Do You Have Enough Humor And Laughter In Your Life?
Defined, laughter is a physical reaction and emotion that is usually in response to humor or some other stimuli that produces a sound often varying in intensity and duration. The best part about laughter is how it can affect one’s physical well-being as it requires participation from the body’s brain, diaphragm, facial muscles and respiratory system. Physically, laughter can help to relieve pain, reduce stress, improve heart health and even boost one’s immunity, while mentally, laughing can reduce tension and improve one’s mood. I can’t imagine anything more relaxing or more fun than spending time with people who laugh freely.
There are several types of laughter and I am sure most have encountered them at some time or other like the malicious kind where one laughs at the discomfort he has caused another or the nervous kind in response to an uncomfortable or embarrassing situation. One of the best kinds is the belly laugh, often loud and unrestrained, which could easily become contagious so that others will laugh along with them. Some may actually cackle, giggle, guffaw, wheeze or snort their laughs while others may laugh silently with lips closed but the laugh could be evident in their eyes. And finally there Is the etiquette laugh, offered because one knows it isexpected of them.
To satisfy my fascination with the English language I will frequently pick up a book that addresses the ever present quirks that seem to permeate our speech or may give examples of various word sequences that are often misused, and the result is that I will get my quota of humor for the day. I plan to share a variety of those quirks with you here and hope that by so doing you too will find some, if not all of them amusing also. The following content is from books written by Richard Lederer, an American linguist, author, speaker and teacher as he addresses our Anguished
English.
In sections he devotes to student papers turned into their English or History teachers he begins with a major faux pas, “In 1957,Eugene O’Neill won a Pullet Surprise” and goes on to include the following: “Last year many lives were caused by accidents.”; “A virgin forest is a place where the hand of man has never set foot.”; “Although the patient had never been fatally ill before, he woke up dead.”; “The death of Francis Macomber was a turning point in his life.”; “The Gorgons had long snakes in their hair. They looked like women, only more horrible.” And a true gem: “The difference between a king and a president is that the king is the son of his father and the president isn’t.”
And in sections that address excuses written by parents, for their children being absent from school: “Mary could not come to school because she has been bothered by very close veins.”; “Please excuse Jimmy for being. It was his father’s fault.”; “My daughter was absent yesterday because she was tired, She spent the weekend with the Marine’s.”; “Please excuse Mary from being absent yesterday. She was in bed with gramps.”; “Dear School: Please excuse John being absent on Jan, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, and also 33.”; “Please excuse Gloria from Jim today. She is administrating.” and “Teacher, Please excuse Mary for being absent. She was sick and I had her shot.” It must be hilarious in the nation’s school breakrooms for teachers as they share other gems from both of the previous sections.
And it can also be amusing listening to those involved as they explain the reason they had an accident: “A truck backed through my windshield and into my wife’s face.”; “An invisible car came out of nowhere, struck my car, and vanished.”; “I pulled away from the side of the road, glanced at my mother-in-law, and headed over the embankment.”; “ The accident happened when the
right front door of a car came around the corner without giving a signal.”; “The gentleman behind me struck me on the backside. He then went to rest in a bush with just his rear end showing.” and, “The telephone pole was approaching fast. I was attempting to swerve out of its way when I struck my front end.”
As to the art of writing ads: “Dinner Special – Turkey $2.35; Chicken or Beef $2.25; Children $2.00.”; “For sale: antique desk suitable for lady with thick legs and large drawers.”; “Wanted: unmarried girls to pick fresh fruit and produce at night.”; “Great Dames for sale.”; “Toaster: A gift that every member of the family appreciates. Automatically burns toast.”; “Stock up and save. Limit: one.”; “We do not tear your clothing with machinery. We do it carefully by hand.”; “Sheer stockings. Designed for fancy dress but so serviceable that lots of women wear nothing else.”; “Used cars: Why go elsewhere to be cheated? Come here first!”; “Wanted: Man to take care of cow that does not smoke or drink.” And of course – “3-year-old teacher needed for pre-school. Experience preferred.”
And then there are the summary dictations by physicians after they have seen a patient – You can be certain that those who transcribe the material are howling with laughter!: “Bleeding started in the rectal area and continued all the way to Los Angeles.”; “She stated she had been constipated for most of her life until 1989 when she got a divorce.”; “The patient suffers from occasional, constant, infrequent headaches.”; “Between you and me we ought to be able to get this lady pregnant.”; “The patient was in his usual state of good health until his plane ran out of gas and crashed.”; “Patient was alert and unresponsive.”; “Heart problem is fixed. The patient died at 10:07 this morning.”; “The patient was to have a bowel resection. However, he took a job as a stockbroker instead.”; “If he
wakes up, he is to have repeat doses of codeine plus lemon/honey/whiskey every 10 seconds in a steam room.”; “I sounded her with a #26 sound, and she let out a scream that broke two beakers in the examining room and caused a patient at the delicatessen around the corner to aspirate his Ruben sandwich.”
