Columns

After finding the perfect feline friend at a rescue or shelter to add to the family, many people cannot wait to bring their new addition home.

Dear Doctors: When our grandson first learned his colors, he sang them along with music. We thought he was copying that song for learning the ABCs. But when he got older, he started saying that he 'hears' the colors. We have been told this is called synesthesia. How and why does it happen?

Guadalupe Brewing Co. got its start as many small breweries do, making beer in a pieced together system in a leased warehouse space. Bordered by farmland and a massive limestone quarry and cement plant on the southwestern edge of New Braunfels, Keith and Anna Kilker have spent years moving away from the warehouse and tasting-room vibe to create a destination.

You can find many ways to support charitable organizations. One method that’s gained popularity over the past few years is called a donor-advised fund. Should you consider it?

I’ve been reading books with a theme, once again. For the last several months I devoured any books I could get my hands on about libraries or bookshops. Then I discovered a sub-genre, if you will, among these. I was drawn to books that explored the idea of “the gift of reading.” I found this in both fiction and non-fiction titles.

‘Tis the season to shop local in Boerne! I’d like to invite our community to support our Boerne Restaurant and Retailer Owner’s Association this December for A Toast to Old Town and Kinder Fest weekends.

Dear Doctors: My brother- in-law is 57 years old, and he is getting coronary bypass surgery. I don’t want to bother him or my sister with a lot of questions right now, but I do want to understand what is happening. Why is this surgery needed, and how is it done? Will it fix whatever is wrong?

Ruminants like cattle, sheep, and goats have a unique digestive system that allows them to gain energy from forage such as mature pasture grass and hay. The carbohydrates found in these feeds help to provide ruminants with healthy energy, but did you know that consuming high amounts of certain other types of carbohydrates can be dangerous— and even deadly?

Early voting for the general election ends on Friday, Nov. 4, with the closely watched governor’s race pitting incumbent Gov. Greg Abbott against challenger Beto O’ Rourke headlining the ballot. A number of other statewide races are on the ballot, including lieutenant governor, attorney general, land commissioner, agriculture commissioner and comptroller.

Chris Elliff has been interested in painting since early childhood. However, marriage and raising three sons, delayed her artistic development. After a career in nursing, and an extended education in the health field -- Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing, and Master in Public Health, she retired early to get a handle on personal health issues. With her children educated, married and independent, she returned to her pursuit of art. With limited formal painting instruction, and only one undergraduate class, she has developed her own style and vision. Initially realism was her focus.

This past week I shared the State of the City presentation to the Greater Boerne Chamber of Commerce. In preparing for this annual event, it’s a time to reflect briefly on what’s been accomplished, but more importantly to look forward and discuss what’s coming.

This is a reprinted column from Jack Purcell’s “On the Journey” archives. It originally appeared in The Star in 2013. There is a very interesting parallel existing in our world today with a spiritual condition that exists with those of us who call ourselves Christians. Some of you may not like my description of the first half of the parallel but I trust you will give it the benefit of an open mind.