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February 2016 Issue

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February 2016 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261

Note From The Publisher

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The Month Of Love & Community

ear Welcome Home Readers, Thank you for picking up the February edition of our paper. This month is always a great time of year and with Valentine’s Day around the corner, it’s perfect for spending time with your loved ones and showing them what they mean to you. We are blessed to live in a beautiful city with so many options for celebrating special occasions and holidays. There are so many romantic restaurants and venues to visit, as well as our beautiful Riverwalk and scenic Hill Country.

Within this edition of Welcome Home, you will find some wonderful ideas to get you in the mindset of the Valentine’s season. Groomer’s Seafood is having some great specials all month long that are sure to be a hit with the family or that special someone. You can find out more on page 16 and see what Tanji has to say about February culinary trends. If you’re special someone is a furry friend in need of some pampering, you should visit our friends over at Camp Bow Wow. Be sure to let them know you found them in the Welcome Home Newspaper!

If the food and celebrating doesn’t have you feeling like a hopeless romantic, turn to page 11 to read about new found love.

We had a fantastic story that was submitted about men and women finding love all over again, even as retired seniors!

I want to share a special event which happened to our family. On one of the rare cold nights in January, our Yorkie, Mini, managed to escape from our front yard.

When we realized it, we immediately began to search for her. Mini only weighs about 3 pounds and we knew with the weather time was of the essence. We had been searching all over our neighborhood for about 3 hours when we found someone who had rescued our Mini and taken her to Petsmart. I can’t tell you the range of emotions our family went through that night. We are so thankful that we live in a community which takes time out of their busy schedule to help rescue a lost dog. It is so humbling to know we live in a city that has such a strong sense of community. I have always loved San Antonio and this is just one more reason why.

As always, thank you for all the submissions we received. We have so many wonderful children in our areas to be recognized each and every month. If you have a successful business that is not currently looking to advertise, consider sponsoring a school page for the many different groups to be recognized. As a member of our community, remember to visit the businesses in this newspaper and let them know you saw them in your Welcome Home.

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On The Cover

By Stefanie Young ebruary is always a great time of year and with Valentine’s Day around the corner, it’s perfect for spending time with your loved ones and showing them what they mean to you. All across the United States and in other places around the world, candy, flowers and gifts are exchanged between loved ones, all in the name of St. Valentine.

Maybe you will visit the Riverwalk, the Hill Country or the Tea Gardens with your loved one and enjoy the scenic options San Antonio has to offer. Whatever you decide to do, we hope you have a happy and healthy holiday while taking the time to acknowledge those closest to you.

February is also a month of purification. The holidays have passed, the trees have shed their leaves and resolutions are at hand. Many members of our community will focus on simple living, prayer, and fasting while observing lent. Hopefully the Valentine’s season won’t be too stressful and you’re able to find peace of mind this month.

Here at Welcome Home we will be taking

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the time to reflect on our goals, simplifying them and remembering those who have helped us along the way while wiping away the unnecessary worries of January. Thank you again to all our submitters and we hope to hear from you before the March edition, and lastly, we would like to wish everyone a Happy Valentine’s day!

Family Life

Texas Means RODEO!

By Debby Seguin

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t’s time to confess. I am not a native Texan, and although I love almost everything about Texas, there are a few things that have taken some “gittin’ used to”. Tamales for Christmas, sweating in December and jalapeno ice-cream to name a few. But soon, a favorite, long-standing Texas tradition will be here again. And (to quote Garth Brooks) they call it ro-de-o.

For a transplanted Yankee, there are a few things about this event that are a little hard to understand. It all starts with a “Cowboy Breakfast”. What makes this a cowboy breakfast is that they call it a cowboy breakfast. It is served in a big parking lot at about 5:30 a.m. Now who would not want to be a part of that!? (Hello?! Anyone with kids and a job…) But you watch the news and there they all are, and not a one of ‘em a cowboy. Go figure.

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Then there are the Trail Riders, a large group who ride horses for several days to get here in time for the rodeo. What are they? Amish? Actually, it did initially seem rather alluring in a “been reading too many romance novels” kind of way. You know, “saddle up, move ‘em out”, singing by the campfire sort of thing? Until I realized there were no hitching posts at the front of the Embassy Suites.

Then there is the rodeo itself, which appears to be merely a series of concerts, interrupted occasionally by sawdust, horse poop and Gabby Hayes look-a-likes. But any true Texan knows it is really sawdust, horse poop and Gabby Hayes look-a-likes interrupted occasionally by a concert or two. Perhaps my attitude is a bit skewed, but being a city-gal, the closest I ever came to anything “rodeo-like” was being run over by the pony cart driver at our school carnival. So going to the rodeo every year (my sworn duty as the mother of 3 Texans) is quite a traumatic event. We travel from funnel cake stand to funnel cake stand until I hear a whinny or a neigh, which causes me to spontaneously tuck-and-roll. To all this, add carnival rides and scandalously overpriced (and dare I say it, not health inspected) food and it looks remarkably like a county fair!

So why do I go? Well, 1) it’s a part of my children’s history, 2) after 30 years, I am still trying to prove I am worthy of being a Texan, and 3) those funnel cakes are fabulous!

Debby Seguin (who ironically has a daughter who now lives on a RANCH) can be reached at deborah.seguin@comalisd. org.

February 2016 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261

Five Tips For Preparing For AP Exams This Spring

By Steve Johnson, Owner of College Nannies + Tutors pring time is just around the corner, bringing with it blooming flowers, warm sunshine, and AP testing. One of these activities requires active preparation.

With these few tips, a great score on the AP exam is within reach.

Start preparing early The AP exam is meant to test your knowledge on an entire year’s worth of material, so you can’t leave studying until the night before the test. By looking over old notes and graded tests early in the class and throughout the second semester, you will familiarize yourself with the content you will be tested on.

Use practice materials Bookstores, libraries, and classrooms are filled with guidebooks about how to study for the AP exam and what is to be expected on these exams. Take advantage of the content they provide and the advice they have. Practice, practice, practice!

Study in groups or with a tutor Conveniently located in your AP class is a group of people who will also need to study for the AP exam. Get a group together and quiz each other, discuss notes and tests, make flash cards, and look over material.

Additionally, working one-on-one with a tutor on test preparation has many benefits, such as individual attention and advice

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from people who have taken similar exams.

Meet with your teachers Your AP course instructors are great sources of advice for preparation. After all, they are the ones that are teaching you the material. Meet with them to discuss what information you should be studying, what past tests have looked like, and where to find extra preparation material.

Practice with former AP exams The College Board website provides practice questions and material from old AP exams. Some of the content requires you to create a free College Board account. The information is extremely helpful, especially coming from the source of the tests.

Passing these important exams is something you can accomplish with dedication and a little bit of help. Use your resources, pay attention in class, and above all, don’t let yourself get too stressed out.

To learn more about one-on-one tutoring services, contact the staff at College Nannies + Tutors. Our experienced tutors can help you study and prepare for your upcoming AP exams this spring so that you can walk into test day with confidence. Learn more at collegetutors.com or call 210-202-0303.

San Antonio Symphony To Perform Raiders Of The Lost Ark

Submitted By Laura Hernandez Aplin n February 19, 2016 at 8 p.m. and February 20, 2016 at 7:00 p.m. at the Majestic Theatre, audiences of all ages can experience Raiders of the Lost Ark, a classic film from master director Steve Spielberg, starring Harrison Ford as Indiana Jones. John Williams’ Academy Award-winning score will be performed live by the San Antonio Symphony in sync with the full feature film projected on a huge HD screen.

The film that gave the world one of its greatest movie heroes, Indiana Jones, starring Harrison Ford, is celebrating its special 35th anniversary. Come along for the ride and relive the magic on the silver screen with the original great adventure.

The year is 1936, and professor of archeology and “obtainer of rare antiquities” Indiana Jones (Harrison Ford) is tasked by U.S. Army Intelligence to recover the legendary Ark of the Covenant before it falls into the hands of the Nazis.

Indy’s quest takes him to Nepal and Egypt, reuniting him with an old friend (John Rhys-Davies), an old foe (Paul Freeman), and an ex-flame (Karen Allen) who falls somewhere in between. Armed with his hat, whip and wits, our intrepid hero must face formidable enemies – and impossible odds – to save the day and the world.

Tickets are on sale now. Adult tickets start from $25 and children are half off.

Moviegoers can purchase tickets online at

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The Indiana Jones Raiders premiere. Photo credit: 21st Century Productions & KKL Lucerne.

Ticketmaster.com or by calling (800) 7453000, or visiting their nearest Ticketmaster location or the Majestic Theatre Box Office located at 224 East Houston Street.