We wouldn’t want to forget the treats that come during a session in our courtrooms: From an attorney: Q. “And can you show me a copy of that oral agreement?”; Q. Sir, what is your IQ? A. Well, I can see pretty well, I think.”; Q. “Where did you go next?” A. “ Over by the hill where all the people conjugate.”; From the Court –Q. “Do you have a motion to make at this time?” A. “Yes. At this time, Your Honor, we would move that the jury be discharged and the jury be hung because of inability the to reach a verdict,”; Q. “Miss, were you cited in the accident?” A. Yes Sir. I was so ‘cited I peed all over myself.”; The truth of the matter is that you were not an unbiased, objective witness. Isn’t it?. You too were shot in the whole ordeal.” A. “No sir. I was shot midway between the ordeal and the navel.”; Q. “Are you qualified to give a urine sample?” A. “Yes sir. I have been since early childhood.” From attorneys: Q. “Was it you or your younger brother who was killed in the war?” and Q. “Were you present in the court this morning when you were sworn in?”; and one of the best: “Doctor, how many autopsies have you performed on dead people?”
I hope you found at least some of these little quips to be entertaining and as a result added to your laughter level for the day. If not, it may be time for you to find what it is that interests you and what it takes to make you laugh. As mentioned before the health benefits of laughing are too great to miss out on and, as a bonus, in most cases being a person who can laugh readily is certainly fun to be around and is usually considered to be a great social
Pat Farrell / Senior Contributing Writer
JoHelen Clark Coldwell Banker D'Ann Harper
Lorena Pena RE/MAX Associates
Sandi Peerman JB Goodwin Realtors
Fran Daniels Daniels and Daniels Real Estate
Stephanie Rodgers RE/MAX Corridor
Sarah Permenter Marshall Reddick Real Estate
Kit Preston Home Team of America
Roy Bogar Coldwell
Amy
Karen Evans / Contributing Writer
Water Features of Texas, LLC. HERE'S TO ART! HERE'S TO LOVE
Water Features of Texas, LLC., is a premier Designer, Builder, Contractor and/or Installer of Waterfalls, Streams, Koi Ponds, Water Gardens and/or Waterscapes, Architectural Fountains, Formal Features, Pondless Features and Pool Lagoons. The company serves home and business owners within the San Antonio, Boerne, Helotes, Fredericksburg, Kerrville, Blanco, Wimberly, Austin, New Braunfels regions and beyond throughout Texas.
Our roots are strong and deep as they have been cultivated and nurtured over nearly a quarter century since 1999. The owner, Mark Malesky, originally started out in the landscaping and lawn care industry. After
receiving a brochure from Aquascape Design, one of the
leading companies in the United States in pond construction, he ordered their literature and videos on how to build water features and decided to open his own business. Mark leaned into his faith and with prayerful consideration, he built his first water feature for a dear family friend on her ranch.
As Mark started his first project, he would haul a trailer of rocks a couple miles down the road all the while thinking, “If I can make her happy, I could make anyone happy.” Mark would dream about the water feature each night and the next day feel guided by God where to place each rock in her pond and waterfall. Once he finished, he asked her if she liked it. Her reply, “ It’s the most beautiful thing I have ever seen.” That’s when Mark knew God had given him this gift of creating unique natural water features.
Since that time, Mark has enjoyed great success designing and installing exceptional one of a kind water gardens and other stunning water features for countless clients. Branded with award winning creations as one of the premier water feature companies of San Antonio and beyond it is the foundation to ensure the stability for Water Features
of Texas. The Water Features of Texas team has nearly 60 years of combined experience to expertly design your creatively unique vision from conceptual 2D and/or 3D renderings to tangible fruition. From residential to commercial, it is tremendously rewarding to hear clients tell about how we create the most aesthetically pleasing water-scapes anyone has ever seen. "Mark, every water feature you build looks natural, almost like it was laid by the hand of the Lord and not by the hand of the man".
It has been a privilege providing creations and giving back to the community for non profit organizations including: Returning Heroes Homes (Fort Sam Houston) and Extreme Home MakeOver (Returning Hero project in Seguin and Gordon Hartman). Water Features of Texas’ largest project to date is a nearly 20' high by 50' wide natural waterfalls flowing into the San Antonio River at Embassy Suites Riverwalk-Downtown.
Additional artistic creations and renovation work include:
Witte Museum (water features), San Antonio Zoo (Butterfly Garden natural habitat for koi and goldfish), Singing Water Vineyards (water features and artificial turf), Greater San Antonio Builder Association (water feature), Paesanos Restaurant (renovation work), Aldaco's Restaurant at Stone Oak (renovation work), Cascada at Canyon Lake entrance (water feature), and Hyatt Regency Hill County Hotel and Spa (cave water falls).
Currently, Water Features of
Texas is completing a water feature for Texas Parks and Wildlife as part of the renovations for Indian Lodge at Davis Mountains State Park.
Alongside award-winning builders, architects, and designers, Water Features of Texas has designed and built stunning water-scapes with lush green landscapes and gardens to enrich the backdrops of homes, businesses, and other spaces throughout the area. We have graced the ambiances of hotels, professional buildings, and other popular commercial sites, garnering numerous awards through the Greater San Antonio Builders Association and Parade of Homes for their impeccable designs. There are no limits to your imagination when you work with our company. Let Water Features of Texas help begin your journey here.
