March 2016 78260 61 for web by Russell Groomer

A Monthly Publication Directly Mailed to the residents of Timberwood Park, Canyon Springs, Lookout Canyon, Riata Ranch and surrounding areas POSTAL CUSTOMER

March 2016 Issue

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Seeing to your family’s needs

t Nevelow Eye Associates, we focus on the specific needs of each patient. Regular eye exams are key to healthy eyesight as well as early detection of certain diseases, including glaucoma, diabetic eye diseases and macular degeneration. We provide the l a t e s t fashions in glasses, all types of contact lenses as well as laser vision consultations for the entire family.

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March 2016 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261

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March 2016 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261

Note From The Publisher

Family And Spring Break

Celebrate the “Green” of St Patrick’s Day Thru Out March, Special Pricing On Big Green Eggs! Take your culinary skills to the next level by cooking entire meals on the Big Green Egg. Grill – Bake –Roast – Smoke – you name it, the Big Green Egg can do it. As we like to say at Jeff’s Backyard: “FROM BRISKETS TO BISCUITS, the Big Green Egg can do it all!” This sale through March 31, 2016

arch is always a great time of year for me because it’s the birthday month of both of my children. My son, Blake, will be 24 and my daughter, Rashell, will be 20. As the years progress and they continue to become their own person, I could not be any prouder of them. Blake is in charge of the retail store at Groomer’s Seafood, so if you have any seafood needs, be sure to pay him a visit and read his article on page 13 about the upcoming crawfish season. Rashell is currently attending college; working towards a degree in mortuary science. Every month that I begin piecing together the upcoming edition of Welcome Home, I’m reminded of my community and how lucky I am to live in an area that cares about their kids as much as I do. March also brings SPRING! Texas is not known for its long Winters but nothing puts me in a better mood than clear skies and sunshine. This issue was such a joy to put together. We had so many submissions! Great things are definitely happening in San Antonio and highlighting what the community and our children are doing to make each of our neighborhoods and school districts special is what Welcome Home is all about. Johnson High School once again won the Living Through Giving Toy Challenge for collecting the most toys. The trophy remains in their care for another year. I cannot find the words to thank them and every school that participates each year to make our drive bigger and bigger so that we can reach out to more and more children within San Antonio. These children and young adults have such great hearts and a

The Package Deal:

passion to help others. Talking with them about their goals for the future shows me what an amazing generation of adults we can look forward to in the near future. Welcome Home was founded on the principles of highlighting the achievements of our youth, nonproﬁts and other organizations. Students and teachers today make this an easy task. As you are going on your Spring Break vacations be sure and share with us your adventures. Remember, if you have a feel good story from your side of town, please let us know so that we can share it with our community. And remember to support the businesses that make this paper possible by letting them know you saw them in Welcome Home. One ﬁnal thought until next month... GO SPURS GO!!!

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(210) 348-8233 • Fax: (210) 497-7342 Article Submissions: articles@welcomehomesa.com Ad Inquiries Email: ads@welcomehomesa.com www.welcomehomesa.com

Directly Mailed To Over 60,000 Households & Businesses in 78232, 78248, 78255, 78256, 78257, 78258, 78259, 78260, & 78261 Zip Codes. Plus, 20,000 in Rack Distribution.

Welcome Home newspaper assumes no liability in advertising other than correction and reinsertion of like-size ad at no additional cost to our advertiser. The opinions stated by the writers or the information printed from other sources do not necessarily depict those of the publisher or advertisers. No liability is assumed. Welcome Home newspaper will not knowingly publish any advertisement which is illegal or misleading to its readers. All copy and type arrangements are subject to approval by the publisher. All stories and photos submitted become property of Welcome Home Editorial and Advertising content of Welcome Home newspaper is protected by the U.S. copyright law. Unauthorized use is prohibited. Publisher Russell Groomer Director Of Production Kristin Oliver Writer/Copy Editors Stefanie Young Nicky Rodriguez Production/Graphic Design Marie Ferrante Distribution Israel Vazquez

Administrative Assistant Brittany Oliver Prinda Jemente Dianne Grosso Staff Writers Debby Seguin Contributing Photographer Oscar McAnally Sales Representatives Patrice Long Denise Wirth

March 2016 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261

Contributing Writers Amy Rule Carla Burke Erin Kirwan Greg Potts Jason Gordon Jerod Jerry Laura Aplin Michelle Shaw Patti Cowsert Stephanie Sage Stephen Chavez Vincent Quidachay

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On The Cover

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exas isn’t known for long cold winters but it is known for its heat! Spring leapt at us early this year and temperatures are already on the rise. While most of us dread the summer heat Spring is a wonderful time in the Lone Star State. Spring Break comes along in the middle of the month giving everyone a much needed break after the holiday hustle and the bustle of the new year. Spring Break is also a precursor to the student dreaded STAAR testing. This year Spring Break and Easter coincide nicely. Egg hunts and Easter Bunny appearances starting getting announced in February. While we know these seventy degree temperatures won’t last Texans deﬁnitely ﬁnd the time to get outside during this month. With Summer break just a few months away schools are also preparing for GRADUATION and PROM.

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here’s a popular song by Brad Paisley called “Letter to Me”. Now that he is a grown man, he looks back on his youth and wants to give himself counsel. I thought I’d give it a try. Dear Me, When Jackson dares you to eat that worm in 3rd grade, don’t do it. In fact, when anyone dares you to do anything they haven’t actually done, they are just looking for free entertainment. When anyone dares you to do anything they HAVE actually done, and it turned out badly, they are testing your intelligence. For the sake of our future reputation, don’t fail the test. (For examples of people who did fail the test, I Can Help You If You Are . . . • Startup Businesses Clients • Growing Businesses Clients • Retired Clients Starting Biz • Taxpayers Who Previously Prepared Their Own Returns John Horton,CPA

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see America’s Funniest Videos, youtube: Search- fire/ beer, or any state prison). In 7th grade, when Miss Pritchard tells you to study for that test, study. I know there are a lot of distractions; FUN distractions. But those distractions aren’t going to get you where you want to go. It is important to spend some time having fun, but please, girlfriend, INVEST some time, too. When mom and dad tell you ANYTHING, listen, take notes, make copies, and refer to your notes as often as possible. Their advice will sound like arcane stuff no sane kid would take seriously but I’m telling you, it’s good stuff. Like picking up the toys outside so nobody falls and gets hurt? Yea, remember those 13 stitches? And like not laying in the sun? THAT one is costing me now. No skin cancer, but my crow’s feet have settled in for the long haul. There are even more important ones like don’t go to parties where they are drinking. Trust me. They drink, they do stupid things, they throw up. Wow, isn’t THAT impressive. And boys? Think of them like bees. When they are young, they are just looking for any available bright flower petals they can find. As they get older, (especially when daddy’s not paying his bills and mama’s no longer cooking his meals), he gets pickier. Be patient and the right one will find you. In the meantime, keep your petals closed. Sincerely, Me Debby Seguin, the mother of 2 bees and 1 flower, can be reached at writewell62@ yahoo.com

March 2016 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261

What Can You Do With $10, $20 or $50?

couple of years ago Welcome Home Director, Kristin Oliver, was given the news that her uncle, Mike, was diagnosed with Adult T Cell ALL Leukemia and Lymphoma. Mike is a San Antonio Fire Fighter, a loving husband, a friend and a rock for a lot of her family members. The news devastated her family. Her uncle received his bone marrow transplant in Summer of 2015 and is now on his way to recovery, albeit the road is slower than he’d like. Kristin wasn’t there for his treatments or for his fight with cancer, but has heard the fear in her family’s voice when they talked about it. She kept up with the blog her aunt wrote to keep everyone up-to-date on his health while they traveled to MD Anderson in Houston, for the best treatment possible. Once someone you love is facing cancer, the universe shoves a gleaming reminder in your face; everywhere you look, someone was fighting a type of blood cancer. In November the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) asked if Kristin Oliver would be willing to be a part of their Man and Woman of the Year Fundraising Campaign. She accepted, because she wanted the opportunity to do something that raised awareness about Mike’s fight and the fight so many others face. Kristin wanted his fight mean something; furthermore, she wanted to inhibit this disease from barging in and taking over more lives. There are several fire fighters in San Antonio that are fighting not just blood cancers but many other forms of cancer. Kristin has a goal with this campaign: raise

awareness for these fighters. If fifty thousand dollars can be raised, a research grant would be placed in the name of the San Antonio Fire Department and Mike Grosso. So, here’s the part where she asks you for money. If every reader of Welcome Home can donate $10.00 to this cause, a change CAN be made. Starting on March 31st, Kristin will begin raising money for LLS. 85% of the funds raised during this campaign go directly to research. The research conducted doesn’t just benefit blood cancer, but many different forms of cancer. Significant strides have been made in treatments based on LLS research. Below is an address and link where you can send any donation and look up more information about where your donations go to help those in need. www.mwoy.org/pages/sctx/sat16/koliver

What’s Happening With The Mayor?

