy Williams


SNAPSHOTBoerne, located only 22 miles northwest of San Antonio in the

foothills of the Texas hill country, is a blend of small-town charm,

historic architecture, nature conservation and community growth.

Visitors and residents alike are inspired by its natural surroundings.

BOERNE

CLIMATE OVERVIEW

Boerne’s climate is a happy

compromise between the Gulf

Coast’s humidity and the arid,

dry conditions in West Texas,

with fairly moderate tem-

peratures year-round, and

the rainfall is fairly evenly

distributed as well.

34 FJanuary Low Temperature

60 FJanuary High Temperature

69 FJuly Low Temperature

92 FJuly High Temperature

EDUCATIONAL OVERVIEW

The Boerne Independent

School District exists to

prepare its students for

responsible citizenship,

sound character, lifelong

learning, and productive

employment through programs

and activities that challenge

and develop language literacy,

mathematical proficiency,

scientific competence and

social maturity. The region

also offers private school

options and several colleges

and universities are within a

short commute from Boerne.

MEDICAL SERVICES OVERVIEW

Boerne is within 25 miles

of several major medical

facilities in the San Antonio

metropolitan area.

REAL ESTATE

$205,102Average Home Price

ARTS AND CULTURE

www.visitboerne.org

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Cibolo Nature Center

140 City Park Road

Boerne, TX 78006

www.cibolo.org

Habitat for Humanity

of San Antonio

311 Probandt


(210) 223-5203

www.habitatsa.org

United Way of

San Antonio

and Bexar County

P.O. Box 898


(210) 352-7000

www.unitedwaysatx.org

RECREATION ACTIVITIES

Boerne Hill Country

Family YMCA

1361 S. Main St.

Boerne, TX 78006

(830) 815-1040

www.ymcasatx.org/boerne

City of Boerne Parks

& Recreation

1017 Adler Road

Boerne, TX 78006

(830) 249-9511

Recreation Activities Link

www.visitboerne.org

MORE ONLINE

imagesboerne.com

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

E OOOOOOOOOOO


Community Profile

Ad Index 37 ALAMO MAXILLOFACIAL SURGICAL ASSOCIATES PA

5 BOERNE BANKING CENTER

24 BOERNE PHYSICAL THERAPY

22 BOERNE WOMEN’S CARE

37 CANCER CARE CENTERS OF SOUTH TEXAS

36 CHRISTUS SANTA ROSA

24 FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES

24 GVTC

4 HAMPTON INN & SUITES

2 JPC FINANCIAL RESOURCES

C4 KEN BATCHELOR CADILLAC/ SAAB/HUMMER

21 KENDALL COUNTY ABSTRACT COMPANY

38 LITTLE SMILES DENTISTRY

38 MCRAE MD MEDICAL

LASER SPA

25 MERCEDES BENZ OF BOERNE

23 MESSIAH LUTHERAN CHURCH

C2 METHODIST BOERNE

MEDICAL CENTER

37 MISSION

PHARMACAL COMPANY

C3 MORNINGSIDE MINISTRIES

43 SAGE CAPITAL MORTGAGE

38 SAN ANTONIO

GASTROENTEROLOGY

ASSOCIATES

31 TEXAS HERITAGE BANK

Images Boerne, TX: 2010

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