Furthermore, Mark has been honored to be part of the following community based organizations:
San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo/Rodeo Contestant Hospitality SavingAHerosPlace.org Miss Rodeo America –Ambassador 100ClubSA.org Cystic Fibrosis Gala Committee 2024
Water Features of Texas supports and honors Christian beliefs and values. “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13
For more information, please contact Water Features of Texas at: info@waterfeaturesoftexas.com or call 210-728-6016.
RE/MAX Elite Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting by Boerne Chamber of Commerce
Kim Young, Supervisory Broker, Nina Lozano Broker/Owner, Norma Hinojosa Broker/Owner, Norma Turkington Broker/Owner
Kim Young and Gilbert Gonzalez CEO SABOR
Madge Rashell, Guild Mortgage, Paula Grigsby, TAP FCU and Gwen Derry, Old Republic Title
Bob Leonard and Diane Craig, both RE/MAX Associates
Erin Hillis and Efrem Martinez, with Ellen Schuler, Cornerstone Home Lending.
Carmen Soto and Michelle Alford, both Vivid Realty
THE WAY I SEE IT
Cathey Meyer / Contributing Writer
Gold, Silver and Bronze
“The thrill of victory and the agony of defeat,” were the famous words of one, Jim McKay, ABC Sports commentator for many of us back in the days of four channel television. The opening sequence of ABC’s Wide World of Sports showed athletes in the prime of triumph and the anguish of loss. The Olympics of the 1900’s was simple in their presentation and broadcast live no matter the time zone of the country. No tape-delay back in the day. It was your choice to alter your sleep pattern and learn who won what medal in a collection of sports that were traditional and easy to follow.
Change is inevitable in all aspects of life, but the Olympics are changing faster in their every two to four year appearance than the shades of blond that find my roots every three months. With the passing of the 2024 Summer Games in Paris, I am not so sure I am ready for the 2028 games in Los Angeles. In a pledge that we would not fall prey to the call of these most recent Olympics, we found our-
selves in lock-step with the live broadcasts from across the pond. The excitement of watching in real time that was not in the middle of the night made it simple to cheer on our ‘amateur’ favorites. The addition of multiple cable channel broadcasts made it possible to witness almost every competition—and this is where we got lost.
The Olympics have been around forever—literally. I am no historian, but brief research filled me in on those early religious events that featured sports involving running, jumping and throwing. Those would include most track events, horse stuff, and heaving heavy objects. Things they did daily to survive back before cell phones. ‘Modern’ Olympics added water events, games with sticks and baskets, events with wheels and targets. All these events were doable for the common man—not at an Olympic level, but easy to participate in at the local park. The events were relatable even if the athletes were unicorns.
The closing of the most recent Summer Olympics left me pondering
what truly qualifies as Olympic talent. Those skateboarders that tear up our local walkways, zip passed us like they own the sidewalk and cannot decide how to wear a baseball cap are now Olympic medalist. I actually stayed up way too late one night watching the spider monkey competition as wall climbers raced to the top of wall in under five seconds. I blinked and missed several races. As a basketball fan, I am all in on the traditional basketball games, but why are we subjected to 3 on 3 basketball competition? Shouldn’t that be 1 on 1 playing H.O.R.S.E.?
As a very average swimmer, I admire the racing and relay events, but I am at a total loss on Artistic Synchronized Swimming or Team Diving. How do you know which athlete to watch? I need some guidelines and I am not watching brainless television to have to do homework. The kayaking events, yes there was more than one, were very confusing. Why did the kayaker get dropped from a platform to start the race? Was this kayak diving with a distance finish? Do not get me started on the surfing event. Nothing seems fair in a sport where you rely on Mother Nature to provide the venue of a rad wave to ride to the finish.
The equestrian events were way out of my pay grade. The sport of using horses for competition purposes has a deep history, but after watching horse after horse take tiny steps side-
ways, I fell asleep and missed all the scoring. I briefly watched the other horse events. There was a lot of jumping and whispering, but the course had no logical flow and even the horses looked bored. Fortunately, professional golfers were allowed to compete in the Olympics, so I got my nap in a traditional sport I understood. When I woke up, a familiar face won their gold medal.
Track and field is a guaranteed engager of competitive sports observation. That is where I learned the value of a millisecond, a good body lean, and too much preparation for too little glory. None-the-less, I was fascinated by the stylish approaches to the start of each event. The hair; the nails; and oh, the bling. I would think most of that extra accessorizing would slow that average athlete down, but then I remember these were not average athletes. A few ounces of gold and karats of diamonds just add to the need for speed. And finally, let us note that Break Dancing was an Olympic event this year. What?! I have no words. Every Olympic year I claim I will not be watching, and every Olympic year I dive right in and drink the Gatorade. I do miss the true fouryear performances of Winter and Summer Olympics in the same year. 2026 will come soon enough and I cannot wait to witness what is defined as Winter Olympic events. Always a thrill in victory and the agony is just whining about change.
ASSOCIATE SPOTLIGHT
Barton Co., Carpets was established in 1995 by Frank Geramita. Frank was a realtor, real estate broker, and property manager. Frank found that he and his many realtor friends had trouble finding reliable and economical sources for carpet and flooring. Frank decided he would be better off establishing his own flooring company to accommodate this need. Fast forward 29 years, and Barton Co., Carpets has established itself as a leader in the industry.
