NFamily Magazine July/August 2013 by NFAMILY Magazine

San Antonio Parenting Magazine

By St. Peter – St. Joseph Children’s Home

IN PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE

THE JACKSON FAMILY

How to help your

FURRY FRIENDS beat the heat

Camps of Character

SPURS and

SILVER STARS

Basketball Camps

july.august 2013

> Tips for outdoor fun in the sun > FOOD ALLERGIES 101 > Eliminating excuses fitness in the park nfamily magazine 1

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To learn more about how we can help with your child’s back, neck or extremity pain, call: 210.387.3388 To Make An Appointment 210.487.7463 Main Office Children’s Orthopaedic & Spine Center Texas Center for Athletes 21 Spurs Lane, Ste. 245 | San Antonio, Texas 78240

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Dr. Hongbo Liu is a fellowship trained pediatric and adult orthopaedic spine surgeon, who received extensive training to specialize in the delicate science of Spine Surgery at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.

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Spine Surgery Sports Medicine

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july 2013august

contents 12

feature

parenting

kids’ etiquette

child development

- Wow moments

- The way I see it - Love the child you have - Summer with the grandchildren - Heightening the senses

- Gracious gift receiving

- A head start on health - Health for the whole family - Building a healthy foundation - Food allergies and your kids

special issues

therapy

faith

fitness

- Get back on track

- Helping children cope - Beat the blues

- A prayer for the pope - How to make a really fast slide

- Camps of character - Eliminating excuses

fur family - Dog days of summer - Pawz in the city

22 Dean and Dr. Amy Jackson share their family’s inspiring story of weathering life’s storms and always striving for both personal and professional excellence.

arts

nonprofit

- Something greater

- Breaking the cycle of poverty

62 66

events - Summer family fun

last laughs - Our readers share their children’s wit, wisdom and one-liners nfamily magazine 7

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from the editor

july/august 2013

Eliot Garza

CEO / NSIDE Media Productions

How do we differentiate the pursuit of excellence from the aspiration for perfection? Those who are a tinge OCD, such as myself, strive for for perfection knowing full well that the only things perfect among us were created by a power far higher than us. Much has been written on achieving excellence – steps to take, processes to master, mentors whom we should emulate. The bottom line for me is, as mama always said when I was little, “If you did your best, then that’s all you can do. Be proud.” Years have passed, and I still hear her voice in my mind’s ear reminding me to do my best and then be proud. Somewhere along the line as we mature into adulthood, the words “excellence” and “perfection” become almost interchangeable. Detrimental to our spirit and sense of self worth, we strive for perfection in an imperfect world. Where in the process did these words merge? Almost daily, I watch my friends love, discipline and cherish their children, and at no point have I ever heard one of them demand perfection from their little one. Excellence and pride in all is as high as the bar goes. Throughout this issue of NFamily, you will read about excellence. The picture-perfect Jackson family on our cover embodies the reinforcement of excellence in all they aspire to do. Through setting the bar high for their children and themselves as parents, Dean and Dr. Amy Jackson work together as a family unit to turn challenges into opportunities for growth, learning and the formation of character. Be it excellence in daily tasks, eating healthy or raising children to be of solid character, this issue overflows with innovative content that will help you, as parents, get your little ones one step closer to reaching the bar you’ve set for them. Happy reading, and as always, please let us hear from you, be it accolade or constructive criticism. We are only as good as our last issue, and you are the audience and the bar we’ve set for ourselves.

Tina Rabe Publisher

Editorial Director Kelly Hamilton

Executive Editor Erin O’Brien

Creative Director Elisa Giordano

Graphic Designers Damaris Fike Cristina Villa Hazar

Executive Assistant Ashley Gray

International Marketing Account Sales Anabelle Rodriguez

Contributing Writers Genevieve Allen Olivia Bakke Alan Carl Dr. Frank Emmett Chris Emmitt Emily Glisson Claudia Gonzalez Dr. Erika Gonzalez-Reyes Bryan Jones Sr. Rose Kruppa Katherine Lozano Heather Magarian Susan Marcus Susie Monday Suzy Monford Daniel Quintero Victoria Raquepaw Deborah D. Salas Samantha Salazar Dr. Sandra Carrell Tremblay Dustin York Sr.

Photography Memory Magic San Antonio

Editorial Intern Katrina Torres For advertising information, please call 210.373.2599 or email eliot@getnside.com.

“I am careful not to confuse excellence with perfection. Excellence I can reach for; perfection is God’s business.” – M. J. Fox

For editorial comments and suggestions, please email kelly@getnside.com.

kelly hamilton Editorial Director kelly@getnside.com

www.getnside.com 18402 U.S. Highway 281 N, Ste. 201 San Antonio, Texas 78259 Phone: 210.298.1761 Copyright © NSIDE Media Productions. All rights reserved. Reproduction without the expressed written permission of the publisher is prohibited.

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nfamily staff Tina Rabe Publisher

Kelly Hamilton Editorial Director kelly@getnside.com

Erin O’Brien Executive Editor

Elisa Giordano Creative Director

erin@getnside.com

elisa@getnside.com

“ Where smiles blossom ”

pediatric dentistry Carlen Palmer Blume, DDS, PC Board Certified Pediatric Dentist Damaris Fike Graphic Designer

Cristina Villa Hazar Graphic Designer

damaris@getnside.com

cristina@getnside.com

Anabelle Rodriguez International Marketing Account Sales

Ashley Gray Executive Assistant

210.685.3028 anabelle@getnside.com

210.560.7608 ashley@getnside.com

Dr. Blume and staff aim to nurture and support your child’s oral health throughout the formative years. We provide contemporary, preventive dentistry in an intimate, fun environment.

8221 Fredericksburg Road, San Antonio, TX 78229 210.614.3334 www.BlumeDentistry.com Se habla Espanol Major insurance accepted, including Medicaid nfamily magazine 9

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Buy One Get One Free! Bring this ad and receive one free ticket with the purchase of a general admission ticket. Valid for TREASURE ISLAND and SEUSSICAL. One coupon per reservation. Reservations must be made by phone. Expires 8/31/13.

Recently, while I was talking on the phone with my wife, she paused in the conversation to say, “How cute. Ryan is trying to make the chickens walk the plank.” Ryan is our 5-year-old, and he likes to dress up as different characters and make-believe he is saving the world. This time, he was a pirate protecting mommy from the scary chickens. The innocence of childhood is a remarkable thing. In childhood, we can be all things and do all things – everything is possible! During these summer months, I encourage you to rekindle the innocence of childhood in your own life with your family. Laugh, play, smile a lot at everyone you see and have fun while you’re saving the world. At St. Peter – St. Joseph Children’s Home (St. PJ’s), we work hard to save children from their abusive backgrounds. It’s the center of everything we do. Please think of us next time you want to make the world a better place. We’d love for you to join us in our special mission.

james castro

210.533.1203

nfamily magazine 11

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feature

 Wow Moments

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 Biovideo and Memory Magic Photography help parents and their families capture some of the most memorable and irreplaceable moments in their children’s lives. by Claudia Gonzalez

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ne of the most important moments in a woman’s life is when she gives birth. Whether women are accompanied by their spouse, partner or family, everyone is part of this very special and unrepeatable event. That is why video and photo cameras are indispensable, and with them, the person who is in charge of filming those moments. Most of the time, the father is responsible for this chore. But once the mom-to-be is ready to deliver, the father has to decide if he is going to enjoy the moment or film it. As a result, the family ends up with awful photos and videos focusing on the floor. In 2004, Carlos Villaseñor from Monterrey, Mexico, saw the opportunity to create a new business when his wife was about to give birth to his first baby and the first grandchild from both

❋ 

has 70 videographers throughout Mexico, mostly in Mexico City, Monterrey and Guadalajara. The parents receive a video of the baby’s first 24 hours starting immediately after birth and covering when the baby is weighed and measured, when the baby is presented for the first time to the mom, when the dad meets the baby, when the siblings and grandparents meet the baby, the first bath, the first clothes, etc. By the end of the child’s second day, before the mother and baby are discharged, the family will be able to enjoy and relive those moments. The incredible thing about this company is that the parents receive the video without any cost – it is free! Another new company in San Antonio is Memory Magic Photography. It is a children’s photography studio that has fresh ideas,

really wants, the main interests of the family or child, hobbies, dreams, favorite colors for clothes and sometimes even a favorite character or song. All of these questions are asked in order to get a close idea about the children’s personalities. Then it’s time for the photo shoot. By this time, the photographer already knows what type of background he or she is going to use and what kind of lights, props and toys to use to entertain the children. The photographer has created a special bond with the parents and prepared a special environment that will make the children feel safe and happy inside the studio. All of these preparations help create a space where the kids can be themselves and the photographer has the opportunity to

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ialize in c e sp s ie n a p m o c se The nts and me o m l ica mag g capturin ts forever. n e m o m se o th r e b helping you remem sides of the family. He was armed with video equipment and ready to film, but at the same time, he felt he had a lot on his shoulders. So the idea came up; why shouldn’t somebody else be in charge of this important task so the parents can actually enjoy the moment? His idea came true, and the business’ name is Biovideo. By now, the company has captured more than 100,000 births. Of these, some 8,500 were recorded at hospitals in San Antonio. The company

lots of creativity and original concepts that produce photos full of emotions and color. It is located in the Stone Oak area. Memory Magic is a franchise that originally started in Mexico. There are now locations in Torreon, Mexico City, Monterrey, Saltillo, Leon, Guadalajara, San Luis Potosi, Veracruz, Puebla, Queretaro and Chihuahua. It also has studios in Brazil. A normal client starts with an appointment where the goal is to found out exactly what the client

capture real emotions, spontaneous smiles and special looks. These two companies, Biovideo and Memory Magic Photography, specialize in capturing unique, irreplaceable and magical moments and helping you remember those moments forever. ✪

To learn more about Memory Magic San Antonio, please call 210-3731568, visit www.memorymagicsanantonio.com or look for the company on Facebook. nfamily magazine 13

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parenting

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Photo by Michael Giordano

Painting by Bryson Brooks, courtesy of Anarte Gallery

The Way I See It A fourth-grader’s perspective on life and what parents can do to make their children feel loved by Olivia Bakke Do you ever wonder how your children see things? Or if you are explaining, let’s say math, and they say they get it, but they really don’t? How would you know what to do to help them? I a m a fourth-grader na med Olivia, and I a m here to tell you how I see life. Well, I a m a little different. I like to go to art museu ms and read about life and interesting places to visit. I love to paint, ride horses and play softball. My favorite colors are pink, aqua and green, and I love anything Lilly Pulitzer. I have a poodle na med Gigi, a shepherd na med Wilbur and a ha mster na med Ha mmie. I have found that life is tricky sometimes, and I don’t always understand things. If you are a parent, you should try to make it easier for your children to understand things or see how they feel because I always feel good when my mom and dad try to help, just for me. So maybe ask, “Do you understand? Can I help you? Do you have something you need to tell

Tell your children every day that you love them “all the way to heaven and back,” and they will say the same thing to you.

me?” And don’t forget to tell your children every day that you love them “all the way to heaven and back” 1,000,000,000,000,000,000, 000,000,000,000,000,000 times … and they will say the sa me thing to you. Sometimes I just have a sad day. So if your children do not seem happy, ask them if they are OK and try to change the topic and make them happy. Or just spend time with them to make them feel loved. Sometimes I just want to relax and have some alone time or hang out with mom and dad. We kids see the world as a place to relax and enjoy life, but after a while, we realize there is a lot to explore and a whole lot to learn. Sometimes people just need to stop and smell the roses. It is hard to just stop and take a break or sit down and spend time with your children, but they really appreciate it, especially when you take time out of your busy day for them. That’s the way I see it. ✪ nfamily magazine 15

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parenting

Love ❤ the Child You Have ❤ The dance of nature and nurture: accepting the nature of our children and nurturing their unique gifts and talents by Katherine Lozano

hildren are as individual as fingerprints and as unique as snowflakes. They are an unpredictable combination of nature and nurture. The child we have comes to us as a combination of generations of mothers and fathers who came before us. The amazing power of God is the infinite combinations He creates of the human clay that scientists call DNA.

