RE Newsline February - 2023

RE RE N N EWSLIN EWSLIN E E

Page 2: No Doubt – The English Language Is Pretty Quirky!

Page 7: Reservations Only

Page 11: Six Degrees of San Antonio

Page 12: It's A Beautiful Day For Dessert!

Page 13: Meet Me At The Garden

Page 15: Let’s Get Learning

Page 16: Why should you consider becoming a member of Women’s Council of Realtors

Page 18: The Jewel in Historic King William

No Doubt – The English Language Is Pretty Quirky!

If you grew up in an English speaking family then you probably don’t think much about how strange our language must sound to those from non-English speaking nations. Although considered to be the most widely spoken language on the globe and used by about one out of every seven people around the world, English can certainly be unusual to say the least. As it is now official that during the last millennium English has taken over from French as the lingua franca (the second language most used world-wide) it has thus become important for so many to learn our language.

Most rules in use usually have exceptions and there were some we learned as children like:

"I before E except after C, or when sounded as 'a' as in 'neighbor' and 'weigh.'”

Merriam-Webster, however, later added to that rule: “Unless the 'c' is part of a 'sh' sound as in 'glacier' Or it appears in comparatives and superlatives like 'fancier' And also except when the vowels are sounded as 'e' as in 'seize' Or 'i' as in 'height' Or also in 'ing' inflections ending in '-e' as in 'cueing' Or in compound words as in 'albeit' Or occasionally in technical words with strong etymological links to their parent languages as in 'cuneiform' Or in other numerous and random exceptions such as 'science', 'forfeit', and 'weird.'" Oh well, so much for that rule.

And then many words have the same meaning but can vary depending upon where one lives in the United States. For example, at lunch do you guys or y’all have a hero, a hoagie, a po’boy or a sub, and with it do you drink a soda, a pop, a coke, or a soft drink? Or perhaps one would prefer to have some baby lobster, crawfish, crayfish or crawdad. Does one travel on the highway or on the freeway and what does one do when one comes to a traffic circle, rotary or roundabout? Does one wear sneakers, gym shoes or tennis shoes and does

one prefer that their cake have frosting or icing?

Some words in the English language may have entertainment value especially when they bring a picture to mind like imagining leaping lizards and lame ducks. Most in the US have heard of the ‘nyms’ like antonyms, synonyms and homonyms, but how about the contronyms which according to Merriam-Webster are words that have two meanings that contradict one another. When, for example, you think of the word sanction do you mean that you sanction or agree with what someone wants to do or is

and caretaker actually mean the same thing as do what’s going on and what’s coming off; fat chance and slim chance and a good licking and a bad licking. Add to that some odd thoughts derived from several print and online sources over the years that really show just how crazy our language has become. We frequently may look for a synonym for various words in the dictionary or the Thesaurus yet there is no synonym for either synonym or thesaurus.

is as different as night and day.” Is that because day breaks but never falls while night falls but never breaks? Why do we pack suits in a garment bag but put garments in a suitcase and how come Privates eat in the general mess but Generals eat in the private club?

it that you have a sanction against what they want to do? Think of dust – do you dust to remove dust or do you lightly dust to add something like sugar over a cake and if you say something is transparent do you mean invisible or obvious? If you talk about a variety do you mean an assortment of many things or just a certain variety of one thing? And then there is seed when you want to remove the seeds from peppers or add seeds to the soil to start plants? And finally when you clip do you clip things together or do you clip something out?

And on the other side of the coin the words caregiver

Just some random thoughts: that we park in the driveway but drive on the parkway; and although we don’t need to heat hot water, we usually have a hot water heater; they may be called apartments but they are together and buildings are already built. How could you “watch your head” as many signs caution or “bite your teeth” as some humorously suggest when you have said some outrageous thing. And although someone may say, “I lucked out” after something good has happened, the phrase actually suggests they are just out of luck; why is it that we say we go “back and forth” when we obviously cannot go back without first going forth?

If someone says “ I’m a little discombobulated today” does that mean they are usually combobulated or if they seem disheveled today are they usually sheveled? We have learned that the proper sequence is from good to better to best so how, with only two feet, can we put our best foot forward? Why is that if we send something by car it’s called a shipment yet if we send it by ship it is cargo? Why do we call people who ride motorcycles bikers but people who ride bikes are called cyclists? I am sure you’ve heard the expression “it

Today, with the computer age and all the new techie things we see new words being added to the dictionary, some of which amaze me. A few of these words come directly from TV shows like The Sopranos’ "Fuhgeddaboudit" - forget about it or from music like “YOLO,” you only live once which one would use when one is about to do something rash. Some other new entries include “jerkface,” an irritating, despicable, or contemptible person; “schmoozefests,” an event or meeting, especially one at which people chat in an ingratiating or insincere way and "worstest," worst in emphatic use. We may be going downhill!