Frank attributes his success to the loyalty of his real estate associates, his 29 years of association with the San Antonio Board of Realtors, and, most importantly, his dedicated team at Barton Co., Carpets.
In 1999, Robert Guerra joined Barton Co., Carpets. He came on board from Color Tile as a sales associate and soon became the store's sales manager. Over the years, Robert has become a fixture in the real estate industry. He is a frequent supporter of SABOR causes and a sponsor of many SABOR events. Barton Co. has a great office staff headed by the super-personable Roy Tenney, the office manager. He joined the company in June of 2005 after ten years in property management. We have five wonderful sales associates with a combined flooring experience of 105 years. Each has their own unique history and background. We have had the same installation manager, Oscar Gonzalez, for over 25 years.
All of our sales associates are affiliate members of the San Antonio Board of Realtors. One of the many benefits of this association is that we all have the E-Key applications on our phones to access the Supras.
While we are happy to work with the general public, BartonCo., Carpets is unique because we are a business-tobusiness company rather than retail. As a result, we are held to a higher standard while
working on a narrower margin.
Our clients are always welcome in our beautiful showroom at 12202 Bulverde Rd, off Thousand Oaks, close to the Northern Hills Subdivision. We service all of San Antonio and surrounding areas. Our office number is 210-655-8269, and our email address is bartoncocarpets.com.
We look forward to hearing from you!
Trish Galan Premier Realty Group, Megan Cloud, VIP and guest.
Benjamin Godina, G Partners Realty, Amanda Gonzalez , Texas Premier Realty
Rosa Delano Huff, Phyllis Browning with Pamela Sanchez and Kelly Harris both with BHHS PenFed Realty
Jeanne Walker, guest, Tammy Connor, Unity of San Antonio, and Davood Keshmiri Ebadi, Compass Real Estate..
Lisa Munoz and Grant Lopez, both with Kelller Williams Heritage
Cookie Gehring, Keller Williams Heritage and Joshua Gamble, eXp Realty.
Anna Hammad, JPAR and Jan Hicinbothom, RE/MAX Associated
Katherine Tichenor, Movement Mortgage, David Avila, Realty San Antonio Compass and Megan Whitmore, Movement Mortgage
In and Around San Antonio
Local Legends: The Surprising Animals Your Neighbors Have Spotted
Millions of animals call the greater San Antonio area home along with the 2.65 million people that reside here. Deer, foxes, raccoons, buzzards, hawks and squirrels are common sights within the city limits. But, there are a few other residents that often move through town unnoticed by most. We don’t see them - sometimes because their sightings are few and far between, meaning there isn’t a huge population, and sometimes because their lifestyle keeps them from crossing paths with humans too often. Either way - they’re here.
Here is the tiniest sample of some of the amazing creatures that have been spotted in the Alamo City.
Let’s start with the unexpected. I’ve seen so many different animals in town that I try hard not to be too surprised when I see a new creature or learn about a population that’s been in the city as long, or longer, than I have, but this one caught me off guard. While
it is known that San Antonio doesn’t have particularly cold winters, we are certainly not considered tropical, so you may be as surprised as I was to learn about several flocks of bright green Monk Parakeets living in the city. These non-native birds have taken up residence in a few neighborhoods across town. Even more unexpected are sightings of lone peacocks and peacock families. Imagine seeing a peacock and all his feathers walking down the street in your neighborhood! These now established populations were likely the result of released pets.
The next creature totally had me fooled. The first time I saw one of these fluffy rodents swimming through a creek, I hoped I had just spotted a beaver but, sadly it was a non-tree chomping, non-dam building Nutria. Really a giant rat, these orange-toothed creatures are not my favorite invasive population that can be found here. Nutria often live near creeks and are very comfortable in the water, but as
much as they look like a beaver with a tiny tail from afar, I think I’ll keep my distance.
Another (and much more adorable) creature that snuck onto this list is one that I personally have not ever seen in the city limits other than at the zoo, but I was lucky enough to see its fluffy striped tail hanging out of a hollow tree branch in Spring Branch a few years ago. Ring Tailed Cats are very elusive creatures of the night and are rarely spotted. Their striped tails often lead to a mistaken identity with raccoons, but these small raccoon relatives are truly unique. Sometimes called a Civet Cat, these little guys look like a mix between a squirrel, fox, cat, raccoon and lemur. If you are lucky enough to see one of these clever creatures up in a tree, count yourself as one of the special few!
From what I know, San Antonio has a lot of opportunities to see beautiful and interesting birds because of our unique location in migration patterns, so it’s not surprising that a couple birds hopped onto the list. The San Antonio Audubon Society has great resources that allow you to explore at which parks you are most likely to spot different species of birds around San Antonio. Two of my favorite birds to catch glimpses of around town are Scissortailed Flycatchers and Painted Buntings. I love seeing these two species in particular because these unique looking birds are easy to identify from their striking features. The long tail feathers of the
Scissor Tails make them my favorite aerial acrobats to watch as they dip and swoop in the tightest of turns to catch bugs, and the colors of Painting Buntings are like no other bird around, with their striking blues, greens, and reds.
