A Young Entrepreneur’s Big Dream from Boerne, Texas
FIRST FAMILIES OF KENDALL COUNTY: THE BOHNERT FAMILY
REAL ESTATE MARKET: A CHALLENGE, NOT A CRISIS LOCAL NEWS & INFO
Karl J. Eggerss Principal, Financial Advisor
Casey Keller, CFA Senior Vice President, Financial Advisor
Shawn Morris, CFP®, AAMS® Vice President, Financial Advisor
Britni Mosher Senior Associate
AAs the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to fall, there’s something about the fall season that invites us to slow down, savor, and celebrate the local charm that makes our community special. This issue is all about that spirit — highlighting the people, places, and stories that make this season so memorable.
Inside, you’ll meet an inspiring local young entrepreneur, Mason DeLaune, who took a sketch and a dream and transformed them into an outdoor lifestyle brand.
Also in this issue, explore some of the best local events to fill your weekends with fall fun and take a peek into the past with everyone’s favorite feature, The First Families of Kendall County. This month we feature the Bohnert family. And for those with a sweet tooth, don’t miss our feature on a fun cottage bakery that’s sure to become your next favorite indulgence, Sweet Memories by Karla, located inside of the
Waring Market. Fun Fact: Karla is an ancestor of this month’s featured First Family!
With topics from real estate to wellness to financial planning, this issue has lots to keep you informed and educated.
So grab a cozy drink, settle in, and enjoy this fall edition — a celebration of local flavor, community spirit, and the beauty of the season.
Warmly,
Lauren Stumberg Owner/Publisher
30 YEARS OF CUSTOM HOME BUILDING EXPERTISE
KE’VIN & BRENDA KATZER (210) 559-2187
1015 SISTERDALE ROAD BOERNE, TEXAS WWW.CADILLACCUSTOMHOMES.COM
Like they say, action speaks louder than words and with Cadillac Custom Homes, action and experience take the lead. With Kevin and Brenda, we only had to communicate with them. No intermediaries, no job sight quality control manager, no receptionist at the office, just Kevin and Brenda. They were ahead of us on everything from working with us on our initial design to the final punch out. Kevin was on our site daily, communicating with us numerous times each day with updates; we never ended the day wondering about anything. Brenda paved the way with all the suppliers and made the process seamless for us.
- The Cook Family
Sponsored by the Genealogical Society of Kendall County (GSKC), The First Families of Kendall County project began in 1999. The purpose of this project is to recognize the living descendants of persons instrumental in founding and settling of the area encompassed by present day Kendall County, Texas and to preserve the history of their families and the county.
To date, 630 applications have been approved for 352 different individuals. One hundred seventy-two (172) Founders and Early Settlers have been documented and recognized. They represent one hundred forty (140) different families in Kendall County. There are two hundred seventy-nine (279) volumes of First Family notebooks on the shelves at the Family History Place.
Here we will share with you some of the stories of those First Families who settled this beautiful area of the Texas hill country. We hope you enjoy!
by James Hurst
The Joseph Lamm Fachwerk Haus was 120 years old when it was featured in The Comfort News in 1979. It could just as easily be called the Anton Bohnert Fachwerk Haus since the two men were co-owners and most likely built it together. They did a good job! The limestone and cypress timbered structure looks as good today as it did when it was photographed in 1979. The current owners continue to use the 166-year-old structure.
TAnton Bohnert and his cousin, Joseph Lamm, left their home in Oberkirch, Baden, Wüettemberg in 1854, and traveled more than 450 miles (probably by train) to the port city of Le Harve, France. Once there, they boarded the ship Heidelberg and sailed to New Orleans, arriving on December 5. Nine days later, Joseph turned twenty-nine. Anton turned twenty-six the following month. They likely took a smaller ship from New Orleans to Indianola, traveled overland to New Braunfels, and from there, journeyed to Comfort.
Most of the land in Comfort was owned by a New Orleans mer-
chant, John F. C. Vles, and he appointed Ernst Altgelt to act as his agent over the development and sale of the property. After Joseph and Anton arrived in Comfort, they came to an agreement with Altgelt that allowed them to occupy Out Lot 4. They appear on the 1856 tax rolls of Kerr County, so the agreement must have stipulated that they pay taxes on the property. Bohnert and Lamm paid tax on the forty acres of land located on the Guadalupe River, and on four head of cattle. The county also collected $1.50 for poll tax. Since every other taxpayer on the page paid $0.75, one may conclude that both men paid to vote. Their neighbors are also on the tax rolls before they actually obtain ownership of their respective Out Lots. They included Clark Ridely, Out Lot 1; Johann Heinen, Out Lot 3; Gottlieb Bauer, Out Lot 10, and Henry Sauer, Out Lots 12, 13 & 14.
Anton and Joseph bought Out Lot 4 on September 3, 1858. Three weeks earlier, on August 18, Joseph married his next-door-neighbor’s eldest daughter, Louisa Heinen. The cousins most likely “camped out” on their acreage during the first two years, but after Joseph married and he and Anton became landowners, they built their stone and timber cottage known as the Lamm Fachwerk Haus. That same year, 1859, area citizens circulated two petitions regarding creation of a new county from portions of Bexar, Blanco and Kerr Counties: one in favor and one opposed. Comfort was vying with Kerrville to be declared the County Seat of Kerr County and if the petition to form a new county was granted, it would include Comfort. Anton signed a petition opposing the creation of a new county as did most of his neighbors. No one living in the Comfort area signed the petition on favor of the new county.
By the time the 1860 Census was taken in June, Joseph and Louisa had their first child, John. Anton may have still been “camping out”, but the census lists him as a member of the household. Anton’s bride-to-be was on the same census. Fredericka Grollimund lived with her husband, Joseph, and their two children, Joseph (born 1858) and Emma (born 1860), a few miles northeast of Anton. They were farming next door to Fredericka’s father, Gottfried Schellhase, who continued on page 10
emigrated from Gleine, Prussia with his wife and five children. The family arrived in Comfort in 1854.
