SA Monthly Magazine Jan 2019

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333 W. Olmos Dr. #117 San Antonio, TX 78212

CEO & PUBLISHER DM RODRIGUEZ samonthly@gmail.com

Direct Line: 210-215-3403 _________________ Creative Editor & Lead Photographer Waldinel (Wally) Lafaiete Business Editor Steven James Sr. Editor JR Fisher Publicity Editors Crystal Henry Emily Reynolds Contributing Editor Rudy Arispe Contributing Writers John Robert Mack Crystal Sepulveda Skin Care Editor Crystal Holmes Fashion Editor Lari Nelson

Travel/Home Editors Jeanne Albrecht Laura Curtis Fitness/Nutrition Editors Skie Molinar Hope Cowgill Pedraza Sherri Braxton Fashion Stylist Editor Jules Aldaz Guerra Social Scene Editors Sherie L. Johnson Sandra Shreve Art Editor Adriana Cisneros Health & Dental Editors Hidayat Nagori Sherry Wehner, MD Charities/Politics Editor Desiree Serna Social Media Marketing Markell Holland Maria Kristina Health & Wellness Senior Editor Karen Grace Business & Networking Events Editor Katharine McMillan, PhD Food & Wine Editor Bryan Shreve Fashion Consultant Lorena H. Monroe

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CONTENTS COVER STORY

FASHION

MUSIC

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TRAVEL

FAITH, HOPE & CHARITY

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PAGE 83

BUSINESS PAG 18

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FOOD & WINE

HEALTH & FITNESS

ART

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Violeta Burja Healthy Mind Healthy Life!

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Text by John Robert Mack | Photography by Wally Lafaiete

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ioleta Burja has changed my life. When I entered the cozy home office where she conducts energy healing sessions, I brought with me an uncomfortable knowledge that I’m spinning my wheels these days with no idea how to change that. When I left two hours later, I felt lighter, and I understood the steps I need to take to start moving forward.

“That’s what drives me,” she told me. “It’s great to see the hope in someone’s eyes, the shift in the energy of a person. It’s not necessary for people to go through so much pain in their life. They just have to change their perspective.”

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Violeta Burja: Intuitive Energy Healer & Life Coach

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Helping her clients make that change is exactly what she does. I should know; before the interview I had an energy healing session with her that I am still thinking about a month later. Bear in mind, I went into the session with a reporter’s skepticism. Afterward? As far as I’m concerned, she’s the real deal.

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How does someone change their perspective?

If you climb up a small hill you can see further... well, some people don’t hike at all, of course, and so they see nothing, but if you climb up a hill, or if you stand on a mountain, you can see further. From the top of Mt. Everest, you can see a lot.

You see the big picture. That refers to our perception of the world, our lives and everything around us which can be changed by lifting our awareness and raising our vibration to higher levels of existence.

Only when we change from the inside will we change the life, people and circumstances we experience. Our life is a mirror of our inside world. If you want to see something else in that mirror, you have to change yourself first. Not others, not your partner, boss, parents... just yourself ! And then, things will shift. Getting there is a long-life process of conscious decisions made every single day. You need a willingness to change and take responsibility instead of insisting on the role of victim, an understanding that the power to change is already in every one of us, and an unshakable belief in a higher good.

And what is your big picture?

Mine? I am here to help others, to lift the

clouds and shine the light. I don’t want it to sound too mystical or pretentious, not at all, but I want to help shine the sunlight through the clouds, so people can see the view from the mountaintop, to see how their life could be better, or happier, or healthier. I want to give them the tools to achieve their goals, to reach their potential.

Why do you suppose so few people are able to do that on their own?

Because we are not taught to think that way. Many just don’t know how, and it’s sometimes easier to blame others for our misfortune than admit we’re wrong. Besides, I’ve learned over the years that we are all on different stages of our journey, everybody has different lessons to learn in this lifetime and their own pace to learn them. Some people are willing to climb the mountain. Some are afraid to take the first step. And that’s fine, too. Nothing is better or worse, it’s just different. There’s a right time for everything.

And how do you help them take that first step?

It’s important to understand we are not just physical beings. Of course, we have physical bodies, but there is so much more to it: emotional, mental and spiritual levels of our existence. Even though we cannot see those levels or touch them, they’re there, interconnected with our physical part. Other levels of our body are just as real as the physical one, although many have a hard time believing in them. How do you know you love somebody? Love is there, but can you see

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"It’s not necessary for people to go through so much pain in their life.

They just have to change their perspective.”

Violeta Burja

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it with your eyes? Can you touch it with your hands? No, but you know it is there.

It’s the same with God. Have you seen Him? Can you touch Him? No matter, if you’re religious or not, or what kind of faith you practice, this loving powerful energy is there, however you want to name it.

And we’re all part of it, like drops in a vast ocean. There are already so many scientific studies that show this unseen energy world.

All the ancient teachings have described it, and now we’re rediscovering something that was once well known and practiced.

There is much more to the world than what we can see or touch.

So, I look into somebody’s energy—into the finer levels of the human body—and find the source of the blockages on a deeper level. I release them while channeling healing energy through me, through my hands, to my client. In my belief, it always starts with the finer energy level and then manifests outwardly into the physical world. For example, abuse from childhood is visible in a person’s energy body and blocks that person in daily life even decades after it occurred. Strong fear from a traumatic event early in life creates negative behavioral patterns, anxiety or depression years after.

they will pray for someone, but they never realize that this energy can also be used for healing.

What makes you different from others in your field?

My focus is on finding and releasing the source of an issue—pain, illness, emotional distress— whatever you’re experiencing that is blocking you in your life. This source is visible to me on a deeper level. As I told you, its origin is rooted in traumatic events, unresolved emotional patterns, unhealthy relationships going all the way back to your childhood. Every case is unique, of course, but everything I see, all the information I receive, is meant to be revealed to help my client better understand the situation, to enlighten the connection between the origin and the current situation, and to give the opportunity to move past that, to make a positive change.

I must emphasize that my clients come to me as blank pages; I prefer not knowing anything about them prior to the first session. I tune-in to their energy, and the information flow starts. It’s the images where I learn about my clients, rather like a movie scene unfolding in front of my eyes with sound, emotions, and an understanding of Where does the energy you use come the person. Keep in mind, I only receive from? information connected to the blockage, not You could say it comes from God, the every detail of their life, and I don’t interUniverse, the Source. I am just a vessel act with anybody’s energy without prior channeling the energy that flows through permission. me. There is a universal energy all around us. You just need to know how to connect So, you receive the information from to it and then you can transfer it to somethe universe and act as a conduit to body else. It’s the same as prayer or posgive the information to your client. itive thoughts. People are used to saying Right. That’s a very important part of the

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healing process. Someone is brought here so they can receive not only the healing energy during the session, but also the information they need to change their perspective. Then they can make positive changes and shift towards a better, healthier and happier version of themselves.

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When did you first realize you had these abilities?

I’ve always had a strong feeling about people and been able to see behind their façades; I sensed if people told me the truth. I’ve also naturally used my intuition as a guide all my life and would simply know the outcome when faced with different options in my life. But I never believed it was anything special. I assumed everyone did that. Then I discovered yoga when I was nineteen and had this incredible vision of an entire rainbow in front of my closed eyes that I couldn’t ignore. I started seeing more and more of these colors and searched for answers. What did it all mean? Along the way I discovered an entirely new dimension of existence. I’ve studied ever since, in every possible way—about myself, about the spiritual world, about different techniques and teachings—expanding my knowledge and unveiling something new every day. Through the years, my abilities for sensing others grew, and, with my passion to help others, I found my life’s purpose. I see things, I hear them, I feel them, and I try to put everything into words as best I can.

From an early age, I felt the urge to help others, but back then I didn’t know how to explain something I knew was there but they couldn’t see. They had to live through all this suffering, but I could see the big picture. I’ve always seen the big picture, and now, having worked in this field all this time, I do what I can to help my clients maybe find a path to a higher hill, or maybe even see the view from the top of the mountain.

I definitely experienced a broader perspective after my session with Violeta. She pinpointed some childhood issues I had, in fact, resolved years ago.

Since I’d dealt with them, I was reluctant to believe her at first, but then I realized that recent events had “rolled me back down the hill,” as it were.

Without knowing any embarrassing details—she’s not a psychic, after all— she had metaphors and images and insights that not only helped me understand what has had me stymied for the past year, but she also gave me concrete “baby steps” to start making my way up the hill again. I’ve already planned a second session with her. Who knows, given enough time, I may just want to climb a mountain.

www.heal-holistic.com

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"The public’s votes will determine just how much change there will be. Justice Rebeca Martinez’ record speaks for itself. Vote on November the 6th or vote early anywhere in the county beginning October 22-November 2. Don’t be guilty of complacency."

"I am just a vessel channeling the energy that flows through me."

Violeta Burja

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It's a free, fun, 8-week live healthier challenge. Earn points with every healthy selfie you upload and share!

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busi·ness (bîz¹nîs) noun 18

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Andres Gonzalez

Have you ever volunteered with a person for years for a non-profit, and knew he must be a master at what he does professionally because of his take charge manner and wise perspectives?

Ask anyone who has volunteered with Andres Gonzalez at Central Catholic High School events or on boards, and they agree he is force of nature. What most of them will NOT know, because of his tremendous modesty, is how powerful he is in his professional life.

Andres has been involved in business and politics in Texas and nationally for over 35 years. He founded Andres Gonzalez and Associates, a public affairs and political consulting firm in 1992. The firm represents businesses, public entities, political organizations, non-profits and candidates.

Since 2016, he has headed up Government Relations/Business Development for Lockwood, Andrews & Newnam, a civil 19 engineering firm. He serves on the Board of Directors of The Hispanic Institute.

Andres has run U.S. Senate and statewide races, and has worked on or consulted to 25+ Congressional races in 20 states.

He served as Executive Director of the DNC Hispanic Outreach Project; Special Assistant to U.S. Senator Robert Krueger; White House Liaison for FEMA under President Clinton; and Director of Agency Administration for Texas General Land Office.

Yet, with these demanding positions, Andres volunteers for endless hours for his alma mater Central Catholic, where he serves on the Alumni Association Board of Directors and chairs the school’s Wild Game Dinner which has raised over $300,000 since 2016.

A graduate of the UT-Austin with a BBA in Accounting, he and his wife Zonia have three sons who are all CCHS alumni. Two graduated from Texas A&M and UT-Austin; one attends MIT.

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DRIVEN TO SUCCESS

MIKEANTHONY OPENS UP ON LIVING IN THE FAST LANE

"Life has had its share of speed bumps, wrong turns, and dead ends but at the end of 2018 MikeAnthony feels he has finally arrived at a good place in life."

By Katharine Kaye McMillan

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ikeAnthony Torres lives—and learns—fast. To say that the 32 year-old entrepreneur—he has launched multiple lines of businesses and a nonprofit—is driven to success is an understatement.