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As the master of the genetic wheel, God knows what combination he wants for each and every baby. He inserts the code for the physical, emotional and intellectual skills he will give to each child. Yet sometimes, we try to second-guess and construct our own “ideal child” from the child God sent us. Our world is full of transforming lotions, potions and even operations to change and “improve” who and what we are.

When it comes to children, we tend to employ the same tactics by comparing the child we have to some ideal, perfect child none of us could be. In a recent parenting session, parents were given the task of describing their “ideal child.” Adjectives ranged from loving, kind, intelligent, responsible and loyal to pretty, handsome, neat, clean, quiet, “always obeys the first time” and even “takes a bath without being told.” Now, think about real children in your life. How do they compare with the fantasy list you created? Could any child live up to these ideals? Say we gave our children the task of writing the “ideal parent” job description. How many of us could measure up to the “ideal mother” or “ideal father” list? We strive to do our best, but there is no way we can maintain perfection on an ongoing basis. Of course, our children cannot manage or maintain the ideal, either. “Love the child you have” means embracing your child even when they fuss about the bath and take four reminders to pick up the toys. It is accepting them for the unique combination God created in them. We teach, lead and help in the areas they need help with, but we must be careful to avoid comparing them to other children or to an unreasonable ideal. We must allow children to be children.

One of my pet peeves is hearing someone say, “Don’t be childish,” as if being a child is somehow a bad thing. Children are joyful, exuberant and “hands on” in all

set about the business of nurturing their gifts and talents. The biggest challenge for parents is to maintain patience and understanding as the child grows and

We must allow children to be children. they do. They let you know how they feel. Jesus told us to be like little children to enter the kingdom of heaven. He valued children in a time when children were to be seen and not heard. Little children explore their world and drink it in through all of their senses. The hand of perfection touched them and gave them being. It is our role as parents to value and appreciate who they are and to nurture the gifts they possess. We do not ask the butterfly why it is not a flower; we do not ask the cloud why it is not the sun. All of these things are beautiful and amazing parts of God’s creation. Even more marvelous are the children created in His image. In this dance of nature and nurture, we must accept the nature of our child and

develops from dependence to independence. Loving the child you have is honoring them as God’s creation, loving them unconditionally and giving them time to grow in His image. ✪

For information about our parenting classes, call Parents’ Academy at 210-532-0894. Katherine Lozano is the director of Parents’ Academy.

nfamily magazine 17

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parenting

Summer With the

Grandchildren

Visiting with the grandkids this season? Here are a few ways you can take them on creative adventures and have tons of summer fun. by Susan Marcus and Susie Monday

ummer shows up for some of us with a posse of grandkids landing on the front stoop for a week or two. The great thing about being a grandparent (or great aunt or second-cousinonce-removed) is that you can revisit your own favorite childhood summer activities with a good excuse. And as an “elder” of your “tribe,” you have the wisdom that comes from the long view. The good news is that neuroscience now shows that many things we know from our own experiences are indeed important to developing young minds. So, reenacting some of the things you found delightful when you were young can really take you and the kids on a totally up-to-date creative adventure. Here are a few essentials:

Take play seriously

Play is at the heart of creativity. When you play, you combine and recombine bits and pieces from old idea collections, maybe adding something new (anything from a hat to a stencil to a rowboat), spinning what-ifs and maybe-thens. You move from your linear mind into your more intuitive body – and let your imagination have full reign. Play gives children a chance to rehearse, direct, invent, imitate, fantasize, try on, try out, experiment, rethink, rearrange, start over, express and explore – all very important for developing imaginative skills and fluency of ideas. Innovators consistently acknowledge the power of play in their own lives. So pretend. Role-play with other people. Get hands-on and hands-in. Get a move on and play in the real world. It matters. ● ● ● ●

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Focus on the senses

We think with more than one kind of brain: We think in pictures, in sound and in movement. We think spatially, kinetically and texturally. We literally think with our whole bodies. Use the building blocks of these ways of thinking, the sensory alphabet (line, shape, rhythm color, space, light, movement, sound and texture), to inspire your activities with grandkids this summer. Ironically, it is educating the senses that provides the richest foundation for working creatively with the images, icons and video that pour out of the screens of digital media. These are future-oriented skills children need more than ever. Our book, “The Missing Alphabet: A Parent’s Guide to Developing Creative Thinking in Kids,” has more than 65 pages of activities matched to the sensory alphabet. Consider making one of the nine the focus for a week during your summer of fun. Here’s a sample of a few ideas from the book with summertime written all over them:

Explore movement at San Antonio’s wonderful zoo. Collect the individual movements of animals, reptiles and birds with line drawings or a digital camera. Copy animal movements with your own body – big cats, flying birds, excited monkeys, huge elephants and so on. Once you get home, invent an animal movement game (like charades) that uses as many ways of moving as you can remember.

Explore shape at the San Antonio Museum of Art or the sculpture garden at the McNay Art Museum.

We literally think with our whole bodies. Make sculpture the focus of your museum visit. Count how many different ways artists make human body shapes in their sculptures. Make a collection of photos or sketches as you look for shapes. Back at home, make sculptures inspired by your museum visit with different shape-making materials like boxes, clay, wood scraps, stuffed fabric shapes and cookie dough.

Explore space around your neighborhood. Take a walk around the block and find all of the interesting hiding spaces you can spot along your route. At home, find your best hiding place, your favorite size of space or your pet’s favorites. Make a collection of empty boxes for building, stacking and sorting. Design a playhouse from a refrigerator box or two.

er, blocks, costumes and masks, movement toys and sound instruments. Be sure your grandchild gets to find the pleasure in materials that don’t “do it all,” but need imagining, pretending and making up. Experiences in nature are essential, too, even if that nature is a close-at-hand experience in one of San Antonio’s wild-space parks or walking trails such as Friedrich Park, Mitchell Lake Birding Center or the new trails along Leon Creek. Cognitive research tells us that natural experiences are essential to a child’s development and mental health, and important for us adults, too.

Go with the grain

While each person – no matter his or her age – has a constellation of sensory alphabet strengths, your grandchild probably has one or two that really stand out. These are things you notice in his or her artwork, in what your grandchild pays attention to, in what your grandchild likes to play around with and in the particulars of his or her collections and activities. When you use these proclivities to help you plan summer fun, you’re more likely to find that your grandchild feels successful, retains more from the experiences and has more fun.

Feed it forward

Use “scratch” materials

Today, it’s easy to forget that high-touch experiences are important for cognitive development – and essential for play. Remember how much fun you had as a child with the simplest of materials: water, sand, mud, clay, flour paste, cookie dough, things to take apart and put back togeth-

The field called creative learning is developing too slowly in the formal world of schooling for children to reap its benefits now. This can be a frustrating fact of life for parents and grandparents, but recognize that the summertime adventures you invent will give your grandchild a head start on the innovative thinking skills the future will require. ✪

Susan Marcus and Susie Monday are co-authors, along with Dr. Cynthia Herbert, of “The Missing Alphabet: A Parent’s Guide to Developing Creative Thinking in Kids.” Marcus and Monday share decades of experience designing summer and out-of-school programs for children, training teachers in creative learning programs and developing books and other learning materials. They were partners in San Antonio’s Learning About Learning Educational Foundation during the 1970s and ‘80s, and since then, they have worked in the creative design and education fields in New York, in Texas and across the United States. For more information, see www.themissingalphabet.com or purchase the book at Amazon, Barnes & Noble or another bookseller.

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parenting

Heightening the Senses

Outdoor fun and sensory play for kids that can help you create lasting family memories without busting your budget by Victoria Raquepaw

It’s never too early to start teaching our children about taking care of the planet and establishing earth-friendly habits.

t’s that time of year again: time to shed the sweaters and bask in the beautiful sunshine! As the world around us springs back to life, we all long to get outdoors and your child is no exception. Mother Nature provides boundless opportunities for fun activities that engage your child’s senses through the exploration of new sights, sounds and touches without expensive toys and gadgets. As we all try to make our budgets stretch a little farther, you can entertain and educate your child with simple things found in your kitchen and your own backyard. Experts agree that it is important for parents to encourage development of the senses, and one of the easiest ways to do that is through sensory play. Here are a few simple ideas that can be done outdoors to stimulate your child and peak their curiosity. Before you get started, please remember that young children require constant supervision to ensure their safety. ● ● ● ●

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Chill cookie sheets and/or baking pans in the refrigerator for a few minutes, then place a dollop of pudding in the center and watch as your child “paints” a masterpiece using their fingers to squish, smash and swirl the pudding into various designs that encourage them to use their hands. As a bonus, if some of the pudding should make its way into their mouth, it tastes great and as a parent, you know it’s safe. For those who may be concerned about the mess, a piece of wax paper over the pudding will still allow for lots of fun without the cleanup.

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Add measuring cups, strainers and floating toys to small bowls or shallow containers filled with water, and little hands will learn to pour, dump and experiment while splashing and staying cool. The same containers can also be filled with sand or birdseed to help children learn about different textures, shapes and sizes. Moreover, don’t forget about their feet. Our feet have thousands of nerves that go right into the brain, and children should be given opportunities to feel with their feet as much as their hands. As they play, ask lots of questions about how the different textures feel and explain the differences to your child. When playtime is over, the water can be poured over flowers or shrubs and the birdseed can be tossed in the yard to feed the birds. It’s never too early to start teaching our children about taking care of the planet and establishing earthfriendly habits.

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Walking around your backyard or even the neighborhood park gives you the opportunity to help your child begin identifying flowers, colors, shapes, etc. Ask your child to point to the things they see and give them the words to enhance their vocabulary, but also to make them feel part of the world in which they live. Be patient as they absorb everything around them, and encourage your child to use all of their senses to touch things like smooth rocks or wet grass, to smell flowers and to appreciate all of the things they can see.

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After you have experimented with these ideas or even some of your own, invite other families with small children over for a play date and ask them to bring copies of their best ideas for inexpensive outdoor play on index cards that can be exchanged. The benefits are two-fold because kids and parents have the opportunity to socialize and each family leaves armed with new activities to have even more fun. Plus, you know the ideas have been tried by kids like yours with great results.