And finally when we look at our language we see a whole lot of alliteration, that is sequential syllables that start with the same sound, especially in children’s things like Wee Willie Winkie, Peter Peter Pumpkin Eater and Red Riding Hood but also in tongue twisters like Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers or she sells seashells by the seashore. There are also many examples in everyday expressions we might find useful such as a shell shocked sad sack going from the frying pan into the fire or being found between the devil and the deep blue sea.

Although these examples represent a small sampling of English quirkiness it should point out the difficulties nonEnglish speakers encounter when trying to learn the language as well as those of us for whom the language is native face when trying to use proper grammar. But for now I will no longer belabor the points, will stop beating around the bush, will no longer dilly dally or shilly shally and will take this time to bid you fond adieu!

Pat Farrell / Senior Contributing Writer

2023 Commercial Summit

You're invited to join STCAR on Friday, February 24 for the annual Commercial Summit. It's happening at Embassy Suites by Hilton San Antonio Landmark from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tickets are $70 (plus fees) for members and $75 (plus fees) for non-members.

Speakers at the event include:

• Mike Barnett - Executive Vice President of Texas REALTORS®

• Tray Bates - Vice President of Governmental Affairs for Texas REALTORS®

• Mike Culbertson - Interim CEO at Corpus Christi Regional

Economic Development Corporation

• Will Curtis - Commercial Managing Director of Phyllis Browning Company

• Carlo Molano - Managing Principal, Brokerage Services of FORUM Commercial Real Estate

• Amber Gilbert - Senior Vice President, Business Development of greater: SATX

Log in to the member portal to register for the event. You can also find more information on any of our social media sites such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube.

https://realestatenewsline.com/sign-up/

RE Newsline Happy Hour

Mari Morua-Gonzales, Estancia DelNorte, Madge Rashell, Guild Mortgage, J. Antonio Lopez, MD, and Teresa Valenzuela, Estancia DelNorte

Elsa Cantu, Mitchell Realty, Rebecca Femat Velasco, guest, and Paula Christoph, Mitchell Realty

Orlando Garza, The Salvation Army, and Robert Guerra, Barton Company Carpets

Hank Arriazola, MotoHank Travel Group and Diane Mozzone, Camins Real

Karen Evans, RE Newsline with Ginger Evans

John Speegle, SKDA, and Gabriela Vargas, ASP Cares

Mari Mitchell with Mitchell Realty

Gwen Derry, Old Republic Title, Paula Grisby, TAPFCU, Madge Rashell, Guild Mortgage, and Sharon Miller, United Texas

Cindy Taylor, CT Group and Cindy Mundy, Wakefield Realtors

Cathey Meyer, RE Newsline and Tony Cantu guest

Century 21 Scott Myers Realtors Annual Holiday Party at La Fogata

THE WAY I SEE IT

Cathey Meyer / Contributing Writer

Reservations Only

This really happened recently: I arrived at a new hot-spot restaurant for lunch with a good friend. We both had busy days, so we planned an 11 AM meeting to beat the crowd. I approached the hostess stand to request a table for two and her first words were “Do you have a reservation?” Not “Welcome to Blank Restaurant” or “Thank you for visiting us today” but “Do you have a reservation?” Since our planning is always last minute, we usually pick a spot close to our location that day and never make reservations. We always get a table and generally, the establishments have plenty of room for the no reservationers of choice.

For the record, the restaurant was empty, the weather was horrible, and I was hungry. Normally, I would be offended and just leave, but time was short and the gauntlet was dropped. We were at a no-reservation stand off at the hostess stand. I inquired if it was possible to be seated without a reservation. I was told reservations were required. I asked if the restaurant was sold out for this Monday’s lunch. She

said she did not know. She went back to studying her too long acrylic nails, appearing to have found her calling in life. In the meantime, I stepped outside for my own calling. I called the restaurant to make a reservation for 11:15.

My friend arrived and we entered to my déjà vu moment.“Two for lunch please.” “Do you have a reservation?”

“Why yes, we do for 11:15.” “You are early but let me see if I can seat you.” She made no recognition that I had just been in front of her not five minutes before. Still no warm welcome to the establishment. In our time there, the place never came close to full. The meal was good, but not worth the reservation battle. I just assumed this was a snooty attempt at exclusiveness and decided the restaurant did not need my future business. The demand for reservations takes the fun out of spontaneous dining.