“This year has proven that hard work truly pays off.

From waking up early to grinding long hours to working out…to building relationships to building a strong reputation to staying true to myself, it has been worth it,” he posted as @MikeAnthonyTorres on Facebook.

He is quick to share his insights for succeeding in life, love, and business publicly as a keynote speaker and thought leader. “We all have a story to share but it is up to us to share it. Some will and some are too scared because they think they will be judged and— you know what?—you will be judged but I promise if you share your story you will notice the positive because your story can make a huge difference in someone’s life,” he says.

Raised by a single mother, he did not speak until he was 6 years old. Special programs taught him to cope with delayed speech and learning disabilities but he veered off the path of excelling at academics and “started to develop a bad attitude.” He left home at 17, barely graduated from high school, alienated friends and family, and in his twenties found himself headed in the wrong direction.

“My mom died in 2015, the rock bottom year for me.,” he recalls, “I lost everything.” He was “dead ass broke” (he carries the -$528 bank receipt as motivation), unemployable from a series of run-ins with the law, and suffered from “depression and suicidal thoughts.”

Of the negative spiral of events that led him to cut toxic ties and stop self-destructive behavior, he says: “It was a bad year…I used the pain to create my new purpose for life.”

He spent 2016 launching businesses that would eventually earn him new found self-respect along with a growing income by 2017. Among his successes are Four 17 Solutions, a marketing/branding firm, and a nonprofit, Purple Diamond Lupus Foundation which honors his late mother who battled the autoimmune disorder.”

MikeAnthony’s Rebirth Year of 2018 found him focusing on a leading a life fueled by faith. A typical Sunday has him asking who needs prayers. “It’s amazing how walking in and walking out of CBC makes me feel.

It’s absolutely perfect! I feel so inspired and blessed. #Inspired #Blessed #LivingProof,” he posted.

Says Cesar Torres, his elder brother who also shares the entrepreneurial spirit, “No one has succeeded at rebuilding his life better than MikeAnthony.” Both Torres brothers have made transforming mindsets something of a part time enterprise. The two launched workshops entitled Talk B.A.D. Mindset and Leadership Workshops and will double their offerings with programs for women entrepreneurs.

“I can teach anyone how to build a six-figure business in year,” he says. To date, he has mentored 32 protégés. “He supports, advocates for, and motivate everyone through his faith and my networks,” says Cierra Flores. He is a good Christian guy...and he is making strides in the marketing world,” says Ricardo Sanchez at Castle Ridge Mortuaries, an advisor.

2019 will see the launching of a networking group, The TABLE, which stands for his core values of Teachable, Attitude, Bold, Leverage, and Educate. “The TABLE will be hyper-focused on accelerating your business,” he says, adding, “and, it will only attract business owners serious about growing their business.” The TABLE is slated for Tuesday 6:00 a.m. breakfast at Sarita’s Mexican Restaurant-Medical Center starting in January.

Life has had its share of speed bumps, wrong turns, and dead ends but at the end of 2018 MikeAnthony feels he has finally arrived at a good place in life. “I’m blessed to continue my sobriety of 900+ days and blessed to have businesses that are growing with an amazing team. I am truly happy with my life,” he posted.

Reflecting on his journey and his fast-paced life, MikeAnthony paused for a brief moment to reflect, slowing down just long enough to post these words, “This has all been amazing! …This is just the beginning ... I’m not done yet, there’s more to come!” And all at supersonic speed.

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Wells Fargo Advisors SA MONTHLY MAGAZINE Financial Advisor Named to Forbes Magazine Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors San Antonio Advisor Chad Mitchell is Ranked Among Top in Nation.

Chad Mitchell, Senior Vice PresidentInvestments at Wells Fargo Advisors, was recently named one of Forbes Magazine Top Next-Gen Wealth Advisors. The list represents the nation’s most talented financial advisors who represent the future of the wealth management industry.

Nominated by his firm then vetted and ranked by SHOOK Research, Mitchell was assessed on in-person interviews, industry experience, compliance records, revenue produced and assets under management.

22 While much of the ranking focuses on quantitative results, Mitchell credits the qualitative aspects of his career for his success such as a supportive company and strong client relationships. Since graduating from Texas A&M in 2003, Mitchell has worked for other firms in the financial industry, but he’s found the most encouraging and resourceful leadership at Wells Fargo Advisors. Many of Mitchell’s clients have followed him throughout his career – a testament to his dedicated and loyal service.

“Financial advisors don’t have control over the markets, but they do have influence in their client relationships,” Mitchell says. “Our job as advisors is to listen to our clients’ goals, understand their circumstances and use our insight and company resources to guide them toward the best financial outcome for them and their family.”

Chad Mitchell

Senior Vice President and Lone Star Complex Manager Rick Folmar works closely beside Mitchell and sees his dedication to his clients. Mitchell’s work ethic and enthusiasm for helping clients is second to none, Folmar says.

“I am proud to support colleagues like Chad who are excited about serving their neighbors and communities,” Folmar says.

“Chad brings a fresh perspective and excitement for helping people navigate the often-confusing world of financial investment. We’re privileged to have him serving San Antonio.”

While being named to the Forbes Magazine list is an honor few in the nation can claim, Mitchell is humble and is quick to share the recognition.

“Being included on the list means a lot to me,” Mitchell says. “But it doesn’t honor just me. It’s a reflection of the wonderful clients I serve and their important goals we’ve been able to accomplish together.”

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Your financial goals are important.

Let us help you get there.

CHAD MITCHELL, Senior Vice President - Investments 9311 San Pedro, Suite 1200 San Antonio , Tx 78216 210-377-7760 | 800-531-5517 Fax: 210-377-7745 chad.mitchell@wellsfargoadvisors.com

Investment and Insurance Products: NOT FDIC Insured NO Bank Guarantee MAY Lose Value Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC a Registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. © 2018 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved. CAR 1118-02229 [74029-v5] A1675 IHA-530383

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When Kimberly Straughan, CTA, takes on something, she just doesn’t give it her all—she excels! Case in point: Kimberly was hired by The County Line as Events and Community Manager for its two sister restaurants on the incredible River Walk restaurants in San Antonio—Barriba Cantina and The County Line BBQ—in 2014. In 2016, she coordinated and hosted Barriba Cantina’s Fifth Anniversary Party, which went on to win the Best Corporate Event Award at the ILEA Antonian Awards, and was nominated for the Texas Star Awards Best Corporate Event.

Second case in point: When Kimberly was hired

by County Line, it was her first foray into the tourism industry. She quickly earned the Certified Tourism Ambassador certification, and within two years, she was elected as president of the Alamo Area Hospitality Association. Within three years, she was nominated for two San Antonio Tourism Council Awards: the Milton Guess Hospitality Award for outstanding contributions to the travel and tourism industry, and the Hospitality Super Star Award that recognizes future leaders in the industry. In 2017 she was the Director of Programs for the National Association for Catering & Events (NACE) Alamo Chapter. She is also a member of the International Live Events Association (ILEA), Texas Restaurant Association, and San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo Ticket Committee.

Raised in Magnolia, TX and a graduate of University of North Texas with a BBA in Marketing, she moved to San Antonio to be closer to her family after college, and now considers San Antonio and its River Walk as her home. “Kimberly is such an asset to our Barriba Cantina and County Line family,” says Vanessa Miller, Director of Special Events, The County Line, Inc. “Her commitment to staying educated, involved and a mentor within the SA community has given her a more global perspective and an upper hand on the trends that affect the local restaurant scene and events industry. We are grateful for her lively spirit and keeping us all on our toes.” Watch Kimberly in action, or contact her at Barriba Cantina or The County Line at 111 W. Crockett St. or 210-228-9876.

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Kimberly Straughan

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AN INTERVIEW WITH DENETTE BUENROSTRO "A successful woman is one who can build a firm

foundation with bricks others have thrown at her."

How did you get started in your career?

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I was a combat medic in the US Army and knew that when my tour was ending I wanted to continue to serve my community but as a nurse.

Do you have a career plan?

Currently my company is in 53 locations throughout the US and one in Australia, I would love to see Epicc worldwide and be able to service patients with the best ethical, compassionate care possible and allow nurses to own their own Epicc Vascular Franchise.

I also want my cosmetic line Buenrostro by Epicc to

be worldwide as well. My cosmetic line empowers women to be powerful because all my cosmetics have inspirational names like Risktaker, Massive Success, All or Nothing, Like a Boss, Closing Contracts, Trailblazer, Undefeatable and Empowered!

How do you define Success?

My favorite quote says it all; "A successful woman is one who can build a firm foundation with bricks others have thrown at her."

Who has been your greatest Inspiration?

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Denette's Advice to Women: 1- Never give up, EVER! 2- You are who you surround yourself with 3- Don't be afraid to fail

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My husband. We are both prior military but he was a Special Operations Ranger Officer and he lives by the Ranger Creed which I encourage all to read to understand what an incredible man I married. One portion of the Ranger Creed says "I will always keep myself mentally alert, physically strong, and morally straight and I will shoulder more than my share of the task, whatever it may be, 100% and then some". He's my world, my role model and my rock. I'm truly honored that he chose me to spend the rest of his life with.

What has been your most satisfying moment in your career?

When women come up to me and say "Denette because of what you have been through and what you have done to overcome I didn't give up."

www.epicctx.com

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

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When asked how she came to own a travel agency—even though she tremendously enjoys her very busy career as a Public Relations consultant and Special Events coordinator—Jeanne Albrecht explains in her characteristic rapid-fire thread of thoughts: “My travel agent asked me years ago if I would like to become a travel agent and I said ‘hell, yes.’ Travel is definitely my husband’s and my most expensive pastime, so it just made sense to learn as much as possible about the industry. Three years later when he asked me if I would like to buy the Cruise & Tour Center agency from him, I replied ‘Oh, hell yes.’ Even though I am now juggling three businesses, I love them all. Who wouldn’t love clients like “A Night In Old San Antonio,’ County Line B-B-Q, Central Catholic High School, Tuesday Musical Club and the San Antonio Conservation Society?”

Jeanne says she splits her time pretty evenly between PR/Special Events and travel, even though it does mean some really early wake-up times to get it all done. Even though she majored in

education and math at UT-Austin, she says coordinating PR, special events and travel comes quite naturally to her. “The skills I innately possess serve me well in all three of those fields: over-charged attention to detail; strong communication tactics; tenacity to persistently bug people oh-so-politely; and the patience to do exhaustive research. It must be the mathematician in me….or maybe because I am the middle child in a family of seven!

I love to set up a scenario and then figure out all the things that can go wrong--and also anticipate every question--so I am prepared.”

