RE Newsline January 2025

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Vol.XLIII, No. 1

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January 2025

In This Issue: Page 2: Did You Watch “A Charlie Brown Christmas” Last Month? (Pat Farrell) Page 4: Winterizing in South Texas (Aly Crawford) Page 7: Resolve to Worry (Cathey Meyer) Page 11: Asian Real Estate Association of America Page 13: Women’s Council Of REALTORS® Page 15: National Association of Residential Property Managers Page 17: Kara Stevens: Singer / Songwriter (on the cover) Page 18: Connecting Our Community with Flavors of The World (Karen Evans)

Event Pictures, Announcements and More...

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Pat Farrell / Senior Contributing Writer

Did You Watch “A Charlie Brown Christmas” Last Month?

"A Charlie Brown Christmas" is one of the most beloved and enduring TV specials in American history, and if you did watch the show you were not the only one as, although the exact number varies annually, it is estimated that millions of people watch or rewatch the special each year. The animated show that has been a winner of both an Emmy and the Peabody award has aired annually since it premiered on Dec. 9, 1965. Charles M. Schulz created the original Peanuts comic strip, the first of which ran on October 2, 1950, appearing in just seven newspapers; however, when Schultz died in 2000, the strip was by then published in approximately 2,600 newspapers.

Most of the topics in the strip were carefully researched, i.e. when the subject dealt with a legal or medical issue Schultz discussed it with lawyers and physicians and if Schroder was playing the piano, he included that selection’s sheet music. Schultz was a lifelong baseball fan, and the sport was often featured prominently in the Peanuts comic strip. However, when it came to baseball, Charles Schulz was his own expert as he did play baseball as a kid, organized the neighborhood boys into a team and managed the team for which he was the pitcher.

By the early 1960s, “Peanuts” had become a cultural phenomenon, and the idea of creating a TV special based on the comic strip was an appealing prospect.

However, Schulz was initially hesitant about bringing his beloved characters to television, fearing that the transition from print to screen might compromise their integrity. Once he agreed he insisted on maintaining creative control over the project. He wrote the script, which reflected his deepseated values and beliefs. The central theme of the special was a commentary on the commercialism of Christmas, embodied in Charlie Brown's quest to find the true meaning of the holiday.

Then, to direct the special, Schulz brought in animator, Bill Melendez, who had previously worked on the Peanuts characters in the "A Boy Named Charlie Brown" documentary so was familiar with Schulz's vision. He used a

simple, hand-drawn animation style that mirrored the comic strip's aesthetics. And perhaps one of the most iconic elements of the special is its music which was composed by jazz pianist Vince Guaraldi. His soulful and melancholic compositions, including the now-famous "Linus and Lucy" theme, perfectly complemented the mood of the special and have since become synonymous with the Peanuts gang.

According to “Peanuts” historian, Scott McGuire, “to be the show by which all others are measured is an accomplishment indeed” and according to Charles Solomon, animation historian and author of “The Art and Making of Peanuts Animation: Celebrating Fifty Years of Television Specials,” the show, “set the pattern for virtually all of the subsequent 'Peanuts' specials establishing the half-hour special as a staple of network television."

Frequently there is a story behind how events come about and this special is a great example as it might not have been made were it not for Willie Mays. Known as the “Say Hey Kid,” Willie Mays was born in Alabama in 1931 and made his debut in baseball as center fielder with the New York Giants in 1951 and by 1954 was playing against Cleveland in the World Series. During game 1 Mays caught a ball that had been batted 425 feet and then immediately threw it to second base ending what would have been a game winner for the Cleveland team.

Known as “The Catch,” the play is recorded as one of the greatest World Series moments in history. Though the New York Giants won the series they still faced problems filling seats for their games since they were in direct competition for fans with a team across the city, the New York Yankees. To resolve that problem after the 1957 season the team moved to California and became the San Francisco Giants. As chance would have it, in 1958 Charles Schultz moved his family to the San Francisco area and since Willie Mays was one of his idols he attended the Giants games and in fact, Willie Mays name is mentioned several times in the Peanuts strip.

In the 1962 World Series the Giants suffered a heartbreaking loss in the bottom of the ninth during Game 7 when Mays teammate, Willie McCovey hit what would have been a game winning line drive that was caught by the New York Yankees 2nd baseman. No one took the loss harder than Charlie Brown as he exclaimed in the strip, "Why couldn't McCovey have hit the ball even two feet higher?" The following year Mays worked with television producer Lee Mendelson in creating a successful hourlong documentary, “A Man Named Mays,” featuring many interviews with Mays about his life on and off the field. Later, while reading a Peanuts strip featuring a baseball theme, Mendelson came up with the idea to do a documentary on Charles Schultz that would compare the best player, Willie Mays, to the worst, Charlie Brown.

Initially, Schultz had reservations about doing the documentary but, according to the website for the Charles M. Schultz Museum, he later changed his mind and agreed when he learned that Mendelson had produced “A Man Named Mays.” The cartoonist reportedly said, "If Willie can trust you with his life, maybe I can do the same."

When completed the documentary “A Boy Named Charlie Brown,” proved to be an informative examination of both Schultz and his “Peanuts” strip. Scott McGuire noted that even the Giants team were involved as one segment showed an event at Candlestick Park, where the team played, when they held a "Charlie Brown Appreciation Day" in which a cutout of Charlie Brown takes the pitcher's mound, and the skies open up with heavy rain starting to fall on him.

McGuire said that the documentary, "A Boy Named Charlie Brown" also marked the beginning of animation and a move to film for the "Peanuts" strip as between the live-action segments the production showed brief animated sequences, drawn by Bill Melendez's studio to include the gang playing baseball; Lucy pulling away the football as Charlie Brown tries to kick it; and Snoopy stealing Linus' blanket.

This also was the first Peanuts-

related show scored by musician, Vince Guaraldi.