Little did I understand, I was on the cutting edge of modern day drinking and dining access. Yes, my friends, it happened again. Roof top bars are now the in destination for the see and be seen crowd in downtown. We enjoy the

views, not so much who sees us, and definitely not the double digits mark ups of our favorite beverages. We justify the expense as value for the view. Our arrival at the newest high rise hotel, condominium, roof top was most entertaining. No one stopped us from wandering through the hotel lobby and entering the elevator for the 20+ floor elevator ride, but the hostess mafia was at the ready.

To say we were warmly greeted by three GenXer’s in tiny dresses, stiletto heels, eyelashes with wing spans and hair colors from Narnia would be an understatement. No welcome to Blank Bar, no how can we help you, just a cold,“Do you have a reservation?” Again, we arrived right at 5 PM to beat the night crowd; we were the first people there not employed by the establishment, and we were ready to spend money. “Sorry, we have no available space at this time” was shared with us. Maybe my sensible heels gave them the wrong vibe, but they were not going to get the best of this out-of-profile customer.

Once again, I smiled and backed away. My partner was ready to descend and give up. I simply smiled and stepped toward the elevator bench. This time, I played tech-savvy and used the Open Table app to acquire my reservation. According to Open Table, 5 PM was wide open and I made my reservation and immediately returned to the hostess hostage stand for entry to the

reservation only club. The wince on their eyelashes was priceless as they checked their log and found my name.

“You can only have the table for one hour” she said as if it was a threat to my well-being. No need to confront her threatening stilettos as I guessed I could stay as long as my credit card cleared. In our time there on a random Tuesday, the place did not fill up. Big surprise. Yes, my friends, be patient, as it happened again. The snootiest of downtown hot spot for roof top drinking and dining has a secret elevator entrance separate from the snooty hotel for which it is in partnership. We knew about it because we were invited to the preopening festivities. The hidden elevator is an interesting touch just outside the main entrance to the hotel. The opening party was great fun, drinks were excellent and the following week, we returned with friends to show it off. As we knowingly swung into the covert hallway for the elevator ride up, the hostess mafia was once again in place. This time, though, they were most polite. “Welcome. Do you have a reservation?” We did not.“No problem. Let me see what is available.” She got on her tech-set-head-set and mumbled some code words that magically opened the elevator door to take us up. “Next time”, she called,” reservations would be appreciated. Enjoy your time upstairs.” Some progress—at least we received appreciation for our non-reservationed outing.

JB Goodwin Holiday Extravaganza

Phyllis LaLonde and Claire Voncent both with JB Goodwin

Sue Baillio and Jim Payne both with JB Goodwin

Alan Yancelson and Diane Strauch both with JB Goodwin

Tawnya Thompson (guest) and Renee Bachman and JB Goodwin

Debbie Keipp, Erin Cestero, and Laz Walck all with JB Goodwin

Blain Johnson and Chris Via both with JB Goodwin

JB Goodwin Agents

Joraine Miller and Lisa McCorquodale-Robalin both with JB Goodwin

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

Renae Poss with JB Goodwin

Miriam Frey, JB Goodwin and Suzette Keller Old Republic Title

Independence Title "Wrappy" Hour

Susan Taylor, Independence Title and Debbie Snelling Keller Williams Heritage.

Ellen Hagan, Redbird Reality, April Cooke and Will Griffin both with Independence Title.

April Molina (guest), and Cookie Gehring, Keller Williams Heritage.

Leslie Hayes, Independence Title and Alisa Wasson, Laughy Hilger Group Real Estate.

Dana Taylor and Valerie Wilshire both with Independence Title.

Celeste Eggest, Haven for Hope and Cynthia McGee, Magnolia Realty

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

Charley Wasson and Alisa Wasson both with Laughy Hilger Group Real Estate.

Pam Flather and Bernadette Almendarez, Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper Realtors, and Chesney Woods with Independence Title.

Bernadette Almendarez, Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper Realtors, Terri Saari, Kristalli Real Estate, and Melisa Fitchett, Coldwell Banker D’ann Harper Realtors.

Will Griffin, Independence Title, Scott Southwell, Exp Realty, Corie Dilly, Home Team of America, and Kristyna Umbaugh, Arabella Realty.

GUEST COLUMN

Aly Crawford / Contributing Writer

Six Degrees of San Antonio

Last week my best friend and I scheduled a fun outing at a local crafting venue. When we arrived we realized that the rest of the venue had been booked by a group. As it turns out, the other ladies were having a neighborly get-together. They live two streets over from me.

