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Volume 7, Issue 06: December 2014
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BOERNEb u s i n e s s m o n t h l y
GREAT REASONS TO SHOP LOCAL THIS CHRISTMAS
LAST MINUTE TAX PLANNING FOR 2014
LOCAL NEWS & INFO
WHERE DISTINCTIVE DESIGN MEETS UNSURPASSABLE QUALITY
Customized Phone Plans
The Fastest Internet Speeds
24/7 Security Monitoring
Fiber for Future Growth
Crystal Clear Cable TV
1 ( 8 0 0 ) - F O R - G V T C G V T C . C O M
Communication tools are your lifeline to success—whether operating a home setup or a bustling offi ce. Lightning fast Internet
speeds, fl exible voice plans, and future-ready fi ber-optic technology are just the beginning. GVTC is unveiling groundbreaking ideas that will give you virtual control of your communication systems. We’re continually innovating and introducing business-critical ideas to give your company the competitive advantage it needs.
keep you ahead.While competitors
look over your shoulder, GVTC communication
solutions will always
GVTC1006 Business Ad Series.indd 1 11/3/11 10:55 AM
boernebusinessmonthly.com 3
Karl J. Eggerss President & CEO
www.eggersscapital.com
114 E. Highland Boerne, Texas 78006
210.526.0057 1.888.511.1211
Eggerss Capital Management (ECM) is a Registered Investment Advisory firm based in Texas and registered with the Texas State Securities Board.
Tune in to The Eggerss Report,Your Investing Playbook Saturdays at 7:00 a.m. on
930AM THE ANSWER
Dpublisher's note
Boerne Business Monthly is published by Distinct Media, LLC, copyright 2014. Reproduction is strictly prohibited without prior consent of the publisher. Opinions expressed in Boerne Business Monthly are those of the writers or sources and do not necessar-ily represent the views of the publisher, nor do they constitute the endorsement of products or services herein. Although the information and recommenda-tions in this publication have been compiled from sources believed to be reliable, Boerne Business Monthly makes no guarantee as to, and assumes no responsibility for, the correctness, sufficiency or com-pleteness of such information and recommendations.
publisher
LAUREN TUTTLE STUMBERG
director of sales & marketing
RUSTY MEADORart direction
DISTINCT MEDIA, LLCdistribution manager
DAVE WILD
for more information
210.219.6735
BOERNE, TEXAS 78006
WWW.BOERNEBUSINESSMONTHLY.COM
Don’t you just love Boerne during the Christmas season? Main Street’s beauty is magnified by the addition of thousands of glowing, glittering lights, there are plenty of fun festivities to take part in and there’s a cheer in the air that only comes once a year. This truly may be the most wonderful time of the year! This issue of BBM we remind you the importance of shopping local this holiday season, bring you some great end-of-the-year last minute tax advice from our friends at ADKF and offer up some great articles to help your holiday run a little bit smoother this year. Our cover feature is Authentic Custom Homes, a long-standing Boerne business committed to bringing their clients outstanding quality and design.
May you all have a Merry Christmas and a blessed holiday season,
Lauren T. StumbergPublisher
facebook.com/boernebusinessmonthly
boernebusinessmonthly.com 5
Custom Built Homes from the $500sIn-Town Location
Now Taking Lot and Commercial Space Reservations
Baron W. Houser | (210) 313-7677Call for More Information
136 Old San Antonio Road, Ste 205Boerne, Texas (Garden Oaks Office Park)
830.214.1565www.HearLifeAgain.com
Hear Life Again™
08:
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your SPACE
December 2014
contentsgiving5 Great Reasons to Shop Local + How to Give Great Gifts
financialEggerss Capital Management Makes Its Home in Boerne
vehicle maintenanceWinter is Hard on More than Your Outdoor Plants
calendar
cover featureAuthentic Custom Homes:
Where Distinctive Design Meets Unsurpassable Qualityby Denise R. Marcos
ribbon cuttings
taxesLast Minute Tax Planning for 2014by Sara Blackmore, ADKF
newsworthy
planningGet Your Business on Track for the New Year
celebrateEnjoy Less Stress, More Fun This Holiday Season
holiday recipeHot Chocolate & Eggnog Cookies
artMooney Makes Sense: Oil on Copper – The Forgotten Formula
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ON THE COVER (LEFT TO RIGHT): SALLY PEÑA, ADRIANNE CARNES, ISRAEL PEÑA, KIM MCCLELLAND & TRICIA PEÑA
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boernebusinessmonthly.com 7
James Kennell, DCMichael Garcia, DC
115 Highway 46 WBoerne, TX 78006
830-249-8900
www.boernewellnesschiropractic.com
Health by ...ChoiceNot by !Chance
Achieving maximum health and wellness through
chiropractic care.
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8 Boerne Business Monthly | December 2014
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TThe Holiday Season is here and we all know what that means, it’s time to shop. But before you hit the highway to head out of town – STOP! Here are five very good reasons to keep your Christmas shopping local:1. Keep Dollars in the Local Economy: Money spent in locally owned businesses has three times the impact on our local community as dollars spent at national chains. When you choose to shop local, you are simultaneously helping to create jobs, fund more city services through sales tax, investing in community improvement and promoting community development.2. Protect Boerne’s Character and Charm: Boerne’s unique mix of local businesses is part of what makes our town so attractive. By supporting these independent, small businesses you are helping Boerne retain its distinctive local flavor.3. Community Well-Being: Locally owned businesses help strengthen towns by sustaining communities, linking neighbors and contributing more to local causes and charities. Additionally, local ownership means that important decisions are made by people who live and work in our community and who will be affected by the impacts of those decisions. 4. Customer Appreciation: Small business owners value your business. Local shops survive by their reputation and repeat business, which means you are likely to get a higher standard of service and customer care.5. Product Diversity: Small businesses sell products based upon their own interests and the needs of their local customers, this guarantees a much broader range of products and services.
5 Great Reasons to
Shop LocalThis Christmas!
BBM
boernebusinessmonthly.com 9
I
Time for a Second Opinion on your Financial Future?
Call Cisneros Financial Services Today for a Risk-Free Review.
For over 40 years, Cisneros Financial Services, in conjunction with Russell Investments, a global leader in multi- manager investing, has been consult-ing with and advising individuals, sole proprietors and business owners on strategies to help maximize their investment return in an ever-changing market. If you are: • Retired and receiving distributions from an IRA • Contributing to a profit sharing plan • Looking to diversify away from non-performing investment vehiclesContact us today for a free, no-risk consultation to
get a second opinion on your financial future!
13 Upper Balcones Road | Boerne, Texas 78006(830) 249-9900 | www.cisnerosfinancial.com
Securities & Advisory Services offered through VSR Financial Services, Inc., A Registered Investment Adviser and Member NASD/SPIC.
Cisneros Financial Services is independent of VSR.
PRESERVING THE PAST. . .