Personally, her #1 passion is “undeniably my family,” led by husband Don; five “fantastic” children and spouses; two grandsons that rule the world; her super-large family of six loving siblings, their spouses, their kids and spouses; tons of cousins; a precious sister-in-law and great cousins-in-law. She relishes her large network of friends, many that she met during her Incarnate Word high school days, that “always have my back.”

Favorite places she has visited? “If I have to narrow it down, my top picks are Greece, Normandy, Barcelona, Positano, New Zealand, Austria. In the US, my friends will know why I pick Marfa, New Jersey and Ft. Worth.”

Places on her bucket list?

Germany, northern Italy, Vietnam, river cruise on the Columbia and Snake rivers, and Buenos Aires.

Knowing Jeanne, she will make all of these, and more!

Goodtaste Starts Here

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Tanji is an Emmy award winning journalist pursuing her passion for wine and food.

Tanji explores the inviting worlds of chefs, wine makers and culinary newsmakers. Her snappy, fun videos entice even the most novice of chefs to get into the kitchen and createÖwith a glass of wine nearby, of course.

Hundreds of thousands view her Goodtaste content via a wide range of media. Tanji is the Executive Producer and host of Goodaste with Tanji, a television series that showcases chefs and restaurants from all over the state. The show airs in 13 Texas markets. She also produces a digital show at Goodtaste.tv.

In creating content for Goodtaste.tv, Tanji works with top chefs and winemakers. Lidia Bastianich has actually cooked in Tanjiís kitchen! Tanjiís husband Mike is her partner in Goodtaste, and their exploration of wines leads them to wine regions all over the world.

Tanji has worked as an investigative reporter, news anchor, producer and host. Many of her investigative reports earned statewide and national interest and acclaim. Her indepth coverage of such issues as racial discrimination in the child adoption process led to changes in Texas state law.

Top Gun TanjiAfter the 9/11 attacks, Tanji reported from the Pentagon. Once the war in Afghanistan started, she reported from the USS Theodore Roosevelt in the Arabian Sea. On a lighter note, Tanji was the original host and executive producer of a local lifestyle show called San Antonio Living, from 1997 to 2002. Her hosting expertise got national exposure when she co-hosted Live with Regis twice in 2000 during the nationwide search for a co-host. For more than 5 years, Tanji worked with chefs from all over the country to present their dishes to her audiences.

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Tanji Napa - Tanji & MikeTanji and her husband Mike visit vineyards all over the world (seen here with Rob and Lydia Mondavi) to pursue their interest in wine. Theyíve taken a number of wine classes including the prestigious Wine Spirit and Education Trust of Londonís obtaining the WSET Level 2 certification. Tanji has also taken a number of the culinary courses at the Culinary Institute of Americaís campus in San Antonio.

Tanji is also a member of prestigious Les Dames díEscoffier, the International Chaine des Rotisseurs, a Chef Rotisseur, and a past board member of Culinaria ñ the San Antonio wine and food festival. She also serves on the advisory board of the Bexar County Family Justice Center.

Tanji is a recipient of the Texas Tech University College of Mass Communications Distinguished Alumni award. She received a B.A. in journalism from the University while working as a reporter and anchor at the local affiliate KLBK TV.

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Jackleen Rios

Jackleen Rios has the radiance of a fine gemstone. She exudes the fire and glow that comes from living her passion. She currently owns and operates her own studio in our Deco district. It is only with great commitment and dedication that one can create a successful business doing what they love, and she is doing just that at San Antonio’s “Jewel of Art” dance studio.

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Creating “jewels” through the art of dance.

Describing herself as a “young Latina with an incredible passion for the art of dance”, she was born and raised here, and even at the age of four, knew that dancing was her heart’s desire. Like many little girls, her mother enrolled her in ballet classes as a toddler, but dance was more to her even then, than a series of classes. As she continued with her dance instruction into elementary school, she was leading in most performances. Later in her training, the faculty allowed her to take charge

In 2015, Jackleen decided she wanted of this area within the fine arts department and she began teaching dance to her peers. to open her own studio, and embarked SA MONTHLY MAGAZINE Though she loved taking center stage, and on a quest to find a suitable location. In being the star, she realized she had even a her search, she secured a beautiful 1920’s building located in the area of the city called greater passion for teaching the art. the “Deco District” for its classic art deco Jackleen continued teaching dance through style ambiance and architecture, perfect for her senior year in high school, graduated setting up her studio she named “The Jewel with a 4.0 GPR, and received a scholarship of the Art”. As a business woman, Rios is to the University of North Texas, where committed to the concept of giving back to she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in her community. “Small businesses are the choreography. Wanting to know everything arteries and heartbeat that supply financial about this creative art form and the stability to our great city”, she says. Within bodilymovement required to perfect it, she this community she found a wealth of eager went on to receive her Masters’ degree in students, supportive parents and dedicated kinesiology from The University of Texas at faculty members. This faculty or “jewel family” San Antonio. In the following years, she taught as she calls them, have a strong bond with one at many dance studios and for 7 years was another and create a pleasant and friendly the dance director and choreographer for environment for students. the Young Women’s Leadership Academy National Blue-Ribbon School.

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All of the instructors at The Jewel of the Art dance studio teach traditional genres of dance such as ballet and jazz, but also less traditional forms of dance like hip hop and modern dance. Children and adult classes are both taught. Rios describes her studio’s mission as being a stepping stone toward producing refined and brilliant dancers. She is dedicated to developing well-rounded and exceptional dancers, challenging students to achieve excellence, and assisting each one to achieve the discipline and confidence to pursue their passion of this art form.

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Jackleen Rios considers her students to be her “precious jewels�

and just like a rare gem, each one should shine with brilliance. With the commitment that Rios has, her brand of polish is sure do just that.

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Photo by Lafaiete PhotoPhoto by Lafaiete Photography SA MONTHLY MAGAZINE

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Photos by Lafaiete Photography

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Women in Business Tracy Walker Tracy Walker shares her journey through the world of communication and health, and how that path led her to IT’S TIME TEXAS, an Austin based non-profit organization empowering people to lead healthier lives and build healthier communities.

Tracy started her career in broadcast media.

She spent 15 years in the radio broadcast industry, working for various media entities, including iHeart Media and San Antonio’s legendary 99.5 KISS. Her work in San Antonio involved organizations like the Animal Defense League of Texas, South Texas Blood & Tissue Center, and the Little Church of La Villita.

While in San Antonio, Tracy discovered a love for health and fitness while taking a Jazzercise class at what was known as Windsor Park Mall. Before long she was teaching dance and fitness classes as a hobby at a gym on Austin Highway called Purely Physical. During a hip-hop class at Concord Athletic Club, she was surprised when two Spurs players showed up to learn a few moves.

“They thought the class would help with their dexterity,” Tracy remembers, “I not so sure they needed help, but we had a great time, it was like a big dance party!”

Tracy’s passion for helping others improve their health soon led her to the world of the non-profit. She worked in marketing and communications for organizations like Susan G. Komen before landing at IT’S TIME TEXAS. “We help Texans gain access to health and

that's what I love about our mission.”

Her passion for community and communicating the message of good health runs deep through her personal and professional life based on the relationships she’s cultivated over the years.

IT’S TIME TEXAS hosts fun initiatives throughout the year, including the preeminent community health conference; the Healthier Texas Summit, Texas Walks, Healthy Texas Week and the It’s Time Texas Community Challenge that starts January 7 and runs through March 3. Presented by HEB, the Challenge is an 8-week healthy living competition that unites communities to transform their health. The initiative is one of Tracy’s favorites. “You earn points just by going for a walk or reaching out to Mayor Nirenberg to host an IT’S TIME TEXAS event. Plus, there are lots of fun opportunities for healthy selfies. Snap a photo preparing a healthy meal, or of you and friends getting ready for your Zumba class.”

Registration for the Community Challenge is now open, and it's completely free to participate. Just visit www.ITTcommunitychallenge. com. Be sure and ‘like’ IT’S TIME TEXAS on Facebook to keep up with new updates and win prizes.

Website: www.itstimetexas.org Facebook: @itstimetx Twiterr: @itstime

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fash·ion (fàsh¹en) noun

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CAS UA L LU X U RY WRAP YOUR SELF IN CASUAL LUXURY

The New Collection is soft textures and effortless styles that are beyond chic.

From the coziest Sweaters , Feaux Fur Jackets to get ready for the Winter Season .

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Weekend - To Work - Go to Options ....

Up Date your Wardrobe with the Newest Colors and Prints .

Must Have Pieces / Soft Flowing / Easy Styles

FINISHING TOUCHES

43 THE IT GIRLS

The Fall Festival of Finishing touches in a New Collection .

Gold , Pearls , and Metallic Colors of Metals and Tassels.

These Looks are ready to UP Date any Wardrobe .

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T O U C H O F G ol d

Black - and - White - Elevate Your Palette with a touch of Gold .

Love the subtle touches of shimmer head to toe shine with gold .

This fusion is a Sleek and Sophisticated update for the Season .

WEAR IT LIKE NO ONE ELSE The New Dresses / Jumpsuits are Figure Flattering with Modern Updates .

Graphic Bright Prints , Lovely Details , and Unexpected Cutouts .

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D an i e l E s p i n o s a S a n A n t o n io The Sho p s a t La Ca nt era , T. [ 2 1 0 ] 5 5 8 3 8 7 8 dan ie le s pin o s a. c o m

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FASHION SHOWS LOOKBOOKS

PERSONAL/EVENT STYLING

COMMERCIAL PRINT ADS/TV

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AGONZALES219@GMAIL.COM 210.535.5411

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FASHION SHOWS LOOKBOOKS

PERSONAL/EVENT STYLING

COMMERCIAL PRINT ADS/TV

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HAIR STYLIST by Rachel Perez AGONZALES219@GMAIL.COM 210.535.5411

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fall

is here and it’s time to heat things up! This bold color is such a vibrant “fashion” color. Also, it is as healthy as it is luscious and beautiful. Time to shine! #rachellebeautylounge

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This over-the-top hairstyle, worn by model Andrea, was created with a 6” ponytail coated in bling! Bold red lips, and a winged eyeliner add perfectly to this edgy statement.

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This gorgeous look conveys a sexy feel, accompanied with strength and grace all in one. Model Neringa is naturally a dark blonde, but WOW! She certainly does shine as an electrifying red head. With a minimal style makeup this color looks absolutely beautiful and natural!

HMUA#rachellebeautylounge

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This hot vibe is certainly heating up this kitchen!

Model Brit flexing on the holidays this year! Radiating total glam with this new school version of a classic pin up hairstyle.

Glazed and glowing she shines in the dark using strong, dramatic hair and makeup styles. HMUA#rachellebeautylounge

Who is

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TIM CADENA?

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53 A native to San Antonio and a Veteran to our country, Tim is a man of strength, creativity and is intuitive to a deeper form of photography than most. He’s an artist who wants to tell a story. More importantly one with a message. In today’s world with all the stories told through technology he chooses to showcase a raw image rather than one perfected for a picture perfect vision. This in many cases can be risky if not executed properly. This man here, this is his specialty!