At the beginning of our relationship, when my husband and I first met, we learned that his dentist was my neighbor, and the dentist’s children were my husband’s neighbors.

I’ve lived in San Antonio for most of my life, and have only lived as far away as New Braunfels. But even though the occurrences have almost become monotonous, I’m continually confounded by just how often neighborly connection coincidences happen.

Growing up my family called this Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon. For years I truly thought my dad had made that up, but it turns out that Six Degrees of Kevin Bacon, or Bacon's Law which is how I now refer to it, is a parlor game where players challenge each other to choose an actor at random and then connect them to another actor via movies or relationships, repeating this process to try to find the shortest path between the two. Why Kevin Bacon? Play a few rounds with your friends and you’ll soon see that the shortest path tends to include one particular actor: Kevin Bacon. While the iconic American actor may not make it into every connection train, you do start to realize the tie he has to Hollywood’s star scene. However Mr. Bacon is not the only human subject to Bacon’s Law. The game's name is actually a reference to "six degrees of

separation." A theory that states that any two people on Earth are six or fewer relational links apart. And it’s based on science. A whole field of study: network theory, aims to understand these societal relations and connections. One of the early writers, Frigyes Karinthy, who popularized this theory wrote” Due to technological advances in communications and travel, friendship networks could grow larger and span greater distances.” In particular, Karinthy believed that the modern world was 'shrinking' due to this everincreasing connectedness of human beings. He posited that despite great physical distances between the globe's individuals, the growing density of human networks made the actual social distance far smaller. In fact, over 100 years after Karinthy proposed his shrinking world theory, we are still proving its truth. Our world has become ever connected. The sheer number of possibilities available to us modern folks through technology and travel have allowed us to grow our networks in ways that could not have been imagined before. Even the COVID-19 pandemic couldn’t sway our drive for connection.

San Antonio’s population has risen to over 1.45 million people in recent years, growing by almost half a million since I was born here in the early 90s. I struggle to wrap my head around the individual lives and moments happening around me in my city every single day. But as San Antonio, its suburbs, and neighboring cities continue to grow I find comfort in Bacon’s Law.

Each of the unique factors that embody the people of San Antonio strengthens our connectivity. Neighborhoods where people get together for a potluck (or craft night), Friday night football games at the local stadium where families sit together and bond over shared struggles and victories, local companies that have built networks of employees are all connecting us to each other and to our neighbors. Each new connection formed, each new friendship, marriage, move and new job adds a new link to our chain and brings us together, even if not by physical distance. Our city thrives in connection. Our shared experiences and stories make what could be a hodgepodge of different and isolated individuals a vibrant and interwoven quilt.

HAPPY CRITIC

It's A Beautiful Day For Dessert!

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 concocted this fun, quick menu of the tastiest and most memorable desserts I visited throughout last year by myself and with friends and family. Please pop in these establishments with enthusiasm and let them know the Happy Critic sent you! Then let me know what you think!

The Creme Brulee at Azuca Nuevo Latino is fantastic. Chef Rene prepares it like no other, and I love it! The delicious creme is spread thinly on a platter, fresh fruit scattered and bruleed-pure heaven. I wanted to lick the plate! 709 S. Alamo 210-225-5500 azuca.net

Liberty Bar serves the most exquisite Coconut Custard in the world. I won't prepare it myself because it is that good, and there is no need for anyone else to make this dessert. Liberty's kitchen cooks it perfectly. The toasted coconut adds a divine texture. Ask your server to set the custard out, bring it to room temperature, and dig in!

1111 S. Alamo 210-227-1187 liberty-bar.com

Stop by The Jewel At 1102 for cocktails, wine, or coffee and enjoy and tour this 1850s

historic King William home turned bar, coffee shop, event center, and art gallery. Indulge in a memorable slice of carrot cake with surprises of roasted pecans, pineapple tidbits, and coconut tucked inside a perfect cake iced in buttercream frosting. On Sundays at The Jewel during brunch, you are greeted with gooey, delicious rumballs! Sit back and enjoy your dessert experience in a serene, artistic atmosphere. 1102 S. Alamo 210429-6376 Facebook The Jewel At 1102

Batallion is another historical gem in Southtown. There is nothing better than sitting upstairs in the perfectly restored old #7 Firehouse overlooking the Hemisfair Tower and sharing the phenomenal Tiramisu and Panacotta desserts. Both desserts are made authentically in the Italian way. In addition to his excellent desserts, Andrew Goodman serves the best bubbly in the most elegant flutes. Bravo! 604 S. Alamo 210-816-0088 batallionsa.com