The next creature is one I’d love to see here in terms of thriving ecosystems and biodiversity, but I am not too sure I want to see one of these ever again. The next creatures crawling onto the list are the creepy crawly Texas Giant Red-Headed Centipede or Giant Desert Centipede. These gnarly looking bugs scare me more than flying cockroaches and scorpions… combined, but are actually pretty cool bugs. They are huge, I’m talking 6-8 inches long, and though they look scary, they are really just looking for a buggy snack.
Technically you have the opportunity to run into and all kinds of crazy animals here in San Antonio. From sightings of released pets and nonnative species like giant Apple Snails (yep, they’re the size of an apple) and terrifying looking armor plated catfish called Vermiculated Sailfin Catfish to rare animals that seem to be considering expanding their territory to include San Antonio like feral hogs, bobcats and alligators. There are a lot of creatures that seem to enjoy life deep in the heart of Texas as much as we do. I guess we’re just going to have to test our southern hospitality and figure out a way to live with these little guys.
Aly Crawford / Contributing Writer
John Cortissoz, SWBC Mortgage and Richard Alcorta, LPT Realty
Alison Lynch, My Insurance Group, Tom Fentress, RE/MAX Preferred and Blake Williamson, Levi Rogers Real Estate Group.
Mary Corcoran, SA VAREP Government Affairs Director, Ruben Pena, National VAREP Board Chairman and April Raynor, SA VAREP Treasurer
Laura Migliore and Brian Baize, both with Chicago Title
Efrem Martinez and John Friesenhahn
Paul Gonzalez, mortgage professional and Jollyn Hilliard, LPT Realty
Margo Villarreal and Cookie Gehring, both Keller Williams Heritage
Mike LaMacchia and Sara Blomstrom, Chicago Title.
David Gardner, Sponsor (Movement Mortgage), Diane Gonzales, Premier Realty Group, Cecilia Sosa, Mobile Notary, Ojas Tasker, Tasker Properties.
Valerie Wilshire, Independence Title, Mindi Stange, All City Real Estate and Michele Thomas, Guest
Fran Valdez and Anthony Cardenas, both Capital Title
Janna Valencia, Premier Network and Michelle Gallahan, Insurance Pro
Collaborating For A Cause: SABOR’S Affinity Groups Raise Money For Alamo Post 2
Founded in 1919, The American Legion has long stood as a pillar of community service, veteran advocacy, and patriotic values. Alamo Post 2, one of the oldest and most esteemed and historic posts in the nation, embodies the spirit and mission of this illustrious organization. As additional funding is not provided, the Post relies on volunteers from the Legion and Auxiliary membership and upon donations to carry out its mission, so the local real estate community decided to collaborate with the Post in its efforts. This approach not only broadens the post’s reach but also enhances the experiences of its members and the wider community it serves.
On August 8th, a remarkable demonstration of this collaborative spirit unfolded as several affinity groups came together to support Alamo Post 2 and the Julian Escobedo POW/MIA Scholarship Fund. The charity event, aptly named the "Charity Bash," showcased the power of
collective action in raising funds and awareness for vital causes.
Participating Affinity Groups and organizations
The event saw the active involvement of a diverse range of organizations, each bringing its unique strengths and networks to the table. The participating Affinity groups and supporting organizations included (alphabetically):
• Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA)
• Graduate Realtor Institute (GRI)
• Independent Real Estate Professionals (IREP)
• National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP)
• Veterans Association of Real Estate Professionals (VAREP)
• Women’s Council of Realtors (WCR) and the two real estate related businesses:
• Certainty Home Lending and •
Super Home Warranty
These groups, each with its own focus and expertise, exemplified the strength found in unity. Their collaboration was instrumental in creating a successful event that would not only benefit Alamo Post 2 but also honor the memory of those who have served and sacrificed for the nation.
Event Highlights
The Charity Bash featured a blend of enjoyable activities and fundraising opportunities. The evening began with a dinner, offering attendees a chance to connect and converse in a relaxed setting. Following the meal, guests were treated to live music from a band, adding an element of entertainment and celebration to the event. Key highlights of the evening were the drawings and mystery bags sales. These activities, brimming with excitement and anticipation, provided attendees with opportunities to win various prizes while contributing to a worthy cause. The energy and enthusiasm of the crowd were palpable, reflecting the community’s commitment to supporting Alamo Post 2 and the scholarship fund.
Impact and Appreciation
Thanks to the concerted efforts of all involved, the Charity Bash was a resounding success. Well over $4,000 was raised during the event, a testament to the generosity and dedication of the participating groups and attendees. This significant amount will go a long way in supporting Alamo Post 2’s mission and the Julian Escobedo POW/MIA Scholarship Fund, which honors the memory of those
who are missing in action or prisoners of war and provides educational support to their families.
Special thanks are due to each of the affinity groups for their hard work and commitment. AREAA, GRI, IREP, NAHREP, VAREP, and WCR all played crucial roles in organizing and executing the event. Their collective effort not only ensured the success of the Charity Bash but also demonstrated the power of collaboration in achieving shared goals.
