The Boerne Fire Department reported the boy, identified as Jaylen Robinson, was found at 9:04 a.m. Monday, June 29, in 15 feet of water about 20 feet from the shore. 

His name has not been released. 

Fire Chief Manny Casarez told reporters the young teen, on a trip to the popular lake Sunday, June 28, with the family of an 11-year-old friend, was seen struggling to swim and didn’t return to the shore. 

“One of the children, an 11-year-old, was able to get back to safety. The other one was not,” Casarez said. 

Boerne first responders rolled when the call came in at 6:21 p.m.  

Police arrived first, Casarez said, and began gathering information from witnesses. 

Divers with the Fire Department arrived shortly after, launched a boat and began searching, the chief said. 

At 9:15 p.m., officials made the call to suspend the search until Monday morning. 

“We reassembled at 7 a.m. and quickly got crews back in the water,” Casarez said, adding the child was pulled from the lake about two hours later.   

The boy’s family arrived early Monday to be on hand while the search continued. 

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of this young child,” Casarez said. 

This is the second death at the lake in the past five weeks. Du Long, 80, of San Antonio, perished May 24 during a Memorial Day weekend outing. 

At the age of 83, he survived prostate cancer over 20 years ago, only to succumb to pancreatic cancer now. He fought hard to stay with us, as his body gave way.

His focus was still to do what he could to help his wife of 61 years, the love of his life. Having met and sweeping each other off each other’s feet in Marcedus’ native Newfoundland, Canada. They went on many adventures together, seeing many places around the world.

He was very accomplished, serving in the Airfare as a Dental Lab Technician/Trainer (20 years), Graduating from Wayland Baptist College, Mason, founding Castle Dental Laboratory in 1978, Professor UT Health Science Dental Lab School 1994-98, CDT examiner for the National Board of Certification, member British Sporting Club. He took pride in the profession and in sharing his knowledge and experience. He enjoyed and excelled in bowling often being the high average holder in any league he participated in. Golf was another past time, that he loved participating in.

He will be greatly missed.

— PAID OBITUARY —

Sister Mary Agnes Zinni, OSB, age 100, passed peacefully at St.

Scholastica Monastery in Boerne, Texas, with her Benedictine Sisters and her two nieces, Christine and Rose, by her side.

Sr. Mary Agnes was born on Sept. 27, 1925, in Batavia, New York to a family with four children. She grew up in a very loving Italian immigrant family environment, and her parents’ deep faith planted the seeds that would later open her to God’s call to religious community life in her church.

Sr. Mary Agnes took her first vows as a Franciscan Sister in Paterson, New Jersey in 1945, and after training, she was sent to work at Holy Cross Hospital in Austin, Texas. While there, she served as Chief Medical Technologist and subsequently Hospital Administrator.

Sr. Mary Agnes received her BS in Chemistry/ Biology from St. Joseph College in West Hartford, Connecticut and her MEd in Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of Texas at Austin.

After working in the Austin Diocese and opening special projects for the poor in Austin, Waco, and San Antonio, she was drawn to the Boerne Benedictine Community and joined them in 1987.

She said, “I realized God was gracing me with a deep love for Benedictine Monastic Spirituality. I was one in spirit with the Community’s prayer life and commitment to justice and peace.”

Sr. Mary Agnes has served in many different positions and ministries with the Benedictine Sisters. Within Community she has served on the Sisters Council and as Monastery Coordinator, Sub-Prioress, Prioress, President of the Benedictine Ministries Corporation Board, and Formation Director.

In Community ministries she served as Director of the Omega Retreat Center, Coordinator of Spirituality Programs and Spiritual Director.

Sr. Mary Agnes was highly involved with St. Peter Upon the Water (the San Antonio Archdiocese Spiritual Direction Formation Program) for three years and on the Formation Team for six years. She was a member of the Planning and Implementation Committee of the three-year Christian Mysticism program co-sponsored by the Oblate School of Theology and members of the Contemplative Outreach San Antonio Leadership Team. She also served as Facilitator of the Omega Centering Prayer Group and as a member of the Contemplative Outreach San Antonio Leadership Team. Sr. Mary Agnes is preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Grace Zinni; her sister, Nicholette Rinaldo; Carrie Zinni; her brother, Nicholas Zinni, and his wife, Regina; and her niece, Theresa Harrison.

She is survived by Dr. Christine Zinni (niece); Frank Zinni (nephew), his wife, Barbara, and their daughter, Agnes; Rose Steele (niece), her husband, Alan, their daughter, Jessica, and son, Brian; Thomas Rinaldo (nephew), his wife, Kim, their son, David, and their daughters, Cheryl, Crystal, and Christina; and numerous great-nieces and nephews.

Services for Sr. Mary Agnes were held June 24, 2026, at St. Scholastica Monastery.

— PAID OBITUARY —

Offered for the first-time ever, join artist Pauly Tamez for a three-hour immersive workshop, “Radiant Horizon: Capturing Light Over Water,” from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 11.

Explore the drama of sky and sea in the class at The Classroom at The AgriCultural Museum and Arts Center, 102 City Park Road, Boerne. Refer to and register today at www. hccarts.org. For details, 210-269-8349.

From the first brushstroke to the final signature, you will learn how to capture the drama of sky and sea in oil. This session is designed for artists of all levels, whether you are discovering oils for the first time or refining your technique.

Tamez divides the class into four sessions:

• 10-10:30 a.m.: Color foundations. Explore warm and cool contrasts, mixing sunset hues and ocean tones.

• 10:30-11:30 a.m.: Sky composition. Build expressive clouds and radiant light using blending and glazing.

• 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.: Water reflections. Create shimmering reflections and subtle wave textures with palette-knife accents.

• 12:30 to 1 p.m.: Finishing touches. Refine edges, balance color harmony and sign your completed seascape.

What you will learn: • Atmospheric perspective to give depth to your horizon.

• Layering techniques for luminous skies and water.

• Brush and knife control to achieve expressive texture.

• Color storytelling: how light and hue evoke serenity and movement.

Materials are provided with payment of class fee; class size limited. You will leave with a finished 16-by-20-inch oil painting ready to frame, and the confidence to recreate the sea’s ever-changing beauty.