At first there appeared to be little interest from anyone in the documentary until Time magazine ran a cover story about “Peanuts.”

Following that the McCannErickson Agency asked Lee Mendelson, Charles Schulz and Bill Melendez to create an animated Christmas special that Coca-Cola would sponsor. They had less than a week to prepare an outline, which was approved and were given six months to create what became "A Charlie Brown Christmas." Completing the production was fraught with challenges. The tight budget and schedule meant that the team had to work quickly and efficiently.

They opted for a minimalist approach to animation, which included rough, simple lines and static backgrounds. One of the most controversial decisions was Schulz's insistence on using real children's voices for the characters, rather than professional adult voice actors. This decision added an element of authenticity but also posed challenges, as the inexperienced young actors sometimes struggled with their lines. Despite the limitations, this style ultimately contributed to the charm and authenticity of the special.

The rest is history because the production team’s hard work paid off as it would be the first in a long line of animated "Peanuts" TV specials. As for Willie Mays, he retired in 1973 following a twoyear stint with the New York Mets.

Today, many sportswriters regard him as the greatest all-around baseball player to ever suit up for the majors. To date only six major league baseball players have more homeruns to their credit. In an indirect way, Mays gave Charlie Brown a helping hand and every Christmas since has been all the better for it. Just an FYI: In October 2020, the streaming platform Apple TV+ acquired the classic "Peanuts" television specials, including "A Charlie Brown Christmas." In 2020 and 2021, PBS aired the special, but beginning in 2022, it airs only on Apple TV+. But don't declare “good grief” if you're not a subscriber. You can stream the iconic holiday special free from December 22nd through the 25th.

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In and Around San Antonio Aly Crawford / Contributing Writer

Winterizing in South Texas You may not think we need to prepare for winter. Technically we’ve been in “autumn” since September; true winter doesn’t begin until the winter solstice in late December. Plus, it’s been warm and dry this year. This most recent October was the warmest October we’ve seen since… well, since we started keeping records in the 1800s. We’re in the worst drought we’ve seen in decades. We haven’t received more than two inches of rain in a single event since January of last year. For Christmas we ended up taking the matching sweaters off the toddler and dog because they were both sweating. We must not have much to worry about, right?

We know that San Antonio’s winter isn’t what the Minnesotans and Coloradans are used to. Though our winters don’t get particularly cold and we rarely see snow, our winter weather can often catch us off guard. In 2021 when “Snowpocalypse” happened, we saw both ice and snow stay on the ground for over a week. We’ve seen snow or ice stick around in only about a dozen of the last 50 years.

Just because we’re not used to seeing true

wintery weather, doesn’t mean we won’t get to experience it from time to time. And around here our roads and homes aren’t really designed for the cold.

With the variety and frequency of what we can expect ranging so dramatically it may seem that there isn’t much we can do to prepare, but that isn’t the case. Here are a few practical steps you can take to make sure your home is ready for winter.

So far this season we have yet to turn on our heater; we definitely still have days where the air conditioner comes on.

However irrelevant it may seem now, make sure to check your heater before you are in need of its services. If possible, have your HVAC inspected. Not only is winter a good time to find deals on services, but when a surprise cold front blows down from the North you won’t want to be waiting on the repair guy to come by.

If you are more in the DIY camp like me, you may opt for the slightly less convenient option: crawling into the attic to check the crawlspace. Especially in homes built before 2000 this can be immensely

Follow Us @renewsline beneficial. Take the opportunity to update old insulation. This pink fuzzy stuff can be somewhat expensive, but it is a worthwhile investment for your home. While you’re up there, check for and seal any cracks and leaks. Particularly ones that lead outside.

plants recover from the icy crystals penetrating their plant cell walls. I’ve saved a couple plants this way. Another great idea is to make sure all trees are trimmed before January. Freezing rain is relatively common here and can easily take down large oak branches.

Don’t forget to check your outdoor plumbing as well. Insulate and cover pipes before freezing weather arrives. Make sure hoses are empty and disconnected. The easiest way to drain a hose is to unfurl it, stretch it out flat in your yard and walk the length of the hose lifting the section above your head as you go. This will make sure the hose is completely empty and won’t burst if freezing temperatures come our way. Don’t forget to winterize your sprinkler and pool as well. A burst pipe can be a costly repair.

In the last few years the biggest threat Texans have faced during times of intense winter weather is power outages.

How can you prepare? Find the best alternative heat sources for your home. We have a fireplace, but it was designed with our home during the 1980s and though it’s woodburning, it doesn’t heat effectively at all. So, while we do keep a stash of firewood, we also have other options. I can honestly say the most fun option is to have a tent available. Not for sleeping outside during a cold snap, but to set up in your living room or bedroom during a power outage. Creating a small insulated space within a room is a great way to stay cozy.

Fill it up with blankets, books, and games and you won’t be too worried about the chilly house, especially at night. Closing doors and hanging blankets over openings, especially staircases, can help keep spaces feeling comfortable.

We like to think about staying warm and cozy during cold winter weather, but make sure not to forget your outdoor plants as well. Many of the plants we grow here in South Texas aren’t accustomed to freezing temperatures. Make sure to cover tropical and non-frost hardy plants before a freeze. If possible make plans to bring potted plants into the garage or collect in one area to make covering them easier. One thing to keep in mind is to make sure you uncover plants during the day so they can still receive sunlight. And, if you missed the memo on a freeze and you had plants get too frosty, there is still a small window of hope.

Lightly mist frost-covered plants with water before sunrise. This can help some

I’ve heard so many say that fall and winter are the reasons we live here in South Texas. Usually our winter is about as nice as it comes, so around here don’t waste your money on ice scrapers and snow blowers. That’s not going to help at all. But, it is worth it to invest a little time.

How much is it worth to you to get your South Texas home ready for this winter?