Uptown Broadway! Tre Trattoria @ The San Antonio Museum of Art campus has the perfect location on the upper riverwalk with incredible pic -

turesque views. The ideal spot for date nights and sharing the Nutella X 3 dessert. It is delightful and delicious! So glad this gem of a place is in San Antonio! Thank you, Team Dady! 200 W. Jones Avenue #501 210-805-0333 tretrattoria.com

I saved the best for last! Hola! World Tapas, Beer & Wine Bar . Their Merengue with Roasted Pecans & Port is the ultimate dessert, and I refuse to share it with anyone! I am obsessed with this dessert. It is perfect every time! The Merengue Cookie is light and dreamy, with a delicate taste and texture that I love. Almost ash-like-that's how delicate it is. It melts in my mouth! The side of Port Wine adds elegance to this dessert experience. Thank you, Chef Rene Fernandez, of Azuca, for creating your fantastic new spot in Southtown and GM Antonio Guerrero for the wonderful experiences!

603 S. Alamo 210-236-5688 holatapas.net

San Antonio has a wealth of great restaurants serving luxurious desserts. These were some of my favorites. I hope you will enjoy them as much as I did! karen@renewsline.com

Karen Evans / Contributing Writer

Meet Me At The Garden

When it comes to San Antonio traditions, one of the biggest since 1949 is the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo. The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo is "a volunteer organization that emphasizes agriculture and education to develop the youth of Texas" and has grown to be one of the largest, most prestigious single events in the city of San Antonio, with approximately 1.3 million visitors entering the fairgrounds each year. The success of the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo is attributed to over 6,000 volunteers who give countless hours to the organization. With community, donor, sponsor and volunteer support, the organization has committed more than $243 million since inception. Through scholarships, grants, endowments, junior livestock auctions, calf scramble program and show premiums the event impacts over 19,000 youth in

Texas annually.

One of the ways I help support this tradition is volunteering on the Rodeo Wine Committee. Yes, there is a Rodeo Wine Committee! Even if you aren’t the biggest wine connoisseur, we are a fun group of hard-working volunteers. The Wine Committee hosts 3 fundraising events throughout the year that help support the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo Scholarship Fund...the International Wine Competition held each October, the Championship Wine Auction & Dinner held each November and the Champion Wine Garden presented by H-E-B held during the 18 days of the Rodeo. The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo as well as the Wine Committee believe that education is vital to the continued success of agriculture and of course viticulture.

The Wine Committee kicked off this 2023 Rodeo Season with our 13th annual International Wine Competition which had nearly 900 wines from around the world that were judged by wine industry professionals! That was followed by a SOLD-OUT Wine Auction Dinner. The wine auction dinner gives the attendees the opportunity to taste and learn about the award-winning wines with a sit-down dinner and an amazing Live Auction of spectacular packages that include, you guessed it- WINE!

Throughout the year, the Wine Committee also hosts several Uncork & Unwind events including wine pairing dinners and a Spring/Summer Fling tasting between May & July! My favorite event is the Wine Garden! This year, the H-E-B Wine Garden will be at a new location, BIGGER and BETTER! The H-E-B Wine Garden will also be hosting educational wine seminars focusing on winemaking and agricultural education each Saturday and Sunday during Rodeo, AND on Sunday's you can meet your friends for our great Mimosa Sunday Brunch! At the HE-B Wine Garden you can meet up before or after the Rodeo and enjoy wine by the taste, glass or bottle with your friends. Imagine stopping by and listening to some live music while watching the sunset, sipping on the perfect glass of red, white or bubbly- I recommend

ordering a meat & cheese tray from the Bistro to complete your experience! Have a big party attending? Reserve your own private party with us in the Wine Garden (email below)! Don’t miss out on this years’ tradition of the San Antonio Rodeo! Support the Rodeo Wine Committee and MEET ME AT THE GARDEN!

This is a great opportunity for involvement and giving back to our community whether by volunteering or through corporate sponsorships. All of our events are made possible by generous donors and sponsors. Every dollar sponsored is a dollar towards the enrichment of the youth of TEXAS. Whether it is big dollars or just one dollar, we encourage you to get involved. We can place your company or family logo on tents, tables and glasses. We would love to help you get in involved in The San Antonio Rodeo Wine Committee.

If you are interested in learning more about joining the Wine Committee or sponsorship opportunities, email us at wine@sarodeo.com.