•Health & Medical•Clean Industry•Corporate Headquarters•Retail & Service
•Resort & Conferences•Higher Education•Existing Business & Industry Expansion
830.331.9070 • WWW.KENDALLCOUNTYEDC.COM
Kendall County provides a thriving business environment with an unmatched quality of life.Growth Targets for Kendall County include:
• Business-Friendly Attitudes • Resources to Support Business Growth • Highly Educated Workforce • San Antonio Amenities 25 Minutes Away • Texas Hill Country Lifestyle
This Christmas!
It is better to give than to receive, however the stress of choosing the perfect presents for your family and friends can take the joy out of holiday gift giving. Even the most talented gift-givers have a hard time trying to figure out what to give their grouchy uncle or persnickety boss. However, by following these few simple tips you are sure to make the process of choosing this year’s Christmas presents much easier.
Don’t buy to impress. When giving presents, it’s not the name on the label or the size of the box that will determine if the gift will be well received. Instead, think if the person getting it will be able to get good use out of it or enjoy it. Even expensive presents can be bad presents if they aren’t a good fit for the recipient.
Do give presents that bring back or make memories. Creating a photo book of pictures for your sister of old images from your childhood or simply a great family photo in a nice frame for the recipient’s desk are two great ideas to bring back fond memo-ries. If you’d like to make new memories with the person, consider gifting an experience you can do together. A relaxing day trip to a local spa for you and the recipient is a great gift. For something a bit more grandiose, consider giving your family the gift of a special vacation.
Do get a gift receipt. Even if the gift isn’t quite what the recipient may have had in mind, in the end it really is the thought that counts and they will be glad you remembered them this Christmas season. However, being able to easily return a gift that may not fit or may go unused is always appreciated, so gift receipts are always a good idea just in case.
Don’t buy gifts because you want them for yourself. Good gifts are those that reflect the wants, needs and interests of the receiver. For example, just because you enjoy fishing does not mean that your wife would like to unwrap a brand new fishing pole on Christmas morning.
Do ask what the person wants. Asking what someone wants for Christmas is not lacking in thoughtfulness, in fact it is the exact opposite. It shows you really want to get them something that they need or want.
Do give gift cards. When all else fails you can always give gift cards. However, don’t just grab any old gift card off the rack, really think about where the recipient likes to eat and shop.
HOW T O GIVEGreat Gifts!
BBM
10 Boerne Business Monthly | December 2014
Eggerss Capital Management (ECM), a registered investment advisory firm, has recently made its home in downtown Boerne at 114 E. Highland. ECM was established in 2010, and takes pride in meeting the investment and financial planning needs of clients locally as well as throughout the state and nation. After extensively remodeling a building built in the late 19th century, Eggerss Capital Management moved their operations to Boerne on May 19th.
When asked what prompted him to move the company to Boerne, President and CEO, Karl Eggerss replied, “I felt as though we could offer unique services to the growing Hill Country. Many people in the area are tired of dealing with sales people who work for really large investment companies pushing products. Being a fee-based firm, clients don’t have to worry about the conflict of interest with commission based financial products at Eggerss Capital Management.”
Mr. Eggerss added, “To put it simply, we offer sound advice, and our clients enjoy the fact that they get to talk to the people making the investment decisions. Our clients also enjoy the intimate nature of our firm, where they can always count on a close working relationship with everyone here. We are excited to be a part of this community and look forward to the long term relationships we will develop here."
ECM also has a weekly morning radio program, “The Eggerss Report”, which can be heard on 930AM THE ANSWER every Saturday from 7:00 - 8:00 AM. The Eggerss Report radio show is a weekly investing “playbook",
Eggerss Capital Management’s Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting.
which helps listeners understand different types of investment strategies as well as what’s causing the various financial markets to move. Karl Eggerss enjoys offering discourse to the public on all things finance and has been a contributor on several national TV networks such as FoxBusiness and CNBC. He can also be seen frequently on KENS 5 Sunday morning news.
Go to eggersscapital.com to learn more about the latest addition to the Boerne business community.
INVESTMENT ADVISORY FIRM MAKES THEIR HOME IN DOWNTOWN BOERNE
EBBM
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boernebusinessmonthly.com 11
www.akinfmc.com
Healthcare the way it USED to be
Modern Medicine at an Old-Fashioned Pace
Boerne’s fi rst Concierge Practice
518 N. Main Street Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 249-5400
emember when...the doctor made house calls?
PERSONAL SERVICE AVAILABLE IN HANDSHAKES AND HANDHELDS.
frostbank.com
Boerne Financial Center
1300 South Main Street
Boerne, Texas 78006
(830) 249-6633
M E M B E R F D I C
With the Frost App for iPhone® and AndroidTM you can deposit checks, transfer funds, find nearby locations and talk to a real person at the bank with a single tap.
12 Boerne Business Monthly | December 2014
veh
icle
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nten
ance
WHill Country Group
• Major Medical Health Plans• Individual & Small Group
• Life Insurance• Medicare Supplemental Plans
Richard D. Sena830-428-00182 Spencer Rd, Ste. 102 Boerne, [email protected]
Something for everyone:• State-of-the-art
equipment• Afterschool programs• Group exercise
classes
• Youth sports • Family Events• Pilates Reformer• And more!
More than a gym, we’re community. JOIN TODAY!
WINTER IS TOUGH
on more than your outdoor plantsWith the drop in temperatures just around the corner this is a good time to think about bringing some of your outdoor plants inside, wrapping the pipes and a cold whether check-up for your vehicle.
The cold can be just as hard on your car or truck as the South Texas summer. Some things to keep in mind are anti-freeze, wiper blades, hoses, tires, brakes and batteries. A little prevention goes a long way.
Anti-freeze is obvious but here are a few other things to thinks about and have checked.
• Wiper blades - South Texas winters can be wet and bad wiper blades can make driving dangerous. Besides new wiper blades are like new socks, they just feel good.
• Hoses - Your hoses take a beating during the hot months and with the cold can become dry and crack so have them checked to make sure you don’t have any leaks or major problems about to happen.
• Tires – Having good tires on your vehicle is always a good idea and your local Ford dealer guarantees the low-est price on name brand tires. SO, before you head out on that holiday road trip have some new rubber put on your vehicle, you’ll be glad you did.
• Brakes – It’s a good idea to have these checked while your vehicle is being winterized just to make sure that you can stop just as well as you can go.
• Batteries – Having your battery tested could save you being stuck somewhere looking for help. It is better to be safe than sorry so have it checked.
Most automotive dealers have a winterizing special in their service department. Taking advantage of these specials will save you money and possible trouble down the road.
JOIN JENNINGS ANDERSON FORD AND SPREAD A LITTLE GOOD WILL THIS
HOLIDAY SEASON!Until December 15th, Jennings Anderson Ford will be collecting food items to support Hill Country Daily Bread and Hill Country Family Services during their FILL THE FORD WITH FOOD Holiday Food Drive. Help us Fill the Ford with Food this holiday season. Bring in at least 5 non-perishable food items and receive a *$19.95 oil change and a FREE 27 point inspection and car wash at Jennings Anderson Ford. Offer good until January 31, 2015. *Gas engines only, some restrictions apply. See dealer for details.