About the San Antonio Symphony The San Antonio Symphony is a nonprofit performing arts organization with the mission to inspire and enrich our community by vigorously influencing the artistic fabric of San Antonio through excellent symphonic performance, education and service. The San Antonio Symphony, with more than 70 professional musicians, serves over 130,000 people per year including 45,000 students.

Visit www.sasymphony.org to sign up for the email newsletter or request to be added to the distribution list by emailing tickets@sasymphony.org. Follow The San Antonio Symphony on Twitter at @sasym, Instagram @sasymphony and Facebook San Antonio Symphony for updated news and information.

Vision Source is the nation’s premier network of independent doctors of optometry with more than 4,000 doctors in over 2,000 practices across the United States and Canada. Each Vision Source practice is dedicated to maintaining the special relationship between a patient and his or her family eye doctor. Decisions regarding your eye health and vision correction are made by your Vision Source doctor based upon what’s best for your continued good vision. We are proud of our team and we emphasize the importance of customer service with every encounter.

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February 2016 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261

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Andropause, Male Menopause, May Cause Severe Symptoms

By Donna Becker, D.O. Enhancement of Life (210) 545-5224 any times the husband comes to me at the urging of his wife. Arms folded, grim expression, “My wife thinks I need to be checked”. In the 15 minute free pre-visit, I tell them about what I do: “I am a numbers person. I measure 3 pages of labs and those values drive treatment”. I explain that their urologist will do the examination of the prostate, but I will closely evaluate labs ranging from vitamin levels, markers of potential stroke and heart attack, as well as hormones and the standard labs. “Look, I work for you. I

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provide information and together we think what ‘shall we do’ with this information.”

Men’s testosterone gradually declines, usually about 1% per year after age 40. Men also make estradiol, a female hormone, from the conversion of testosterone. So when testosterone declines, so does estradiol. A common practice in the men’s testosterone clinics is to prescribe a medication to artificially lower estradiol levels-a big mistake. New research has revealed that men need estradiol, too, for their bones and brain health. Recently, I treated a man

Discoveries Thru Vision

By John M. Nevelow, O.D. Nevelow Eye Associates (210) 349-2437 • www.drsnevelow.com but more and more people have had success with the newer developments.

The traditional LASIK procedures has been improved with upgraded lasers and are here have been some changes over the now using topography - guided software. past several years in refractive surgery. The topography is a topographical mapping This is the surgery that corrects vision of the contours of the corneas for a more for people who are nearsighted, farsighted individual treatment plan. This has been or have astigmatism. Over the past 20 years used in Europe with great success. this technology has improved and has been It has now been approved in America refined to be more successful than ever. Not and allows surgeons to construct laser every patient is a candidate for the surgery,

New Developments In An Old Procedure

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Tips To Combat Seasonal Allergies

By Dr. Marianna Ashe, M.D. HealthTexas Medical Group of San Antonio (210) 546-1600 is the season for family, friends, Cetirizine is effective but can be sedating food…and sneezing, coughing, like the first generation antihistamines like watery eyes? Few of us here in Benadryl. Fortunately, these medications San Antonio have escaped the wrath of are all over-the-counter. mountain cedar that sends us rushing to our • For moderate-severe or persistent physician’s office. Some tips on what we symptoms, an intranasal steroid such can do to combat “seasonal” allergies: as Flonase, Nasonex, Nasacort is • For mild or intermittent symptoms, a recommended. Usually takes up to about 4 second generation oral antihistamine like hours for symptom reduction but can take Claritin and Allegra can be taken as needed. several days of daily use for significant

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who had been prescribed estradiol lowering drugs along with an incorrect (low) amount of testosterone—his main problem? He could not think clearly, felt “not right”. Men may suffer from osteoporosis, on thinning of their bones, which may be linked to low estradiol and low testosterone levels.

I want to provide hormones in a safe, balanced fashion to copy or mimic what your body made inside of you at a younger age.

Signs of low testosterone in men may include: anxiety, inability to make a decision, lack of drive and endurance, and of course, lack of libido, the desire for sex.

This observation is based on my observation and the change I see in men after proper

prescriptions which might include books to read, documentaries to view, as well as medications and supplements.

Recently, some studies have indicated that testosterone may be implicated in an increased risk for stroke and heart attack. Some researchers have criticized those studies as being flawed in design.

Other problems that are associated with testosterone may be an increase in prostate size. Harvard urologist Dr. Morgentaler largely discounted the unproven theory that testosterone caused prostate cancer in his book, TESTOSTERONE FOR LIFE. Donna Becker, D.O., Board Certified in Emergency Medicine. Enhancement of Life is located at 14603 Huebner Rd., Suite 2601, San Antonio, TX 78231. For more information, call (210) 545-5224 or visit www.antiagingsa.com.

patterns to the specific shape of the patient’s cornea. Over 90% of the patients have 20/20 uncorrected vision and 80% have achieved 20/15 vision or better. Of those, 98% of patients would have the topography - guided procedure again. Complications occurred in less than 1% of patients with the most being dry eyes which resolved within 3-6 months.

There is also the use of an internal contact lens that is implanted in the eye which has had great success as well. This lens is implanted behind the iris in front of the pupil. It was designed for patients with very advanced nearsightedness for which the standard LASIK procedure could not work. It also was independent on pupil size and corneal curvature and thickness, all of which would eliminate patients from the LASIK procedure. This has made it possible for more patients to have vision correction

surgery who were previously disqualified.

This procedure has been used successfully for over 2 years now and can have better results than the previous laser guided surgery.

With all these new developments in refractive surgeries it is imperatives that you have an evaluation from an optometrist who is trained and experienced in pre-operative and post-operative care of refractive surgery patients. No matter what type of surgical procedure is used, find which one is the best for you.

Should you have any questions or want further information on this topic or other ocular topics contact Dr’s John and Erin Nevelow at Nevelow Eye Associates at (210)349-2437, on our website drsnevelow.com or visit our Facebook page.

improvement. Flonase and Nasacort are also now available over-the-counter as well.

• Frequent questions physicians get are about decongestants. Most patients find oral decongestants such as Sudafed helpful especially for sinus pressure however not all people should take decongestants. Discuss with your doctor whether a decongestant is safe for you to use especially if you have high blood pressure or heart problems.

Intranasal decongestants may be a safer option for brief use (less than 3 days) but can actually cause worsening congestion and drainage with prolonged or frequent use.

• For those with persistent allergy symptoms despite the above treatments and/ or have underlying asthma or lung problems, adding a leukotriene receptor antagonist such as Singulair can be beneficial but

requires a prescription.

• Cromolyn nasal spray is another option as it has low side effects but may be less effective than the intranasal steroid and needs to be dosed more frequently.

• Importantly, don’t forget nonmedication treatments. Saline nasal rinses, allergen avoidance, dust control measures, changing out central air/heating filters, regular dusting and washing of bedding, removal of bedroom carpeting if possible, and use of air-purifiers can all be helpful.

• If still suffering with uncontrolled symptoms, discuss with your doctor allergy testing and immunotherapy.

HealthTexas Medical Group of San Antonio is located at 20821 Hwy 281 N. To find out more information about them and their doctors, visit www.healthtexas. org or call (210) 546-1600.

9th Annual On And Off Fredericksburg Road Studio Tour

Submitted By Emily Boyce rtist Kathleen Trenchard, who has lived in the Woodlawn Lake community for five years, has seen her neighborhood slowly evolve, which she partly attributes to the annual On and Off Fredericksburg Road Studio Tour that offers great exposure to the area, as well as the surrounding neighborhoods.

Visitors can discover for themselves what makes the communities along Fredericksburg Road charming and quaint.

“People come to the neighborhoods and once they visit the homes and studios, this

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area gets a good reputation as a nice place to live,” she said.

Trenchard is one of more than 70 artists, who will display their works during the 9th annual On and Off Fredericksburg Road Studio Tour from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 20, and noon to 5 pm Sunday, Feb. 21 in San Antonio’s historic Deco District.

“Fred,” as the event is known, is a selfguided tour of private homes, art studios and galleries of more than 70 artists, including painters, sculptors, photographers and metal smiths. In addition, more than 200 musicians, poets, and theater and dance

groups help make this community event one of the most diverse studio tours in the nation.

Last year, more than 2,500 locals and visitors walked, biked and drove up and down a 5-mile stretch of Fredericksburg Road to get a first-hand look at the artists working in their studios and to purchase their art, said Kellen McIntyre, executive director of Bihl Haus Arts, which presents the Fredericksburg Road Studio Tour each year.

“It’s the only time of the year these art studios are open in such large numbers in

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one weekend,” McIntyre said. “You can come with friends and plan on having brunch or a snack at one of the nearby restaurants when you’re ready to take a break, or pack a picnic lunch. You’ll get to see how artists live and work, and purchase or commission work directly from the artists.”