Looking Forward
The success of the Charity Bash underscores the potential for collaborative efforts in advancing the mission of Alamo Post 2. By harnessing the strengths and resources of various affinity groups, the post can continue to expand its impact and support goals. As Alamo Post 2 looks to the future, the lessons learned from this event can serve as a model for future collaborations. The unity and shared commitment displayed by the participating organizations offer a promising foundation for later initiatives and events. the Charity Bash exemplifies how working together for a common cause can lead to meaningful outcomes. The collaboration between Alamo Post 2 and the REALTOR® Affinity groups not only raised significant funds but also highlighted the community's dedication to honoring and supporting those who have served the nation. Through continued partnerships and collective efforts, Alamo Post 2 will be well-positioned to uphold its mission to the community and continue making a positive impact in the lives of veterans and their families.
Angelica Erosa / President, San Antonio Women’s Council Network
Cristina Flores-Schnoke, Elite Properties, Bronson Ketchum, guest, and Sandra Padilla, Levi Rodgers Group
Judy Goldick, Regal Realty, Ashley Martinez , Beazer Homes, Jollyn Hilliard, LPT Realty and Rosemary Gomez, Old Republic Title
Bobby Elizondo, RE/MAX North-San Antonio and Christy Johnson Stewart Title.
Lynn Knapik, Lynn Knapik Real Estate and Beatrice Briseno, RE/MAX Unlimited
NARPM
Brenda Davila / SAMAC, NARPM Past President
Take A Peek At SAMAC’s Events Calendar. Make Plans & Register
This month, I’m taking the opportunity to highlight and share the September calendar of events for the San Antonio Metropolitan Area Chapter (SAMAC) of NARPM. The calendar is filled with educational, organization, networking and community service opportunities. If you’re not a current member or have been on the fence about joining us, this would be the perfect time to take a peek at the events, make plans and register to take advantage of what we have to offer.
For September, our calendar has seven events to choose from. Quick disclosure, not all the events are hosted by SAMAC, yet are on our calendar as they are important and vital to our organization and sharing the information is key. Let’s
start with September the 6th, SAMAC will hold their executive meeting. The meeting is for the executive board to get together and have a meeting of the minds. Discussions are about current issues, future social, learning, community service events and keeping the momentum going. The very next day, Saturday, September the 7th, we’ll be holding a community service event with our Local Charity of Choice for 2024, River Aid San Antonio (RASA). RASA is a non-profit organization dedicated to the stewardship of the San Antonio River Basin and are excited to be a part of their clean- up efforts. This will be on that Saturday from 8am- 11am. On September 10th, The Neighborhood and Housing Services Department and
Fair Housing Council of Greater South Texas will hold an informational session, “Renters rights and responsibilities”, in which they will discuss essential rights, responsibilities, and resources for renters in San Antonio to include local, state, and federal fair housing policies and laws with a Q&A.
If you can’t make those dates, no worries, there are more opportunities... On September 11th, we’ll be at our Chapter meeting at Old San Francisco Steakhouse, learning from our Speaker, Jordan Coleman with Live Oak Bank discussing, “How to Successfully Navigate Ownership or Management of your business (first meeting is on us & must register as a guest). Then on September 16th-18th the long-awaited Texas Style NARPM Conference will take place in Austin. It’s three educational fun filled days of learning, networking, workshops, Texas legislative and compliance updates and so much more in the company of fellow NARPM members from around the Texas State. And we’re close to the
end, on September 19th, we’ll be attending SABOR’s Leasing and Property Management Committe meeting and lastly, on September 23rd-25th, SABOR will hold its educational certification class, TRPM – Texas Residential Property Manager. Disclosure- This certification is not affiliated with or endorsed by the National Association of REALTORS®. Ok, I laid it out and as you can see, this month is filled with something for everyone. Take a peek, plan and register for one or all of the events. Visit our website: https://sanarpm.org/ and like our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ NARPMSanAntonio
Craig Lannom, Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper, REALTORS and Connie Hentosh
Denise Martinez, Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper and Pattie Holladay, Texas Real Estate Group
Christy Johnson, Stewart Title, Andrew Ibarra, VIP Mortgage and Adriana Garza, United Realty Group
Pattie Holladay, Texas Real Estate Group, Kellie Daniels and Denise Martinez, both with Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper REALTORS.
Renae Pretty, Hill Country Classic Realty, Susan Bylicki, Epique Realty, Amelia McFarlane, Hardie & Associates and Alishia Ritchey, Mitchell Realty
Viara Sherman, Keller Williams Heritage
Monique Slater, Keller Williams Heritage and Maudel Hardie, Hardie & Associates
Emily Piperato, Mortgage Pro. with Maurice (Moe) Huntley, Watters International Realty and Ojas Tasker, Tasker Properties.
AREAA
Sophear Wilson / 2024 President of AREAA San Antonio
Promoting Sustainable Homeownership In Our Community
As the current President of the San Antonio Chapter of the Asian Real Estate Association of America (AREAA), I am deeply honored to share our ongoing efforts and the impact we strive in promoting sustainable homeownership within the Asian American, Native Hawaii and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities. AREAA is not just a nonprofit professional trade organization; it is a movement dedicated to ensuring that the dream of homeownership is within reach for everyone, regardless of background or circumstances.