BBM
boernebusinessmonthly.com 13
CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON SPONSORED BY SONORA BANK 11:30am to 1:00pm | Boerne Civic Center820 Adler – Boerne$35/members and $40/future members, www.boerne.org for more info.
DECEMBER 4GREATER BOERNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RIBBON CUTTING FOR LAWING FINANCIAL 5:30pm to 6:00pm | 206 S. Saunders – Boerne
DECEMBER 6WEIHNACHTS PARADE 6:00pm to 10:00pm | Main Street – BoerneA magical Hill Country Christmas Event!
DECEMBER 6-7OMA’S CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR 9:00am to 4:00pm | Kendall County Fairgrounds1307 River Road – BoerneYou will find all your Christmas shopping easy to han-dle with every type of unique gift available at Oma’s.
DECEMBER 8KENDALL COUNTY COMMISSIONERS COURT 9:00am to 11:00am | Kendall County Courthouse201 E. San Antonio Ave. – Boerne
DECEMBER 9GREATER BOERNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SPECIAL EVENTS NETWORKING SPONSORED BY BRANDED T RANCH 5:30pm to 7:30pm | 322 Wengenroth – Kendalia, For businesses who plan special events or take a part in services for special events. www.boerne.org for more info.
LIVE AT THE LIBRARY - KEVIN MCCORMICK & RACHEL MCCORMICK6:00pm to 8:00pm | 451 N. Main St., Bldg. 100Classical guitar and holiday music. This musical concert is sponsored by the Boerne Public Library Foundation.
CALENDAR OF EVENTSDecember 2014
ALL MONTH LONG:CHRISTMAS LIGHTS FEST AT THE DON STRANGE RANCH Beginning at 6:00pmAmazing holiday light displays featuring two million lights along two scenic miles at the Don Strange Ranch. Get $5 coupon, tickets and directions at www.sanantoniochristmaslightsfest.com
DECEMBER 2GREATER BOERNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RIBBON CUTTING FOR SHABBY PALETTE 11:30am to 12:00pm | 402 E. San Antonio Ave. – Boerne
GREATER BOERNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RIBBON CUTTING FOR ENT CLINICS OF SAN ANTONIO 1:00pm to 1:30pm | 34910 IH 10 W., Ste. 301 – Boerne
DECEMBER 3GREATER BOERNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
continued on page 26
Member SIPC
Merry ChristmasDuring this holiday season and every day of the year, we wish you all the best.
www.edwardjones.com
Ron WardenFinancial Advisor
215 W Bandera Rd, Ste 113BBoerne, Texas 78006830-249-8286
Rebeca ShortFinancial Advisor
104 Medical DriveBoerne, Texas 78006830-249-4630
Allyson MunsellFinancial Advisor
1011 S Main StreetBoerne, Texas 78006830-249-2748
14 Boerne Business Monthly | December 2014
Wby Denise R. Marcos
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When Israel Peña began his career as a designer many years ago, he was confident that his talent and expertise would bring him success, but he did not foresee that his hard work would open a door for him to establish one of the most successful design/build firms in South Texas. Before setting out on his own and while working for a local builder, Peña felt that there was still something missing in his career. He saw this an opportunity to create designs that were not only beautiful to the eye, but ones that
WHERE DISTINCTIVE DESIGN MEETS UNSURPASSABLE QUALITY
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pictured: (top row, left to right): Kim McClelland, Sally Peña, Adrianne Carnes; (seated) Tricia and Israel Peña
also embraced beauty in someone’s lifestyle—design that combined visual appeal with every day functionality and built with those things in mind. It was with this realization that Authentic Custom Homes was born.
The difference, Director of Operations Adrianne Peña Carnes said, is not only in the architectural components that their team incorporates into each home they construct, but mostly the design as a whole, from the outside to the inside and all the elements unseen to the eye. It’s the most important thing that separates them from the many other custom homebuilders in South Texas.
“Our designs are what make us unique. Israel and our interior designer Teri Froetschel, have a combined 30+ years of experience in this industry. They collaborate with each other on important parts of the homeowners’ lifestyles to come up with plans that meet the clients’ needs. Teri works very closely with the owners themselves on creating a home that they can not only live in, but a home they will love,” Carnes said.
Since it was founded in 1989, the company has continued to build on the philosophy of pro-viding an exceptional approach in designing houses that are distinct and made of the highest quality materials, while still implementing the modern conveniences of today into each home they build.
Based out of Boerne, it is not uncommon that many of ACH’s clientele enjoys the ambi-ance of a Texas Hill Country home, but Peña is not limited to creating masterpieces of any particular style. From more simplistic looks like transitional and modern to more elaborate designs of Old World and French Country, Peña and his team find a perfect blend to meet all the needs of their customers.
“People here still love the Texas Hill Country style, but it is definitely moving toward more simple-lines. The open-concept floor plan is still very much a priority to our homeowners. I don’t think that is something that will ever go away,” Carnes said. “It promotes conversation and is definitely great for entertaining.”
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16 Boerne Business Monthly | December 2014
continued from page 15
Peña’s designs aren’t just based on the architectural design and functionality of a home; he also draws inspiration from the surroundings and location of the house itself, creating beautiful designs that incorporate and complement the great outdoors.
“Israel really loves bringing elements from the outdoors inside the home. It’s one of the many reasons his designs are so popular, especially here in the Hill Country where a lot of people really enjoy being outside and enjoying what it has to offer,” Carnes said.
Through the use of expansive picture windows that give the illusion of being outside or stone or wood features that provide a focal point for a room, every living area within a space built by Authentic Custom Homes is carefully thought through from start to finish.
“It’s about at least a year-long process, but everyone on our team is very involved in each step,” Carnes said. “We have each client fill out a lifestyle enrichment workbook. This helps us understand what their priorities and wants are. We then develop a floor plan together and present it to them. After that, we move to idea books
on the exterior and interior and take into consideration whatever the client gives us as inspiration. Once the customer commits to the design, then we’ll start really making headway on the project.”
One thing Authentic Custom Homes proudly stands by in each of its designs is its focus on using energy-efficient and environmen-tally sustainable resources through-out the home, from tank-less water heaters, foam insulation, high efficiency HVAC and much more. The energy effi-cient technology ACH uses gives its customers the value reassurance of a home built from Authentic Custom Homes.
“About 10 years ago, the mar-ket was moving in the direction of using environmen-tally-friendly materials. We knew that not only was it just a better way of building in general, but one that would give our homeowners long-term benefits of owning a green home,” Carnes said. “It’s a direction we knew we had to take, and one that we were happy to
move toward.”Having built a reputation on
offering the finest quality designs and construction in South Texas, Authentic Custom Homes has yet another thing that sets them apart from the flock.