Attendees can purchase either the hardcopy color catalog consisting of a map to help people plan their route, artist bios and an image of their work, or the online catalog for $10. For more information, visit www.OnandOffFred.org or call Bihl Haus Arts at (210) 383-9723.

February 2016 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261

“You’re always set for a sitter.” No really – local business owners Lynn & Steve Johnson mean it.

Special To Welcome Home t’s Tuesday morning. The company dinner is four days away and your babysitter just backed out. Instead of working on your job, you’re working the phone trying to line up a sitter.

It’s Sunday afternoon. The fridge and the cupboards are bare, but the thought of walking up and down the grocery store aisles with little bodies jumping in and out of the cart is exhausting and overwhelming.

When Grandma and Grandpa are out of town and the high school neighbor is busy with her own social life, the options for busy parents are limited. They can either spend hours on the phone trying to line up a sitter or put their lives on hold (again)!

In a world where you can find a date, order a pizza and binge watch every episode of “Gilmore Girls” all from your smartphone, the solution is just an app away.

The new My Sitters™ App from College Sitters connects moms and dads who need help with qualified, reliable sitters who have a passion for watching kids. Now closing in on their second year of operations in the San Antonio market, Lynn & Steve Johnson, local Franchisees of College Nannies + Sitters + Tutors are excited about the rapid growth in the

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We had a Nanny, Madelyn, from College Nannies and Tutors for a week. She was so awesome. My 3 year old and 5 year old loved her. She was extremely attentive and she even kind of scheduled their day. She made sure they had craft time, play time outside, downtime, etc. She even baked cookies and cupcakes with them. One day she took boxes (we had just moved) and she turned them into cars and made our living room a drive in theater.

She made the girls movie tickets and popcorn buckets out of construction paper and they watched a movie at the “drive in theater”. She constantly played with them and kept them occupied. She was caring and responsible.

She was really world class. My kids had a great week” – Erin W

The team at College Nannies and Tutors in Stone Oak has exceeded my expectations above and beyond! Being able to utilize their on call sitter app has been a lifesaver for me on many occasions, it’s easy to use and I don’t have to worry about making a phone call with busy kids running around in the background.

I am able to check specific sitters availability and schedule them without talking on the phone. Lynn and her staff are professional and knowledgeable with our families needs.

They not only have sent us qualified nannies and sitters but also assist us with their tutoring program as well. Our middle and high school aged children have improved grades in math and their tutors have impressed us with their knowledge and patience. I can’t thank CNT Stone Oak enough for their service!

– Stacie B. Stone Oak and north San Antonio area.

“2015 was an amazing year. Our first full calendar year in business and we provided exceptional childcare and tutoring services to over 250 local families.” This growth fueled development of a second learning center in northwest San Antonio.

“We build stronger families. And we use our core values of ‘Can Do Attitudes’, ‘Growth and Results driven’, and ‘Leave It Better’ – as guiding principles for our team and the families we support.”

“Our whole business is based on providing impactful, full-service childcare and customized one-on-one tutoring,” Lynn explained. For all of their services, the first step in the process is a personal, complementary family meeting. At this meeting, they sit down with the family and get a good feel for their individual needs. Then they jointly develop a plan for the nanny/sitter or a goal for tutoring.

And unlike typical agencies and clearing-house websites, their nannies, sitters and tutors are all employees of the company. What that means for a family is that everyone

February 2016 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261

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coming into their homes or working with their children, have passed a thorough recruiting and hiring process including a complete, industry leading, background check as well as basic and advanced training. It also means the hassle of managing and coordinating logistics is taken off the families’ plate.

And their ability to deliver quality child care services got significantly easier in 2015 with the franchise-wide roll out of their industry leading My Sitters App for IPhone and Android. Families can book a specific sitter for care on the go, in real time, and receive a confirmation notice once the nanny/sitter confirms care.

“Our families love it,” stated Lynn. “They can literally be having coffee with a friend, decide to go out, pull their phone out, book care and have a confirmation all before finishing their cup of coffee.”

Both owners credit their growth to the hard work and dedication of their role model nannies, sitters and tutors.

“At the end of the day, the only thing that matters is the quality of the services we provide,” Steve emphasized.

“The feedback from our follow up communications on our care and tutoring continues to provide us with the best indicator of the families’ satisfaction with our services. That satisfaction is what is driving our growth.”

College Nannies + Sitters + Tutors Stone Oak 20079 Stone Oak Parkway Suite 1104, San Antonio, TX 78258 Northwest 9110 N Loop 1604 W Suite 110, San Antonio, TX 78249 210-202-0303 www.facebook.com/ CNTSanAntonio www.collegenannies.com 9

SVHS NJROTC Conducts Successful Inspection Submitted By Vincent Quidachay n Tuesday, 15 December 2015, the Commanding Officer of Navy Recruiting District San Antonio conducted the Annual Military Inspection on the Smithson Valley High School NJROTC Cadets. The evolution included all 236 cadets getting inspected, along with the supplies and academics of the NJROTC Unit.

All cadets marched in competition and at the end, they conducted a formal Pass in Review. 26 cadets also received Bravo Zulu medals for their outstanding military appearance and knowledge.

Commander Briggs commented, “I was

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Smithson Valley High School NJROTC Cadets during their annual inspection.

most impressed by the amount of parents that showed up and the support from our

booster club to feed everybody lunch.”

All grades were outstanding, and a formal

out-brief was given to the SVHS Principal, Mr. Michael Wahl.

SVHS NJROTC Visits Randolph AFB Submitted By Vincent Quidachay he Smithson Valley Navy JROTC program conducted their annual trip to Randolph Air Force Base on Sunday, 20 December 2015. Their morning started off with a 9:00 a.m. Highway Cleanup of the two mile stretch in front of the high school on Highway 46.

140 cadets participated along with several parents. The cadets then rode school buses to Randolph Air Force Base visiting the static airplane display before going bowling. Each year the Randolph Air Force Bowling Alley closes down and lets the SVHS cadets use the entire bowling alley.

During the bowling, the manager of the

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bowling alley also held raffles and contests to entertain the cadets. Pizza and soda was also provided.

“This is one of the highlights of our year, and it’s a great Christmas present for the cadets. They spend most of their time doing community service, so this is a nice way to give the cadets a send-off prior to their Christmas vacation,” commented CDR Retired Vince Quidachay, NJROTC Senior Instructor.

One the way back to the school, the cadets also delivered stuffed animals to a nearby nursing home.

The Smithson Valley Navy JROTC Cadets.

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February 2016 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261

Seniors Prove You’re Never Too Old To Fall In Love Lois Brisco with her son during the marriage ceremony.

The Briscos and priest after the marriage ceremony.

The Brisco couple

Social Support & Activities at Independent Living Community Lead to Friendship, Love & Marriage for Three Couples

Special To Welcome Home

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s our population continues to age, more Baby Boomers and seniors are finding love in senior living communities.

Six residents of Franklin Park® Sonterra, an independent living community in north central San Antonio, have found love and married other residents there, proving that you are never too old to fall in love.

Lois Brisco, 85, was one of the first residents at the community when it opened in April 2010. She moved in after her husband passed away. Joseph Brisco, 86, now her husband, came with his first wife to visit Franklin Park.

When the furnished model was not available, Lois graciously offered them a tour of her home. One month later they moved in. Unfortunately, Joseph lost his wife unexpectedly in July 2011.

“I was living alone for the first time, and one of the really beneficial things here is the social support,” said Lois.

“Through the many activities and socials, you make new friends, and Joseph and I got to know each other.”

Then, when Lois wanted to go to Oklahoma to visit her sister, Joseph said he was planning a trip to Oklahoma too, and he would be glad to drive them—they were on the road to romance.

“The seniors in our community are very active,” said Beth Nixon, director of sales and marketing at Franklin Park® Sonterra. “Activities—from parties and day trips to card games, bingo and dining out--are very popular. Participating in these activities not only fosters new friendships but helps our seniors maintain sharp minds and stay connected with the world around them.”

Most seniors don’t expect to be single at this stage in their lives, she explained. “We make it is easy for them to meet new people and find social support and companionship,” she said.

Lois, a former nurse, and Joseph, a former supervisor of radiology at two area facilities, found they had a lot in common and were spending all their time together. They were engaged just before Christmas 2011 and married on February 18, 2012 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Stone Oak. “We had a big reception in the Franklin Room for family and friends,” she said.

The couple is on the Ambassadors Committee, welcoming new residents to Franklin Park and helping them become part of the community.

“Everyone here calls us the ‘lovebirds,’” she said. Lou Baker, 82 moved to Franklin Park in 2011 after her husband of 28 years passed away. “I was so lonely and I was praying

to God to help me, and Lee walked in. He is the best thing that has ever happened to me.”