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Diana Herrera, Red Bird Realty and Robin Grove, Pioneer Realty Partners

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January 2025

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THE WAY I SEE IT

Cathey Meyer / Contributing Writer

Resolve to Worry No New Year’s resolutions will get a commitment this new year. I have a new resolve: New Year’s Worrylutions. I thought I was at a point in my life where I just did not have to give a %&&(%$* about much of anything anymore, but as I lay me down to sleep, I find I am thinking way too deep.

My first worry is electricity. I have no clue how electricity works. I just understand when I do not pay the bill nothing works. Running out of power was never a consideration in my life advancement. I do recall the threat of no more gasoline, no more oil, and now, no more water, but electricity? Somehow those little wall plugs would always have some kind of spark traveling through them making things turn on and light up.

Our building added electric car chargers in 2024. We purchased one for the price of an expensive computer just because our building manager noted we only had so many available plugs and once they were gone, it would cost a large fortune to add

more power source. I ask what that meant, he just said there was no more optional available power. I had no clue power was optional. We have yet to purchase an electric car, but we have a plug . . .if electricity is available for the charge.

Worry number two is this bitcoin/cryptocurrency alternative money conversations. I understand nothing about it other than Texas is running out of electricity because someone is mining money. I thought you mined gold? If bitcoin is money, how do you get change from purchase? Last I heard, this was imaginary ‘cash’ that involved a mega password that no one ever remembers AND if it is lost, taken or stolen you just lose everything. At least with a credit card you have an outside chance of recovering something.

And why does it use so much of my electricity I need for a car I do not yet own? How long will my regular Uncle Sam money be of value? I worry.

Worry number three involves

all this chatter about the Chinese intercepting our phone calls and texts. I long ago gave up on the notion that we as technology dependent humans (that would include the need for even more electricity) have no expectation of privacy. I am not a TikToc’er but not because the Chinese have infiltrated every participating Toc’er, it is because I just do not do the social media thing. I have very little extra time as it is and recording bad dances and poor cooking skills to make strangers laugh is not on my to do list. My worry is my texts and phone calls are too boring for the Chinese infiltrators. Peer pressure is tough enough waiting for Ozempic prices to become affordable. The idea of foreign teenagers swiping left on my personal relationships and laughing at my dull life is heartbreaking.

The loss of electricity would certainly eliminate the worry of the Chinese spoofing me, but worry number four, as crazy as it is, still bothers me: Space junk. Even more than the junk is who has control over all the space and what are they doing about random pieces of gigantic junk falling back to Earth? I was never a comfortable flyer but never let irrational fear keep me from seeing the world. I have seen enough of the world for this lifetime and prefer to keep my feet near the ground while airplane parts decompose in midair.

Not to mention being trapped in an

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aluminum tube with strangers--any of which will implode prior to plane parts peeling off the fuselage.

Space junk can come crashing down with no Doppler warning. I have seen this stuff flashing and burning out across the sky. At first, I thought I was witnessing shooting stars and making wishes like crazy.

One evening, my partner noted news reports detailing the finding of space junk too close to home. Then you hear about folks relaxing in the Lazy-Boys until space junk comes crashing through their rooftops. The next flash of light streaking across the sky had me in a duck and cover drill. No one needs to live life knowing Chicken Little was right.

Not the last of my worries, but the one I am hiding from is artificial intelligence. As tempted as I am to get the AI’s and/or ChatGPT’s to create column content for me, I am too close to dementia years to stop making my own brain work. Folks are letting these microchip brains take over voluntarily and giving them the power. The Alexa’s and her cousins have control of most households these days. Youngin’s have no clue how to find a radio station on a clock radio much less know what time is shown on the clock. Of course, they have no clue what a radio is either, but I digress. Here’s to a New Year—not necessarily a happy one. I need to charge my computer while the plug is hot . . .

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Keagan Creelman and David Huarte both with Brightland Homes

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VIP Mortgage Fiesta Party

John Kuntz, III (guest), Christy Johnson, Stewart Title and Marty Shields, Premier Realty Group

Carmen Buenrostro, Silverback Realty and Diana Nelson-Pedraza, RE/MAX North San Antonioa

Dennis Skinner, 3D Realty and Property Management and Hazel Malixi (guest)

Megan Cloud, VIP Mortgage and Sharon Soileau, RI San Antonio Real Estate

Josh Morales and Kristen Stewart with VIP Mortgage

Jeanie Murphy, Keller Williams Heritage and Darlene Thomas, Keller Williams City View

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AREAA

With such a talented and passionate team, I am confident that we will achieve great things in 2025.

Neelam Kinger / 2025 President

Advancing Homeownership And Community Empowerment In 2025 As the 2025 President of the Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA) San Antonio Chapter, I am honored to continue the mission of promoting homeownership for Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders, and anyone seeking guidance on their path to owning a home. Representing a diverse group of REALTORS®, Title Companies, Lenders, and Affiliates, we are united in our goal to make homeownership accessible and attainable for all.

Our chapter’s foundation is built on the dedication of our past presidents and the tireless efforts of previous boards of directors. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all who have contributed to raising awareness of our mission and paving the way for our current and future success.

For 2025, my vision is clear: to deliver maximum value to our members, sponsors, and the community we serve.

Together with my incredible board, we aim to foster education, cultural connections, and networking opportunities that empower our members and help them thrive in this dynamic industry.