Let's Wine & Rodeo San Antonio!

Stephanie Turbeville / Wine Committee Member

Helen Quintana and Kylee Self, both Capital Title

Doyle Benton, Becky Oliver, Jonathan Oliver and Randy Oliver

Rae Saldana and Art Saldana, both Loan Depot

John Mello, M.A. Celebrating a year (and many more) with JB Goodwin REALTORS® here in San Antonio!

NARPM

Brenda Davila / SAMAC, NARPM President

Let’s Get Learning

Wondering how the market for single residential home rentals is going? Or how many days to give on a notice to vacate? Have you wondered where property managers get their education or what is needed to earn a designation? Whether you are new to property management or have been doing it for a while, I highly suggest joining an organization that is willing to share information, that leads by example, is active in governmental affairs and helps the community.

There’s no need to think you are alone trying to figure out the ins and outs, especially in unprecedented times such as the ones we experienced during covid. It was great to know that NARPM was still in business, pushing forward, getting

us the vital information needed to keep our doors open.

By the time you read this article SAMAC would have had the first Chapter Meeting and Educational Event for 2023 (Jan. 18,’23). I’m both excited and nervous as we have had many great leaders and know I have some big shoes to fill. I’ll be glad to share how it went in the next publication.

If you’d like to join or show your support, reach out as we could use a few more volunteers. It doesn’t matter what time of year. We always have room for new and fun ideas and members. Do not be surprised if you get a call from me during the year inviting you to join in on the fun and activities. For more informa -

tion, check out our calendar of events for February:

Feb 15 SAMAC Executive Board Meeting-Virtual

Feb 16 SABOR Leasing and Property Management Committee Meeting

Feb 17 Habitat For Humanity

Feb 21 Personnel Procedures

Essentials – Hiring and Firing (Parts 1 & 2)

*2023 will be filled with new educational classes, speakers, and more opportunities for charitable events. Do not miss your opportunity to serve, gain industry knowledge, and make new friendships. If you are interested in joining or would like to discuss; do not hesitate to reach out to us. For membership information or our calendar of events please visit: www.sanarpm.wildapricot.org

I would like to share with you some of the compelling reasons why I think you should consider joining us and be part of WCR (Women’s Council of Realtors). We are a large organization of women who all share the same goal of becoming strong and highly educated women leaders in the Real Estate industry, which we all love so much.

Reason #1 - Become one of our leaders. We are a leadership organization, the Council seeks to prepare its members for leadership positions at the local, state & national level, and actively encourages involvement in leadership opportunities. Our members move up quickly to become part of a board of directors. This is not confined to WCR only but SABOR (San Antonio Board of REALTORS) and any other organizations or City of San Antonio positions that you may want to pursue. As for my personal experience, I have been asked to be a director of other associations, HOA Boards and just last month I was asked to speak before Class of 2023

TRLP(Texas Realtor Leadership Program) of which I am an Alumni (Class of 2022) to share my leadership experience after graduating from the program. As part of our leadership growth we strongly encourage our members to apply for the TRLP program provided by Texas REALTORS which educates participants and shows them how to use their talents to make a difference in their professional and personal areas of interest.

Reason #2 - Grow your commissions. Do you know how many thousands of dollars can be made by NETWORKING through WCR? Networking is the best “sales tool” available to us. It only costs us time. Investing in ourselves is never a wrong idea. With WCR, we have a very valuable member benefit. It’s called the “Member Finder Feature” that includes your full profile, biography and online referral platform that extends nationwide. Just two months ago I received a referral from a WCR member in Dallas that resulted in

a $540,000 sale. That agent also received a referral fee from me. This is a Huge “member financial benefit.”

Reason #3 - Education. Education is the key to any successful business and we provide that for you by putting together powerful and enriched events with topics and speakers who educate us like our successful January lunch and learn event titled “Mastering our Finances” were we learned about tax strategies for REALTORS, proactive tax strategy, after year deductions, understanding your retirement options, cash value life insurance as a tax-free retirement plan, wills and estates & much more. Clients love working with educated agents because it builds trust in that they are working with an educated professional. It makes you stand out when they are deciding on an agent that can not only help them acquire a property, but get it at the best deal attainable.