Joseph Grollimund also arrived in Comfort in 1854, having emigrated from France. He married Fredericka in February 1857, and they had four children before he was killed by Indians in July 1867. Mina was born in 1861 and Emil in 1862. Die Freie Presse für Texas wrote the following: “We learned Mr. Grollimund was a powerful man who generally carried no weapons, depending more on his physical strength to overcome obstacles and we have if from an acquaintance of his who met him hunting his horses the morning before he was killed, and noticing the absence of a weapon on him, warned him not to leave home without a gun. He laconically answered: ‘They will do nothing to me!’ But he was in error, as his body was found the next day riddled with bullets and scalped.” Twenty-eight-year-old Fredericka Grollimund was widowed and left with four children ranging from eight to three years old. Anton married Fredericka on January 25, 1868. By then, Joseph and Louisa had five children, so it is reasonable to assume that initially, Anton moved in with Fredericka. However, by the time the census was taken on August 25,1870, Anton was back on Out Lot 4, living next door to Joseph. Anton and Fredericka had the first of six children, Moritz (1869), who is listed along with the four Grollimund children.
Joseph sold his half of Out Lot 4 to Anton in February 1874 and moved to San Antonio. Anton and Fredericka had five more children while they were living there: Antonie (1870), Gottfried (1872), Wilhelm (1874), Anna (1877), and Ernst (1883). Fredericka’s third child, Mina Grollimund, married Theadore Mertz in October 1879, and when the census was taken in 1880, Mina and Theadore were farming about three farms down from Anton. The rest of Fredericka’s children were still at home. The census recorded that Anton and eleven-year-old Moritz were farmers, but the occupation field is blank for the other children, including twenty-one-yearold Joseph Grollimund and his eighteen-year-old brother, Emil.
Caleb K Clark, CIMA® Financial Advisor
As the 1880s progressed, Anton and Fredericka’s children married and moved to farms of their own. While 1882 marked the departure of Joseph (Joe) Grollimund as he married Alwina Schilling and began farming nearby, 1883 saw the arrival of Anton and Fredericka’s last child, Ernst, who was born in May. Emma Grollimund was the next to marry. In 1887, she tied the knot with Wilhelm Eitze in San Antonio. Wilhelm was a cement burner and likely worked for Alamo Cement which was founded in 1880. Emil Grollimund married Augusta Schladoer in 1888, and the couple farmed 130 acres in Kerr County. Anton ended the 1880s by purchasing 290 acres located on the county line between Kerr and Kendall Counties in December of 1889. It was on the south bank of the Guadalupe River, across from
the 40-acre farm.
The 1890 census was destroyed, but from property tax records we know that Anton and Fredericka lived on their original 40-acre farm, and the six children he and Fredericka had lived there as well. 1895 was the year both Moritz and Gottfried left home. Moritz married Marie Pfeiffer in April, and Gottfried married Louise Spenrath in November. Both couples lived and farmed just across the county line in Kerr County. Antonie married Frank Bluemel in 1897. The Bluemel family also farmed near Comfort in Kerr County.
The 1900 census revealed that everyone except Emma was farming near Comfort, in either Kendall or Kerr County. Emma and her husband were in San Antonio and spent the remainder of their lives there. Anna, Wilhelm and Ernst were living at home with Anton and Fredericka, and when Anna married Heinrich Seidensticker in 1902, she moved a few miles east to the Seidensticker farm just outside of Comfort.
Anton died January 11, 1903, the day before his seventy-fourth birthday, and was buried in the Comfort Cemetery. His two youngest sons, Wilhelm and Ernst, were living at home, and everyone else in the family lived nearby. He had five step grandchildren and nine grandchildren when he died. His youngest son, Ernst, was twenty-one, so he got to see all his children live to adulthood. Six months later, Wilhelm married Martha Pfeiffer, who was the youngest sister of Marie Pfeiffer. Martha and Marie both had nine children, so there were eighteen double cousins in the Bohnert-Pfeiffer family. Anton and his family posed for a photograph between 1900 and 1903. Ernst, who is to the far right in the picture, appears to be about twenty years old.
After Wilhelm married, Fredericka was living with her youngest child, Ernst, on the original 40-acre farm. Ernst married Emma Hoffman in 1908, and she moved in with Ernest and his mother, where he continued to farm the original 40 acres. According to Ernst’s grandson, Melvin Bohnert, the 40-acre farm remained in the family until the mid-1980s.
Fredericka joined Anton in the Comfort Cemetery in February of 1914. She was
seventy-five and lived to see her ten children marry and have families of their own. She celebrated the birth of thirty-two of her forty-one grandchildren, all of whom lived close enough to visit. The Bohnerts were not famous; they were hard working farm folk who raised their family and contributed to their community, and their descendants many of whom still live in and around Comfort, continued those traditions. BBM
To learn more about The First Families of Kendall County project visit www.gskctx.org or stop by the Family History Place at 114 E. Blanco in Boerne.
Follow on Facebook at Facebook.com/GenealogicalSocietyOfKendallCounty
SStep back in time with a drive out to Waring, Texas. Here you will find the most charming cottage bakery tucked inside of the Waring Market. Only open on Fridays and Saturdays, the women behind this nostalgic venture hope for their businesses to be a destination.
“Waring is so quiet now, but back in the day it had anywhere from 300-500 residents,” said Karla Gonzales, owner of Sweet Memories by Karla. “It has always been a dream of mine to open a cottage bakery, one where neighbors sit with neighbors and get to know each other over a cup of coffee and a tasty treat. This is something that has been lost in today’s world and it warms my heart when I see that happening here.”