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2025 Leadership Team Our incoming board is a testament to the collaborative spirit that defines AREAA San Antonio. It is my privilege to work alongside a group of accomplished professionals who bring diverse expertise to our chapter: • Vice President: Elvia Williams, owner of Your Time Home Inspections • Treasurer: Allen Lu, broker and owner of Adapt Realty • Secretary: Alicia Vo, REALTOR® with LPT Realty • Board Members: • Sophear Wilson, Immediate Past President, McKnight Title • Ojas Tasker, Founding President • Yen Yan, commercial REALTOR® • Samantha Nguyen, Past President • Matthew Aguilar, VP at Jefferson Bank • Jade Tucker, REALTOR with JAM Group at JP & Associates Realty • Nick Martinez, Owner of Nestled Roofing • Raymond Fuentes, Branch Manager with Directions Home Loans • Tonya Stuart, Chief Operations Officer

Plans and Initiatives for 2025 Our chapter’s mission is not just about increasing homeownership—it’s about equipping individuals and families with the tools, resources, and connections they need to succeed. In 2025, we will focus on the following initiatives: 1. Educational Courses: • Industry updates to keep members informed of changing trends.

• Leadership development to build strong, effective leaders.

• Collaborations with title companies and lenders to provide critical knowledge and support for REALTORS®.

• Insights into commercial transactions and partnerships to expand opportunities for our members.

• Builder awareness programs to showcase materials, new communities, and incentives for first-time buyers.

2. Cultural Events: Recognizing and celebrating the diversity within our community is at the heart of AREAA. We will host events that connect members through shared traditions, fostering deeper relationships and understanding

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3. Networking Opportunities: To strengthen our chapter, we will provide regular opportunities for members and affiliates to connect and collaborate. These events will facilitate partnerships that create value for everyone involved.

January Mixer and Kickoff We are excited to start the year with a mixer on January 23rd, where we will welcome back previous members and invite prospective members to join our growing chapter. This event will serve as a launchpad for the year ahead, bringing together industry professionals to exchange ideas, build relationships, and learn how AREAA can support their goals.

A Commitment to Community At AREAA San Antonio, we are more than a professional association. We are a community of dedicated individuals working toward a common goal—making the dream of homeownership a reality for all. Whether through educational programs, networking events, or collaborative partnerships, we are committed to creating opportunities that empower individuals and strengthen our local communities.

As we look to 2025, I invite all members, sponsors, and affiliates to join us in our mission. Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of those we serve, advancing the dream of homeownership for generations to come.

Here’s to our successful year ahead!

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Independence Title Wrappy Hour

Abel Zepeda with Keller Williams Heritage, Stephen Donley with Independence Title, and Terry Zepeda with Keller Williams Heritage

Susan Taylor with Independence Title, Keri Yuretich with Independence Title, Robyn Scharlach with Compass, and Michelle Lebherz with Independence Title

Lara Thompson with Independence Title and Isabel Duran with RE/Max Preferred

Evelyn Jose with Keller Williams Heritage

Valerie Wilshire with Independence Title, Jessica Burdon with Haven for Hope Kelly Maizel with PT50, and Steve Dane with Haven for Hope

Chesney Woods and Leslie Hays with Independence Title

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Brian Murphy with Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper, Dana Taylor with Independence Title, and Dina Murphy with Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper

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Carri Amescua / President, San Antonio Women’s Council Network

Welcome To Our New Leadership And Their Vision For Growth!

The Women's Council of REALTORS® San Antonio Network (WCRSA) closed out a remarkable year with its annual Winter Wonderland Installation event held at SABOR on December 5th. The festive evening celebrated not only the achievements of 2024 but also welcomed and installed the officers and members of the 2025 Board who are looking ahead to a future filled with growth, connection, and professional development with the endless possibilities for the coming year. The event’s celebratory atmosphere allowed all to reflect on the spirit of collaboration and support that defines WCR-SA. As 2025 President, I will take the organization’s helm, bringing extensive experience, passion, and a clear vision for the year ahead with the primary goal of building membership significantly in 2025. Recognizing the power of a strong and engaged network, we are determined to expand the organization's reach and impact. By increasing membership, the WCR-SA can offer even greater support, education, and

resources for women in real estate.

Supporting me in this mission are key leaders who share a commitment to empower the network's members. Our newly installed board includes Rebekah Murtaugh as President Elect, Angelica Erosa as First Vice President, Africa Gibb as Treasurer, Patricia Zars as Events Director, and Elvia Williams as Membership Director. Angelica Erosa, a returning Past President, brings invaluable experience and perspective to her role as First Vice President. Additional key roles include Pat Farrell as Parliamentarian, Rosemary Gomez as Membership Chair, and Nicky New as Social Media Chair. This dynamic team is poised to deliver innovative programming, networking opportunities, and resources that drive growth and success.

In my role as President, I plan to foster a welcoming environment where both new and seasoned real estate professionals can thrive. By focusing on outreach, engagement, and mentorship, I envision a network that grows both in numbers and in influence. Our goal for

2025 is to strengthen our membership by reaching out to REALTORS® across San Antonio and demonstrating the tremendous value our network offers.

A critical component of this vision lies in supporting Membership Director, Elvia Williams and the exceptional team she formed this year. Her plans and vision for engaging current and prospective members will play a central role in driving membership growth. By collaborating with Elvia’s team, the network can create a more accessible, uplifting, and meaningful experience for all members, as their efforts will focus on engagement, professional development, and cultivating a place where real estate professionals can expand, flourish, and achieve their goals collectively.

The plan to expand membership also hinges on providing valuable opportunities for growth, learning, and connection. The network will focus on hosting high-quality events, offering mentorship programs, and enhancing educational resources. By emphasizing the benefits of joining Women's Council of REALTORS®, I believe we will attract a diverse group of real estate professionals who can learn from and support one another.

One key aspect of the strategy is leveraging social media and digital outreach to connect with potential members. Our Social Media Chair, Nicky New will play a critical role in promoting events, sharing success stories, and engaging with the wider real estate community online. Through these efforts, the network intends to build a strong

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digital presence that reflects the vibrancy and value of the organization.

The new year begins with a powerful event titled *New Year Mindset and Motivation*, which will take place on January 16th, coinciding with the first board meeting. This event is designed to inspire members to start 2025 with intention, focus, and a positive outlook.

