Page 2: How Much Do You Know About The “Fertile Crescent?”
Page 4: Garage Sailing
Page 7: Be Happy for Me
Page 11: IREP Announces Dissolution After 25+ Years
Page 13: Women’s Council Of REALTORS®
Page 15: It Is Never Too Late To Start A Health Jour ney (NARPM)
Page 17: Musical Bridges Around The World (on the cover)
Page 18: These Are A Few Of My Favorite Things!
Have you ever wondered just how we, as humans, got to be where we are today? From where did we originate as a society and what did it take to get to the point in which we find ourselves today? From what we have learned over the years the relative cohesiveness as a society that we experience today supposedly all began in a place called the “Fertile Crescent,” a term coined by American archaeologist James Henry Breasted in 1914
The Fertile Crescent name comes not only from its rich, fertile soil coupled with an ample supply of fresh water but also from its curved shape that resembles that of a crescent moon. This crescent shaped body of land and water covers an area in the Middle East that stretches from the eastern Mediterranean coast through countries known today as Iraq, Israel, Syria, Lebanon, Jordan, parts of Turkey, Iran, possibly Cyprus and northern Egypt too. This historically significant region is often referred to as the “Cradle of Civilization,” and for good reason, as this is where agricultural systems were developed, where the first cities arose along with centralized governments and from where trade and writing emerged.
It was due to the significant geographical features of the region, like the rivers and fertile soil, the mountains and plateaus and the deserts that made it the ideal place for actual community life to begin. The Tigris and Euphrates rivers, originating in the mountains, flowed individually southeast through Iraq and later merged just before emptying into the Persian Gulf. It was the annual flooding from these rivers that deposited nutrient rich soil in the surrounding land making the soil incredibly fertile that spurred the development of agriculture and attracted settlements in the area. The Zagos mountains to the east and the Taurus mountains to the north provided natural barriers that influenced settlement patterns and protected early communities from invasions. Several deserts, including the Syrian Desert to the south and the Arabian Desert to the southwest, were contrasts to the fertile lands and thus provided natural borders that served as barriers limiting expansion of settled communities and also influenced the development of the trade routes.
About 10,000 BC in the Fertile Crescent, what is called the Neolithic Revolution, also known as the Agricultural Revolution, marked a significant turning point in human history. It was a time when nomadic humans known as Hunter-Gatherers who relied
on wild plants and animals for sustenance transitioned to settlers in one place where together they cultivated crops. This shift led to the development of permanent settlements and the growth of population centers. This was when several important plant species, including wheat, barley, lentils, and chickpeas were developed and became staple foods that supported large populations. In addition to plants, early agricultural communities in the Fertile Crescent domesticated animals such as goats, sheep, cattle, and pigs. These animals provided not only food but also labor and other resources, such as wool and hides. The Neolithic Revolution also brought about numerous technological advancements as the early farmers developed tools and techniques for planting, harvesting, and storing crops. Irrigation systems were created to manage water resources and increase agricultural productivity. These innovations laid the groundwork for future technological progress and the growth of complex societies.
And then there is the invention of writing that was developed during the highly active period in the region. The Sumerians of Mesopotamia, one of the earliest civilizations in the Fertile Crescent, developed a cuneiform script around 3,200 BC. This writing system used wedge-shaped marks made on clay tablets and initially served administrative purposes, such as keeping records of agricultural produce and trade transactions. Over time, cuneiform evolved to include a wide range of uses, and eventually led to the creation and preservation of literature. Writing facilitated the development of educational systems, allowing knowledge to be systematically recorded and passed down through generations. It also transformed the way societies functioned by allowing for the centralization of power and the establishment of complex bureaucracies. Laws, such as the Code of Hammurabi, could then be codified and enforced. Writing also enabled the growth of trade and cultural exchange by allowing agreements to be documented and knowledge to be shared across distances. One of the earliest and most famous works of literary fiction was an epic poem from ancient Mesopotamia entitled “Epic of Gilgamesh,” about the adventures of a Sumer king as he battles a forest monster during his quest for the secrets of eternal life.
But like most things in life all good things must come to an end and after a long period of prosperity The Fertile Crescent began its decline which can be attributed to a number of things like
invasions, conquests, and internal conflicts. The strategic location of the Fertile Crescent made it a target for invasions by various groups. Over the centuries, the region was conquered by numerous empires, including the Akkadians, Babylonians, Assyrians, Persians, Greeks, and Romans. These invasions often led to periods of instability, destruction, and cultural changes that disrupted the continuity of civilizations in the area. For example: considered the world's first empire, the Akkadian Empire (2334–2154 BC), founded by Sargon of Akkad eventually fell to external pressures, including invasions by the Gutians, a group of people from the Zagros Mountains. The Gutian invasions weakened the Akkadian state, leading to a period of instability and fragmentation.
