Boerne Fair Oaks Ranch Edition | January 2026

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Boerne Fair Oaks Ranch Edition VOLUME 1, ISSUE 9 FEB. 3MARCH 2, 2026

2026 Health & Wellness Edition

Mapping severe depression risk

Managing mental health Kendall County governments, nonprots work to build local mental health network

Risk percentage for severe depression by county

For 2025, Kendall County was identied as the 14th most at-risk county in Texas for severe depression. While the county’s rank has increased, the total number of people at risk for severe depression has decreased year over year.

0-24%

25-50%

51-75% 76-100%

Counties with highest percentage of people at risk for severe depression

1 Calhoun 2 Lamar

5 Falls 6 Upshur 7 Cass 8 Henderson

9 Potter 10 San Jacinto

3 Palo Pinto 4 Lampasas

14 Kendall

BY JARRETT WHITENER

Number of people at risk for severe depression per 100k

An estimated 18-21% of adults in Kendall County experience some form of mental health issue, according to data from Hill Country Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Centers. With nearly 10,000 residents who may experience behavioral or mental health disorders, local nonprots, municipal organizations, school districts and other community partners are working together to meet community needs by expanding mental health services and adding rst responders focused on mental health cases. While organizations come together to create a countywide mental health network, the county continues to be empty of long-term mental health care, leading residents to receive services in Bexar County or other locations outside of Kendall County. Anthony Winn, senior director of mental health at Hill Country MHDD, said providing resources to more rural counties can be a challenge. Still, community networks help ll the gaps in service. Serving 19 counties, Hill Country MHDD is one of 39 agencies that delivers mental health and developmental disability services in communities across Texas. “While it can certainly be logistically challenging, I think the challenge is a worthwhile one, and it is one that we are happy to meet the opportunity of,” he said.

TRAVIS 11.56

KERR 11.67

HAYS 15.45

KENDALL 17.36

COMAL 8.87

GUADALUPE 14.38

BEXAR 12.38

Also in this issue

Impacts

Page 5

Check out Inside 9 Golf, a new golf simulator

Government Page 6 Read an update on the Boerne Buc-ee’s development

SOURCE: MENTAL HEALTH AMERICA COMMUNITY IMPACT

CONTINUED ON 16

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

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BOERNE - FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION

Impacts

Coming soon

BOERNE LAKE

474

5 Texas Regional Bank This Texas-based bank chain is planning to open a brand-new branch in the Hill Country, offering patrons traditional banking services and more. • Opening Feb. 2 • 19 Herff Road, Boerne • www.trb.bank

473

SISTERDALE RD.

ADLERST.

WOODS OF BOERNE BLVD.

Relocations

B LANCORD.

6 The Pearl Antler The boutique relocated from 322 S. Main St. and offers a variety of women’s clothing, accessories, gifts, art pieces and more.

JOHNSRD.

• Relocated in January • 222 S. Main St., Boerne • www.thepearlantler.com

OAK PARK DR.

BANDERA RD.

HERFF RD.

What’s next PERMITS FILED WITH THE TEXAS

DEPARTMENT OF LICENSING AND REGULATION

FAIR OAKS PKWY.

7 H-E-B The supermarket is gearing up for a minor renovation—a $250,000 alteration to approximately 325 square feet of the store. • 420 W. Bandera Road, Boerne • www.heb.com

MENGER SPRINGS 3

MAP NOT TO SCALE

CASCADE CAVERN

3 ACE Plastic Surgery Guided by Dr. Agustín Cornejo, the business offers procedures for face, body, skin and other features. • Opened Oct. 17 • 134 Menger Springs, Ste. 1230, Boerne • www.aceplasticsurgerytx.com

Now open

In the news

1 The Sharing Kind Boutique This new teen-focused shop on the Hill Country Mile features clothing, accessories, handbags and more. • Opened Nov. 22 • 248 N. Main St., Boerne • Facebook: The Sharing Kind 2 The Kendall Restaurant This traditional American steakhouse—which replaced Peggy’s on the Green—features seared meats, specialty sandwiches and more. • Opened Dec. 18

8 State Farm Local insurance agent Ginny Thompson celebrated her 40th anniversary serving the local area with a ribbon-

4 Twelve to Twelve This new bar and lounge offers a variety of cocktails from mixologists plus live music, events and more. • Opened Jan. 20 • 1491 S. Main St., Boerne • Instagram: @twelvetotwelveboerne

cutting ceremony on Nov. 7. • 217 E. Bandera Road, Boerne • www.ginnythompson.com

9 400 Blanco Annex The historical building—now used for county municipal offices—got this new name after a Kendall County Commissioners’ Court hearing on Jan. 13.