She also credits the ongoing social activities there with helping her and Lou get to know each other. Lou, a very successful residential real estate broker in earlier years, also researched Lee on Google to get background information on him.

“We started doing everything together, from happy hour to traveling,” she said. “He is so much fun.”

“We just hit it off,” said Lee, who was a pilot in two wars and retired as a full colonel. “As you go through life, it’s good to have a copilot.”

On May 4, 2012 they were married in the chapel at Franklin Park with a reception, attended by family and residents, in the Franklin Room.

Lou has advice for other seniors. “If you see somebody you like, don’t stand back and wait for him to make the first move,” she said. “It’s 2016, not 1916!”

Bonnie Krueger, 75, was the sixth resident to move into the community when it opened in spring 2010. Sadly, her husband of more than 50 years, passed away only 3 months after the move. Donald “Buzz” Buzzard become a resident in November 2010, and in December of that year lost his wife of 60 years to complications from a medical procedure.

“We met and became friends,” said Bonnie. “We both like to laugh and joke, we’re outgoing and we love people.”

Nixon said that at the community Bonnie and Buzz, as they are known, are usually the life of the party and also a most glamourous couple with their good looks and their fashion statement of dressing in the same color.

Bonnie said that neither of them was looking for love. He was concerned because he was 10 years older. Finally, Buzz told her he loved her and wanted to marry her.

“Everything just fell into place,” she said. “When we went downtown to get our marriage license, the judge waived the 72-hour waiting period and the clerk directed us to a chaplain who married us downtown in a one-room chapel.” That was on August 6, 2013.

In San Antonio, Franklin Park Senior Living owns and operates Franklin Park Sonterra, an Independent and Assisted Living community, and Franklin Park TPC offering Assisted Living and Memory Care with Independent Living facilities under construction. Franklin Park Alamo Heights, opening in spring 2016, will offer Independent and Assisted living and Memory Care. For more information, visit www. franklinpark.org.

February 2016 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261

The Bakers during their wedding reception’s first dance.

The Bakers with Lou’s uniform.

Bonnie and Buzz.

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SVHS Student Recipient Of Study Trip To Germany Submitted By Brigitte Deyle, SVHS German Teacher ateusz Garstecki, a student at Smithson Valley High School, received the prestigious award from the American Association of Teachers of German in June 2015!

As German teacher at Smithson Valley High School, I encourage students in German P-AP and AP classes to participate in the National German Exam. After taking the exam as a German III P-AP student in January of 2015, Mateusz Garstecki scored in the top 5 % in the USA and was eligible to apply for a free three-week study trip to Germany. Nearly 21,000 students participated in the exam. In order to win

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Mateusz Garstecki with the other students studying aboard in his group, in Brandenburger Tor, Berlin.

the award, Mateusz had to compete by submitting written work in German and by undergoing an interview process. He was chosen as one of 44 students in the United States to receive this award!

At the end of June 2015, he joined the other 43 award winners in New Jersey, and they flew together to Germany! Mateusz’ group stayed in Kulmbach, a town in Bavaria, a state in southern Germany. For two weeks, Mateusz lived with a host family and attended German school.

His group also visited many towns in the area of Kulmbach; in Regensburg, they got to see a section of wall that had existed since the Roman times! They also stayed in Berlin, the capital of Germany, for a week. There they saw both very old, historical buildings, along with newer, very modern skyscrapers, and also the Reichstag, which houses the

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In Regensburg, they got to see a section of wall that had existed since the Roman times!

German government. Mateusz said that the whole experience was wonderful, and that he had a great time with his host family!

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His group also visited many towns in the area of Kulmbach.

By Eric Zeitler Client Centric Wealth Management (210) 807-7599 ow will your money habits change Look at your debts, one by one. You may in 2016? What decisions or be able to renegotiate the terms of loans and behaviors might help your personal interest rates with lenders and credit card finances, your retirement prospects, or your firms. See if you can cut down the number of debts you have – either attack the one net worth?

Each year presents a “clean slate,” so with the highest interest rate first or the as one year ebbs into another, it is natural smallest balance first, then repeat with the to think about what you might do (or do remaining debts.

Rebalance your portfolio. If you have differently) in the 12 months ahead. rebalanced recently, great. Many investors Financially speaking, what New Year’s resolutions might you want to make for go years without rebalancing, which can 2016 – and what can you do to stick by such be problematic if you own too much in a declining sector. resolutions as 2016 unfolds?

How do you keep New Year’s resolutions If you have merely been saving for from faltering? Often, New Year’s retirement, save with an end in mind.

Accumulating assets for retirement is great; resolutions fail because there is only an end doing so with a planned retirement age in mind – a clear goal, but no concrete steps and an estimated retirement budget is even toward realizing it.

Lastly, you may want to automate more better. The older you get, the less hazy those variables start to become. See if you can of your financial life. If you have not set up define the “when” of retirement this year, monthly money transfers to a retirement or which will make the “how” clearer as well. investment account, 2016 can be the year Strive to maximize your 2016 retirement this happens.

Eric Zeitler may be reached at 210plan contributions. The 2016 limit on IRA contributions is $5,500, $6,500 if you will 807-7599 or ericz@ccwmgmt.com. Client be 50 or older at some point in the year. Centric Wealth Management is independent Contribution limits are set at $18,000 for of Sigma Financial Corporation and 401(k)s, 403(b)s, and most 457 plans; if you SPC. For more information visit www. will be 50 or older in 2016, you can make ccwmgmt.com. They are located at 19230 an additional catch-up contribution of up to Stone Oak Pkwy.1 - money.usnews.com/ money/retirement/articles/2015/10/26/ $6,000 to those accounts.1 Can you review & reduce your debt? how-401-k-s-and-iras-will-and-wontchange-in-2016

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K9 Corner

By Catherine Laria K9 Country Club (830) 980-8476

You LOVE Your Pet!

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ebruary, the month of love... And if you’re a pet owner you probably know the true meaning of unconditional love. So how would you feel if suddenly you found that love was missing, lost.

Unfortunately thousands of owners go through this every year because one day the gate was left open or fireworks caused your couch potato to climb a 6-foot fence.

You’ve heard it before, “my dog never leaves the yard” or “my cat is an indoor cat.” It’s crazy to think someone can control another living creature 100% of the time.

Spooked animals have been known to travel for miles in a very short amount of time. Even further when a kind stranger picks them up and drives them to their own neighborhood. With no identification, how would they know it’s not just a stray?

Each year thousands of animals are taken to shelters as strays, many brought in by the kind stranger who picked them up but could no longer care for them. Only a very small portion are returned to their owners.

In 2014, hundreds were euthanized!

Animal Care Services and local shelters are working hard to make those numbers drop dramatically, but owners need to do

Cowboys Helping Cowboys

Submitted By Lisa McGinnis inder Ranch Elementary students really know how to care for their community! Before the holidays, the Kinder Ranch students collected over 1100 items to donate to the Bulverde Food Bank and now they are at it again! When Kinder Ranch found out that one of their families needed something, they decided to help in a big way!

The family belongs to Keiba Easterling, a first grade teacher at Kinder Ranch who has been on an extended leave with her son Justin. Justin was a 5th grader at Kinder

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Ranch and was ready to head to middle school when he was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia in June of 2015.

Due to a rare genetic mutation, Justin’s best chance of recovery is now a bone marrow transplant, however, in order to receive the transplant, Justin has had numerous rounds of chemotherapy that have required him to be in the hospital the majority of the last six months. He was able to come home for Christmas, but on New Year’s Eve the family was told that the leukemia had returned. He and his family are now at St. Jude’s hospital where Justin

their part. Without secure ID reuniting a lost pet with their owner is close to impossible. I strongly encourage a permanent id for your pets such as microchipping or tattooing.

A microchip is a permanent form of ID that is implanted via an injection in the back of the animal’s neck. It’s easy to get, costs $40 - $50, and is harmless to your pet. Last I checked, residents of San Antonio can get it from ACS for free! But if you don’t want to mess with going downtown, you can get your pet chipped at K9 Country Club! We offer the AVID Friendchip® with a prepaid, lifetime registration with AVID’s national registry.

Now, if you choose to pick up an animal, you need to do everything you can to reunite them with their owner. That includes, taking them to be scanned, putting up flyers in a 5 mile radius, and contacting local vet clinics, shelters, and animal control facilities to let them know you have the pet. Remember if you turn that dog or cat in, the odds are against them of ever getting back home.

is receiving treatment. Justin’s sister, Olivia, who is a fourth grade student at Kinder Ranch, is with the family as they fight this battle together.

At Kinder Ranch, they like to take care of each other. Although Justin’s treatment costs at St. Jude’s are covered, the medical and other expenses the family has accrued to this point are not. To help with the costs, Kinder Ranch started “Jingles for Justin”, asking the students to bring donations of spare change for the family. At the time of this article, over $1300 has been collected!