“We are fortunate to have all the important parts of creating a truly custom home under one roof. From our architect, interior designer and proj-ect managers, we work together as a team to offer our homeowners an experience that doesn’t only take their priorities into consideration, but we communicate with each other on a regular basis to make sure what they want is what we provide and that we are all on the same page,”
Carnes said. “We have established great relationships with many trade partners in the industry from mortgage companies to suppliers and contractors. It is these things that have made us so successful for the last three decades.”
achomes.comBBM
boernebusinessmonthly.com 17
Bailey Tuttle is a licensed massage therapist and owner of Boerne Bodyworks and Massage.
210.248.6165 to schedule an appointment
Located inside of Barbie’s Salon & Spa725 N. Main – Boerne
swedish | deep tissue | hot stone | therapeuticaroma therapy/essential oils
RELAX.UNWIND.GET A
MASSAGE.
rib
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sGreater Boerne ChamBer of CommerCe
riBBon CuttinGs – oCtoBer/novemBer 2014
The PEO Link, Inc. has moved! President Lee Chapman and his consultants/staff members have moved to 31320 IH 10 W., Ste. B in Boerne. The PEO Link, Inc. is a Professional Employment Organization Services broker. Their professionals carefully analyze and match businesses needs to the proper Professional Employment Organization or “PEO”. Their “one stop shop solution” will save a company countless hours of work and dili-gently researches the market and negotiates incredibly low rates for the proper selection. Contact Lee and the professionals at The PEO Link, Inc. to find your PEO at (830) 981-5465 or www.thepeolink.com.
Fredo’s Ristorante’s owner Solomon Abdo and wife Jeanine were joined by family, staff and Chamber Ambassadors at the ribbon cutting for their new restaurant located at 812 N. Main Street in Boerne. They provided samplings of their delicious menu items which were enjoyed by all in attendance. Jeanine bakes the desserts on a daily basis, so everything is fresh. Be sure to stop by Fredo’s Ristorante for some wonderful Italian food. You can call for reservations at (830) 816-5577 or visit their website at www.fredosristorante.com.
The American Red Cross Hill Country Chapter now is serving Boerne, Texas. The Hill Country Chapter was chartered on December 31, 1917, as the Kerr County Chapter of the American Red Cross. In July of 2011, the chapter joined the Central Texas Region. The history of the Hill Country Chapter parallels the calami-ties and disasters that have befallen the area. Hurricanes, floods, explosions, fires and the effects of war on local residents are backdrops to their story. Ways that the American Red Cross helps communities is disaster relief, supporting America’s Military families, providing lifesaving blood, health and safety services and international services. You can contact Jacques DuBose at the American Red Cross Hill Country Chapter at 830-608-9876 and they are located at 333 Earl Garrett Street in Kerrville, Texas. www.redcross.org/Kerrville.
The Carriage House Gallery is unique in that it is both owned and operated by its twelve fine art “partner” artists who offer a diverse collection of high quality fine art including sculptures in bronze, reliefs in modi-fied gypsum, paintings in oil, acrylic, and water color, photography with a fine art flare, unique pottery, and mixed media at affordable prices. The artwork is always fresh and you can count on finding original fine art to fit your interest. Additionally the gallery offers museum quality reproductions, as well as prints and cards. Please feel free to stop in The Carriage House Gallery located at 110 Rosewood Avenue in Boerne. You can also contact President Pamela Gardner at (830) 248-1184 or visit their website www.carriage-housegalleryofartists.com to view the wonderful variety of art available at the gallery.
Art & Pam Burdick officially dedicated the Burdick Community Center at MeadowLand, Roy Maas’ Youth Alternatives campus at 121 Old San Antonio Road in Boerne, Texas. The “Arthur and Barbara Burdick Community Center” is named for the parents of long time supporters Art & Jeff Burdick and the entire Burdick family. The Roy Maas Youth Alternatives is a nonprofit agency which serves abused, neglected and abandoned children. The Burdick Community Center opened in 2012 for use by the children of MeadowLand; the MeadowLand Charter School; and individuals, businesses and agencies within the Boerne community and surrounding area. In addition to special events for the children, the Center is a favorite venue for evening and weekend rentals. All proceeds from the rentals benefit the children they serve. For more information about the Center you can call Katherine Stroup at (830) 816-2425 and visit their website www.burdickcommunitycenter.com.
DON’T FORGET YOUR HOLIDAY GIFT CERTIFICATES!!
18 Boerne Business Monthly | December 2014
Ata
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As the end of the year sneaks up on us once again, it’s time to consider any last-minute tax planning moves to save taxes on your 2014 return and into the future. This year, year-end planning poses some special challenges, as Congress has yet to act on a long list of favorable tax provisions that expired at the end of 2013. These tax breaks may very well be retroactively reinstated and extended as they have been in the past, but due to the elections on November 4th it is likely that Congress will not make a decision on these provisions until the very end of 2014 (or even early 2015). As soon as an update on the status of the expired tax provisions is available, we will be sure to let you know. In the meantime, there are still steps you can take to reduce your tax bill for 2014 based on the current tax law. Contact us at your earliest conve-nience if you would like to discuss a tax saving plan specific to your current circumstances.YEAR-END STRATEGIES FOR INDIVIDUALS
• Use stock losses to offset capi-tal gains during the year while sub-stantially preserving your investment position. This can be done by selling the original holding at a loss and then buying back the same securities 31 or more days later. We advise that you discuss any year-end trades with your CPA or investment advisor.
• Dispose of passive activities with suspended passive activity loss-es. It may make sense to dispose of holdings in passive activities that continue to generate losses that are suspended due to passive activity loss limitations. This will allow you to recognize the suspended losses in the year of disposition.
• Evaluate traditional IRAs con-verted to Roth IRAs earlier in the year. If the account has declined in value, it may be beneficial to recharacterize the account back to a traditional IRA to avoid having to recognize the amount of the original conversion as income for 2013.
• If you can coordinate doing so with your employer, it may be advantageous to postpone bonuses until 2015.
• Accelerate the payment of deductible expenses such as property taxes and charitable contributions. You can use a credit card to pay the expenses and they are deductible in 2014, even if the credit card is not paid until 2015. Additionally, consider making payments for miscella-neous deductions, such as professional dues and job-related expenses, in December rather than January in order to exceed the 2% of AGI threshold. This “bunching” strategy also applies to medical expenses in
order to exceed the 10% of AGI threshold.• If you have not yet set aside the maximum amount allowed in
your employer’s health flexible savings account, consider doing so now.
• If you are eligible to make health savings account (HSA) contri-butions in December of this year, you can make a full year’s worth of deductible HSA contributions for 2014.
• Make gifts in the amount of the annual exclusion ($14,000 per donee) to save gift and estate taxes. This may also save family income taxes if appreciated or income-producing property is gifted to family members in lower tax brackets who are not subject to the kiddie tax.