• 128 W. Blanco Road, Boerne • www.kendallrestaurant.com

ANTONIAN COLLEGE PREPARATORY HIGH SCHOOL

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS FOR OWNER’S AGENT SERVICES

Kendall County is seeking Statements of Qualifications from experienced firms or individuals to serve as Owner’s Agent for a county-owned building remodel project. Responses will be electronically accepted via Kendall County’s bid portal at https://www.beaconbid.com/solicitations/kendall-county/open, or hard copies may be submitted to Sharon Barter, Kendall County Purchasing Agent located at 201 E. San Antonio Ave, Ste. #112 Boerne, TX. Responses must be received no later than 2:00 P.M. CST on Wednesday, February 25, 2026. Selection of an Owner’s Agent will be made in accordance with the Professional Services Procurement Act, Chapter 2254, Texas Government Code. The Request for Statements of Qualifications may be obtained by emailing purchasing@co.kendall.tx.us or online at https://www.co.kendall.tx.us/page/Open.Bids

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BY ANDREW CREELMAN & JARRETT WHITENER

• 400 E. Blanco Road, Boerne • www.kendallcountytx.gov

Closings

Now open

12 GameStop The nationwide gaming retailer has shut down its sole location in Boerne following a wave of closures across the United States. • Closed Jan. 8 • 1375 S. Main St., Ste. 221, Boerne • www.gamestop.com 13 The Red Rooster The local gift shop and antique store offered a selection of vintage goods, antique gifts and home decor. • Closed Dec. 31 • 225 S. Main St., Boerne • Facebook: The Red Rooster 14 Bush’s Chicken Boerne’s lone location of this fast food restaurant permanently closed. The eatery offered fried chicken tenders and classic Southern sides.

10 Sisterdale Volunteer Fire Department The local volunteer fire department celebrated its 50th year serving the Hill Country with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Jan. 21. • 1207 Sisterdale Road, Boerne • www.sisterdalevfd.org 11 Das Festival of Kendall County A beauty pagent will take place during one of Kendall County’s biggest German festivals this summer. • 215 W. Bandera Road, Ste. 114-854, Boerne • www.dasfestival.org

15 Inside 9 Golf & Social Club A new golf simulator, co-owned by Brendan Bean and Chad Taylor, recently opened. Inside 9 features three public golf simulator bays for 24/7 member access, and a fourth, private, rentable bay for small events, Bean said. Aside from golfing, the hangout spot also has a co-working space with standup desks, a lounge, liquor lockers and more • Opened Dec. 30 • 27650 I-10 W., Ste. 207, Boerne • www.inside9tx.com

Worth the trip

La Panadería Bakery Café This local coffee shop and bakery chain has opened its fifth area location, offering a Mexican-inspired selection of specialty coffee, baked goods and more. • Opened Dec. 17 • 1011 N. Loop 1604 E., San Antonio • www.lapanaderia.com

• Closed mid-December • 1550 Hwy. 46, Boerne • www.bushschicken.com

Two-Time Best Overall Community Texas Association of Builders (2021 & 2023) Grand Developer Award Greater San Antonio Builders Association (2021 & 2022) Best Upscale Development San Antonio Business Journal

Homes from $450-$1M+

Boerne ISD Schools

11 Model Homes

6 Premier Builders

BOERNE - FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION

Government

BY JARRETT WHITENER

Kendall County moves forward with $11.25M Proposition A property purchase Kendall County Commissioners on Dec. 23 approved the purchase of conservation easements and a property to be conserved through the use of Proposition A funds, which were approved by voters in 2022 to support countywide conservation efforts. What’s happening? Around 310 acres of property at Gua- dalupe River Ranch were approved for purchase by county commissioners for around $11.25 million from Proposition A funds. Costs and total acreage of the new county park will be specified following an inspection and survey period. Proposition A Committee Chairman Rusty Busby told county commissioners that demolition of structures was required on the property before the purchase goes through. The county will hold $60,000 in escrow until the demolition requirements are met. Alongside the demolition requirements, the county has a 60-day period to survey the property, and can back out of the purchase should any complications be identified. The loss of backing out would be $1,000 . Legal counsel said the results of the survey should be available within 30 days from the date the inspection begins.

Boerne Buc-ee’s final plat approved by Planning and Zoning Commission The final plat of the Boerne Buc-ee’s has been approved by the Planning and Zoning Commission, marking a major milestone in the project’s progress. Two-minute impact The preliminary plat for the project was approved in 2020, and the 2016 development agreement between the city and Buc-ee’s was updated in October. Planning Director Nathan Crane said the devel- opment agreement is in the final stages of being updated, but nothing in the agreement has changed significantly since the October approval.

Buc-ee's Buc-ee's parking expansion Buc-ee's way

Director of Engineering and Mobility Jeff Carroll said the traffic study was approved Jan. 7. Carroll stated that the last round of comments required for the study pertained to the differences in roadways between the site plan and the computer model submitted. “We just really wanted the model to match what was going to get built out there in the field,” Carroll said. “So, we worked back and forth with consul- tants to get that match.”