Abbie Cotrell, owner of the Waring Market, which offers art, books and vintage treasures is also the owner of the building where they two businesses are located. “The building that houses the Waring Market and Sweet Memories by Karla is exactly the feel I wanted,” added Karla. “It was built in 1900 and everything about it just adds to the story we want to tell.”
Cotrell had previously owned a gallery, Guadalupe Crossing Market, and decided to get back into it and the two friends set out to bring life back to the old building. According to Karla, “Abbie even had the most perfect antique furniture to use that was all in the building next door. All the pieces of furniture have a story and that makes this even more special.”
The quaint space is filled with all sorts of interesting items and the artists are local from the San Antonio area and even a few locals. “I just love how things evolve,” said Abbie. “Locals have come in for baked goods and we get to know them and learn they have talents to share too!”
The baked goods are what Karla calls “Oma’s Recipes”, recipes passed down through
five generations of family, friends and neighbors. “They must have shared their recipes amongst each other back in that time because we find a lot of similarities from one family to the other. When you bite into these my hope is that you feel like you are back to that old time. That it takes you back to sitting with your grandparents or older relatives and you get that sense of nostalgia,” said Karla.
The baked goods are small batch, home baked breakfast cakes, muffins and snack cakes that Karla spends all day Wednesday and Thursday baking. “They bake better in the small batches and I think taste better too,” she said. “Baking these old recipes is like therapy for me and I love
FUN FACT: Karla is the great, great granddaughter of Anton Bohnert who is featured in this issue’s First Families of Kendall County article!
that I get to share them with others.” The baked goods are available for take away or have a seat inside or on the deck and enjoy your kaffee and kuchen while visiting.
Though tucked away, Cotrell and Gonzales’ businesses are hardly a secret. “We have people come from all over, from Kerrville, San Antonio, a lot from the Boerne area. They find us on social media and come to see what we’re all about,” said Karla. “We get a lot of repeat customers,” added Cotrell. “Strangers come in, but they don’t leave a stranger.”
The Waring Market and Sweet Memories by Karla have been able to recreate a sense of community that seems to be forgotten in today’s society. Stop in for the complimentary coffee, hot tea and cocoa (that’s right, FREE coffee, hot tea and cocoa station!!) grab a home baked goodie or two, browse the collection of fantastic art, gifts and vintage treasures and make some new friends along the way!
Open Fridays and Saturdays
8:30am to Noon
542A Waring-Welfare Rd. Waring, TX BBM
Well maintained three bedroom two bath home perfectly situated on a desirable corner lot. Step inside to discover an inviting floor plan featuring an oversized primary suite complete with ample space for a sitting area or home office, plus a private en-suite bath. The kitchen offers both functionality and charm, boasting a convenient serving area ideal for entertaining. Enjoy outdoor living with a covered patio and added storage space. This well-rounded home offers comfort, space and versatility!
$325,000
SATURDAYS
FARMERS MARKET AT THE CIBOLO
9:00am to 1:00pm
33 Herff Road – Boerne
If it’s homemade, handmade, or fresh and tasty, you can get it at the Farmers Market at the Cibolo. Enjoy the fresh air and delicious local produce, live music, yoga, educational programs, children’s story times, inspiration and teaching gardens, and more at the only farmers market in Texas, held on the grounds of a historic 1850s pioneer farm. Admission is free, and friendly pets on leashes are welcome!
TUESDAYS
BOERNE FARMERS MARKET
4:00pm to 7:00pm
402 E. Blanco – Boerne
2nd & 4th Saturdays of Each Month
BLUEGRASS JAM
11:00am to 1:00pm
The AgriCultural Museum and Arts Center 102 City Park Road – Boerne
Bring your instrument and play along, or just come to listen to the Bluegrass Jams while exploring the exhibits and grounds of The AgriCultural on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month. These events are free to the public, but donations are certainly welcome!
The Boerne Farmers Market provides quality, locally grown and produced agricultural products, prepared food, and artisan specialty goods to be bought and sold for the benefit of both the consumer and producer. They offer a vibrant and collaborative community that promotes sustainable and healthy living and nurtures the creativity and ingenuity of the hardworking local farmers and artisans of the Texas Hill Country.
October 25/ November 8
MUSIC IN THE CAVE:
OCTOBER - A TASTE OF THE MARIACHI EXTRAVAGANZA
NOVEMBER - JOSEPH KUIPERS
7:00pm - 9:00pm Cave Without A Name
325 Kreutzberg Road – Boerne
Enjoy a magical evening of music underground in the Queen's Throne Room at the Cave Without A Name. These events sell out quickly, so secure your seats ASAP. $40 online or $45 at the door.
October 25
BOERNE’S TRICK OR TREAT TRAIL
10:00am to 5:00pm
Hill Country Mile
100 N. Main St. – Boerne Trick or treat all day long in and around the Hill Country Mile! Kids and adults are welcome to dress up and fill their candy buckets while leisurely shopping and strolling through our historic downtown.
October 25
GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN BOERNE CEMETERY TOUR
10:00am to 12:00pm Tour times: 10:15am, 10:45am, and 11:15am Boerne Cemetery
Join the Genealogical Society of Kendall County for their Gone but not Forgotten Boerne Cemetery Tour! Free event, where 10 historic figures will be portrayed and their live stories will come alive!
November 1
October 25
GERMAN MOTOR GATHERING
10:00am to 2:00pm Main Plaza – Boerne
The German Motor Gathering event is a two-day experience for participating motors. They have earned a reputation as the premier exhibition of the finest German motoring in the Texas Hill Country. This event is open to all German motoring marques and is free for spectators at the show on Saturday!
October 25
BOERNE BOO!