Participants will learn to layer color, build atmosphere and express movement through confident brushwork. From the first wash to the final glow, you will create your own luminous seascape that celebrates the power of light and reflection.

Art AfterHours: Discharge Dyeing

For those of you who love working with fabric, take a look at the upcoming “Discharge Dyeing” applied arts class, set for 7-9 p.m. June 30, with Art After-Hours artist/teacher Kelly Leith, in The Classroom at The AgriCultural Museum, 102 City Park Road.

In this intriguing class, we will pull the dye from colored fabric. Through the chemical reaction process, we will create patterns and imagery, removing and replacing color. Learn how dye colors are made by reversing the procedure.

Explore a variety of tools such as stamps, stencils, and brushes to remove color and add color back with permanent textile paints. All materials provided, class size limited. Refer to and register today at www. hccarts.org. For details, call Paula at 210-269-8349.

Hill Country Council for the Arts, (HCCArts), is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organization. Our mission is to enhance community awareness, develop opportunities for involvement, encourage individual and corporate financial support, and continue the growth of the Arts within the nineteen counties of Hill Country.

Join. Donate. Volunteer. Like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram. Refer to our website often, where you can sign up for our newsletter, and register for classes, www.hccarts.org.

As the Primary Runoff and Texas Republican Party State Convention conclude, the message is straightforward: the time for internal competition has passed. Now, we unite behind our nominees and direct every ounce of energy toward victory in November.

Kendall County voters settled very competitive races. At the end of the day, the process worked as it should. I congratulate the nominees who earned the right to carry our banner and thank every candidate who stepped up. Their engagement strengthens our party.

The state convention theme, “Strong Roots, Bold Future,” captured where we stand. We reaffirmed the conservative principles that define us: secure borders, a strong economy, parental rights in education, election integrity, and individual liberty. Spirited debate during primaries and conventions is healthy. However, lingering division afterward is not.

As your Kendall County Republican Party Chairman, my job is to turn unity into results. That means supporting every Republican nominee, growing our grassroots through registration and turnout, and inviting every conservative in our community to get involved. We don’t need perfect agreement on every primary preference. We need shared commitment to winning in November and delivering for Kendall County families.

Our base includes strong communities of faith and Second Amendment advocates whose full participation can be decisive. When Evangelicals, 2A supporters, and all conservatives turn out in stronger numbers, real competition for the Republican Party largely disappears.

The bigger challenge isn’t the other side; it’s fighting voter apathy and making sure every eligible voter who shares our values actually casts a ballot in the November general election.

That is the work in front of us now. To everyone who volunteered, donated, or voted this spring, thank you. Now I’m asking you to step up again. Talk to your neighbors. Host a meet-and-greet or put up a yard sign this fall. Volunteer your time or skills. These small actions compound quickly when we all move in the same direction.

If you believe in the values that make Texas work — faith, freedom, opportunity, and personal responsibility — there’s a place for you here. Contact me directly at KCRPChair@protonmail.com to get involved. Help us energize faith communities, gun clubs, civic groups, and every corner of Kendall County.

November is closer than you think. With purposeful unity and stronger turnout from our core supporters, Kendall County Republicans will deliver.

Let’s get to work — together.

Traften Werenskjold is chairman of the Kendall County Republican Party

Margaret had saved diligently for decades. Every paycheck, a portion went toward her retirement account. Then, the day finally came: she retired. Suddenly, the hardest part wasn’t the saving. It was learning to spend.

If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many retirees find the shift from building savings to living off them emotionally difficult, even when they’ve planned carefully. Here are five smart strategies that can help you feel more confident about what’s ahead.

Give yourself permission to spend conservatively. Your retirement plan likely assumes a certain annual spending amount, with increases each year to account for inflation. All else being equal, the lower those initial withdrawals, the longer your money will last. A financial advisor can help you set up portfolio withdrawals personalized to your goals and situation. Feel free to give yourself permission to spend those amounts, knowing there’s intention behind them.

For many retirees, the challenge isn’t math — it’s mindset. After years of being rewarded for saving, spending can feel like doing something wrong. It can help to reframe withdrawals as a paycheck you’ve already earned. For example, using your monthly distribution to cover travel, hobbies or time with family isn’t indulgent; it’s the purpose of the plan you built. Connecting spending to your values can make it feel more natural and sustainable.

Do be sure to to review your spending regularly and don’t forget to set aside funds for annual expenses like taxes and insurance.

Keep some cash on hand. A general rule of thumb for retirees is to keep about 12 months’ worth of withdrawals in a separate account for spending and another three to five years’ worth in short-term, fixed-income investments. This cushion can allow your stock investments time to recover from a market downturn, reducing the need to sell investments when markets are down. That said, holding too much cash carries its own risk, as your portfolio may not grow fast enough to keep pace with inflation. So, while some cash is good, you’ll also want to remain invested in assets with more growth potential to help your portfolio last through retirement.

Review regularly. Retirement can last 25 years or more, and even the best-laid plans need updating along the way. Review your financial strategy at least once a year or after any major life change.

Stay flexible. Even small adjustments to your spending can have a big impact on how long your money lasts. Retirees who hold off on spending increases in years when their portfolio declines are often able to stretch their savings further than those who increase withdrawals each year for inflation regardless of market performance.

Making the switch from saving to spending takes both careful planning and a genuine shift in mindset. A financial advisor can help you build out an effective approach to switch from saving to spending, and work with you so you can fully enjoy the retirement you worked so hard to reach.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jonesfinancial adviser.

Edward Jones, Member SIPC

Editor, Thank you so much to you and your team for your recent coverage of Democratic events. I understand that the Star has received some level of pushback from local Republicans for that coverage.

It is the job of journalists to provide fair and balanced coverage to the readers. It is understandable that there may be more coverage of conservative views and events on the front page of the Star — that is the majority here in Boerne, of course.

But it also follows that there can — and should — be coverage of left-leaning perspectives and happenings as well, even in a conservative county. Thank you for including such events and voices in your coverage.

Democrats here in Boerne and Kendall County are growing in numbers. We will continue to work hard to make our voices heard and appreciate the acknowledgement of our presence in our community.

I, for one, hope to live in and build a Boerne where neighbors can respect and appreciate each other’s diverse views and beliefs without a need to silence them.