He mentions in our interview that kindness inspires him, and this to me is beautiful and refreshing to hear. Being a man who also copes with PTSD, he uses photography therapeutically to relieve anxiety through creativity. It is important and amazing to know that we can help ourselves in doing things we love and enjoy. But by also enduring a virtual intimacy, you are able to connect on a deeper, artistic level that can leave you with a feeling of great accomplishment!

They say how you feel in a picture will show through, and it does. These portraits captured and created by this local SA photographer definitely tell beautiful, mindfulness stories!

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WHO DOES YOUR HAIR REMOVAL?

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Imagine never having to deal with unwanted hair again. It wasn’t that long ago when laser hair removal treatments were only an option for celebrities. These days, who HASN’T tried them? Laser hair removal has become so mainstream and so affordable that it’s surprising we still have any unwanted hair left! With the latest technology, hair removal treatments are now available for most skin colors and almost all hair colors.

The best part? Treatments are now virtually pain free!

The science behind light based hair removal is incredible! IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) machines use light that is then converted to heat which will travel to the base of a hair follicle, destroying it. All of this is done while preserving the integrity of the surrounding skin. Because hair grows in cycles and treatments only destroy follicles during their active phase, multiple sessions will be needed. The good news is that with each session, you are closer and closer to hairfree skin.

Hair removal treatments can be performed at any time of the year but similar to going to the gym, if we want to be beach ready for next summer, the best time to start is NOW! You can bet you won’t miss your razor, ingrown hairs, stubble or those annoying spots you accidentally missed shaving and just happen to notice at really awkward times (knees anyone?)

At Bio2 Skin Studio and Medspa at The Shops at La Cantera, your laser hair removal provider will be an experienced professional certified by the state of Texas. Still have questions? Your consult and test patch is completely free! The time to start is NOW!

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Do you ever think about what you’re wearing when you go to the gym?

For us guys, the only time this thought really comes up is when our underwear is making us uncomfortable...

Yes. Believe it or not, this issue arises every day no matter what exercise.

You see, most men’s underwear has more rigid seams (especially boxer shorts) and we could be doing anything from squats to lunges, or overhead press, at some point during the workout “underwear displacement” WILL happen, and it is terribly annoying Also, most men’s underwear is made of cotton... or polyester.

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You know what else is made of cotton?

Sweatshirts. Sweatpants. Beanies.

THINGS THAT MAKE YOU SWEAT. Trash bags, ketchup bottles, and other insulators are made of polyester.

56 See the pattern here?

Without getting into too much detail, let’s just say that after a hard workout, you really just need to throw your skivvies into a biohazard containment unit.

It’s no surprise that 70% of men are dissatisfied with their current collection of drawers and we all know there’s some who’ve given up and gone commando.

BUT, now there’s UnderGents.

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These new badass boxer/briefs are made with CloudSofto, a unique fabric blend with micro modal sourced from nature, that is sustainable & ultra-soft along with support and stretch, all while keeping you cool as a polar bear’s toenails. All the time.

The “Vitruvian Man” multi-panel design with all-way stretch moves with your body so there is no binding and pulling.

Your body moves in all directions, and so should your underwear.

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www.undergents.com

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CUSTOM CLOTHING, LOCATED IN SOUTHTOWN.

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LOCATED INSIDE THE HISTORIC ROOSEVELT LIBRARY 311 ROOSEVELT AVENUE SAN ANTONIO, TX 78210

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY CALL/TEXT 210.920.1347 LIMATUSBESPOKE.COM

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JOSH MANKIN

MALE MODEL OF THE MONTH

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God’s

Plan:

It’s incredible the things that change or happen when you think you know what your plan is when in fact all of that can change real quick. Modeling was always something brought up to me amongst my family and friend group but, I was never really one to chase it, in fact every time I said, “If that is what God want’s me to do , then he will open the certain doors needed to step foot into that industry”, and did he ever open up so many doors. My plan was actually to work up as a Bakery Manager for HEB, which I still currently work at, as well as the process of finishing school at the same time. The clear door opened for me in the modeling industry and all of a sudden plans had changed.

It started one night when my Aunt called me and said that there were two world famous barber’s touring around America and they needed volunteer model’s to do their work on, and I said hey why not! At this time I had no experience in modeling, I just baked cookies and pies at HEB. So the show proceeded and after it , there was a meet and greet with the audience watching.

A certain hairstylist asked if I have ever modeled and I told him no. He asked for my information and told me he knew of a wonderful agent in San Antonio and would love to get me connected, and the rest was history!

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My first appearance at Lari Nelson Agency was on a Wednesday night, the beginners class, and I was nervous for sure considering I have never done anything like this. By the end of the class she told me to just start coming on Tuesday’s where the real action was, and I said holy cow that quick?! And yes, it has been quick, but modeling was the best decision I have made simply because it was on God’s timing.

Of course I learned all the different techniques to modeling, the walk, the pose, all the Model terminology. After learning all of this and having my first Photo Shoot done, Lari Nelson / My Mother Agent told Me about the Model and Talent Expo in Dallas presented by Mr. Mike Beaty.

We worked fast to prepare Me for this Amazing Event that Agents come to Dallas from All over the World . I was very fortunate and received 10 call backs from different Agencies . But, the biggest thing of all that I have gotten out of this, is My 66 platform.

Every single person, even if you know just one person, has a platform to inspire others.

Only we know what that platform is, what is mine you ask?

Mine is to show that : 1. Jesus is real, his love is real, and his grace is real. And in this industry there are so many challenges, as well as so many incredible opportunities. But in the end it is not about us, do everything out of love, do everything for Jesus.

2. I want to show all people that, never expect anything because it can all change real quick but, whatever it is that you do, do it passionately, step out in faith and work it like you have never worked it before.

You have a talent and you have Jesus, it is amazing the things you can do with just those two!

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Future plans for me, I just finished my Associate Degree hours from Del Mar College and I am graduating in December. Furthermore, I plan on finishing out my Bachelors in Marketing all while modeling as well. I am also signed with MMG out of New York City and Los Angeles and I could not be more blessed with an incredible agent and agency out of those cities as well, so my goal is to become a full time model through them and Lari Nelson Fashion Group / My Mother Agency.

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To conclude I want to thank some very influential people in my life.

1. I thank my savior Jesus Christ every single day and you should too.

2. To my beautiful parents, I love you, yĂ­all are my 68heroes!

3. To my Aunt and Uncle and Grandma, you are truly inspirations in my life in every single way.

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And last but, certainly not least, to Ms. Lari Nelson and Mr. Mike Beaty, what incredible leaders and role models you are, taking me under your wings and paving a path for me in this industry, I am and always will be truly grateful.

Joshuah Mankin

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Deanna Nicholson FEMALE MODEL OF THE MONTH

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As a young girl, I always loved to perform. In elementary school, I enjoyed participating in theater and I later went on to do ballet. Modeling had always been in the back of my mind, but I never really considered it. I had a lot of preconceived ideas of what modeling was, and I also lacked self-confidence. The summer before my freshman year, when I was 14, my mom heard about Nelson Fashion Group from a friend and decided to bring me.

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I was extremely nervous, 72

for my first runway class. At first, walking felt very awkward and unnatural but, by my second class, I was improving and before I knew it the footwork became second nature.

Within a month I learned so much not only about the industry but also about myself. I did my first photo shoot and continued to practice my skills.

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After a few months of training, my mother agent (Lari Nelson) and I decided it was time to explore modeling opportunities outside of San Antonio. There was a lot of preparation that needed to be done. I continued runway classes and began working on my portfolio with Al Zavala as he helped me strengthen my print modeling skills. I attended The Model and Talent Expo in Dallas where I had the opportunity to meet with agencies from all over the world.

After a lot of consideration I decided to sign with the Campbell agency, located in Dallas, Texas. Being signed in Dallas has given me great opportunities to expand my knowledge and experience with jobs and classes.

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I am almost halfway done with my sophomore year in high school, making me 15 years old now. Being so young in74 the industry was often daunting and I am still constantly the youngest at shows.

Being placed in that type of situation has required me to learn very fast and gain important skills such as professionalism and communication which will aid in my future.

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I am very excited to see what is in store for me in the future.

Education is extremely important to me, and I am definitely planning on attending college.

I would love to be able to study something in the field of mathematics because that is what interests me a lot right now. Ideally, I would go to a college near or around the Dallas area so that I could be able to work and continue my studies. After I graduate I would like to one day walk in New York fashion week and work as a model in New York. One thing about the modeling industry is that it is very unpredictable, so for now on, I will just have to wait and see what happens.

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ORBILIA HAYES

The Hat Connoisseur

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Photos by Lafaiete Photography

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A

s a young girl Orbilia Hayes fancied herself a world traveler, her big heart set on adventure: seeing the ancient Seven Wonders of the World which she has accomplished, journeying to six of the globe’s seven continents.

Antarctica, she jokingly says, never held her desire as a destination.

But Orbilia certainly was destined for much more, including having been a beauty queen —and since then a much-loved model on many a San Antonio catwalk for charitable organizations.

Fashion, after all, is one of Orbilia’s interests as well as applying her self-taught milliner skills on many an award-winning hat.

One would never guess that she is retired because this self-professed hat connoisseur is always creating something magnificent.

Through the years she has caught the judges’ eyes with her stunning designs, abundant with peonies, sunflowers, hydrangeas and more — mammoth floral creations that cascade, swirl and land in the winner’s circle. She has won just about every hat prize in the Alamo City.

Recently, her prize-winning hats were modeled on the runway at Sociedad Puertorriqueña’s Spring Luncheon & Fashion Show.

Every Fiesta, Orbilia debuts her hat for

the highly-anticipated Woman’s Club of San Antonio’s Fiesta Hat Contest where is a consistent winner and a crowd favorite.

Through her passion for hat designing she has found a way to give back to San Antonio by enriching the lives of many women living with cancer.

She has donated more than two-thirds of her personal — and extensive — hat collection that includes small brim hats, fascinators, scarves and turbans for everyday wear to women who have lost their hair to chemotherapy and other cancer-fighting treatments.

She keeps her prize-winning hats for future inspiration.

When she’s not creating, Orbilia is involved and supportive of numerous non-profit and charitable organizations that include Friends of Hospice San Antonio and San Antonio Gardenia and Musical Club, among others.

She is a Lifetime Member of the historic Woman’s Club of San Antonio and has served on its board of directors numerous times.

Because of her extensive fashion knowledge she has served as a judge for the Woman’s Club hat contest as well as for the Latina Crown USA, Miss Maverick County, Miss Fourth of July and several other out-of-town competitions.

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79 Orbilia says her mission in life always has been about helping those less fortunate, including friends who are homebound because of illness or a disability.