Following the decline of the Akkadian Empire, the Fertile Crescent saw the rise of several competing citystates like the Amorites who invaded the region around 2000 BC, and the Hittites who subsequently invaded around 1600 BC, following that the Assyrian Empire emerged as a dominant force from 911 to 609 BC but although they brought a degree of stability and administrative efficiency, their empire was ultimately undone by a coalition of external enemies, including the Medes and Babylonians, who overthrew that empire in 612 BC. The Babylonian Empire (626539) under Nebuchadnezzar invaded next but was overthrown by Cyrus the Great of the Persian Empire marking a new era of external rule and bringing about cultural and administrative changes.
Additionally, during the Fertile Crescent’s thousands of active years it experienced internal conflicts that weakened its societies. City-states and kingdoms within the region frequently engaged in warfare over resources and power. These conflicts weakened the region's ability to respond to external threats and created a fragmented political landscape that was difficult to unite. Religious and cultural differences along with social and economic strains played a significant role in the region’s decline as did the peasant revolts and uprisings against oppressive rulers and their exploitative practices which further destabilized the region. All these factors contributed to the region’s eventual decline but had been accelerated by the overexploitation of resources, such as deforestation and over-irrigation, which led to soil degradation and reduced agricultural productivity. As the land became less fertile, the ability to sustain large
populations had diminished, exacerbating social and economic challenges. Today the region is experiencing severe drought, especially in Syria, Iran, and Iraq.
We have learned much about the Fertile Crescent, its thousands of years of history and how important an area it was for civilization in general to be able to get a start. It is thanks to the environmental conditions that were present throughout that region 10,000 years ago that helped us to be where we are today. Thanks also to the invention of writing that has allowed information about the region to be passed on to generation after generation. Today we have not only written word to tell the story but also the presence of several sites where British and French archaeologists were exploring, as early as the mid-1800s, in the Fertile Crescent for any remains of Mesopotamian cities such as Assyria and Babylonia. These include the site of an enormous Sumerian temple in southern Iraq thought to have been built sometime in 21,000 BC named Ziggurat of Ur, the ancient biblical city of Babylon on the Euphrates, the last major power in Mesopotamia to fall under Persian control in 539 BC, Hattusha, a site in Turkey that was once the capital of the Hittite Empire, reaching its peak in during the second millennium BC, and an ancient Mesopotamian city, Persepolis, in southern Iran which includes a large number of architecturally significant Persian buildings. It is the findings at these sites that confirm the written history of the area.
As our ancestors did we continue to improve on our sources for food, invent the tools necessary to accomplish whatever is the next chore, and try to adjust our political systems to unite rather than divide. So now we know where our ancestors found and settled in a place in which they didn’t have to each forage on their own and learned that by working together all could survive. There is little doubt the region discussed here is entitled to be called the “Cradle of Civilization” because despite its decline, the legacy of the Fertile Crescent continues to influence the world. The region's innovations in agriculture, writing, and governance laid the foundation for future civilizations. The cultural and intellectual achievements of the Fertile Crescent have left an indelible mark on human history. There is however one caveat: should we not be paying more attention to the factors that led to the decline of the Crescent before we find ourselves in the same situation?
Aly Crawford / Contributing Writer
It’s Saturday morning. The toddler is awake and we’ve eaten breakfast. Luckily he didn’t need too much enticing to get up and going this morning. I told him we’re going garage sailing. He’s excited.
Now the adventure begins. We grab our drinks and head out. I do have to convince him that he doesn’t need a toy for the car ride though. “I promise we’ll find something cool for you today. Here’s your money. You have $5. Let me know if you see something you want to trade it for.” He’s in. Last time we found him a cool motorcycle toy, and that’s all the persuading he needs. Perfect, hired a cocaptain for $5 - that’s a deal!
Our means of transportation this morning is not a boat. We call it sailing, but we’ll never leave dry land. Instead we’re loading in and out of the Jeep as we hop around from island to island (garage sale to garage sale). It’s become one of our favorite Saturday traditions. About once a month we’ll sail out on an adventure looking for treasure.
First garage sale was a bust in
terms of treasure. She apparently collected all kinds of tiger things and had framed, completed puzzles. Not our style, but everyone loves chatting to the toddler, and there’s a dog, so it’s not a complete bust. On to the next one. Oh yes! Much better. We find a ceramic pumpkin for the porch and they have a great collection of toys.