4:00pm to 7:00pm
Patrick Heath Public Library
451 North Main Street – Boerne Boerne Boo! is a fall festival hosted each year around Halloween. Join us for a ghastly good time at this free family-friendly event with arts and crafts, trick or treating, bounce houses, carnival games, food trucks, music, and, of course, lots of candy and prizes for costume contest winners in each of the following.
Categories are 0-4 yrs, 5-8 yrs, 9-17 yrs, adults (18 & up) and PETS!
October 30
HALLOWEEN NIGHT HIKE
7:00pm to 8:30pm
Guadalupe River State Park
3350 Park Road 31 – Spring Branch
A hauntingly fun night hike through the eerie trails of Guadalupe River State Park! Discover the secrets of the night as you explore the park’s nocturnal wildlife. Costumes are welcome (but optional), and don't forget your flashlight!
FIRST SATURDAY ON MAIN
5:00pm to 9:00pm
Hill Country Mile
100 N. Main St. – Boerne
Shops and boutiques will stay open late and have exclusive discounts, special offers, and plenty of chances to discover something new.
November 6
DIVA NIGHT IN BOERNE
Presented by Ginny Thompson, State Farm Insurance 5:00pm to 9:00pm
Get ready for the best girls night out on the Hill Country Mile! This evening will be bursting with everything you love from your favorite shops and restaurants, including later shopping hours, cocktails, delicious bites, music.
Starting November 7
THE JONES CHRISTMAS RANCH
Open Nightly
43360 Interstate 10 – Boerne
Load up the car and drive through the hills to experience a ranch-sized lighting and musical display that celebrates the reason for the season. The show is even brighter this year, as they have added more and now have 3 million lights!
November 8
TX HILL CO. MUSTANG CLUB ANNUAL FALL CAR SHOW
8:30am to 11:00am
Ford of Boerne | 31480 Interstate 10 – Boerne
This family-friendly event will showcase Mustangs from every era, plus a special category for Best Non-Mustang Ford. Guests can enjoy breakfast tacos, coffee, and community fun while voting in the People’s Choice Awards. Proceeds benefit the Boerne Fire Department.
November 8 & 9
BOERNE MARKET DAYS
Saturday 10:00am to 5:00pm Sunday 10:00am to 4:00pm Main Plaza
Market Days has become synonymous with great shopping in an outdoor setting with artists, craftsmen and vendors sharing their creative talents and wares to the background music of some of Texas’ best home grown musicians.
November 22
BOERNE HANDMADE MARKET
9:00am to 4:00pm nineteen:ten church
130 Sisterdale Rd – Boerne
The Largest Market of its Kind in South Texas. From jewelry, apparel, leather goods, toys, home decor and art to handmade candles, food, drink, and more. Every item is unique and handcrafted with care. VIP Events on 11/21 - see website for tickets. boernehandmademarket.com BBM
by Dr. Scott Sumners, PharmD
WWhile modern medicine has come a long way in managing challenges associated with both acute and chronic illnesses, it can sometimes create additional challenges. Frequently modern medications are geared toward managing symptoms more than healing the root cause of the symptoms. This approach to medicine can manage or mitigate immediate disease problems, such as high blood sugar for diabetics, overproduction of stomach acid for those with excess, or even inflammatory pain associated with tissue damage, but when managing symptoms turns into longer-term medication use, unintended consequences can occur. One of these consequences is nutrient deficiency. Deficiencies can sometimes occur quickly after starting a new medication, but many times certain nutrient deficiencies may occur after or during long-term medication usage. Below is the first in a two-part discussion on nutrient deficiency caused by modern medication use. More time and space would be required to discuss how each nutrient deficiency is caused, so we will just focus on one to discuss in detail this time. A table of other possible deficiencies is included below.
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): esomeprazole, lansoprazole, omeprazole, pantoprazole, rabeprazole. PPIs are commonly used to to decrease the amount of acid in the stomach. While this overproduction of acid is problematic for the patients that use PPIs, if acid production is suppressed too much, it may lead to the following nutrient deficiencies:
1. Vitamin B12. B12 is commonly required to be ‘released’ from protein in our diet in order to be absorbed. If there is insuf-
ficient acid in the stomach to properly support this B12 releasing process, overall B12 absorption can go down.
2. Vitamin C. Vitamin C is commonly found in the stomach in its bioavailable form, ascorbic acid (AA). During some of AA’s antioxidation processes, it is converted to dehydroascorbic acid (DHAA), making it less able to be absorbed in the stomach. A sufficient amount of stomach acid is needed to convert it back to AA so it can be absorbed into the body.
3. Iron. Iron that is ingested from non-meat sources like plants must undergo a chemical process called reduction before it can be absorbed in the gut. This process requires an appropriately acidic environment.
4. Calcium. Absorption of calcium in the small intestine is affected by the amount of acid in the stomach. The exact mechanism for this is not known. Changes in calcium absorption are more controversial in short term use of PPIs but are more well-established with its long term use.
5. Magnesium. Like calcium, the exact mechanism is not known, but it appears that long term use of PPIs can lead to decreased magnesium absorption from both natural and supplemental sources.
6. Zinc. Zinc, like iron, needs to be reduced before it can be absorbed in the gut. It is possible that especially with long-term PPI use zinc absorption and therefore bioavailability may go down.
Table 1. Possible nutrient deficiencies caused by use of medications. ↓ = decreased. The statements in this table and article have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These comments are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Stay tuned for part two of two in this discussion about modern medications and the possible nutrient deficiencies that may occur due to their long-term use. If you have questions about the particular medications you are taking or if you want
to learn more about medication-induced nutrient deficiencies, talk to your medical provider or stop by Annie’s Apothecary and speak with one of our clinical pharmacists today. If you would like a more in-depth discussion about your medications, what nutrients you could be deficient in, or what may be some implications of particular nutrient deficiencies, you can also schedule a one-on-one consultation with one of our clinical pharmacists. Call Annie’s Apothecary today to learn more!