Kendall County pursues flood warning system Kendall County Commissioners on Jan. 13 reviewed grant opportunities to repair flood damage caused over the July 4, 2025 weekend. The details

Grant Coordinator Christina Peese said the grant agreement is with the Texas Water Development Board, and county employees are working to iden- tify the placement of flood detection equipment. Peese said an extra $250,000 may be requested if the initial $1 million does not cover the cost of projects deemed necessary. Additional details on the system will be fleshed out in future meetings, and the county will be required bid out the project.

Within the grant approvals was an allotment of $1 million , which could be used for the installa- tion of outdoor warning sirens and flood-related products, according to the agenda.

Fair Oaks Ranch begins strategic plan process Fair Oaks Ranch staff and officials are working on the development of the 2026 Strategic Plan, which is designed to outline future projects and priorities in future budgets. During the development process, residents will have opportunities to provide input on the plan and learn about local needs. The overview City leaders will conduct a series of conversa- tions to identify the challenges the community faces and potential solutions. City Council is scheduled to adopt the plan on May 7.

Project timeline

Phase 1: Initiation Launch the open-ended questionnaire December 2025 - early January 2026 Phase 2: Engagement and Discovery Host open houses and the State of the City January 2026 Phase 3: Issue Identification and Analysis Steering Committee analyzes feedback February 2026 - early March 2026 Phase 4: Draft Plan Development Release draft of plan and make adjustments March - early April 2026 Phase 5: Review and Adoption City Council officially adopts the plan April - early May 2026

474

CAMP ALZAFAR RD.

Kendall County purchase

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

Election

BY SIERRA MARTIN

Voter Guide

2026

Dates to know

Where to vote

Feb. 17: First day of early voting Feb. 20: Last day to apply for ballot by mail (received, not postmarked) Feb. 27: Last day of early voting March 3: Election day and the last day to receive ballot by mail (or 5 p.m. March 4 if carrier envelope is postmarked by 7 p.m. at location of election on election day)

Kendall County residents can vote at any polling location during early voting or on election day. Visit www.kendallcountytx.gov/211/Elections for polling locations.

Only candidates in contested elections are included. Go to county election websites for information on uncontested races. Not all races are included in the ballot below.

KEY: D Democrat R Republican *Incumbent

Kendall County commissioner, Precinct 2 R Andra Wisian* R Richard W. Elkins R J.C. Taylor Kendall County commissioner, Precinct 4 R Chad Alan Carpenter* R Brett D’Spain Kendall County justice of the peace, Precinct 2 R Dave Neighbor* R Vince Robisheaux Kendall County justice of the peace, Precinct 3 R Jon “JT” Tipton R Debby S. Hudson* House of Representatives, District 19 R Ellen Troxclair* R George Cambanis D Kelly Hall D Javi Andrade

R Pete “Doc” Chambers R Arturo Espinosa R Mark V. Goloby R Kenneth Hyde R Stephen Samuelson R Ronnie Tullos R Nathaniel Welch D Patricia Abrego D Chris Bell D Bobby Cole D Carlton W. Hart D Gina Hinojosa D Jose Navarro Balbuena

D Vikki Goodwin D Courtney Head D Marcos Isaias Velez Attorney general R Joan Huffman R Mayes Middleton R Aaron Reitz R Chip Roy D Anthony “Tony” Box D Joe Jaworski D Nathan Johnson Local elections Kendal County judge R Ricky Gleason R Besa Martin R Shane Stolarczyk* Kendall County treasurer

Sample ballot

State elections U.S. Senate R John O. Adefope R Anna Bender R Virgil John Bierschwale

R Sara Canady R John Cornyn* R Wesley Hunt R Gulrez “Gus” Khan R Ken Paxton

D Jasmine Crockett D Ahmad R. Hassan D James Talarico Governor R Greg Abbott* R R.F. “Bob” Achgill R Charles Andrew Crouch R Evelyn Brooks

D Faizan Syed D Zach Vance D Angela “Tia Angie” Villescaz Lieutenant governor R Timothy Mabry R Perla Muñoz Hopkins R Dan Patrick* R Esala Wueschner

R Susanne Presley R Sheryl D’Spain*

SOURCES: KENDALL COUNTY ELECTIONS OFFICE, SECRETARY OF STATE OFFICE/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Come meet candidates and hear where they stand on local issues affecting Boerne and Kendall County. Candidates Forum

A Free Community Event Sponsored and Moderated by Wednesday, February 18, 2026 | 2-4pm The Center 17 Old San Antonio Road, Boerne 78006

BOERNE - FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION

Education

BISD looks into drone system to respond to potential threats

Boerne ISD is exploring improvements to school security and hosted a live demonstration Jan. 9 of a drone system designed to confront armed

intruders in seconds. What’s happening?