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Get your pet chipped today!

K9 Country Club is located at 31305 Oak View, Bulverde TX 78163. For more information, call (830) 980-8476 or visit www.k9countryclub.net.

In addition, a Kinder Ranch parent has organized a Spaghetti Dinner at Bulverde United Methodist Church, with all proceeds going to the Easterling family. The dinner will be held at the church on March 2nd starting at 5 pm. Plates will be $5 each.

Finally, if those in community would like to donate to Justin’s cause, you may do so by using the link to their Go Fund Me Account at www.gofundme.com/fight4justin.

It is obvious that at Kinder Ranch, it is Cowboys helping Cowboys!

Former SVHS Star Athlete Competes For U.S. Junior National Team

Family.Work. Balance.

Pictured is the United States Junior National Team in Scotland. (L-r) Judy Pendergast (Naperville North HS), Maryjeanne Gilbert (Peoria Notre Dame HS), Katie Rainsberger (Air Academy HS), Amy Davis (University of Wisconsin), Carlene Jeffers (Brown University), and Devin Clark (University of Arkansas).

Submitted By Jason Gordon ormer Smithson Valley High School standout student-athlete Devin Clark, who is currently in the middle of her freshman year at the University of Arkansas, recently competed with the United States Junior National Team in Edinburgh, Scotland.

Team USA finished second in the Great Edinburgh Cross-Country International Challenge, which is comprised of two junior teams (age 19 and under), two senior teams (over age 19) and one senior relay team.

“I think it’s every runner’s dream to wear the Team USA jersey,” said SVHS head coach Brittney Lanehart. “I know it’s an honor for her to have this opportunity at

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this age. I hope it’s the first of many chances she has to run for our country. Devin told me that when you hear people in the crowd cheering for the USA that it was the first time she really felt the magnitude of what she was there for.”

Clark is coming off an impressive first semester in college in which she made the All-Southeastern Conference CrossCountry Team and qualified for the NCAA Cross-Country Meet.

Before graduating from Smithson Valley High last June, Clark set a Comal ISD record by earning 12 career medals in UIL State Cross-Country and Track and Field events.

February 2016 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261

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SVHS FFA Team Finishes Third In State Submitted By Jason Gordon he Smithson Valley High team that finished third at the State FFA Skills Leadership Development Event in December at Sam Houston State University certainly earned their prize.

Starting out at the district level, more than 360 teams began competing statewide.

The list was narrowed at the area level as well as at the state semifinals.

“We had to compete four different times to eventually finish third in state,” said Joe David Lehmberg, SVHS teacher and team coach. “I’m very proud of this group. They started practicing in September and didn’t let up until the state event in December.”

This is the seventh time since Lehmberg began coaching the SVHS FFA Skills Leadership Development Team in 2005 that the squad finished in the top 10 in state.

“Year after year the kids work hard,”

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Lehmberg said. “They are always good speakers, which is very important in this event. Another key is the community really gets behind our program. Sometimes I’ll have parents who have been involved in FFA or are involved in sales, or even students who graduated from SVHS and were on our team several years ago, come in and listen to our current team and ask them questions to prepare them for competition.”

This year’s team gave a 20-minute speech at state on how to wire an exhaust fan (commonly used to help lower electricity costs in a home or business) from start to finish.

“The real key is they have to explain to the judges exactly what they’re building and explain every detail step by step,” Lehmberg said.

Pictured from SVHS are (l-r) are Coach Joe David Lehmberg, Kaleigh Lawson, Alexandrea Schroeder, and Megan Eckhardt. Also pictured (far right) is State FFA Vice President and Texas A&M-College Station student Kaleb Dautrich.

What Butterflies Can Teach People Special To Welcome Home “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” Psalm 23:6

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utterflies are not just beautiful and radiant they are a force of nature.

The Butterfly Effect is a proven phenomenon in the scientific field of Quantum physics that we can learn from.

Since we are all connected in the universe,

a small event such as a butterfly flapping its wings several weeks before, on a distant continent, can influence the characteristics of a hurricane somewhere else in the world.

In other words, small acts can ignite big changes, even at a distance.

The Butterfly Effect, by the same token, is relevant to our human lives because it teaches us that we are not helpless. As a matter of fact, how we conduct our own lives can be a global game changer. Therefore, it helps to do more soul-searching. We need to ask, what can I do to help make the world

The Welcome Home Community Newspaper has had the privilege of serving the community for 11 years as one of the few local papers that shines a spotlight on the good things in life – the accomplishments of our amazing youth, inspirational stories and the residents and local businesses that comprise the heart of our area.

With �ive different papers covering northern San Antonio, Welcome Home is directly mailed to over 60,000 households and businesses as well as rack distribution.

How To Submit Articles • We work a month in advance so submit by the given deadline (ex: if you submit in January it will be for the February edition) • Like us on Facebook or let us know if you would like to be put on our email list that will notify you of each deadline

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• Email articles to: articles@welcomehomesa.com

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a better place? What can I improve upon in my everyday life? What personal and professional goals do I have? What values do I embrace?

Even though there is a growing sense of powerlessness and apathy in the world today, there is hope. Each one of us can make an impact. According to the Butterfly Effect we do not have to do anything monumental. Instead, modifying one thing in our lives can move mountains. Something as simple encouraging others in our families and communities to think critically, become more discerning or move forward can be a huge contribution.

Moreover, instead of being consumed by the latest technology it helps to fine tune our human talents and abilities. We need to restore our sense of balance because our modern priorities are out of whack. Look around. You will see more texting than face to face conversations, and as a result the best parts of our humanity are atrophying.

For example, we are losing our instincts and compassion.

Therefore, if we want a brighter future we need to act. Each of us must do our part, in whatever way we can, to cultivate the higher side of our human nature. However, this call to action also requires that we interact personally with other people and nature. To do so can be life-changing. For example, talk with a friend, visit a loved one or share something special. Take a stroll together, sing along with a bird or listen to the sounds of the wind. We need to become walking examples of responsible freedom, truth, courage, discipline and love. As the

old saying goes, changing the world begins at home.

To prevent violence in our society we need strong, wise and dynamic leaders more than ever. We need mentors to encourage each of us to strive for excellence, reach higher and shine brighter. A brilliant light outshines darkness. We must find ways in our day to day activities to bring out the best in ourselves and other people. When we do goodness and mercy have a positive power and path of their very own.

Therefore, our mission is simple. Reach out and help others find more joy. When joy goes up, violence and hatred go down.

Our focus for years has been to enrich and improve the lives of others, both personally and professionally. In the process, a glorious and colorful butterfly emerges.

Dr. Adele von Rust McCormick and Dr. Marlena Deborah McCormick are Ph.D.’s in clinical psychology and mother and daughter. They are highly skilled with people and authors of two groundbreaking books, “Horse Sense and the Human Heart: What Horses can Teach Us about Trust, Bonding, Creativity and Spirituality” and “Horses and the Mystical Path: The Celtic Way of Expanding the Human Soul.”

Their forthcoming book is “Awakening to More: Illuminating Encounters.” The Drs. McCormick are also Directors of the Institute for Conscious Awareness, a nonprofit organization for Human Development, Advancement and Leadership.

To learn more, visit their website at www. horsesenseandthehumanheart.com.

• Community, School, and Sports News • Upcoming events *Always submit photos with your submissions!

Welcome Home Community Newspaper is pleased to offer this free service to the community. Upon submission of a story idea or photo, you give Welcome Home the right to use that submission without compensation. By submitting to Welcome Home, you guarantee that your material is sent with the express consent of the owner, and that its contents are non-proprietary and non-confidential. We cannot guarantee all submissions will be published. Welcome Home is under no obligation to use any idea, photo or article submitted. We reserve the right to edit or alter submissions for conciseness and grammar as needed and may need to prioritize certain events for any reason before publication.

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February 2016 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261

SVMS Reaches To A Galaxy Far Far Away Submitted By Colby Evans s we engage and inspire our students to Read throughout the school day (our Book Whisperer campus initiative), and teach Technology and Writing across all curricular courses, Smithson Valley Middle School teachers model the same life-long learning practices that we work to instill in our students. Once again, one of the stakeholders from our community stepped up to honor the hard work from our teachers, gave back to the school that does so much for the students, and offered an opportunity for the SVMS students to see exactly what their teachers could produce as life-long academics.

Alamo Drafthouse at Stone Oak has a history of providing awesome incentives, and appreciative thank yous for the teachers

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in our Smithson Valley/North San Antonio community, and with the newest installment of the nearly 40 year epic, Star Wars: The Force Awakens, it gave the SVMS Mustang students a chance to read, to watch, to interact with their teachers’ skills and abilities as writers, as movie makers, and masters of technology. Alamo Drafthouse graciously donated two tickets for the SVMS teacher, who was the greatest Star Wars fan of all time, for the opening night premier at their Stone Oak location. So, how was SVMS to figure out which staff member was the greatest Star Wars fan of all time?...