Featuring motivational speakers and actionable strategies, it promises to energize attendees and set the tone for a year of growth and achievement. The location for the event is to be determined, but it will be a must-attend for members looking to kick off the year with purpose.

The January board meeting will serve as a launchpad for the year’s strategic initiatives. In addition to announcing new committees, the board will discuss plans to enhance member engagement, provide more networking opportunities, and offer educational programs tailored to the evolving needs of real estate professionals.

As WCR-SA enters 2025, we stand ready to make 2025 another landmark year. The vision is clear: build a larger, more connected, and more empowered membership. By focusing on growth, innovation, and community, the network is poised to offer unparalleled support to its members. our leadership, combined with the dedication of my fellow board members and the visionary efforts of Elvia Williams and her team, ensures that the upcoming year will be filled with opportunities to learn, connect, and succeed.

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Phillips and Associates Realty Volunteering

Century 21 Scott Myers, Realtors Holiday Party

Phillips and Associates Realty spent a day volunteering at Hill Country Daily Bread Ministries after a month-long food drive in which they were able to donate a full truck load of goods to help serve families in need throughout 8 Hill Country counties.

Everyone had a wondeful time at the Century 21 Scott Myers, Realtors annual holiday party held at La Familia De Mi Tierra on December 10th.

Leti Bridges, Christina Antoun, Elizabeth Blue, Jordan Phillips, Nikita Greene, Kaitlynn Phillips and Felicia Clark

(back row) Jordan Phillips, Tom Phillips, Allan Anders, Christina Antoun, Leti Bridges. (front row) Kaitlynn Phillips, Felicia Clark and Elizabeth Blue

January 2025

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NARPM

Brenda Davila / SAMAC, NARPM Past President

Woosh: 2024 Flew By. So, What’s Next For SAMAC I hope you’re as excited as I am for 2025. License renewed, mandatory ethics completed, earned two designations and paid annual dues to my go to professional organizations. Clean slate and ready for what property management throws my way or at least have the positive mindset and the right tools to back me up.

You know that to feel equipped and ready to go, you should have been working months prior to now to get to where you find yourself ready to meet the challenges life throws your way. With that said, if you’ve been disorganized, procrastinated or haven’t been involved

2025

with the community or a real estate group, you’re not alone. However, to stand out, you need to be honest with yourself, identify the issue, change the habit to move forward to reap different results. If you’re ready, let’s start today One of the greatest things about the real estate business is that reinvention is always welcome. If you don’t like something today, change it. Let’s get out there and make 2025 the year of your reinvention and see where this journey takes you.

NARPM knows exactly how that works in that every year, leadership gets appointed, takes an oath and moves into their new position which entails being responsible for helping keep the chapter together and introducing members to the latest techniques and systems for conducting business. This is accomplished through use of in person speakers, educational classes, socials, and community service events, to name a few. This responsibility is not

to be taken lightly, as the chapter is both locally and nationally recognized.

SAMAC has exceptional leadership with a national backbone to help lead the way for Professional Property Managers out there participating in important things such as serving on your local SABOR board or on some of the numerous committees or in other roles time and time again.

This year SAMAC’s Christmas Party and Officers Installation took place on December 6 at Ivy Hall in the King Williams district. It was a chilly clear night, with outdoor reception surrounded by warm cozy lighting, multiple ambient sitting areas filled with firepits and heaters throughout keeping us warm on the dance floor with a perfect backdrop of the Tower of Americas. The food and the company was awesome and the total scene was uplifting. It’s always perfect spending time with our peers and friends outside of work celebrating the new officers and the exiting of the current leaders being recognized for their efforts and accomplishments.

Allow me to introduce the SAMAC 2025 Board of Directors: Lacy Hendricks, RMP®, President; Nicholas Brumgard, President Elect; Teresa Brown, Vice President; Jessice Masters, Secretary and Jessice Case, RMP®, Treasurer.

This year's President’s Charity of Choice is the March of Dimes and the Theme is “Live Long and Prosper”.

Congratulations to all and here’s to a new and exciting year!

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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: January 9 – Executive Board Meeting January 15- Chapter Meeting: Pablo Gonzalez of Vendoroo, Building a Word of Mouth Flywheel January 28- NARPM Grassroots Advocacy Class FYI: Don’t forget we changed our meeting hours from 10am-1pm to 11am1pm. 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.

16

RE Newsline

January 2025

Follow Us @renewsline

Justin and Diana Taylor, both Natural Home Realty

Rachel Davis with CDR Property Group and Jamie Hinson with Texas Premier Realty

Megan Cloud, VIP Mortgage and Christine Holloway, Keller Williams Heritage

Claudia McShane, Premier Realty Group, Sophear Wilson, McKnight Title

Karen Evans, RE Newsline and Robert Guerra, Barton Co., Carpets

Mary Garcia and Ted York with Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper

Demetrio Gonzalez, Dana Poole, Molly Harvey, Arlene Chalkley, and Lisa Stinson all with ERA

Scott Myers, Centry 21 Scott Myers and Rita Santamaria, Champions School of Real Estate

Faces And Places Karen Evans / Contributing Writer

Kara Stevens: Singer / Songwriter Kara Stevens has always been different. People never understood the workings of her unique brain. Coaches and doctors told her she was a prodigy when it came to music and the arts, and she learned quickly. In high school, she was a 4-year varsity 5A All-State pitcher. The NEISD Hall of Fame inducted me in 2005 for pitching 256 strikeouts in a single season. She also tried out for the USA Olympic Softball team in 2006 to complete my pitching career. But enough about sports. She has been singing since she was born. Fun fact: When she was younger, she sang a lot.