VVaquero Outdoors was never intended to become a fast-growing business with customers across the country. In fact, it began as nothing more than an introductory lesson in entrepreneurship for a then 15-year-old student named Mason DeLaune.
While on a family vacation, Mason doodled a simple “hat” logo on a scratch piece of paper and began brainstorming ideas with his dad. The conversation quickly turned into something more.
“My dad and I have always wanted to create a cool outdoor brand; something you could wear hunting, fishing, in the rodeo arena, or while playing golf. We wanted it to represent people who love the outdoors like we do. It was really important that it be high quality, something we’d want to wear ourselves,” said the young entrepreneur.
A sophomore at the Geneva School of Boerne, Mason already juggles a busy schedule. He plays football and baseball, competes in shooting sports, and spends weekends hunting, fishing, or playing golf with friends. When he’s not outdoors, he enjoys going to concerts or hanging out in Boerne with his parents and twin sister, Madison.
It was only natural that when Mason thought about starting a business, it would center on the outdoor lifestyle he loves.
The name Vaquero Outdoors is a nod to the DeLaune family’s South Texas roots. Vaqueros: the original cowboys were masters of roping, ranching and riding as far back as the 1500s.
“I was surprised by how many people didn’t know what Vaquero meant,” Mason explained. “It’s been fun to share their story and help keep that tradition alive through our brand.”
VAQUEROS: THE ORIGINAL COWBOYS
The brand’s first shipment of hats debuted at Boerne Market Days in December. What happened next surprised Mason.
“The first shipment sold out in one weekend,” he recalled. “I thought it would take me months to move that many caps. That’s when I realized we had something special, and I had a choice, either keep it small and sell to friends, or step on the gas. We went for it,” he laughed.
That decision marked the beginning of Mason’s crash course in business: manufacturing, margins, marketing, adding Vaquero Outdoors apparel lines and the importance of building a support team.
Mason had one big advantage: his parents are both entrepreneurs. They helped guide him through the early challenges of running a business. In addition, family friend Erick Svendson, a graphic designer, came on board to help bring the Vaquero vision to life visually.
With their help, they launched the website VaqueroOutdoors.com and began building a social media following. Orders for caps and apparel soon followed, and Mason found himself shipping from his house and hand-delivering them locally.
“We started selling a lot around Boerne and San Antonio,” Mason said. “But I’ll never forget our first out-of-state order. That was really cool.”
Word spread quickly. Soon, stores began reaching out to carry Vaquero Outdoors products.
“The day I got my driver’s license, I went straight from the DMV to
continued on page 22
Vaqueros were the original cowboys—masters of ranching, roping, and riding since the 1500's. Their grit, independence, and bond with the land shaped the cowboy spirit.
Vaquero Outdoors builds gear inspired by their legacy—for those who live boldly and roam free.
my first sales presentation with Mission Ridge Range in San Antonio,” Mason recalled. “I was nervous, but they placed an order and encouraged me. That gave me a lot of confidence.”
That summer, Mason drove from retailer to retailer, carrying a box of samples and an order form. While he loved meeting people, he also had to learn persistence.
“At first, I’d call a store, leave a message, and wait. My parents told me, ‘They’re not going to call you back. Keep calling.’ That was a big lesson.”
Momentum continued to build until a call from Richardson Hats opened the door to a huge opportunity: a chance to exhibit at the Dallas Market Center for the Western & English Sales Association (WESA).
“To be honest, we didn’t know what to expect,” Mason admitted. “But we set up a booth in August, and retailers from across the country started stopping by.”
The show was a success. By Christmas, Vaquero Outdoors will be carried not just in Texas, but in multiple states and even Puerto Rico.
One of Mason’s favorite experiences at WESA was the support from other established brands.
“Companies like Hyer Boots, Hooey, Wrangler Caps, Harley Davidson Boots, and ProHats took time to sit down with me and share advice. That meant a lot. I feel like I learned more in that week than in months of trial and error.”
WESA also noticed Mason’s success. The organization spotlighted Vaquero Outdoors on its social media platforms and later featured Mason on its podcast, ‘Wisdom by WESA,’ in an episode titled “The Young Founder’s Journey of Vaquero Outdoors.”
The attention hasn’t come by accident. Vaquero Outdoors has gained traction because of its clean, sharp designs, high-quality products, and the authenticity behind the brand. Customers aren’t just buying a hat or apparel, they’re buying into a story rooted in cowboy
heritage and a young entrepreneur’s determination.
Mason insists that quality remains at the heart of everything they do: “We don’t put out anything we wouldn’t wear ourselves and I think people notice that.”
Mason is quick to point out that Vaquero Outdoors wouldn’t be where it is without community support.
“So many people have had a hand in this, everyone who bought a cap or shirt off the website, retailers who placed their first orders, and those who liked and shared us on social media. You don’t know how much that means,” he said.
When asked what’s next, Mason is both ambitious and grounded.
Personally, he is excited to finish high school and then attend Texas A&M University.
Professionally, his goal is to see Vaquero Outdoors in stores across the country.
“If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that all you need is a dream, hard work, and people who support you,” Mason said.
For those in Boerne and beyond, supporting Mason is simple. Vaquero Outdoors offers a full line of caps, t-shirts, long-sleeve tees, crewnecks, and hoodies, all available at VaqueroOutdoors.com.
Follow the brand on Instagram @Vaquero.Outdoors to keep up with new designs, restocks, and events.
What started as a sketch on a scrap of paper has grown into a brand making waves across Texas and beyond. At its heart, Vaquero Outdoors is more than apparel, it’s a story of heritage, grit, and youthful determination.