The kids at the sale have a great time helping my co-capitan find the perfect toy to add to his collection - a toy truck with a crane, $2 - sold. We sail on and find a few more sales. A multifamily yard sale. Fabulous! A purse, a super cute moth picture - maybe it can go in the front room, and a couple sheets for $1 - these are perfect for covering my potted plants in the winter.
As we roll up, we can tell the next one is good. This one is right near our house, and it’s our last stop today because we must find nourishment quickly. According to the crew we may perish soon. But, this is a can’tmiss, the whole driveway is covered in tables. Grandparents. Yes! That is perfect. That means they have kids stuff, holiday stuff and all kinds of
things I’ve never seen. Score x10! For 20 dollars, I found a Christmas gift, a cute Santa for my porch, a rug, 2 sweaters, and new movies. You can’t beat those deals!
Every once in a while we’ll get lucky and come across a great find. Most of the time we look around and don’t get anything, and end up spending time talking with the people. Even on the days we stay close to home, we love the variety of people we get to talk to.
Interested in treasure hunting yourself? Fall and spring are the best times to go sailing here in San Antonio. Unfortunately we haven’t found a good treasure map and often end up adrift. We start in the neighborhoods near us then slowly expand our search. Our favorite game to play
is letting the toddler navigate. “Should we go left or right, Bud?” “Uhh, that way!” He points. I love zigzagging through neighborhoods I’ve never seen, looking at the houses, plants and decor, then getting a peek into the things people buy, laid out on folding tables. We see weird, cool, interesting, and unexpected things every time.
Next year, we want to start a faux yacht club called the San Antonio Sailing Club. We’ll pick one Saturday each month. Each family visits garage sales near them, sharing the news with the club if they find a hidden gem, then meet up for lunch and to share and celebrate the treasures we found. No dues, just deals. Sounds like a great way to spend a Saturday! You in?
1-Jan
2-Jan
3-Jan
4-Jan
5-Jan
6-Jan
Jason
Mary
Greg
Dea
Jan
Carmen
Marilyn
Sally
Esta
Karen
Richard
Gabriela
Justin
Carey Cardone
Chuck
Cathey Meyer / Contributing Writer
My dearest family and friends who wish they were us,
We are so excited to share our past year with each of you and know you want all the details of every trip, every success, every award and everyone who was graced with our presence in 2024.
This was the best year ever. Global warming provided us an excuse to leave the oppressive heat of January in Texas and head to the mountains somewhere north. Unfortunately, there was a massive wildfire at that location and the ski lodge was no longer in existence. How rude! The trees were gone, many of the houses were just rubble, it was very unattractive. Not a good look for a ski lodge. The weather was too warm for snow, I guess global warming means it is warm all over the globe.
February was a fabulous month—mostly because we love our box seats at the Rodeo. Everyone can see us and our fabulous Rodeo Road wear. Our littlest,
King Vald, was selected to participate in the mutton busting. He won his division—15 and under. My jealous cousin tried to cloud our victory by pointing out he was the only one that category, but we countered with there was only one mutton big enough for the scramble, and we got our entry in back when he was seven. Just like getting into excellent private schools, you must submit your applications early. King Vlad is doing fabulously at his school: Jesus Christ of Fairwell Currency and Ladder Day Risers. He was third in his class in ladder assent, a great resume builder for his application to the University of Firefighter Dreamers. Spring break in March had us traveling to Mexico to visit medical schools for Ansiley to consider after she graduates in 2039. She had a minor set back in a few of her schools this year. Her social media accounts were hacked and someone photo shopped her adorable posts. Her psychiatrist recommended we
not dwell on these events and suggested we not pressure her to finish school at a rapid pace, so we are allowing her to just attend any school as she feels needed and pray her dream of becoming a cosmetic neurosurgeon will not be eliminated by artificial intelligence.
We finally finished construction on our dream vacation home in Nebraska. Nothing says, RELAX like a plowed corn field in July. Of course, nothing is easy as the wrong furniture was delivered from one of the Carolinas. Then the new furniture was held up in a trucker strike. Then the truck caught fire and burned to the ground. Why does this have to happen to us?! Fire interference again! We are good people: We go to church in front of the TV any Sunday we wake up early enough for the service; We give to three charities: Christians for Taylor Swift; Weekend Gardeners for better Earth Worms; Stand-up for Toe Nail Carcinoma. I always give panhandlers whatever is left over in my water bottle. We never violate lawn watering restrictions during the daytime. We should, at the very least, get our very expensive, mostly made in America furniture in a timely manner.