Campus Guardian Angel utilizes an Austin-based team to pilot drones housed on school campuses. The drones are designed for use during school shootings, working with law enforcement to stop an intruder and give key information on the location of the threat. Justin Marston, CEO and founder of Campus Guardian Angel, said the primary goal was to have drones operate as the initial response, reaching the intruder in under a minute. By mapping the route of the intruder and utilizing drones to distract or incapacitate a shooter, the technology is designed to help ocers respond while reducing the risk of being attacked by the intruder. “In a school shooting, most of the deaths happen in 120 seconds,” Marston said. “Anything that is going to make a big dierence is going to be there already, and we’ve got to be able to respond really fast.” Rick Goodrich, BISD chief of safety and security, said the district opened its doors the week of Jan. 5 to train around 70 public safety ocials on responses to critical events at schools. “Boerne ISD is committed to making our facilities available for rst responders to be able to train and prepare for that day we hope that never comes,” Goodrich said. How it works Drones are stored in boxes placed around a campus, with around 20-90 drones depending on the campus size. Marston compared the drone network to a sprinkler system, having coverage across a campus. Marston said that through a mobile application and other integrated security systems, district sta can send an alert to a team at Campus Guardian Angel, who will pilot the drones from Austin. Aside from serving as cameras providing intel, the drones can also be used as deterrents or distractions by incorporating sirens, non-lethal weapons or driving the drone into the intruder. Upon drone integration for a campus, Campus Guardian Angel reconstructs a 3D model of the campus to run training scenarios in preparation for a possible intruder event. “The FBI has said that in 50% of mass shootings, a law enforcement ocer gets shot, and we want

A drone demonstration took place Jan. 9 to highlight Campus Guardian Angel’s drone initiative. The drones used pepper pellets meant to disorient an intruder on a mannequin for the demonstration.

PHOTOS BY JARRETT WHITENERCOMMUNITY IMPACT

Drones are stored in boxes placed around a campus, ensuring fast response times to emergencies.

Campus Guardian Angel maps schools to simulate critical emergencies, preparing drone pilots for potential threats.

to bring that number down to as close to zero as possible,” Marston said. “We don’t care if we get shot. We are a lump of plastic, we don’t matter and we just spawn into the next drone like a video game.” What’s next The Jan. 9 demonstration was a pressure test dedicated to highlighting the use of drones along- side public safety ocers. BISD has not signed an agreement with Campus

Guardian Angel to deploy drones on campuses, but district sta said a potential agreement is in the works, possibly bringing the system to the district in the future. While Campus Guardian Angel does not have drones in BISD, multiple districts in the state of Florida implemented the drones in 2025, and select districts in Texas are moving forward with the initiative.

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY JARRETT WHITENER

Year over year, Boerne ISD students continue to perform at higher testing percentages when compared to regional and statewide numbers. On Jan. 20, the board of trustees reviewed the annual report for the 2024-25 school year, highlighting student preparedness, graduation rates and test scores. The details Chief Instructional Officer Larissa Flores said attendance and graduation rates are up, with a graduation rate of 98.4%. Report shows increase in BISD test scores

When comparing test scores from the State of Texas Assess- ments of Academic Readiness, or STAAR, Boerne ISD students in 2024-25 held similar scores to students in 2023-24. While there was a 1% reduction in students who “meet” STAAR test results, the district continues to perform around 15% better than the state average in all categories. One metric measured by the state is college, career and military readiness, or CCMR, which indicates student prepared- ness post graduation. Between 2023-24 and 2024-25, around 5% more Boerne ISD students were identified as prepared, bringing the total to 95%. The regional per- centage was 72%, while the state percentage was 82%, according to the annual report.

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STAAR benchmarks met across the district

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Boerne ISD 2024-25

89%

71%

70%

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36%

100% 25% 50% 75%

Region 2024-25

State 2024-25

74%

75%

Toll Brothers at Caliza Reserve Single-family homes From the upper $700,000s Toll Brothers at Kinder Ranch Quick move-in homes From the low $800,000s Toll Brothers at Enchanted Blu Single-family homes From the mid-$800,000s Toll Brothers at George’s Ranch Single-family homes From the mid-$900,000s Toll Brothers at Thornebrook Single-family homes From the upper $800,000s

Shavano Highlands Single-family homes From the upper $900,000s Regency at Esperanza 55+ Active Adult Single-family homes Flamenco Collection From the low $400,000s Sardana Collection From the upper $400,000s Zambra Collection From the upper $500,000s Toll Brothers at Briggs Ranch Single-family homes From the mid-$400,000s Toll Brothers at Flat Creek Single-family homes Coming soon

47%

50%

19%

21%

100% 25% 50% 75%

SOURCE: BOERNE ISD/COMMUNITY IMPACT

BISD 2026-27 calendar approved

inclusion of three “blue star days,” dedicated to parent-teacher conferences. These days are Sept. 18, Oct. 13 and Feb. 12, 2027. Additional notable days are a four-day Easter weekend, addi- tional workdays at the beginning of the school year and buffer days to be used to make up for bad weather days.