They held a contest!

The response from the SVMS faculty was galactic! The teachers composed essays, narratives, poetry, movies, and interactive digital presentations; however, the one who stood out from the pack was Assistant

Band Director, James Hargreaves, with his presentation combining a written display of his personal love of Star Wars backed up by music and technology… standing out as the SVMS greatest fan of all time! Alamo Drafthouse found the faculty responses so surprisingly real, true, overwhelming, and awesome that they decided to invite the runners-up and their families to a special breakfast screening, as well; so many 30+ year childhood dreams came true that week!

SVMS teachers placed their energy and efforts into an amazing school project filled with memories and nostalgia, and received tremendous appreciation from one of our community stakeholders for the work our teachers do on a daily basis; however, it is the looks on the faces of the SVMS Mustang students, as they call for their friends to “come over here and look at this!”

Assistant Band Director, James Hargreaves, used his Jedi mind tricks to win the SVMS Star Wars Contest provided by the Stone Oak Alamo Drafthouse.

and they read through those memories and watch those presentations of their teachers, the teachers that they love, learn from, and respect… that’s the big prize.

SA Fencers Won Two Medals At National Fencing Tournament

Submitted By Velizar Iliev n December 18-20, 2015, three Musketeers from OLYMPIAN FENCING CLUB competed at Super Youth Circuit & Cadet fencing National tournament in Chicago, IL. Basis San Antonio student 11 year old Ricky Gonzalez finished 3rd and received Bronze medal in Youth 12 Men’s Epee event and his teammate also 11 years old Noah Pineda from St. Anthony Catholic School captured 8th place Finalist medal.

Ricky and Noah competed against the top 32 male athletes 12 years old and younger

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from around the country.

At the Cadet event, Nam Luong from Hector Garcia Middle School only 13 years old and with just over 1 year of experience in fencing placed 14th. Nam competed against top 32 male fencers 16 years old and younger from around the country.

Nam, Ricky and Noah are training at the Olympian Fencing Club in San Antonio, Texas and are coached by World Champion and US Olympian Coach Velizar Iliev.

For more information about this competition or the fencing club please visit www.OlympianFencingClub.com

In photo from left to right: Nam Luong, Ricky Gonzalez and Noah Pineda.

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Note: Pool shown above includes multiple options not included in the base price pool. Special does not include deck and requires normal access and relatively flat yard elevation.

February 2016 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261

www.welcomehomesa.com

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The Perfect Storm

By Blake Groomer Groomer’s Seafood (210) 377-0951 he second week of February is going to be a true seafood mania. The Storm starts off hard with the Big Game on Sunday the 7th, that Saturday you can expect plenty of bacon wrapped shrimp and beautiful fish fillets for the grill. My personal favorite for this day is Redfish on the halfshell. What’s the halfshell? What this means is the skin and scales is left on one side of the fillet. When grilled, the

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halfshell both protects your fillet and gives the fillet much more flavor while keeping it nice and juicy.

Monday the 8th brings us Chinese New Year. Seafood and Chinese New Year go hand in hand. Traditionally family is gathered from all limbs of the tree for a feast featuring a number of dishes, either eight for prosperity or nine for longevity. For this day whole fish are a must as they represent

Feel Better With A Piping Hot Bowl Of Soup

By Tanji Patton Goodtaste.tv he key to looking and feeling your best this time of year may be as simple as a piping hot bowl of soup.

And science agrees! Research has shown that a serving of the good stuff often makes for the perfect meal substitute to richer, higher-calorie dense foods. These hearty eats are known to help regulate your blood sugar and make you feel fuller—faster!

In general, soups have a low number of calories as compared to their serving size.

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They’re filling, yet easy for your body to digest. Bottom line--you’ll see results on the scale in no time. In fact, one study from Penn State found that consuming soup resulted in about a 450-calorie drop per meal!

Seek out those soups based around vegetables, lentils, and lean protein over anything cheese or cream-based. There’s one soup that is actually reported to flush fat right out of your body! The so-called slimming ingredients include lots of earthy

If I Would Have Known… I Would Have Done This Sooner!

By Michelle Houriet, Executive Director Independence Hill Retirement Resort Community (210) 209-8956 wish I’d done this sooner…” This living with my kids but they eat dinner at is something commonly heard 8:00pm – I just like living with my own at Independence Hill Retirement kind!” she says with a chuckle as everyone Community. Whether it is just in passing, around her roars with laughter. “We have at a Newcomer’s Social or a Family Event; different interests than our kids do, so I had over and over again we are told from to “fit” into what they were planning. Now I residents and their families that if they had have people (neighbors) all around me with known then what they know now, they similar interests; which keeps me busy each would have joined our Independence Hill and every day doing things I like to do.” family much sooner.

Several other residents have a similar A longtime resident, puts it best, “I tried story. They have lost a spouse, are new to

“I

2016 Red Dress 5K Fun Run & Walk

Submitted By Shirley Wills ne of Stone Oak’s most popular Heart Month events, the Red Dress 5K Fun Run & Walk at Methodist Stone Oak Hospital will raise funds for the American Heart Association and give the community a fun way to fight heart disease on Saturday, February 27.

More than 750 people are expected to participate in the event, which honors those affected by heart disease. Entry fee is $20 per person and all proceeds go to the American Heart Association.

“Methodist Healthcare has been a tremendous partner for the American Heart

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Association and this annual event is just one more way that we are able to engage the community in the AHA mission. We are grateful to Methodist Healthcare for supporting our efforts to end cardiovascular disease in San Antonio,” said Stacy Hicks Herr, Executive Director, American Heart Association – San Antonio.

The timed race will be at the hospital, located at 1139 W. Sonterra Blvd. Early registration is encouraged at SAHealth. com/HeartandSoul. Late registration and festivities begin at 7 a.m., and the walk begins at 8 a.m. Participants are encouraged to wear a red dress or dress in red. Medals

having a good start and end to the New Year and avoiding bad luck. For me, my favorite fish to serve whole is a Red Snapper. The meat is sweet, flaky and delicious and the bright red color makes for excellent display.

Wednesday begins Lent and Friday is the first Friday of Lent. Lent is a period of fasting, moderation, and self-denial traditionally observed by Catholics and some Protestant denominations. It begins with Ash Wednesday and ends with Easter Sunday. During this time adherents give certain things up throughout the time, but traditionally on Fridays, many give up meat and eat fish. During this time we will place focus on bringing in fish items like Catfish, Tilapia, Redfish and other easy to cook items.

Our week finishes off with Valentine’s

Day, and nothing says I love you like Lobster! Restaurants tend to be the go to on this day, but homemade meals are both cozier, and preparing a meal really shows with action how much you care. Our Valentines special will be two lobster tails, and two Captains Cuts of Salmon. It’s our most popular combo of the year, and we always hear from customers how much they enjoy this approach.

So there you go! That’s a taste of the storm and we can’t wait for it. Be sure to give us a call at 210-377-0951 if you have any questions or if you want to see what specials we have for each day. Or feel free to email me at groomerseafood@ gmail.com. We’ll see you soon!

spices...the aromas are sensational. This Fat Flush Soup, originally created for Woman’s World Magazine, remains as one of the most popular recipes on Goodtaste.tv to date!

Rich in antioxidants and loaded with fiber…

A newer entry on my site is Winter Minestrone prepared with butternut squash and kale. It’s topped with freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese (if you’re so inclined) and served with warm bread.

Veggie heavy and freezes well.

You’ll get a ‘kick’ out of this Spicy Sweet Potato Soup with garlic, minced jalapeños and strips of tangy turnip greens in a warm, spicy broth. It’s topped off with a squeeze of fresh lime and garnished with cilantro.

Try using collards or spinach instead of the turnip greens depending on your preference.

Celebrity Chef John Besh dished on recipe for White Squash & Shrimp Soup,

included in his brand new cookbook out now.

It’s a heftier offering that features green and white striped Southern heirloom cushaw squash and wild brown shrimp sourced from Lake Pontchartrain. Here’s to home cooked happiness on a plate! For more delicious recipes and fun food and wine pairing ideas, subscribe to my newsletter.

Tanji is an Emmy award winning journalist pursuing her passion for wine and food. Tanji explores the inviting worlds of chefs, wine makers and culinary newsmakers. If you would like more information, she can be reached at Goodtaste@tanjipatton.com.

town to be closer to their family, or their neighbors were younger and busy working during the day so they found themselves spending too much time alone.