Special To Welcome Home elcome to my weekly digest, which includes a recap of top issues and a look forward: I spent time in Washington D.C. for the annual SA to DC Chamber of Commerce trip. Over the course of the trip my main objective was to advocate for nonstop ﬂights between San Antonio and Reagan National Airport. Currently, federal law requires Congressional approval for an exemption to the Reagan Mayor Ivy Taylor reads to students with Ronald McDonald. National Airport perimeter rule Achievement show that children who grow which prohibits nonstop air transportation up with books in their homes reach a higher between Reagan and another airport that is level of education than those who do not. more than 1,250 statute miles away. Unfortunately, a recent study found that I believe San Antonio needs to be an while there are approximately 13 books exception. With a robust military presence, per child in middle income neighborhoods, easing travel between Military City, USA on average there is only one book per 300 and the Pentagon would reduce costs, children in low-income neighborhoods. save time, and increase the connectivity In an effort to help change this picture, I between our bases and the airport nearest to teamed up with local McDonald’s restaurant Washington, D.C. owners to hand out HarperCollins children’s I’d like to thank both the San Antonio books to Pre-K 4 SA students. The donation Chamber of Commerce and the Hispanic of these books will help promote literacy Chamber of Commerce for co-sponsoring and give our youth access to reading the trip, as well as IBC Bank’s Eddie materials. McDonalds also recently began Aldrete for chairing SA to DC. including a children’s book in every Happy In other news, studies from the Center Meal. for Improvement of Early Reading

March 2016 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261

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Hormones: How Will You live Your 2nd 50 Years?

By Donna Becker, D.O. Enhancement of Life (210) 545-5224 varian failure, the menopause when the body slowly declines until frailty and death, may begin as early as third decade. When the big three hormones, estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone begin to fade, the nervous system can become deranged. Progesterone, the first hormone to decline, may cause terrible insomnia, followed by exhaustion and irritability with unstable mood. Lack of testosterone may present as complete disdain for sex, lack of

motivation, an indifference to life. The last hormone to exit the body, estradiol, results in extreme vaginal dryness and the dreaded “foggy brain”. These symptoms may be very minor in some women with only sleep disturbance. Other women with more symptomatic complaints of moodiness may be prescribed an antidepressant or sleeping pills. I have seen this type of patient at the 15 minute free consult. “I don’t know if you can help

Discoveries Thru Vision By Erin Nevelow, O.D. Nevelow Eye Associates (210) 349-2437 • www.drsnevelow.com your child sees. Screenings can only do so Children’s Vision Problems ormally we write about children’s much.” In Texas, school aged children are only vision problems in August for back required to be screened in kindergarten, to school, or September when school screenings are normally done. However, in first, third, fifth and seventh grades. If a the last couple of months, we have had quite child develops vision problems between a few kids in here with significant vision these years, then they get missed. Also, problems that have never had eye exams school screenings only test distance vision. before. Their parents always ask me, “Why That’s fine if your child is nearsighted, but a farsighted child will see fine at distance and hasn’t this been caught before?” My usual answer is, “because you can’t have problems up close, especially learning rely on a vision screening at school or in a to read. Then we have to consider the other visual pediatrician’s office to truly determine how

Ceramic Cooking By Cotton Clark Jeff’s Backyard (210) 342-4760 owdy, Neighbor! When you think of cooking in the backyard, what comes to mind? A charcoal grill? A gas grill? How about a big, honkin’ BBQ offset smoker? All three are well known grilling systems, but there is another – ceramic – and you may be surprised at how effective it can be. Actually, ceramic cooking is not new. Clay pots were used for food and cooking

over 2,000 years ago in Europe, some 3,000 years ago in China, and even 4,000 years ago in India. In India and neighboring countries, this style of cooking evolved into the tandoor oven, which uses charcoal or wood to achieve cooking temperatures as hot as 900°F. The tandoor is still a popular cooking utensil throughout Southeast Asia, and you see it manifested in a growing list of popular foods in America, most notably

me” with eyes downcast, “My doctor says I am depressed”. As she slowly recounts the memory loss, lack of interest in everything, no libido, and disturbing mood changes, I can barely restrain myself from saying, “You’re not crazy! It’s just menopause. We can fix this!” By correcting the measured hormone deficiencies to the premenopausal level, sexual, mental, and physical well-being may be restored. Of course, not all women suffer symptoms of hormone decline as severely, and not all women need hormone restoration. Some women manage menopause by

skills beyond seeing 20/20 that are required for academic success. The following visual skills are needed for effective reading and learning1: Visual acuity: the ability to see clearly at all distances. Eye focusing: the ability to quickly and efficiently maintain clear vision when changing visual distances. Eye tracking: the ability to keep eyes on a moving target, or move from one target to another and back again. Eye teaming: basically using both eyes together, or having good depth perception. Eye-hand coordination: the ability to use visual information to direct the hands. Visual perception: the ability to organize images on a printed page into letters, words and ideas and to remember what is read. If a child is missing any of these important visual skills, they will have to work harder naan flatbreads and various kabobs. By around 300 AD, the Japanese incorporated some of the Chinese influences with its “mushikamado” cooker (“Mushi” meaning “steam,” and “kamado” meaning “oven” or “kiln”). Obviously, it evolved differently than the tandoor, but it retained similar attributes: earthen clay formed into a vessel of some sort then used with wood or charcoal to produce extreme heat for cooking. At the end of WWII, American servicemen noticed the Japanese people using the “kamado” cooker, and they became so enamored with it that they started bringing it home to the United States. One of these early ceramic fans was Ed Fisher, who started the Big Green Egg (BGE) Company in the early 1970s in Georgia.

exercise, weight control, and perhaps over the counter herbal preparations. I measure hormone levels and some women in their mid-fifties have levels of estradiol sufficient to maintain the vaginal tissues, without hot flashes, or even insomnia. Good for them! For the rest of us who don’t want to suffer, bio-identical hormone replacement may be the answer for the 2nd 50 years of your life. Although some studies support an increased risk of various cancers, blood clots, and stroke with any type of hormone replacement, we know that women may suffer these maladies whether they take hormones or not. 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. to achieve in school. So how do you know if your child is having vision problems? The most common signs are frequent eye rubbing or blinking, short attention span, headaches, and sitting to close to the television. However, the best way to tell if your child is having problems is to get them a comprehensive, dilated eye exam. All children should have an exam before starting kindergarten and then every year after that unless you notice a problem sooner. The most important tool your child has to achieve in school is their vision. If you have any questions about the topic in this article or any other visual questions please call Dr.’s John and Erin Nevelow at 210.349.2437. You can look us up online at www.drsnevelow.com or our facebook page. 1American Optometric Association: School aged vision: 6 to 18 years of age.

Since then, design improvements have made the BGE one of the most versatile cooking systems in or out of the kitchen. Instead of earthen clay, BGE now uses high fiber ceramics similar to those used on the Space Shuttle tiles, which in turn allows for temperatures of up to 1,200 °F. By using various accessory pieces, you can do a host of cooking on it: grilling, roasting, slow roasting, baking, and smoking. You can use radiant (direct) or convective (indirect) heat; either way, moisture retention is simply firstrate. As we like to say at Jeff’s Backyard, “you can cook anything from briskets to biscuits” on this thing! Come to Jeff’s Backyard to check out your Big Green Egg. Before long, you’ll be an Egghead, too!