A side trip was squeezed in to visit our nation’s capital, Walt Disney World. We really wanted to take a Disney cruise but thought it
was more important for the kids to see our treasured national monuments: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Seven Seas Lagoon, Righteous Reef Playground, Hoop Dee Doo Revue and of course, the king and queen of the capital: Mickey and Minnie Mouse. We sang the national anthem, It’s a Small World, several times. We are so proud Ainsely and King Vald knew all the words and no one notice they were a bit off key in the notes.
Archer did his family proud this year as runner up for sales representative of the year selling the latest in weight loss potions. This fabulous miracle drug has eliminated our need to eat, so unfortunately, we had to let Alma, our cook go. Hopefully, some of you can find it in your bank account to send her a little extra something to make it through the holidays. As you read this, we are off for our annual holiday trip to Boca Chico. We love scouring the beach for space launch debris. May the higher power in you life send blessing our way in 2025.
(Just a note: While the above may or may not be accurate, it is compiled from those genuine holidays letters we all receive this time of year. May your holiday letter out do all others and bring us tears of joy as we relish in the success of our loved ones. Happy Holdidays!)
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After more than a quarter-century of fostering collaboration, education, and professionalism among real estate agents, the Independent Real Estate Professionals (IREP) has made the bittersweet decision to dissolve the organization. During a meeting on Tuesday, November 18th, members voted to close this chapter of IREP’s history, ending a legacy of service that has profoundly impacted the real estate community.
Founded over 25 years ago, IREP was established with the mission of empowering independent real estate agents to thrive in a competitive and evolving market. By providing resources, networking opportunities, and a forum for sharing best practices, the organization quickly became a cornerstone for professionals in the industry.
“IREP was more than just an organization; it was a family,” said
longtime member and past president Annette Slater. “We came together not just to grow professionally but to make a difference in the lives of the clients and communities we served.”
Throughout its history, IREP championed various initiatives that strengthened the local real estate market. From hosting educational workshops to organizing charity events, the group’s impact reached far beyond its membership. IREP’s commitment to integrity and collaboration set a standard for excellence, earning the respect and admiration of peers across the industry.
The decision to dissolve was not made lightly. Members cited several factors contributing to the move, including changing industry dynamics, evolving member needs, and challenges in maintaining active participation.
“The real estate market has
undergone significant transformations over the years, and so have the needs of our members,” said current President, Michelle Noble “While IREP’s mission remains relevant, we felt that the time had come to explore new ways to support the community and adapt to the current landscape.”
Despite the dissolution, members expressed hope that the values and relationships fostered through IREP would continue to thrive independently. Many are optimistic that the spirit of collaboration that defined the organization will live on in other forms, whether through individual efforts or future initiatives.
As members reflected on the organization’s achievements, there was a shared sense of pride in what IREP accomplished. The group’s influence extended beyond professional development; it also contributed to the personal growth and success of its members.
“For me, IREP was a place where I found mentorship, friendship, and inspiration,” shared one member during the meeting. “It’s hard to say goodbye, but I’m grateful for everything this group has given me.”
While IREP’s journey has come
to an end, its impact will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy. The relationships forged through the organization and the lessons learned will continue to shape the careers and lives of those involved.
As the meeting concluded, there was a call for members to carry forward the principles that defined IREP: integrity, independence, and a commitment to excellence.
“Though IREP is closing its doors, its spirit will remain alive in all of us,” said [insert name or role]. “We may no longer meet under the banner of IREP, but the connections and values we’ve built will continue to guide us in our individual paths.”
The dissolution of IREP marks the end of an era for the real estate community. While the decision is undoubtedly a somber one, it also serves as an opportunity to celebrate the organization’s remarkable legacy.
To honor its 25+ years of service, members members also voted to help continue its legacy by donating its current available funds to another organization that we felt could continue to carry on the legacy of IREP and so the organization is donating all available funds to VAREP at their next meeting. We felt that it would help them continue to foster education and opportunities for local Realtors.
As my term as Treasurer for the Women’s Council of REALTORS® (WCR) comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on our collective accomplishments and, most importantly, my personal growth. This journey has been transformative, helping me find a deeper sense of self and purpose and solidified a path for me in advocacy where I found my voice.
My career in real estate began at a young age, though truthfully, it wasn’t something I initially aspired to pursue. Growing up in the industry, I wanted to forge my own path, separate from my family’s footsteps. What I saw behind the scenes wasn’t always glamorous; it involved cycles of challenges and hard work that aren’t typically showcased on social media like it is today.