The 2026-27 school calendar for Boerne ISD has been approved, following board of trustee consid- eration Jan. 20. What you need to know The calendar has students beginning the school year Aug. 11 and ending the year May 27, 2027. One of the key differences in the upcoming calendar is the

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BOERNE - FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION

Transportation

BY JARRETT WHITENER

474

Upcoming projects

MAIN ST.

ADLERRD.

Boerne

1 Ammann Road Project: The project includes roadway widening to include a 2-foot buer on either side, drainage and utility improvements. Update: Following the update of the Post Oak development agreement, the lower corner of Ammann Road will be softened during construction.

JOHN'SRD.

SCHOOL ST.

A M M A N N R D .

3351

• Timeline: late 2026 • Cost: $6.41 million • Funding source: City of Fair Oaks Ranch 2 Adler Road

Fair Oaks Ranch

JOHNSRD.

FAIR OAKS PKWY.

SCENIC LOOP RD.

Project: The project will widen the street to three lanes, including a continuous center turn lane from Esser Road to Main Street and construct shared-use paths. Update: The two low water crossings on Adler Road at No Name Creek and Currey Creek were frequently overtopped, creating unsafe conditions. • Timeline: 2025-2028 • Cost: $18 million • Funding sources: City of Boerne, Kendall County 3 School Street/John’s Road intersection Project: The rst phase focused on utility relocation work. The second phase will construct a roundabout.

DIETZ ELKHORN

MAP NOT TO SCALE N

Update: Roundabout construction is expected to begin while Boerne ISD is out during the Summer Break. • Timeline: Summer 2026 • Cost: $1.8 million • Funding source: City of Boerne 4 Dietz Elkhorn Road Project: The $4.9 million Dietz Elkhorn project will reconstruct the roadway and add new shoulders for

pedestrians. Construction will span from Fair Oaks Parkway to FM 3351. Update: In May, a Utility Service Agreement between the city of Fair Oaks Ranch and AD Acquisitions, LLC was approved, providing water and wastewater services for a new residential development o Ralph Fair Road. • Timeline: TBD • Cost: $4.9 million • Funding source: City of Fair Oaks Ranch

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Health & wellness

BY JARRETT WHITENER

Health & Wellness Edition

2026

Welcome to your annual CI Health & Wellness Edition! In Boerne and Fair Oaks Ranch, we know that a healthy community is more than just a phrase; it’s a way of life accomplished through the spirit of togetherness. We care for our neighbors and local business owners as we would for friends and family, because many times they are one and the same. Health and wellness in a community can be a local business opening to provide senior living care, or a natural-goods grocery store providing organic foods. It’s clinical therapy practices oering evening and weekend appointments to ensure support is readily available to all. I am particularly proud of this month’s cover story, which focuses on behavioral and mental health wellness and resilience. The Boerne Police Department, Fair Oaks Ranch Police Department and Kendall County Sheri’s Oce play a critical role in responding to and servicing the immediate needs of community members. In addition, we highlight critical non-prot and behavioral wellness services available to the community throughout Kendall County. We are fortunate to live in an area that cares well for its residents. This edition is made possible by the support and sponsorship of local businesses invested in a healthy, thriving community. We hope that you will support them, our rst responders and non-prots and help keep Boerne and Fair Oaks Ranch a healthy and connected community!

What's inside

Learn about health and wellness businesses new to the Boerne area (Page 12)

Melanie Bostic General Manager mbostic@ communityimpact.com

Check out a guide to Pickleball in the San Antonio area (Page 14)

Read about the services being oered by a locally owned gym (Page 18)

For relevant news and daily updates, subscribe to our free email newsletter!

Boerne ISD Aquatic Learning Center opens to students ltration and automated chemical management systems to maintain optimal swimming con- ditions. The center also has two outdoor rinse stations, boys’ and girls’ locker rooms, visitor restrooms and oce space. Going forward

The long-awaited Boerne ISD Aquatics Learn- ing Center has reached substantial completion, celebrating a ribbon-cutting ceremony Dec. 15. What’s happening? Paid for through 2022 bond funds, the facility oers a new home for aquatic sports for students at Champion and Boerne high schools. According to a Dec. 15 news release, the center features a Myrtha Competition pool, which is the highest internal aquatic standard, with depths from 4 feet to 16 feet. The facility is also Ameri- cans with Disabilities Act-compliant and equipped for competitive swimming, diving and water polo. “We are so excited to have our very own aquatic learning center. This will serve as a dynamic learning environment for our students, and will allow our dedicated athletes the ability to practice and compete on their home turf,” Superintendent Kristin Craft said in the release. The pool has integrated heating, advanced

Beginning in the 2026-27 school year, new pro- grams will be added to the BISD curriculum, giving students the option of enrolling in an Outdoor Life Physical Education course. The fall semester will be focused on aquatic activities, while the spring semester will focus on land-based skills, such as hiking and camping, according to the release. “Community support of Bond 2022 has led to so many amazing upgrades, remodels of existing structures, and additions like this one ... The new facility and courses help strengthen the district’s oerings and set students up for success,” board President Kristi Schmidt said in the release.