Book Bargains Are Back! 14th Annual NEISD PTAs’ Used Book Sale Submitted Michelle Shaw he NEISD Council of PTAs is sponsoring the14th Annual Used Book Sale with the help and participation of the local PTAs in the North East Independent School District. The sale of more than 80,000 books will be held at Blossom Athletic Center in Littleton Gym, 12002 Jones Maltsberger Road, 78216. The book sale is the largest of its kind in the area and is not only a fundraising effort for PTAs throughout North East ISD, but is also a community service project. Prices are kept low, low, low to promote literacy in the

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home. The sale is one of the best bargains in town with softcover books priced at $.50 and hardcover books and DVDS/CDs at $1.00! The sale begins the second weekend in April and is a three day event: Friday, April 8th and Saturday, April 9th from 10 am to 6 pm and Sunday, April 10th from 11 am - 4 pm. Sunday is the ever popular bag sale day where a bag can be purchased for $15.00 and stuffed to the brim with all the books that can fit; additional bags can be purchased for $10 each. Cash and Mastercard/Visa are accepted. Please, no checks. Admission is

free. Readers’ favorite subjects are easy to find as more than twenty-five book categories are represented including: art, biography, business, classics/poetry/plays, comic books and graphic novels, computers, fiction, foreign language and travel, health and fitness along with self-help, history, military and politics, hobbies, how-to and crafts, horror, humor and games, music, mystery and thrillers, non-fiction, parenting and childcare, pets and animals, reference, religious and inspirational, romance, scifi and fantasy, sports, westerns, young

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adult, CDs and DVDs. The ENORMOUS selection of children’s books is divided into board books, picture books, leveled readers, chapter books, and series books. You name, we’ve got it. Used book sale proceeds will fund PTA projects such as the Blossom Scholarship Fund, Arts in Education, Health Education Awareness, Alcohol and Drug Education, Project Graduation, Bike Rodeos and many, many others that benefit students throughout NEISD. For more information email booksale@ necouncilpta.com.

March 2016 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261

Living and Breathing An Enjoyable Life By Amanda Burris IFE CHANGING FREEDOM! That is what Dr. Amanda Trott has given our family with her cutting edge treatment and care at Stone Oak Allergy,” said Frederick, Rahnae and Joshua of the Johnson Family. “For years we suffered with the miserable symptoms of seasonal allergies. Watching our son have problems with congestion and trouble sleeping, we turned to Dr. Trott. She is innovative, compassionate, caring and dedicated to helping each and every one of her patients as if they were her only one. We now have the freedom to be outdoors enjoying nature instead of being indoors, captive to our allergies, and our son can now participate in school sports. Try Dr. Amanda Trott as we did. You walk in as a patient and leave as family.” At Stone Oak Allergy, an enthusiastic and friendly staff, headed by Dr. Amanda Trott-Gregorio, is eager to welcome and assist old and new patients, to get them living a more enjoyable life, just like the Johnson family. While South Texas locals are more than familiar with sneezing, runny noses and the various other symptoms that are the consequence of allergies, Dr. TrottGregorio offers testing and treatments to manage these nuisances. “Since living here for the past few years, the biggest thing that I’ve noticed about the population of San Antonio is just how allergic patients are,” said Dr. Amanda TrottGregorio. “It’s rare that you meet someone that doesn’t complain of allergic symptoms,

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and yet, the majority go untreated and unevaluated and just kind of suffer through it. It is a shame because it really interferes with your quality of life.” Allergies, an abnormal reaction of the immune system to typically harmless substances, can not only cause unwanted symptoms but can also be the cause of asthma and eczema, which she also treats. Consequently, allergies and associated problems can keep many people from everyday activities, places and opportunities. As Dr. Trott-Gregorio explained, “This part of Texas is a really allergenic little piece of the world we love to call home. The San Antonio/Austin area is the only part of the United States with a winter pollen issue- cedar. We are more allergic here, as a population, than most of the world.” At Stone Oak Allergy, Dr. Trott-Gregorio and her team not only work with their patients on a personal level to find out the causes of the problems, but they also work to obtain the perfect solution specifically designed for each person. Whether it is treatment through avoidance, medication or injections, Stone Oak Allergy is determined to find the right solution for each person who walks through the door. “‘I got my life back’ is a phrase I hear almost daily from my patients,” said TrottGregorio. “It means living without the burden of allergy symptoms or breathing limitations. Why not feel good every day? We can make that happen.” Although allergies and asthma are the

most commonly treated conditions, Dr. Trott-Gregorio also sees patients for allergic skin disorders, chronic cough, non-allergic nasal symptoms, immune deficiencies, and patients who have recurrent infections. Her skills and expertise in these areas are not limited to any particular age, opening the door to even newborns, from which various mothers benefited. “My baby had a severe rash all over, especially on his face, since he was 2 days old, and we saw a pediatrician and a dermatologist who both told me to stop breastfeeding,” explained Melinda Rippy, mother of 9-month-old patient Luke. “I wanted to find a way to fix his rash and continue breastfeeding, and Dr. Trott was the first doctor who took the time to listen

and figure out a way to make both of those things happen. Now his rash is gone!” At Stone Oak Allergy, patients will feel right at home as they join Dr. Amanda TrottGregorio and her talented staff on a journey to enhance their lives. Visit their office on Sonterra Boulevard or call 210-494-0690 to schedule an appointment.

Stone Oak Allergy 155 E. Sonterra Blvd., Suite 101 (210) 494-0690 www.stoneoakallergy.com

Khaki & Plaid Gala Raised Money For Families Submitted By Stephen Chavez ack in September, ten servant leaders answered the call and said “yes” to help bring hope to families who were trying to send their children to a Catholic school in the Archdiocese of San Antonio, but were unable to afford it. These ten leaders comprised the Khaki & Plaid Gala Homecoming Court Nominees. Their four month long journey to raise funds and awareness for Hope for the Future and Catholic schools culminated on Saturday, January 23rd, at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center at the 7th Annual Khaki & Plaid Gala Homecoming 2016. In total, the event was estimated to have raised over $760,000, surpassing the goal set forth by event Executive Chairs, Bruce and Cindy Vaio. Along with Honorary Chairs Clarence and Tina Kahlig, who were models of service in this community, the 2016 gala was the most successful to-date. “Because of your support, your prayers and your commitment, there are 2,200 grateful and hope-filled children, who are thriving in their Catholic school classrooms today,” said Archbishop Gustavo GarcíaSiller during the event’s opening remarks in front of 1,300 guests. Hope for the Future is currently providing $2.5 million in tuition assistance for the 2015-16 school year. It is through events such as the Khaki & Plaid Gala, that funds are raised to impact so many families and children. “Our children can truly encounter Christ in their families and parishes, but also in their

lessons, teachers and their daily encounters with their Catholic school classmates,” said Archbishop Gustavo. “I am still in amazement over the tremendous work all ten Homecoming Court Nominees accomplished over the last few months,” said Tracy Ladgenski, Director of Hope for the Future. The Homecoming Court Nominees held numerous events during their “campaigns” including concerts, dinners and lunches, home receptions and even a chili cook-off. “While fundraising was at the core of the Homecoming Court, what I believe as an equally powerful accomplishment is having ten community leaders tell their own stories about Catholic school education and how Hope for the Future can help children have the same experiences they did while attending a faith-based school,” said Ladgenski. The 2016 Homecoming Court consisted of Fabius Bascon, SAWS; Patti Jo Bliss, Frost Bank; Paula Dickson, Community Leader; Bryan Grundhoefer, WellMed; Tim Laudadio, Bell Consulting, Inc.; Kevin McLoughlin, Nationwide Insurance; Janet Pollock, Alamo Group Inc.; Anabel Rodriguez, Community Leader; Sr. Jane Ann Slater, Archdiocese of San Antonio and BJ Stewart, GDC Marketing & Ideation. The event climaxed with the crowning of the Khaki & Plaid Gala Homecoming 2016 King and Queen. On-hand to crown the winners were the 2015 King, Fr. Eric Ritter and Queen, Diana Barrios-Trevino. The winners were selected based upon total

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dollars raised and certified by the gala’s official accounting firm, Tsakopulos Brown Schott & Anchors. Former FOX San Antonio news anchor, Michael Valdes, announced the 2016 King and Queen as Bryan Grundhoefer and Paula Dickson. Following the Khaki & Plaid Gala Royalty announcement, Austin-based band, The Nightowls, helped to fill up the dance floor for the remainder of the evening. “The event was an overwhelming success and would not have been possible without the tremendous efforts of all the staff, schools and volunteers,” said Ladgenski. A very special Khudos to the Khaki & Plaid Gala Khommittee of volunteers who make it their mission to see that the event is success. Without the dedication and passion from the khommittee the event would not be as plaidtabulous as it was.” Plans are already underway for the 2017 Khaki & Plaid Gala which will mark the ten year anniversary of Hope for the Future

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Khaki & Plaid Gala Homecoming Queen Paula Dickson, Community Leader and King, Bryan Grundhoefer, President of WellMed.