AREAA’s mission is to be a powerful and unified voice for homeowners and real estate professionals serving the AANHPI market. Homeownership is more than just acquiring property; it is about creating stability, building wealth, and establishing community. However, this path often comes with challenges, particular -
ly for minority groups. AREAA is committed to dismantling these barriers by advocating for policies and practices that promote equity, inclusion, and access to sustainable homeownership.
On a local level, particularly within our San Antonio chapter, we are engaged with the community. Alongside our dedicated board members, we collaborate with various like-minded organizations such as the Asian American Alliance, Women’s Council of Realtors (WCR), and the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP). These partnerships are action-driven collaborations that allow us to pool resources, share expertise, and amplify our impact.
Each month, we host a variety of events designed to educate, empower, and engage. These range from instrumental classes that allow individuals with the skills needed to navigate the com -
plex real estate market. Additionally, we dedicate our time to volunteering with nonprofit organizations, extending our reach and reinforcing our commitment to social responsibility.
National Influence: Advocating for Change and Driving Innovation
Each year on a national scale, we host two major events that are pivotal to our mission. The first, the Diversity and Fair Housing Summit in Washington, D.C., serves as a critical platform for fostering dialogue, collaboration, and advocacy on issues affecting the minority communities. This event brings together leaders, policymakers, and industry professionals to discuss the challenges and opportunities in the housing market and to advocate for policies that support sustainable homeownership for AANHPI communities.
The second major event is the AREAA National Convention, a cornerstone gathering that attracts thousands of attendees from across the country. This three-day event offers invaluable insights into the ever-evolving real estate industry. Attendees benefit from a dynamic lineup of speakers, sessions on the latest market
trends, and strategies to help grow their businesses. The convention also provides a unique opportunity to forge lasting connections with peers, industry leaders, and potential partners.
Diversity and Inclusion
With over 19,000 members and 45 chapters across the United States and Canada, AREAA represents a diverse and growing community. Our membership is a vibrant tapestry that encompasses 51 ethnicities and speaks 26 languages. This diversity is one of our greatest strengths, allowing us to draw on a wide range of perspectives, experiences, and insights to better serve our communities.
I want to express my deepest gratitude to my local board members, who have consistently come together to work alongside me this year. Their dedication, passion, and hard work are the driving forces behind our successes. In conclusion, AREAA’s mission is not just about promoting homeownership; it is about creating a fair and inclusive housing market where everyone could achieve the American Dream. We believe that by working together, we can make this dream accessible to all, leaving a legacy of equity and opportunity.
NEWSNOTES & ANNOUNCEMENTS
The Best Smash Burger Recipe
2 Brioche Buns
Soft butter for the buns
One pound of ground beef. (If you grind yourself, use beef chuck or buy 80/20 from the store.)
Four thick slices(#3)of Deli American Cheese
1/2 of a sweet yellow onion sliced very thin
Clarified Butter
1/2 of an avocado from Mexico
Instructions:
Make The Smash Burger Sauce:
Sea Salt and Course Pepper
Smash Burger Sauce:
3/4 cup of mayonnaise. (I prefer Duke's)
1/4 cup of catsup.
1 tablespoon yellow mustard
3 tablespoons diced Butter Pickles.
One teaspoon Sriracha
One teaspoon garlic minced 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
1. Mix all ingredients and store in a jar in the refrigerator.
For The Smash Burger:
1. Butter each side of your buns and toast them on your grill until golden brown.
2. Next, heat the butter on the grill, add the onions, and caramelize until golden brown.
3. Squirt the clarified butter on the grill. While heating, portion and smash four 3-ounce patties. Season the patties with salt and pepper.
4. Do not move the patties until they are golden brown on one side. Then, flip and cover each with a slice of cheese. Cook for 2 minutes until the cheese is melting. Move one patty on top of the other for 30 seconds.
Build Your Smash Burger:
1. Add your sauce to the bottom bun, top with butter lettuce leaves, a salted red ripe tomato slice, cheeseburger patties, caramelized onions, pickles, and the top bun with smashed avocado. Taste the Magic!!!
Karen Evans! Curator, Connector, Cook Karenevans@email.com 210-529-2931
Brearley Joins Texas Homes
Jennifer Brearley joins Texas Homes as a marketing coordinator with 12 years of real estate experience. You can find her hosting realtor events at all Texas Homes communities in Bulverde, Castroville, La Vernia, or Floresville. Jennifer enjoys spending time with her family and golden retrievers. Follow Jen on Instagram @txhomessa and @jentxhome.
Thomason Joins EXIT Premier Realty
Alex Thomason has lived and worked in San Antonio since getting out of the Army in 2013. He has watched it grow tremendously in that time, with seemingly no signs of slowing down. He has been
licensed since 2016 and enjoy helping others with every aspect of real estate. He firmly believes in taking care of his client's best interests, full-disclosure, and open communication. Whether a first-time home buyer, selling your third home, or investing in multiple properties a year, he is here to help you with every step of the process. He is a member of multiple local real estate investment groups. If you see him at any meetings, please say hello! He can be reached at EXIT Premier Realty, 210-394-1376.