Reason #4 - And finally. We have “Lots of Fun”. For myself, being a REALTOR and a Leader is one of my life’s dreams. I love my new career. And when you love working in Real Estate it really isn’t work-It is FUN! We work hard, but we also like to enjoy ourselves and that is why we have scheduled plenty of social gatherings, themed happy hours, expos, charity events and much more. In fact we are having an exciting function this month on February 7, 2023. Pooch ‘n’ Boots

Membership Mixer at Hops and Hounds 13838 Jones Maltsberger from 5pm-7pm. We invite you to come over and hang out with the Women’s Council of REALTORS for an evening of pets, beverages, and Western wear. Past, present and potential members and partners/affiliates are invited! There will be a contest for best-dressed pet and owner.

The Women's Council would like to connect with its members & future members to support each other’s goals and to encourage and guide each other to become successful business women and leaders. And yes, we do also have men as members!

Follow us on Facebook (Women’s Council of Realtors San Antonio) and Instagram to stay connected.

If you would like to join WCR and be part of this group of successful women call us at 210-279-4507

If you are a member and want to get more connected by being part of our planning teams call us at 210-487-0157

For anyone wanting to partner with WCR as a Business-Strategic Partner this year we would like to talk to you more about the opportunities for you so please call us at 720-838-0269

Let’s Connect and Bring Great Things to San Antonio!

Adriana Rodriguez / President San Antonio Women’s Council Network

Why should you consider becoming a member of Women’s Council of Realtors

1 Mar Justin Cook Places and Spaces Leasing

2-Mar Willy Peniche ERA Troy Realtors

Allen Stewart eXp Realty

Kim Melanson Fathom Realty

3-Mar Paul Salazar IH 10 Realty

Pat Farrell Real Estate Newsline

Cyndi Broschat Smart Moves Realty

4-Mar Teresa Garza Old Republic Title

5-Mar Dorothy Cofield RE/MAX Preferred

Maria Alvarado Old Republic Title

Johnnie Childs eXp Realty

Rebecca Williams eXp Realty

6-Mar Americo Canales Premier Realty Group

Matthew Resnick Kuper Sotheby's International

Scott Myers C-21 Scott Myers

7-Mar Cindy Hudler Hudler Properties

Janie Smith C-21 Scott Myers

Darlene Villarreal Realty Executives of S. A.

8-Mar Lisa Schmidt Phyllis Browning Company

9-Mar Carla Haley Keller Wlliams Heritage

10-Mar Mike Scalf Texas Properties & Associates

Diana Garcia GSAR, LLC

Gene Bargas JPAR San Antonio

Sherri Riedel Independence Title

11-Mar Hattie Lee Gleichenhaus Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper

Michael Gregoire Premier Realty Group

Debbie Margozewitz Phyllis Browning Company

Carlos Canales Uownit Realty

Dennis Flores Alamo Realty Experts

12-Mar James McCall McCall Properties

Jan Jarzabek Texas Premier Realty

Susan Widsten C-21 Scott Myers

Gil Reyes Key Realty

13-Mar Jo Ann Jordan BHGRE Homecity

Patricia Botello SABOR

14-Mar Regina Sanders Old Republic Title

Jennifer Boyd Century 21 The Hills Realty

Gabriela Gonzalez eXp Realty

Noemi Nandin SA Portfolio KW RE AH

Carla Bailey JPAR San Antonio

16-Mar Terri Hart SABOR

Denice Brown Independence Title

Sandy Valencia Independence Title

17-Mar Fran Driskell RE/MAX Assoc.

18-Mar Syl Downs Vortex Realty

19-Mar Patty Neie Home Team of America

Greg Jones Phyllis Browning Company

Karen Monistere Crown Realty, Inc.

Erin Cestero JB Goodwin Realtors

20-Ma David Wagner Keller Williams City View

21-Mar Michael Hollie Lifetime Real Estate Services

Tony Martinez RE/MAX North San Antonio

Mary Helen DiLiberto RE/MAX Preferred

22-Mar Samantha Roper BHGRE Homecity

Brad Radick Keller Williams Legacy

Sherry Longoria-Wagner Home Team of America

Sonny Manning RE/MAX Preferred

23-Mar Leah Helm Sterling Group Real Estate

Rosa Galdos Galdos Real Estate Network

Cliff Carey Carey Properties, Inc.