— Aimee Sackrider Boerne resident

For example, a recent viewpoint was published discussing mail-in voting just being another form of absentee voting. Promoting it as a good thing to increase voter turnout?

Nonchalant voters just miss out with their right to vote. Attitude change, not mail-in voting, is the answer to low voter turnout. Self-responsibility, a conservative value, is the answer.

The article used a left-leaning organization’s scoring to show how Texas negatively compares to other states regarding overall voting ease. All the states scoring higher and being compared to Texas do not have any photo ID requirements.

Texas already has absentee voting, so the only reason for mail-in voting is to cheat. This is an example of why conservatives want less propaganda from the left; it’s antithetical to Kendall County conservative values.

People move to this county because it reflects conservative America or to take advantage of our safe community, conservatism has created.

— Karl Strong Boerne resident

America is a stronger country with two healthy political parties, and balanced reporting is essential in those efforts.

I am saddened that my Republican neighbors have forgotten this fact and instead accuse the Boerne Star of “leaning left” which is not true and not helpful to our community.

— Liza Holmes Boerne resident

JUNE 17

2:17 a.m., 800 block of Johns Road – A caller reported a vehicle with its hazard lights on, but unoccupied.

9:38 a.m., 200 block of Cibolo Branch – A citizen filed a vandalism report.

3:49 p.m., 100 block of Crow Cove – A caller reported his brother verbally and physically assaulted him. Law enforcement came to the location.

6:09 p.m., 1000 block of N. Main Street – A caller reported her vehicle was hit and damage was done to her front headlight.

JUNE 18

9:39 a.m., 100 block of Menger Springs – A caller reported someone was hiding in the bathroom at the emergency room.

2:29 p.m., on River Road/Charger Boulevard – Four males were detained following a traffic stop.

6:48 p.m., 400 block of W. Bandera Road – A caller reported seeing two males smoking marijuana in a vehicle.

8:01 p.m., 300 block of Menger Springs – A caller reported a male driving up and down the road, yelling at people.

9:18 p.m., 100 block of Clarendon – A caller reported smelling a gas leak in the area. Boerne F.D. responded to the scene and a small gas leak was found.

JUNE 19

4:48 a.m., 100 block of Hampton Bend – A caller reported an unknown male walked up to her front door. Law enforcement found the male came to the location by accident.

1:30 p.m., 200 block of Horse Hill – A caller reported receiving a call from someone with the sheriff’s office who had a warrant for the caller.

6:03 p.m., 100 block of City Lake – Two people were detained and read their rights. One was released to his parent.

6:11 p.m., 100 block of City Lake – A caller reported a group of juveniles on the side of the lake vaping and drinking alcohol.

JUNE 20 5:20 a.m., mile marker 542, W. I-10 – A caller reported seeing a motorcycle on its side near a concrete wall. The caller did not see anyone nearby.

6:07 p.m., 100 block of Telford – A caller reported his neighbors were smoking weed “all the time.”

9:19 p.m., mile marker 533, E. I-10 – A caller reported a vehicle, swerving all over the road, that almost crashed. The caller was concerned the driver was having a medical episode.

JUNE 21

9:51 a.m., 1300 block of S. Main Street – A caller reported she suspected card skimmers on one of the gas pumps. She said she got gas on Friday and now had fraudulent charges on her account.

10:44 a.m., 300 block of Winding Woods – A caller reported fraudulent charges of over $1,000 on her bank account.

3:36 p.m., 100 block of Calk Lane – A caller reported a woman for indecent exposure.

7:01 p.m., 1300 block of S. Main Street – An employee reported someone attempted to steal about $8,000 worth of merchandise from the location.

JUNE 17

6:34 a.m., on Staudt Street – A caller reported receiving a suspicious phone call from someone posing as a sheriff’s deputy.

1:35 p.m., on Connally Way – A caller reported his neighbor was trespassing on his property. The caller said the neighbor and him were constantly arguing.

4:23 p.m., 100 block of Ranch Drive – A caller reported someone shooting a “massive amount” in the recent weeks.

4:27 p.m., 200 block of Buntline Drive – A caller reported seeing a male standing across the street who then ran into the woods when he noticed the caller.

11:50 p.m., 600 block of Deep Hollow Drive – A caller reported the smell of an electrical fire. Boerne F.D. and Bergheim V.FD. responded to the residence.

JUNE 18

12:04 a.m., 200 block of Sixth Street – A caller reported a family kept coming up the street and began yelling. Law enforcement came to the location and a male was detained.

6:26 a.m., 200 block of S. FM 3351 – A caller reported two donkeys that kept coming to the edge of the road... “to get to the other side.”

7:15 a.m., 100 block of Timber Mountain Drive – A caller reported hearing two rounds from a high caliber firearm. The caller said he was concerned about poaching in the area.

7:52 a.m., 300 block of W. Highway 46 – A caller reported a vehicle passing the caller in a no-passing zone. The caller said the driver threw something at the caller’s vehicle.

JUNE 19

5:14 a.m., 10000 block of Johns Road – A caller reported a vehicle hit a large rock. The driver was still in the vehicle but was not trapped. EMS was contacted but no injuries were reported.

5:21 a.m., on N. Highway 87 – A caller reported a rattlesnake in the gas station. Animal control was contacted. An employee said she thought the snake escaped during the search for it.

7:42 a.m., 2800 block of Clubs – A caller reported a trapped raccoon on his property.

9:17 a.m., 100 block of Meadow Lane – A caller reported a stolen machine they were tracking.

8:14 p.m., 28000 block of Leslie Pfeiffer – A caller reported a party at the location that was supposed to have underage drinking and drugs. Law enforcement went to the location; multiple individuals were detained.

JUNE 20

6:43 a.m., mile marker 533, W. I-10 – A caller reported an 18-wheeler with the rear tires on fire. Both lanes of the interstate were shut down while the fire was extinguished.

8:10 a.m., 100 block of Deer Road – A caller reported a trapped raccoon.

10:35 a.m., 200 block of Wengenroth Road – A caller was concerned about some footprints he found in his yard that were not there the other day. The caller noted some additional concerns about suspicious activity happening on his property.

4:13 p.m., 40 block of N. Highway 87 – A two-vehicle collision was reported. Both vehicles’ airbags were deployed. One of the drivers reported no injuries; however, the other vehicle reported two occupants were injured.