Four SVHS Seniors Named Academic All-State Submitted By Jason Gordon ongratulations to the four members of the 2015-16 Smithson Valley High volleyball team who were named Academic All-State. To be named to this prestigious list, players must be seniors who maintain a grade point average of 94 or above and be positive role models not only on their campus but in the community. The team ﬁnished 32-11 last season and advanced to the bi-district round of the playoffs. They are coached by Liana Gombert. Michael Wahl is the SVHS principal. “These four young ladies are excellent

examples of what a student-athlete can strive to be,” Gombert said. “They put in the time they need to be successful in the classroom, on the court and they are exemplary members of the student body and the SVHS community.”

Pictured at right: (l-r) are SVHS Academic All-State team members Paige Hall, Victoria Gibbens, Alejandra DeLeon and Lauren Nicola.

SVHS Senior Soccer Player Signs With Incarnate Word

Pictured left to right are SVHS head soccer coach Jason Adkins, Annika Fields and her parents Michael and Lisa Fields.

Submitted By Jason Gordon nnika Fields will be able to continue to play the sport she loves close to home after signing with the University of the Incarnate Word on February 5th. Fields was named First-Team All-District each of the past two seasons as a defender for the Smithson Valley High soccer team and has helped lead the Rangers to three

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district titles in a row and a 26-game district unbeaten streak. Fields drew high praise from SVHS head coach Jason Adkins. “Annika is one of the best defensive players I’ve ever coached without exception,” Adkins said. “She has a great attitude, blazing speed, and she’s a physical player – all of those things will carry over and give her success at the next level.”

Johnson Ranch 2nd Annual Roper Spelling Bee Submitted By Patti Cowsert ohnson Ranch Elementary held their 2nd Annual Roper Spelling Bee on January the 20th, and after a very grueling spell-off between the ﬁnal two contestants, 5th grader Cassandra Ramirez emerged as the champion! Giving her some very good competition was runner-up Sam Budnik, also a 5th grader. Cassandra will advance to represent Johnson Ranch Elementary at the 63rd Annual San Antonio Express-News Spelling Bee on Saturday, February 22nd at Laurie Auditorium on the Trinity University Campus. Congratulations to all of the participants, and Johnson Ranch Elementary would especially like to wish

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Pictured is Cassandra Ramirez at the 2nd Annual Roper Spelling Bee.

Cassandra the very best at the competition!

March 2016 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261

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

The Best Canine Athletes In The World

he 2016 Summer Olympics may be in Reno but not for the best canine athletes in the world. They will be competing in their own Olympics in LaagSoeren, Netherlands, April 13th - 17th and our very own local resident, Catherine Laria, will be representing Team USA! Catherine, owner

of K9 Country Club, in Bulverde has been trialing and training dogs for over 20 years. They have competed all over the country and Mexico but this will be their ﬁrst time on Team USA. Throughout the years if Catherine and her dogs were not traveling for Agility or Sheep Dog trials they are home training and teaching. The sport of agility is the fastest growing dog sport in America. People of all ages and dogs of all kinds can spend time together running, climbing, and zig-zagging

The Chapters of Retirement

By Eric Zeitler Client Centric Wealth Management (210) 807-7599 he journey to and through retirement phenomenon of your household expenses occurs gradually, like successive growing along with your pay raises. Chapter 2 (the early sixties). The chapters in a book. Each chapter has anticipation builds at this point; you start its own things to consider. Chapter 1 (the fifties). At this stage of to think about the process of retiring and life, retirement becomes less like a far-off the precise financial and lifestyle steps dream and more like a forthcoming reality. involved. You also begin to think about the You begin to think about when you can near future – not only what you will do next, retire, and about taking the right steps to but how you will do it. This is also a time to retire comfortably. During your fifties, you dial down risk in your portfolio, especially may contend with “lifestyle creep” – the if a bear market occurs right before you

their way through obstacle courses. There are many organizations who sponsor this sport. Catherine and her border collie, Blizzard, will be competing at the International Federation of Cynological Sports (IFCS) World Championships. Twenty dogs from all over the US will be competing in various games and jump heights. In fact, FIVE of those going are from TEXAS! That is a huge representation of our great state. Whether or not you want to compete at the world level, agility takes a lot of time to go from beginning to competition and there is no better place to get started than at K9 Country Club. You can ﬁnd everything you need to go from being introduced to the sport all the way to competing at the local, national, or even international level. Say you just want to have the coolest dog at the dog park. There are ways to make agility not

only fun but safe for your canine partner. Agility is also a great way to expend some of that excess energy if you have a very active pet. If you would like to watch the IFCS World Championships they will be streaming live at www.cynosport.tv Help cheer on Catherine, Blizzard, and Team USA all the way to gold! But they need your help! Costs for a team of 20 exceeds $50,000. Show your support with a tax-deductible contribution by visiting www.usdaa.com/ifcsteamusa.cfm. To help Catherine and Blizzard directly, contact K9 Country Club at 830-980-8476 or email k9countryclub@dogmail.com. Fundraising efforts are still underway. For more information on classes, lessons, or the Whirlwind Border Collies visit www. k9countryclub.net.

retire. You have little time to recover from a downturn. Chapter 3 (the start of retired life). The ﬁrst year or so of retirement is akin to a “honeymoon phase” – you have the time and perhaps the money to pursue all kinds of dreams. The key is not to spend wildly. Lifestyle creep also affects new retirees; free time often means more chances to spend money. Chapter 4 (the mid-sixties through the late seventies). This is when some people get a little restless. It is also when some people ﬁnd their retirement savings growing disturbingly smaller. You may get bored with all-leisure, all-the-time and want to volunteer or work on your own terms, health permitting. Chapter 5 (eighty & afterward). The last chapter of retirement is one frequently

characterized by the sharing of legacies and life lessons, a new perspective on the process of living and aging, and deeper engagement (or reengagement) with children and grandchildren. This is also the time when you should think about your ﬁnancial legacy, and review or update your estate plan so that when you leave this world, things are in good order and your wishes are followed. Before and during your retirement, it is wise to keep in touch with a ﬁnancial professional who can guide and consult you when questions about income, investments, wealth protection, and wealth transfer arise. Eric Zeitler and Eric Weissgarber an offer securities through Sigma Financial Corporation. Member FINRA/SIPC. Client Centric Wealth Management is independent of Sigma Financial Corporation and SPC.

There Are Veteran’s Benefits That Can Help Pay For Independent Living Or Assisted Living

By Michelle Houriet, Executive Director Independence Hill Retirement Resort Community (210) 209-8956 f you are an American wartime Veteran or Numerous residents have mentioned how a surviving spouse, you could be entitled this benefit has allowed them to continue to to the Veteran’s Aid and attendance live independently while giving them the benefit. This benefit is paid in addition extra help they now need. to the monthly pension. It is available to Here’s what the daughter of an individuals who may require assistance Independence Hill Resident said, “This with various activities of daily living (to was a tremendous help financially for my include bathing, dressing, etc), who live mother. It has allowed her to have the extra in a full service retirement community, money from this benefit over and above her assisted living community, personal care pension and social security income. It had home or skilled nursing facility. This could been a blessing to get her into Independence also provide assistance for those who have a Hill Assisted Living several years ago when need for personal in-home care. she decided that she no longer wanted to live

Step Into Decorating By Mary Lozano-Jenkins The Jenkins Group, Inc. (210) 490-0161 he cold is ﬁnally gone and we can begin to bring life back into our plants and decorate our homes. The markets this year are ﬁlled with bling and glitter.

Just like glitter has entered our adult manicures and pedicures, it has also entered our fabrics, upholstery as well as drapes. Mirrors, mirrors and more mirrors remain popular with furnishings and accessories.

March 2016 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261

alone. Mom has improved so much under their care that she will be now be moving into their independent living community. Her Veterans Aid and attendance benefit will follow her and continue to provide her this financial help.” This benefit that is administered by the VA, is one of the most misunderstood. There are veterans and spouses who have been told they do not qualify to receive this, when in fact they do. We have referred many seniors to the Veteran’s Administration experts who have helped them understand the qualifications and processes needed to apply for and receive this amazing and well deserved benefit. They will also analyze individual qualifications and direct people

to other benefits that could possibly be an even better solution. Independence Hill will be hosting an informational session with an Aid and Attendance Veteran’s Benefit expert at 10 am on March 22nd at 20500 Huebner Rd. They will discuss this benefit and how to determine if you are eligible. Please call (210) 209-8956 by March 21st to RSVP. At Independence Hill we are all about keeping our residents as informed as possible so they may enjoy their independence in comfort for as long as possible. Come by for a tour so you too can personally experience the difference. Knowledge is Power!

