TAILWINDS
FALL 2026
A Blue Skies of Texas Quarterly
LOOKING AHEAD
EXCITING CHANGES ARE ON THE HORIZON
GEARING UP FOR WHAT’S NEXT In our last issue of TAILWINDS, we paid tribute to 250 years of American independence, ingenuity, and tenacity. Now, we’re setting our sights on the future. Both Blue Skies of Texas and the city of San Antonio are at the forefront of transformative ideas, improvements, and innovations that are pushing the limits of what can be. Read on to learn how.
Want a closer look at our trailblazing community? Scan the QR code to download your Info Kit.
THREE PROJECTS TAKING OFF AT BLUE SKIES High Flight Center at Blue Skies West
Wellness Upgrade 2.0
East Campus Makeover
A hub for worship, performances, learning, discussion, and community gatherings.
A state-of-the-art facility bringing fitness and rehabilitation together under one roof.
A complete pool renovation, plus furniture, carport, and community garden upgrades.
PICTURE EMERGENCY CARE
JUST STEPS FROM YOUR DOOR
While many senior living communities are shying away from healthcare options, Blue Skies of Texas is leaning in and looking ahead. The #1 Continuing Care Retirement Community in Texas recently broke ground on a freestanding emergency room (FSER) right on our San Antonio campus. This forward-thinking initiative ensures our residents, staff, and the surrounding community have access to exceptional care that is always close at hand. It also reflects our commitment to expanding and enhancing our services in the years to come. “Timely, high-quality emergency care is essential—particularly in a community like ours,” says retired Air Force Lt Gen Darrell Jones, Blue Skies President and CEO. “We believe Blue Skies of Texas
is the first continuing care retirement community in the United States to offer a freestanding emergency room on campus.” Representing a leading-edge innovation in healthcare, the project distinguishes Blue Skies as a standardbearer for resident well-being, safety, and peace of mind. Set to open in 2027, the 11,150-square-foot facility will provide 24/7 emergency care, including advanced diagnostic imaging, laboratory services, and immediate treatment for a wide range of medical conditions.
LEARNING ISN’T A DESTINATION … IT’S A JOURNEY It’s never too late to explore new frontiers—in fact, retirement gives you more time than ever to cultivate a talent, dive deeper into your passions, or even earn some college credit. Here are some lifelong learning opportunities at Blue Skies of Texas: • Blue Skies of Texas, in partnership with AARP, hosts on-site activities and educational programming for residents, including driver safety courses and digital security classes. • Lunch and Learn events, like our recent Estate Planning workshop in conjunction with Broadway Bank, give residents insight into relevant and engaging topics.
THE BEST IS YET TO COME Fighting for a cure. Bob G., a retired biomedical researcher, puts his energies toward raising money for the Glenn Biggs Institute for Alzheimer’s & Neurodegenerative Diseases. Mentoring the future. Retired LTC Leo B. regularly donates his time to volunteering with the Air Force Junior ROTC program at John Jay High. Stamping their passports. Jim and Valerie B., two of many frequent travelers at Blue Skies, have journeyed to destinations as diverse as Tahiti, Romania, North Macedonia, and Albania. Capturing a vision on film. Former microbiologist Linda M. reignited her passion for photography at Blue Skies and has hosted several community exhibitions over the years.
LEADING THE WAY
San Antonio is at the vanguard of culture, creativity, and innovation. Here are six mammoth changes that Alamo City residents can look forward to.
$2.5 BILLION AIRPORT EXPANSION
ALAMO VISITOR CENTER AND MUSEUM
San Antonio International is entering the big leagues with 18 new gates, 850,000 square feet of extra space, and amenities galore.
This world-class tribute to the Shrine of Texas Liberty will combine historical storytelling with cutting-edge immersive elements—including a 4D theater.
PROJECT MARVEL
NEW VA HOSPITAL
A brand-new Spurs arena, a convention center expansion, and a land bridge over Interstate 37 are just some highlights of this massive undertaking.
Military City USA continues its tradition of honoring our veterans with plans for a 1.6 million-square-foot Veterans Affairs hospital.
TECHNOLOGY BOOM
RIVER WALK REVITALIZATION
A technological influx driven by cybersecurity, data centers, and aerospace innovation is set to boost the regional economy by nearly $11 billion annually.
San Antonio’s scenic path is getting a $30 million glow-up featuring a food hall and greater walkability to attractions old and new.