JUNE 21

10:22 a.m., 100 block of Chaparral Hill Drive – A caller was concerned about hearing gunfire in the area due to the proximity of other buildings.

2:47 p.m., 100 block of Thunder Valley Road – A caller reported hearing gunshots in the area. The caller was concerned the bullets were passing by her vehicle.

8:30 p.m., 400 block of Highway 87 – A caller reported a reckless driver who was unable to maintain lanes and went into the grass multiple times.

FOR COMPLETE POLICE REPORT LISTING, GO TO: BOERNESTAR.COM

In 2025, 169 heat-related incidents were reported across Texas’s state parks and six of them involved pets.

Although we are approaching peak heat season, there are steps that reduce the risk of heat-related illness. Here are the top seven hacks:

Hydrate – For every hour you spend in the heat, drink 16 ounces of water. While participating in strenuous activities, such as hiking, increase your intake to 32 ounces, and don’t forget about your four-legged friends.

Wear SPF – Apply sunscreen liberally and frequently. It’s best practice to reapply every couple of hours and after swimming and sweating.

Dress smart – Light, loose-fitting, breathable clothing; a hat and wet bandana keep you cool in the sun. For pets, cooler times of day prevent blistering on the paws and booties shield them from the hot ground. A quick test is to touch the ground with the back of your hand. If you cannot hold it for five seconds, the surface is too hot for your pets’ paws.

Stay salty – Food keeps energy up and replaces salt lost while sweating. Snacks like jerky, granola, trail mix, tuna and dried fruit are great ways to nourish your body while on the trail.

Bring a buddy – Two brains are better than one. Utilize the buddy system by having someone with you on the trail, allowing you to look after each other in hot conditions.

The event was held in May in Dallas and included financial advisors from both the U.S. and Canada.

“This is a great honor to be recognized for the success of my practice and the experience my team and I deliver to our clients,” Clark said. “The opportunity to collaborate with the leaders of the firm and with other successful Edward Jones financial advisors in North America is an incredible resource for us to continue providing value for our clients.”

The Momentum conference recognizes high-achieving financial advisors who have embraced the momentum it takes to build and sustain a successful practice through leadership, service, advice and guidance. Attendees will be immersed in learning opportunities and a collaborative environment designed to propel them to even greater heights.

To determine the list of attendees, criteria was developed to recognize those that are increasing their impact through deeper client relationships while sustainably growing their practice over the past three years. In keeping with the firm’s culture and spirit of partnership, there was not a set number of attendees for the conference. Instead, every financial advisor who met the criteria qualified to attend, thereby keeping the focus on operational and service quality.

Clark serves as a financial adviser with Edward Jones, a firm that has helped families and businesses pursue their financial goals since 1922. With more than 15 years in the financial services industry, Clark brings extensive experience and a personalized approach to helping clients plan for retirement, manage wealth, and build lasting legacies.

He joined Edward Jones in 2022, taking over a Boerne office and continuing its traditional of trusted, relationship-based service.

At the heart of Clark’s practice is a commitment to putting clients first. Alongside his dedicated team, Lori Ryholt and Jaisy Pfeifer, he works closely with families and business owners to create tailored financial strategies and provide ongoing guidance.

“Our clients are like family,” Caleb shares, emphasizing the importance of trust and long-term relationships.

Outside the office, Clark is deeply involved in the Boerne community through Rotary and several local nonprofit organizations. He and his wife, Sacha, enjoy traveling and exploring new cultures, and he lives by the motto, “Service above self.”

KERRVILLE — Nearly one year after the devastating July 4 floods, the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country announced today that 130 households have returned to permanent housing, while 98 additional households are actively progressing toward permanent housing solutions.

In total, 228 flood-affected households are either home or moving through an established pathway toward permanent recovery.

The milestone reflects significant progress in one of the largest housing recovery efforts ever undertaken in the Texas Hill Country and demonstrates the impact of coordinated investments made through the Community Foundation’s Kerr County Flood Relief Fund.

“Recovery is built around people, not programs,” Austin Dickson, CEO of the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country, said. “Every family affected by the flood faced different challenges and needed different solutions. Today, the majority of displaced households are either back home or actively working toward a permanent housing solution because this community came together to create multiple pathways home.

“While recovery is not finished, this milestone demonstrates the progress that is possible when survivors are supported with the resources, flexibility and partnerships they need to move forward,” Dickson said.

Housing recovery has been a central focus of the Foundation’s long-term recovery strategy, with more than $50 million committed to helping flood survivors return home. Recovery programs have supported 184 households and 401 individuals through temporary housing assistance, assisted 200 families through unmet needs programs and provided property tax relief to 108 flood-affected households.

The effort has been guided by 32 disaster case managers helping survivors navigate resources and identify the best path forward.

“A home provides more than shelter. It provides stability, security and a foundation for recovery,” Mary Campana, executive director of Habitat for Humanity Kerr County, said. “The progress we are celebrating today reflects the resilience of flood survivors and the power of partnerships across our community. While recovery is not finished, more families are returning home and taking important steps toward rebuilding their lives.”

The Community Foundation launched the Kerr County Flood Relief Fund on July 4, 2025, following catastrophic flooding across Kerr County and the Hill Country.

Since then, the fund has raised more than $150 million and distributed $82 million to support recovery efforts across the region. The Foundation continues working with nonprofit, government and community partners to help flood survivors rebuild and recover.

The Tapatio Springs Men’s Golf Association, in conjunction with the Tapatio Springs Ladies Golf Association, recently held a Cowboys & Cowgirls tournament and 60 players participated in this event.

The format of the tourney was a three-person scramble with two Cowboys and one Cowgirl per team. In addition, players on each team couldn’t be from the same family, so spouses couldn’t play together.

Teams were flighted based on the handicaps of the three players on each team. There were two flights, with two Gross and three Net places awarded for each flight.

The City Council unanimously adopted the name during its June 23 meeting, ending a weeks-long process involving input from both the community and the city’s elected representatives.

The park development, initially costing $13 million, primarily was funded with 2022 bond money. The near-30-acre space across from Curington Elementary School is expected to total $16 million for its first phases.

Of 14 names submitted by council members, “the overall highest-ranked name was Boerne Heritage Park,” Assistant City Manager Kristy Stark told the council. “The next five names, the top six, you might say, ranked very very close, almost the same.”