She had a very deep voice; kids would call her "Man Voice" in school and throw rocks at her to make fun. When she was 7 years old, someone suggested that she should visit an ENT to examine her vocal cords. So she did. They informed her that she had the most severe vocal cord nodules they had ever observed. They feared that the nodules could develop into cancer, prompting them to recommend surgery to remove her vocal cords and begin teaching her sign language, as they believed it would permanently impair her ability to speak. Her mom knew better. She knew she could never stop singing, so she sent her to a vocal coach.

She was the backup singer for George Strait. She taught her how to breathe 1-Feb

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RE Newsline

January 2025

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while singing, and it was life-changing for her. Her throat cleared up, and the doctors said it was truly a miracle. Still to this day, they say hervoice is flawless. They sent her to 7 doctors to make sure it was for real. Miracles do occur, and She remains grateful that God bestowed that one upon her. Currently, she is so blessed that life has taken her to the highest level yet in her music career. She is currently traveling to Nashville, working with Steve Dorff.

The best songwriter in the world. He serves as her producer, and she was thrilled when he included her voice in his music. They are creating two amazing albums together. Singing his music feels like breathing. That's how you know you finally found your sound.

Every month she travels to Nashville to record with her best friend and manager, Linda Drake, at my side. she has always been the kind of person with a tiny circle of friends in her life, but when Linda came in, it was life-changing. Kara said, “Her unwavering support and guidance have enabled me to soar.” She is so blessed she's on this journey with her.

What Got Her Into Music?

God got her into music. Her soul chose it. She came out of the womb singing. she didn't know why; she just

Brenda Mullen

RE/MAX Unity

Andres Andujar

CEO Hemisfair Park

Jamie Balderas Howard Shelf,II

had to sing! It was part of her DNA. Since she was little, she always felt she was meant for more, for greater things.

At such a young age, she wasn't exactly sure what that meant, but she knew she wanted to make a difference in the world. Make it a better place. If there's one thing that can achieve this, it's the right song, delivered with the right voice. Everyone needs music. There is a song for every emotion, for every situation, and that song is what gets us through difficult times, the wonderful times, and yes... even the sad times. She always knew she wanted to be the messenger for the world and use her voice.

The Recording Process: The first time she walked into Steve Dorff's studio, she was so ner-

not require any warm-up." she laughed hysterically and said, "Yes, you're right.

I never warm up; I'm just nervous." He said, "I know, but you're going to do great. Just get in there and sing, girl!"

Ever since then, they have been on a roll. Steve is awesome to work with.

He's a perfectionist and an awesome producer. She loves working with someone who pushes her and motivates her. With Steve, it is all about the little things. He pays close attention to the breath, the phrasing, and the effortless delivery of a word. He has exactly what he wants in his head, and it is her job as the artist to give him what he hears and to feel the emotion he has written. Her favorite song from the album is just one of many! She loves "Blue Rose," Face to Face," "Come Home," "Perfect on Paper," and "Did I Love." Indeed, she has a deep affection for every song on the album. It's difficult not to. You will see what she means when it comes out in February!

What's Next?

She aspires to continue collaborating with Steve Dorff, secure a Grammy Award, and explore endless possibilities beyond that. It's all about manifesting and working hard, and she has been doing that since she was born.

Her soul has always known where it belongs on this earth, and she feels as if she is climbing to reach the top. All she can say is that working with Steve Dorff has already brought her to the pinnacle of success. Now we just need a hit...That's what's coming next!

vous. Naturally, as an artist, you strive to excel and deliver your finest performance on the assigned songs. So, she walked in and said, "Just give me a minute; I need to warm up." Steve chuckled and remarked, "We both know that the most talented singers do

Kara Stevens Singer/Songwriter Concert Studio 1502 Austin Hwy, Suite 107 210-837-8502 karastevens22@gmail.com

Brian West

Chef Brian West, Inc

Karen Trueblood

Keller Williams Heritage

Janet Key

SA Portfolio KW RE

Brenda Clarke

Keller Williams Legacy

LPT Realty

Rob Vogt

Vogt Auction

17-Feb

Anna Gongora

BHHS PenFed Realty

Howard Shelf and Associates

Gloria Gallego

Realty Executives of S.A

19-Feb

Jane Bash

Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper

Andrea Chamberlain Own-it Realty

Amanda Schonfeld

Coldwell Banker D'Ann Harper

20-Feb

Tina Young

Basore Real Estate

Delcina Smith

Century 21 The Hills Realty

DeAnna Mercado

Mercado Vaughn Realty

Lyn Wolff

1st Independence Realty

Debra Janes

Niche Properties

Jamie Lopez

San Antonio Elite Realty

Carlos Perez

Vortex Realty

Debbie Craig

Key Realty

Dina Murphy

Coldwell Banker D'Ann Harper

Trish Deberry

Centro San Antonio

Ashley Robertson

Kuper Sotheby's Int'l. Realty

Mark Malesky

Water Features of Texas

Ibrahim Dinibutun

RE/MAX North-San Antonio

Mike Holloway

Mike Holloway Custom Homes

Debra Forshey

Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper

John Austin

Chris Burkhalter, Realtor

Shelly Johnson

RE/MAX Associates

Jeanine Rochelle

Home Team of America

James Chudnow

King Realtors

Chris Sandahl

Steps Realty

Vanessa Perkins

Troy Realtors

23-Feb

Margaret Davis

Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper

Missy Stagers

M. Stagers Realty Partners

Sergio Martinez

Real

24-Feb

Emma Burney

Burney Properties

Jerrie Barnett

Home Team of America

Kate Park

Nix Realty

Kayleigh Gotschall

eXp Realty

Luke Rogers

Texas Land Associates, I

Wendy Ague

Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper

Marie Brunne

Kuper Sotheby's International Realty

Hector Rodriguez

Sandler Training

10-Feb

Denver Cook

Tony Landaverde

Realtor

12-Feb

Patricia Estrada

8-Feb

9-Feb

21-Feb

Fernando Quinones Levi Rodgers Real Estate Ron Sowell

RE/MAX Asssociates

Cat Lodge

Coldwell Banker D'Ann Harper

Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper

Sue Trautner

Vecino Realty

Dixie Arndt

Garrett Wright Properties

Jackie Galvan

1st Choice Realty Group

Vortex Realty

Bill Sisoian

Freetail Brewing

Janeene Edwards

Keller Williams Legacy

Irving Schuetze

Irving Schuetze Realty

Andy Smith

Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper

Bob Jacobs

RE/MAX Associates

Trudy Pape

Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper

Susan Espinosa

Compass RE Texas

Kimberly Howell

Kimberly Howell Properties

Rene Garcia

JB Goodwin

Joe Zepeda

Home Team of America

Rosie Kelch-Delbosque

Sylvia Perez

SABOR

Sara Baird

LoneStar Properties

Maria Ayala

Realty Executives of S.A.