Rugs are coming in with a lot of color and a lot of texture. We have been very busy with organizing Magical Makeovers and remodeling. Clients are updating their homes with new accessories as well as new colors. Orange and lime green are hot, as are hot pinks and hot blues. Clearing your space and making changes is something that might not be fun. However, we open the good chi into our lives by doing this. What are you trying to achieve in your decorating? What new mood? Who are you entertaining? Are you ready for change?

Please call us and we can come over and assist in developing your new design and decorating plan. Your Home is Your Castle! For more information, contact Mary Lozano-Jenkins, Registered Interior Designer at mjkg1@aol.com or 210490-0161 or Jessica C. Jenkins, Interior Decorator at jessicacjenkins@gmail.com or 210-464-1519 or Jennifer Jenkins, Interior Decorator at jennjenkins720@ aol.com or 210-325-3772. Visit Jenkins Interior Design Group online at www. thejenkinsinteriordesigngroup.com.

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Valero Junior Texas Open Named AJGA Most Improved Tournament Of The Year

Submitted by Stephanie Sage he American Junior Golf Association has presented the 2015 Valero Junior Texas Open with the Most Improved Tournament of the Year Award. In 2015, the Valero Texas Open came on board as the title sponsor of the event and helped to provide a PGA TOUR experience for the players. Each year, the AJGA presents awards to the tournaments with the best individual hospitality, Junior-Am Fundraising Tournament, charitable giving and volunteer

base. Awards are also given to the events with the highest media and social media participation. Finally, the AJGA recognizes the year’s most outstanding golf professional, superintendent and general manager, as well as the most improved event, best new event, best Junior All-Star tournament, best Invitational and overall tournament of the year. Tournament awards for the 2015 season will be presented on-site at the 2016 tournament. “We made signiﬁcant strides this past year to elevate the stature of the event- not the

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.

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• Email articles to: articles@welcomehomesa.com

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• Announcements (births, engagements, weddings, anniversaries and grand openings) • 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.

least of which was moving the tournament to TPC San Antonio and the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa.” In 2015, the event provided a PGA TOUR tournament feel with a press conference, player lockers, players’ lounge area, pairings reveal party, access to the beautiful TPC San Antonio and JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa facilities which included a pool, tennis courts, workout facilities and several restaurants. In addition, the Boys and Girls Division champions were awarded exemptions into the 2016 Junior PGA Championship. “The event provided the juniors with a special PGA TOUR experience and we are thrilled to partner with such a historic event as the Valero Texas Open,” said AJGA Senior Regional Director, South Central, Darren Nelson. With full support from the TPC San Antonio facility and the Valero Texas Open, players, parents and coaches enjoyed a week geared towards offering an experience unlike any other. Local community members came out to support the Achieving Competitive Excellence (ACE) Grant and local charities through the Valero Junior Texas Open Junior-Am Fundraising Tournament. The event will celebrate its 25th year on the AJGA schedule from July 11-14 in 2016, solidifying itself as an opportunity for local juniors to compete at a high level of competition. ABOUT THE AJGA The American Junior Golf Association is a 501(c)(3) nonproﬁt organization dedicated to the overall growth and development of young men and women who aspire to earn college golf scholarships through competitive junior golf. The AJGA provides valuable exposure for college golf scholarships, and has an annual junior membership (boys and girls, ages 12-18) of nearly 6,500 members from 49 states and more than 50 foreign countries. Through initiatives like the Achieving Competitive Excellence (ACE) Grant, a ﬁnancial assistance program, and Leadership Links, a service-oriented platform that teaches juniors charitable-giving skills, the AJGA fosters the growth of golf’s next generation. Taylor Made-adidas Golf became the

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AJGA’s National Sponsor in 2016 after more than 25 years of support. Rolex, which is in its fourth decade of AJGA support, became the inaugural AJGA Premier Partner in 2004. In 2007, after 12 years of support, Ralph Lauren became the AJGA’s second Premier Partner. AJGA alumni have risen to the top of amateur, collegiate and professional golf. Former AJGA juniors have compiled more than 600 victories on the PGA and LPGA Tours. AJGA alumni include Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson, Jordan Spieth, Rickie Fowler, Bubba Watson, Webb Simpson, Sergio Garcia, Hunter Mahan, Dustin Johnson, Patrick Reed, Zach Johnson, Justin Thomas, Stacy Lewis, Vicky Hurst, Alison Lee, Lexi Thompson, Inbee Park, Paula Creamer, Brittany Lincicome, Cristie Kerr and Morgan Pressel. Contact: Tim Jackman, AJGA (678) 425-1789, tjackman@ajga.org ABOUT THE VALERO TEXAS OPEN The Valero Texas Open is the 6th oldest professional tournament in golf world-wide, the 3rd oldest on the PGA TOUR and the longest held in the same city. In 2012, the tournament celebrated its 90th anniversary. It’s list of champions includes some of the greatest names in golf history: Walter Hagen, Byron Nelson, Ben Hogan, Sam Snead, Arnold Palmer, Ben Crenshaw, Hale Irwin, Lee Trevino, Nick Price, Justin Leonard, Zach Johnson, Adam Scott, and 2015 Champion Jimmy Walker, to name a few. The Valero Texas Open is always driven by its charitable mission - to give back to the community. In the tournament’s previous 92-year history through 2014, $94.5 Million had been raised for charity -- $90.5 Million of which had been raised since Valero became the title sponsor in 2002. The 2015 tournament raised $10.4 million for charity, making us proud yet humbled to become only the fourth PGA TOUR event to eclipse the $100 Million milestone in funds raised for charity. Valero Texas Open o:210.345.3839, f:210.345.3853 stephanie@ValeroTexasOpen.com PO Box 690330 San Antonio, Texas 78269 April 1824, 2016: Website Facebook Twitter

March 2016 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261

Local Lamb From The Lone Star State! By Tanji Patton Goodtaste.tv have BIG news to share with you… Goodtaste with Tanji will be a television series next spring sponsored by Sysco Foods! As we enter our eighth year of producing our online show at Goodtaste. tv, we are grateful to you for your ongoing support. Without it, our television show would not be possible. The show Goodtaste with Tanji will feature wonderful stories from fabulous restaurants in San Antonio, Houston, Austin and the Hill Country. We’ll entice you to dine out! Also, we’ll include some wonderful wine finds as well. We’ll be seen on KPRC in Houston, WOAI in San Antonio, KEYE in Austin, KFDM

in Beaumont and KGBT in the Valley. Who knows, maybe even other markets as well! After all, who doesn’t love dining out in Texas! There is a delicious protein trending if you do happen to be dining out. If meat is on the menu in 2016, you really can’t lose with lamb. Fact is, a number of top eateries from around Texas are already experimenting with this trendy protein. A staple of the Mediterranean diet (which limits red meat consumption), locallysourced lamb products are a lean, hearthealthy option for meals with virtually no carbs whatsoever! Love thy lamb…When shopping for that

Crawfish Season By Blake Groomer Groomer’s Seafood (210) 377-0951 reak out the corn on the cob and your potatoes because crawfish season is in full swing down here at Groomer’s Seafood! You are sure to hear about your friends firing up their boiling pots on the weekends during the peak of the crawfish season, and why not join in on the fun? Lucky for you, that “peak” is right now! March, April, and May have the ideal temperatures and rain amounts for our guys over in Louisiana to harvest the best crawfish there is to find, and Groomer’s

Seafood trucks them straight to our store for you to pick up for your weekend boil. Because crawfish is a live product, we operate on a pre-order basis so there isn’t any waste of delicious mudbugs. Groomer’s makes pre-ordering a simple and painless process. To ensure you’ll have your order, give us a call on the Monday or Tuesday of the week you are having your boil (Between our hours of 9 am and 4:30 pm). We’ll take your name, number, how many sacks you need (each sack is about 35 pounds) and

perfect cut, look for those with a firm, fine texture and a pinkish center. Organic, 100% grass-fed lamb is the gold standard, which contains a lower overall fat content, yet still delivers that moist and tender tasting experience we’re after. Interesting to note, traditional Chinese medicine makes mention of lamb as a warming agent to the body, aiding with blood circulation…who knows! Maybe that’s why it’s such a popular winter-time delicacy. Visit Goodtaste online to try some of these ideas at home: Texas Lamb Duo: A tantalizing Hill Country combo of Rosemary Grilled Lamb Chops and Malbec Braised Lamb Shoulder from Executive Chef Ross Burtwell of the Cabernet Grill – part of Cotton Gin Village in Fredericksburg, TX. Plated with a bleu cheese/white bean ragout. Lamb Ham: This ‘Lamb Ham’ from Chef Peter Maffei of Finn & Porter at the Hilton Austin is deboned, rolled and tied much like

you would a roasted ham. The outer crust is coated with a mixture of ground fennel, coriander and chili flake… Colorado Rack Of Lamb: Pan seared Colorado Lamb Rack from Executive Chef Eduardo Guizar at *17, the on-site restaurant at The Sam Houston Hotel in Houston, TX. Chef plated his finished product with baked sweet potatoes & seasoned asparagus in a beautiful Muscat grape demi glaze! Braised Lamb Shanks: Cook this rangefed lamb from Boudro’s Texas Bistro ‘low and slow’ in the oven. There is a photo of it plated on my site with a buttery Pappardelle Pasta cooked al dente and seasoned with fresh herbs that looks amazing! 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.