Despite my reluctance, I began my career on the financial side of the industry. I built my foundation through relentless study, diving deep into the intricacies of guidelines and quality control, and learned very quickly how to repair credit so that I could offer my clients better deals and save them money. Teaching
financial literacy became my niche and opened many doors for me. Although my youth often invited skepticism from clients and associates, I’d break the ice during an application and reassure them by saying, “Don’t worry—it’s not what I look like; it’s what I know.” Over time, I became less concerned with face-to-face interviews as the industry transitioned to a more digital world. It converted back when I became a REALTOR®.
In an era dominated by social media, the focus on “impressing” has reached new heights. Many real estate professionals like me post success stories, closing announcements, or property tours. While these mostly highlight the glamorous side of our profession, they often lack depth and add value to our clientele. Rarely do we see any discussions about the underwriting process of a product offered, construction methods on new homes, building materials, or the nuanced processes that go into creating successful transactions.
This led me to question the value I was bringing to the table and what I was offering my community and clients.
Could I provide more than just eye-catching content? Could I educate, inspire, and advocate for all things real estate and help set better standards within the industry? Answering these questions required a commitment to self-improvement and the development of my leadership skills.
As self-driven as I am, I knew I needed to connect with like-minded professionals. When the opportunity arose to join the Hispanic Chamber, the friend I asked for a letter of recommendation from, recommended that I consider applying for the Texas Realtors Leadership Program (TRLP) through SABOR. I applied and was accepted. It was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made!
Through TRLP, I found a community of professionals equally committed to growth and collaboration. Together, we shared insights, built connections, and grew as leaders. One of these connections led me to join the Women’s Council of REALTORS®, a group of inspiring professionals who have achieved incredible success while giving back to their communities.
When I was asked to serve, I didn’t hesitate. My time with WCR has been invaluable. It’s a group that uplifts its members, fostering opportunities to connect, grow, and serve. From local events to national conferences, the relationships I’ve built with these professionals have been life changing.
Serving as a leader within WCR and graduating from TRLP reinforced the importance of my role in the industry
and my personal accountability as I strive for excellence. In real estate, we hold the responsibility of guiding clients through one of the most significant investments of their lives. This requires not only knowledge but also integrity and dedication to our continuous improvement.
Being part of these organizations has shown me the value of surrounding myself with people who challenge me to be better. It’s not about competition; it’s about collaboration and raising the bar for everyone in the industry. Those who push boundaries and strive for greatness are the beacons of our profession’s future.
If my journey inspires you, I encourage you to take the leap. Join the Women’s Council of REALTORS®, TRLP, or one of our committees at SABOR. Attend a meeting, volunteer to help at an event, or simply start a conversation with someone you admire in the industry. The opportunities are there, you just have to be brave enough to make the first move! The Women’s Council is actively seeking new members and strategic sponsors for 2025. Don’t wait until you feel “ready.” The support and resources are there to help you grow into the leader you aspire to be.
Your time is now! Seek to improve, not impress, and be authentic. You’ll find your people, opportunities to grow, lead, and leave a lasting impact on those around you. Cheers to your future success and thank you to The Women’s Council for allowing me the opportunity to serve. It was truly an honor and a privilege I will never forget.
Brenda Davila / SAMAC, NARPM Past President
When it comes to health, attending to it is the best thing you can do for yourself and the one thing you should not ignore. If you are not healthy, tasks can become harder to complete as you may have low energy levels, your cognitive ability may be impacted, it can be difficult to focus, and may cause low self-esteem and stress. When we speak of health, this can include mental health, physical health, emotional health, financial health, spiritual health and especially intellectual. I would say working on these items your overall health would highly improve. It doesn’t happen overnight and the hardest part is getting started. Remember that a little goes a long way and before starting an exercise or diet program, consult with your doctor. Safety is also impor -
tant.
I started a health journey that I never thought that I’d stick to and results happened over a span of about 5 years. The changes were subtle at first and had bad days that I believed I wasn’t working hard enough; however, the changes started and by that time I was more thoughtful about my choices and challenged myself to reach for the stars. It was the most committed I had ever been to myself and was well worth it. I had more patience and started enjoying things I used to like such as reading and crafting and with time this led to my physical improvement. I was able to sustain longer work hours, still had enough energy to go for a work out, come home to cook dinner and do a little something for myself,
such as a spa night, or get my area organized. Things are better when you’re healthy. It doesn’t mean that you will never be under the weather, however, the sickness may not last as long or you’ll be more resilient to deal with it.