Those five — Boerne Commons, Boerne Erbschaft (Heritage) Park, Volkspark, Boerne Community Park and North Boerne Community Park — received further council review.

Mayor Pro Tem Ty Wolosin said he looked up “Heritage” and “Commons” as park names “and they are extremely common throughout Texas. There are tons of them.”

With those names, he said, “There is no uniqueness, which I think, that’s one thing about our community, is the uniqueness. Boerne itself is a unique name.”

He suggested tying the top choice, Heritage, with a German word or name, to pay homage to the immigrants who traveled from North Europe to settle Boerne.

“Could we add something to those, to kind-of join the German heritage with one of those?” he said. Wolosin offered Boerne Heritage Volkspark, “something to make it more unique, might be interesting.”

Volkspark is German for “people’s park” or “public park” in English.

District 5 Councilman Joseph Macaluso agreed, saying, “I think it speaks to the heritage, overall and to the German history as well.”

He added, “To make it work, you just marry them.”

District 2 Councilman Joe Bateman urged caution on getting too creative with the name.

“I think we need to be cautious and not ‘over-unique’ ourselves with a name that’s difficult to pronounce” or people fail to understand its relevance, he said.

He added, “Whatever name we pick tonight, it’s about the park becoming a valued community asset. I’ve kind-of looked back and said, ‘You know what? There aren’t any wrong answers on this list.”

While he expressed his satisfaction with tying German heritage to the park, he added the naming process proved very time consuming.

“To me, the more important business is what we started off the meeting with, the city budget, and making sure we plan ahead for the next 10 years,” he said. “Boerne itself is a unique name.”

— Mayor Pro Tem Ty Wolosin

While no Kendall County residents died, the rising waters took a toll on commerce.

Businesses in Comfort saw a drop in customers, and supplies of free food and no-cost care products for rescue and recovery teams also bit into the bottom line. Already hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, the July 4 storm further rocked Comfort merchants.

A year later, the Boerne Star in a continuing series is chronicling the town’s rebirth and showcasing recovering businesses as residents roll up their sleeves, rebuild and get ready to “Bounce Back” once again.

COMFORT — For nearly a century and a half, travelers have found rest within the walls of Hotel Giles. What began as a stagecoach stop along one of the Hill Country’s busiest routes has evolved into a boutique hotel where the operators say Victorian charm and modern comforts exist side by side. .

Constructed in 1880 by architect Alfred Giles, the building originally served as a stagecoach stop for travelers making the journey between San Antonio and Fredericksburg.

Everything changed with the arrival of the railroad in 1890.

As rail travel gradually replaced the stagecoach, the building adapted with the times. An expansion completed in 1894 added a lobby and a parlor, spaces that remain preserved today. Guests walking through the front doors are greeted by these original gathering rooms, as well as the hotel’s historic central staircase.

While history remains at the heart of Hotel Giles, today’s guests enjoy modern amenities. Complimentary Wi-Fi, Roku televisions, Keurig coffee makers and spa-quality towels and bedding provide contemporary conveniences without sacrificing the building’s historic character.

The hotel entered a new chapter in March 2022 when Ernest Slatinsky and Cara Hines purchased the property, fulfilling a vision they had long shared.

“We always dreamed of owning a hotel,” Hines said.

Since taking ownership, they have focused on preserving the hotel’s beauty while making significant improvements to its infrastructure, ensuring the historic building will continue greeting visitors for years to come.

The property is now owned by seven partners: Slatinsky, Hines, Bruce and Linda Tingle, George Brin and Colleen Walter-Brin, and Laura Lee Hines.

Each guest room has its own personality, and several accommodations welcome four-legged companions, making Hotel Giles an “inviting destination for travelers with dogs,” employees said.

A recommended accommodation is the owner’s suite. The operators said the spacious retreat features a sparkling crystal chandelier suspended above the bedroom, a fireplace and a dining table that seats eight guests. From its private balcony, visitors can view Comfort’s picturesque Main Street while taking in the quiet pace of the historic town below.

The suite’s flooring is crafted from Mississippi longleaf pine, adding another authentic touch to the building’s character.

Each morning begins with a freshly prepared breakfast, offering guests a homemade start before they explore Comfort and the surrounding Hill Country.

Just across the street, visitors can continue their experience with another of Hines’ passions.

She owns MixHaus Art Gallery, a space dedicated to showcasing local artists. Exhibitions rotate every six to eight weeks, ensuring something new for returning visitors. Artists hoping to display their work must first present a portfolio demonstrating at least five years of artistic experience before being considered, sponsors said.

For Slatinsky, Hines and their fellow owners, preserving Hotel Giles means more than maintaining a historic building.

According to them, it means providing guests with an opportunity to experience a piece of Comfort’s past while enjoying the conveniences expected by modern travelers.

Hotel Giles 

717 High St., Comfort 

Hotelgiles.com

Kendall County officials have renewed a disaster declaration for the New World screwworm, saying it’s only a matter of time before the infestation shows up in the Hill Country.

County Judge Shane Stolarczyk told Commissioners Court June 23 he signed the first order June 18 after consulting with more than two dozen officials who recently gathered in Boerne, then issued it again this week.

“It’s not a matter of ‘if’ but ‘when’ we start getting reported cases here,” Stolarczyk said. “That’s when it becomes incumbent upon us ... to be vigilant.”

He signed the disaster declaration “based on conversations with (Texas Department of Emergency Management) and a bunch of other folks from surrounding counties ... and the advice we received was to enter the disaster declaration.” The New World screwworm is a parasitic fly native to the Western Hemisphere. It lays eggs in the living tissue of fresh wounds in warm-blooded animals. The larvae —maggots — feed on the host’s flesh, causing severe wounds and often death if untreated.

The pest was eradicated in the U.S. in the 1960s. Since then, it occasionally reemerges and has resurfaced in Central America and Mexico, entomologists said.

So far, no cases have been reported in Kendall County. On June 3, screwworm was first confirmed in Texas in a calf in Zavala County.

As of June 26, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has reported 25 cases of screwworm in America.

The most recent report was of four infected sheep in Crockett County.

Stolarczyk said the screwworm does not feed on carcasses that normally attract flies and maggots, only live animals.