NEW ENDEAVORS ARE ALWAYS IN FASHION Becci Terezhalmy has a knack for arts and crafts and is a fashionista through and through. Since moving to Blue Skies three years ago, she’s also cultivated some new skills like event planning—and building a fashion boutique from the ground up. This vivacious, creative senior is the driving force behind The Closet, the White Elephant Thrift Shop’s clothing showroom at Blue Skies East. What inspired Becci to pursue this new passion project? We’ll let her tell the story. “I was part of the White Elephant Volunteers when I discovered an unused room with tons of boxes filled with amazing clothes. My friend Susan Turner and I decided to turn it into a fashion lover’s paradise—with some help from the Blue Skies staff,” Becci says. The Closet has also tapped into a hidden need in our community. “It makes it easy for folks to shop, especially those who don’t drive,” Becci explains. “Staff members, too, love to browse here for their kids and spouses, and every other month we donate clothing to worthy causes.” For the past three years, The Closet has hosted an August fashion show, which has become the social event
Becci and Géza T.
of late summer. More than 30 residents and staff members take turns modeling outfits and accessories, and there’s plenty of music, dancing, and good food as well. “This year’s theme was 1950’s rock n’ roll, and we even hired a live DJ,” Becci beams. “The show gets more spectacular every year.”
UPCOMING EVENT DOWNSIZING MADE MANAGEABLE
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5 AT 10:30 A.M.
Thinking about a future move but not sure where to begin? Join downsizing expert Peggy Brown, founder of Generations Team, for practical tips to simplify the downsizing process, make it feel less overwhelming and take the first steps toward your next chapter with confidence. Roadrunner Lounge • Blue Skies of Texas West 5100 John D. Ryan Blvd. • San Antonio, TX 78245
TO RSVP, CALL: 726-245-1403
BLUE SKIES PROFILES Shawn Irwin
Director of Resident Services West Campus While Shawn may be a new face at Blue Skies of Texas, this 22-year Army Veteran is no stranger to serving others. We asked him for some insights about himself—and his vision for Blue Skies West.
How has your background prepared you for this position? Whether serving in the U.S. Army or leading resident services programs in affordable housing, one thing has remained constant: People come first. The Army taught me the importance of servant leadership, teamwork, and remaining calm under pressure, while my civilian career reinforced the value of listening, building relationships, and finding practical solutions. Can you share a “fun fact” or two about yourself with the Blue Skies community? I grew up with 10 siblings, so teamwork started long before my Army career. Thanks to my military service, I’ve had the opportunity to visit 20 countries, which has given me a deep appreciation for different people, cultures, and communities. What have you found most rewarding about working at Blue Skies? Without question, the people. From my first day, I was welcomed by residents and teammates who genuinely care about one another and take pride in this community. I’m also impressed by how beautiful and well-maintained the campus is. It reflects the pride our residents and employees take in this community.
What initiatives have you and your team been focusing on so far? My priority is to listen, learn, and build relationships. I’ve spent time meeting with residents, getting to know our team, learning our operations, and identifying opportunities to improve communication, consistency, and the overall resident experience. How do you see Blue Skies West evolving over the next five to 10 years? I believe the future is exceptionally bright. As our community continues to grow and evolve, I see opportunities to build upon the outstanding services already in place by embracing innovation, strengthening resident engagement, and continually enhancing the resident experience while preserving the sense of community and service that makes Blue Skies such a special place to call home.
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I’ve had the opportunity to visit 20 countries...”
WHAT WILL YOUR NEXT CHAPTER LOOK LIKE? The first thing you’ll notice about Blue Skies of Texas is that residents are always ready for what’s next—from passion projects to volunteer opportunities to travel destinations. If that sounds like you, we’re here to give you a head start on achieving independence, nurturing relationships, and pursuing your dreams. With more than 70 clubs run by residents from every background imaginable, there’s something new around every corner. Combine that with abundant activities, workshops, lectures, and opportunities to make a difference and it’s easy to see why Newsweek has ranked Blue Skies #1 in Texas and #8 in the country for Continuing Care Retirement Communities.
WELCOME TO WHAT CAN BE.
210-306-4609 blueskiesinfo.org Blue Skies of Texas is the only Texas senior living community to earn the prestigious CARF accreditation. A not-for-profit Life Plan Community open to those with or without military service.