Haralson Joins United Realty Group
Carlos Haralson is a military veteran with 8 years as a licensed realtor, coupled with a BS and MS in Human Resources. Carlos offers a comprehensive and client-focused approach to real estate. He specializes in residential, multifamily, and investment properties, providing tailored services to military families, investors, firsttime buyers, sellers, and renters. Carlos' broad expertise ensures that he meets a wide range of client needs effectively. What differentiates Carlos is his
military background, commitment to personalized service, and profound knowledge of local market dynamics. His military experience fosters discipline, leadership, and a robust work ethic, which he applies to every real estate transaction. Carlos provides personalized marketing strategies, free CMAs, and extensive local market knowledge to ensure clients' success.
If you're looking to buy, sell, or invest in real estate, Carlos Haralson is there to provide the support and guidance you need. He can be reached at 210.317.3762 or email: txluxuryrealtor@gmail.com
Century 21 Scott Myers, Realtors Turns 45!
On July 16th, the office of Century 21 Scott Myers, Realtors celebrated their 45th year in business.
The celebration was held in the cantina at Pam's Patio Kitchen which is next door to Century 21 Scott Myers, Realtors.
Scott made a short talk with emphasis on the idea that it is "our company" that we are celebrating meaning that all of the agents, and fantastic support staff have had a hand in the success of the company.
HARALSON
Karen Evans / Contributing Writer
The Finer Things In Life HAPPY CRITIC
Welcome to the Happy Critic column, created for those who love extraordinary experiences with food, drink, art, and the finer things in life. I use uplifting words to draw attention to remarkable people and places! Here are some exquisite experiences and things I encountered this summer, and I hope you will consider becoming their loyal customer for life!
PASSIONATE ABOUT PIZZA
Let me share my excitement about the unique pizza menu and their Clams Casino Pizza at Barbaro in the Monte Vista neighborhood! This pizza, with its thin as-a-cracker crust, perfectly cooked and topped with a delicious white wine sauce, crispy bacon, generous clams, and pecorino Romano, is a culinary marvel. The best damn pizza in town! If you're a pizza lover who appreciates remarkable food creations, this pizza dish is a must-try! It's a truly exquisite and memorable pizza that I highly recommend. I've even added Barbaro to my 'My Favorite Places to Be!' list. Great Happy Hour too!
OBJETS D’ART
My recent tour of Artist Anthony Gonzalez's Texas Hill Country studio was a genuinely inspiring experience. His wonderful oil paintings of the feminine figure, each a stunning portrayal of grace and elegance, left a lasting impression on me. Anthony, who has been painting professionally in San Antonio for 40 years, has a masterful use of color and texture that truly captures the essence of the feminine form. His artistry is captivating, and I was deeply moved by the depth and emotion in each of his paintings. He conveys an emotional experience for the viewer by incorporating form, color, and costume into his works of the female figure.
I highly recommend you join us for his “Expressions & Attitudes” show on Tuesday, September 17th, at Frederick's Restaurant in Alamo Heights from 5 pm-7 pm.
Bohanan's! I LOVE THIS BAR! Since 2002, it has been the pinnacle of downtown San Antonio, offering the best music, drinks, and bar food. It's the best UPSCALE place to be for a fantastic night out! Manager David England is an absolute gem. His dedication to providing top-notch service, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere with comfortable seating, a dark wood club-like atmosphere, and ensuring every guest feels appreciated and well taken care of is truly commendable. Johnny P. and The Wiseguys perform velvety vocals and trumpet most Fridays and Saturdays. The bar menu serves the best Pecan Crusted Brie, Grilled Lump Crab Cakes, and French Onion soup. It is simply outstanding and an absolute treat!! My heaven!
NATURAL CREATIONS WITH LOVE
Redbirdway Farm & Creations is an extraordinary family farm that produces natural skin products and beautiful garden pieces and is dedicated to crafting a natural and holistic lifestyle. Like most herbal enthusiasts, Tiffany and Dewey Maneewat have an incredible and inspiring story.
"For me, it all began with my family's health struggles: my son's severe eczema, my husband's psoriasis, and my dad's sensitive skin due to a heart condition. This ignited a passion for crafting natural solutions, which we shared with our loved ones. Their encouragement propelled us forward, and now, three years later, we find ourselves living our dream, spreading love for animals and natural living across communities. Knowing that our recipes are making a difference fills us with joy beyond measure, affirming the purpose of our journey. " Their body oil, skin, and hair care products are fantastic and all-natural. Their products are unique. You can alleviate headaches, dry scalp, and skin problems without harsh chemicals. I have used many of their oils with wonderful results: Love, Light, Earth, Mermaid, Full Moon, and Wild Man, to name a few. My skin is radiant, and my hair is thick with a healthy scalp. Tiffany and Dewey are at many vendor markets and pop-ups in San Antonio and surrounding areas. I promise you will love this fantastic oil.
One last mention: Dewey opened Dewey's Small Town Bike Repair in the Devine, Natalia, and Lytle areas. He always offers on-thespot bike washes and tune-ups. Let him get your bike rolling!
Dewey and Tiffany Maneewet are an inspiring husband and wife team with great love for each other, their family and their community. I highly recommend checking out their fabulous business at local market places and pop-ups. Remember the bicycles!
The GRUMPY CRITIC says, “Floating Island should be Floating.”