The Aquatic Learning Center oers a new home for aquatic sports for Boerne ISD students.

Boerne ISD Aquatic Learning Center

AQUATICS WAY

BOERNE FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION

Health & wellness

BY ANDREW CREELMAN & JARRETT WHITENER

Wellness business trends in Boerne from 2025 Boerne has several new businesses geared toward health and wellness that were in the news in 2025. Included in this guide is a selection of local- ly-owned businesses that cater to healthy living, from a new dental office that treats pediatric clients to a new couples’ therapy service specializing in an array of relationship issues. A closer look Nature’s Presence, a health-focused grocer, rec- ognized its 20th anniversary in business on Nov. 5. “We’ve been in Boerne for 22 years,” Nature’s Presence Owner Mary Lira said. “[The store] was the perfect fit.” Each listing contains some key information about the business, their exact location in Boerne and ways to learn more about the wellness services they offer.

S. ESSER RD.

OLD FREDERICKSBURG RD.

STARR RANCH

RANCHLAND VIEW

PLANT AVE.

W. BANDERA RD.

LEMON CREEK BLVD.

N E. FREDERICK ST.

S. MAIN ST.

HEFF RD.

Lee’s Massage & Head Spa The massage clinic, locally owned by Liping Carey, relocated to a larger space in November. Clients can choose from a range of therapeutic massage services for general pain, post-surgery recovery, sciatica and more. There’s also prenatal massages, lymphatic draining and cupping available. • Relocated in November • 128 W. Bandera Road, Ste. 1, Boerne • www.leesmassageboerne.com

Story of US Therapy Locally-owned by Natasha Smith, this clinic focuses on relationship therapy, including romantic partnerships, intimacy, parents and children and other services. Smith also offers individual therapy for clients. • Opened in September • 1022 River Road, Ste. 8B, Boerne • www.storyofustx.com

Lemon Creek Smiles Dentistry The new dental clinic serves both adults and children, offering general teeth cleanings, periodontics, veneers, wisdom teeth consultations, fillings, crowns and more. There is also an orthodontic branch of the clinic for braces treatments. • Opened Dec. 16 • 10049 Lemon Creek Blvd., Ste. 109-110, Boerne • www.lemoncreeksmilesdentistry.com

Luxxe Salon Suites This regional chain of rentable beauty salon suites opened a new location near Fair Oaks Ranch, offering beauticians fully-equipped spaces for business. Services provided by stylists range from haircuts, nails, waxing, lash extensions and more for clients. • Opened Nov. 2 • 27650 I-10, Ste. 212-215, Boerne • www.luxxesalonsuites.com

Nature’s Presence The local organic and health-focused grocer celebrated its 20th anniversary serving residents in the city on Nov. 5. The business offers customers a range of organic groceries, supplements, natural hygiene care products and more. • 807 N. Main St., Boerne • www.npboerne.com

MAP NOT TO SCALE N

BOERNE 1313 S Main St (830) 249-0115

DOMINION 24603 I-10 (210) 310-3200

VINEYARD 1309 N Loop 1604 W (210) 408-8206

Health & wellness

Pickleball is rapidly gaining popularity across the United States, and that growth can be felt right here in the San Antonio area. According to previous reporting from Community Impact , a new indoor venue called Texas Pickle Hall opened near San Antonio this year. Additionally, three others called The Picklr are planning to open within the next three months across the metropolitan area, plus another called The Outlaw Pickle. According to USA Pickleball's 2024 Annual Growth Report, there is an estimated total of 15,910 public courts throughout the United States. Just last year, nearly 4,000 new courts opened, according to the report. USA Pickleball is the governing body for the sport in the United States. Read about nine of those venues that are now open in and around San Antonio, as well as some tips from the official rulebook on the basic rules of the game and terms to know for beginners. San Antonio’s guide to pickleball

New Braunfels

NB Pickleball Club The club’s facility features three climate- controlled and Seal Master indoor courts. NB Pickleball Club offers lessons with certified professional instructors, open tournaments and open play. The venue also has cameras to see replays from games, special senior events and a junior league. • 1269 Summerwood Drive, Ste. 201, New Braunfels • www.nbpickleballclub.com Cranky Pickle This venue has six outdoor pickleball courts plus two covered courts, a pro shop and gathering spaces for private events. Players can choose to play in leagues for all skill levels, participate in special pickleball events, or take lessons from professional, certified instructors. • 624 Krueger Canyon, New Braunfels • www.thecrankypickle.com John Newcombe Country Club Featuring eight outdoor pickleball courts, this local country club hosts public pickleball clinics and tournaments for all skill levels, has a pro shop for equipment, and also runs special event programming for club members. • 625 Mission Valley Road, New Braunfels • www.newkscc.com/adult-pickleball-programs