And for Mason DeLaune, it’s just the beginning.
Donate $20 to purchase a turkey or $40 to purchase a full meal.
Thanksgiving Giveback is The GVTC Foundation’s biggest project of the year where they partner with local food pantries and organizations to collect food items and raise money for families in need to deliver complete Thanksgiving meals. Local food pantries provide The GVTC Foundation with a list of families, and GVTC employees and their families package and personally deliver meals. In 2024, they delivered 518 meals across our service area and 3,700 meals since inception.
The GVTC Foundation starts raising monetary donations and canned goods as early as September and all the way through the second week of November. On the Saturday before Thanksgiving, GVTC employees and their families help package meals for delivery to families.
Donate $40 to purchase a full meal for one family, or donate food from the list now through November 15, 2025.
Monetary donations can be made at www.GVTC.com. Food donations can be dropped off at any GVTC Store. (see list of food items needed)
You also can mail a check to:
The GVTC Foundation
36101 FM 3159
New Braunfels, TX 78132
Or Text-to-Give: Text the word "GIVE" to 830-256-8855
Green
(canned) • Corn (canned) • Gravy (canned or
Stuffing (instant) • Sweet Potatoes/Yams (canned) Aluminum Turkey Roasters • Turkey Oven Bags Frozen Turkey (12-15 lbs, only accepted week of delivery) Loaf of Bread (fresh, only accepted week of delivery)
CommuniCare Boerne
CommuniCare is dedicated to providing integrated primary and specialty care for patients at all stages of their lives, provided by an experienced and compassionate healthcare team. Their services include children and teen health, adult medicine, senior care, women’s health, dental care, behavioral health, specialized care, pharmacy services, and the WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) Nutrition Program. To achieve the best health outcomes for their patients, they offer an innovative and technologically-driven approach to comprehensive care. Ready to schedule an appointment? https://communicaresa.org/boerne-tx
Boerne Sips Nutrition
Boerne Sips Nutrition is Boerne’s new go-to spot for delicious and healthy energy! Their nutrition club is all about fueling your day with Herbalife-powered goodness, from refreshing loaded teas and creamy protein shakes, to energizing coffees, protein donuts, and acai bowls that taste as good as they make you feel. Whether you’re stopping by for your morning pick-me-up, a post-workout boost, or a friendly chat, you’ll always find good vibes, great flavors, and smiling faces here. Healthy never tasted this fun — come sip, smile, and feel your best at Boerne Sips Nutrition! www.instagram.com/boernesipsnutrition
Pizza Volterra Grand Opening
Bringing the authentic flavors of Italy to the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Pizza Volterra is offering a culinary journey inspired by the historic city of Volterra. They are dedicated to crafting true, authentic Roman pizza and panuozzo, vibrant regional salads, and exquisite handmade gelato, locally sourced here in the Hill Country. Whether you’re looking to dine al fresco on their terrazza, grabbing a fresh pie to-go, or craving a taste of Tuscany delivered straight to your door - Pizza Volterra brings Italy to Boerne, one bite at a time. Pizza Volterra is located at The Oak of Boerne, and they invite you to come check them out soon! www.pizzavolterra.com
ADKF is a full-service, public accounting firm offering a broad range of consulting, accounting, and tax services— but what truly sets them apart is their commitment to building strong, long-lasting relationships with every client. Their mission is to go beyond the numbers, serving as a trusted advisor for both personal and business needs in the Hill Country for years to come.We’re thrilled to celebrate ADKF in their new space and can’t wait to see the impact they’ll continue to make in our community. Congratulations, ADKF! www.adkf.com
Cornerstone Caregiving
Cornerstone Caregiving provides compassionate in-home care, including palliative, respite, senior, Alzheimer’s and dementia care, with no minimum hours required. They proudly serve our veterans by guiding them through their benefits process and are participants in Medicare’s new GUIDE program, which offers free caregiver hours to those affected by dementia. Their services also extend to companionship and overall wellness, ensuring dignity, independence, and quality of life. https://cornerstonecaregiving.com
Beyond Blessed Keepsakes believes every treasure has a story to tell. Their passion for timeless antiques and distinctive keepsakes inspires everything they do. As a family-owned store, they are dedicated to creating a welcoming space where you can explore unique finds, connect with meaningful pieces, and discover items that will be cherished for generations. Each keepsake is thoughtfully chosen with care, ensuring that the piece you bring home is more than just an object—it’s a lasting memory to be treasured for years to come. www.beyondblessedboerne.com
Boerne Elite Aquatics 1 Year
Boerne Elite Aquatics is dedicated to creating a positive aquatics organization in Boerne, that focuses on the swimmer, strategic coaching, building confidence, forming relationships, and having fun! They offer year-round programs, adult swimming classes, summer leagues, triathlon teams, water aerobics and more! Interested in getting your kids signed up for classes? Head over to their website and register today! Congrats on 1 amazing year, Boerne Elite Aquatics! www.boerneelite.com
Innova Recovery is Texas’s only dedicated trauma treatment center, providing accessible, high-quality trauma care for people of all ages. Innova offers a range of mental health programs, from outpatient to residential treatment, to deliver comprehensive support tailored to each individual’s needs, both in person and online. With a focus on compassionate care, their licensed therapists specialize in evidence-based, trauma-informed treatment methods. https://innovarecoverycenter.com
Learning healthy behavior patterns is necessary to achieve a more enriched and fulfilling life. At True Counseling, they offer their clients a safe and trusting environment to gain insight into the underlying causes of anxiety, stress, depression, trauma, grief, and how to address them. Whatever the situation, they explore strategies for individuals, couples, and families to help gain control of their lives. Interested in learning more about individual, couple and family counseling services at True Counseling Health Services? Give them a call, head over to their website or stop by and visit them on Main Street! https://truechs.com
Marshall Sparkman & Associates
With nearly 20 years of recruiting experience, Marshall Sparkman & Associates proudly connects top-tier legal professionals with trusted employers across Texas. Whether you’re an attorney, paralegal, or legal support professional, they’re here to provide expert guidance, personalized support, and a career move that aligns with your goals.They also help law firms and businesses connect with high-performing legal professionals. Their approach is hands-on, strategic, and built on real relationships. It’s an honor to have them in our community and we look forward to their many years of success! www.marshall-sparkman.com
Velocity Country Store & Meat Market Grand Opening
Velocity brings Fair Oaks Ranch a one-stop shop with gas, a full-service meat market, hot foods, snacks, groceries, and so much more. offers convenience stores featuring gas stations, meat markets, hot foods, snacks, groceries and more! We’re so excited to welcome Velocity Country Store & Meat Market to the Boerne Chamber family! Be sure to stop by and check out their beautiful new store.