“This is just a matter of us being vigilant. We don’t want our livestock, as well as our deer and axis, being decimated by this,” he said.

Gov. Greg Abbott first signed a New World Screwworm Disaster Proclamation on Jan. 29, which has been renewed every 30 days.

A June 5 proclamation inked by Abbott recognized the recent migration and spread of the screwworm in the state, saying it “presents an imminent threat of widespread danger and injury” to the Texas’ livestock and wildlife, and the state economy as a result.

The proclamation signed June 18 by Stolarczyk states that “a declaration ... will initiate additional emergency management measures (that) authorize the use of resources and encourage the coordination between Kendall County and other entities” facing similar screwworm problems.

A newsletter produced by Precinct 2 Commissioner Andra Wisian notes several neighboring counties have established quarantine zones, including Kerr County.

“Unearthing Boerne” stories are off to a great start, with six oral histories collected from members of our town.

One of the most common themes discussed is advice to the younger generations: “Don’t be afraid to live a little,” “Explore and travel,” and “Make sure to show kindness to everyone.”

Thank you to all the interviewees so far, you all have had a fantastic start to a new project. If you are interested in recording a brief oral history with us, please contact Sarah at the library or join us at one of the following locations to record a brief oral history to dig up what makes Boerne special to you.

Afterward, as a fun bonus, enjoy exploring our new digs: The Bookmobile.

-- July 1, 10 a.m., The Kronkosky Center, 17 Old San Antonio Road.

-- July 15, 10 a.m., Menger Springs, Grand Loop, Boerne.

• June 30 is the final day for Cave Without a Name’s “A Journey Beneath the Texas Hill Country” exhibit at the library, 451 N. Main St.

• Make sure to check out our summer calendars, both online and in print formats, to keep up to date with all our dino-mite programs like Triassic Tabletop and Mahjong game nights happening June 30. Make sure to secure your spot and register.

• “Lattes at the Library” is back, and better than ever.

This summer, enjoy talks on backyard fossils with Miss Leslie and a make-and-take project with Sarah during our “Fossil Files” programs every other Wednesdays at 10 a.m. RSVPs required due to limited space; find where to register on our online library calendar.

Dates are: July 8, 10 a.m., backyard fossil exploration and discussion with Miss Leslie.

July 22, 10 a.m., dino terrarium craft with Sarah.

• ABENDKONZERT BY BOERNE Parks and Recreation: Join the Boerne community and the Boerne Village Band, the longest continuously playing German band outside of Germany, at 7:30 p.m. for an evening concert on the lawn at Main Plaza. Details: 830-248-1635.

JULY 1

• KISS THE COOK ANNIVERSARY celebration: This longtime Boerne kitchen shop marks its 20th anniversary with a celebration from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 113 E. Theissen St. Guests are invited to join the celebration with giveaways, cooking demonstrations, samples and community fun. Details: 830-249-3637.

JULY 3

• MUSIC IN THE CAVE: Experience the Queen’s Throne Room at Cave Without a Name, 325 Kreutzberg Road, with a performance by the Tinsel Singers beginning at 7:30 p.m. Tickets, $40 in advance, $45 at the door. Purchase tickets at: cavewithoutaname. com

JULY 4

• FLAG RUN 5K: Runners will begin at 8 a.m. at Boerne’s Main Plaza and show their patriotism running the 5K with a flag. There is also a onemile run. Proceeds go to the Boerne Fire Department and a scholarship for a high school senior. To register: runsignup.com.

• COMFORT JULY 4 PARADE begins at 9:0 a.m. children’s bicycle parade, followed by the Independence Day Parade through Comfort’s Historic District. After the parade, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., over to Comfort Park where the celebration continues.

• BLACK RIFLE BLOCK PARTY: Join Black Rifle Coffee Company and Mainz Meat Market from 5-9 p.m. as they shut down the street for an evening packed with live music, food, cold drinks and classic cars. Details: 830-428-6736.

JULY 5

• BREAKFAST AND BADGES Buffet at Tapatio Springs: Dine alongside first responders who protect our community every day from 8-11 a.m. at Tapatio Springs Resort, 1 Resort Way. The morning also features fire trucks, ambulances and police vehicles on display. First responders eat free.

• BOERNE CONCERT BAND Independence Day Concert from 7-8:30 p.m. at Veterans Plaza, 801 S. Main St., playing patriotic favorites to celebrate the 250th birthday of America. Bring lawn chairs and a flag to be a part of the celebration.

• INDEPENDENCE DAY FESTIVAL: Bring the family from 6-9 p.m. for an evening of patriotic fun at Tapatio Springs, 1 Resort Way, featuring classic games, concessions, live music and festive activities. Cap the night with a spectacular fireworks show.

JULY 9

• TIKI IN TEXAS Cocktail Workshop: Guests are welcomed with a cocktail, then guided through a hands-on experience crafting two tropical drinks using professional barware and premium ingredients. From 7-8:30 p.m. at Camp Bar and Feed, 421 S. Main St. Tickets $50.

• INTERIOR DECORATING CLASS: Join Hunter Haus Interiors from 5-7:30 p.m. at Girls Night In, 170 S. Main St., for an evening exploring the art of elevated living and timeless design. Tickets $60/person.

JULY 11

• GOAT YOGA: Stretch, breathe and smile your way through this joyful outdoor yoga experience from 9-10 a.m. at Herff Farm, 33 Herff Road. Register at cibolo.org.

• NATURE MAKERS Workshop: Come experience a little farmyard magic from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Teaching Gardens, 33 Herff Road. Kids will plant “magic beans” to take home and grow. There will also be a magic show and live performances by local young magicians.

• CARS, COFFEE & CIGARS: Automotive enthusiasts are invited to ease into the weekend from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Oak, 605 S. Main St. The event brings together an eclectic mix of vehicles, pastries and coffee.

• AUTHOR ALLEY by the Boerne Bookshop from 1-5 p.m. in the alley that leads to The Boerne Bookshop from Main Street. Local authors promote their books each month. Details: 830-249-0000.

• BLUEGRASS JAM: Bring your instrument and play along or just come to listen to the bluegrass jams from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. while exploring the exhibits and grounds of The AgriCultural, 102 City Park Road. Free to the public; donations are welcome.