Kathy Clark

Keller Williams City View

Rich Palacios

Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper

Antonio Sanchez

VIP Realty

Leticia Castro

LC Real Estate Solutions

Yvonne Langdon

Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper

Tetyana Smith

JPAR San Antonio

Rene Garcia

Vision Real Estate

Carmen Bean

eXp Realty

Anne Gamboa

Phyllis Browning Company

Rene Leith

Bandera Ranch Realty

Pam Powell

Kuper Sotheby’s Int’l. Realty

Oksana Klufas

Troy Realtors

Ken Davis

eXp Realty

Pat West

Middleton Group Realty

Jill Howe

Nix Realty Co

Marla Lynn Barrera

Marla Lynn Properties

Honey Knight

Coldwell Banker D'Ann Harper

Angela Rodriguez

Coldwell Banker D'Ann Harper

Carmen Lucas

CB Harper Global Luxury

Patricia Parker Weber Coldwell Banker D'Ann Harper

Crystal Bradford

LPT Realty

Armando Rodriguez Old Republic Title

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The Real Estate Team

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RE Newsline

January 2025

Follow Us @renewsline Is there a Chef that you admire most?

Jose Andres, because of his humanitarian. selfless service to global disasters and his passion and love for cooking. His spanish dishes of Patatas Bravas, Fennel Apple Salad, and smoked Tomato Tartare are an inspiration to me.

HAPPY CRITIC

Karen Evans / Contributing Writer

Connecting Our Community with Flavors of The World Welcome to "The Happy Critic" column I created for folks who love extraordinary experiences. I use uplifting words to draw attention to remarkable people and their stories about preparing, serving, eating, and savoring food. I share only the best. It is my pleasure to introduce Chef Juan Cardona.

Chef, what is your story?

I was born in Puerto Rico and have Latin-centric and American Regional Roots. I have classical culinary training and an associate's degree from the International Culinary School at the Art Institute of San Antonio. I received my MBA with a specialty in Entrepreneurship. I served 26 years in the Army training as a Lieutenant Colonel and believed in the Seven Army Values: Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage. I am committed to our environment and community and driven to create new ways to experience food continually. I recognize that I am just a steward of God, facilitating and enabling God's will through my company, Chef'd Junction, whose core effort is serving the community with healthy, fresh, flavorful, and sexy meals. God is Chef's Junction CEO. Can you tell me about your fantasy team and their specialties?

Our team is composed of sea-

soned Chefs. Besides being classically trained, each brings their genre of specialty skills to the table. Some were born in other countries, and some traveled the world, studied abroad, or were raised and trained in a specific country, enabling them to be culinary ambassadors and curate specific genres of cuisine to perfection. We also have some new and up-and-coming Chef Apprentices who have a passion for the service and a love for food and are eager to learn and share their growing culinary skill sets with our community. We blend both spectrums of our team members so that our young future Chefs can see and do what looks right with the mentorship of our seasoned Chefs in different catering and personal Chef dining experiences. Our passion is to make your dining event memorable by connecting you with our exceptional Chefs and bringing the flavors of the world home.

What is the story and inspiration behind Chef Junction?

I have been passionate about cooking since I was five years old, thanks to my stepdad, who taught me how to make Napolitano Pizza.

Thanks to the Army and vacation trips, I was enamored with the varied flavor profiles each country offered tat were "foodgasmic." I thought, wouldn't it be wonderful to bring the flavors of the world home and share that euphoric gastronomic experience with commu-

nities filled with like minded curious food enthusiasts?

I know you to be very creative, can you share about some of your favorite dishes and food memories?

We currently have over 20 signature dishes that are custmer insoired. We are always eager to showcase these dishes to our patrons as a branding effort to cement our delivary of unique culinary creations to our community. My personal favorite Chef Junction creatins dishes are the Smoke SalmonTartare Mini Bites, Rockefeller Mushrooms, Southwestern Cream Sauce, 1872 Authentic Bean Flan, Hangar Steak with Asian Chimichurri Sauce, Blazing Miso Cocktail Shrimp, Shrimp Scampi with our version of

Shrimp Paesano Sauce on crostini bed, and the kist goes on. Part of our creative inspiration is attributed to or "foodgasmic"journeys across the world, from Italy, Germany, Dominican Republic, Spain, France and Afghanistan.

What do you cook at home?

When I have time to reward myself, I entertain friends and family. I go all out, give them a show, and eperiment with my up and coming creations. Otherwise, since I often seem busy, I whip up a quick hamburger, salad, hotdog, or other fast food or healthy items

What are your goals over the next five to ten years?

To solidify our market positioning for our Catering Division while building multiple recurring revenue streams. We dream of opening various channels in the

San Antonio food service industry through our Personal Chef Agency and Ghost Kitchen Operations with excellent and affordable delivered food to high population zones in San Antonio.

To secure contacts with local venues for kitchen operation services, eventually opening several genres-themed ultra-fine dining Michelinlevel restaurants in Texas. Being a food enthusiast, words that come to mind when describing Chef Junction are Service, Delicious Experience, Scratch Kitchen, Quality Execution, Specialty Sauces. and Corinthians 10:31 "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all; for the glory of God. Buen Apetito!