28214 IH-10, Ste 105, Fair Oaks Ranch,TX. 78015
Dermatology Center at Spring Branch
Your skin is tough, but even the toughest skin deserves expert care. The Dermatology Center at Spring Branch strives to deliver the best care possible for your skin. This means specialized attention and care for all patients, as everybody has unique skin which requires personalized treatment and care routine. They offer a wide range of medical and cosmetic services including General Dermatology, Cosmetic Dermatology, Medical Dermatology and MedSpa Services. They’re now accepting new patients! Whether you’re seeking preventive care, treatment, or cosmetic enhancements, their team is ready to help you keep your skin healthy and glowing—so don’t wait! Give them a call today to get on the schedule. www.dermatologynwhouston.com/spring-branch-location
Nova Head Spa offers a variety of massage and head spa services for individuals, couples, and children, with a focus on enriching the lives of clients through transformative treatments. From soothing massages to revitalizing facials, the skilled therapists at Nova Head Spa are dedicated to helping guests achieve complete relaxation and well-being.Their Head Spa Services are designed to rejuvenate both mind and scalp through luxurious sessions that combine soothing massages, nourishing scalp treatments, and calming aromatherapy, relieving stress while promoting overall wellness. Ready to be pampered and restore your inner harmony? Book an appointment now! www.novaheadspa.com
First United Methodist Church 150th Anniversary
For 150 years, FUMC Boerne has been a cornerstone in our community, living out its mission to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. The United Methodist Church is a worldwide denomination that opens hearts, opens minds, & opens doors through active engagement with our world.
FUMC offers both Contemporary (9:30 AM) and Traditional (11:00 AM) Sunday worship services, with music led by their Praise Band at 9:30AM and the Choir & Handbells at 11AM, in a welcoming environment where everyone belongs. FUMC serves families in many ways. www.fumc-boerne.org
Meat Market
Located in the heart of Boerne, Mainz Meat Market is bringing the Hill Country high quality products from some of the best producers around. With Certified Angus Beef, Wagyu, dry-aged ribeyes, sausage, applewood bacon, pork, chicken and more, they’re showing the community that life is too short for boring meat! Congrats and welcome to Boerne, Mainz Meat Market. www.facebook.com/mainzmeatmarket
Bioworx
BioworX is your premier destination for recovery and wellness, conveniently located on Main Street in Boerne, TX. BioworX offers a full range of services designed to help you recharge, restore, and feel your absolute best. From Cryotherapy, IV Drips, and Peptide Therapy to Exosome IV Therapy, Infrared Sauna, Red Light Therapy, Ozone Therapy, NAD+ Therapy, Vitamin Injections, and Compression Therapy—everything you need is right here under one roof. Step into bioworX, relax, and discover the life-changing benefits of advanced wellness and recovery. Visit them today and start your journey to optimal health. https://mybioworx.com/location/san-antonio-boerne
"IT'S NOT ABOUT IDEAS. IT'S ABOUT MAKING IDEAS HAPPEN."
- Scott Belsky
The housing market is not as doom and gloom as it might seem. While we are certainly seeing some issues, we are far from a true crisis.
TThe Texas and national housing markets are experiencing a period of adjustment—and while some headlines may sound concerning, there’s plenty of reason for optimism. Understanding both the challenges and the historical context can help buyers, sellers, and investors navigate today’s market with confidence.
Current Challenges in the Market
Every housing cycle comes with its own set of hurdles, and today’s market is no exception:
• Higher mortgage rates make monthly payments more expensive, slowing some buyers’ ability to enter the market.
• Inventory is growing in our area making the pendulum swing towards a buyer’s market. In many areas of the country inventory is low because homeowners with low mortgage rates are reluctant to sell.
• Affordability pressures continue as home prices have outpaced wage growth in several markets.
• Rising property taxes and insurance costs add to the financial considerations for homeowners.
Even with these challenges, there are encouraging signs. Showings are picking up, buyers remain active, and refinances are increasing as rates settle closer to 6%. For many homeowners who purchased with higher rates in recent years, refinancing now provides a chance to improve affordability and stay in their homes longer.
While today’s market may feel unfamiliar, the U.S. has faced similar conditions before:
• Early 1980s: Mortgage rates soared above 18%, creating affordability challenges—but buyers adapted, and the market eventually stabilized.
• Early 1990s: Certain regions experienced slowdowns due to economic recessions and high interest rates. Those markets recovered as the economy strengthened.
• Post-COVID 2020–2022: Low mortgage rates and limited supply drove a surge in home prices. Today’s higher rates are moderating demand, allowing the market to rebalance.