The SAMAC chapter was thinking about health too when they organized our very first 5K this year. It was held on November 2nd at Elsewhere Garden Bar and Kitchen, downtown. It was great to see the property managers that engaged in encouraging each other to keep healthy. Whether you walked or ran, you were someone’s motivator and inspiration. It was a great afternoon where we got our miles in and enjoyed some fellowship afterwards. I’m hoping this is the start of new tradition and can’t wait for the next one.
In closing, whatever health means to you, don’t get intimidated. Try it, do it and find a buddy for accountability if needed. Small steps always lead to big results.
If you’d be interested in joining us for a future event such as this one or would like
to help plan an event, please join us as a member and become a committee member too. We’re slowly approaching the end of the year and it’s a great time to plan what organization you’d like to be a part of. Please consider us. To learn more about our chapter, visit our Facebook page, San Antonio Metropolitan Chapter of NARPM or visit our website: https://sanarpm.org/
Our upcoming calendar of events:
December 5 – Executive Board Meeting
December 6 – Christmas Party & Officer Installation
December 12 – SABOR Officer Installation
December 19 – SABOR Leasing & Property Management Committee Meeting
December 31 –NARPM Grassroots Advocacy Class
FYI: Don’t forget we changed our meeting hours from 10am-1pm to 11am-1pm. Same place and better time slot, so you can get some work done before coming in and leave early enough to complete your workday and feel accomplished.
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Karen Evans / Contributing Writer
Anya Grokhovski is the visionary CEO of Musical Bridges Around the World, an organization dedicated to fostering cross-cultural connections through the power of music. With a passion for the arts and a deep commitment to community engagement, Anya has led initiatives that bring together diverse musical traditions from around the globe. These are her beautiful words. Please enjoy this feature and attend their unforgettable concerts.
RE Newsline: Can you share what inspired you to create Musical Bridges Around the World and the history & mission behind your organization?
Anya Grokhovski : Soon after I arrived in the U.S. from Russia in the late 90's, I worked a a staff accompanist at UTSA's Department of Music. Wanting to share my cultural and musical background with my new friends in San Antonio, I invited my favorite piano professor, Vladimir Bochkarov, who agreed to play a few concerts. More concerts grew organically with the help of women, whom I consider our organization's founders. These music lovers helped to shape what eventually became the nonprofit, which has a core mission to provide access to global arts for all. Currently, almost all of our programs and events are free of charge.
RE Newsline : How does Musical Bridges Around the World select the artists and performances featured in your
programs?
We select highly accomplished artists who are trained in western music but also connected to their ethnic roots. By showcasing the music from cultures around the world, many of our performances work to break media stereotypes that shape many people's worldviews. Many of the artists we bring are relationships built from our 27-year existence. But we are constantly on the lookout for new artists as well. Our artistic department maintains memberships and attends conferences of the World Federation of International Music Competitions, the International Society for the Performing Arts, and the Association of Performing Arts Professionals.
RE Newsline : What impact does music have on bridging cultural divides?
Anya Grokhovski : Music is the language that bypasses preconceptions and goes straight to people's hearts. Some call this "soft diplomacy," as it creates a sense of belonging and brings people together despite differing views on politics, religion, and other issues. The exposure is also a key factor. For example, our concerts and curriculum programs for young students help open their minds to the world outside their city or even their neighborhood. Many of our students tell their teachers they want to travel to India, Spain, or other countries.
Competition (SAIPC)m. We met for lunch, and after catching up about family, friends, children, and pets, they dropped the bomb. "Anya, how do you feel about taking on SAIPC? We looked at San Antonio organizations and concluded that Musical Bridges Around the World would be the best match. We trust you as a pianist to keep the competition alive." I accepted, and since then, we've hosted what is now The Gurwitz International Piano Competition twice, in 2010 and most recently in February 2024. It was so memorable, especially seeing a full house at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts and an invested audience eager to hear the results at the finale.
RE Newsline : How does the organization engage with the local community, and what role do volunteers play in your events?
Anya Grokhovski : MBAW has seven different programs that are free to the community. We have three public programs: an annual concert series at San Fernando Cathedral in downtown San Antonio, a quadrennial music festival, and The Gurwitz International Piano Competition every four years.
artists.
RE Newsline: What role does education play in fostering an appreciation for diverse musical traditions?
Anya Grokhovski : : Education is extremely important, and it's why children are the largest demographic we serve. Exposure to music, culture, and arts at an early age installs many important characteristics such as creativity, respect, understanding, and critical thinking. With our world constantly evolving through technologies such as AI, what does that mean for those children when they enter adulthood? It could be a new world where many jobs are gone, and new ones are replaced. However, arts and culture help expand a child's mind early on so that they can practice the adaptability and creativity they can benefit from looking forward to the future.