• High-income taxpayers should be wary of the 3.8% surtax on cer-tain unearned income and the addi-tional 0.9% Medicare tax that applies to wages in excess of $200,000 ($250,000 for married taxpayers fil-ing jointly and $125,000 for married taxpayers filing separately). YEAR-END STRATEGIES FOR BUSINESSES AND BUSINESS OWNERS
• Accelerate purchases of busi-ness machinery, equipment, and other depreciable assets. If these assets are placed in service before the end of the year, generally a half-year’s worth of depreciation is allowed. Additionally, these assets may qualify to be expensed entire-ly in the first year under section 179. Under current tax law, section 179 expense for 2014 is limited to $25,000 and phases out when the amount of property placed in service for the year exceeds $200,000.
• The “de minimis safe harbor election” is also available for busi-nesses. This election allows for businesses to expense the costs of
inexpensive assets and materials and supplies that are not required to be capitalized under the Code Sec. 263A uniform capitalization (UNICAP) rules. To qualify for the election, the cost of a unit of prop-erty cannot exceed $500 (or $5,000 if the business as an applicable financial statement (e.g. audited financial statement with an indepen-dent CPA’s report). We recommend that you consult with your CPA on your specific situation before expensing such items to ensure that your business meets all of the requirements for the election.
• Corporations should consider accelerating income from 2015 to 2014 if doing so will prevent the corporation from being pushed into a higher tax bracket for 2015. Conversely, corporations should consider
by Sara Blackmore, ADKF
Last Minute Tax Planning for 2014
boernebusinessmonthly.com 19
deferring income until 2015 to avoid moving into a higher tax bracket for 2014.
• If a corporation has a small corporation alternative minimum tax (AMT) exemption to preserve, it may be advantageous to defer income until 2015 in order to do so. Note that once a corporation fails to qualify for the exemption in any given tax year, it will not qualify for the exemption in any subsequent tax year.
• Consider deferring cancellation of debt events until 2015 to reduce 2014 taxable income.
• A corporation other than a “large” corporation that anticipates a small net operating loss (NOL) this year and taxable income next year, may benefit from accelerating enough income from 2015 to 2014 (or deferring enough 2014 deductions) to create a small amount of taxable income for 2014. This allows the corporation to base its estimated tax payments for 2015 on this small amount of income, rather than 100% of its larger 2015 taxable income.
• Owners of partnership or S corporation interests should consider whether they need to increase their basis in the business so that losses may be deducted in the current year.
These are just some of the steps that can be taken before year-end to save taxes. We will be happy to work with you to customize a plan that works best for your circumstances. We will be sure to provide updates on the expired tax provisions as they become available, so that you can take advantage of any additional tax saving moves in a timely manner.
Accounting for Your SuccessAt Akin, Doherty, Klein & Feuge, we do everything in our power to assist you with your business and
personal accounting, tax and financial needs.
Akin, Doherty, Klein, & Feuge, personally Serving our clients Since 1991.
830.815.1100 n www.adkf.com507 E. Blanco, Suite 101 n Boerne, Texas 78006
8610 North New Braunfels, Suite 101 n San Antonio, Texas 78217672 Ridge Hill Dr., Suite A n New Braunfels, Texas 78130
Sara received her Master of Accountancy Degree from the University of Texas at San Antonio. She moved to San Antonio in January 2009 after receiving her Bachelor’s degree in Finance from the University of Maine. Sara is a member of the AICPA, TSCPA, and local CPA chapter. In her spare time, Sara enjoys cooking, staying active, doing DIY projects around the house, and spending time with her husband, Ian.
BBM
SUMMER BODIES ARE MADE IN WINTER! We offer great monthly memberships to suit your fitness needs as we work to get our bodies ready for the Summer season!
JOIN US TODAY!
2 Weeks of Unlimited Classes for just $45.00!!
830.331.8939
for the Finest in Womens Fitness Apparel!New Client Special:
To schedule your classes online, visitwww.EleganceandLife.com
Shop in Our Barre Lounge
20 Boerne Business Monthly | December 2014
BECOME A MEMBER OF ATHLETIC REPUBLIC BOERNE FITNESS • FAMILY
FELLOWSHIP
DECEMBER 1ST - JANUARY 31ST
NEW MEMBERSGet 2 free 30-minute Personal Training Sessions50% off first month (single membership)Free T-Shirt($125 value)
CURRENT MEMBERS; REFER A FRIEND!For every friend you refer, you’ll receive an entry to win our “gift basket” which includes 1 month FREE Membership.*Applies to single membership valued at $49-$59/mo.
A MEMBERSHIP LIKE NO OTHER!NO CONTRACTS OR SIGN-UP FEES EVERAt Athletic Republic Boerne, we believe a gym
membership is more than just a place to workout;
it’s an environment where you can accomplish your
goals, dream about new ones and receive support
and encouragement along the way. It’s a place that
can help you improve your health and your quality
of life; where you can go to get in shape, relax or just
have fun all in a comfortable, family-friendly environment.
PERKS OF BECOMING ANATHLETIC REPUBLIC MEMBER• A family-friendly atmosphere that is fun & inviting
• Access to a complete line of the latest fitness equipment
• Unlimited access to our high quality small group classes
• Access to our great Personal Trainers
• Invitation to join a Boot Camp with a Purpose
• Ability to become part of our
Comprehensive Wellness Program- RPM
• Loving and caring individuals who meet you where you are
and help you get where you want to be
RICH & JAUHNEA BARKLEY,OWNERS OF ATHLETIC REPUBLIC BOERNE
KEEPING OUR COMMUNITY STRONG
830.816.55131024 North Main St. – Boerne, TX 78006athleticrepublicboerne.com
Welcoming • Energiz ing • Strength • Endurance • Educat ion • Stress
Dedication • Motivation • Freeing • Enlightening • Focused • Necessary
Rew
arding
• Exciting
• Em
po
wering
• Sw
eaty
Co
mm
unit
y •
Fam
ily •
Fri
end
ship
• B
oo
t C
amp
Boerne ISD and its schools receive high marks in a recent report released by the education analysis group Niche.
The Niche report lists all five Boerne ISD elementary schools among the top 10 elemen-tary campuses in the San Antonio metro area. Curington Elementary topped the list of 100 areas schools, followed by Cibolo Creek Elementary, second; Fabra Elementary, third; Fair Oaks Ranch Elementary, fourth; and Kendall Elementary, eighth. Curington is ranked 75th in the report’s survey of the top elementary schools in Texas.
Boerne Middle School South is listed first among the top 100 middle schools in the area. Middle School North is ranked third. In the high school rankings, Champion High School is ranked fourth while Boerne High School is ranked seventh.
The district as a whole was ranked second on a list of top school districts in the metro San Antonio area. Boerne ISD is ranked 12th in the Niche report for the top 100 districts in Texas.