Bottom line, people want to remain independent; where they are free to do what they want when they want. Everything possible is done to allow residents to remain independent, from providing a variety of fitness classes to stay fit, tons of social opportunities to stay stimulated and active and by making life just a little easier by providing services that allow the time to play, to include housekeeping, maintenance, landscaping, and even transportation services to scheduled outings, shopping, the airport and medical appointments.

Mrs. Holmes sums it up beautifully, “When someone asks me why I moved to Independence Hill, I say – ‘Why not?’

Why live alone in a big house and have to depend on family or friends to shuttle you to appointments, shopping or to run errands?

Why not live where you will have friends, feel secure and have a blast! Why not live in a retirement community that has so many advantages – peace of mind for my family, and me, great neighbors, housekeeping services, excellent meals, and a friendly staff?”

The only way to experience the Independence Hill way of life is to come by and see it for yourself. Don’t regret waiting another day… Call our Lifestyle Specialists at (210) 209-8956 to set up your personal tour. Independence Hill Retirement Resort Community is located at 20450 Huebner Rd., San Antonio, TX 78258. For more information visit www. independencehill.com.

will be awarded to all participants, and an award will be given for the most popular dress. Refreshments will be provided, and pets on leashes are welcome.

“We are proud to continue hosting this event, not only to raise funds for the American Heart Association, but also to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of heart disease,” said Marc Strode, CEO at Methodist Stone Oak Hospital. “Heart disease is the No. 1 cause of death in the United States, killing millions every year.

One of the reasons that heart disease is so deadly is that the symptoms are not always intense or obvious. They vary from person

to person and according to gender.”

While at the race, participants can visit a variety of vendors with information on heart health. “We want to provide information and motivation to help everyone to step up and make a heart healthy change in their lives,” said Strode.

For more information, please call the Methodist Healthcare HealthLine at 210-575-0355. Visit SAHealth.com/ HeartandSoul to learn about other Methodist Healthcare Heart Month events.

www.welcomehomesa.com

February 2016 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261

SVMS Students Shine In Writing Contest Submitted By Jason Gordon mithson Valley Middle School student Jacqueline LaFond didn’t have to look far for inspiration for her entry into this school year’s Patriots Pen Essay Writing Contest.

This year’s middle school essay topic was “What Freedom Means to Me.” LaFond, who finished second in the contest, said she drew inspiration from father for her prize-winning essay. Her dad, Mark LaFond, retired as a Lt. Col. in the Air Force.

“It’s a very personal subject to me because my dad served 20 years in the military,” said LaFond. “I really got to see how things worked in the military because I lived on a base for the first part of my life.”

LaFond added that the theme of what freedom means to her also created a spark.

“I think a lot of people take for granted that they were born into a country like the United States, where they have so many

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freedoms other people around the world don’t have,” LaFond said. “I don’t think they realize the sacrifices that were made so they can enjoy things like the right to express yourself freely.”

Students who entered the VFW Patriots Pen Contest at Smithson Valley Middle School were honored with cash prizes and certificates.

LaFond won a $150 for her second-place effort. Fellow SVMS students Elizabeth Strunk finished third and earned $100 and Elijah Froiland won fourth place in the contest and was given $50.

Every SVMS student who entered the contest received a certificate from local VFW Post 8800.

Smithson Valley Middle Texas History teacher Dennis O’Brien served 25 years in the U.S. Air Force and retired as a Commander Chief Master Sergeant.

“The Patriots Pen Essay program is an excellent way for students to learn about veterans,” O’Brien said. “They get to learn

Pictured are: back row (l-r) VFW Post 8800 Commander Ty Teel, Matthew Vanderbrook, SVMS U.S. History Teacher, Frances McGovernor, SVMS History Department Chair, Ethan Pyle, Mike Keranen, Principal SVMS, and Dennis O’Brien, SVMS Texas History Teacher. Middle row: Damien Santanna, Kianna Lyn Steck, Norma Jean Parmelou, VFW Auxiliary President, Taylor Jerry, Adriana Kreuger, Isabella Ruiz, and Joshua Montelongo. Front row: Elijah Froiland, Elizabeth Strunk, Jacqueline LaFond, and Maria Anna Esparza, SVMS Counselor.

about people who have not only fought but who have died for their freedoms and that is

Dual Language Information Meetings Submitted By Jason Gordon omal ISD’s Dual Language Program is a bilingual educational program integrating Native Spanish Speakers and students whose Native Language is English for instruction in two languages (English & Spanish).

The program is designed for students entering kindergarten. It lasts from grades K-5. During the 2016-17 school year, the Comal ISD Dual Language Program will be offered at four campuses: Bill Brown, Clear Spring, Kinder Ranch and Morningside elementary schools. Parents of incoming kindergarten students who do not attend those schools but are interested in the Dual Language Program do have the option of providing transportation for their child to

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the Dual Language campus of their choice.

Parent information meetings will take place at 6:30 p.m. at: Clear Spring Elementary School – Tuesday, March 22nd Morningside Elementary School – Monday, April 4th Kinder Ranch Elementary School – Wednesday, April 6th Bill Brown Elementary School – Thursday, April 17th

The purpose of Comal ISD’s Dual Language Program is to develop listening, speaking, reading and writing skills in English and Spanish for every student participating in the program. Students who are Native English and Spanish speakers are

purposely mixed in the same educational environment to provide communicative and academic language development through an interactive and cross-cultural setting.

Students are taught by a team of two teachers – one who teaches primarily in Spanish and one who teaches primarily in English. During the course of the school day, students will receive half of their instruction in English and half of their instruction in Spanish.

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Bulverde elementary is welcome to attend an information session.

The Spanish Immersion Language Program is designed for English-speaking students who wish to become fluent in Spanish. Students must enter the program in the first-grade, and a majority of the curriculum for language arts/reading, mathematics, science and social studies is delivered in Spanish. Students are expected to continue the program through fifth-grade.

“The ultimate goal of the Spanish Immersion Language Program is for students to become bilingual, bicultural, and bi-literate,” said Dr. Karon Henderson, Comal ISD Bilingual/ESL Director. “We have great teachers in this program and the bar is set high. Not only will students who complete Comal ISD’s Spanish Immersion Program be able to understand both English and Spanish, they will be able to both read and write in English and Spanish.

That will obviously open a lot of doors as these students move forward in both their educational and career paths.”

Students must currently be enrolled in kindergarten in Comal ISD to qualify for the program.

February 2016 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261

Students are expected to continue in the program until the end of the fifth grade.

“Not only will students who complete Comal ISD’s Dual Language Program be able to understand both English and Spanish, they will be able to both read and write in English and Spanish,” said Dr. Karon Henderson, Comal ISD’s Bilingual/ ESL Director. “That will obviously open a lot of doors as these students move forward in both their educational and career paths.”

PRIMARY CARE & SPECIALTY OF BULVERDE Annual Preventative Exams Well Child Exams Well Woman Exams School Physicals Sports Physicals

Spanish Immersion Parent Information

Submitted By Jason Gordon offmann Lane Elementary in New Braunfels and Rahe Bulverde Elementary in Bulverde will offer a Spanish Immersion Language Program for students entering first-grade in school year 2016-2017, who currently attended kindergarten in Comal ISD. Mandatory meetings for parents interested in enrolling their child in the Spanish Immersion Language Program are scheduled for the following dates and locations: Rahe Bulverde Elementary, Thursday, April 12th at 6:30 p.m.

Hoffmann Lane Elementary, Tuesday, April 14th at 6:30 p.m.

Hoffmann Lane and Rahe Bulverde elementary schools are currently the only Comal ISD schools offering the Spanish Immersion Language Program. However, any parent of a current Comal ISD kindergarten student interested in enrolling a child in the Spanish Immersion Language Program who doesn’t attend these campuses and can provide transportation for their child to either Hoffmann Lane or Rahe

an invaluable lesson.”

Accepting New Patients Diabetes Management Weight Management Cholesterol Management Hypertension Management

Walk-ins Welcomed Jeff D. Ethridge, M.D.

Dr. Ethridge is a resident of the Bulverde/Spring Branch area.

2795 Bulverde Rd. (FM1863)

(830) 980-1714

NO SEASON HAS TO BE

ALLERGY SEASON! Stone Oak Allergy 155 Sonterra Blvd., Ste. 101 San Antonio, TX 78258

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Amanda Trott-Gregorio, MD Specializing in allergy, asthma, and immunology diagnosis, testing, and treatment for adults and children.

Same day appointments available. Call today!

www.stoneoakallergy.com • 210.494.0690 17

The 2016 Ian’s Cup Soccer Clinic At Mays YMCA

2015 Fincke Cup Soccer Clinic Fundraiser in Memory of Ian Fincke at Mays YMCA.

Submitted By Stephanie Fincke he 7th annual Ian’s Cup Soccer Clinic will be held on Sunday, February 28th from 2-4PM at the Mays YMCA with registration beginning at 1:30PM (a rain date is still TBD). You can pre-register or sign up to volunteer for the clinic at www.