She helps others “because I am compelled to. I don’t do it for the recognition,” she says, adding “God has blessed me so much — my cup runneth over.”

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Bonita Embarks on New Ventures!

L

orena Hernandez Monroe, founder and C.E.O. of Bonita Ventures LLC., one of the most recognized and successful leaders in business and fashion, is honored to talk about her new company. With all of her success and hard work through her life as an entrepreneur, Lorena has decided to create a production company to help others fulfill their dreams after achieving her own. This is a way she can help others reach the next level in their artistic careers.

The mission of her company is to “discover talent” all around the world and give talented individuals the opportunity to stand out through the many platforms and promotional opportunities the company has gained access to through partnerships such as: participation in Fashion Week events, working with RAW (the world’s largest independent arts organization ) with the indie pop-singer and couture fashion artist/designer Zita-Barbara to produce high end global fashion shows.

“There are those who dream and make their dreams a reality, and those who

stay dreaming. Which one are you?”

Is a question that Lorena is known to ask aspiring artists. Lorena is confident in her ability to turn dreams into a tangible reality and has been working tirelessly with her team to display artists, photographers, models and their talent in order to connect them with opportunities. As a fashion influencer, she connects advertisers, sponsors, businesses interested in marketing services with thousands of engaged audience members she has in attendance online and at each fashion show. The most recent fashion show, in Mexico City, had an attenance of 4,000+ people and included the reigning Miss Texas and Miss Mexico as models. At each showcase Lorena interviews emerging artists, designers, musicians and models to give them a voice and visibility instead of getting lost in the sea of social media. Her ability to highlight others in this way has earned her the title as, “The Voice of Fashion” all over the world.

BonitaNatural.com lorena@bonitanatural.com

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home (hom) noun

Photo by Lafaiete PhotoPhoto by Lafaiete Photography SA MONTHLY MAGAZINE

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Photos by Lafaiete Photography

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Getting to know...

MARY JANE SALGADO

A

real estate professional for over 14 years, Mary Jane has proven herself through integrity, work ethics, and passion for her clients and community. She is able to provide her clients with a personal and dedicated connection when dealing with their real estate investments whether its their “casita” or their new business site.

She has been a dedicated volunteer for the Red Cross, American Cancer Society, March of Dimes and helped co-found the Candles for Life, non-profit financially assisting cancer victims on the border. Her most recent dedication and volunteer work with the homeless of San Antonio through the efforts of Mobil Loaves & Fishes; Little Black Dress Society, addressing doMary Jane comes from a strong enmestic abuse and assistance to some trepreneurial and community servant of the victims; ALS contributions; the background. During her tenure as an Leukemia Lymphoma Society; and the economic developer, she owned small KW Caring and Sharing projects such businesses, sold real estate and was as the Hurricane Relief and rebuild efable to begin investing in the communi- forts (distribution center/Houston/Rock ties she’s lived in.

Port).

She has served on a two gubernatorial appointed boards (State Board of Nursing and Texas Leadership) along with regional, and local boards, as an elected councilwoman advocating for many of her constituents in the Rural community of Eagle Pass. Her experience in community/economic development, neighborhood revitalization, business development, oil and gas, banking, real estate, medical/health, education and rural grassroots issues has empowered her life.

Her dedicated professional purpose is her unparalleled customer service to her clients through her business, MJ Realty Group @ Keller Williams. She has resulted in a continuously expanding network of loyal clients and amazing new referrals. No matter if you are re-locating to San Antonio or anywhere in the US, she will connect you with a member of her network and strong supportive real estate team. Mary Jane grew up in Midland, Texas and holds a BA degree in Business/Marketing and

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1- How did you get started in your career?

I drove back and forth to San Antonio from Eagle Pass to attend real estate classes with the determination to sell real estate to family and friends, while I maintained a full busy life with children, work, business and public service.

2- Do you have a career plan?

Yes, my plan is to grow my team internationally, which is in place at this time.

3- What three pieces of advice would you give other women in business today?

86 a Master degree in Education/Counseling. She raised her three wonderful children in Eagle Pass, Texas where their father served as a federal agent.

Her “Why” are her four grandchildren who all reside in San Antonio. Her only regret is not moving to San Antonio earlier. If you know of anyone needing to buy, sell or invest, Mary Jane is surely going to be your answer for a great experience in getting your purchase/investment done professionally.

Follow her on FB Mary Jane Salgado; Mary Jane KW - Homes; twitter mar-yjaneKW; instagram maryjanerealtor; www.mjsellsproperties.com

My advise is to first to always have a plan/treasure map; save your money; invest your money…. then you are free from depending on banks or anyone else to move forward with your dream.

4- What is most satisfying quality about your job?

The most satisfying quality in my job is seeing the happiness and joy sometime with tears in their eyes, of a new home owner… Such an empowering time for both my clients and myself.

5- What would you say are the greatest challenges in your job?

My greatest challenges is myself. I

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sometimes have those days where I want to just stay in bed, but need to straighten out the mindset with affirmations and remember that life is by design not by default…success is simple but not easy….no pressure no diamonds….. and you can have reasons or results, you can’t have both!!

Affirmations daily do it!

6- In my line of business what motivates you?

The purpose of business is to fund a perfect life… yet nothing is perfect but we sure can try.

7- How do you define success?

I define success when I meet my goals and share my success with those I love and care for.

8 - What has been your greatest inspiration?

In my life, my greatest inspiration are my parents..my father who was a successful businessman and my mother who was a community activist both while raising 8 awesome people (I’m one of them! lol).

inspires the good in people, no matter what their political or religious beliefs are. She is a true honorable lady that I had the pleasure of meeting. She is from my hometown of Midland, Texas.

10- What’s your favorite inspiring quote that reminds you to keep going, to press on, to have faith, to not give up?

There is no chance, no destiny, no fate that can circumvent, hinder, or control the firm resolve of MY determined soul…. DK 11- What does being brave mean to you?

Being brave to me is someone going forward with the desire to help others while bettering themselves everyday of their lives no matter what challenges are placed in front, knowing that those are actually blessings in disguise….we need to acknowledge it, accept it, change it for the better, learn from it, pass it on….. be BRAVE! xoxo 12- What’s the one thing you cannot live without?

9- Who do you wish you could meet The one thing I cannot live without is for the first time again and why? faith. For without faith, we don’t have the belief of love, of our Creator, our I would be honored to meet the former family, our lives…..Thank you God for first lady, Mrs. Laura Bush again. She those precious gifts!!! is a gentle empowering woman that

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INDULGE

The Moment

This is a bold departure from typical with an attitude for the extraordinary. Every function, ever an outstanding residential experience. These numbers add up to amazing interiors with stunnin touches. Polished granite counters, custom grain cabinets and stainless steel appliances are jus also enjoy an all-inclusive pass to everything Dalian 151.

ry detail is calculated for ng layouts and impressive st the beginning. Residents

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210.670.0151 Dalian151.com

Community

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HVA

Indoor and Outdoor Fitness Center / Outdoor Yoga Area / Dual-Level Pool with Beach-Front Entry / In-Water Tanning Ledges / Exclusive Cabana Entertainment Center with Grilling Stations / Social Fire Pit / Lawn Game Area with Bocce Ball, Horseshoes and Washers / Resident Gathering Center with Wi-Fi / Espresso and Coffee Bar / Dog Park with Grooming Station / Available Detached Garages / Rentable Storage Spaces / Extensive Park-Like Landscapes

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Is Trending Perfectly positioned within Westover Hills, Dalian 151 easily 90 opens to the entire city with expressways and Loop 410 nearby. Shopping districts, theme parks, exclusive dining and entertainment surround the community. Major employers, a variety of education options and the airport are only minutes away.

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Two B3 Bed / Two Bath Two Bedroom/Two Bath 1,127 sq. .

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e altered according to construction. Some features are availabe in select homes. Square footage is approximate and subject to change.

an Antonio, TX 78245 / Dalian151.com / 210.670.0151

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A Home Can Own Real Estate in Your Heart

By Autumn Leigh Chaulklin

Trends are showing that more home owners are purchasing older homes with the intention of restoring, rehabbing and repurposing certain features. These homes offer a rich history of family and legacy. Below is a letter I wrote to the owners of my grandparent’s home in Houston.

Dear Friend, I am writing because I have history in your lovely home, being that I am the granddaughter of the very first owners. I have the fondest memories there.

I am very sentimental about homes and history and architecture. In my current occupation as a property manager for multi-family development, I always tell my teams that we are building legacies… and it only dawned on me this year to reach out and share the family 96 legacy of the home in which you dwell, as homes are more than brick and mortar.

The family that grew in that home was a very loving family. My Mamaw and Papaw, Mary and Marion Birowski, were married in 1938. They had three children and seven grandchildren.

My mother went to the nearby high school, Waltrip Senior High. Fun trivia fact - Patrick Swayze was two years below her! Her older sister (my aunt) used to take dance lessons from Patrick Swayze’s mother.

I was telling my older brother, Matthew, who lived in the home after my Papaw died, and up until my Mamaw’s death, that I remembered the sound of the mail being delivered through the metal mail slot in the front living room. I own a chest of drawers that has been passed down through the family that used to reside in the middle bedroom. I remember Mamaw used to keep the top drawers locked and the very top left drawer had toy airplanes inside.

I remember pictures on the walls, Avon perfumes in the cabinets just outside the restroom. Not sure if remodeling has occurred, but there was a half-bath off the master

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bedroom and a full-bath in the center of the home with pink tile. Mamaw used to purchase pink toilet paper embossed with flowers.

There was green swirled carpet in the living areas, hallways and bedrooms (except the kitchen and dining areas).

Mamaw used to keep glass hummingbirds and sun-catchers in the kitchen window. I remember in the early 1980’s two small dogs she kept named Mandy and Terry. Adjacent to the back yard was a man (I think his name was John) who used to breed yellow labs and I remember being in absolute heaven when I would visit and be able to pet lab puppies through the chain-link fence.

Mamaw and Papaw used to love to square dance, and I remember all the square dance dresses hanging in their closet. Something about being a small child and touching the fabric of the dresses… I remember Mamaw’s lipsticks in her medicine cabinet. She would apply lipstick in such a way that would shape the lipstick on both sides. Isn’t it amazing, the details one can remember, when taking a virtual tour through the past?

I was inspired to reach out because I would want you to love that home as much as I did and still do. I was recently in Houston for a Texan’s game, and I drove by to see how it looked, compared to my memory. It’s still as I remember.

Thank you for owning and caring for this precious piece of real estate. You may own the property, but your property owns real estate in my heart. ~ Autumn Leigh Chaulklin is a professional in the multi-family property management industry with 19 years’ experience in leading top-performing teams. Follow her at www. facebook.com/autumn.chaulklin.