Niche uses a broad range of criteria to develop its rankings. The independent company analyzes statistics along with parent and student responses to surveys in areas covering academics, general district experience, teachers, and student culture and diversity.
“We are very proud of the academic per-formance and the culture of caring on all of our campuses,” said Boerne ISD superintendent David Stelmazewski. “We always have been. Our administrative teams and our teachers work hard day in and day out to do what is best and what is right for the children. When that happens consistently, people take notice. The report find-ings are gratifying and certainly validate what we have believed all along about our teachers and our schools.”
According to Niche’s explanation of its pro-cess, “a high ranking indicates that the district contains great schools with exceptional teachers, sufficient resources, and a diverse set of high-achieving students who rate their experiences very highly.”
BISD SCHOOLS EXCEL IN NEW
REPORT RANKINGS
Apache Rifleworks was started by Paul Duran, who is a Vietnam Vet, and his son Simon Duran who is a former Firefighter/EMT and Tactical Medic, both longtime residents of Kendall County, and lifelong residents of Texas.
Apache Rifleworks builds custom AR platform rifles suited to the specific needs of their customers, as well as specializing in Glock, M&P upgrades, and general gunsmithing. They will also have general retail guns and accessories.
Apache Rifleworks will have a 25,000 sq ft. facil-ity with a 9 lane indoor shooting range, as well as an outdoor shooting range in the future.
They are shooting for completion by the end of
APACHE RIFLEWORKS BREAKS GROUND
spring next year. Apache will be located on IH-10
off of Waring, exit 527 going towards Comfort, TX.
boernebusinessmonthly.com 21
“My child is smart, but is terrifiedof reading in front of the class.”
You’re frustrated, and so is yourchild. Classwork and homework bynow are a daily struggle of tears andyelling. Your child is falling behind,and the school is clueless as to how tosolve the problem.
You know your child is smart, butthere is something holding him back.You have tried tutoring and hours ofhomework, but it seems like nothinghas worked.
So why DO smart kids struggle inschool?
Is it the parents’ fault? The teachers’fault? Is she just being lazy?
The real reason is that for 20% of kidsin school, reading, spelling and
Brain research shows these skillscan significantly improve
Weak underlying learning skills can beidentified using a cognitive skillsassessment. Once the student’scognitive strengths and weaknessesare identified, a specialized program isdeveloped to train those skills.
Learning Foundations: 45 years ofexperience, now in Boerne.
Since 1969, Learning Foundations hashelped struggling kids and teens breakfree from painful and embarrassinglabels. All programs are delivered1-on-1 with an experienced specialist.
Free Consultations can be scheduledby calling (210) 495-2626.
These skills such as sensory processing,memory, auditory processing andphonemic awareness build thefoundation for academic and socialsuccess. A weakness in these skills cancause even the smartest child to struggle.
attention problems such as Dyslexia andADHD are caused by weak underlyinglearning skills.
(210) 495-2626 - Call Now for a Free Consultation - www.learningfoundations.com
B CUTS • COLOR • STYLING725 N. Main Street – Boerne, Texas
The Holiday Season is Here... BEST!
(210) 836-5728 | 725 N. Main Street – Boerne
Appointment booking available online at
barbiesinboerne.com
Massage Therapy Now Available! before after before after
before after
after
22 Boerne Business Monthly | December 2014
E
leon springs (210) 698-8100
Boerne (830) 249-3955
pla
nn
ing
Every small business has that nagging to-do list that just never seems to get done. With 2015 just around the corner, don’t wait until the new year has begun to tackle that ever-growing list of tasks. Think how nice it would feel to start the new year off with a fresh, clean slate! Here are some common small business tasks to consider getting done before January 1st arrives!
REVIEW YOUR MARKETING STRATEGYAre you happy with your current marketing efforts? Do you
even have a marketing plan in place? Now is the time to evaluate if your company’s marketing approach is working or if should be tweaked a bit so you can enter 2015 with a plan in place to get your business the attention it deserves.
CONNECT WITH YOUR CUSTOMERSReach out to your customers and let them know you value their
business and their opinions. Ask them for any feedback they may have concerning your business and take that advice to heart. Your customers will be thankful that you took the time to appreciate them and flattered that you value their opinion.
ENGAGE WITH YOUR EMPLOYEESHappy employees are essential to a successful business.
Consult with your employees on ways to solve problems within your business and ideas they may have on improving certain aspects of the company. Be sure to implement some of their ideas as well. This will make them feel empowered and motivate them to keep up the good work!
TIDY UP THE OFFICEJust about every business can benefit from a good de-clutter-
ing. Get rid of things that don’t work or you no longer need. Your employees and customers will appreciate a more tidy atmosphere and it will feel great to enter the new year with a more productive atmosphere. Consider having your employees clean up their email inboxes and computer files too. While you’re at it, take a look at the exterior of your business as well. Could it use a fresh coat of paint or maybe a little landscaping help? Tidying up both the interior and exterior of your business will help both employees and customers to feel rejuvenated.
REVIEW ALL OF YOUR SYSTEMSMaybe your company’s computer system is in need of an
upgrade? Could the way you manage your company’s finances be improved upon? Consult with experts that can find where your
business is lacking and help you to fix those problems. Bringing bad business habits to the surface and then eliminating them will enable you to lead a more successful business.
SET GOALS FOR THE YEAR AHEADNow is the time to set a vision for the present that will lead
you to the future. Where do you see your business going in 2015? How can you learn from any mistakes made in 2014 and grow from them? Setting goals for the year ahead will act as a roadmap to guide your business in the new year.
Get Your Business on Track for the New Yearby Taylor Davis
BBM
boernebusinessmonthly.com 23
THIS SECTION:celebrate |Tips to Enjoy a Stress-Free Holiday Season
holiday recipes |Hot Chocolate & Eggnog Cookies
art |Mooney Makes Sense:Oil on Copper – The Forgotten Formula
your SPACEat home or at work.. . love the space you’re in!
24 Boerne Business Monthly | December 2014
BALCONES CREEKHomes from the $250s
In the San Antonio division, prices, plans and specifications are subject to change without notice. Map is an artist’s conception for general information purposes only and is not to scale. Photographs are for illustrative purposes only. Information believed to be accurate but not warranted. See sales counselor for details. © 2014 RH of Texas Limited Partnership.
RS1271
Community Features:• Boerne Independent School District• No city taxes• Gas community• Gated community• Wooded homesites• 1/2 to 3/4-acre homesites
87
87
10
46
46
Johns Rd.
Fair Oaks Blvd.
FrederickCreek
Main St.
Balcones Creek
Map not drawn to scale.
For more information contact Mark Guerra or Cesar Rivera at 830-981-5301.
Visit ryland.com for more information.
THE WOODS OF FREDERICK CREEKHomes from the $270s
Community Features:• Large wooded homesites • 3-car garage designs available • Hill Country experience offering city conveniences• Boerne 180
For more information contact Stephanie Keene at 210-415-8668.