JULY 14

• MONEY SKILLS 101: Join Chase Bank Lemon Creek from 11 a.m. to noon for a free “Money Skills 101: Fraud and Scams” workshop. Attendees will learn how staying organized can keep you safe, how to spot common scams and help protect yourself. Hosted at Chase Bank-Lemon Creek, 10049 Lemon Creek Blvd. #101. To register: https:// events. chase. com/ ereg/ newreg. php?eventid=300088234

JULY 16

• SOURDOUGH WORKSHOP at Herff Farm, 33 Herff Road, Boerne. Join a hands- on class from 6:30-8 p.m., covering the history, science and art of sourdough. Attendees will take home kitchen tools and an established sourdough starter. Contact: sarahb@cibolo.org. Cost $65.

JULY 17

• MOVIE IN THE POOL: Free, family- friendly screening of “ Zootopia 2” at the Boerne Pool, 106 City Park Road, Boerne. The movie starts at sundown, but make plans to arrive early for some pre- movie fun starting at 7 p. m.

JULY 18

• THRIFTY HAPPY HOUR from 5-8 p.m. benefiting the Hill Country Animal League. Join the Thrifty Happy Hour, 115 W. Bandera Road, for an evening of food, drinks, raffles, door prizes, and store shopping deals.

• MOVIE NIGHT AT the Museum: Join the Hill Country Council for the Arts beginning at 7 p.m. for a showing of “Point Break,” a free outdoor movie night at the Agricultural Museum & Arts Center, 102 City Park Road, Boerne. Bring a blanket or lawn chairs and enjoy a great film under the Texas sky.

Special Olympics USA Games

What started on the playing field has extended far beyond sports, creating friendships and fostering understanding, and for one Boerne police officer, it is sending him to Minnesota.

For Officer Eric Gomez, supporting Special Olympics Texas has always been about more than volunteering. It has been about building relationships, celebrating achievements, and creating opportunities for inclusion.

Gomez left Jue 19 for a weeklong trip to represent Team Texas June 20-26 at the 2026 Special Olympics USA Games in Minneapolis as part of the Unified Sports program, which brings athletes with and without intellectual disabilities together on the same team.

“What first drew me to Special Olympics Texas was the athletes,” Gomez said. “I initially got involved thinking I was there to help, but it didn’t take long to realize I was getting just as much out of the experience as they were.”

Gomez, a 15-year veteran of the Boerne Police Department, has spent much of his time helping people during difficult moments. His involvement with Special Olympics, however, has provided a different perspective on community service.

“It has helped me focus on celebrating people’s abilities, achievements, and potential,” he said. “True community service is about being present, building trust, and creating opportunities for everyone to feel valued and included.”

Gomez said Unified Sports helps break down barriers by emphasizing teamwork, friendship, and shared goals. Athletes compete together, support one another, and demonstrate what inclusion looks like both on and off the field.

“If you’ve ever met Officer Gomez, you know he has a gift for bringing people together,” Chief of Police Steve Perez said. “He embodies what community policing is all about, and his selection to Team Texas is a well-earned recognition of that commitment and a source of great pride for our department and the community we serve.”

For Gomez, representing Texas at the national games is an honor he does not take lightly.

“Team Texas represents determination, resilience, and pride,” he said. “I look forward to competing with my teammates, helping them stay motivated, and ultimately bringing home a gold medal.” One of Gomez’s favorite Special Olympics memories came while volunteering as a DJ at the Summer Games in San Antonio. Performing for more than 3,000 athletes and family members, he initially felt overwhelmed by the size of the crowd. Those nerves quickly disappeared as athletes filled the dance floor with energy and enthusiasm.

Gomez encourages those who have never attended a Special Olympic event to get involved.

“You don’t need any special experience,” he said. “Just show up, be willing to help, and take it all in. Chances are, you’ll leave wanting to come back.”

1st Gross - Pedro Heredia, Brian Gaines, Kathleen Kokernot.

2nd Gross - Ron Bowman, Robert Churchman, Pam Parish.

1st Net - Mark Wilson, David Mihaila, Michele Hartmann.

2nd Net - Rick Moulton, Mike Harkness, Sheila Hernandez.

3rd Net - John Maywald, Scott Ullmann, Kirby Stelmazewski.

FLIGHT 2

1st Gross - Randy Reese, Jimmy Locke, Lynne Crews.

2nd Gross - Pete Robinson, Ryan Jones, Sondra Vrana.

1st Net - Ron Mangum, David Keel, Andrea Denham.

2nd Net - Charlie Crews, Pat Childress, Margo Freedman.

3rd Net - Billy Denham, Jeff Lott, Margaret Mangum.

Johnson joins a distinguished list of Boerne ISD players – six from Boerne High and two from Boerne Champion – who have made it to the College World Series since 2002, and two of the eight who have played there have won national championships.

Here’s a look at the Great 8.

Boerne High Camden Johnson (Oklahoma) After graduating from Boerne High in 2023, Johnson played two years at Wichita State before transferring to Oklahoma, and it was the right move because the Sooners won it all this year.

Johnson is quite an athlete and played football for the Greyhounds as a wide receiver and was able to show his athletic ability on several key plays for OU’s defense at third base during the NCAA playoffs. He batted in the No. 2 spot for the Sooners.

He is eligible to return next year to the Sooners for his senior season, but his return may depend on this year’s MLB Draft.

Seth Johnston (Texas)

Johnston made more trips to the College World Series of the eight BISD players who have made it to Omaha. He graduated from Boerne High in 2001 and then helped the University of Texas play in the College World Series for four straight seasons.

Johnston, who also played football at BHS, helped the Longhorns win two national titles. Texas won championships in 2002 and again in 2005 during his senior season when he was named a first-team All-American shortstop.

Johnston played for three national titles, winning two, and was named to two CWS All-Tournament teams. He played for the San Diego Padres organization for five years, including a stint with the San Antonio Missions.

Russell Moldenhauer (Texas) Moldenhauer guided Boerne High to the 2004 4A state baseball title and was named the Championship Game MVP as a sophomore. He was a catcher and pitcher for the Hounds and was the winning pitcher in their championship game against Denton Ryan, which featured two future MLB players.