The Courthouse This restaurant and sports venue features six indoor pickleball courts and four outdoor padel courts, plus a team of certified coaches for tips and lessons. The courts are attached to a full-service bar and restaurant. • 350 Dragoon Xing, New Braunfels • www.thecourthouse.net

North San Antonio

Epoch Pickleball Home to four indoor, climate-controlled pickleball courts, Epoch Pickleball offers open clinics, tournaments and private events. The pickleball venue also has an on-site business center and pro shop for players. • 21750 Hardy Oak Blvd., Bldg. 2, San Antonio • www.epochcenter.io Dill Dinkers This venue—locally owned by Brian and Karen Birdy—features five indoor pickleball courts available for open play, lessons, leagues and private events for all skill levels. Dill Dinkers also has a pro shop that sells equipment. • 18450 Blanco Road, Ste. 101, San Antonio • https://dilldinkers.com/ The King of Padel Located in the heart of San Antonio, this business offers both indoor padel and pickleball courts, lessons, a pro shop, clinics, tournaments, and more. • 314 Nolan St., San Antonio • www.thekingofpadel.com/padel-san-antonio

Rules of the game

According to the 2025 Official USA Pickleball Rulebook, the sport is played either as singles or in teams of two.

Chicken N Pickle Both a restaurant and a pickleball venue, Chicken N Pickle offers six indoor and four outdoor pickleball courts available for private events, parties and gatherings. The establishment also has equipment rentals, weekly clinics and programming • 5215 UTSA Blvd., San Antonio • www.chickennpickle.com/location/san-antonio

When serving the ball, a player must hit it diagonally across the court to the other team.

Players can only serve the ball once, and the first serve from each team must be completed on the right- hand side of the court. For scoring, points can only be scored by the serving team or player. Games traditionally run until one team scores at least 11 points and wins by more than two points. teams must allow the ball to hit the ground once before returning it over the net and back to the other team The game is based on the two- bounce rule, which means both

Boerne

Boerne Tennis Center Under the city of Boerne Parks and Recreation department, this facility offers private lessons, clinics and private court reservations for both pickleball and tennis. Boerne Tennis Center also operates a pro shop with gear, merchandise and more. • 106 City Park Road, Boerne • www.boernetennis.com

SOURCE: USA PICKLEBALL/COMMUNITY IMPACT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY ANDREW CREELMAN

Terms to know

Northeast San Antonio Metrocom

Fault: any actions that stop play or award a point to the team serving the ball Line calls: any ball that hits the ground on the lines of the court is considered in- bounds Non-volley zone: a 7-foot zone surrounding the net, within which the ball cannot land and the player cannot stand Rally scoring: an alternative scoring method where both teams can score at any time, regardless of who is serving Service sequence: the method in which the ball is served, typically by the player on the right-hand side of the court Side-out: only the serving team can score points in this scoring system Two-bounce rule: after serving, the returning team can only let the ball hit the ground once before hitting it back

Texas Pickle Hall The 28,700-square-foot venue features 12 indoor pickleball courts. Texas Pickle Hall offers league play, tournaments, private lessons and clinics. The venue also has locker rooms and a pro shop.

Alexander Komet, Texas Pickle Hall’s chief operating officer, said their goal is to make the sport more accessible.

• 201 Shin Oak Drive, Live Oak • www.texaspicklehall.com

SOURCE: USA PICKLEBALL/COMMUNITY IMPACT

The Bank & Trust

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118 W. Bandera Rd. in Boerne (830) 443-5437 thebankandtrust.bank

BOERNE - FAIR OAKS RANCH EDITION

From the cover

Managing mental health

Assessing the need

Two-minute impact

Behavioral health process The model maps how people with behavioral health needs encounter and move through the Kendall County criminal justice system after police respond to mental health calls.

Kendall County is similar to the surround- ing rural communities in lacking mental health-focused facilities. Winn said Kendall County is in line with a national increase in demand for mental health. In a fiscal year 2024-25 needs assess- ment, Hill Country MHDD served more than 13,000 individuals across its 19 counties. The Boerne location accounted for around 562 of those cases. “We have seen an increase over the last few years in the need of crisis services, as well as routine services,” Winn said. “In Kendall County, we have seen the trend going up like each of our other counties.”