Don’t worry if you don’t have the exact items for an activity; improvise and make do with what you have on hand. The most important thing to remember is that the greatest gifts you can give your child are your time, attention and love. Outdoor fun can help provide your child with stimulating activities that are both educational and exciting, and you don’t need a lot of money, as everything necessary to have a great time can be found right in your home. If you need more ideas, utilize websites geared toward families with young children or your local library. Just remember to use your imagination and try to view the world through your child’s eyes. In doing so, you will inspire them to become lifelong learners while also creating lasting family memories. ✪

Victoria Raquepaw is the ECI manager for the Brighton Center. For more information about development strategies for your child, contact the Brighton Center at www.brightonsa.org. nfamily magazine 21

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Effort

Te am Balance, family and the pursuit of excellence: Dean and Dr. Amy Jackson strive for excellence and set the bar high for both their children and themselves.

by Emily Glisson | photographs by Memory Magic San Antonio

he story of Dean and Dr. Amy Jackson began at Baylor University more than 20 years ago on a football field, where the two met and began dating during their senior year. From the outside looking in, Amy and Dean would seem to have begun their journey at Baylor, where Dean was an all-conference linebacker and Amy was homecoming queen and captain

of the cheerleading squad. But truly, their story began long before that, when internally, they were nurtured to pursue excellence in hopes of creating a better life for their future generations. Today, they are both busy professionals and parents of two beautiful children: Kate, age 8, and Jett, age 4. Amy is a successful orthodontist at South Texas Orthodontics who stays busy weaving a thread of excellence into her practice on a daily basis. “I pride nfamily magazine 23

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myself on continual education, advanced technology and creating a perfect custom smile designed for each of my patients.” Her husband, Dean, is a partner at Curney, Farmer, House and Osuna P.C., which is one of San Antonio’s largest locally owned business insurance litigation firms. Dean approaches the representation of each client with selfless zeal, which allows him to collaborate with his clients to make certain the most effective results are achieved on their behalf. When you meet Dean and Amy, you immediately feel a sense of warmth and affability from them. Yet, their tenacious nature shines through in both their professional and personal lives. And the Jacksons certainly know what it’s like to move through the hustle and bustle of everyday life – meeting the challenges of time management and everything else that comes with having a successful career and a family. “The most valuable lesson that I’ve learned in 13 years of marriage and in 12 years of practicing law is that my real job doesn’t begin until 5 p.m.,” Dean said. “No matter what transpires during the day, no matter how many clients need your undivided and immediate attention and no matter who is yelling, ‘off with his head,’ at 5 p.m., I am a husband and a father.” Amy concurred with her husband. “We learned early on that it’s a team effort. You have to pull your weight in order to make things work. And now we’re both busy professionals with two very active children.” Like so many families, Dean and Amy have endured many different challenges over the years, so they certainly don’t sweat the small stuff. But these two are

all too familiar with the difficult task of balancing work, marriage and family. “When we begin our professional careers, I think we all have aspirations to set the world on fire and be the best in whatever we do,” Dean said. “For the first part of your professional career, you set aside half of your life to be the best professional you can be and the other half to be the best spouse you can be. “Then when the blessing of children come along, you find yourself dividing yourself between trying to be the best husband you can be and the best father you can be – and oh yeah, I have a job that requires me to be the best professional that I can be so that food can stay on the table.” When you spend time with the Jacksons, there’s a sense of ease between them – almost as if they’ve figured out the big secret to the art of pursuing mental and physical excellence in all that they do. Despite their busy schedules, it’s clear that their priorities are in check. “What I have found is that my wife and my children make me a better professional because they inspire me to do more than I ever thought imaginable,” Dean said. “My professional commitment makes me a better husband and father. It instills a tremendous amount of patience in me that carries over after 5 p.m.” But sometimes our patience is tested. For the Jacksons, life threw them a serious curve ball in February 2009, during the birth of their son, Jett. “I had a great pregnancy with my son – up until it was time to deliver,” Amy remembered. “Jett was born under an emergency caesarian after a sudden drop in heart rate.”

The doctors diagnosed Amy with two rare conditions: velamentous cord insertion and vasa previa. In layman’s terms, this is when the umbilical cord is inserted into the fetal membrane rather than the placenta, causing a likelihood of the exposed vessels rupturing, which could ultimately result in stillbirth. “While I was in the hospital, I remember that the doctors spent the day trying to find his heartbeat,” Amy said. “By the end of the day, the environment was so frantic and everything was happening so fast. Before I knew it, I was undergoing an emergency C-section.” Once the doctors completed Amy’s caesarian, Jett was whisked away and the doctors performed CPR on him to try and revive his heartbeat and immediately administered a hypothermia therapy protocol with him. Dean and Amy’s newborn son struggled for three days. Doctors were not certain Jett would make it through the first night, and if he did survive, doctors questioned whether or not his brain would function normally. Dean remembers those painful moments. “When my son was born, the neonatologist came to me and said that I needed to make plans. I thought that they meant that I needed to make plans to take him home. In reality and in retrospect, they meant that I needed to make plans for his internment. “That resonates with me now. However, at the time, all I could see was a child that was on an oscillator that could not breathe for himself. I did not know if he would make it … and neither did the doctors or nurses.” It was hypothermia therapy that ultimately saved Jett’s life. For 72 hours, his body was cooled to 91 degrees in order to prevent swelling in the brain and

Despite the many trials and triumphs the Jacksons have endured over the years, their bond is stronger than ever.

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“We constantly try to instill in our children that they must do the right thing even when no one is looking.”

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26 nfamily magazine

spinal cord. After three whole days of this cooling process, doctors began warming his body. After the therapy and a series of tests, the doctors ran a CAT scan, which came back perfect. Once Jett was dismissed from the hospital, he was assigned a team of therapists from the Brighton Center, a nonprofit organization that provides developmental and educational services to children with disabilities. “The most amazing thing I have witnessed in my lifetime was the fight, grit and determination of my son, who, without knowing life, decided to take the road less traveled and wage war against death,” Amy said. “His journey impressed upon me the unique quality of each child and inspires me every day, both as a mother and in the practice of orthodontics, to give each child and patient my very best.” That turning point in the Jacksons’ lives forever changed their outlook on life, making them realize that every single minute counts. “My son’s birth changed me not only as a husband, but also as a father,” Dean said. “He solidified a family together, made a marriage stronger and showed me what true grit looks like. When you face the potential for losing a child, which is out of the natural order of things, you tend to re-access the blessings that you are given not only every day, but every minute.” Amy concurred. “Jett opened a door for me to give to others in a way that I was unable to do before his struggle. It reminds me of a quote by Ralph Waldo Emerson: ‘To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived – that is to have succeeded.’” Despite the many trials and triumphs the Jacksons have endured over the years, their bond is stronger than ever. Their faith is unbreakable, and their love of family is undeniable. Dean and Amy have always strived to have a positive outlook on life, with confidence, commitment and mental readiness for whatever challenge life throws in their path. As parents, they are committed to teaching their children some of life’s greatest and most important lessons. “We spend, as parents, so much time teaching our children the life lessons we believe are the most important, which will hopefully lead to a full and enriched life,” Dean said. “However, the reality of our children’s life is that we will not be there to protect them, guide them or see them through the difficult times in their lives 100 percent of the time. “So my wife and I constantly try to instill in our children that they must do the right thing even when no one is looking. We try to teach our children that they are accountable not only to their family and to God, but most importantly, to themselves.” Another life lesson the Jacksons have passed on to their children is to strive for excellence in all that they do – something Dean and Amy feel very passionate about. “The bar for both of our children is set very high,” Amy said. “Not that we expect them to achieve things, and not that we will be disappointed if they do not. But my husband and I are here to guide our children to their ultimate potential. If we do not, then we have failed as parents.”

ut nothing brings bigger smiles to Dean and Amy than when they are sharing stories about their two amazing children. Amy proudly shared that Jett is a fighter – a pillar of strength who knew life’s struggles even before he was born. As for their daughter, Kate, Amy smiled, as any mother would, while recalling a story about her daughter’s preschool interview several years ago. “I’ll never forget it. Our daughter was being interviewed for preschool at the age of 3, and she wouldn’t talk during the interview. She just looked down and wouldn’t answer any of the questions. So I pulled her aside and asked her what was wrong, and she replied that the school didn’t look fun to her. So I let her know that her behavior was wrong and that anything less than the best was unacceptable. And she looked us both straight in the eye and very confidently replied, ‘I got it, mom and dad. I got all that business.’” Dean and Amy’s story is an inspiration for many who have struggled to weather life’s various storms. They inspire others not to give up, to fight the good fight, to pursue excellence in everything and to not take anything for granted. “I look at every day as a gift from God,” Amy said. “What you decide to do with that gift is your gift to Him.” ✪

For more information, please visit www.southtexasorthodontics.com or call 210493-6067. nfamily magazine 27

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kids’ etiquette

Gracious Gift Receiving Teaching your child the importance of common courtesy when it comes to receiving gifts by Heather Magarian

t’s easy to get excited over getting a new puppy or a new iPad 10. Unfortunately, in life, most presents we receive are just not quite as exciting. It is important we teach our children the importance of graciously receiving presents. How many times have you been at a child’s birthday party and heard the kid say, “I already have this” or “Can we return this for the one I really wanted?” Or worse, when the birthday kid gets crazy excited about a gift, and then your gift is next and he or she says absolutely nothing? Implore your children to grasp the concept.

Acting unappreciative or righteous will not get you a present from the offended next year. The first thing I always ask my students is, “Does someone have to buy you a gift?” The responses are sometimes quite humorous – anything from “No, I suppose not” to “Yes, of course they do” to “I don’t understand the question; why wouldn’t someone get me a birthday gift?” Common courtesy rules of thumb: Always physically take the gift out of the bag or box and hold it up or unfold it, if applicable. This will give the gift giver a visual of their gift in your hands, which signifies you actually using it. Feel-

ing appreciated for their gift gesture makes people feel good about going to the effort, time and expense. Secondly, make a kind and genuine comment about how you might use it. For example, “This scarf/These socks will keep me warm in the winter” or “This book will be useful on my plane ride to Mexico this summer!” If you can’t think of how you would use the item, it is always good to say, “This is special to me because it came from you” or “Thank you so much for remembering me today.” There is no need to go overboard and say, “This is the best No. 2 pencil I’ve ever had in my entire life!”

In our lifetime, we will receive many pairs of socks and books we don’t care for, but we should always remember: No one is required to buy us a present. P.S.: Always follow-up with a short and sweet thankyou card. That way, you will certainly be remembered next year. ✪

Heather Magarian is the owner of Little Miss Manners Charm and Etiquette School for Children. To learn about the school’s summer program, please visit www.lilmissmanners.com or email heathermagarian@yahoo.com.

We receive many gifts we don’t care for, but we should always remember that no one is required to buy us a present. ● ● ● ●

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Health Science Center San Antonio nfamily magazine 29

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child development

A Head Start on Health By offering healthy alternatives to your children’s favorite foods, you can both help them develop good eating habits and battle the disturbing trend of childhood obesity.

t’s no secret that parents can now add concern about childhood obesity to the long list of issues they must face when raising children. The Centers for Disease Control website indicates that “approximately 17 percent (or 12.5 million) of children and adolescents aged 2 to 19 years are obese,” meaning that obesity in children and adolescents has almost tripled since 1980. The reasons behind this disturbing trend are many, but my goal is to combat it by helping you create healthier alternatives to your children’s favorite foods.

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by Suzy Monford As any experienced parent will tell you, the earlier good habits start, the easier it is to maintain them. So when children learn to appreciate healthy, nutritious foods at an early age, they are likely to continue to crave them as they grow into adulthood. Many authors and nutritionists have written about the benefits of shopping and cooking as a family, and one of my current favorites is Michael Pollan’s new book, “Cooked.” In it, he talks about the transformative positive effect on families that comes about when parents and children plan, shop and prepare meals together.

So play restaurant together as a family! Plan the menu themes of the week, make the shopping lists and write the chef schedule. Who’s running the veggie prep station every day? Who’s the sauce maker? Salad chef? Grill master? By putting food front and center, everyone will be happier and healthier. So now, let’s get started by focusing on three types of food that kids of all ages love: pizzas, burgers and chicken tenders. Believe or not, you and your family can continue to enjoy these all-American favorites with a little bit of mindful preparation.

General guidelines for preparing healthy favorites

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Become a label librarian! Read and get to know what’s inside any packaged food. Follow the basics by avoiding ingredients and condiments that have sugar listed in the first three ingredients. Look for only natural preservatives. If you can’t pronounce it, you don’t want to eat it. Buy fresh, live, whole foods for your recipes. That means whole grains, fresh produce, pure oils (for example, olive oil should only have olive oil in it) and lean meats.