These public programs are where volunteers assist with check-in, onstage, backstage or artist hospitality, and other logistics.
RE Newsline: Can you discuss any memorable moments or performances that have particularly resonated with you?
In 2016, I received a call from the former board president of the San Antonio International Piano
Our most significant constituencies are senior communities, schools, transitional facilities, and community centers where we bring live concerts. Many schools also receive educational curricula that we develop in-house using different countries and cultures to help students learn core subjects and social-emotional skills. Additionally, we manage a string scholarship for those entering secondary music education and a youth ambassador program that allows local music students opportunities to perform and attend masterclasses from some of our guest
RE Newsline: What advice would you give to aspiring music leaders looking to make a difference in their communities through music?
Anya Grokhovski: First, ensure you understand the communities you want to serve. What are their needs, and how can you best serve them? Next, start with a strategic plan that aligns your goals and priorities to see your mission through. Last, don't give up. Be patient, and know that if your mission is right and you have the drive to keep it going, you can succeed.
Musical Bridges Around the World 23705 Frontage Road, Suite 101 78257
210-464-1534
musicabridges.org
Karen Evans / Contributing Writer
Welcome to The Happy Critic column, created for those who love extraordinary experiences with food, drink, art, and Christmas!!! I use uplifting words to draw attention to remarkable people, places, and things! This festive season, I'm excited to share some enchanting experiences and delightful treasures I discovered this fall, and I hope you embrace them with the warmth of Christmas cheer!
Christmas at the Caverns!
Natural Bridge Caverns celebrates Christmas in a truly unique way, unlike anywhere else! "Each year, we look for ways to make our Christmas event a big part of celebrating the magic of the season," said Brad Wuest, President of Natural Bridge Caverns. "We're blessed to give our guests a unique holiday experience that combines the beauty of the cavern with the joyful talents of so many talented musicians from every corner of our community." My talented, creative friend David Uminski will sing SOLO on December 7, 15th, and 23rd! Buy your tickets now! A portion of ticket sales will be donated to the San Antonio and New Braunfels Food Bank.
26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, 210-651-6101 - naturalbridgecaverns.com
Hands-on Chanukah 2024: Winter Carnival
Step right up to celebrate Chanukah at the JCC! This year, we are excited to have a special performance by Carla from Tkiya! Tkiya
Music uses participatory music experiences to reinvigorate diverse Jewish communities. There will be fun for the whole family, including classic winter carnival games and activities with a fun Chanukah twist. And what Chanukah Winter Carnival would be complete without delicious sufgahniot (jelly filled donuts) and hot chocolate! This family-free event is free and open to the community, so we hope to see you there! The Elsa Barshop Family generously underwrites this Winter Carnival. Thursday, December 19, 4–6 pm
Barshop JCC, on the Campus of the San Antonio Jewish Community Center, 12500 NW Military Hwy.
Kiss the Cook!
Some people eat tamales for the taste. Others know that tamales have a deeper meaning than simply the food itself. Tamales are a symbol of love, friendship, and family. According to Mexican folklore, the Aztec god Quetzalcoatl created tamales by wrapping corn dough around roasted red peppers, corn, and beans. The Aztecs would wrap
their tamales in large banana leaves and cook them over open fires or under hot ashes. Today, modern versions of tamales are wrapped in corn husks instead. The Aztecs believed tamale-making was time-consuming and tedious work; therefore, only women considered worthy could make the sacred food. Because making tamales is so time-consuming, they were traditionally served at holiday celebrations so everyone could help with the preparation. To properly prepare tamales for these celebrations, it took an entire day to make them, and many women worked on them together as a bonding experience. The tradition of making tamales for Christmas can be traced back to the Aztecs over 2000 years ago. Tamales are still eaten at Christmas today because of their long-standing symbolic association with the holiday. Tamale making is a time to celebrate family and love one another, much so that in Mexico, it's become a tradition to kiss whoever made the tamales!
My favorite tamales are Delicious Tamale Factory! - 210-4903131
The Jones Christmas Ranch!
"We are a family of four, and this is our passion project. We have been doing a light display to music for 16 years. The display became larger every year, and the traffic in our neighborhoods did, too! (When we were featured on ABC's Great Christmas Light Fight show, traffic grew significantly!) So it was either Go BIG or Go Home, so in 2022, we sold our "forever home" and bought this 32-acre property that used to be a private school to continue bringing Joy to our community. We have always loved giving back to our community and those in need, so we started a non-profit called Shine Bright Ministries because the school
had a full gymnasium. In our first year, we served over 600 women's & children's homes and helped make their Christmas a little brighter! 3.5 Million Lights! All synchronized to music!