Around five years ago, the Boerne Police Department hired its first mental health officer, Rebecca Foley. Since its inception, the department has expanded to a second position, held by Eric Gomez, due to increased demand. Mental health officers respond to calls involving potential mental health crises, such as suicide calls, paranoia, psychosis or other challenges. Gomez said mental health challenges affect all age groups, and the police department is focused on serving the community and public safety personnel with peer support, household resources and other assistance to improve mental health. “I would say the majority of what we actually respond to are those crisis calls when people are in a crisis, and they require an emergency detention where we show up, and we do our evaluation to determine whether they need that inpatient stay at a hospital,” he said. Through partnerships with Kendall County, Fair Oaks Ranch, Hill Country Family Services, Boerne ISD and other organizations, the community has access to mental health resources and support. These organizations have come together to develop a network that highlights the process of getting mental health resources to adults and children. Foley said one goal is to have someone from the mental health authority embedded in the police department, allowing mental health evaluations on site. One of the primary challenges of providing services to the community is the lack of inpatient facilities, which means that people in need of professional care often have to seek support outside of the county, said Krista Pomeroy, chief of student support services at Boerne ISD. “Anytime we have a student who’s in a serious crisis, we’re having to transport to San Antonio, to either Clarity [Child Guidance Center] or Laurel Ridge [Treatment Center] or San Antonio Behavioral Health,” she said. Pomeroy said the district has a share-and-care center open to all students who say they are in need. This center offers clothing, food and other household items, helping fill an immediate need while utilizing other resources to get students the proper care. Bryce Boddie, executive director of Hill Country Family Services, said the organization has hired a social worker for the county jail, which is the county’s largest mental health facility. The new role will help inmates access professional assistance and ideally reduce the number of people detained. “The number of folks that we have in the Kendall County Jail with an undiagnosed, unmedicated mental illness is huge,” Boddie said.

Adults (18+)

Children

Community

Crisis care continuum

Crisis lines

Local law enforcement

Hill Country MHDD visits

911

Children

Adults (18+)

Boerne

477

Kerrville

Initial detention

183

1,464

Detention or release

New Braunfels

551

First court appearance

2,099

SOURCE: HILL COUNTRY MENTAL HEALTH AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES CENTERS/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Specialty court

JPD* intake

Jail

What else?

Court

Dispositional court

While many mental health resources are focused on the community, police depart- ments in Kendall County also support public safety officials’ mental health initiatives. Following the July 4 flooding in the Hill Country, more focus was placed on existing mental health support for first responders. Gomez said the stigma of mental health and the fear of losing a job have prevented first responders from having mental health conversations, but peer groups and other initiatives have opened the door for more conversations. “Some people may just need to talk; other people may need some more professional help,” he said. “So, we’re kind of like that guideline of, ‘Hey, this is where we can help you out.’”

TJJD* reentry services

Jail reentry

Prison reentry

Probation

Parole

Community

*JPD: JUVENILE PROBATION DEPARTMENT *TJJD: TEXAS JUVENILE JUSTICE DEPARTMENT

COMMUNITYIMPACT.COM

BY JARRETT WHITENER

Zooming out

Looking ahead

Todd Smith, Fair Oaks Ranch police chief, said there are plans to start a wellness check program for residents age 60 and above, allowing volunteers to help older adults with everyday needs. Smith said one of his goals as police chief has been connecting law enforcement with the community and ensuring residents know police are available for mental health and wellness checks.

According to data from Texas Health and Human Services, adults age 75 and over have the highest risk of suicide compared to other adult age groups, at a rate of 19.5 per 100,000 population in the state. Between 2012 and 2022, adults ages 18-44 have gone from the lowest suicide rates to the sec- ond-highest rate. Data from Texas HHS shows a need for mental health support across all age groups.

While children are not listed in the data set, they are susceptible to mental health challenges, leading school districts like Boerne ISD to offer support, especially post COVID-19 pandemic. “We noticed, especially coming out of the pandemic, that a lot of our kids were experiencing, for example, anxiety or depression, or not able to connect because their social awareness was off,” Pomeroy said.

Adult suicide death rates in Texas, 2017-2022 The adult suicide death rates in Texas per 100,000 population Ages:

“We’re hoping with a program like that we can really get under the hood a little bit more of our community to see what problems they’re facing and to see if we can help them.” TODD SMITH FAIR OAKS RANCH POLICE CHIEF

18-44 45-64

75+ 65-74

2017 2018 2019 2020

2021

2022

Year

SOURCE: TEXAS HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES/COMMUNITY IMPACT

Mental health resources in Kendall and Bexar counties In the U.S., the national suicide and crisis lifeline is available by calling or texting 988. There is also an online chat at 988lifeline.org.

Keep in mind

Regardless of mental health needs, county organizations are dedicated to getting residents available resources. “I think what we have been doing is trying to fill in the gap so that people have long- term counseling solutions, psychiatric access, psychiatric med access, and then overall on a kind of macro level, making sure the whole county understands what trauma is,” Boddie said.

Kendall County Mental Health Center* 221 Fawn Valley Dr., Ste. 500, Boerne 830-249-9328

Hill Country Family Services

Genesis Counseling Center

Clarity Child Guidance Center

Laurel Ridge Treatment Center

17720 Corporate Woods Dr., San Antonio

101 Woods of Boerne Blvd. #200, Boerne 830-967-7422

114 W. Advogt St., Boerne

535 Tom Slick Ave., San Antonio

210-491-9400

830-249-8643

210-616-0300

*THE KENDALL COUNTY MENTAL HEALTH CENTER IS BOERNE'S HILL COUNTRY MHDD LOCATION.

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