credit card to hold the order. Then we’ll take care of the rest! First thing Friday morning our expert fishmongers will personally hand sort your order and have it all boxed up and ready for you to pick it up! If it’s your first time boiling crawfish, it may seem like a bit of a daunting task, but fear not because that’s where Giby’s Fish Camp Crawfish Boil comes in! Developed by our patriarch Gilbert Groomer, our crawfish boil combines the freshest all natural ingredients to give you the best Cajun flavor you’ll find outside of Louisiana. Perhaps the best part, especially if you’re health conscious, is that Giby’s Fish Camp contains much less salt than other boils giving you all the flavor you

want without all the negatives that come with too much salt. Our expert fishmongers will be equipped to give you any further information you may need upon pick up, such as how to store them, how to purge them, or even just how to eat them! A crawfish boil is by far one of the best times to share with friends and family! Sitting back enjoying each other’s company, while peeling some fantastic Louisiana mudbugs paired with corn and potatoes is one of the finer pleasures in life! I know it’s definitely going to be a weekly occurrence at my place! Give us a call at 210-377-0951 to place your preorder before I get them all!

San Antonio Symphony Announces 2016-2017 Season Submitted by Laura Aplin he San Antonio Symphony is excited to announce its third season at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts led by Music Director Sebastian Lang-Lessing. The Symphony shines the spotlight on 14 awe-inspiring Classics Series concerts; a Mozart winter festival; and six eclectic Pops Series concerts offering a wide range of talent—fantastic pianists, superb singers, world-class violinists, a Rock ’n’ Roll legend, a sublime guitarist, high flying aerialists, and more —all contributing towards an unforgettable 2016-2017 season. “Each year, we continue to raise the bar to the next level and this upcoming season will be our best yet due to the dedication and hard work of our musicians plus an amazing lineup of diverse soloists presented at the multitude of events we have planned this season,” said David Gross, San Antonio Symphony President. “We look forward to celebrating our third season at the Tobin Center.” Season tickets for the 2016-2017 concert season officially go on sale on February 3 at a private special event held at the Tobin Center, at which processing fees will be waived during the evening for renewing

subscribers only. New and returning subscribers can call the Tobin Box Office at (210) 223-8624 to secure preferred seats and waiving of processing fees by the Symphony’s Early-Bird deadline of March 4th. Single tickets will go on sale to the general public in August and can be purchased by calling the Tobin Center Box Office at (210) 223-8624 or visiting sasymphony.org. Programs and artists are subject to change without notice. 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. Follow The San Antonio Symphony on Twitter at @sasym, Instagram @ sasymphony and Facebook San Antonio Symphony for updated news and information. Go to www.sasymphony. org to sign up for the email newsletter or request to be added to the distribution list by emailing tickets@sasymphony.org.

March 2016 • Welcome Home • 78260/78261

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SVHS Senior Bachman Signs With Cornell University

Smithson Valley NJROTC Helps Celebrate Chick-Fil-A’s Grand Opening

SVHS Senior Reagan Bachman signs with Cornell University.

Submitted By Jason Gordon eagan Bachman is taking her talents to the Ivy League. Bachman, a star cross-country and track and field athlete for Smithson Valley High School, signed a national letter of intent with Cornell University on February 5th. Bachman helped guide the SVHS crosscountry team to the UIL State Meet in each of the past two seasons. Bachman was named to the Cross-Country All-State Team for her prowess on the course and to the Cross-Country Academic All-State Team

for her excellence in the classroom in 2015. In track and field, Bachman was a member of SVHS’ mile-relay team that qualified for state in 2014. She also made it to the regional level in both the 800-meters and the mile-relay in 2015. “Reagan’s willingness to take our younger athletes under her wing has put us over the top as a team the past two seasons,” said SVHS head coach Brittney Lanehart. “She’s very physically gifted as an athlete, but her attributes go way beyond that as a leader, and that’s what makes her special.”

Pictured is the SVHS NJROTC and President of Chick-fil-A, Dan Cathy.

Submitted By Vincent Quidachay n Thursday, January 28th the Smithson Valley NJROTC cadets boarded a bus at 6am and headed to Hwy 281 and Evans Road, to help celebrate the new Chick-fil-A during their grand opening. The morning started off with their Armed and Unarmed Drill Teams performing. Then the President of Chick-fil-A, Mr. Dan Cathy, played the Star Spangled Banner with his trumpet as

the cadets and a few fourth graders from a nearby school helped raise the National Ensign. Afterward, the restaurant owners treated all of the cadets to some drinks and a hot and fresh chicken biscuit. “The best part was when the president of the company came out and spoke with the cadets. He was very friendly and then he took some selfies with the cadets,” commented CDR Vince Quidachay, USN RET.

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Creative Minds Unite At FIRST LEGO League Regional Qualifier Submitted By Jason Gordon IRST (For Inspiration of Science and Technology) LEGO League’s goal is to have tomorrow’s innovators practicing imaginative thinking and teamwork. All of this and more was on display on January 30th at Spring Branch Middle School’s FIRST LEGO League qualifying event. Twenty-four teams from Comal ISD, as well as other San Antonio-area districts, were vying for eight coveted spots to compete at the Alamo Regional Championships on March 12th at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio. All eight teams that advanced to regionals were from Comal ISD schools – Goodwin Frazier Elementary (Techno Cats), Mountain Valley Middle (Retro Robotics), Startzville Elementary (Mockingjays), Garden Ridge Elementary (Paws for a Cause), Garden Ridge Elementary (Food Fight Rangers), Bill Brown Elementary (Trailblazer Robonauts – Chewie), Bill Brown Elementary (Trailblazer Robonauts – Yoda), and Specht Elementary (Trashinators). Guided by adult coaches, many of whom are teachers, FIRST LEGO League teams research a real-world problem and are challenged to develop a solution. The FIRST LEGO League project mission this season is to make less trash or improve the way people handle the trash we make. The TRASH TREK Challenge asked teams to explore the hidden but fascinating world of trash – from collection, to sorting, to smart production, and reuse. They also had to invent a solution to help our trash problem and create their own LEGO MINDSTORMS robot to accomplish trashthemed “missions” on a tabletop playing field. “It’s great to see these students having so much fun while they learn to apply science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) concepts, plus a big dose of imagination, to solve a problem,” said Taylor Keller, Comal ISD Science Curriculum Coordinator and event coordinator. “They develop critical thinking and team-building skills, basic STEM applications, and even presentation skills, when they show their creative solutions to the judges.” The event was made up of 20 elementary level teams and four middle school level teams. Goodwin Frazier Elementary School’s “Techno Cats” team was the first place overall champion at the Spring Branch Middle School event. The overall championship meant Goodwin Frazier scored well in all four judging categories: robot competition, robot design, project design and core values (how the group works together as a team to solve an impromptu problem). Goodwin Frazier team members identified a way to help reduce the use of Styrofoam in the campus cafeteria. Styrofoam is a nonbiodegradable product. “It was amazing,” said Debra Cruz, Goodwin Frazier teacher and team coach. “The kids were very excited. The teams put in so many hours to meet the four judging criteria. It was so exciting to win the first place trophy. Our goal now is definitely to win at the regional level in San Antonio.” Startzville Elementary School won the Global Innovation Award. Their project was

Members of the Goodwin Frazier Elementary “Techno Cats” FIRST LEGO League team won first place, pictured left to right, Jacob Salmeron, Aaden Thomas, Avelinn Hicks, Abigail Finn, Brayden Sealey, Braydon Durst, Camille Lind.