Natural and organic are better than most conventional fresh products, unless the food comes from your local farmer’s market or a nearby farm. Simply put, know where your food comes from. The closer, the better for freshness, safety and fostering local artisans.

Frozen or canned (without added salt/sugar/preservatives) ingredients are OK, but usually not as tasty or nutritious as fresh.

Quick healthy chef tips Pizza

➊ Start with 100 percent wholewheat or whole-grain buns. Again, look for clean label without soy flour or added sugar/corn syrup. ➋ Use lean ground meat, 75 percent/25 percent – or better yet, 80 percent/20 percent – whether it be beef, turkey or bison.

➋ Make your own sauce using fresh or canned tomatoes (keeping in mind rule No. 1). Don’t have time to make your own? Purchase ready-made with rule No. 1 in mind.

➍ Make your own meat topping using lean, clean protein like ground chicken, turkey or bison, or the leanest ground beef you can find at the store.

tripled since 1980.

Hamburgers

➊ Buy a whole-grain flatbread or a pizza shell that does not have more than 5 grams of added sugar/corn syrup or soy flour. This maximizes your nutrients and fiber.

➌ Sneak fresh veggies into the sauce by pureeing them in your blender first if your child won’t eat “chunky” sauce.

Obesity in children and adolescents has almost

Chicken tenders

➊ Start with 100 percent fresh breast meat tenders, and dust in your own whole-wheat or wholegrain seasoned flour.

➌ Pile on the veggies. Layer on tomatoes, spinach, bell peppers, cucumbers and peppers, and if you want to do the “lot” like the Aussies, add beet, pineapple and a fried egg. ➍ Use condiments sparingly. Often, it’s the mayo, ketchup and cheese that load the calories without the nutrients.

➋ Bake in the oven rather than fry. You’ll end up with a golden brown, juicy tender that is just as much fun to dip (into ranch made with low-fat Greek yogurt, or low-sugar barbecue sauce) as the fried, high-calorie, low-nutrient, chicken parts version.

Studies have shown that children may need to try a new food anywhere from five to 20 times before they actually like it. So it may take a little patience on your part to continue introducing the same healthy alternatives until your child will eat them without complaint. That patience will pay off in the long run when your child develops good eating habits, maintains a healthy BMI (body mass index) and enjoys the benefits of a balanced diet. Have fun and happy healthy eating! ✪

Suzy Monford is the president of Food Sport International and EZ’s Brick Oven & Grill. She is passionate about helping others in the community lead balanced, healthy lives by creating the revolutionary “EZ Fit Bank” for all EZ’s employees and instructing “Fit Kitchen” programs for the YMCA and San Antonio Sports “Fit Family Challenge,” as well as teaching group exercise classes for Gold’s Gym and the YMCA.

child development

Health for the Whole Family

HealthCrave physician Jennefer Sutton, M.D., talks about her group’s commitment to modern health care. by Alan Carl ● ● ● ●

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edical care is evolving. Gone are the days of the small-town doctor who carried a little bag and spent the day making house calls. And yet, that doesn’t mean you can no longer find friendly, attentive care from a doctor you trust. In fact, at the HealthCrave Primary Care Center, the core mission is to provide patient-centric medical care that utilizes the latest treatments to help ensure entire families remain as healthy as possible. The group is made up of three physicians, all board-certified in the specialty of family medicine. This means they are trained to provide primary care to patients in every stage of life, from newborns to centenarians. It also means their focus is on the wellness of the entire body and mind. From checkups and colds to chronic illnesses and everything in between, they are ready to help. Along with Drs. Michelle Anson and Dora Garcia, Dr. Jennefer Sutton is a physician with the group. Here is what Sutton has to say about HealthCrave.

help a person stay healthy and, in many cases, become happier with themselves and their lives.

Briefly, can you describe the group’s philosophy of patient care?

At HealthCrave, it’s not just about a single appointment or a single prescription; it’s about establishing a long-lasting relationship centered on health and wellness. In this way, I like to think our approach to medicine harkens back to the traditional role of a doctor in the community. We take pride in being both advisers and advocates, assuming an active role in the lives of our patients. Too often, the modern health care system can seem impersonal. We strive to be the opposite of that. Our entire philosophy is based on getting to know our patients well so that we can provide the care they need to live better.

Your website talks a lot about wellness. What does wellness mean to you?

The simplest answer is that wellness is about living well. It’s about being able to get the most out of your life. We help our patients do this in many ways. The most obvious is that if they have an ailment, we recommend treatments and ensure they get the care they need, whether that be prescribing a medication, providing outpatient treatment or sending them to another specialist for a more in-depth evaluation. But just as importantly, we work with our patients to help them prevent ailments from ever arising. We’ll assess risks and, when needed, discuss lifestyle changes that can

“Too often, the modern health care system can seem impersonal. We strive to be the opposite of that.”

Q: A:

So you’re not just there for coughs and colds?

We’re here for coughs and colds and a lot more than that. There’s a lot that goes into keeping the mind and body healthy, and everyone has their own individual needs. That’s why we place such an emphasis on getting to know our patients. There are plenty of places you can go and get, say, a flu shot. But we don’t believe the practice of medicine should be retail-oriented – or that your doctor should be an interchangeable part of the health care system. Yes, we’re here for our patients when they aren’t feeling well. But we’re also here to help our patients do everything they can to avoid feeling bad in the first place. While plenty of ailments can be cured with a single visit, we are here to provide a lot more than a shot.

Q: A:

You mentioned involving other specialists. How does that work at HealthCrave?

Whenever we determine that a patient would be best served by seeing a specialist (cardiologist, oncologist, orthopedist, etc.), we’ll recommend them to a specialist we deeply trust and with whom we have a strong working relationship. We’re fortunate to be part of a larger group of physicians with a wide range of specialties. That means, in many instances, the patient needs to go no further than right down the hall. But whether they remain within our larger group or see a specialist with another group, it’s important to note that the patient isn’t leaving our care. Instead, we’re adding a member to their health care team and we’ll continue to be involved in their care and in any treatment they may require.

Q: A:

What else should patients know about the HealthCrave Primary Care Center?

All three of us are mothers and proud San Antonians. We wouldn’t want to be practicing medicine in any other community. This is a town that values enjoying life. And we want to help mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, babies and grandparents live healthier lives so that they can live fuller lives. That’s why we became doctors.

For more information about HealthCrave, visit www.sahealthcrave.com. For appointments, call 210-438-9355.

Po l anni o San Ant

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child development

Building a Healthy Foundation

Chiropractic: the secret to raising healthy children? by Dr. Sandra Carrell Tremblay

have worked with many parents and their children over the past 28 years, but I often am asked why a child would ever need to see a chiropractor. Chiropractic doctors are the tuneup masters of the spine and nervous system. We study the body to find the primary cause of health conditions and check to see if any nerve dysfunction is present before proceeding with any treatment. Every moment of life, our brain organizes and runs all of our body systems through our nervous system. The brain is connected to the rest of our body by nerve pathways. We are wired with an electrical system that works to keep us well and successfully adapting

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to the stresses of our lives. Our spinal cord, which is comprised of more than one trillion nerves, travels through the center of 24 mobile spinal vertebrae. Smaller branches of nerves exit off of the spine through the working joints of each vertebra and travel to every part of the body. Just like any other complicated piece of machinery, it must be maintained well to work the way it was designed. We, too, work best with regular “tuneups” that keep all the systems of our bodies in a healthy balance. Spinal vertebrae get out of alignment through physical, chemical and mental stresses. Think of your spinal cord and nerves as your own breaker box. If you stress your home’s electrical system by plugging too many electrical devices into one outlet, it is designed to protect itself by flipping that breaker off. The temporary inconvenience of

Although chiropractors do not treat diseases, many conditions improve when the balance of the body is restored. no electricity is better than accidently burning down your house. The system is designed to react this way. Breaker off. No power. Breaker on. Power restored. We have a similar response system. When our body undergoes one of these stresses, the brain reacts by sending additional nerve signals to assess and respond to the perceived problem. This increased level of nerve activity causes the muscles along the spine to reflexively splint in an attempt to protect your body while it assesses the situation. Frequently, however, this tightening is enough to alter spinal alignment, causing subluxations, or misalignment of the vertebrae, which interfere with the function of the exiting spinal nerves. Everyone gets spinal subluxations at one time or another. Chiropractors check the spine for subluxations and make small adjustments that begin the process of realigning the vertebrae, taking pressure off the spinal nerves and restoring normal muscle function. As your body’s communication system is restored, the process of natural healing can begin. Parents frequently tell us that when their children fall, they see symptoms such as a runny nose or earache develop in the next couple of days. We check children’s spines and adjust their spinal subluxations with a gentle touch. As with adults, once proper alignment has been restored and nerves are once again able to transmit healthy signals, children typically regain their usual good health. What’s the connection between falling and these symptoms? The upper cervical (neck) brain stem and nerves are associated with the eye, ear, nose and throat. Remember, our brains are wired to our body by our nerves. Although chiropractors do not treat diseases, many conditions improve when vertebral subluxations are corrected and the balance of the body is restored. Our bodies are amazing and wonderful. You don’t have to be an expert to be healthy. Raising your awareness and developing a system of checks and balances will help you and your children stay healthy. Imagine our health potential if we were tuned up regularly, remaining at our healthiest best. Keep your power turned on! ✪

For parents who want more information, I recommend visiting the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association online at www. icpa4kids.com. It’s a great resource for children’s health. This article was contributed by Sandra Carrell Tremblay, D.C., of the Alamo Heights Chiropractic Health Center.

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OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: ■ Counseling for children, adults and families (including play therapy, testing and assessment, neurofeedback) ■ Training for clergy, religious workers and healthcare professionals. ■ Collaborative community based educational programs.

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Medical Center, 8310 Ewing Halsell Drive San Antonio, TX 78229 P: 210.616.0885 / F: 210.616.0845 / E: mail@ecrh.org nfamily magazine 35

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child development

Food Allergies and Your Kids Knowing the best steps to take if you suspect your child may have a food allergy can help keep your child safe and give you one less thing to worry about. by Dr. Erika Gonzalez-Reyes

ay-to-day parenting already comes with its full set of challenges – from who picks up the kids at daycare to making it to a soccer game or a piano recital on time. With its rising prevalence, many parents have added food allergies to the mix of worries. Food allergies affect about 2 percent of children overall and one in 10 children under the age of 4. Although you can be allergic to almost any food, cow’s milk, eggs, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, fish and shellfish cause the majority of food allergies. They most often begin during the first two years of life, but they can occur at any age and develop even after having ● ● ● ●

36 nfamily magazine

eaten a food many times before without problems. Symptoms of food allergies normally occur within minutes to hours of eating the culprit food and include symptoms such as hives, swelling, wheezing, shortness of breath, vomiting, diarrhea, nausea and abdominal pain. Food allergies can worsen eczema or other skin rashes and lead to severe reactions such as throat swelling, decreased blood pressure, shock and even death. The exact reason some people develop food allergies while others do not is unknown. A food allergy is caused by an abnormal immune response of the body to a certain food, and it is higher in children with other allergy problems such as eczema, asthma and environmental allergies.

Although food allergies have continued to become more common over the last two decades, you can find some comfort in knowing that up to 80 percent of younger children can outgrow their food allergies by the time they are 10 years old. It is most likely to be outgrown if they are allergic to milk or eggs and least likely if they are allergic to peanuts or tree nuts. There is no cure or medication to prevent food allergies, so the goal of treatment is to avoid the food that causes the symptoms. This is best accomplished by carefully reading food labels. In addition to avoidance, children with food allergies are given a prescription for an epinephrine auto-injector to use in case of an accidental ingestion and development of severe symptoms.