Limited Homesites
Remain!
boernebusinessmonthly.com 25
Ranch Guide LLC is a market-ing based company dedicated to real estate professionals, property owners, and businesses involved in the farm and ranch community. We provide high end marketing to real estate professionals and business owners.
• Farm and Ranch Real Estate Promotion• Business Advertisements
“Your guide to everything farm and ranch.”Visit us at TheRanchGuide.com for more information!
(210) 364-6184
| celebrate
The holiday season is a wonderful and joyous time of the year, however it can also be filled with a lot of pressure. Pressure to buy the perfect gifts, host the most festive parties and to make your home look like a winter wonderland straight out of a magazine! Well have no fear, these simple tips will take your holiday season from stressful to stress-less.
DECORATEEvery inch of your home does not need to be decorated for the holidays. In fact, too many Christmas decorations can create visual overload. Instead, try choosing one focal point in each of your main rooms and work from there. Another great tip is to choose a central theme that will run throughout the house. This will help to keep you focused as well as create a cohesive feel.
Choose a specific time to set aside to decorate as well. Turn on the Christmas music, light some holiday scented candles and make a nice cup of hot cocoa. Really get into and enjoy the process of decorating for the holidays and it will go so much faster and easier than trying to do a little at a time.
HOSTRather than creating more work for yourself with several smaller holiday gatherings, host one large open house. These can be kept simple with appetizers and finger foods or kick it up a notch with a buffet-style meal. Whatever you decide, make sure not to stress over the food. If you opt to serve a meal, choose a dish you cook really well and base everything else around that.
SHOPNo time to tackle the crowds that come with holiday shopping? Shopping online often offers a much more relaxed shopping experience and the best part is that you can go online when it’s best for your schedule, think late at night or early in the morning!
For those of you who would still rather be able to touch and feel the items you are purchasing, consider looking online before you head to the stores. Pre-shopping in this manner can at least help you locate your items and save you the hassle of having to waste time going to too many stores.
TEnjoy Less Stress, More Fun This Holiday Seasonby Taylor Davis
BBM
26 Boerne Business Monthly | December 2014
VISIT US AT WWW.KCAC.NET
Ashlee Pfeiffer, Manager
“Where experience and service make the difference”
830.816.2131 | 830.249.3341 - Fax103 N. Saunders • Boerne, Texas 78006
(across from the courthouse)
From its beginning in 1916, Kendall County Abstract Company has been Kendall County’s locally owned and operated title company. Over the last 97 years, we’ve earned the trust of real estate professionals because we’re experi-enced, we’re professional, and we care about our customers.
• Stewart Title Guaranty Company• Fidelity National Title• First American Title Insurance• Alamo Title Insurance
Agent for:
Serving our Friends and Neighbors of the Hill Country Since 1916
Offering Services in Accounting and Tax for Small Business, Individuals, and Non-Profits
[email protected] | www.mlcoxcpa.com830.995.5810
DECEMBER 11GREATER BOERNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RIBBON CUTTING FOR PAYCHEX 11:30am to 12:00pm | 121 S. Main St. Boerne
GREATER BOERNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE RIBBON CUTTING FOR URBAN DEFENSE TRAINING 1:30pm to 2:00pm | 635 Hwy 46 E. Ste 101 A – Boerne
GREATER BOERNE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE BUSINESS AFTER HOURS MIXER SPONSORED BY PANIOLO RANCH 5:00pm to 7:00pm | 1510 FM 473 – Boerne
DECEMBER 13SECOND SATURDAY ART & WINE 5:00pm to 8:00pm | Galleries in BoerneThe 2nd Saturday participants go all out with complimentary beverages and a variety of hors d’oeuvres along with fantastic art!
DECEMBER 13-14BOERNE MARKET DAYS 10:00am to 5:00pm | Main Plaza – BoerneMain Plaza comes alive with great shopping in an outdoor setting.
DECEMBER 14BOERNE CONCERT BAND CHRISTMAS CONCERT 4:00pm to 6:00pm | Boerne High School Auditorium1 Greyhound Lane – BoerneA variety of your favorite tunes!
DECEMBER 16CITY COUNCIL MEETING6:00pm to 8:00pm | City Council Chambers124 Old San Antonio Road – Boerne
DECEMBER 20-21COWBOY CHRISTMAS AT ENCHANTED SPRINGS RANCH 10:00am to 5:00pm | 242 State Highway 46 W. – BoerneExperience the Christmas Season “Old West” Style!Visit enchantedspringsranch.com for more info.
DECEMBER 22KENDALL COUNTY COMMISSIONERS COURT 9:00am to 11:00am | Kendall County Courthouse201 E. San Antonio Ave. – Boerne
DECEMBER 25CHRISTMAS DAY!
DECEMBER 2014 CALENDAR OF EVENTS | cont’d
Do You Have an Upcoming Event You Would Like Us to Include in
Next Month’s Calendar?Email Us at
BBM
boernebusinessmonthly.com 27
Your Comfort SpecialistsLicense #: TACLA26171E
830-816-1879
• Prompt & Courteous Service• Best Quality Products• Trained Professionals• Job Done Right the First Time
• Full One Year Labor Warranty• 24 Hour Emergency Service Available• No Gimmicks
www.kendallcountyair.com
Take Your Best Shot...
CALL KENDALL COUNTY AIR FOR ALL YOUR HEATING
AND AIR CONDITIONING NEEDS.
Happy Holidays and a Prosperous New Year!
wishes you
Call Mark Burns today at 830-446-1506 for a free consulatation.
Remodel – Renovate – RefreshBoerne, Texas
Reach the Broker Day or Night!Office: 830-331-2666
Cell: 210-535-1355103 E. Kronkosky – Boerne, Tx 78006
CALL ED TODAY!Ed Trevino, Broker
HomeSweetHomeBoerne.com
EVERYTHING FROM HOME STAGING, LICENSED AND INSURED CONTRACTORS, HANDYMAN SERVICES AND
PROFESSIONAL LANDSCAPERS!
20+ YEARS EXPERIENCE AND AN OFFICE IN THE HEART OF BOERNE.
Let Us Get Your Property SOLD!
MAIL YOUR LETTERS TO SANTA AT HOME SWEET HOME BOERNE...
Professional Real Estate Services and Property Management
HEY KIDS!
Every Letter Gets A Response!!
28 Boerne Business Monthly | December 2014
&Phillip Bell
Assoc., llc210.415.8483 [email protected]
REALTOR®, GREEN/ConsultantPHILLIP BELL
phillipbell.net• ENERGY EFFICIENT • WATER CONSERVATION
OTHER UNLiSTED COMMERCiAL PROPERTiES AVAiLABLE!
