Danny Phillips: Set In Family

Danny Phillips standing outdoors in Kendall County with oak trees behind him, reflecting on faith, family roots, and vocation

Outside the window behind him, an enormous oak tree fills the frame, its branches stretching wide across the front yard, older than the conversation taking place beneath it. He gives thanks for the opportunity “to reflect and remember all of your goodness and beauty that takes place in this place, in this city.” He prays … Read more

Rooted in Boerne, Committed to Serve

Officer Jacob De Anda of the Boerne Police Department standing in uniform on a residential street in Boerne, Texas

For Officer Jacob De Anda, law enforcement was never a backup plan. It was something he feltcalled to from an early age, shaped by growing up in Boerne and seeing firsthand the trustbetween the community and its officers.“My family has been in the Hill Country for over 30 years,” De Anda said. “Growing up here,the … Read more

Hermann Lange (1844–1862): A Hill Country Unionist Remembered A Young Life Lost in the Struggle for Principle

Black and white image of cypress tree roots along the Guadalupe River in Comfort, Texas, reflecting Hill Country history and heritage

In the Hill Country town of Comfort, where the cypress trees lean over the Guadalupe River and thelimestone hills glow gold in the lateday sun, history is never far from view. It lingers in the old stonebuildings, in the German street names, and in the quiet dignity of the Treue der Union Monument.Among the names … Read more

Still Carrying the Load: General Leroy Sisco

General Leroy Sisco standing outdoors at sunset wearing a black cowboy hat and red shirt, representing a lifetime of military service and leadership.

I first met General Leroy Sisco several years ago at a campaign event for Quico Canseco. It was one of those introductions that happens in passing. A handshake. A few words. A sense that the man in front of you carries gravity, even if you don’t yet know why. The room was loud, the night … Read more

Jerry McKenna: The Sculptor of Three Lives

Elderly sculptor smiling in his studio beside a detailed football sculpture and a championship football helmet.

When you sit with Jerry McKenna, time slows down in the best way. The man has lived enough for three lifetimes, and he talks about each one with a steadiness that comes from earned peace. His voice is gentle, his memory sharp, and his stories roll out one after another with the calm of someone … Read more

The Resolve That Built Us

Bearded man leaning out of the window of a weathered vintage truck inside a rustic barn.

Every January, something interesting happens. People start talking about resolutions. Gyms get crowded. Grocery carts fill with greens. Planners fly off the shelves. Everyone seems to be searching for a fresh start. There is nothing wrong with that. A resolution shows hope. It tells the world that a person wants to be better. But over … Read more

Never, Ever Give Up: The Man Who Dug Deep and Saved Texas Water

Donny May leans against a barn wall at sunset on his Bergheim ranch, reflecting strength, humility, and faith.

If you drive east of Boerne, where the land begins to rise and the trees crowd closer to the road, you’ll see a stretch of fence that tells you exactly who lives there. Simple white signs with bold red letters, speaking the kind of truths that make people honk, grin, and nod their heads. They … Read more

Faith and Service: Sheriff Al Auxier

Kendall County Sheriff Al Auxier stands confidently with arms crossed, wearing his uniform and cowboy hat, symbolizing faith and servant leadership.

For Kendall County Sheriff Al Auxier, the badge has never been about authority. It has always been about service to God, to community, and to the men and women who stand beside him. His journey into law enforcement began nearly forty years ago and continues today, guided by the same principles that first led him … Read more

From the Director of Photography

U.S. Army combat medic Jonathan Mallard during deployment in Baghdad, Iraq, 2005, photographed in uniform holding a rifle.

Telling the stories of Kendall County men has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. Each assignment reminds me of the strength, humility, and faith that define this community. Whether I am photographing a veteran, a public servant, or a neighbor who simply loves well, I see the character that holds this place … Read more