Food allergies affect about 2% of children and 1 in 10 children under the age of 4. Children are encouraged to wear a medical alert bracelet that identifies them as food allergic, and all caregivers (school administrators, teachers, friends, coaches, babysitters, etc.) should be informed of a child’s allergies, know how to recognize the symptoms of food allergies and know how to administer lifesaving epinephrine if needed. If you suspect your child may suffer from a food allergy, it is important to avoid that particular food and make an appointment with an allergist, a specialist trained in food allergies. Allergists can help you make the correct diagnosis by taking a thorough clinical history and performing food allergy skin testing or blood testing. They can also offer suggestions on how to successfully avoid these foods in your child’s diet and help you avoid

unnecessary restrictions of other foods, which can put kids at risk for nutritional deficiencies. Avoidance of certain foods in the diet has fortunately become easier over the past five years. Various safe and tasty alternatives are now widely available for children with food allergies. The increased awareness of food allergies has also prompted schools and daycares to take extra precautions to ensure our children’s safety. Newer, more advanced treatment options are currently under investigation, and if proven successful, they will be able to offer all people with food allergies other treatment alternatives, as well as offer parents a little more peace of mind regarding their children’s safety. With more and more children getting diagnosed with food allergies, learning how to recognize the symptoms of food allergies and ways to treat and help avoid reactions is important for everyone to know. While it may be another challenge, together, we can achieve every parent’s primary goal of keeping our children safe – and maybe give parents one less thing to worry about. ✪

Erika Gonzalez-Reyes, M.D., is a board-certified pediatric allergist with a special interest in food allergies. For more information or questions on food allergies or other allergies, contact GonzalezReyes at info@allergysa.com or visit www.allergysa.com.

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special issues

Get Back on Track Have student loans to pay off? Look into some of these newer and lesser-known student loan repayment options. by Samantha Salazar

aying off student loans is no easy task, but there are a lot of repayment options to help borrowers better afford their monthly payment. Here are a few options you may not know about:

Newest Repayment Plan: Pay as You Earn The Pay as You Earn repayment plan became available on Dec. 21, 2012. Pay as You Earn is a revision of the existing Income-Based Repayment Plan (IBR) for federal student loans. There are two major differences between Pay as You Earn and IBR:

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On Pay as You Earn, the monthly payment amount is capped at 10 percent of a person’s discretionary income (instead of 15 percent on IBR). On Pay as You Earn, any remaining debt after 20 years of repayment is forgiven (as opposed to 25 years on IBR).

Through Pay as You Earn, the monthly payment amount takes into account a borrower’s income and family size. If the monthly payment doesn’t cover all accrued interest, the federal government will pay the difference and interest won’t capitalize. Those enrolled in Pay as You Earn can still qualify for 10-year Public Service Loan Forgiveness. Borrowers on Pay as You Earn will need to prove partial financial hardship. Only those with loans taken out on or after Oct. 1, 2007, will be considered, and they must have received a disbursement of a direct loan on or after Oct. 1, 2011. They will also need to submit annual documentation that includes any income or family size changes in order to determine a new monthly payment amount each year. Federal direct subsidized and unsubsidized loans are eligible for Pay as You Earn, as are direct PLUS loans made to students. Any direct consolidation loans that don’t include a Parent PLUS loan are also eligible. ● ● ● ●

38 nfamily magazine

Although deferment and forbearance can help during difficult financial times, they’re not permanent solutions.

Help for Parent PLUS Borrowers

Deferment and Forbearance

Parent PLUS loans often don’t qualify for the same repayment plans as other federal student loans. But sometimes it’s possible to include Parent PLUS loans in a consolidation loan, which may then qualify for Income-Contingent Repayment (ICR). ICR is very similar to IBR. Both repayment plans take into account income and family size and forgive remaining debt after 25 years of repayment. Some differences between the plans are:

Under certain circumstances, borrowers may qualify for deferment or forbearance. Both options postpone repayment of student loans for a set amount of time. Although interest may not accrue on subsidized loans in deferment, interest will accrue on other loans. All loans accrue interest in forbearance. Although deferment and forbearance can help during difficult financial times, they’re not permanent solutions. Borrowers having long-term problems paying their loans should seek help from a student loan professional.

➊ ➋

On ICR, the monthly payment amount is capped at 20 percent of a borrower’s discretionary

income.

Eligible ICR borrowers don’t need to have partial financial hardship.

Parent PLUS loans aren’t eligible for ICR or IBR. However, borrowers whose Parent PLUS loans entered repayment on or after July 1, 2006, may choose to include those loans in one Federal Direct Consolidation loan. This consolidation loan may then qualify for ICR. If borrowers work in public service (for a nonprofit organization or certain government positions), they may also be eligible for 10-year Public Service Loan Forgiveness.

Get Professional Guidance Whether you’re switching repayment plans or consolidating student loans, it’s important to know all of the facts. These options may not be best for your financial situation, and talking to a student loan expert can help you determine which plan is right for you. Get professional help with your college debt in a student loan consultation at nonprofit Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Greater San Antonio (CCCSSA). The CCCSSA-certified consumer credit counselors can help you determine if there are better repayment options you should consider and whether you qualify for a loan forgiveness program. If you’ve defaulted on your student loans, CCCSSA can help you end wage and Social Security garnishments and get your loans out of default and back on track. ✪

For more information, contact CCCSSA at 210-979-4300 or 800-410-2227 (toll-free), or visit them online at www.cccssa.org.

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therapy

Helping Children Cope How parents can nurture their kids through traumatic events, both natural and manmade by Dr. Frank Emmett

he tragic and traumatic events in the world around us come to us and our children in a flood of horrific images via media of all descriptions, whether on television, the car radio on the way to school, the Internet, the daily newspaper or direct observation and involvement. A Category 5 tornado with winds of 200 mph carves a pathway of death and destruction 20 miles long through the plains of Oklahoma, smashing homes, schools, communities and lives in its wake. Terrorists’ bombs rip through a crowd of cheering spectators at the end of the Boston Marathon, indiscriminately killing and maiming not only adults, but also young children. Sandy, a massive Category 2 hurricane, ● ● ● ●

40 nfamily magazine

merges with a frontal system and decimates New Jersey and New York City, killing 285 people in its deadly pathway across seven countries and causing $71 billion in damage in the United States alone. An elementary school in Sandy Hook, Conn., is targeted by a mentally deranged gunman. He shoots his mother and then goes to the school and the children she loved and takes 26 innocents’ lives before taking his own. San Antonio and South Texas are not immune. For many of our children, the daily plague of domestic, gang and drug-related violence is an all too familiar occurrence. Natural disasters in the form of hurricanes and floods occur with regularity. And the most devastating of all: traffic accidents, which took more than 1,100 lives on Texas roads and highways in the first five months of 2013 alone. How many

families and children have mourned the loss of loved ones or been traumatized by their own passive involvement? Children are not immune, and indeed, are very sensitized to the emotional currents in their environments. It has been said that fear (and anxiety) are palpable, and children of all ages pick up on the emotional reactions of the adults around them after a traumatic event. Then they wonder why and worry that they could be the next victim. So what should we do?

First: Define

What is trauma, really? Trauma is most simply defined as hurt or harm. It can be hurt to a person’s body (physical) such as a car accident. It can be harm to a person’s mind (mental) such as fear of losing loved ones or one’s own life. It can be spiritual, a fear of being alone, abandoned and powerless in the face of overwhelming and

catastrophic events. In physical trauma, the body’s autonomic nervous system responds to the threat, real or imagined, of serious injury. In mental trauma, frightening and overwhelming thoughts and feelings may overwhelm the child and produce bizarre behavior patterns, including regression to an earlier state of development and immobilization. The child may withdraw, detach from family and friends, have fitful or no sleep or become hyper-aroused and vigilant in their environment, always scanning for new threats. Flashbacks to the traumatic event itself may occur with a vividness that is paralyzing for the young mind.

Second: Helping our children cope

Our children, by their very natures, tend to be resilient beings, and it is their resiliency upon which we build. The following recommendations for parents and children come from the National Institute of Mental Health. They have been tested in a number of national disasters and in the aftermath of numerous traumatic events. Attend to them: l Listen to them l Accept/do not argue about their feelings l Help them cope with the reality of their experiences

Children are very sensitive, and they struggle to make sense of trauma.

Reduce effects of other stressors: l Frequent moving or changes in place of residence l Long periods away from family and friends l Pressures at school l Transportation problems l Fighting within the family l Being hungry Monitor healing: l It takes time l Do not ignore severe reactions l Attend to sudden changes in behaviors, language or emotional/feeling states Remind children that: love them l Adults support them l Adults will be with them when possible and take care of them, but only if you can be honest l The event was not their fault l It’s OK for them to feel upset l Adults

Do: l Allow children to cry l Allow sadness l Let children talk about their feelings l Let them write about their feelings l Let them draw pictures

Children are very sensitive, and they struggle to make sense of trauma. Parents, don’t: Expect children to be brave or tough l Make children discuss the event before they are ready l Get angry if children show strong emotions l Get upset if they begin: • Bed-wetting • Acting out • Thumb sucking l

If children have trouble sleeping: l Give them extra attention l Let them sleep with a light on l Let them sleep in your room for a short while Try to keep normal routines: Bed-time stories l Eating dinner together l Watching TV together l Reading books, exercising, playing games l

Help children feel in control: Let them choose meals, if possible l Let them pick out clothes, if possible l Let them make some decisions for themselves, when possible l

Parents must identify and address their own feelings. This will allow you to help them and others. Identify children who: l Refuse to go places that remind them of the event l Seem numb emotionally l Show little reaction to the event l Behave dangerously These children need extra help, and the sooner it can be provided, the sooner healing can begin.

Frank Emmett, Ph.D., is the clinical director of the Ecumenical Center for Religion and Health, where he and his senior clinical staff provide outpatient psychotherapy and neurobiofeedback therapy for children, adolescents and adults. In addition, he directs the MindwiseNow psychological assessment program. Emmett also consults with ministers and faith-based institutions on spiritual aspects of counseling and psychotherapy. Visit www.ecrh.org for more information and parenting resources.

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therapy

Beat the Blues

Want to live a happier and healthier life? The right counselor can help you do just that by working with you to heal your mind, body and spirit.

by Bryan Jones

o you find yourself feeling sad or blue. Maybe you’re feeling anxious and don’t know why. You may have one or many symptoms that bother you or have bothered you for some time. First of all, please realize you are not alone and there is help available. Many people bear the burden of extreme stress that leads to emotional and/or behavioral difficulties. When we have a broken arm or a bad cut, we go to the doctor. When we chip a tooth, we go to the dentist. Emotional and behavioral health should be no different for us and our children.

Other times when people don’t seek counseling for emotional or behavioral difficulties, the reason may be not understanding the role, purpose or process of counseling. The role of counseling in your life could be to learn more about yourself and think more clearly so you can make better choices. You may want to take your child to counseling if their behaviors and/or emotions are causing them to miss school or they have other troubling behaviors. Sometimes you may have difficulties in your relationships causing you stress. The role of a counselor should be to help you find resolution to the issues that bother you and/or your family. A good counselor should work with you to find the best choices to reduce or eliminate your symptoms.