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MLS #: 1335679

231 Helena St

San Antonio Offered at $440,000

5 Bedrooms 3/0 Bathrooms 2500 Sq Ft (approx) Additional House

Photo of home from rear of house

Carport leading to guest house

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Outside Guest House

Second floor deck

HOT! Lone Star Area, Two Homes for the price of One and not too far from King William! Take a look at this Beauty! Enjoy those crisp mornings on your porch. You have a spacious home in the front (1846 sq. ft.) and a one bedroom, one bath in the back. Apartment has storage as well and has been remodeled so beautifully. Main home has two living areas, separate dining area with an upstairs loft and a huge deck. Deck overlooks the San Antonio scenery and one can see the fireworks at the Tower of the Americas Lucy Huereca, ABR,GRI,SFR Real Estate Broker / Realtor Legendary Realty 8626 Tesoro Dr. 205M San Antonio, TX 78217 Direct:(210) 214-2685|Cell:(210) 2142685 MYSANANTONIOTXHOME@YAHOO.COM Legendary Realty satxsold.com Other Certifications: CNE Languages Spoken: English,French,Spanish List office: Legendary Realty (210) 214-2685 All measurements and figures are approximate. Source of information is deemed reliable, but not verified.

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MLS #: 1337807

15030 Polynesian San Antonio Offered at $335,000

4 Bedrooms 2/1 Bathrooms 2902 Sq Ft (approx) Large Game Room Lot Size: 0.11

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Come view this beautiful spacious Churchill Estates Home that is a whopping 2902 sq. ft. Master Bedroom is located downstairs with a separate bathtub and shower, a huge restroom fit for royalty. Home features an open concept with living and kitchen area. Three bedrooms are upstairs with a huge game room. There are two living areas, one with a fireplace to enjoy those cold winter nights. Sip coffee on your front covered porch or even your back covered porch.

Lucy Huereca, ABR,GRI,SFR Real Estate Broker / Realtor Legendary Realty 8626 Tesoro Dr. 205M San Antonio, TX 78217 Direct:(210) 214-2685|Cell:(210) 2142685 MYSANANTONIOTXHOME@YAHOO.COM Legendary Realty satxsold.com Other Certifications: CNE Languages Spoken: English,French,Spanish List office: Legendary Realty (210) 214-2685 All measurements and figures are approximate. Source of information is deemed reliable, but not verified.

MUSIC

THE NUTCRACKER

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Live music performed by the San Antonio Symphony Noam Aviel, conductor. An original commission and world premiere Choreographed by Easton and Haley Smith. “The Nutcracker has always been one of our favorite ballets, as well as our favorite time of year, and we’re excited for the chance to draw on our years of experience working with world class choreographers and directors to really bring the story to life on the talented dancers of Ballet San Antonio.

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Our experience in musical theater and working with Broadway’s greatest creative minds, has also instilled in us what it takes to put on a good show. Our goal is to tell this familiar story in a way that draws children of all ages into the magical tale, while delivering exceptional dancing and a high level of artistry. Whether you’re a dance enthusiast or it’s your first time bringing your family to the ballet, we know that our fresh take on this classic tradition will envelop your whole family in the warmth of the holiday season." Easton and Haley Smith, Choreographers.

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LANA MANN Singer & Songwriter of the Month

Lana Mann was born in Russia and grew up along the Black Sea. Lana’s mother, a talented singer in her own right, remembers Lana started to sing when she was just two years old and later wrote her first song at the tender age of seven. Lana performed in Russia and in Ukraine before she moved to the United States with her family in 2002. Among many of the challenges that Lana had to face after moving to the United States was learning the English language. The cultural differences between the two countries were also an exciting opportunity to expand on her knowledge of the world. Later, this helped Lana to connect with listeners from both cultures. The difficulties of these first few years in her new home gave Lana the wings and courage she needed to later begin working on building her professional singing career in the United States. A gifted singer and songwriter with an angelic and powerful voice, Lana gets her inspiration from the world around her. Her deeply emotional and philosophical songs inspire the listener to introspective thought. With her music, Lana hopes to inspire her listeners to new heights of emotional awareness and beauty. Her num102one goal is to bring happiness with her music. Lana’s appearances include the White ber Bridal Masquerade Ball of San Antonio, the Russian Ball at the Chateau Crystale Hall in Houston, and other award winning events, to name a few.

Lana loves to travel and experience the various cultures of the world. When not performing, Lana enjoys swimming, especially at the beach. Growing up on the beautiful shores of the Black Sea, the water holds a special place in her heart. Currently, Lana is working on her second album. Her debut album titled “As Long as Life” is currently available. Get in touch with Lana on Facebook or check out her website to learn more and access her music at www.lanamann.com

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Paul Huang

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Music Spotlight SA MONTHLY MAGAZINE

Recipient of the prestigious 2015 Avery Fisher Career Grant and the 2017 Lincoln Center Award for emerging Artists, The Washington Post says "Taiwanese American violinist Paul Huang made an impressive debut, sailing through a substantial and varied program, and eliciting several standing ovations.

Sparkling clean, airy tone, and pinpoint intonation, Huang is definitely an artist with the goods for a significant career." Paul Huang will bring his “sparkling clean” repertoire for the first time ever to San Antonio at 2 p.m., February 26, 2019 as the third concert of the Tuesday Musical Club’s 2018-2019 Artist Series. Sponsored in part by the Mattie Jennie Trust, he will perform with Helen Huang, pianist, at Laurel Heights United Methodist Church, 227 W. Woodlawn Avenue, with free parking.107 Other honors won by Paul include First Prize at the 2009 International Violin Competition Sion-Valais in Switzerland, the 2009 Chi-Mei Cultural Foundation Arts Award for Taiwan’s Most Promising Young Artists, the 2013 Salon de Virtuosi Career Grant, and the 2014 Classical Recording Foundation Young Artist Award. He recently debuted at Wigmore Hall, Seoul Arts Center, and the Louvre in Paris, with critically acclaimed recital debuts in New York and in Washington, D.C. at the Kennedy Center. Other concerts in the 2018-2019 Artist Series season are pianist Sung Chang on November 27 and baritone Troy Cook on March 26, 2019.

Students are free with ID. Season or single tickets can be purchased on the TMC website or at the door. Visit www.satmc.org or call 210-2791118. Season or single tickets can be purchased on the TMC website or at the door. Visit www.satmc.org or call 210-279-1118.

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"Taiwanese American Violinist Paul Huang made an impressive debut, sailing through a substantial and varied program, and eliciting several standing ovations."

- The Washington Post

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100 Auditorium Cir, San Antonio,

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VIP Contact: KJaysHouseParty@gmail.com

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FOOD N WINE

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Chef of the Month

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s Corporate Food & Beverage Support Manager for Boerne-based Phoenix Hospitality Group, Rachael“ develops

and executes Food & Beverage Concepts” meaning she has to be “Chef of all Trades.” What made her choose F&B? “I knew at a young age I didn't want to be stuck at a desk; I like to create and always loved food. I earned a Bachelor’s in Culinary Arts & Dietary Nutrition, then a Master’s in Global Business Leadership from Johnson & Wales University, while receiving accreditations from global chef academies in Singapore and Thailand--all before I was 22. I knew it was the beginning of something very exciting. I’ve held positions from line cook to executive chef, from private clubs to luxury hotels. Now— with PHG—every day brings new hurdles, new menus, new tastes and new trends.The industry is constantly changing; with every new request, you get to reinvent yourself. It is amazing to see your guests enjoy or hear them talk with friends about your food, it reinvigorates you.” And her days are full of new challenges since PHG currently owns/manages many properties that need her skills: DoubleTree San Antonio Downtown Hotel, Hilton Garden Inn and Conference Center-

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Live Oak, Hotel Indigo Riverwalk San Antonio, Embassy Suites San

Antonio Brooks Hotel, Spa and Conference Center; DoubleTree Suites Hotel McAllen and The Bevy Hotel Boerne, a DoubleTree by Hilton” (opening 2019). Her advice for someone considering a life as a chef?

“The long hours are hard the knives are sharp and burns happen. If this is truly something you have a passion for, it is worth it. Every chef has their own path and they all lead to different experiences, so keep learning, eating and experiencing everything our industry has to give, and it will never get old.” Rachael is living proof of that!

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Hot Chicken Paprikash & Brown Butter Spaetzle

Serves 4-6 Hot Chicken Paprikash SA MONTHLY MAGAZINE

INGREDIENTS • 6 ea. Chicken thighs Bone-Out Skin-on • 1 T Blended Oil • 3 T Salted butter • 1 ea. Yellow onion, peeled and diced • 3 ea. Garlic cloves, peeled and minced • 3 T Hungarian Hot paprika • 1 c Crushed tomatoes or 1 large ripe tomato, chopped • 1 c Chicken stock • ¾ c Sour cream • TT Kosher salt, Ground black pepper

DIRECTIONS 1.122 Heat oven to 400. Season the chicken aggressively with salt and pepper. Heat the oil and 1 tablespoon of the butter in a large, heavy, oven-safe sauté pan set over high flame, until the butter is foaming. Sear the chicken in batches, skin-side down, until it is golden and crisp, approximately 5-7 minutes. Then turn the chicken over, and repeat on the other side, approximately 3-5 minutes. Remove chicken to rest.

2. Pour off all but a tablespoon or 2 of excess fat. Return the pan to the stove, over medium heat, and add the onion. Cook, stirring frequently with a spoon to scrape off any browned bits of chicken skin, until the onion has softened and gone translucent, approximately 5 minutes. Add the garlic, and stir again, cooking it until it has softened, approximately 3 to 4 minutes. Add the paprika and stir well to combine, then cook until the paprika becomes fragrant, approximately 3-5 minutes.

3. Add tomatoes and broth, whisk until smooth and then nestle the chicken back in the pan, skin-side up. Place the pan in the oven, and cook until the chicken has reached 165 F and the sauce has reduced slightly, approximately 20-25 minutes.

4. Remove the chicken pan from the oven, finish with the sour cream.

Brown Butter Spaetzle

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INGREDIENTS • 1 c All-purpose flour • 1 t Salt • ½ t Ground pepper • ½ t Ground nutmeg • 2 ea. Large eggs • ¼ c Milk • 3 T Salted butter • 1 ea. Shallot Sliced • 2 ea. Garlic Cloves, smashed • 1 ea. Sprig Thyme

DIRECTIONS 1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. In another mixing 123 bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the egg-milk mixture. Gradually draw in the flour from the sides and combine well; the dough should be smooth and thick. Let the dough rest for 10-15 minutes.

2. Bring 3 quarts of salted water to a boil in a large pot, then reduce to a simmer. To form the spaetzle, hold a large holed colander or slotted spoon over the simmering water and push the dough through the holes with a spatula or spoon. Do this in batches so you don't overcrowd the pot. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes or until the spaetzle floats to the surface, stirring gently to prevent sticking. Dump the spaetzle into a colander and give it a quick rinse with cool water.

3. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium high heat with shallot, garlic & thyme. Let butter bubble and turn light brown (just past blond), remove shallot, garlic & thyme and add the spaetzle; tossing to coat. Cook the spaetzle for 2-3 minutes to give the noodles some color, and then sprinkle with the chopped chives and season with salt and pepper before serving. Serve Spaetzle on a plate spoon some of the Paprikash Sauce over and top with a Chicken Thigh Crisp Skin up, garnish with Chopped Flat Leaf Parsley.

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The St. Anthony Hotel has

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launched a fun and informative Handcrafted Cocktail Experience just in time for the Holidays.

Each Saturday, from 4-5 p.m., The historic St. Anthony Club's award wining bartender, Philip, will teach guests the art of making specialty cocktails featuring The St. Anthony Club's most popular cocktails.

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The Cocktail Experience includes tastes of the 4 cocktails SA MONTHLY MAGAZINE

and instruction on how to prepare each drink. All guests receive special recipe cards so they can recreate the cocktails at home and wow their guests, before, during or after the holidays.

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Limit 10 guests at the bar for a fun, intimate experience.

The cost is $25 per person and reservations are required.

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Reservations can be made via The St. Anthony Hotel's Facebook "events" page (@ TheStAnthonyHotel) or by calling the hotel at 210.227.4392.

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Fitness Spotlight A SA MONTHLY MAGAZINE

t MIXXEDFIT, we believe workouts should be fun, easy and effective for everyone! This people inspired fitness program is designed to combine explosive dance movement and boot camp toning across many genres of music. We strive to keep our classes fun, engaging, and heart pumping, without hard and complicated dance steps. Josh Williams is San Antonio 1st MixxedFit 133 instructor. MixxedFit® is a people-inspired dance fitness program that is a mix of explosive dancing and boot camp toning. Everything about our dance fitness program can be described as explosive all of our movements are always big, exaggerated, full-out, and our very best. It will have you moving & sweating to today’s hits and yesterday’s favorites.

Our Mission is to share the love in the dance fitness industry and have a reputation built on putting the people first. We strive to bring the people together through our compassion and style of dance fitness while making exercise fun, easy and effective!

Learn More: ilovemixxedfit.com

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Photos by Lafaiete Photography

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JASON ECHOLS On Life And As A Trainer For A-List Clients Photos by Lafaiete Photography

J

ason Echols remembers all he ever wanted to be was a rockstar. After his mother taught him his first 3 chords, he started to work with bands in the garage, then eventually all the way up to the point to where he had a regularly gigging/recording band then to a record label deal.

After growing up a chubby kid and being bullied in school, he developed a passion for martial arts and weightlifting. Jason was able to find people to help him begin an education in these types of training, aside from time spent working on music.

Over the years, he eventually lost the rockstar dream due to the stereo typical expectations of a rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle. Being on rock-bottom, Jason was left to look at his life through a different lens. During deep spiritual and emotional transformations, he was forced to look at what he had left to work with.

Realizing martial arts and fitness training were something he had invested large amounts of time in, he got to work. Having no money or resources, he ventured out on hope and a prayer.

Starting a business from scratch, Jason would see a rise in clientele and then a fall.

A rise again, and falling again. Feeling like a failure at the only thing he had left, completely broken and ready to give up on life, Jason begged God for help.

He then began to grind seven days a week, treating work like a fight that he was absolutely not going to quit. Before he knew it, business was no longer falling, but rising steady.

He then gained more skills and experience, to become a renowned trainer in his field.

Jason Echols is now known as a master level martial arts instructor, fitness trainer and founder of Echols Fitness.

With 20 years of exposure to different fitness training variations and obtaining black belts in 4 different types of martial arts, Jason developed a very unique style that has shown great success in his clientele from business professionals and home makers, to professional athletes and Hollywood actors.

Jason is most known and publicly noted for his work with 5 time NBA champion, Tim Duncan and also NBA legend David Robinson.

Introducing Tim to Jason's martial arts-based All Sports Dynamic Movement System, it allowed Tim to cross train on a completely new level for the last 8 years of Tim's career.

Jason also received publicity for his work with academy award nominee Jackie Earle Haley.

Training Jackie for the movie Watchmen, Jackie reached an incredible level of fitness for his leading role performance. Jason also worked with Jackie for his role in the remake of the movie RoboCop , and the TV show Human Target.

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Jason continues his martial arts education with Henri Hooft, legendary kickboxing champion and coach to an incredible stable of champion UFC, Glory and bellator mma fighters.

Jason resides at his home in San Antonio with his wife Tracy, a master level massage therapist and his dog Foster that looks like a Fox .

He also has a 22 year old son Austin, who is a collage student seeking interests in international business.

Jason acknowledges his success due to his Love for God, his family , his friends and training discipline.

He loves having as much fun as possible, as often as possible.

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www.echolsfitness.com

'

Feeling like a failure Jason began to grind seven days a week, treating work like a fight that he was absolutely not going to quit.

Before he knew it, business was no longer falling, but rising steady.'

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NAANI SPORT WWW.NAANISPORT.COM A new San Antonio based athletic apparel company.

"Naani means: Beautiful, Splendor. I settled on the name after narrowing our purpose and desire to create a clothing brand designed to represent our purpose of balancing our appreciation for nature and active lives within it." - Caleb Sharbono

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aani Sport is a new San Antonio based athletic apparel company.

For the adventurers, travelers and hikers out there, let’s start with a question: Where were you when you first realized just how beautiful and amazing nature is? Ok, maybe a couple questions to pull the memory forward! …Was it a Mountain? Was it the crashing of waves against a sandy shore? Was it here in Texas with a multi-colored sky during a sunset?

For one San Antonio resident, it was where he’d grown up in Montana. For Caleb Sharbono, founder of Naani (nahnee) Sport, it started on a small ranch in the Flathead Valley in between the Rocky Mountains and with each new place he’s traveled to over the years has continued to grow.

“There are so many amazing places to see. We’re so lucky!” Caleb says. Recently, while pursuing his MBA at UTSA Caleb started combining his passion for travel, backpacking and alpine climbing with his professional and community interests and the result was a brand and athletic apparel line dedicated to quality and function, responsible sourcing of materials and where he believes there is a real opportunity to connect people to nature: conservation!

In Caleb’s own words, “What I’d like to

begin to grow now that the clothing has been sourced, designed and the site has finally been launched (www.naanisport. com) ... is a brand that provides high quality athletic clothing for the outdoor enthusiast. And the vision once I start figuring out how to find those people is to build towards conservation of our parks, first local and then expanding from there.”

Caleb says that what he envisions for Naani Sport is for people to be hiking, jogging or simply active in the very park a purchase of Naani apparel has helped to support. What Caleb has done to make progress towards this vision is set up the for-profit LLC to produce the clothing and he recently established a second incorporation that he will file for non-profit status for. “I’m figuring this out as I go. I was in the Navy for 10 years, both enlisted and then after the academy as a ship’s officer and then a bit of time in the sand playing with the Army. I believe fitness is so important for our overall health, both physical and mental. I think spending time outside is too. And how many times have you worn something like a cheap cotton t-shirt outside while on a little jog and it’s done after maybe two or three times through the wash. I’ve learned a lot about the materials used, treatments, blends.. so much. The materials our women’s racerbacks and men’s shirts are made from is some of the best stuff out there.”

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www.naanisport.com

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BOOM! SA Monthly and Sherri Fitness partnered to do a six-week fitness challenge. I wanted to do this challenge for many reasons. One being, I feel exercise helps to boost confidence in all aspect of your life. In addition, it improves appearance and overall health.

Nine ladies were up for the challenge. These were the five rules of engagement: 1) Follow Sherri Fitness personalized menu; 2) Train three to four days per week; 3)Push yourself beyond your limits; 4) Lose weight and inches; and 5) Listen to your trainer. Five ladies put in the work and made the cut to be featured in SA Monthly Magazine. When combined, they lost a total of 47 pounds and 128 inches total body…in a short six weeks! Like I always say, “Hard work pays off!”. My girls are ecstatic given there awesome results but will tell you it was not easy. As captured with rule #3, each of them pushed themselves beyond their limits. Of course it helped that each day they stepped into Sherri Fitness, I held them accountable for their food choices and didn’t allow for any training excuses.

I am an extremely proud fitness trainer as watching their progress from week to week was amazing. There is still work to do. I will continue to be their trainer and guide towards reaching their individual fitness goals. I’m looking forward to the next challenge…stayed tuned. Boom!

Sherri Braxton is SA Monthly Magazine Fitness Editor

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Makeup: Niki Lehnerz & Nakeia Tapley Hair Stylist: Melissa James Photos by: Lafaiete Photography

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Sherri Fitness Six Week Challenge progress & before photos:

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Connie 10 pounds 37 inches Aisha 10 pounds 20 inches Liza 15 pounds 38 inches

Lucy 9 pounds 37 inches Rose 12 pounds 12 inches

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Connie

Aisha

Liza

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Lucy

Rose

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No Excuses Mind, Body & Soul Make working out a priority!

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Boom!! I’m going to just get right to the point. As a fitness trainer, I have heard every excuse why a person chooses not to work out.

Here are the top five!

1) Too busy 2) I’ll start next week 3) It looks hard 4) I can’t stick to a meal plan 5) It’s that time of the month 148 All of the excuses listed above are just that, excuses! Now let me give you my Top Five reasons why you should work out.

1) Builds lean muscle 2) Improves endurance and breathing 3) Supports immune function 4) Keeps bone strong 5) Improves overall physical and mental state I can go on with this list of reasons why you should work out but will leave it at that for now. The point is you must take the necessary steps to take care of yourself. Those steps could be taken in your living room, outside in a field, or gym like Sherri Fitness. The most important thing is getting on a consistant workout routine that is going to fit your lifestyle and give you the best results.

Now let’s stop coming up with reasons why you can’t and say I will. No more excuses. Let’s do the work!!

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Rachel Valdez McCabe SA MONTHLY MAGAZINE

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ccupational Therapist, single mother, Figure competitor Rachel Valdez McCabe an Inspiration, a single mother, an Occupational Therapist, one who is out in the field helping rehab patients, helping them get back to their normal daily activities after being hospitalized, diseased, injured etc. A Christian woman, a single parent raising an amazing son, doing her best to set a good example of a disciplined lifestyle devoting her time to make sure his needs are being met. Not only is Rachel a beautiful woman and a beautiful soul, but a rare breed of a women, one of the most caring, loving, compassionate & passionate women who is out in the field helping others. Quiet and meek, but don’t let her meekness fool you for weakness.

Being meek is strength under control.

She is one of the strongest women I know. Rachel has always enjoyed training for different events, such as 5k, 10k, marathons, duathlons and 150 triathlons. She’s always enjoyed working out with weights and never thought she would take it to the level of competing in a Figure contest.