Daniel Potte JPAR San Antonio

Chad Keeth eXp Realty

24-Mar Felicia Hughley BHGRE Homecity

Crystal Lucas Real

Carlos Alonso Chris Burkhalter, REALTORS

25-Mar Ed Sansom Crossroads Realty

Nadine Berger eXp Realty

Sylvia Anguiano SABOR

26-Mar Felice Webb Home Team of America

Susan Davis Great Homes Real Estate

Renee Stout Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper

28-Mar Craig Steketee Texas Premier Realty

Daryl Denman Vortex Realty

Pat Sankey Keller Williams Legacy

Janet Wingrove Keller Williams Heritage

Janell Peterson White Label Realty

29-Mar Robert Hernandez SABOR

Brian Mylar Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper

Robin Rowe Keller Williams Heritage

30-Mar Christina Nardi JPAR San Antonio

Sandy Hancock Reliance Residential Realty Bulverde

Roland Flores Realty San Antonio

31-Mar Dudley Hays Kuper Sotheby's International

Sonya Lerma Keller Williams City View

Sonja LeJeune Vintage Key Realty

Aspasia Erian Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper

Nick Brumgard Global Realty Group

Tonya Weisinger Century 21 The Hills Realty

GUEST COLUMN

Karen Evans / Contributing Writer

The Jewel in Historic King William

The Jewel is a special place in the heart of Southtown, bringing the community together outside on the beautiful front lawn and the back veranda. It is not a place; it's an experience. The Jewel was built by a young German couple settling here in the 1850s and was restored in 1974 by the current owners, Jesse and Bill. The Jewel is historical and modern and is the perfect place to chill and enjoy cocktails, coffee or tea, music, and some pizza or pastries. The Jewel is a Chic Bar, a Hip Coffee Shop, a Fine Art Gallery, and a beau-

tiful Event Center. Every piece of the art and decor inside and outside was thoughtfully hand-picked to create a beautiful retreat for their guests.

Located in the heart of Southtown, the Historical Jewel is a full bar with specialty cocktails created by our consummate Bartender, Charlie, a delicious wine list, and a good beer selection, including beers from around our city! Even better are the extraordinary things they have created for their guests to enjoy.

Cocktail of the Week, 1/2 priced bot-

tles of Wine on Wine Wednesdays, their famous Old Fashioneds, and a Thursday evening Piano Bar with superb ambiance. This bar is vibrant and one of a kind., a romantic place for a first date or a gathering spot for you and your friends and family!

Alongside their chic bar is the coffee shop with an excellent selection of hot and cold coffees made to your desire. You can also order tea and different flavors of homemade Italian Sodas! There is a selection of pastries, cookies, and desserts; the carrot cake and rum balls are scrumptious! The weather is beautiful, and the sunshine is a vitamin D bonus! Folks are relaxing, reading, studying, working, and chilling inside and outside. The Jewel is a luxurious Garden of Eden tucked in

I think the Art Gallery is phenomenal, the finest gallery in the area. El Duran is the Artist in residence, and his spectacular "Jewels" are hung perfectly on each wall. The Artist's work is a mixture of beautiful, bold, brilliant, colorful, astonishing, abstract, and complex relationships. Find out for yourself and visit this stunning exhibition. You can casually stroll through the rooms with drinks and your camera in hand. Duran's pieces are for sale, and the Artist is frequently on the premises. It is special to meet and talk with him, a true Maestro. The sizeable romantic painting in the bar,

"The Sheik," a portrait of Rudolph Valentino, has a hidden "jewel" the Artist snuck into the painting if you can find it. It is fun to look for it! Valentine's day is approaching, and many true romantics have proposed marriage in front of Valentino, The Latin Lover!!!

Think seriously about hosting an event at The Jewel. They can create business meetings, birthday parties, unique mixers, weddings and showers, anniversary celebrations, and much more.

There is always a special spot for you. Their mission is to give you an experience unlike any other!

Please stop by or call to make some memories!

1102 S. Alamo / 210-429-6376

SABOR At The Tobin Center

Mike Myers , Stewart title with wife Candi Myers

Annette Slater, Landlord Property Management, Gwen Derry, Old Republic Title

Jan Hicinbothom, RE/MAX Associates, Marty Hutchison, Property Management Services with wife Linda Hutchison

Bob Leonard, RE/MAX Associates and Karen Hale, Keller Williams Legacy

Beatrice Briseno, RE/MAX Unlimited

Shelly Kessler with husband Travis , CEO Texas Realtors and Mary Ann Jeffers, Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper Realtors

Pat Farrell, Pat Farrell Realtor, Lifetime Distinguished Service Award Recipient

Mari Mitchell , Mitchell Realty and Ojas Task, Tasker Properties

Craig Owen, Keller Williams Heritage, Paula Grigsby, TAP FCU with husband Bob Grigsby

Bill Noble with wife Michelle Noble, Certainty Mortgage

Mari Mitchell, Mitchell Realty with Racheal Bruno and Sara Gerrish, both EX/MAX Unlimited