If we don’t listen to what our brain tells us, we run the risk of making the situation worse. Our bodies are specifically wired to alert us when we are not in balance. Our brain is an amazingly complex organ. It is designed to tell us what we need. Sometimes we don’t listen to what our body needs and the situation gets worse. One of the reasons people don’t seek counseling when their emotions and/or behavior are out of balance is the fear of being labeled “crazy” or “unstable.” Again, if we don’t listen to what our brain tells us, we run the risk of making the situation worse. ● ● ● ●

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The purpose of counseling is to help heal mind, body and spirit. The relationship you develop with your counselor is a key factor in your healing. In order for true long-lasting change to occur, you must be able to develop a trusting relationship with a qualified counselor. In Texas, there are four main types of “counselors.” At the highest level is the Ph.D. counselor or therapist. The next level is the master-trained counselor. This includes the licensed pro-

fessional counselor, the licensed clinical social worker and the licensed marriage and family therapist. Any of these licensed counselors are qualified to assist you in your journey toward healing. Some of the questions you may have are: How do I choose? Are they all the same? These are common questions most people regularly have. Counselors come in all shapes and sizes, and they typically have wide-ranging and different training. So how do you choose? That takes us to the process of counseling. The process of counseling is what happens in the session with the counselor. In order to choose which counselor is right for you, you must feel comfortable initially. At your initial appointment, ask them what training they have. If the counselor is talking more than you, they are spending less time listening to you and your concerns. There should be an 80/20 split between who is speaking. You should be speaking 80 percent of the time, and the counselor should be speaking about 20 percent of the time or less. What happens in a counseling session? This may vary depending on the type of treatment you or your loved one needs. Most counselors will at least begin with talk therapy. It may seem a bit like an interview. This is the assessment part of the session.

After the assessment is complete, the counselor will likely work with you to prioritize which issue you want to tackle first. This is typically considered the treatment planning phase. The counselor may offer you several treatment options, and they should be able to help you decide which one has the best opportunity to create the change you desire. Important note: If you don’t like the counselor you are with, don’t give up on counseling. Find another one who will meet your needs. There are many well-trained, well-qualified and helpful counselors to choose from. Finally, don’t let the stigma of counseling keep you from getting the help you need to have a happier and healthier life. The St. Peter – St. Joseph Children’s Home Counseling Center stands ready to assist you in your journey toward improved emotional and behavioral health for you and your family. We do not turn anyone away if they can benefit from our services. Give us a call at 210-533-1203 to book an appointment and begin your journey to heal mind, body and spirit today. ✪

Bryan Jones is a licensed clinical social worker and the assessment and treatment center manager for St. PJ’s. For more information, call 210-533-1203 or email bjones@stpjhome.org.

Shine

She’S achieved So much already, but that doeSn’t SurpriSe you.

becauSe

you’ve

alwayS

known

She

would

excel.

becauSe you believed in her. you have

Faith in her and her ability to go Far. and when She arriveS here, we Further her potential. becauSe we believe in her. we alSo See all that She can become and work to nurture her through Faith-baSed learning and Shared belieFS rooted in SiSterhood, enSuring She not only SucceedS at college, but leaveS with the Faith to move mountainS.

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Member of the UIW Brainpower Connection

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faith

A Prayer for the Pope St. Francis of Assisi Church prays for Pope Francis, the new pope who seems to have more than just a nominal connection to its patron saint. by Sr. Rose Kruppa

ike so many of you, I am sure I will always remember where I was when I first heard the word of a new pope. I received a text message indicating that there was white smoke and the cardinals had elected a new pope. The same announcement traveled down the halls of the parish office, and several of us gathered to watch the breaking news on television. None of us had paid much attention to the names that had been bantered back-and-forth by the news media. Parish life had been quite focused on the many varied activities that are our priorities right now. When the new pope finally appeared on the balcony, the pure white garment and the very simple cross he wore were most obvious to me. When I heard he was from Argentina and that his name is Francis, my heart literally leapt. He is Francis, like our St. Francis of Assisi – the one who loved all of God’s creations inclusively and without exception. The one who heard God’s call to rebuild the church. The one who loved the poor profoundly and who lived to serve others. The one who encouraged his band of followers to love each other and to be a community.

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And then seeing Pope Francis standing so humbly before the throngs of people gathered in St. Peter’s Square, before the faithful, as well as the curious, and hearing his first greeting gave me more evidence of his connection to St. Francis. He asked for a silent blessing from all who had gathered before he himself blessed the crowd. I truly felt like I was there in person. I loved the mutuality, the respect for the people and the humility. As a parishioner of St. Francis of Assisi, I could not be more excited and touched by the name our new pope has chosen. We immediately feel closer to this man, now our shepherd, simply because he chose a name that means so much to us. We have already come to know this Francis in more ways. Pope Francis himself tells the story of the choice of his name. He was comforted by his friend, Brazilian Cardinal Claudio Hummes, as it appeared that the voting was favoring him and it seemed “a bit dangerous” that he would reach the two-thirds necessary to be elected. “He hugged me. He kissed me. He said, ‘Don’t forget about the poor,’” Francis recalled. “And that’s how in my heart came the name Francis of Assisi.” St. Francis of Assisi, the pope said, was “the man of

“Let us not forget that hatred, envy and pride defile our lives. We must not be afraid of goodness or even tenderness.”

✝ the poor. The man of peace. The man who loved and cared for creation. And in this moment, we don’t have such a great relationship with the creator – the man who gives us this spirit of peace, the poor man who wanted a poor church.” Thanks to social media, we witnessed Pope Francis living the words we hear so often from St. Francis: Preach the gospel always; if necessary, use words. Pictures of Pope Francis riding the bus with his cardinal electors, checking out of the hotel and paying his own bill, continuing to wear the same simple white garb, greeting the people and blessing the animals – all of this reminds us more and more of our Francis, whom we emulate as our patron saint. Other impressions are being created every day as we listen to Pope Francis in his own words – words that come from homilies, meetings with the media and greetings to visitors. “Today, too, amid so much darkness, we need to see the light of hope and to be men and women who bring hope to others. Please,” he said to them, adopting a direct tone and offering a clear signal of his own ambitions for his papacy. “I would like to ask all those who have positions of responsibility in economic, political and social life, and all men and women of goodwill: Let us be ‘protectors’ of creation, protectors of God’s plan inscribed in nature, protectors of one another and of the environment. Let us not forget that hatred, envy and pride defile our lives. We must not be afraid of goodness or even tenderness.” We pray for Pope Francis. We pray to St. Francis. We pray that love of the poor, mercy and tenderness, love of all God’s creations and collaborative efforts at rebuilding the church become more and more our way of life – our life of discipleship. ✪

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St. Francis of Assisi Church is located at 4201 De Zavala Road, San Antonio, Texas 78249. For more information, visit www. stfrancissa.com. nfamily magazine 45

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faith

“A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit saps a person’s strength.”

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How to Make a

Really Fas t Sli de Allowing the simple things in life to put a smile back on your face and serve as medicine for your soul by Chris Emmitt

have to tell you about a conversation I overheard at our house the other day. If you are a parent, I think you will relate. And if you don’t relate, let’s pretend you do so I don’t feel like a bad parent. It was a typical Saturday; it was a beautiful day outside, and we were all at the house enjoying a lazy afternoon. Then I heard our 5-year-old enthusiastically shouting about something his 3-year-old brother did. “Hey mom!” he yelled. “Guess what? David is a genius!” My wife look perplexed. Sentences like that rarely lead to something we adults believe to be “genius.” She asked, “What did he do that was so genius?” Now, Daniel is our oldest. He is the typical compliant first-born and a great older brother. David, however, is our middle child, and he has been known to do things that, well, middle children tend to do. He is happy-go-lucky, he lives on the edge and he would rather ask for forgiveness than permission. Having said that, the next sentence out of his big brother’s mouth was not as shocking to us as it probably should have been. “David figured out that if you pee on the slide, it makes the fastest water slide in the whole world!” Daniel proclaimed.

“Ohhhhh …” Bre’anna said as she held in her laughter. “He did, did he?” Bre’anna and I looked at each other, trying to hide our laughter and be responsible adults. As adults, I think our natural tendency is to get wound way too tightly. We are worried, hurried, stressed, overwhelmed, overworked, under-slept and under pressure. I get it; I’m a parent, too. It’s easy to allow “life” to weigh us down, sap our strength and kill our joy in the little things. There is a Proverb in the Bible that says this: “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a broken spirit saps a person’s strength” (Proverbs 17:22 NLT 2nd Ed.). It’s almost as if the writer were living in the 21st century, isn’t it? What makes your heart cheerful? What brings you joy? What gives you strength? And equally important, what saps it? For my wife and me, one of life’s greatest joys is watching our kids grow up, experience life and learn about the world around them. I know your life is stressful, I know you are tired and I know it is easy to allow both stress and lack of sleep to sap your strength. But imagine with me for a minute if for just one day, you decided to focus on the things in life that make your heart cheerful. Imagine if you allowed the silly things your kids do to bring back a smile

to your face. Imagine how great a medicine that could be. My hope is this: that just maybe you will get back to enjoying the life you have been given, look for the simple joys that put a smile on your face and allow your cheerful heart to be medicine for your soul. But if none of that happens, at least you can rest in the fact that you now know how to make a really fast slide. ✪

Chris Emmitt is a pastor at Community Bible Church, and Bre’anna Emmitt is a stay-at-home mom, as well as a freelance writer. You can connect with them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Also, look for Chris’ sermons at www.communitybible.com and Bre’anna’s blog at www. sozowomen.com.

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fitness

Camps of Character The San Antonio Spurs and Silver Stars offer summer fitness and fun for all ages at their annual summer basketball camps. by Dustin York Sr.

or aspiring young basketball players, who better to teach the basics of the game than an organization known for mastering the fundamentals? Each summer for the past 30 years, Spurs Sports & Entertainment has invited children of all ages from the community to take part in weeklong basketball camps. The Spurs and Silver Stars Basketball Camps are a great option for young basketball players of all skill levels who are looking to improve over the summer. There is a camp to suit all needs from the ● ● ● ●

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child who is just discovering basketball to the teenager who wants to take his or her game and skill set to the next level. We have a camp for everyone. But campers learn more than how to play the game during their week at camp. Spurs and Silver Stars Basketball Camps strive to be camps of character. Not only do the camps aim to improve the basketball skill level, but NBA and WNBA players and coaches and the camp staff work to teach sportsmanship and Spurs Sports & Entertainment’s core values to each camper. It is a camp goal, year after year, that

campers leave not only as better basketball players, but also as better people, taking what they have learned back to their homes and schools. Serving as camp director for 26 years, Nevil Shed, former NBA player and Basketball Hall of Fame inductee, has seen firsthand the family affair that is the Spurs and Silver Stars Basketball Camps. “Many of our coaches today were campers themselves years ago,” Shed said. “And those coaches now have their own children going through the camps. The theme of family is important to the success of our camps.”

This year, boys and girls ages 7 to 14 have nine different camps to choose to attend, ranging from full-day sessions to overnight camps. There are also camps hosted by Danny Green and Kawhi Leonard, as well as a Silver Stars camp specifically for young ladies looking to improve their skills and learn from WNBA players. All skill levels are welcome, but those looking to build on a solid foundation of basketball skills should consider Elite Week. Elite Week begins July 1 and is offered to boys and girls ages 14 to 18 who want to advance their game to the next level. Camps begin as early as June 10 and run through Aug. 9. Sessions range from boys only and girls only to co-ed camps. All of the camps take place at either the University of the Incarnate Word or the George Gervin Youth Center. “Spurs and Silver Stars Basketball Camps are great options

for kids during the summer,” Shed said. “These kids learn something when they are having fun, and at the end of the day, that is what we are all about: teaching kids in a way that speaks to them, while providing a safe environment for them to grow.” This year, our camp sponsor, Ashley Furniture, graciously offered camp scholarships for select camp sessions. Ashley Furniture awarded scholarships to campers who were interested in attending a session, but needed financial assistance to do so. ✪

Anyone interested in signing up for a camp session can call the Basketball Camp Hotline at 210444-5623 to speak with someone and register by phone. Those interested can also visit www. spurs.com and enter the keyword, “CAMPS,” to learn more or register for the camp that suits their needs.