She had the opportunity to attend a Bodybuilding, Figure, Bikini, and Physique Show in Dallas, Texas to support her nephew at his first Physique Show. This experience sparked a fire within her which led her to take her first step toward her goal in competing in her first Figure Show. In 2016 as she was to turn 45 years old, she decided she was ready to give herself a life changing gift, which led her to ask me for guidance in preparing for her first two competitions. What an honor and a privilege it was when she hired me to take her under my wing and coach her, guiding her with a nutrition plan along with helping her get through her grueling workouts. We were able to prepare and transform Rachel within 9 weeks for her first competition “The MAVS (make a vet sweat) Charity Classic” on August 6, 2016 winning 1st place in Masters Figure Class and 2nd place in Novice Figure Class.

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Dr. H. Nagori

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( B.D.S, MPA, C.A.G.S (Orthodontics) , ABO ) Email: nagori.hidayat@gmail.com Ph: 216-835-1165

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Come in for proper dental care!

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ART

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Eduardo Rodriguez Calzado

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E

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duardo Rodriguez Calzado, is a visual artist of Mexican origin who, with his brilliant ability and the creative energy of his brushstrokes, inevitably transforms us into a pictorial world of fascinating chromatic vibrations. In it, it seems each of the small units of squares and contours that make up the composition were a representation of hundreds of pixels of a circuit that together emit multiple melodies, interlaced by an artistic force in each canvas, that delight us through the powerful movement of lines and effervescent colors, stimulating our imagination and shaking our conscience. In each work, Rodriguez Calzado leads us through a visual whirlwind creating a variety of planes, at first through two-dimensional figures that when overlapped give life to a surprising third dimension. The harmonious movement of these planes and fragmentation of color create complex forms and perspectives, swaying to the rhythm of the melodies, inviting us to explore the magic of

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the paintings. My introduction to the art world was at an early age, I have always been involved in the arts either drawing or painting but have also gone into many other forms of artistic expression through my life. But it was mostly my art teachers who introduced me to this wonderful world when I was very young.I started painting at a very early age.

It was my mom who took the advice of my kindergarten teacher and enrolled me in art classes. Ever since then Eduardo have dabbled in the arts particularly after college where I worked on a variety of artistic endeavours from puppet building to cartoons, graphic design, costume design, digital painting, theater backdrops and scenery. It was in 2010 that I decided to venture into the art world through my paintings and had my first exhibition in my home town of Torreon.I just gravitate towards painting, it is the easiest form to express myself, sometimes even better than words.

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am a very visual person so I am always looking towards exciting imagery, movement, composition and color, and so I am always thinking of shoes and composition I would like to bring to life through my art. I really don't remember the first painting I did, I was young probably around 6 or 7. I do remember the process I had to follow once I started art classes. In the beginning the teacher would put an object in front of us in order to draw it on paper using charcoal. From there you would advance to using watercolors recreating photographs or other paintings and then after a few months you moved to oil paintings.

So this is where I most likely did my first oil painting and was probably based on a picture of another painting. For most of my young adult life I would paint mostly in the service of other people, particularly to things related to theater such as backdrops and scenery. Once I decided to become a fine art painter I did so to be able to paint something of my own,

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something that I was inspired to put on canvas. Of course at first I had no idea where to start, so when I began I just started with color and shapes and from that came the image of a Phoenix rising from the sea. That became what now I consider my first painting , which I still have in my house. I guess I was representing myself coming from a low point in my life, were I wasn't happy with the direction my life was taking and took a chance to change it all and making the choice of starting something different, a new and better life for myself and the people around me. My inspiration is just something that I have to put out into the world, I often find myself doodling in my sketchbook. A lot of what I paint are images that come into my head. At first there were images and stories that I had lived through or seen that I wanted to capture on canvas, but I have since evolved to more abstract imagery to try and capture feelings and emotions but still relating to the human experience.

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hen asked which has been the painting that has left the biggest mark within you? Eduardo answered "I don't think there is just one, all of them have a particular story behind them and I associate the time I painted each one with a moment in my own life. So in other words they become little time capsules for me, helping me remember what I was going through at the time I was working on each particular painting."My paintings are full of details and even when I think I am done I can almost hear the painting saying: “oh you need more detail here, just another brush stroke there�. That of course is on the technical side, as for what they say to me as an artist: You are doing good, keep going, there is beauty in this world and you are putting beauty and light out into the world. My paintings are influenced by Impressionism and abstract art. I have also had my paintings associated with spiritual and psychedelic art.

I want to transmit a feeling, a whole inner dialogue and thought process inside the viewer. For my paintings to have that effect on each individual and inspire an inner awakening. I'm influenced by the works of the Impressionists, Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, Vincent Van Gogh, George Seurat, Gustav Klimt. Mexican artists like Frida Kahlo, David Alfaro Siqueiros, Diego Rivera.

As for living artists I admire people in different artistic professions than my own and I’m in awe of what they can do so they inspire me, composers , performers, singers, dancers ,choreographers, too many for me to name. Some of the challenges I've faced have been overcoming self doubt and being to hypercritical of myself and my work. Being able to sustain myself as an independent artist. Also having a balanced life, sometimes it just becomes all work and I have to step back and go out and live a little in order to get new inspirations and then go back to painting. I am always working on new paintings, I will be having an upcoming exhibition in my hometown of Torreon and later in the year an exhibition in Spain and another in San Antonio at Art Legacy Gallery. When I was younger I always dreamed of working at the Walt Disney Studios as a character animator or background artist for animated feature films. I really appreciate everyone in the art community and those who supports the arts in San Antonio. A big thank you to Adriana Cisneros for all her wonderful work promoting the arts.

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n this installation, the elaborate paper garments are metaphors for the timeless continuity and recycling of life and death. The installation highlights the beauty of these hand-made, cottage industry creations displayed in a symbolic setting. As a visitor, you are invited to become part of the cycle of life and death, symbolized by the floating garments. Ring the gong to add the element of beautiful sound, and its connotations of meditation and celebration, to the room flanked by Buddha figures. The aroma of incense and fresh flowers, as well as serving of hot tea, complete the immersion and engagement of all your senses. Cut paper has been used across the ages by many people for many purposes, the artist said. Examples range from decorations as solace for mourners, to love tokens suggesting the refinement and devotion of the sender.

“My work in paper evolved from a love of drawing and an awe of the traditional Mexican and Chinese art of paper cutting,” Trenchard said, adding that the scale of her work varies from one to two-inch paper cuts, to 18-foot high vinyl window panels. “My drawings now serve as templates which are destroyed in the process of producing cut work. I am exploring the translation of cut paper into more permanent materials such as metal, suede and multi-colored stencils.”

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TRAVEL

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Solo Travelers, listen up!

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he travel industry is finally catching on, and many ocean and river cruises are now offering “singles” rates on select voyages or dedicated single cabins (eliminating the dreaded single supplement fee which could easily double the cost of a cruise for a single cruiser looking to sail in a room priced for two). I have booked lots of single cruises for men and women through my agency (Cruise & Tour Center); here are the lines I can recommend that cater to single travelers: Norwegian Cruise Line was the first line to offer “studio” cabins for singles and still leads in inventory.

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ll NCL ships built since 2010 offer studio cabins, plus a solos-only lounge.

Its Norwegian Epic ship offers an impressive 128 studio cabins beds.Royal Caribbean Line’s Ovation of the Seas offers cabins, some with balconies or "virtual" balconies, and singles tables during dinner. AdventureSeekers: Lindblad Expeditions’ sailings offer up-close experiences in the planet’s wild, remote places and capitals, in National Geographic luxury cruise ships. Their cruises aren’t cheap, but you visit exceptional places in the company of world-renowned scientists, naturalists, and researchers, using state-of-the-art exploration tools. They do not offer single cabins but will find you a roommate of the same gender. Website states: “This allows you to pay the per person double-occupancy whether or not we find a roommate to share with you.

with extra-wide 28 studio

rate

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his is subject to availability and limited to certain ships and categories.� These river cruise lines offer single occupancy rooms: American Cruise Lines, American Queen Steamboat Company and AmaWaterways—available on all cruises in Europe, Africa and Asia. Top lines such as Uniworld, Tauck, Emerald and Avalon occasionally waive single supplements on double-occupancy cabins. There are other tricks to consider (singles like shorter cruises and itineraries with lively ports).

Email: travel@YourVacationHQ.com Phone: 210-392-9047 Jeanne Albrecht, Owner/Travel Agent, Cruise & Tour Center

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hooping cranes arrive

in Rockport-Fulton after 2,600 mile flight. The Endangered Whooping Cranes Arrive at Their Winter Habitat After 2,600 Mile Flight. RockportFulton – The endangered Whooping Cranes have arrived, marking the end of their annual 2,600-mile journey to the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge. The 500 plus birds making up the Wood Buffalo Flock spend the spring and summer in and around Wood Buffalo National Park on the Alberta/ Northwest Territories border in Canada. A single whooper was reported early Sunday with a flock of Sandhill Cranes. Diane Johnson, owner of Crane House, a short-term rental property located beside St. Charles Bay just north of Rockport reported four 182 sub-adult cranes on deer feeders in their yard this morning. Captain Tommy Moore, who operates the Skimmer out of Fulton Harbor, has been providing boat tours into the refuge since 2003 to see the rare birds. “We should have a great season for viewing the whoopers this year with plenty for them to eat in their favorite habitat,” he said. “We start anticipating the cranes’ arrival towards the end of October,” Moore added. “We typically have a few birds in the first week of November. These birds rely on strong pacific fronts to aid them in migration. The fronts of recent weeks have really helped the birds along this year.” While these birds have met a lot of adversity in past years with drought conditions affecting their prime source of nourishment, the blue crab, abundant rains in Texas over the past two years have reestablished this important part of their diet.

Boat tours into the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge are the best way to see these rare birds up close in their natural habitat from November through April. For information about boat tours, call the Rockport-Fulton Chamber of Commerce at (361) 729-6445 or email tourism@1rockport.org.

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BE THE SOLUTION CHANGE THE WORLD, ONE CHILD AT A TIME!

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Visit: https://www.childfund.org/

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Your financial goals are important.

Let us help you get there.

Chad Mitchell was recently named one of the top wealth advisors in the nation by Forbes Magazine.* He serves clients in the greater San Antonio area, and he can help you navigate your financial journey.

190 CHAD MITCHELL Senior Vice President - Investments 9311 San Pedro, Suite 1200 San Antonio , Tx 78216 210-377-7760 | 800-531-5517 Fax: 210-377-7745 chad.mitchell@wellsfargoadvisors.com

*The Forbes America’s Top Wealth Advisors ranking algorithm is based on industry experience, interview, compliance records, assets under management, revenue and other criteria by Shook Research, LLC, which does not receive compensation from the advisors or their firms in exchange for placement on ranking. Investment performance is not a criterion.

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