Mike, Mandy, Micah & Mykala Jones 43360 IH-10W, Boerne
Vehicle max height x length: 8'x20' November 8-December 31 Sun-Thurs * 6–10 pm $35 per Vehicle Fri & Sat * 6–11 pm $40 per Vehicle Season Pass * $75
Open every night, including Christmas Eve & Day 6–9 pm
We thank you for supporting our SMALL family business and hope it will bring your family JOY!
Mandy@TheJonesChristmasRanch.co m - 210-885-0006
Holidays on Houston Street
By the San Antonio Coffee Festival
Saturday, December 7, 5–9 pm
West Houston Street & North Flores Street
This December 7, Houston Street in Downtown San Antonio will be buzzing with holiday cheer as the San Antonio Coffee Festival brings Hot Holidays on Houston Street, a new evening event celebrating the season's favorite sips and treats that go beyond coffee to including tea, hot chocolate, cider, and other warm seasonal beverages—access to the cocktail area along the San Pedro Creek. Adding to the holiday spirit, guests can enjoy live music and DJs, capture memories with various photo opportunities, and browse unique gifts made by local artisans at the gift market. Every ticket will be a VIP experience, including a commemorative holiday mug, beverage sample tickets, and more!
SanAntonioCoffeeFestival.com
Most Wonderful Time of the Year!
Scott Myers and Brokerage Honored as Broker Agent Brokerage of the Month 'Seven Star - Top 100 Referral Partner' for the state of Texas
Broker Agent Advisor is delighted to announce that Scott Myers and their brokerage has been selected as Broker Agent Brokerage of the Month in Texas for exceptional achievements and unwavering dedication to excellence in the real estate industry.
This prestigious honor is reserved for our Top 100 referral partners in each state and highlights Scott and their brokerage's commitment to providing outstanding service to clients and their significant contributions to their local real estate market.
"We are thrilled to see Scott and their
brokerage receive this well-deserved recognition," said Chad Golladay, Executive Publisher at Broker Agent Advisor. "Their dedication, integrity, and expertise contribute to a higher standard in our industry, and we are proud to count them among our most honored."
"I am honored to accept Broker Agent Brokerage of the Month," said Scott. "This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication our brokerage puts into serving our clients. We are grateful for the support of our colleagues and the trust of our clients."
As Broker Agent Brokerage of the Month, Scott and their team may be featured through Broker Agent Advisor, showcasing their accomplishments and contributions to the real estate industry. This recognition serves as an
We’re thrilled to announce that Stacey Handy, a highly experienced Texas Broker, has joined United Realty Group as an associate broker. With 28 years in the real estate industry and over 20 years serving in the military as a nurse, Stacey brings a unique blend of dedication and expertise to her role. Her passion lies in providing the perfect home for the military community.
In San Antonio, Stacey has been an active member of the Relator-Builder Committee, the Diversity Committee, and the Young Professionals Network. She also contributed to the Fair Housing Policy Committee with the National Association of Relators. Her skills include budgeting, real estate financing, and financial manage ment, and she is a proud Texas Notary.
Stacey’s commitment to professional excellence is backed by a robust educational foundation. She holds the Graduate Realtor Institute designation and numerous certifications, including Broker Price Opinions, Certified Home Marketing Specialist, Short Sales and Foreclosures, Accredited Buyer Representative, and Resort and SecondHome Property Specialist.
Beyond her brokerage work, Stacey is a seasoned real estate investor with a portfolio that includes multifamily complexes, rental properties, and successful home flips. As a certified mentor she ensures her clients receive comprehensive guidance in buying, selling, or investing.
Stacey’s goal is to offer a stressfree real estate experience, built on trust and deep understanding of the market. When she’s not working, Stacey enjoys quality time with her family, traveling, biking, and transforming neglected properties into beautiful homes.
inspiration to fellow real estate professionals and underscores the importance of excellence in service and professionalism.
For more information or to connect with Scott Myers and their brokerage, visit brokeragentreferral.com where they may be rightfully found among other outstanding and highly qualified real estate professionals throughout the country.
More About Broker Agent Advisor Established in 1994 Broker Agent Advisor is an independent real estate trade publication which provides information, tools, and resources to
assist the modern real estate professional in achieving greater success through their real estate practice.
Through its independent certification process, Broker Agent Advisor validates real estate and lending professionals based on achievement, potential, leadership, ethics, community value, experience, capability and trust. With a reputation exceeding 30 years and no cost or fee required, few 3rd party endorsements are as genuine toward identifying the most exceptional professionals to share their advice and partner with for referrals.