Chef Junction embrases a community through memorable private dining pop-up events, catered events, catered events, corporate events, personal Chef services, and private cooking lessons.

Chef Juan Cardona Chef Junction: www.chefjunction.com info@chefjunction.com 210-429-0798

Visit us online for exclusive content.

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NEWSNOTES & ANNOUNCEMENTS Fernandez Joins EXIT Realty EXIT Realty Advisors is thrilled to announce their latest agent, Adella Fernandez. She works our Austin area as we are now located both in SA and Austin.

Adella is a FERNANDEZ native with a knack for policy, alongside a passion for helping folks ethically and efficiently find a property that meets their needs. Her parallel background in governance and law helps her bring a fresh perspective to the real estate market, solidifying a system that allows her to best negotiate one of the largest purchases your finances will endure. You will work as a team, have a streamlined process, clear marketing strategy, and you're invited to walk with her in this process. Outside of real estate, she divulges in local, Texas, and federal policies, volunteer and advocate for topics of interest, within the real estate meets economics and governance realms. Her family and her enjoy and support local Texas economies, Chambers of Commerce,

nonprofits, community events and many times, clients become residents; residents become friends.

Behind her is the full force of EXIT Realty Advisors, an invitation only brokerage firm that believes in quality of work, not quantity of transactions. From our well-vetted vendors, builders, contractors and community members, we build and maintain a rapport we can then pass on to you and new neighbors. To execute your experience, EXIT Premier Realty utilizes our expertise to garner the outcome you're most aiming for, regarding the home buying, selling and investing experience. Water conservation efforts, land use codes, intricate details the average agent may scoff at, I turn into an opportunity to secure the most sound, thorough, pragmatic approach to maintaining a positive residual rapport with clients and businesses, even after closing day.

For more info contact Cher Miculka, Broker/Franchisee, Text Cherlock to 85377 or email: Broker@exitrealtyadvisors.

Baked Sweet Potatoes Stuffed With Roasted Grapes, Goat Cheese And Honey!

Ingredients: 4 sweet potatoes 2 cups red, seedless grapes 1 teaspoon grapeseed oil 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 4 ounces goat cheese 2 tablespoons honey + additional for drizzling pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg

CENTURY 21 Scott Myers Realtors Welcomes Rocha CENTURY 21 Scott Myers Realtors is pleased to welcome Patti Rocha to its 11830 Wurzbach Rd. office.

Rocha has 13 years of experience in the field.

“We are so pleased to announce that Patti has ROCHA joined our team!” said Scott Myers, who manages CENTURY 21 Scott Myers Realtors. “We believe her experience will greatly enhance the services we provide to our customers in the San Antonio community.” Rocha specializes in Residential.

“I’m very excited to join the CEN-

TURY 21 Scott Myers Realtors office and I look forward to sharing all of the great resources CENTURY 21 provides with my clients Patti said” A great advantage is that Patti speaks Spanish and German.

As local market experts, CENTURY 21 Scott Myers Realtors sales professionals are uniquely qualified to help consumers navigate the opportunities that exist in the local real estate market and provide current sellers with an excellent opportunity to gain additional exposure for their properties.

For Open House listings in San Antonio, consumers can visit the CENTURY 21 Scott Myers Realtors Web site at http:// www.century21scottmyers.com/.

Your Ad Could Be Here Join the RE Newsline program to reach OVER 40,000* monthly combined readers across multiple media platforms!

Call or email our sales team today to find out more!

210.529.2931 karen@renewsline.com

Instructions: 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Wash and dry potatoes. Poke holes in each with a fork, then wrap each tightly in aluminum foil. Bake for an hour or until tender to the touch. Unwrap the foil, and cut a slit down the middle of each sweet potato. Let sit until cool enough to handle.

2. Increase oven temperature to 450 degrees. Lay grapes on a nonstick baking sheet and drizzle with grapeseed oil and a pinch each of salt and pepper, then toss to coat. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until grapes begin to burst. Remove from the oven and let cool.

3. Once the potatoes are cool, gently remove the flesh with a spoon, keeping the potato intact. Add the sweet potato flesh to a bowl, then mash with 3 ounces of goat cheese, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, pepper, and honey. Taste and adjust seasonings if desired, then scoop flesh into the potato skins. Re-warm the potatoes in the oven, then top them with the remaining goat cheese. Add grapes on top and drizzle with honey.

*This is a live updated list and actual numbers may vary from month to month

To all of our friends of the paper over the past 43 years..

Serve with delicious, glazed cod. Buon Appetito!

Karen Evans!

Curator, Connector, Cook Karenevans@email.com 210-529-2931

For another amazing year gone by. You mean the world to us, and we would’nt be here today without you.

David - RE Newsline

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January 2025

WCR White Out Party At Picks Bar

Carri Amescua, Rider Realty with Angelica Erosa and Cathy Heshmat, both San Antonio Portfolio, Keller Williams

Elvia Williams, Your Time Inspections, Rosemary Gomez, Old Republic Title and Tonya Stuart, A Door to Floors

Robin Grove, Pioneer Realty, Ashley Walters, Paramount Credit services and Diana Herrera, Red Bird Realty

Pat Farrell, REN and Valerie Wilshire, Independence Title

Americo Mendes, Ringo Vasquez and Elizabeth Cabrera, all with Lone Star National Bank, Event Sponsors

Kim Miller Perry, Keller Williams Heritage and Cathy Heshmat, San Antonio Portfolio, Keller Williams

Scan to see and download more pictures from this event and others.

Patricia Zars, Z and R Realty and Bertha Trevino, Builders Guide

Arianna Pulido, Rider Realty and Tiffany Gaitan, United Realty Group