Moldenhauer was also a standout football player as a wide receiver and punter for the Greyhounds. He was drafted after high school in 2006 in the third round by the Los Angeles Angels but instead went to play at Texas. It was during his junior year in 2009 that UT played at the CWS where they lost the championship series to LSU in three games.

Moldenhauer had quite a World Series in ’09 and hit four home runs from the DH spot while in Omaha to tie a CWS record. Two of the homers came against LSU in Game 1 of their championship series, and Moldenhauer was named to the All-Tournament Team for his efforts.

After graduating from UT in 2010, he was drafted by the Washington Nationals and spent several years playing minor league baseball.

Douglas Hodo (Texas)

Hodo graduated from Boerne High in 2019 and played at the University of Texas for three seasons and helped guide the Longhorns to College World Series appearances in 2021 and 2022.

It made sense that Douglas went to UT because his father Doug Hodo also played at Texas and won a national championship in 1983 alongside Roger Clemens, playing for the legendary Cliff Gustafson.

In 2021, the Horns were one win away from playing in the championship series and in 2022, they went out in two games.

After the 2022 CWS, Hodo was drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in the sixth round with the 167th pick as an outfielder. Another former BHS player, 100-mile per hour pitcher Cole Phillips, was also selected in that draft by the Atlanta Braves in the second round with the 57th pick.

Hodo is now playing AA ball with the Orioles organization and still chasing the dream of reaching the majors.

Hodo was another standout football player for the Greyhounds, and while in high school, he became Boerne’s all-time leader in receptions, receiving yards and touchdowns.

Connor Queen (Texas Tech) Upon graduation from BHS in 2016, Queen attended Odessa Community College for a year and then played at Texas Tech for the remainder of his college career where he helped the Red Raiders reach the College World Series in 2018 and 2019.

Queen was Boerne’s ace pitcher but moved to the Bullpen while at Texas Tech. In the 2018 CWS, Queen threw against No. 1 ranked Florida, and in 2019, Queen pitched two innings of scoreless ball against Michigan.

He finished the ’19 season with a team-best 1.06 ERA and was 4-0 in 11 appearances out of the pen.

It was Tech’s fourth CWS appearance in six seasons and their third Big 12 title in four years in 2019.

Queen sported long hair and had a bushy beard and donated his hair to charity to honor a family member who has passed away with cancer. He was also a football player for the Greyhounds before focusing on baseball.

Zane Badmaev (A&M) Badmaev stood out on the mound because of his 6-foot-8 frame.

He graduated from BHS in 2018 and started his college career at Tarleton State University. Badmaev suffered an injury in his first year at Tarleton and only played one game, earning him a redshirt that season.

After playing with the Texans from 2019-23, he ended up at Texas A&M for his senior redshirt season and helped the Aggies reach the 2024 College World Series.

The Aggies advanced to the championship series against Tennessee and lost Game 3 to the Volunteers, 6-5.

Badmaev started Game 2 against Tennessee and threw one full inning and gave up two hits, no walks, struck out two and didn’t yield a run.

He is now listed as the Director of Pitching Development on the Tarleton State website.

Boerne Champion

Luke Boyers (TCU)

Boyers excelled in three different sports while at Boerne Champion and was a football, baseball and track standout before graduating in 2020.

He was an outfielder and played with Texas Christian University at the 2023 College World Series. TCU went 2-2 at the CWS that year and fell in the semifinals to Florida, who lost in the finals to LSU.

Besides playing all four years on the varsity baseball team at Champion, Boyers competed at the 2018 UIL state track meet in the long jump and was a two-time district champ in the event.

Boyers had blazing speed and was the starting quarterback on the 13-2 Charger football team that played in the state semifinals and set school records for the most wins and deepest playoff run in the fall of 2019.

Jordan Thompson (A&M) Thompson only played one year at Champion after he transferred in from a San Antonio school for his senior season and was an all-state performer for the Chargers that year.

After graduating from Champion in 2018, Thompson played at Greyson College in Denison and spent another season at the University of the Incarnate Word where he played alongside his brother Jeremy Thompson before transferring to Texas A&M.

Thompson and the Aggies played at the 2022 College World Series and he blasted a 3-run homer in their opener against Oklahoma. Despite the Thompson homer, A&M lost and played Texas in the next game and eliminated the Longhorns.

While in college, Thompson played for the San Antonio Flying Chanclas of the Texas Collegiate League in 2020 at Wolff Stadium as part of the San Antonio Missions organization.

The Eagles sent 22 players and five coaches to Waco, including first-year head coach Adam Foren, who said his team performed well.

“I give our players and staff a lot of credit,” Foren said. “We’ve ramped up expectations and they’ve responded extremely well to that.”

At the tourney, the Eagles opened with round-robin play and went 1-2. Geneva lost to Kinkaid, 49-34, beat McKinney Christian Academy, 47-25 and lost to Southwest Christian, 34-33 in overtime. After that, Geneva went to bracket play and won all three games. The Eagles beat Plano John Paul II, 46-20, defeated Grace Community in the semifinals, 35-26 and then played McKinney Christian again, this time for the bronze championship. Geneva claimed the bronze bracket championship over McKinney Christian, 40-7.

The Eagles are in a newlook district this fall and will have some long bus rides. Foren said driving to Waco on a bus in June will help get them ready for the fall.

“It was a good dry run,” he said. “We’re going on road trips, so we need to get used to traveling.”

Prior to the TAPPS 7 on 7 state tourney, Geneva played in a 7 on 7 league and posted a 5-0 record in games hosted by San Antonio Christian. Foren said they will continue summer conditioning workouts through July and will begin official workouts on Aug. 3.

The city of Boerne and the surrounding area caught Boerne Little League fever as the team made it all the way to the 2024 championship game at the Little League World Series where the team finished second in the nation and fourth internationally.

There were watch parties all around town and in the San Antonio area as they gained a following both locally and nationally. When the Little League World Series was over, the team received a hero’s welcome with a water cannon salute at the airport, a local parade and a police escort. They also made appearances at several community events.

It’s a detailed book and basically gives a blowby- blow account of each game through the team’s historic run, almost pitch by pitch, but making sure to highlight the accomplishments of the players.

Christ also gives a blueprint on how to develop young athletes and tips the team learned from their experiences that historic season.

Copies of the book can be purchased on Amazon and at the Boerne Bookshop and D-Bat Boerne.