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fitness

Eliminating Excuses

The City of San Antonio’s Parks & Recreation Department allows San Antonians to get healthy and stay active without breaking the bank with the Fitness in the Park program. Special to NFamily ith obesity having reached epidemic levels and a rise in related illnesses such as heart disease, stroke and diabetes, it’s no surprise that making time to stay physically active and healthy has become an important focus in today’s society. Today, close to 50 million Americans are members of fitness centers or clubs, part of a $21 billion industry. Whether it’s joining a gym or trying the latest diet craze, staying fit can be expensive. The average cost of a gym

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membership is around $45 a month, not to mention additional charges for enrollment or extra specialty classes. This is one reason many are turning toward the growing trend of taking part in more running, “athome fitness” programs and other low-cost and free fitness solutions. The City of San Antonio has an alternative for those looking to make a healthy change without breaking the bank. The City’s Parks & Recreation Department’s Fitness in the Park program offers fitness and exercise classes in all areas of the city at no cost.

The program, in collaboration with the Mayor’s Fitness Council, is offered in various locations throughout San Antonio and open to anyone who has a desire to get in shape, regardless of fitness level or experience. Through partnerships with volunteers and fitness organizations from around the city, Fitness in the Park offers a wide range of classes, including zumba, yoga, aerobics, boot camp fitness sessions, cross-training, walking groups, youth fitness classes and more. Classes take place six days a week in parks and community centers, which make

these free offerings accessible to just about everyone. All classes are taught by qualified exercise instructors who are dedicated to making San Antonio a healthier community. “There are no more excuses,” says Community Services Supervisor Travis Davey, who was recently hired to oversee the Fitness in the Park program. “Free fitness classes are being offered by qualified instructors all over town. There is no registration required. You just have to show up, sign in and workout. It’s really that simple.” The program even offers classes the whole family can attend together such as Family

Friendly Yoga, Trail Hiking and several walking groups. Attending these classes with family or friends is a great way to spend quality time together, model healthy living habits and get a great workout. Part of the appeal of group exercise outside in a park is getting away from the ordinary surroundings the gym offers. “An important part of maintaining a workout routine is making it feel like you’re not working out,” Davey says. “When you enjoy working out, it feels more like a night out on the town with friends and less like a chore. Why pay to go to the gym when you can come

“There is no registration required. You just have to show up, sign in and workout. It’s really that simple.”

out to a beautiful park and have just as rewarding of an experience for free?” With new classes being added to the schedule each month, Fitness in the Park continues to expand in both the variety of classes offered and new locations in San Antonio. More than 5,000 people attended classes in 2012, and due to the great response from the community, that mark has already been surpassed in 2013. In addition to the Fitness in the Park program, San Antonio’s park system has recently added outdoor fitness equipment stations in 30 parks, meaning you can get a workout every day without ever having to pay for another fitness membership again. ✪

For a complete listing of ongoing Fitness in the Park classes or for more information about the San Antonio Parks & Recreation Department, visit www. sanantonio.gov/parksandrec or call 210-207-3000. You can also get updates on Fitness in the Park and all other San Antonio Parks & Recreation fitness initiatives by following @SAParksfitness on Twitter.

Some Highlighted Classes: SWEAT Boot Camp – Every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at Lou Hamilton Community Center SA Parks Fitness Boot Camp – Every Saturday at 9:30 a.m. at Phil Hardberger Park East Circuit Training – Every Monday at 6 p.m. at Collins Garden Park Family Friendly Yoga – Every Saturday at 10:30 a.m. at Phil Hardberger Park East Family Friendly Yoga – Every Monday at 7 p.m. at Collins Garden Park Crecer Saber, Mover!!! – Every Thursday at 9:30 a.m. at Enrique Barrera Fitness Center Crecer Saber, Mover!!! – Every Tuesday/Friday at 9:30 a.m. at Bertha Almaguer Studio

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fur family

Dog Days of

Summer

From dog parks to pet stores, San Antonio offers many dogfriendly places for you and your canine to have fun and keep cool this season. by Genevieve Allen

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t’s another hot summer in San Antonio. As you gear up to tackle the heat, don’t forget to include your pets. There are many ways to beat the heat with your pup in tow. San Antonio is a dog-friendly city that offers many places for you and your dog to visit together. There are numerous parks and wildlife areas. McAllister Park and Phil Hardberger Park offer miles of trails for hiking and biking, as well as dog parks. If you are looking for a great place to allow your dog to

often share experiences and ideas with each other. There is a sense of community and care. Parks can also provide a place to relax and collect your thoughts. Each dog park is a little different, and finding the one that works best for your family can be exciting. Some sights you might see include dog agility equipment, water fountains, benches, waste bags and receptacles. If dog parks aren’t your pup’s cup of tea, there are other activities to try. San Antonio has many dog-friendly restaurants and bars.

24-Hour Daycare

The River Walk is always an option, but it can be overwhelming if crowded with people. For a special treat for you both, take a trip to the local pet store. Fido can shop for treats, and you can enjoy some AC at the same time. Pet stores often offer training and obedience classes. These classes can be a great time for bonding and growing. Walking and jogging are a great way for you to exercise and drain some energy from your dog. Morning and evening hours are ideal for walks and exercise. Taking a break during the heat of the day will be easier on everyone. People and pets can overheat in this hot weather, but taking advantage of cooler times is safer and more bearable. Always remember to give your dog access to fresh water and shade. It is never a good idea to leave your pet in the car. Even if you are running in the store for a minute, temperatures rise quickly in cars. Explore your canine community! ✪

For more information, please visit http://www.sanantonio.gov/parksandrec/dog_parks.aspx.

P A R E N T I N G EDUCATION

socialize and exercise, check out one of the off-leash dog parks. The city has many off-leash dog parks that are spread out and convenient to everyone. Dog parks are a great place for you and your dog to meet new dogs and people, run free in a fenced in area and join other dog lovers. Most of San Antonio’s dog parks offer two separate fenced-in areas. A small dog park and a large dog park are available for your dog’s needs. This separation allows dogs of different sizes to socialize in a safe manner. There are a few rules you should follow. For a good start, make sure your dog is up to date on vaccines and well mannered. We want our pets to have fun, but we also want to ensure they stay healthy. All dogs should be leashed until they are in the fenced area. Owners are responsible for picking up after their dog and disposing of waste properly. Food and dog treats are not welcome, as they can cause a disturbance. These are some guidelines to keep in mind. Dog parks can be a great experience for the entire family. It is fun for children to meet new dogs and watch their dogs play. Dog owners

EVENTS

advice

Always remember to give your dog access to fresh water and shade.

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fur family

P wz in the City

Ensure the whole family has safe summer fun in the sun by helping your furry friends beat the heat. by Deborah D. Salas

s San Antonians, we are no strangers to the sun. Heck, come summertime, we are on a first-name basis with this scorching star. Triple-digit temperatures are inevitable, and we go the extra mile to escape the rays. But what about our four-legged loves? How can they beat the heat this summer? Well, I’m here to offer some helpful tips and information to make sure you and your furry friends have plenty of (safe) fun in the sun!

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Wet their whistle

Yes, I know; “watering” your pet(s) is a no-brainer. But these days, peoples’ schedules are jam packed, and this simple step in pet care is commonly overlooked. To quench your pet’s thirst and avoid heat strokes this summer, be sure to refresh and/or replenish their water bowls several times a day. If you find yourself in need of one, research and invest in an automatic watering system. Just make sure you continue to do your part and run the occasional test to ensure the fountain is working properly. Signs of heat strokes include (but are not limited to) excessive panting/drooling, rapid breathing, dark or bright red tongue or gums, 104- to 110-degree body temperature, staggering and bloody diarrhea or vomiting. If you suspect a heatstroke, be sure to contact your veterinarian right away.

Mites and fleas and ticks – oh my!

Keep in mind that July and August are documented as the months with the highest flea infestation levels. Though there are many different over-the-counter dips, sprays, shampoos, etc., it’s wise to consult your veterinarian before starting a treatment. If you would rather skip the risk of mixing too much or too many chemicals (example: a flea dip and a fogger with the same chemical ingredient), you could go the natural route by making your own. You can get a plethora of “recipes” by doing a simple “natural flea killer” search on Google, Pinterest or eHow. However, I would still recommend consulting your vet before you lather up your pooch/feline – it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Safe travels

Never leave your pet in the car. Even if it feels cool outside to you and you leave the windows cracked, your car can heat up to 100-plus degrees within minutes. If traveling, be sure your pet’s crate is well ventilated. And your furry one is sure to love you even more if you throw a window shade in just for them.

FREE FITNESS CLASSES NOW ONGOING

These pawz are made for walkin’

Whether you are training for an upcoming 5K or simply going for a stroll, be mindful of the temperature if Fido is tagging along. Hard surfaces like asphalt absorb and hold heat in – easily turning a normallooking sidewalk into a griddle. Not sure when hot is too hot? Here’s a general rule to follow: If it’s too hot for you to stand on with your bare feet, it’s too hot for your pet. Easy enough, right? ✪

That’s it for now, my pet-loving friends! For more information, please contact me at www.pamprdpawz.com or call 210-3206403.

TO VIEW THE CURRENT SCHEDULE VISIT OUR WEBSITE

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July and August are the months with the highest flea infestation levels.

(210) 207-3000 for more information

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arts

Something Greater With its timeless themes and powerful story, “Ragtime,” the summer feature musical at The Playhouse, makes 1906 feel like yesterday. by Daniel Quintero

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heater to me is one of the most magical places on the face of the planet; it’s a cultural experiment of itself. You can go and see these people who come from vastly different places, who have different experiences, and somehow in this twohour time span, we laugh together, cry together, feel together.” Those were the words of Molly Cox, director of “Ragtime,” the summer feature musical for The Playhouse’s 2012-13 season. I sat down with Cox to better understand her vision for “Ragtime” and why this production will be one worth seeing. “Ragtime” takes place in 1906, but the themes of the show – social justice, a yearning for the American Dream and societal and class conflicts – are just as relevant and current as the stories in today’s paper. The plot weaves together the stories of three seemingly different, yet fundamentally similar families: the upper-echelon white

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family of New Rochelle, the outcast African-American family seeking basic liberties and the Eastern-European immigrant family coming to America with the hope for a better life. Although they come from wildly different backgrounds, each family strives for something greater. The show is full of beautifully written music that explores the complex conflicts in the show when speech alone cannot. Although the music is powerful, Cox finds that the story should ultimately prevail: “The story is more important than the music. I’m not approaching this as a musical. I’m approaching this as a straight play with music.” Stories like the one told in “Ragtime” aren’t meant for the stereotypical stuffy, elitist “theatre crowd.” The theater is the perfect place for that incredible, primal, tradition: storytelling. According to Cox, “People go see movies all the time,

“I think if you walked into any classroom or neighborhood association meeting and told the story of ‘Ragtime,’ people would be riveted.” but they don’t go see plays all the time. I think the theater has a really bad rap. The perception is that theatre is for rich, educated and fancy people. I just think we have to redefine what theatre means. It’s not this thing that only the elite can go to. There are so many theaters; San Antonio is filled with theatres! I think that if you walked into any classroom or neighborhood association meeting and started telling the story of ‘Ragtime,’ people would be riveted.” “Ragtime” is meant to spark conversation, and it manages to light that fire while still being incredibly entertaining and immensely enjoyable. After speaking with Cox, I am thoroughly convinced that “Ragtime” will be nothing short of a “magical” experience. The story is timeless, and it spans all generations, backgrounds and persuasions. “Ragtime” is a story of hope and justice, and how the way we treat those labeled “different” shapes the world our children will one day live in. Whether you’re looking for a date night or a family trip to the theater, this show will stay with you on the drive home. “Ragtime” will take you back to 1906, share a great story with you through music and leave you a bit surprised to be back in 2013 when those magical two hours are up. You may just find yourself seeing the musical’s characters in the familiar faces around you. ✪

BY WILLIAM INGE Cellar Theater May 3-26, 2013

William Inge's beautiful story of love, regret, and the courage to pursue one's dreams in 1950's small-town America.