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Fourth-grade student Noah Aguilar at Indian Springs Elementary, works on his team’s robot at Spring Branch Middle School’s FIRST LEGO League regional qualifying event.

based on how trash in classroom desks could lead to problems such as insect infestations. “Our idea on how to ﬁx the problem was to build a trash box connected to each desk with binder rings,” team member Valerie Hospers said. “At the end of each day every student would empty out the trash box and reconnect it for the next day. The judges really liked our idea and said we did a great job. I was so happy when I found out we won a trophy because this was my ﬁrst time doing FIRST LEGO league.” Nearly 100 teams will compete at the regional level March 12th. Only the top two teams at regionals will advance to the FIRST LEGO League World Festival in St. Louis in April. “We’re thrilled this year we’ll have eight teams representing our district,” Keller said. “It’s an awesome extracurricular activity that combines critical thinking and collaboration in an outside-the-box academic environment. The students involved in FIRST LEGO League will have a great future foundation set in science, technology, engineering, and math.” Easter, Spring Break & Fiesta Week All Fill Fast. Book Your Pet Today

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Military Homecoming Brings Johnson Drill and Dance Cheers, Tears At Indian Springs Teams Win Big At Showmakers Submitted By Jason Gordon hristmas came a little bit late for the McMullin family this season – but by the look on everyone’s faces Wednesday, their greatest present arrived right on time. Army Surgeon Lt. Col. Neil McMullin, who had been stationed in Kuwait since September, pulled off a surprise homecoming visit to see his fourth grade daughter Audrey at Indian Springs Elementary on Jan. 27th. The staff at Indian Springs helped pull off the strategic maneuver, as the entire fourth grade class was assembled in the combined learning center. Lt. Col. McMullin, his wife Sarah and other family members were hidden nearby. When it was announced “we have a special guest today” and Audrey’s dad emerged, she immediately ran and jumped into his arms as her classmates stood and cheered. Lt. Col. McMullin, a 13-year veteran, previously toured in Afghanistan in 2010. “I’m always a little nervous coming home,” McMullin said. “Everyone’s changed. You don’t know how you’re going to fit back in and integrate with your family. A day like this helps take away a lot of that nervousness – you know you’re back, you’re in a safe place, you’re appreciated and really loved.” The McMullin’s have a total of five children, four who attend Comal ISD campuses. Ainsley and Sydney are at Smithson Valley High, Zach is at Smithson Valley Middle, and two-year-old Finley is the youngest of the bunch. Lt. Col. McMullin also pulled a surprise visit to Smithson Valley Middle later in the day during Zach’s lunch break. “It’s really hard to put into words how it is when he’s gone,” said mom Sarah

C Fourth grade student, Audrey McMullin gives her dad, Lt. Col. Neil McMullin a big hug after his surprise return from Kuwait.

Audrey McMullin gives her dad, Lt. Col. Neil McMullin a big kiss.

McMullin. “The unknown of what he’s experiencing is the most stressful part. It’s such a relief to have him home.” Perhaps Audrey put it best when asked to describe what it’s like to have her daddy home. “When he’s gone for a really long time our house feels empty,” Audrey said. “With him home the house will feel whole again.”

Friday Nite Live: Students Have A Blast, Parents Get A Date Night

Submitted By Jason Gordon n February 2nd, 2016 Comal ISD’s Community Education Department started a new district-wide program called Friday Nite Live. It provides a fun, safe, supervised events for kids and a well-deserved night off for parents. Currently, Friday Nite Live events take place at Indian Springs Elementary, Bill Brown Elementary and Church Hill Middle every Friday night while school is in session. Friday Nite Live is only $12 per child and is open to all students in the community between the ages of kindergarten through fifth grade. Students from other districts are also welcome and each event lasts from 6:30-10:30 p.m. “Each event incorporates a different theme and includes sports, games, contests, crafts, face painting, music, a live DJ and so much fun,” said Charlotte Muniz, Community Education Project Manager. “Parents can have peace of mind, knowing their children are having a blast in a safe and secure environment.” A local police officer is assigned to each

Submitted By Carla Burke ongratulations to the Johnson High School Belles’ Drill Team and the Legacies Dance Team who competed at The Showmakers of America dance competition at Alamo Heights High School on February 6th. They faced tough competition from around the districts, but walked away with high acclaim! The Legacies won the Sweepstakes Judges Award, Best Showmanship (Jazz, Kick, Contemporary), Best Choreography (Jazz, Kick, Contemporary), Best Precision (Jazz, Kick, Contemporary), Best Entertainment (Jazz, Kick, Contemporary), Creative Costuming (Kick), 1st place Jazz, 1st place Kick, 1st place Contemporary, 1st place in the Small Varsity Division Line of Champions, and Pinnacle Award (Best overall team for entire competition!) The Belles won the Sweepstakes Judges Award, Best Showmanship (Jazz, Pom, Military, Hip Hop), Best Technique (Pom), Best Precision (Pom and Military), Best Entertainment (Pom), Creative Costuming (Military), 1st place Military, 1st place Jazz, 1st place Pom, 1st place Hip Hop and 1st place in the Junior Varsity Division Line of Champions. Other winners included Duet #1, Victoria Nicolai and Mikayla Gonzalez

Pictured left to right, Presley Rau and Kaitlyn Drew from Clear Springs Elementary in a photo booth at a Friday Nite Live Event held at Church Hill Middle School.

event. Trained staff facilitates the activities. Children must be signed in and signed out by a parent or guardian from each event. Concessions are available for an additional charge and include pizza, sports drinks, soda, chips, applesauce, fruit snacks, pickles, candy and glow novelty items.

Pictured from left to right, Katie Bates, Amanda Burke, Meredith Floyd, Janie Bila and Karen Bogush.

won 2nd place while Ava Reynolds and Mikayla Gonzalez won 1st place for Duet #2. Solo winners included Taylor Dickson for 1st place in 9th-10th grade and Katelyn Andreassen won 1st place for 11th- 12th grade. Next in line for solo finalists went to Katie Bates.

Multiple Comal ISD Students Named To Texas All-State Band Submitted By Jason Gordon anyon High’s David Churchwell, and Smithson Valley High’s Garrett Snowden and Natalie Morales were named to the 2016 Texas All-State Band. It was the second straight year Snowden, a sophomore, was named All-State. They performed in San Antonio, Saturday, February 13th at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center as part of the Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) Convention. All-State students participated in three days of rehearsals directed by renowned conductors during the convention. “To be named All-State is always an honor because so few are selected,” said Churchwell. Starting at the district level, they competed against more than 60,000 students statewide. The competitive process then advanced to the region and area levels. Just over 1,000 students were ultimately selected to perform at the TMEA Convention as AllState Band or Choir members. Matt Boening is the band director at Smithson Valley High and Jason Adam is the band director at Canyon High. “In my opinion, it’s the highest musical honor a student in Texas can achieve,” said Boening, who was in the Texas All-State Band as a student in the 1990s. “When you look at the number of students who start the process at the district level, these are the top one percent of Texas high school musicians.” Snowden said he’s already making plans to study music in college and beyond. “Now that I’ve made it twice, I would

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Pictured is Smithson Valley students, Natalie Morales and Garret Snowden.

Pictured is Canyon High student, David Churchwell.

love to make it all four years I’m in high school,” Snowden said. “It’s an incredible environment to be around so many people with similar interests. You get to see what the real world of music is like if your goal is to make a profession out of it.” Morales and Snowden both play clarinet, while Churchwell is a percussionist. “I was pretty excited to make it since this was my last chance as a senior,” Morales said. “When they called out my name I was really shocked for a minute. It’s going to be a great experience.”

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Covey’s 7 Habits Lead To Highly Effective Students Submitted By Jason Gordon hen a parent hears from their student’s teacher, counselor or principal that he or she is a campus leader, it’s always a great thing. When that compliment comes from a community leader, or an educator visiting the school for a leadership symposium, it takes things to a whole different level. Two of Comal ISD’s campuses, Indian Springs and Timberwood Park elementary schools, hosted “Leader in Me” Leadership Symposiums on Jan. 27th. Based on Stephen Covey’s “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People,” the “Leader in Me” initiative produces transformational results such as higher academic achievement, fewer discipline problems and increased engagement among teachers and parents. “Leader in Me” also equips students from pre-kindergarten through their college years with the self-confidence and skills they need to thrive in the 21st-century economy. All of these skills were on full display during the symposiums. Students at each campus greeted about 100 educators from around Texas, as well as several community leaders such as school board members, local politicians, business owners and law enforcement officials. They were taken on a tour of the school, invited into classrooms and shown a wide variety of student-initiated projects, which were inspired by the “Leader in Me” grants. Some of the student-initiated projects

included: a benefit for the Provisions Outreach Food Bank that netted more than 250 pounds of food, letters to soldiers stationed overseas, a Toys for Tots drive that resulted in a van filled with Christmas presents destined for military families and volunteering at local businesses such as the San Antonio Pet Association. “Leader in Me empowers these students to become role models,” said Gwenda Gonzalez, an elementary teacher in Donna ISD visiting Indian Springs. “They also take the initiative for their own learning. They set goals for themselves and all of these things will set them up for a successful future.” Students also came up with projects such as “Win-Win,” which is Covey’s 4th Habit. With this program fifth-grade student Ashley Vinson and several of her classmates think about ways to mediate and come up with a solution when a student has a problem before it could escalate. “One success story was when a student was being left out of activities by her peers,” Vinson said. “After mediation, we helped everyone work things out and now the problem has been solved.” Timberwood Park Elementary student Tyler Stone helped start a book club last school year and this year has helped start a sports club. Other clubs Timberwood students have started as part of “Leader in Me” are newspaper and cheer. In order to accomplish this feat, they first have to get a teacher to sponsor the club.