IansCup.com. Deadline to register for the clinic to ensure a 2016 Ian’s Cup T-shirt is Monday, February 15th.

T-shirts can be pre-ordered on the website as well through February 15th with mailing options available for delivery. Preregistration will continue until Saturday, February 27th but will not guarantee a t-shirt if registering for the clinic after February 15th. The clinic will run from 2-4PM. The cost for pre-registration is $25 and $30 for walk-ins the day of the clinic. Each participant should bring cleats (or athletic shoes), an age appropriate ball, and a desire to learn and have fun!

Ian’s Foundation was formed in

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memory of Ian Fincke who passed away tragically at the age of 16 as the result of a traumatic brain injury sustained during a skateboarding accident. The foundation was formed to advance the safety and welfare of San Antonio youth through education and scholarship awards. The soccer clinic and game was formerly known as The Fincke Cup, however, the events truly revolve around the memory of Ian, who was the inspiration behind the game and the fundraising efforts. The name has been changed this year to reflect the memory of Ian and to raise money in his honor to give back to the San Antonio community.

Ian’s love for the game of soccer inspired the creation of Ian’s Cup, an annual soccer match played between Johnson High School and Reagan High School Varsity Boys and Girls Soccer Teams. The school with the highest aggregate score for the night receives the coveted Ian’s Cup Trophy and bragging rights for the year. A scholarship

2015 Fincke Cup Award for Girls: Sarah Grace Freeman 2015 Fincke Cup Award for Boys: Derek Burris (RHS) and Kyle Reynoso (JHS).

(RHS) and Addie Bachle (JHS).

is awarded to a boy and girl from each team for a total of four scholarships annually. To date over $28,000 in scholarships has been awarded to deserving San Antonio students.

The soccer clinic for the youth of San Antonio is the main fundraiser that supports the scholarship awards and allows the local high school soccer players and club coaches an opportunity to teach soccer skills to the youth of San Antonio.

The 7th annual Ian’s Cup Soccer Match will be held on Tuesday, March 1st. The boy’s game will begin at 5PM followed by the girl’s game at 7PM with the presentation of the Ian Cup trophy at the conclusion of the girl’s game. Come out and support the JHS and RHS soccer teams at Blossom Athletic Center in this special memorial tribute to Ian. Ian’s foundation was the inspiration

behind bringing wheelchair soccer to San Antonio and continues to support STRAPS (South Texas Regional Adaptive and Paralympic Sports) at Morgan’s Wonderland. Ian’s Foundation also supports the local YMCA by providing scholarships to allow San Antonio youth that could not afford to play soccer the opportunity to play the sport that Ian loved so much. We are looking for donations of gently used soccer equipment to help with this cause.

There will be a drop box at the soccer clinic as well as at locations throughout San Antonio. The foundation continues to do helmet safety talks at local schools throughout San Antonio and hope to expand the helmet safety initiative in 2016. Please visit www.IansFoundation.org to find out more or if interested in making a donation/ becoming a sponsor.

The Primary Election Is Right Around The Corner, Are You Ready?

By Deana Abiassi, Precinct Chair 3121 s the Seasons come and go, so does the Election cycle. This is the season of elections and if you haven’t seen the changes in the political climate, you are not stopping to smell the roses and watch the changes of the leaves, and, frankly, to shake hands with the candidates. Times, they are a changing…and, this is the season of change in the political climate. Ok, enough of the climate change analogy.

The Primary election is right around the corner and, as a citizen of the country, it is your responsibility to get informed, involved and to vote. By definition, a Primary election is: to appoint delegates to a political party

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conference or to select the candidates for a principal, especially presidential, election, and, by definition it is particularly partisan.

Each political party selects its’ candidates to run in the General election, so when you step up to vote and show your ID, you will be asked what political party you are affiliated with and you will vote only in that Primary.

Each political party lists a “party platform” on their website and that is a good place to start if you are unsure of the political party Primary you would like to vote in. There are important dates and deadlines that you should be aware of in order to participate in this election season and in order to make your experience and those of the poll

workers more expedient and enjoyable.

The first day to apply for Ballot by Mail was January 1 and the last day is February 19 and the Ballot must be received by March 1.

The last day to register to vote is February 1.

Voter registration forms are available at the Bexar County Elections office, or you can go to any political party office. Early voting in the Primary is Tuesday, February 16 through Friday, February 26th. The Primary is March 1st. Ballot by Mail forms, early voting locations and Primary day voting precincts, are listed on the Bexar County Elections website.

Now is the time to check on your voter status. Are you registered to vote? Have you moved? If so, your precinct has possibly changed and you will need to let the voting officials know. I good point of reference is your voting card. It was recently mailed and the new color is blue, so reference that to confirm that your information is correct. If you have questions, contact the Bexar County Elections office and they will gladly confirm your information. It is your responsibility to change your address and update your status.

If you have a child who has turned 18, encourage them to register. If you have a college student or a family member registered in the county, but has moved away, now is the time to talk to them about this voting cycle. They may either remain registered at their permanent resident and vote in Bexar County if they plan to be in town or they can vote by mail. Or, they can change their address and vote in their new county.

www.welcomehomesa.com

The Primary run-off election will be on May 24, 2016, if needed. It is important to note, that the political party you select for the Primary is the political party you will vote in for the run-off, but you may vote in either political party in the General election.

For additional information, visit the Secretary of State’s office or the Bexar County Elections office.

February 2016 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261

C OME C ON NECT OVE R C OFFE E Join the Stone Oak Business Association for a breakfast networking event. We will discuss some networking tips and what has worked in the past.

Then we will ask you what works for you and why.

Maybe you can help someone find the missing piece to their networking.

Date: Wednesday, February 24, 2016 Time: 7:30 am – 9:30 am Location: The Egg & I 700 E Sonterra Blvd #314 in the Plaza Shopping Ctr at the corner of Sonterra & Sigma Rd. Cost: Member $10

RSVP: (210)348-8233 e-mail: soba@satx.rr.com www. StoneOakBusiness .com

Non-Member $15

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Stone Oak Business Association

SOBA • Building Relationships, Growing Businesses

2016 SOURCE COMING SOON! The Guide With All Your North Side Information The Source is a Business & Medical Directory. It includes: Things To Do, Restaurants, Shopping, Medical, Maps, and more!—right at your fingertips. Pick up a FREE 2015 copy at any of these locations: • • • • • • •

Falcon Bank – 19230 Stone Oak Pkwy.

Frost Bank – Stone Oak at 18762 Stone Oak Pkwy.

Frost Bank – Stone Ridge off Evans Rd. by HEB Plus Green Fields Market – 19239 Stone Oak Pkwy.

Jefferson Bank – Stone Oak at 19002 Stone Oak Parkway Randolph Brooks FCU – 23737 Bulverde Road (Near Johnson HS) State Farm/Betsy Dippo – 19190 Stone Oak Pkwy., Ste. 112

For additional information call 210.348.8233 or visit

www.StoneOakBusiness.com

February 2016 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261

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Boarding, Daycare & Training Gift Certificates Available

FREE NIGHT

w/7 NIGHT STAY

Present coupon at check-in. Boarding must be in February. Offers, specials or discounts may not be combined. Limit 1 per household.

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Present coupon at check-in. Must be current on all vaccinations & spay or neutered. Limit 1 per household.

No cash value. Expires 2/29/16

BUY 5, GET 1 FREE Present coupon at check-in.

Valid on 1/2 or full day daycare packages.

Offers, specials or discounts may not be combined.

Limit 1 per household.

No cash value. Expires 2/29/16

Camp Bow Bow® Stone Oak 20750 Stone Oak Parkway

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Camp Bow Bow® North West 5811 Rocky Point

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10 OFF

Dry Cleaning (Min order of $ 40)

Bring this coupon and receive $ 10 OFF with $ 40 of drycleaning.

Coupon must accompany incoming order.

Not valid w/other discounts or 3 pant special.

One coupon per day. Exp.2/29/16 NC

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5 OFF

Cleaning

(Bedspreads & Comforters) Coupon must accompany incoming order.

Not valid w/other offer.

One coupon per day. Exp. 2/29/16 NC

50% OFF Dry Cleaning (Max discount $10)

Wearing apparel only. Not valid on household item, leather, or suede.

Coupon must accompany incoming order.

Not valid w/other discounts or 3 pant special.

One coupon per day. Exp. 2/29/16 NC

5th Men’s Shirt FREE Laundry

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Bring this coupon with 5 shirts and get your 5th shirt FREE. Coupon must accompany incoming order.

Not valid w/other discounts.

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One coupon per day. Exp. 2/29/16 NC

Call to schedule your free consultation today!

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February 2016 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261