The takeaway? Every housing cycle has hurdles, yet his-
tory shows that the market adapts. Challenges like high rates or tight inventory aren’t permanent roadblocks—they’re temporary phases that lead to new opportunities. Opportunities for Buyers, Sellers, and Investors
• For buyers: Slower activity means less competition, giving you time to find the right home and negotiate a fair price.
• For sellers: Homes that are well-priced and well-prepared still sell quickly, especially as buyers become more serious.
• For investors: Market adjustments can reveal hidden gems and opportunities in areas with strong long-term fundamentals. Looking Ahead
The Texas housing market—and the national market—has proven resilient time and again. People continue to move to Texas for jobs, lifestyle, and community. While cycles bring challenges, they also bring opportunities to make smart, informed decisions. By understanding the market, working with experienced professionals, and focusing on long-term goals, buyers and sellers alike can navigate today’s market with confidence.
At the end of the day, housing isn’t just about homes—it’s about people, communities, and the life you build within them. The current market may feel different, but it’s far from insurmountable. With patience, planning, and perspective, today’s challenges can become tomorrow’s successes.
by Mike Molewski, ChFC® – Principal | Financial Advisor
Creating a financial plan that can span generations is a powerful way to secure your family’s financial future, protect your assets, and support the continuity of your legacy. Combining that planning with estate and business preservation concepts can help you achieve these goals while addressing the unique needs of each generation.
Multigenerational wealth planning is a forward-looking strategy that goes beyond individual financial goals. It focuses on helping ensure that each subsequent generation has the resources and opportunities to succeed.
Key elements of multigenerational wealth planning include:
Scenario Planning: Modeling wealth and
cash flow scenarios to evaluate which options can help you reach your long-term objectives.
Wealth Transfer: Developing strategies for the tax-efficient transfer of assets to heirs and beneficiaries, including trusts and gifting.
Global Asset Allocation: Determining asset allocation among diverse asset classes such as business holdings, real estate, private equity, and other alternative investments to better align the overall risk profile with long-term goals.
Legacy Planning:
Establishing a clear vision for the family’s legacy, including philanthropic goals and values.
Estate and business preservation are integral components of multigenerational wealth planning. It creates a framework for making longer-term decisions balancing lifetime needs and advanced estate planning objectives with longer-term business and family needs. Advanced planning strategies can be implemented to properly manage estate taxes, thereby preserving your legacy and wealth for future generations.
Estate planning concepts that can be integrated into a comprehensive financial strategy include:
Alternatives and Risk
Management: In-depth financial modeling of scenarios provides a framework to analyze opportunities and risks.
Liquidity Analysis: Identification of strategies to properly manage estate tax and business transfer costs as well as long-term family needs.
Tax Efficiency: Gifting, charitable giving, and the use of trusts to minimize estate and income tax liabilities.
Review of Wills, Trusts, and Beneficiary Designations: Working closely with your estate planning attorney to help ensure you have the appropriate legal documents and structures in place to effectively apply business and estate preservation strategies.
Integrating multigenerational wealth planning and advanced estate planning into an overall strategic financial plan can provide a roadmap for securing your family’s financial future and ensuring your legacy endures. By aligning your financial goals, protecting your assets, and fostering open communication across generations, you can create a well-rounded and flexible plan that benefits your family for years to come.
Choosing experienced professional advisors who specialize in these areas is key to developing a financial strategy that addresses the unique needs of your family and your vision for the future.
Throughout his career, Karl has enjoyed offering opinions on the state of the economy and the financial markets whenever possible. He has hosted a syndicated radio show airing in Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Colorado Springs, and Denver. Karl has been a frequent contributor on various financial news networks, including CNBC, CNBC Asia, Bloomberg, Fox Business, and Reuters. Currently, he hosts a weekly podcast called “Creating Richer Lives,” focusing on living a richer life beyond bank account balances.
Outside of work, Karl enjoys spending time with his wife, Amy, and their two children, Anson and Avery. He also fits in a round of golf whenever possible. (210) 526-0057 | captrust.com/boerne
Boerne Independent School district’s financial efficiency was independently assessed by Weaver and Tidwell, L.L.P. The firm’s objective was to “assess the district’s fiscal management, efficiency, and utilization of resources, and whether the district has implemented best practices utilized by Texas school districts.”
Weaver and Tidwell found that the district’s total operating revenue for all funds for fiscal year 2024 total $8,941 [per student], while its peer districts’ average and State average totaled $11,132 per student and $13,037 per student, respectively.” Additionally, the report found that the district’s “operating expenditures for all funds for fiscal year 2024 totaled $9,361 per student, while peer districts and State average were $10,661 per student and $12,944 per student, respectively.”
For fiscal year 2024, 85% of the district’s funding goes towards payroll, compared to peer average of 84.4% and the state average of 77.8%.
The average Boerne ISD teacher salary of $59,414 was $2,219 less than peer districts and $2,949 less than the state average.
The State of Texas’ school financial accountability rating system, known as the School Financial Integrity Rating System of Texas (FIRST), ensures that Texas public schools are held accountable for the quality of their financial management practices and that they improve those practices. The district’s 2023-2024 rating is an “A”, or Superior.
The district does have a markedly lower number of economically disadvantaged students than its peers and the state. Compared to Boerne ISD’s 20.8%, peer districts average 29.1% and the state averages 62.3%. The district’s 30.8% of students who are on CTE pathways is greater than peer districts’ 27.0% and the state’s 26.9%. To read the entire report, visit BoerneISD.net/vatre.
A public hearing will also be held as part of the October 27 board meeting.
Boerne ISD is one of only 31 districts in the state to achieve 6 straight A-ratings from the Texas Education Agency. Boerne ISD a top-rated public school district serving more than 11,150 students across Kendall, Comal, and Bexar counties. With a reputation for academic excellence, innovative programs, and community involvement, BISD is committed to empowering all students to reach their full potential in a rapidly changing world.
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