Comal ISD School Board Vice President Cody Mueller Timberwood Park Elementary student Chase Kiehne is certainly impressed with Indian Springs Elementary explains his “Leader in Me” project to Martha Flores, a student Ashley Vinson’s project “Win-Win.” Northside ISD elementary school teacher.

It’s an example of “Synergy,” Covey’s 6th Habit based on teamwork. “I really like to bring people together,” Stone said. “Leader in Me encourages students to take charge and think ahead. I try to spread all of these positive messages to everyone around me.” Counselor Jill Moran said she’s seen the “Leader in Me” message spread far beyond the walls of Timberwood Park Elementary since the school received its grant in 2013. “Students are taking what they learn here and talking about these same leadership techniques in their homes and in the community,” Moran said. “It’s something I truly believe will stay with them a very long time.” Timberwood Park parent Tanya Taylor agrees wholeheartedly.

“I see my child and other students making the right decisions,” Taylor said. “The program does a wonderful job of developing young minds and giving them the tools and resources to succeed at a very high level.” Martha Flores teaches elementary students at Northside ISD. She visited Timberwood Park during the leadership symposium. “To see kids this age to be focused on things like goal setting, planning and prioritizing is amazing,” Flores said. “Focusing on month to month, year to year and beyond, rather than day to day, will really set these students up for a great life.” Comal ISD’s Startzville Elementary is in its first year as a “Leader in Me” school. The campus will host a leadership day on April 21st.

Tuscany Heights’ Eye-Catching Library Without Borders Submitted By Erin Kirwan magine a library without walls - a book nook without borders, an opportunity to read in a new setting, a setting where one might least expect. Students at Tuscany Heights Elementary are stepping, literally, into just that, thanks to the design and creation of a unique new space, underneath a stairwell of all places! Tuscany Heights has extended the school’s library outside its four walls, having created a book nook, smack dab on the first floor under a flight of stairs. The space, with an eye-catching rug, a bench or two, and a giant cushioned back rest beckons students, teachers, and parent volunteers to sit down with a good book and read. The library without borders was inspired by the NEISD Library Services’ Library Transformation Plan, where librarians district-wide were asked to develop a library plan that looks at each school’s library program and space. T.H.E. Librarian, Jean Ann Johnson and several staff members came up with the idea of a borderless library to invite students to read whenever and wherever possible. Johnson envisioned the space as somewhere a teacher might want to take her class for a change of environment

Students, Joshua Bradley and Madison Naquin, take part in reading at the new library nook.

or, someplace a volunteer helping a reading group would find welcoming. “Every time a student passes this area or a class walks up these stairs, I hope they will be reminded that reading is fun and should take place everywhere,” said Johnson. Organizers held a campaign called “Library Without Borders” in connection with the school’s book fair to fund the project. Donations were key to its success. “I’d like to give the community credit for this beautiful space,” Johnson said. One cannot pass by the book nook without noticing the stairwell. Brightly

Librarian, Jean Ann Johnson, poses with students on the The Library Without Borders. stairwell of the new library nook.

painted titles of popular children’s books cover each step. “It’s so pretty,” said 3rd grader, Maddie Kruewl. “It just makes you want to go there.”

Local artist Halie Koehler painted the space. The staff hopes to transform a second stairwell on the opposite side of the school in the near future.

SA Fencers Attend Princeton And Stanford University Submitted By Velizar Iliev e are proud to celebrate our Olympian college-bound fencers Farrah Lee Elabd and Robin Cheong who will be attending Princeton University and Stanford University (Class of 2020) respectively. Farrah and Robin are both seniors at Saint Mary’s Hall.

Their outstanding academic achievements combined with their passion for fencing enabled each student to be recruited to the Division 1 fencing college of their choice. Farrah and Robin have been fencing since the ages of 8 and 10 respectively. Both are “A” rated fencers who competed both domestically and

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internationally and brought home many medals from high ranked tournaments. The sport of fencing has brought each fencer unique opportunities to travel the world and form long-lasting friendships from all over the United States and beyond. Farrah Lee-Elabd and Robin Cheong train at Olympian Fencing Club in San

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Antonio, TX with some of the best fencers in the nation. They are coached by Velizar Iliev, US Olympian and three-time World Champion, Viktor Svatenko, former USA Olympic Team fencing coach and retired Penn State Fencing Coach. For more information about our fencing club please visit www.OlympianFencingClub.com

The 100th Day Visitor

Kindergarten students at Johnson Ranch Elementary pose with their special guest, Gigi.

Submitted By Amy Rule riday February 5th, 2016 marked the 100th day of school for Comal ISD. The students at Johnson Ranch Elementary celebrated by borrowing walkers, canes and pearls from their grandparents to pretend to be 100 years old. While many academic lessons were incorporated in the classroom instruction, the most meaningful lessons came from a special visitor. Kinder student, Kinsley Gregory, brought her “Gigi”, Mrs. Susan Cheney, to school with her. Gigi, a former teacher, will be turning 100 on March 4th. During her visit, she celebrated with the students and provided wisdom of eating

Students Sing “Happy Birthday” to their special guest, Gigi, who turns 100 years old on March 4th.

vegetables, listening to your parents, working hard and ultimately loving each other to ensure a long and happy life. Mrs. Cheney is a beautiful soul that was a great addition to this special day at JRES.

How The NJROTC Paved My Life By Greg Potts y Smithson Valley high school experience was unique. During my freshman and sophomore year, hanging out with my friends was more important to me than earning good grades. My hair was long, I was greasy, and I skimmed by in the back of the class, making it my personal goal to do as little actual work as possible. Then, in 2010, I realized I wasn’t going to be in high school forever and that at some point I would have to put on big boy pants and enter the real world. To ensure I was ready for that real world, I joined the NJROTC. In NJROTC I quickly moved from being the long haired, awkward kid in the back, to the short haired, awkward kid in the front. The cadre at SVHS NJROTC gave me confidence, and taught me the importance of holding myself accountable for my actions. It is also here where I learned discipline through close order drill, how to be a team player as a squad member and how to lead and motivate my peers. SVHS NJROTC was the source of many fond memories, and I frequently quote it as the major reason for putting my life on the right track. After receiving a scholarship from the Navy for $180,000 (thanks to the SVHS NJROTC unit and the dedication of CDR V. Quidachay) I went to Embry-Riddle

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Pictured is Greg Potts.

Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, where I study Mechanical Engineering. In one year, I will graduate from Embry-Riddle and commission in the United States Navy as an Ensign. My intention is to become a Navy SEAL after graduating, earning their coveted trident and serving my country in the most honorable way I can think of. I wouldn’t be here today if it weren’t for the SVHS NJROTC unit. They gave me the confidence and skill set necessary for me to achieve success. They are a critical component to my upbringing and I can’t thank them enough. My gratitude for what they did is expressed every day by me being able to live my dream here in Daytona Beach.

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Fa ct s an d Fi ct i o n of Fi n a c i al Adv i sors

oin us on Wednesday, March 23, 2016 as Financial Advisor, Brent McCrary, dispels the myths surrounding the Financial Services industry. He will provide you with much needed information on where small business owners and individuals should focus their investments. Come prepared with plenty of questions and, of course, lots of business cards.

Brent McCrary is a Financial Advisor at McCrary Stone Financial Solutions, a financial services firm specializing in estate strategies, wealth accumulation, business strategies and executive benefits for both publicly and privately-held companies. As a financial professioal Brent is uniquely qualified to address the diverse needs of high net-worth individuals. He provides recommendations for asset allocation, funding for education, retirement and long-term care insurance. He works closely with business owners, executive teams and their advisors to help realize their financial goals.

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