COMING SOON! INDUSTRIAL/TECHNOLOGY/BUSINESS PARK: This 28.4 acre property is available for development. Recently annexed with Industrial zoning (I) pending, this property is ready for a professional developer to work with the City of Boerne for a most-needed industrial park. City water available. City sewer service in progress. Approx. 1400 feet of frontage on Shooting Club Road with additional access on Hwy 87 (Main Street). The property is under Ag-Exemption. 39 horse stalls, office and apartment to be removed. Contact listing agent for full details.
34± ACRES: This property at 7 Becker Ln is offered for potential development. Located behind Ingram Readymix, with50 ft. easement fronting on IH-10 access road. There are two family homes and various out-buildings on the property with two wells and three septic systems. The 34+/- acres is not in the City limits but is in the ETJ. Ideal for light, industrial development. Electricity is available from Bandera Elect. Co-Op. Water and sewer service available from Kendall Utility. Survey, plat and aerials are available. Call for details. $2.00/Sq. Ft.
LANDfor
SALEINDUSTRIAL
ZONE
in the new
RARE OPPORTUNITY – HISTORIC, CIRCA 1800 “JAMES HOUSE” zoned B-1 Of-fice/Commercial. Located just off Main St. on .4298 ac. with room for expansion. Registered with the Texas Historical Commission. Updated electrical and A/C. Interior can be updated for commercial offices. Two story with side entrance. Original long-leaf pine floors. Garage with storage room. This is one of the few historical buildings remaining in Boerne. Great investment! $399,000
Price Reduced!
boernebusinessmonthly.com 29
holiday recipes |
A Great Big Merry ChristmasTo all our friends, family, and
delightful clients. Best wishes for the holidays.
God Bless!
Renee & Jim Campbell(210) 542-0148 | (210) 838-1896
Steven Karam(210) 414-0105
Naomi Weckesser(830) 688-0282
Kathy & Wiley Cloud, Brokers(210) 710-6601 | (830) 755-8693
Real Estate Office: (830) 755-8693
Tiffany Joslin(210) 394-4399
The Christmas season is here and it’s time to start making and sharing those Christmas cookies! This year, spice up your holiday cookies by turning everyone’s favorite holiday drinks, hot chocolate and eggnog, into delicious cookies that are sure to be the hit of your holiday parties!!
HOT CHOCOLATE COOKIESIngredients1 stick unsalted butter1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder12 oz. semisweet chocolate 7.5 ounces of semisweet chocolate (bars)1 1/2 cups flour1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder1/4 teaspoon salt1 1/4 cups light brown sugar3 eggs1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extractlarge marshmallowsInstructions• Preheat oven to 325°F.• In a medium saucepan, melt together butter and 12 oz. of chocolate. Stir frequently over medium heat until smooth and let cool for 15 minutes.• Whisk together flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder and salt in a medium bowl.• Using an electric mixer, combine brown sugar, eggs and vanilla extract.• Beat on low speed until smooth for approxi-mately two minutes. Mix in the cooled choco-late mixture just until blended. Add the flour mixture in two batches, mixing on low speed until just combined. • Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour.• Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop the dough and roll between your palms to form one-inch balls. Arrange about 16 balls, two inches apart on each cookie sheet, flattening slightly. Bake until the tops of the cookies crack, about 12 minutes.• Meanwhile, cut 7.5 ounces of semisweet chocolate (bars) into one-inch squares. Snip eight large marshmallows in half and stick 1 square of chocolate onto each of the cut sides.Remove the cookie sheets from the oven; gently press a marshmallow half, chocolate side down,
into each cookie. Bake until the marshmallows are just softened, about 4 minutes. Allow cookies to cool for 5 minutes; grate the remaining chocolate over the hot cookies.
EGGNOG COOKIES Ingredients2 1/4 cups flour1/2 cup eggnog 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 1/4 cups sugar 3/4 cup butter, slightly softened 1 teaspoon vanilla 2 egg yolks Eggnog Icing 1 1/4 cup powdered sugar 3 tablespoons eggnog ground nutmeg Instructions• Preheat oven to 350°F. Whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg in medium bowl. Set aside. • In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar together. Add egg yolks and vanilla to the mixture and beat until smooth. Add egg-nog and mix on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Slowly add flour mixture into the eggnog mixture and stir until combined. Chill dough for 20 minutes. • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and drop spoonfuls of dough onto the cookie sheet. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until bottoms are lightly browned. Remove cookies from pan and allow to cool.• For icing, whisk powdered sugar and eggnog together. Add more sugar or eggnog, depending on the consistency you prefer. • Drizzle icing on cooled cookies and sprinkle with nutmeg. Store in a air tight container in the refrigerator.
Hot Chocolate & Eggnog Cookies
BBM
30 Boerne Business Monthly | December 2014
art |
boernebusinessmonthly.com 31 Experience • Skill • Dedication
222 S. Main | Boerne, Texas
830.249.7979www.hillcountryproperties.net
301 SPANISH PASS - 59.87+/- ACRES Beautiful 59 acre ranch just minutes from Boerne! Bring your horses and come enjoy the privacy and breath taking views from this 5 bedroom 2 bath ranch style home. The large covered front porch allows you to take in the beautiful Hill County scenery. Flagstone patio for those nights of entertaining. 2 car carport with large attached storage/workshop area. The property has a stock pond towards the back of the property. Property is currently under Ag Wildlife exemption.
MLS#1087540 | $725,000Contact Sara Baird (210) 317-9996
103 COTERIE PLACE – TAPATIO SPRINGSMove in Ready! Come to Tapatio Springs and enjoy the low maintenance style living in this immaculate garden home. 2 bedrooms plus an office with a gor-geous courtyard entry. Within the last year owner has updated with ceramic tile throughout and interior painting. Great trellis covered patio with built-in outdoor grill. Patio is the perfect place to watch the deer! There are beautiful views of the greenbelt area and cliff that outline the wet weather creek. This is a much sought after location in Tapatio.
MLS#1087643 | $315,000Contact Sara Baird (210) 317-9996
130 N. PLANT - .46+/- ACRE IN BOERNEIf you are looking for a “charming & historical”home in Boerne, then this is it! Beautiful hardwood floors, open floor plan w/lots of windows and light. Large kitchen with plenty of counter space and room to do all that cooking! Master suite w/large walk in closet and spacious bath. French doors lead out to patio area, perfect for relaxing. Front bedroom has its own bath and large walk in closet as well as oak floors. .46+/- ac lot within walking distance to elem. school and Main St.
MLS#188105 | $242,000Contact Sara Baird (210) 317-9996
329 HAMPTON COVE - THE VILLAS AT HAMPTON PLACEEntire interior has been freshly painted, with new carpet as well. Best location in Hampton Place. Backs to greenbelt, gazebo for entertaining in the backyard. Top of the line light fixtures & ceramic tile showers. 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, study and lots of storage. All window treatments stay with designer rods. Ceiling fans, Amana side by side refrigerator, and laundry upstairs convenient to bedrooms.
MLS#1087396 | $197,500Contact Carol Schultz (210) 268-3691