For information

www.theplayhousesa.org or call the box office at

THE

P L AS YA nHAOn tUo Sn i Eo

(210) 733-7258

SUMMER CAMP FORforKIDS Ages 5-18 Camp Creativity: June 10-14 Single Serving Camp: June 17-21 Tech Camp: June 24-28 Acting for Film Camp: July 1-12 Film Production Camp: July 8-19

“Ragtime” runs from July 26 through Aug. 18, 2013, in the Russell Hill Rogers Theater at The Playhouse San Antonio. For more information on “Ragtime” and all Playhouse productions, as well as more insights from Daniel Quintero (aka Daniel The Intern), visit www.theplayhousesa.org. Cutline: Ragtime Director, Molly Cox. Photo courtesy Dwayne Green.

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nonprofit

Breaking the Cycle of Poverty Faith-based nonprofit organization Hill Country Daily Bread Ministries transforms the lives of those in poverty through the love of Jesus Christ. Special to NFamily

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ill Country Daily Bread Ministries (HCDBM) of Boerne would like to introduce you to our mission. We are a faith-based

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nonprofit organization whose mission is to help unite and equip our communities to transform the lives of those in poverty through the love and saving grace of Jesus Christ.

Since the year 2000, we have provided food and basic household necessities and have given hope and comfort to the poor among us through lasting family mentoring relationships. We do that by partner-

ing with more than 70 church outreach ministries and agencies in the Hill Country. HCDBM provides family mentors with food, clothing, diapers, school supplies and children’s books and Bibles to deliver to families in need. Volunteers provide community support and emotional and spiritual guidance to more than 2,000 families – well over 8,000 individuals – in the Hill Country communities. Along with the box of food comes the gift of a long and loving relationship with a family mentor who provides the hands and hearts that come with the “box.” Our Stand By Me mentoring program is a faith-based community program targeting at-risk students and developing long-term mentoring relationships that includes educational success, social development and spiritual support. HCDBM is providing one-on-one Christian mentors for at-risk youth in the BISD service area. In addition to these core programs, we also provide back-to-school clothing, the Christmas gift program, “Birthday In A Box” and Easter baskets for children, and we distribute “cook at home” Thanksgiving meals to thousands. We link families to other valuable community services, as well. In all, HCDBM is much more than a program to deliver one box of food for one day. This is a program that is holistic in its approach and targets families and at-risk children who are trapped in generational and situational poverty. Every day, food and supplies from across the United States come to the warehouse in Boerne. Hundreds of volunteer staff sort and pack inventory. Every week, our ministry partners come to the warehouse to pick up the boxes to deliver to the families they mentor. We are the catalyst that administers programs and mobilizes and trains our churches and our volunteers. Our goal is to help the family move from dependence and need to independence and wholeness through Jesus Christ. We currently assist rural individuals and families from Kendall, Kerr, Northern Bexar, Comal, Bandera, Uvalde, Medina and Gillespie counties in the Texas Hill Country area from our 12,500-square-foot warehouse. Join us in the mission of breaking the cycle of poverty in the Texas Hill Country. ✪

Volunteers provide community support and emotional and spiritual guidance to more than 2,000 families in the Hill Country.

The Cyr Charitable Foundation is a proud and dedicated sponsor for HCDBM all year long. Note: This article was provided courtesy of HCDBM.

Po l anni o San Ant

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Phone: 210.949.1212 Fax: 210.949.1217 nfamily magazine 61

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events

Summer Family Fun

Enjoy your summer in the San Antonio area by treating the whole family to any – or all – of these fun ways to beat the heat.

Photo by: David Frank

Tuesdays through Fridays Jams Bouncers Jumpalooza Come “Jumpalooza” with us in our indoor moonwalk arena. Our open jump will get your child moving and jumping inside the moonwalks, promoting health and fitness for the child. Since open jump is so much fun, children will not even realize they are getting a workout during their time here. Jumpalooza runs Tuesdays through Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The cost is $7 plus tax per child aged 2 to 12, and $4 plus tax for children under 24 months and up to 1 year. For more information, visit 7575 Highway 87E in China Grove, Texas, or call 210-364-3043. www.jamsbouncers.com

the pirate plans for mutiny, he discovers he must pick a side, forcing him to grow up and do the right thing. Climb aboard and experience the tale that became the model for all of the pirate films that followed. Join us at the Magik Theatre for showings on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m., Fridays at 7 p.m., select Fridays at 10:30 a.m. and select Saturdays at 2 p.m. Call 210227-2751 for more information. www.magictheatre.org

Tuesdays in July & August Free Tuesdays at the Witte Join us on July 2, 9, 23 and 30, and Aug. 6, 13, 20 and 27, from 3 to 8 p.m. for Free Tuesdays at the Witte Museum. www.wittemuseum.org June 26 – July 27 “Treasure Island” Set sail on the high seas with the original pirate story about a boy, Jamie Hawkins, who is taken by a band of pirates in search of lost treasure. When Jamie learns of

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July 3 & 4 38th Annual Schertz Jubilee In Schertz, it’s never too early to celebrate freedom! Join the City of Schertz Parks & Recreation Foundation for South Texas’ most established

Fourth of July celebration, the 37th Annual Schertz Jubilee, brought to you by HE-B, Walker Partners, Bexar Waste and Schertz Bank & Trust. Join us for two days of fun at Pickrell Park on FM 1518. www.visitschertz.com

July 4 – 8 Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus Join us at the AT&T Center in July for the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. www.ringling.com

July 4 SeaWorld Fourth of July Celebration SeaWorld will celebrate Independence Day on the Fourth of July with a fabulous fireworks display over Ski Lake. The best way to view the fireworks is from a seat in Ski Stadium. Come early for family fun and entertainment! www.seaworldparks.com July 4 & 5 Six Flags Fiesta Texas Liberty of Lights Come out to the park on July 4 and 5 for stunning fireworks, thrilling rides, award-winning entertainment and summer fun for the entire family. Six Flags Fiesta Texas will be open from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. both days. www.sixflags.com

July 5 & Aug. 3 MarketPlace at Old Town Helotes Saddle up and get ready for the MarketPlace at Old Town Helotes! Music, food and a good time are served up, and local craftsmen fill Helotes with treasures from across South Texas. Coming to town the first Saturday of every month, the MarketPlace is located in the heart of Old Town Helotes near the historic Floore Country Store and scenic Helotes Creek. Jewelry, arts and crafts, fresh produce and one-of-a-kind pieces will be on display. Additionally, local boutiques open their doors and offer visitors a taste of Old Town Helotes! Gates open at 10 a.m. and close at 5 p.m., so gather the kids and come down to Old Town for an afternoon of

Aug. 3 & 4 Dog Days of Summer Bring the whole family out to the San Antonio Botanical Garden for Dog Days of Summer. Call 210-207-3250 for more information. www. sabot.org

through a blind tasting with a panel of experts who will help guide you through a palate of flavors. After getting a taste of this event, it will be easy to see why this occasion is in such high demand. The first session is at 1 p.m., and the second is at 3 p.m. www. culinariasa.org

Photo by: David Frank

fun. MarketPlace proceeds benefit community activities functions within the city of Helotes. www.helotes-tx.gov

July 11 & Aug. 8 Concert Under the Stars Join us at the San Antonio Botanical Garden for concerts under the stars. Call 210207-3250 for more information. www.sabot.org July 12 San Antonio Silver Stars vs. Washington Mystics Watch the San Antonio Silver Stars take on the Washington Mystics at 7 p.m. at the AT&T Center. www.wnba. com/silverstars July 16 & Aug. 20 San Antonio Children’s Museum Free Kids Night On July 16 and Aug. 20, adults and children get into the San Antonio Children’s Museum free of charge from 5 to 7 p.m.! www.sakids.org July 25 San Antonio Silver Stars vs. NY Liberty Watch the San Antonio Silver Stars take on the NY Liberty at the AT&T Center at 11:30 a.m. www.wnba.com/silverstars Aug. 3 VANS Warped Tour ‘13 VANS Warped Tour is returning to the AT&T Center on Saturday, Aug. 3, 2013. www. attcenter.com

Aug. 9 – Sept. 21 “Seussical The Musical” One of the Magik Theatre’s favorite musicals, this show tells the tale of Horton, an elephant who discovers a speck of dust containing Whos, including Jojo, a Who child sent off to military school for thinking too many “thinks.” Don’t miss a show about the power of friendship, loyalty, family and community, set to a beautiful and lively score. Showtimes are Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m., Fridays at 7 p.m. and select Saturdays at 2 p.m. (Beginning Sept. 6, the school-year schedule will resume, with 9:45 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. performances Tuesday through Friday.) Call 210-227-2751 for more information. www.magictheatre.org Aug. 10 Culinaria Rambling Rosé Becker Vineyards, the nationally recognized winery, sets the stage for an afternoon that’s perfect for the end of the summer. Rambling Rosé attendees are given the opportunity to sample some wonderful rosé wines, including one from Becker Vineyards. Experience the wines

Aug. 17 – 24 Culinaria Restaurant Week Restaurant Week celebrates food at all of our local restaurants! It is a cross section of the San Antonio culinary scene that encompasses a diverse range of cuisines and includes some of our most time-honored restaurants and buzz-worthy newcomers. The experience gives visitors and residents the opportunity to experience the quality, variety and hospitality that embody the San Antonio dining experience. Bon appétit, San Antonio! (Reservations aren’t required, but they are a good idea! Call the restaurants directly to book reservations.) www.culinariasa.org Aug. 23 Loretta Lynn at the Majestic Theatre A true icon of country music and American culture, Loretta Lynn, also known as the Coal Miner’s Daughter, celebrated the 50th anniversary of her debut single in 2010. A member of the Country Music Hall of Fame, a fourtime Grammy honoree and a recipient of the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Lynn began her career with

the 1960 success of her debut single, “I’m a Honky Tonk Girl.” The event launched a musical legacy that has included 16 No. 1 singles, including such classics as “One’s on the Way,” “Don’t Come Home A-Drinkin’ (With Lovin’ on Your Mind)” and her signature song, “Coal Miner’s Daughter.” The show starts at 8 p.m. www.majesticempire.com Aug. 31 & Sept. 1 SeaWorld Labor Day Fireworks Celebration End your summer with a bang at this holiday celebration on Aug. 31 and Sept. 1. Share the excitement with your family at our fireworks display over SeaWorld’s Ski Lake. Come early for live music and appearances by some of SeaWorld’s favorite characters. www.seaworldparks.com

Sept. 6 San Antonio Zoo Run Relay The San Antonio Zoo Run Relay is an eight-mile distance run (four-member teams and two miles per runner). The run goes from 6 to 8 p.m. and costs $35 (to be paid on race day). www.sazoo.org Sept. 7 San Antonio Kids’ Zoo Run Join us at the San Antonio Zoo’s 29th Animal Kids’ Zoo Run from 6 to 9 p.m. www. sazoo.org

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DANNY GREEN CAMP June 24-28

KAWHI LEONARD CAMP July 29-August 2

7 OTHER SPURS

CAMP SESSIONS

(June-August)